The breeding male (12–13.5 cm) is mainly black above and white below, with a large white wing patch, white tail sides and a small forehead patch.
Non-breeding males, females and juveniles have the black replaced by a pale brown.
The bill has the broad but pointed shape typical of aerial insectivores.
As well as taking insects in flight, this species hunts caterpillars amongst the oak foliage, and will eat berries.

1st photo: In my yard, Hilversum, The Netherlands, 2 May 2020
2nd photo: Spandersbos, Hilversum, The Netherlands, 13 May 2013
3rd & 4th photo: In my yard, Hilversum, The Netherlands, 30 April 2015
5th photo: Zanderij Crailo, Hilversum, The Netherlands, 18 May 2023