Measuring only about the size of a sparrow, the diminutive black rail is the smallest North American rail. Adult black rails are dark gray or nearly black overall with a variable amount of scattered white spotting on the back that may also extend onto the wing coverts and secondaries. The nape and upper back are deep chestnut colored. The dark gray undertail coverts and flanks are streaked with white or light gray. The tail is short and grayish-brown. The bill is short and black and the legs and feet are grayish-brown. Although the sexes are similar in size, they differ slightly in plumage. The throat of the female may be pale gray or white, while that of the male may be pale to medium gray. Juvenile black rails resemble adults but are duller gray overall with less spotting above and thinner streaking on the flanks. Eye color, which changes with age, is red in adults and may range from brown to orange in juveniles. The black rail is an elusive species that typically walks or runs rather than flies. Due to its secretive nature and nocturnal habits, this rail is more often heard than seen. The black rail's call, a repeated kic-kee-doo or kic-kic-kerr, may be given throughout the night but is most frequently voiced during the first few hours after sunset or before sunrise. Rarely, black rails may vocalize during the day. Vocal activity is greatest during the early breeding season, from late April to mid-May. Adults and young may communicate using kik or yip calls.

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