Ventrally, pale brown to whitish with scattered by dark brown streaks extending from chest along sides and flanks. A specimen of this color phase has yet to be secured in Montana. The overall plumage is gray.
Calls are short.
Begins nesting in March. Nests in natural cavities or woodpecker holes. Clutch size three to seven. Incubation approximately 26 days. Young fledge at approximately 30 days.