[2] The slaty-breasted wood rail is 34 to 37 cm (13 to 15 in) long; one male weighed 540 g (19 oz).

Adults have a green bill with a bluish base, a red eye, and reddish- to yellowish brown legs and feet.

[4] The slaty-breasted wood rail is found in southeastern Brazil from southern Minas Gerais and Espírito Santo south and west into eastern Paraguay and northeastern Argentina.

It generally inhabits somewhat wet forest and woodland, often in swampy areas or along streams, but usually avoids open marshes.

The slaty-breasted wood rail's breeding season has not been fully defined but appears to include at least November to February.