The only forktail in its range for which the adult has a gray back and crown; pattern is otherwise similar to that of Black-backed Forktail, which it overlaps partially in range. White on the head is restricted to a thick eyebrow that reaches behind the eye--instead of a full crown--giving it a more small-headed appearance than White-crowned and Spotted forktails. Like other forktails, prefers fast-flowing forested streams.