African rail
These birds probe with their bill in mud or shallow water, also picking up food by sight. They mainly eat insects, crabs and other small aquatic animals.
Water rail
The nest is made from whatever wetland vegetation is available and built mostly by the male, usually in a single day. It is raised or more above the level of the marsh, and is sometimes constructed on clumps of roots, tree stumps or similar support. It may be built up higher if the marsh waters start to rise. The nest is across and about high. It is well hidden and approached by narrow tracks.