The underparts are tawny, the back and head are dull brownish-olive, and the tail and wings are contrastingly black (the latter with a white speculum that is difficult to see when perched, but conspicuous in flight).
The plumage of this species features a notable contrast between its warm, tawny underside and its cooler, brownish-olive upperparts. The black tail and wings provide a striking visual effect, particularly when the bird is in flight.