It is about the same size as the European Magpie, but with a longer tail. The head, neck and breast are black, the rest of the plumage on the bird is a rich dark blue to purple in colour. It has white markings on the wings and the tail. The bill, feet and legs are red, and the iris is yellowish.

Usually found in groups of 6 or more, it appears to avoid any human disturbance and quickly moves away from such encounters. Its food is similar to that of others in the genus, taking a wide range of fruits and seeds, insects and other invertebrates. Wild figs appear to be a favourite.

The nest is usually in a tree or shrub and there are usually 3-5 eggs laid. Both sexes build the nest and feed the young with only the female incubating them.