Medium-sized sandgrouse, smaller than Spotted Sandgrouse. Rather compact build, lacking any long projecting tail feathers. Males have a black band in front of eyes and on the chin on a yellow-orange face. Females are heavily patterned. In flight shows a strong contrasting two-toned underwing pattern. Flight call a rather dry, nasal mumble, “hu-het hu-het.” Breeds on stony plains and hills in the harsh desert. Congregates at drinking spots in the morning.