In terms of size, it has a length of around 12 cm and a wingspan between 20 and 23 cm. Regarding its characteristics, the most noticeable aspect is the color of its plumage, yellowish mainly on the chest and head, with dark stripes on the back and wings. Females (in the photograph on the left) have lighter stripes, being more grayish. They also have a thick beak typical of granivorous birds.

For this reason, it typically feeds on seeds. In addition to seeds, it can also feed on weeds, herbaceous plants, and grasses. It reproduces between April and July, when it builds its nest in trees or shrubs hidden among the foliage. These nests are composed of grass, roots, moss, and feathers. The female lays 3 to 5 eggs, which incubate for about 11 to 13 days. After hatching, both parents feed the chicks for 14 to 16 days. At the end of this time, the chicks are ready to leave the nest, but are fed by their parents for another 9 to 10 days.