These are large birds breeding in open steppes or plateau.

Both species have mainly buff upperparts, an orange face and feathered legs and toes.

The upper surface is feathered, and the underneath has a fleshy pad.

Tibetan sandgrouse has a white belly and black underwings, whereas Pallas's has a black belly and white underwings.

Flocks fly to watering holes at dawn and dusk, on long pointed wings.