A noisy, gregarious species of middle to high elevation forests where it often forms mixed-species flocks. Typically roosts communally in palm or bamboo thickets. Its brownish back, blackish crown, bright white throat and thickset bill eliminate all other species within range; also note small white spot at base of primaries present on adults. Song is series of sweet two-parted phrases such as “chu-wit, see-you, chu-you.” The common call is a high thin “tsit” or “chit” given singly or in series.