In this terrestrial cracid, males are mostly black and have a characteristic curly crest. Their bills are yellow with a black tip. Females are gray barred with white, with a black bill with a hint of yellow at the base of the lower mandible.

They are monogamous birds, living alone or in pairs. They build their nests with branches and sticks high above the treetops. The white eggs are incubated by the female, although both are responsible for caring for the young.

Its main threats are habitat loss and hunting.