Churring Cisticola

A huge pale-headed kingfisher with a massive bill. Buff-colored head, underside, and rump contrast with blackish-brown upperparts. Bill usually black, but on Banggai, it is largely orange. Juveniles show dark fringing to breast and nape feathers. Tied to coastal watercourses, particularly mangroves, but also found in scrub, estuaries, and shrubby cliffsides, typically singly or in pairs, often perching well above the water. Unique within limited range. Gives strident “kek-kek-kek” calls and mournful “kew-kew-kew” whistles.

Tiny little terrestrial flycatcher, common in open habitats of southern South America in summer, migrates north in winter. Feeds mainly by hopping on the ground, but perches readily on posts, fences, and low bushes. During migration times, sometimes found in small flocks mixed with other migrants of open country. No similar species in range: male is black with bright rusty back. The much plainer female is easily overlooked, but size, shape, and behavior distinctive, and is often with males.

The smallest loon, with a slender neck and bill. Often holds the thin bill at an upward angle. In breeding plumage, note smooth gray head, brick-red throat, and dark back. In winter, dark cap and hind neck contrast with white face and throat. In flight, often lowers and raises head more than other loons; also note small feet. Juveniles can look quite dark with a smudgy gray neck and limited white throat. Often confused with other loons, especially Pacific and Arctic; note overall head and bill shape and less sharp contrast to the head pattern. Breeds on ponds in the Arctic tundra. Winters primarily on saltwater, but can use large lakes and reservoirs in migration. Sometimes gathers in loose flocks where food is plentiful.