A slim, curve-billed sunbird in which males and females are very different. Males are mostly black and dark green, with a red band across the underparts and elongated central tail feathers. Females are plain gray-brown above and pale with heavy dark markings below. Found in a wide variety of moist habitats, including wetlands, savanna, scrub, woodland, and gardens. Similar to Beautiful Sunbird, but breeding males are separated by the lack of extensive yellow in their belly band and females by being more streaked below. Female similar to female Marico Sunbird, but note dark throat patch and less distinct pale eyebrow. Song is a typical sunbird high-pitched jumble; also gives chipping calls.