Darker than the very green Knysna turaco. it differs from that species mainly by its purple crest, which appears black unless it is seen in good light, and by the lack of white around the eyes and on the crest. Like Knysna turaco, it is very furtive and is usually seen only as it leaps from tree to tree, when the red in its wings is conspicuous.
Juvenile resembles adult but is duller.
Coastal and riverine forests and broad-leaved woodland.
A loud 'kok-kok-kok-kok'.