The chestnut rump, back and wings, combined with the unmarked grey head, should prevent confusion with and other sparrow except Northern Grey-headed Sparrow. Female House, Great and Cape Sparrows superficially resemble this species but all have white or buff head markings. The bill is black in breeding season, and dull yellow in winter. Slightly smaller and less robust than Northern Grey-headed Sparrow; more greyish brown on the head and has a smaller bill.
Juvenile is duller than adult.
Mixed woodlands and, in some regions, suburbia.
Various chirping notes.