Pipraeidea bonariensis is a very attractive bird, found in a variety of semi-open habitats with sparse forests, and in the lowlands surrounding the coastal lagoons. It forrages for fruit and insects in bushes and trees. A year-round resident, the male is very colourful with a blue hood and black mask, black back, blue wings and orange to yellowish underparts. Usually seen in pairs, the female is duller in colour, with an olive back and pale ochre underbelly, easily identified due to her robust bill and the presence of males.