Locally-distributed, easily-overlooked tanager. Often in pairs; male is almost entirely black with obscure red-and-white patch at base of wing, most visible in flight; female is gray and brown. Found in savanna scrub on weathered, sandy soils; may also occur along savanna edges and in patches of dry vegetation on rock outcrops in rainforest regions. Usually remains separate from other species, except when congregating at fruit sources. Male is similar to White-lined Tanager but smaller, with less white at shoulder; the two species typically occur in different habitats, and females are quite dissimilar.