Small, dark member of the waxbill family. The back is red, the wings and tail black, and the underparts dull olive. Males and females are similar, though males show a red patch on the face and females a pale yellow one. Found in middle-elevation montane forest, mainly in thick and wet areas, such as along streams, and including forest edge and glades. Inconspicuous bird that is usually found in pairs or small groups. The call is a high-pitched “tsit.” Similar in size and overall coloration to Abyssinian Crimsonwing, but paler, and shows red or yellow on the face.