The name of this species was given due to its singing, very similar to a laugh. It is a small bird, measuring about 9.5 centimeters. It has a grayish body, with small brown spots on the wings, as well as a very characteristic tuft. It feeds on small insects and fruits and is very active, moving quickly up in the trees. The species is easily heard throughout the Campus of Praia Vermelha, with the recording of giggling nests within the Campus.