A particularly sharply-dressed bulbul. Throughout most of its range, gray overall with bright yellow-green wing panels, round brown ear patches, and a white throat. Birds in southern Indochina are browner overall, with less contrast. Dark bushy crest is often raised, giving the bird a messy-haired appearance. Inhabits a wide range of wooded habitats in foothill, submontane, and montane regions, often foraging in flocks with other bulbul species. Song consists of short, jumbled phrases of metallic warbled notes. Calls are variable, including both harsh chattering and tuneful piping notes.