The species is also established in the downtown area of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; and in Buenos Aires, Argentina; where it was introduced.

The bird feeds mostly on seeds and fruit in its native habitat, and feral populations have adapted to eat blossoms and nectar.

During dry periods, which often leads to fruit scarcity, the bird adapts by eating more seeds, particularly from the plant Erythrina dominguezii.

[4] These birds have been observed participating in geophagia, the deliberate ingestion of soil, commonly in location of clay licks.

[6] The termite nests appear to provide more physiological benefits than ordinary ground soil, including macronutrients like potassium, magnesium, and aluminum, which may help with egg formation during the breeding season.