Weighing 13.5 - 19 kg, the Kori Bustard is the largest of the bustards.

It is reluctant to fly unless threatened. Normally runs before take-off but can take off from a standing position as well. It has a most peculiar gait when foraging, stepping very carefully onwards holding its head up constantly.

It is solitary or lives in pairs when breeding, otherwise somewhat gregarious in flocks of up to 40 or more birds. It is usually silent, emits a deep vum on take-off. Its food consists of insects, small vertebrates, seeds, carrion, and Acacia gum.

The Kori Bustard favors dry thornveld, grassland and semi-desert and although common and conspicuous in Etosha National Park, this resident bird is rare to uncommon outside game reserves. Vulnerable.