It is best identified by the white spots (usually confined to the head and back) on its back. The back is typically brown, ranging from light brown to rust. The feet and tail are reddish-brown.

It is reported from India (Sikkim), Bhutan, China (Sichuan, Yunnan), Indonesia (Jawa, Sumatera, Kalimantan), Lao People's Democratic Republic, Malaysia (Sarawak, Sabah, Peninsular Malaysia), Myanmar, Nepal, Thailand, and Vietnam.

It is described from 200-4000 m above sea level in temperate pine forests, wet tropical evergreen forests, dry evergreen forests, rhododendron scrub and on rock cliffs. It can be found in both primary and partially cut primary forests.