The female lacks the head and breast bands and is heavily barred on the back and flanks.

It has long pointed wings, which are grey underneath, a short tail and a fast direct flight.

This gregarious species occurs in a belt across Africa from Mauritania and Cameroon east to Sudan and Uganda.

It breeds on open areas with some trees, including savanna, scrubland and similar habitats.

Flocks fly to watering holes in the evening to drink and are largely nocturnal.