Often the only indication of its presence is its distinctive ringing call, consisting of series of three-syllabled whistles.

The males exhibit vivid crimson red legs and bare facial skin and striking black and white dorsal plumage that extends to its head.

The legs of both sexes have multiple metatarsal spurs, which give rise to the specific name.

The female has chestnut underparts and a plain brown back and wings.

It scratches vigorously amongst the leaf litter of the forest floor for invertebrates, especially mollusks and insects.