Distinctive large, dark wheatear with a strong bill. Males are largely all black except for a white tail, rump, and vent. The tail has a black center and terminal band. Females are similar, but browner. Normally encountered foraging on the ground in rocky areas with steep slopes. Shy and typically flies uphill when flushed. Song is a pleasant warble, sometimes with a buzzy or trilled element. Calls include a smooth whistle “eee eee.”