This boldly marked black-and-white kingfisher features a short, bushy crest and a glossy all-dark bill. Although it resembles the Crested Kingfisher, it is smaller, with a more distinctly patterned head and breast, and a less erect crest. It is often spotted perched in pairs or small groups and frequently hovers over the water while hunting for food. Found in a variety of waterside habitats, including lakes, estuaries, and mangroves, it produces a range of sharp notes along with dry trilling and rattling calls.