Mindanao Lorikeet

Plump little gray bird found along unpolluted rivers and streams, almost always near running water. Bright white "bib" is present across vast majority of range, but a “dark morph” (all dark brown) exists in parts of Asian range. Mainly found in foothills and uplands, rarely in flatlands or coastal plains unless some running water is nearby. Usually encountered as singles feeding inconspicuously among rocks and pools; swims readily and even dives underwater. Often bobs persistently when standing, and flies strongly and low over the water, with whirring wingbeats. Loud, repetitive song is somewhat thrush-like, and carries well over the rushing water. Call is a dry “tzitzit.”

Rather large hummingbird of arid to semiarid forest and forest edge, thorn forest, and semiopen areas with scattered trees. Favors drier habitats, especially forest edges along streams, where feeds mainly in the canopy. As well as feeding at flowers, spends much of its time flycatching for insects, which it hunts from high perches. Note the very long straight bill, striped face with a dark throat, and white patch above the rump. Sexes look similar, but immature lacks adult’s red color in throat (which is very difficult to see; throat usually appears blackish). Lacks the turquoise cap of Long-billed Starthroat and has dusky (not greenish) sides.

Beautiful tanager restricted to Colombia’s western Andes. It is one of the country’s most sought-after endemic birds due to its unique plumage and scarcity. Yellow head crescent, mustache, and breast patch stand out conspicuously against its otherwise black, olive, and blue color pattern. Females and young birds are duller than adult males. Inhabits wet cloud forest, and sometimes joins mixed species flocks. Often perches on an exposed branch, repeatedly giving a burst of sharp notes that rises and then falls.