It is generally found in somewhat open wooded habitats, including scrub, woodland of early successional to late mature secondary stages, forest edges, thickets and bamboo stands.

In Sichuan it is replaced at 1,000 m (3,300 ft) above sea level by the ashy-throated parrotbill, whereas in Taiwan, where it is the only species of parrotbill, it occurs from sea level to 3,100 m (10,200 ft) and occupies the widest niche of any bird on that island.

The tail is graduated and like other parrotbills the bill is short and has the nostrils concealed by feather bristles.

The flanks are similar to the upperparts but slightly buffy, and the belly is cream-buff merging into the breast.

These flocks vary in size through the year, being at their smallest during the breeding season and increasing to as many as 140 individual birds in the winter.