The common and widespread Hylaeornis are ground-nesting birds, making their nests in the deep shadows between the roots of giant trees. Flightless, their agility and speed through the jungle is their greatest defense against predators like Dinocanisaurus, Scimitodon, Foetodon, Stickalithus and (if it is near the edge of a swamp) Piranhadon, though they can deliver a kick that wise predators know to be wary of when cornered.