This large finch-like tanager occurs from Mexico to Panama in lowlands and hills, using forest edges and open trees. Its black head and breast bib contrast with bright golden-green upperparts.
A black head and breast bib frame the white throat, and the upperparts are bright golden-green. The throat is white in many areas, but birds from Los Tuxtlas in southern Veracruz are described as buff.
It forms small groups in humid tropical lowland forest edges, plantations, semi-open trees, and hedges, moving through the middle and upper levels. It is notably vocal.
An extinction-risk assessment has not been added yet.