[2] For many years it was the only member of its genus until genetic work showed that it was related to two species of mousewarblers from New Guinea.

[7] Common names also include cataract-bird, cave-bird, origma, rock-robin, and sandstone robin.

[9] The rockwarbler is 14 cm (5.5 in) in length and weighs around 14 g (0.5 oz), with predominantly dark grey-brown plumage, darker wings and more red-brown underparts, cinnamon-tinged face and forehead, and whitish throat.

Juveniles have duller and paler plumage than the adult, with a reddish tint to the throat, and a greyer chin.

It can be distinguished from the pilotbird by its smaller size and head, white throat patch, and square tail.

They are accomplished mimics, and will replicate the calls of numerous other birds, including scrubwrens, white-eared honeyeaters, grey butcherbirds, eastern spinebills, rufous whistlers and more.

Its preferred habitat is woodland and gullies with exposed sandstone or limestone rocks, and often near water.

[10] The nest is a hanging structure made of grasses, roots, bark and moss, with spider web used as an adhesive.