Plain charcoal-gray to medium gray overall with rusty undertail coverts, relatively long dark tail, black cap, and slender black bill. Sexes are similar. If seen well, this bird is unlikely to be mistaken for another species.

Length: 21 (cm) Wingspan: 28 (cm)

Voice:

Distinctive song is a somewhat robin-like series of phrases that alternates between squeaky notes and throaty warbles delivered in a choppy cadence. Namesake calls harsh, mewing. Occasionally mimics phrases from the songs of other species.

Habitat:

Dense thickets and shrubs, woodland edges, thick riparian growth, suburbs.

Behavior:

Skulks in low vegetation, often difficult to observe. Usually alone or in pairs. Males sometimes sing from exposed perches. Nest is a cup of twigs lined with fine materials, typically at eye level or below.

Feeding:

Forages by gleaning low foliage and on ground; eats a variety of insects, other small prey, and fruit.