Rather plain sparrow-like bird. Sexes look alike: overall grayish brown and finely streaked with fairly plain head (narrow whitish eyering is indistinct). Note rather big bill, and fine dark breast streaks that sometimes merge into a dark blotch on the middle of the breast. A grassland species, found in open farmland, steppes, and heathlands. Mostly inconspicuous, but male sings from low perch on bush or fence, giving a unique if not tuneful song: harsh buzzing preceded by quiet knocking notes. Lacks white outer tail feathers shown by most buntings. Calls include various buzzes, as well as a quiet, clipped “tsi.”