Western Swamphen
Porphyrio porphyrio (Linnaeus, 1758)
PURSW
4270
Family: Gruiformes > Rallidae
![Western Swamphen, Scott Mayson Western Swamphen, Scott Mayson](https://www.bto.org/sites/default/files/birdfacts/01351_Western%20Swamphen_Scott%20Mayson.jpg)
A striking, large relative of the Moorhen, Western Swamphen breeds in southern Europe. Normally quite sedentary in habits, this is an extremely rare visitor to Britain.
The species was added to the British List on the basis of an individual found at Minsmere, Suffolk on 31 July 2016. It remained there until 5 August, before being relocated in Lincolnshire on 30 August where it remained until 4 January 2017.
Identification
Develop your bird ID skills with our training courses
Our interactive online courses are a great way to develop your bird identification skills, whether you're new to the hobby or a competent birder looking to hone your abilities.
Browse training coursesStatus and Trends
Population size and trends and patterns of distribution based on BTO surveys and atlases with data collected by BTO volunteers.
DISTRIBUTION
This species is a rare vagrant and was recorded during Bird Atlas 2007–11 as shown on the map.
More from the Atlas Mapstore.
SEASONALITY
Western Swamphen is a very rare vagrant and these records relate to one or two well-watched individuals.
Movement
Information about movement and migration based on online bird portals (e.g. BirdTrack), Ringing schemes and tracking studies.
RINGING RECOVERIES
View a summary of recoveries in the Online Ringing Report.
Biology
Lifecycle and body size information about Western Swamphen, including statistics on nesting, eggs and lifespan based on BTO ringing and nest recording data.
PRODUCTIVITY & NESTING
Sample sizes are too small to report Productivity and Nesting statistics for this species.
BIOMETRICS
Sample sizes are too small to report Biometrics for this species.
Feather measurements and photos on featherbase
CODES & CLASSIFICATION
Field Codes ![]() |
5-letter code: PURSW | Euring: 4270 |
For information in another language (where available) click on a linked name
Links to more information from ConservationEvidence.com
Would you like to search for another species?
Share this page