This sparrow is instantly recognized by its bold facial and tail patterns. Upperparts are buffy brown with dark streaks, two indistinct buffy wing bars, and a buffy patch at the base of the primaries. The long, rounded tail usually fans out in flight; it is dark overall with white outer tail feathers and prominent white corners. The crown and ear coverts are chestnut, with alternating black and white stripes on the head. Underparts are white with a black central spot on the breast and a buffy wash to the sides and flanks. Juvenile has a more muted facial pattern and extensive streaking on the underparts.

Length: 15 (cm) Wingspan: 27 (cm)

Voice:

Song is a musical jumble of clear whistles, warbles, and slow trills.

Habitat:

Uses a variety of open habitats, from scrub steppe, grasslands, and savannah to parks, orchards, and agricultural lands. In eastern part of its range, often found in areas with sandy soils.

Behavior:

Courting males will strut on the ground with their tails held upright and wings drooping.

Feeding:

Forages on the ground for insects and seeds.