Crex crex is a species of bird commonly known as the corn crake. It belongs to the family Rallidae and is found primarily in Europe, Asia, and North Africa. This secretive, medium-sized bird is known for its distinctive call, which has been described as a repetitive, rasping sound resembling the phrase "crex crex," hence its common name.
The corn crake has a plump and round body, with a brownish coloration that provides excellent camouflage in the tall grasslands and meadows it inhabits. It has a short, straight beak, strong legs, and large feet. They are primarily ground-dwelling birds, rarely taking to the air unless threatened.
Corn crakes are migratory birds, spending summers in Europe and winters in Africa. They breed in dense vegetation, such as cereal fields and meadows, where they construct nests out of grass and other plant materials. Females typically lay a clutch of 6-12 eggs, which are incubated by both parents for about three weeks.
The diet of crex crex mainly consists of insects, worms, and seeds. They are known for their foraging behavior, often running swiftly through the grass while searching for food.
Despite being widespread, the corn crake is considered a vulnerable species due to the loss of suitable habitats caused by intensive agriculture and land management practices. Conservation efforts aim to protect and restore their breeding grounds, as well as implementing measures to prevent accidental mortality during farming operations.
