A compact, broad-tailed warbler with warm brown upperparts, pale greyish underparts, and a thin eyebrow. It can be surprisingly hard to spot as it keeps low in thick cover. During the breeding season it favours dense, tangled growth near water, such as reedy marshes with scattered bushes and scrub. It is far more often heard than seen. Its loud, lively, staccato song usually comes in brief bursts from concealment, with the bird shifting position between phrases rather than singing continuously from one perch. In winter it occupies a variety of habitats with dense vegetation, including drier areas. Typical calls include a sharp “pik!”, a softer “chup,” and a dry, sparrow-like rattle

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