Medium-sized, gray-brown bird with a weird spiky tail. Dull streaking on the back and underparts. Scarce Madagascar endemic that is found in sedge marshes in and adjacent to eastern rainforest at middle and high elevations. Very skulky, though it will sometimes sit in the open briefly to sing. Song is a bouncy trill, usually given as a duet by a pair. Far less likely to be seen than the common Madagascar Brush-Warbler or Swamp Warbler. In case of any confusion, look for the Gray Emutail’s smaller size, streaky back, and wispy tail.