As a particular case among the Psittacidae, it exhibits pronounced sexual dimorphism. Males have a coral-colored beak and green plumage with red and blue feathers on the wings and tail.

Females have a black beak, red plumage on the head and tail, and blue on the chest and nape. They usually inhabit lowland forests and more open regions with tall trees. They live in pairs or small groups. Males are more striking in appearance than females.

Flocks gather to feed on ripe fruit and to spend the night in the trees. Their diet consists of fruit, nuts, seeds, buds, flowers, and nectar.