Identification - It is about the size of a robin. Note the long, thin bill that is slightly downcurved, the gray cheeks, the rusty-breast, and the white and black, barred flanks. Sexes are similar in appearance.
Morsels - One of the best ways to see rails is to sit motionless near the edge of a marsh where a small opening in the vegetation occurs. Patience will reward you with a look at one of the most secretive of birds. Often clapping your hands sharply near a marsh in spring and summer will elicit a response from a Virginia Rail.
