Small brownish-gray warbler with a grayer head and broad dark mask that sets off the white throat. Lacks bright rusty wing patch of Greater Whitethroat. Varies subtly across wide range. Found in scrubby habitats, especially dense hedges with thorny bushes and trees. Skulking and difficult to see well; often located by scratchy chortling song that ends with a distinctive loud rattle. Gives dry ticking calls.