Stocky, rather small, quail-like bird of the Andes. Favors open rocky slopes, stony plains, and adjacent bogs. Found in pairs or small groups. Male has hooting song given from low mounds or fence posts and during display flight. Flight is strong and fast; flushes with loud bleating chatters. Similar Least Seedsnipe is smaller, favors sandier and grassier habitats, and often occurs in lowlands. Note plain gray breast of male Gray-breasted unlike the black Y pattern present on Least Seedsnipe.