[3] Walter Koelz designated the peninsular Indian population south of a line across India from Hubli to Bellary and to Ellore as a separate subspecies testaceus (=testacea) that has brighter rufous colours.

[5][6][7] Two subspecies are recognized:[8] Like other Ammomanes larks, the species has a wide curved beak with the nostrils covered by feathers.

In the field, the rufous colour, the reddish rump and a dark tail band (narrowing towards the sides to give a triangular shape) are distinctive.

[9][10][11] The species is found mainly in low altitude dry regions in open habitats without significant tree cover.

They walk on the ground making quick dashes to capture insects and when disturbed crouch and stay still to flush only when approached very close.

The display of males involves rising high with deep beats of the wing and then descending in a series of nose dives accompanied by short burbling or chirruping notes.