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Step 1
Look for the Purple Gallinule in its preferred habitat and range. In the summer months, find the Purple Gallinule in the Caribbean, South America, Central America, along the Atlantic coast of the United States from South Carolina southward and along the coast of the Gulf of Mexico. The bird winters in Central America, South America, the Caribbean and Florida. Preferred habitats include near and on bodies of freshwater such as pools, lakes and marshes that have plenty of vegetation.
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Step 2
Estimate the size of the Purple Gallinule. This bird is medium-sized ranging from 14 to 15 inches in length. The wingspan ranges from 21 to 22 inches and weighs between 7 and 10 oz. Males are slightly larger than females.
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Step 3
Observe the Purple Gallinule's colorful appearance. Purple Gallinules have purple or violet colored necks, underparts and heads. They also have a slightly iridescent green back. The bill is predominantly red, with a yellowish tip and a triangular shape. The Purple Gallinule has very long yellow toes, yellow legs and a light blue colored forehead. Their wings and tails are pointed and both males and females have a similar appearance.
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Step 4
Listen to the sounds made by the Purple Gallinule on What Bird website. (See link in Resources.) The call resembles the sounds made by a chicken and contains cackling and clucking noises.
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Step 5
Spot this bird swimming on the surface of the water or walking on floating vegetation. When in flight, the Purple Gallinule displays a slow and awkward flight pattern.
