Circular nostrils are wholly exposed. The wings are rounded and the tail long. The legs and feet are stout, the toes and claws long. Plumage is not soft but stiff and harsh. The color of the back is olive brown while the breast and neck is yellowish-white with streaks of brown.
Sexes are similar.
Each pair nest is separated from the others, including separate entrances. The nest is unmistakable. Nesting is from March to June. The Palmchat lives in the lower to mid-level elevations. It is not found in dense forests or in higher elevations.