The dorsal (upper) surface of the head and body is yellowish-brown speckled with dark grey or black and the ventral (under) surface is pale. Adults grow to a length of 26 to 43 centimetres (10 to 17 in) and weigh between 200 and 400 grams (7.1 and 14.1 oz). The call is a rapid series of clicks followed by a wheeze, and the bird can also emit a shrill scream.[2]