Dark gray-brown uppers are separated from cooler gray below by a band of white along the sides. White feathers are conspicuous under the tail. Eyes are dark brown or red. The neck and legs are fairly long, toes are very long. Juveniles are brown with a greenish-brown bill and shield.
Sexes are alike.
Behavior It pumps its head back and forth while swimming, submerges when diving. It walks with high, jerking steps and a flirting tail. It can climb into bushes or reeds. It flies weakly, with dangling legs. It seeks cover from danger in dense vegetation, and strikes out with feet when fighting.