Tiny colorful bird with short stubby bill, bright red patch on rump, and entirely white eyebrow. Note that the very front of the eyebrow is white (compare Striated Pardalote). Upperparts, including crown, primarily black covered in white spots. Plumage has minor variations across range. In some locations has yellow throat and/or rump. Voice is a very clear and repetitive double "ding". Very common in woodlands and eucalypt forest within its range, which covers most of Australia. Makes small nest burrows in soil banks.