Small bird with thin pointed bill, uncommon in mulga woodland of arid inland temperate Australia. Brownish gray above, cream-colored below, with dark eye, dark streaking on forecrown, pale lores, pale-tipped dark tail, and chestnut rump, often visible in flight. Usually seen in pairs or singly, foraging low in branches rather than on the ground. Distinguished from juvenile Chestnut-rumped Thornbill (which also has dark eyes) by noting the dark streaks on Slaty-backed’s forehead. Typical calls are thin chatter and a clear, reeling trill.