The Rufous-collared kingfisher gets its name from the rusty-colored band across its head. This band is complemented by a black band above the eye and a blue band under the chin. The back is bright blue, the crown is green or greenish, while the breast is rusty-colored. The female, on the other hand, is green with beige-colored spots, where the male is blue. Both sexes are approximately 22 to 25.5 cm (8.7-10.0 inches) long and weigh about 60 to 90 grams (2.1-3.2 ounces), which makes them medium-sized kingfishers. The bands on the head distinguish this species from other kingfishers in its range: the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra and Borneo. The species is described as "shy" and considered "near threatened".