A nondescript-looking small songbird of arid open areas. Adult brownish above, white below; juvenile similar but has neat white edging to its dark feathers. Crestless, stout-billed appearance distinguishes this species from other larks in the region. The slightly larger Greater Short-toed Lark is similar but has a small black neck stripe, weaker breast streaking, and is paler overall, with a lighter face and belly.