This flightless rail inhabits tropical, lowland evergreen and lower montane rainforest, especially densely vegetated, forest-edge habitats or thick understoreys of primary forest, from sea-level to 1,300 m (BirdLife International 2001, Eaton et al. 2021). Streams, damp gullies and thick secondary growth (in places dominated by rattans, lianas and bamboo) appear to be important habitat features (BirdLife International 2001, eBird 2025).

Endemic to Sulawesi, Indonesia, where it is known from the lowlands and hills in north, central and south-eastern parts of the island (BirdLife International 2001, eBird 2025). It may however occur across the entire island (Eaton et al. 2021).

Conservation Actions Underway
This species has been protected under Indonesian law since 1972. It is known to occur in some protected areas (e.g. Lore Lindu National Park).

Conservation Actions Proposed
Conduct extensive surveys for this species to establish their current distribution and population status, and assess its habitat requirements and main threats. Identify important areas for these species and promote their designation as protected areas where appropriate.