The nest is placed well hidden in tussocky grass on an open, moist coastal meadow. The female normally lays 4 eggs, and both parents take part in incubation, which lasts about three weeks. The young are nest-leavers that leave the nest shortly after hatching and find food for themselves, but are guarded and led by the parents. Breeding success depends strongly on the vegetation being kept short by grazing and on a favourable water level.