The green-backed twinspot inhabits lowland moist forests of the tropical region. it may also be found in grassland and shrubland habitats, as well as arable land, and also exotic tree plantations.

These birds dine mainly on grass seeds like basket grass, ribbon bristle grass, and forest wood grass. They will also eat stinging nettle and some small insects like aphids.

in South africa, these birds breed from December through to april as monogamous couples that can mate for life. Both sexes build the nest, made mainly from grass stems, ѕkeɩetonized leaves, rootlets, twigs, and lichen. The interior is lined with feathers, fine grass, and other soft material, usually concealed in the tree canopy. 4 – 6 eggs are laid within which are incubated by both parents for 12 – 14 days. Both sexes go on to feed the young who become fledged after 17 days.

This species has a large breeding range, however, due to difficulties in observing it its population has not been quantified. The population is not thought to be under any immediate threat.