A small and relatively short-necked bustard. The male has a black-and-gray pattern on the head, while the female is plainer, but with abundant white spotting. Both sexes show a white belly. A white bar across the wing is conspicuous in flight. Found in dry savanna, shrubland, and semi-desert habitats. Often in pairs. Smaller than other bustards in its range. Somewhat like Buff-crested Bustard, but has a white rather than black belly.