Large and long-billed sunbird in which males are colorful, green and red, and females drab brownish. Males have yellow shoulder tufts that are usually hidden. Found in high-elevation heath, Afroalpine habitats, and forest edge along the Albertine Rift. Often feeds on low flowers. The call is a harsh “jyet” and the song a quick jumble of high-pitched notes. Very similar to Northern Double-collared Sunbird, but larger overall, with a longer tail and bill and a broader red band across the underparts.