Identification
A bulky, heavyset bird with a murderous-looking hooked bill. Very similar in appearance to Himalayan Cutia, but ranges do not overlap. Male has blue-gray crown and wing patch, midnight-black mask, orange back and rump, and black-barred white underparts. Female of southern population is much duller, with a dark brown head and streaked brown back. (Northern female has not yet been described.) Inhabits both broadleaved and coniferous hill forest. Moves sluggishly, often in mixed flocks. Song is loud and repetitive, consisting of somewhat twangy whistles and more fluid, warbled notes.