A plump ball on sticks. Quite common and easily heard, but shy and rarely seen in the open. Striking plumage renders this species unmistakable in range: bright rufous head, white throat, and streaked underparts. Sexes alike. Found from subtropical zone up to the temperate zone in the Andes, within forest but also edges, thickets, second growth, and bamboo patches. Slightly less elusive than other antpittas; can sometimes be coaxed into the open by imitating its three-parted whistled song.