It is a resident breeder in tropical Africa from Senegal and north Zaire east to Sudan and west Kenya.

This common passerine is typically found in open woodland and cultivation.

The adults of these stocky 22–23 cm long birds have a metallic purple head and body, and glossy green wings.

The sexes are similar, but juveniles are much duller, with grey underparts and a brown iris.

This is a gregarious and noisy bird, with typical starling squeaks and chattering.