Found in open woodlands, along forest edge, and in second-growth habitats or weedy areas.

Pinkish-red on head, throat, and breast. Told from House Finch by lack of brown streaking on belly and flanks. Back is streaked and also pinkish-red in color. Female has broad eyebrow.

Uses twigs, grasses, fruits, and mosses to build its cup-shaped nest in trees. Primarily feeds on plant matter (seeds, buds, blossoms, nectar, and fruit); occasionally eat insects.