The flufftails (Sarothruridae) have traditionally been included among the rails, but recent studies have found them more closely related to the finfoots. The group's common name is derived from the short tail which has degraded fluffy feathers.

Flufftails are highly secretive and seldom observed. Two species, the Buff-spotted Flufftail and the White-spotted Flufftail, are inhabitants of dense forests, the remaining species are found in deep grasslands and marshes. All species are highly vocal during the breeding season, with repertoires including duets.

The family contain 13 species distributed across sub-Saharan Africa and Madagascar.