It is the only bird species endemic to the Cayman Islands since the extinction of the Grand Cayman thrush (Turdus ravidus), though several bird subspecies are also endemic.

It can be distinguished from the Cuban bullfinch by its slightly larger bill size and the much paler coloration of the female bird.

[2] This species breeds primarily in the Central Mangrove Wetland.

[3] Its population is declining due to invasive mammals.

Habitat fragmentation may also be a potential major risk, though currently this is very low.