A pale, large-billed finch found in dry areas with sparse plant cover. Usually seen in small and medium-sized groups. Pinkish hues make it superficially similar to rosefinches, but it is much paler overall with very different patterning. Male is brown with a pink blush on the brow, rump, breast, and wings. Females are pale gray-brown with much fainter, almost unnoticeable, pink. White wing stripes flash brightly in flight. Usually fairly quiet outside of breeding season. Calls consist of various rising nasal notes and chirrups; song is a jumbled series of these notes.