The smallest thrasher; crisp black streaking on underparts unlike most other western thrashers. Grayish brown with buffy wash on belly and sides and thin white wingbars. Long tail. Small, slightly downcurved bill. In flight, look for white corners on tail. True to its name, shows a strong affinity for sagebrush. Singing males perch conspicuously, otherwise furtive, running around on the ground in search of insects. Song is a long, loose series of musical chirps and whistles.