Mature adults have dark gray or brown plumage with a white line beginning beneath the eye extending to the back of the neck like a collar.

Both sexes emit a faint whistling contact call and musical purring but can become very noisy when aggressive.

[6] Glareola nuchalis associates with the rocks along the embankments of rivers and lakes as its seasonal movements are determined by local water levels.

They live in flocks of about 26 pairs in and on the rocks feeding upon insects in the morning and evening and wading in the cool waters during the heat of the day.

[7] An elaborate courtship occurs in flight with wings held high over the back with neck feathers flared to emphasize their collar.