A medium-sized bird of lowland and montane forest as well as more open wooded areas. Dark brown above with a pale belly, an orange-brown throat and chest with pale streaking, and a dark head with faint gray streaks. Bill fairly long and black. Similar to Streak-breasted Bulbul, but smaller, with a shorter bill, a grayish crown, and a warmer orange-brown throat and chest. Song consists of short, loud whistled phrases with a slightly metallic quality. Also gives downslurred squeals and chattering.