A typical thrush in shape and size, but with unusually dull coloration. Mostly brown, with darker striping on the throat and breast, and a yellow bill. Females are slightly paler than males. There is a rufous patch at the front of the underwing, which can be conspicuous in flight. Found at middle and high elevations, in a variety of wooded habitats, including thickets, wadis, and cultivated areas, as well as acacia and juniper woodland. The song is a mix of whistles and trilled notes, that averages drier and less musical than typical thrush song. Also makes typical thrush “chk-chk” and thin “tseeep” calls. Similar to female Eurasian Blackbird, but separated by range, paler overall coloration, and yellow bill.