Generally considered to be a rather uncommon bird, the Chestnut-headed Crake ranges from southern Colombia south to extreme northwest Bolivia, and to westernmost Brazil. Locally, however, such as in parts of Acre, in southwest Brazil, the species seems to be quite common. The Chestnut-headed Crake is principally deep rufous over the head and body, but becomes dark brown over the back and wings, as well as on the belly and rear flanks. Although usually considered to be a resident of terra firme forest, especially in close proximity to rivers and streams, the species also apparently occurs in tall second growth and damp thickets, and has been recorded to 1500 m in the foothills of the Andes. Virtually nothing has been published to date concerning its life history.