Abstract

We report new records of the Dot-winged Crake (Porzana spiloptera) in southern Chile, an almost unknown species distributed mainly in Argentina and recently discovered in Chile. The occasional capture of a juvenile individual of the species at Cruces river wetland (39° S) and the subsequent analysis of the sound recordings obtained during a research project that explores the acoustic attributes of the soundscapes of urban wetlands, has made it possible to discuss the status of the Pacific populations of the species. The new records show that P. spiloptera has a resident status and suggest that the presence of the species in Chile went historically unnoticed, and it has been confused with Laterallus jamaicensis. Comprehensive surveys and dedicated research that could provide fundamental biological aspects such as the current distribution, population abundance, habitat requirements, and main threats for these secretive rails are urgently needed for their conservation.