It is a resident breeder in the forests of central Africa, found in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, West Kenya, Burundi, Rwanda and South Sudan.

The bird is 40 cm (16 in) long; ranging in weight from 199–272 g (7.0–9.6 oz).

Adult similar to green turaco, distinguished by small all-black bill and rounded whitish crest.

Both the male and female defend a territory and share incubation duties.

In areas where its range overlaps with the Rwenzori turaco it will aggressively respond to the calls of that species.