The bird is 13-15 cm long. The male has a bright red-black plumage. The color of the plumage of the female is inconspicuous, gray-brown in color with stripes. Chest and belly from yellow to whitish in color with slightly dark stripes.
The distribution area in Africa extends from the Sahara south to the equator, from Senegal to Ethiopia. The bird lives in meadows near water sources. Birds were introduced to some islands of the Caribbean, such as Puerto Rico , Martinique , Guadeloupe and others.
The bird feeds on seeds and insects.
Outside the breeding season, birds live in large flocks. They nest in small colonies. The male often builds several nests in order to attract several females in this way. There are 2-4 eggs in the clutch.
