Sora

The sora is a small, secretive marsh bird, and it is far more often heard than seen. Its call is a descending whinny that carries over the cattails in the evening, and a clear sign that a marsh is healthy. If you are patient and lucky, you may see one stepping carefully along the edge of the reeds.

It has a short yellow bill, a black mask on the face, and long toes that spread its weight across floating plants. Soras are rails, with bodies that are thin from side to side, which helps them slip through dense vegetation. They arrive in Manitoba in May, nest in a basket of plants hidden in the marsh, and leave in September for the southern United States and beyond.

Seeing a sora out in the open feels like a small gift, since this shy marsh bird has a short yellow bill and a surprisingly big voice.

Curious about the sora and its habitat? Learn more on its page at All About Birds.

Field notes in photographs

Sora Manitoba sightings

Where and when you can find the sora in Manitoba depends on the season and the habitat. You can see more species in the Manitoba birds section.

Back to Manitoba bird photography, or see the portfolio.