Large brown-backed thrush with heavy spotting below and white wingbars. It is a rare and localized endangered species, with most records coming from a few coastal and montane forest sites. Usually on or near the ground. The song is a languid, chatty series of whistles. The call is a quiet, thin, rising whistle. Similar to Groundscraper Thrush, but easily separated by forest habitat, more horizontal posture, and white wingbars.