This reclusive marsh bird is shy but generally not uncommon, often heard rather than seen. Listen for its varied pig-like squeals and grunts from dense vegetation. It prefers fresh marshes and ponds with tall vegetation, especially reeds and rushes, and may be found in tidal marshes during winter or freezing conditions. It is often seen at muddy edges, moving stealthily but quickly, and is about half the size of a moorhen. Key features include a long, mostly red bill (unlike the short, chicken-like bill of crakes) and barred flanks. It is replaced in much of Asia by the Brown-cheeked Rail, which is very similar but has a stronger eye stripe and a darker throat with a grayer breast and belly.