Large dark bee-eater with elongated central tail feathers. The head is black, the back green, and the underparts chestnut. There is also chestnut along the sides of the tail that may be conspicuous in slow, swooping flight. Generally uncommon and local in forest edge habitat, in swamp forest, around rivers and streams, and in adjacent savanna. Usually alone or in pairs, rarely in flocks. Not very vocal, but does give quiet “preek” calls and soft trills.