The GIB is a large ground-runner bird with a height of about one metre. However, it can take short flights to escape danger. It is unmistakable with its black cap contrasting with the pale head and neck. The body is brownish with a black patch spotted in white. The male is deep sandy buff-coloured, and, during the breeding season, sports a black breast band. The crown of the head is black and crested and is puffed up by displaying males. In the female, which is smaller than the male, the head and neck are not pure white, and the breast band is either rudimentary, broken or absent.