A large, chunky, robust lark that has a heavy bill with a yellowish base, a densely streaked chest, and a small crest that is sometimes raised. Pairs and small groups occupy open scrub, grassland, and fields, where they walk confidently, picking or digging for seeds and insects. The species sits on fence posts or low bushes issuing a characteristic melodic fluting song, “tsilo-teelo-teelo-trip” or similar, likened to the opening of a squeaky gate.