The specific name is derived from the Latin "torquatus" meaning wearing a twisted collar or necklace.

The back is generally reddish-brown with large patches of grey and there is a dark collar around the throat.

[2] Pristidactylus torquatus is endemic to Chile where it is found on the west side of the Andes between 35° and 42° south.

Its natural habitat is the extensive southern beech forests (Nothofagus) that grow in this temperate climate.

[1] Pristidactylus torquatus is a terrestrial species and is found mainly on the ground under the forest trees.