Small stout forest-dweller that hops and buzzes about in the canopy like a large, active insect. Variable over a wide range, but always note male’s iridescent dark blue back, bright red chest, and black line extending down the belly; red most extensive on Sumba population, and smallest on Flores. As with many other flowerpeckers, the female is considerably duller, with a red rump patch being the only patch of bright color on her otherwise gray-brown plumage. Sumba birds are found in wooded habitats throughout the island, but other populations are largely tied to montane and submontane areas. Calls include buzzy katydid-like notes and high-pitched whistles.