An often inconspicuous resident breeder found nesting and feeding in dense, mature reed beds. Due to its secretive nature, this species is more often heard than seen. It has a loud raucous, often screeching and rambling song. It calls frequently, giving a gruff "krrrr" from dense cover. It is best seen during late winter and spring, at dusk and dawn, when the males will sit at the top of a reed singing, trying to attract a mate and declaring its territory.
