The females is similar to the male but has a smaller loral spot and supercilium and has a narrower dark grey breast band.

[3] The song is a series of high, evenly pitched thin short notes "pee-pee-pee-pee" which resembles a squeaky bicycle pump.

[4] The habits of the Gabon batis are similar to those of other batises and it is territorial and usually seen either singly, in pairs or in small family groups.

It is a restless but unobtrusive bird and patrols the whole of its 18-20 ha territory each day, the male taking the lead and singing his song, especially in the morning and late afternoon.

Prey is gleaned from leaves by hovering beside the tree, or in flight or is disturbed by the moving bird and swooped on.