It is a small passerine bird in the family Fringillidae, found only on the Đà Lạt Plateau. Its natural habitat is open montane pine forest and scrubland. The bird measures 13.5 to 14 cm in length. It feeds on pine seeds and has also been observed catching newly hatched termites.

It has a large conical bill, a black head and a narrow bright yellow collar. The plumage of the female is similar to that of the male but is less brightly coloured. It is threatened by habitat loss.