During the breeding season, it can be found in arid, rocky scrublands, often at higher altitudes, on mountain slopes with scattered bushes and small trees. In winter and during migration, it prefers drier, open woodland, acacia scrub, and thorny bushes, including semi-desert areas. Its range spans from Turkey to Turkmenistan for breeding, and from Sudan to Tanzania and parts of the Arabian Peninsula for wintering.

This robin is often shy and can be elusive, preferring to stay hidden within dense vegetation. However, males may sing conspicuously from exposed perches atop bushes or rocks, particularly at dawn and dusk. Listen for its rich, varied song, which includes fluty whistles and and trills, as well as a harsh "churr" or "tak" alarm call. When foraging, it typically hops on the ground or low branches, often flicking its tail. Identification relies on the male's striking blue-grey, white throat, black face, and orange underparts, while females are duller with more subdued brown and buff tones.

The breeding season typically runs from May to July. Migration periods are generally in spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October). During these periods, they can be seen in a wider variety of habitats as they pass through. They are often most active and vocal in the early morning and late afternoon.