A pale yellowish-brown lark with a long, spiky crest and a thick, short bill. The heavy streaking on the upperparts contrasts strongly with the rest of the plumage. Similar to the Malabar and Crested Larks, but Tawny is smaller, with minimal streaking on the breast, paler cheeks, and a different bill shape. It is found in dry, stony fields and grassland. Sings in flight with relaxed wingbeats. The song is extraordinarily rich, long, and continuous, including complex and effortless imitations of other species.