Genus Monias

Subdesert Mesite - The Subdesert Mesite is a medium sized terrestrial bird which is often described as rail-like . The species has a long and downward-curved bill distinguishing it from the other members of the family. Both sexes are greyish above and show thin white eyebrows. Both have white underparts; the male has black crescent-shaped spots on the side of the neck and upper breast. The female has rufous spots that may merge into a general rufous tone, and has a tawny cheek patch.