[3] These birds differ from halophila in exhibiting less sexual dimorphism, and displaying a prominent white wingbar, and thus are closer to the nominate race.

Both males and females share a similar appearance, featuring a white crown, nape, chest, and belly that contrast with the black head and neck, which extend to the black back.

It is native to semi-desert areas of the Middle East, from eastern Egypt to Iran.

The Mourning Wheatear is primarily found in desert habitats, favoring environments with caves for shelter, rocky slopes, valleys, screes, cliffs, ravines, dry barren wadis, ridges, and flat plains.

As a result, it is classified as "Least Concern" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).