Movements and Activity Patterns of the Light-Footed Clapper Rail

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Abstract
We monitored 54 individually color-banded light-footed clapper rails (Rallus longirostris levipes) (9 were harnessed for radio telemetry) to determine movements, home range, and activity patterns. Resightings over 3 years indicated a strong site tenacity. Maximum distances between locations for a given rail were generally < 400 m (.hivin.x = 12-289 m). Minimum home-range sizes varied from 0.36 to 1.66 ha. Territoral rails maintained small home ranges all year. Immature birds moved more than adults. Rails usually covered only small portions (.ltoreq. 30%) of their entire ranges on a daily basis. All of the salt marsh habitat were used by rails. Larger movements were associated often with chases, predator alarms, and high tides. Daily activity peaked in early morning and late evening.

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