This medium-sized sunbird of the Western Ghats is similar in appearance to Crimson Sunbird, but the two ranges do not overlap. Male is bright red with a gray belly and iridescent blue-green tail and head markings. Female is dull gray overall with a paler belly. Young males are similarly dull, but often have dull red patches, particularly on the breast. Forages actively in small flocks in upper levels of foothill forest and forest edge. Squeaky song and high “seep” calls comparable to Crimson Sunbird.