A colorful, chunky waxbill with a large conical bill. Both sexes have a red hood and tail, but females have slightly less extensive red. Found in moist habitats with dense understory, including forest edge, areas along streams, and occasionally reedbeds. Scarce, shy, and inconspicuous. Somewhat similar to Red-headed Bluebill, but separated by many details, including the red tail. The calls include rough “drek” notes that may be given in a long, fast series.