Exceedingly plain and short-tailed babbler, found in the broadleaf evergreen forests of Sumatra’s lowlands and foothills. Compare with Horsfield’s, Abbott’s, White-breasted, and Short-tailed Babblers; note large pinkish-colored bill and lack of any warm color on the back or sides. Dull, skulky, and generally uncommon, this undergrowth-dweller can be difficult to get a good look at, and is more readily heard than seen. Forages singly and in pairs, typically on or close to the ground. Song is a variable, cheery up-and-down series of notes; in southern parts of the species’ range, singing birds may add a trill at the end of a song. Call is an explosive, rapid chatter.