The underparts are white; the breast is light tawny with faint brownish spots.

[11] This bird has a breezy, downward-spiraling, flute-like song, often given from a low and concealed perch.

[13] The breeding habitat is humid deciduous forest across southern Canada and the northern United States.

Insects are a main food source during the breeding season, while fruit and berries may compose most of the diet during the late summer and fall.

[14] This bird has been displaced in some parts of its range by the related wood thrush (Hylocichla mustelina).

[17] Veeries are occasional hosts for the eggs of brown-headed cowbirds (Molothrus ater).

[18][19] Threats to the veery include nest parasitism by brown-headed cowbirds, climate change, and alteration of Amazonian lowland forests.

[14][20] There have been concerns that the use of invasive/alien plant parts may decrease nesting success, but negative impacts have not been documented.

[16] Other potential threats include the loss of woodland habitat, squirrels, chipmunks, and raptors.