Generally smal, yellowish or brownish, largely granivorous (seed eaters) passerines. Most subspecies are gregarious, especially in the non-breeding season, when aggregating in flocks. They often roost communally in bushes and will also bathe and drink in groups for protection. Songs are rich and varied
All subspecies show sexual colour dimorphism. Their stout, conical bills are adapted for eating seeds. Food is obtained by hopping on the ground and pecking seeds directly from grasses or the ground itself. They need to drink regularly.
They are monogamous and territorial. They build cup-shaped nests in tree or shrub. Some subspecies line the nest with soft, whitish plant down or sheeps wool. They lay clutches of 3 - 5 white, lightly speckled eggs. Incubation is done by the female only, she is prvisioned on the nest by the male. The chicks are fed by both parents. In defence of the nest, the dults may give an injury-feigning distraction display.

Crithagra = derivation obscure

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