It is mainly a permanent resident throughout its range, but some northern populations migrate further south in winter.

This crake nests in a dry location on the ground in marsh vegetation, laying 6-9 eggs.

Coloring includes a pale brown back and chestnut head and underparts, with white barring on the flanks and undertail.

They forage for shoots, berries and insects, as well as large snails, which they eat by using their bills to peck through the hard shell.

Ruddy-breasted crakes are territorial, but are quite secretive, hiding amongst grassy shrubs and bushes when disturbed.