Striking tanager found in the canopy at forest edges in woodlands, plantations, and gardens. Mostly seen in pairs or small single-species groups. Depending on the light can look dark, but has a dark blue face, with a black patch in front of the bill, and blue flanks with black spots. Blackish on the back, wings, and tail, and either white or pale yellow below depending on the subspecies. The call is a series of fast and high-pitched “psii” notes.