King rails also prefer variations in water depth that are sometimes not available on wetlands managed for waterfowl. Perhaps the greatest threat to king rails in Missouri is loss of habitat. Only when we consider shallow wetlands and marshes as vital parts of the Missouri landscape will we be able to assure that this unique and interesting species will remain among us. Click to Enlarge Young king rails are able to fly after about 60 days. Adults molt soon after, usually in late summer.
King rails leave Missouri during the fall, heading south to warmer wintering areas.
King rails have specific water depth needs for breeding and feeding. In Missouri, the birds primarily feed on crayfish, although they also eat small fish, frogs and insects. Click to Enlarge A king rail will go to great depths for a crayfish. In less than half a century, king rail numbers in the state have declined dramatically. Protecting our permanent marshes and wetlands is essential to ensuring the survival of king rails in Missouri.