Distinguished from White-backed and Red-faced Mousebird by its drabber brown coloration, black facial patch, and black-and-white bill. The flight action is weaker and floppier than that of the other mousebird species. Often seen in groups, dashing from one bush to the next in 'follow-my-leader' fashion.
Juvenile resembles adult, but lacks black on the face.
Thick, tangled bush and fruiting trees; common in urban and suburban parks and gardens.
A harsh 'zhrrik-zhrrik'.