Long-tailed brown bird with a white throat, streaked back, and rusty belly. Inhabits dry vegetation, ranging from scrub to tall grasses to reedbeds. Within its range, size and patterning distinguish it from other long-tailed brown birds, such as prinias. Forages on the ground and low in vegetation, often in small flocks. Wide repertoire; gives long whistles, squeaks, and repetitive bubbly calls.