Corncrake vs Spotted Crake

In short

The Corncrake (Crex crex) and Spotted Crake (Porzana porzana) are both secretive rails, but the Corncrake is larger and has a more uniform buff and gray plumage with distinctive chestnut wing patches in flight. The Spotted Crake is smaller, with a more spotted appearance and a shorter bill.

Identification tips

1. Look for size: Corncrake is larger. 2. Check for chestnut wing patches in flight for Corncrake. 3. Note the spotted appearance of Spotted Crake. 4. Listen for the loud 'crex crex' call of Corncrake versus the softer 'whit' of Spotted Crake.

Size

Corncrake is larger, measuring 27–30 cm, while the Spotted Crake is smaller.

Plumage

Corncrake has buff-and-gray-streaked brownish-black upperparts with chestnut wing patches visible in flight, and blue-gray underparts. Spotted Crake has a more spotted appearance with white spots on the upperparts and flanks.

Behaviour

Corncrake prefers to flee on foot with a high-stepping gait, while Spotted Crake is also elusive but not specifically noted for this behavior.

Habitat

Corncrake breeds in meadows and grasslands, often in floodplains, while Spotted Crake prefers marshes and reedbeds.

Voice

Corncrake's call is a loud, grating 'crex crex', while Spotted Crake has a softer, whistling 'whit' call.