It breeds in eastern and southern Africa in wet mountain moorland and swamps at altitudes of 1,700–4,000 m (5,600–13,100 ft).

Its upperparts, head and neck are streaked and patterned with bold dark brown stripes and gold edges to the feathers forming lines down its back.

Breeding is dependent on the rains in the tropics, but mainly April to October in South Africa, although nesting has occurred in all months.

It forages by pushing its long bill deep into the mud seeking insects and worms.

If alarmed, it freezes, and its cryptic plumage provides effective camouflage when the bird stands motionless amongst marsh vegetation.