A true desert finch species, they are usually found in sandplain spinifex and arid rocky range country, especially in gorges and where pools of water can be found. Its range stretches through the central region of Western Australia (as far west as the coastline), through central Australia (northern South Australia and Northern Territory) and far western region of Queensland.

The bird can be identified with crimson face, boldly spotted white on the sides of the breast and flanks, irregular scarlet red belly stripes, brown upper part, red rump, black-brown tail.  They have a slender pointed beak with a reddish colouration on the lower part of the beak, tinging the tip of the upper part of the beak. The male of the species have the crimson colouration extend down from the face to the throat and a larger crimson streak on the centre of the breast.