They are distinguished from the Firecrowned Bishop by having only its face black in colour and not forming a hood.
Wherever there is water, these small birds can be found nesting in the reeds, even at garden ponds.
They are gregarious, coming together in huge flocks of hundreds of birds. They feed on grain and seeds so mainly are seen on the ground.
Clutches average 3 eggs per season where they are fed insects by the female.