Immature birds are dark brown with a black bill and no white tail tips.

[4] This small cuckoo occurs from Panama and Trinidad south through Colombia to Bolivia, Peru and Brazil; in Ecuador, it has been recorded as high up as 1,900 metres (6,200 ft) ASL.

It is generally believed to be an all-year resident, but its irregular occurrence in some areas has led to speculations that it undertakes seasonal short-distance migrations.

[4][5][6] This is a shy species which tends to keep to cover as it forages in low branches for insects and other arthropods.

The female lays two white eggs in a deep cup nest in a tree or bamboo.