Large, flightless rail endemic to New Zealand. Can be very curious, especially when living around people. Extinct over large tracts of the mainland. Variable plumage. Most birds are predominantly light brown with red eyes, a broad pointed bill, and strong legs. Often detected by characteristic “cooeet” calls given at dawn and in early evening. Buff-banded Rail is smaller and more boldly marked, with a rufous eye-stripe and a broad orange breast band.