Behaviour No evidence has been found to support the suggestion that this is a migratory species (del Hoyo et al. 1996, Taylor and van Perlo 1998). It is a secretive bird, usually found alone or in pairs (Langrand 1990). It mainly breeds during the months of August-October (del Hoyo et al. 1996). Habitat This species inhabits dense aquatic vegetation of marshes, wet woodlands and river margins (Langrand 1990, del Hoyo et al. 1996, Taylor and van Perlo 1998), from sea level to 1,800 m (Langrand 1990) but more frequently at high altitudes (del Hoyo et al. 1996). It prefers areas in which the vegetation is dominated by long grasses, reeds and sedges (del Hoyo et al. 1996). Diet it feeds mainly on invertebrates in muddy substrates (Langrand 1990, del Hoyo et al. 1996, Taylor and van Perlo 1998). Breeding site It nests on the ground in thick aquatic vegetation (Langrand 1990, Morris and Hawkins 1998). The nest is undescribed (Taylor and van Perlo 1998).

Rallus madagascariensis occupies suitable habitat up to 1,800 m in eastern Madagascar where it is generally rare but locally not uncommon (Langrand 1990, Morris and Hawkins 1998, Safford 2013). Its population is estimated to number 2,500-10,000 total individuals.

Conservation Actions Underway
It is found in several protected areas (ZICOMA 1999). No species-specific conservation action is yet in place.

Conservation Actions Proposed
Promote conservation of its habitats through both policy changes and community conservation projects. Better estimate the rate of population decline. Monitor rates of habitat loss and degradation across its range. Better research its ability to utilise rice paddy fields, and the likely impact of their increase on the species. Increase the area of suitable wetland habitat that receives effective protection by improving the management of current protected areas, and creating new protected areas.