Characterization: A small species, measuring about 15cm in length. They have a little tuft, a striated pattern on the head and a rufous collar, characteristics less pronounced in females. When young, they do not have headbands, the black stain next to the neck or the red collar, but they have black spots on their chests.

Distribution: All Brazilian regions, except for the forested areas of the Amazon. Also found from Mexico to Panama and in most of South America, to Tierra del Fuego (Argentina).

Habitat: Open landscapes, crops, gardens, courtyards, and green roofs of buildings, also abundant in temperate regions and in high ridges exposed to strong, cold winds.

Habits: Diurnal, this bird species lives in isolated couples, and the male attacks neighboring Rufous-collared Sparrows that invade its territory. It is migratory in Rio Grande do Sul and Paraná, appearing in flocks, likely coming from neighboring countries.

Diet: This species is herbivorous, essentially a granivore, feeding on seeds.

Breeding: It lays its eggs in nests built in grass bushes, small shrubs, cypress and "tuia" trees, or on the ground. Nests are easily found by the Shiny Cowbird (Molothrus bonariensis), which are parasites, laying their eggs together with the Rufous-collared Sparrow's. Adult Rufous-collared Sparrows can also often be seen feeding their huge and clumsy adoptive hatchlings.

In the UFRA area: This bird had a spatial distribution restricted to exotic woods and wetlands with riparian forests. It is considered rare in the studied areas, as it was only found twice.