An odd-looking, bulky relative of the snipes that is quite widespread yet seldom observed, being most active at dawn and dusk. It prefers damp, leaf-littered ground in woodland, venturing out at night to feed in wet pastures. When disturbed, it bursts away rapidly and usually without a sound from close quarters, somewhat like a small grouse. Its stout body and long bill are noticeable, and the plumage is less boldly striped than that of the slimmer true snipes. On spring evenings, males patrol their territories in flight and may be seen silhouetted against the sky, giving a strange, distinctive call.