The genus name is from Ancient Greek khlamus, a horseman's cloak with weights sewn into the corners, and otis, bustard.

The two species are thought to have separated during a period of extreme aridity around 0.9 million years ago.

The Asian houbara occurs in southwestern Asia and along the dry region between the Caspian Sea and the Gobi Desert.

The more northern populations have many birds migrating south in winter and MacQueen's has historically been known for its vagrancy and individuals have been found well outside their usual range.

Populations of both these bustards have been greatly reduced by hunting, falconry and human-induced habitat changes.