Closely related to and resembling the Northern Cardinal, the Pyrrhuloxia is best distinguished by its parrot-shaped bill and more subtle color patterns. It is restricted to desert areas with tall bushes and scattered mesquite trees. This species feeds on the ground and low in the vegetation on insects, fruits and seeds. In the winter small family groups join together to form flocks. The grass and twig nest is placed in a low bush or dense patch of vegetation.