The rufous-sided crake (Laterallus melanophaius) is a species of bird in subfamily Rallinae of family Rallidae, the rails, gallinules, and coots.

Subspecies L. m. oenops is similar to the nominate, but has paler upperparts and is rufous on the forecrown and around the eye.

The species primarily inhabits freshwater marshes and similar landscapes such as flooded pastures and the edges of ponds and oxbow lakes .

[6] The rufous-sided crake usually forages in dense grassy vegetation but also in the open close to cover.

It forages in mud and vegetation for its primary diet of small arthropods; seeds and leaves are also eaten.

Its nest is a globe of leaves lined with leaf shreds, dry grass, and feathers.