'Raabon'dhi' is a medium-sized heron measuring 58–66 cm, with a stocky build, short neck and legs. Adult Raabon'dhi are striking, with a black cap and upper back, gray wings and tail, and white or pale gray underparts. They have a thick, black bill, red eyes, and yellow-green legs, that turn pink during the breeding season. During courtship, the black feathers take on a blue-green gloss and long white head plumes appear. Non-breeding adults are duller and the plumes disappear. Juveniles appear very different and are mostly brown with large pale spots on the back, streaked underparts, and grayish tails.