A large, mostly dark brown francolin with pale feather-edging that forms a fine scaly pattern on the body. It also has dull red legs and a mostly reddish bill with a dark top and yellow base. The pale eyebrow and throat are emphasized on a dark face. The juvenile is duller. The loud, territorial crowing call (“kak-kaak, kak-keek, kak-keek”) is given from a low perch; it increases in pitch but decreases in volume. Bold and confiding, it is widespread and common in its range; found in fynbos, semi-arid zones, and coastal scrub. Gray-winged Francolin differs by having yellow legs, a rufous-streaked chest, and a gray-and-brown necklacing pattern.