assateague wrote:Ok, thanks Rick. Apparently, most of what I flush are rails then, at least early. Never seen one fly more than about 25 feet, and that appears to be hard work. Would never describe them as jets, and we seem to play leapfrog into and out of the marsh, so thinking they're all rails. Better hold off on the trigger for another few weeks, although they do "screech" a bit when jumped. And to be painfully honest, until they're in hand, I have a very difficult time telling the difference between our Virginia Rails and Snipe. The difference is only 2 weeks, but could be expensive.
You know it's a Sora rail if the trick is to get a shot off before it lands.
Re: Virginias and snipe in the air, besides the rail's lack of speed, they'll often fly with their butts hanging low.
I'm going to have to listen harder for rails hollering on take-off. The kings and clappers can sound sort of like pheasants crowing (only GAK, GAk, Gak, gak, gak in decending volume) on the ground, but I don't associate vocal flushes with any of them.
Am sure the coyote will enjoy researching the issue next time we make a pass afield. 'Cept he's bad for catching them before the flush. Don't hear them holler then, but not sure I would: