The purple gallinule (Porphyrio martinicus) is a "swamp hen" in the rail family, Rallidae. Also known locally as the yellow-legged gallinule. The genus name Porphyrio is the Latin for "swamphen", and martinica is "of Martinique". Juveniles are brown overall with a brownish olive back. These gallinules will fly short distances with dangling legs. The nest is a floating structure in a marsh. Five to ten eggs are laid. Their coloration is buff with brown spots.