In context of the prolonged invasion of smooth cordgrass Spartina alterniflora, numerous native birds have progressively adapted to this invaded plant. Not only certain non-specialist birds demonstrate an ability to inhabit and utilize smooth cordgrass, but a subset of specialist birds is also detected in the habitat as well. In this study, we investigate a previously undocumented Rallidae species, the slaty-breasted rail Lewinia striata, living in smooth cordgrass. These rails exhibit a significant reliance on the invaded vegetative community during their breeding season, engaging in foraging, vocalization, and even successful reproduction within the smooth cordgrass. These findings underscore the likelihood that amidst the ongoing decline of natural wetlands, those avian species with a profound dependence on marsh ecosystems may be compelled to adopt invasive smooth cordgrass as a vital refuge. Such a transition is poised to impact their distribution, foraging, and reproduction. With the backdrop of large-scale removal of smooth cordgrass on the China coast, the disappearance of smooth cordgrass may harm the population of these birds. Further dedicated investigations and tracking of more individuals are needed to understand the specific ecological impact on slaty-breasted rail.

Bird diversity has declined as native birds have avoided using the green desert after the Smooth Cordgrass Spartina alterniflora invaded coastal China. After many years of coexistence, a few passerine birds began to enter and use Smooth Cordgrass, but only birds of nonspecialised habitat. In this study, we first found that a native reed-specific bird, the Parrotbill Calamornis heudei, flocked and sang in a Smooth Cordgrass habitat in the whole overwintering period near Sheyang Port in Yancheng, Jiangsu Province. This phenomenon indicates that native obligate birds may be forced to adapt to exotic Smooth Cordgrass habitats after long-term coexistence; obviously, the distribution, feeding and reproduction of birds would be affected. Is this an ecological trap? Which may lead to unknown ecological consequences. We suggest that more research attention should be given to this process occurring along the Chinese coast.