Rhinoptilus

Sandy-brown colored bird found in desert areas effortlessly blends in the environment. The white and black stripe extends back from the eye to the blue back of the head at the nape. This tall and slim bird has a slightly downwardly curved blackish beak that helps with foraging.

The long legs help to run across the semi-desert or desert regions swiftly. The flight feathers show a touch of black color, nicely contrasting with the sandy body.

The slight difference in coloration helps distinguish between different races of cream-colored courser; for instance, the exsul (a subspecies) has a somewhat darker colored (reddish) upper part.