Found in chaparral and brushy areas, scrub oak, riparian tickets, and open woodlands; also frequents open grassy and weedy areas during migration.

Males bluish underparts contrast with the white belly, white wing bars, and orangish-brown breast band (which extends to sides and flanks). Female: grayish-brown above, buffy below, without streaking on underparts.

Nests in shrubs, where it builds a cup-shaped structure using grasses. Eats fruits, seeds, and insects.