Medium-sized, cryptically-patterned francolin. Shows rufous patches in the wings in flight. Found on the ground in areas with thick grass, ranging from pure grassland to lush woodland. Mostly at moderate elevations. Call is a rhythmic up-and-down repeated “chil-it, chil-chow”. Generally scarce, shy, and retiring. Range does not overlap extensively with similar francolins. Much more washed-out and buffy than the more cleanly and boldly marked Shelley’s Francolin.