White-streaked Friarbird

A tiny brown owl of humid forest in mountains and foothills, with brown upperparts and white underparts with long, broad rufous-brown streaks. Tooting song is variable, though the most common pattern is “doot doot-doot doot do-do-do,” repeated every 10-30 seconds. Often sings during the day, and can be mistaken for a barbet, but the exact pattern of toots is unlike any barbet. Visually, could be mistaken for a scops-owl, but separated by the distinctive voice, the broad brown streaks below, and the lack of ear tufts.

Flocks of these large sea ducks enliven northern coastlines. Males are white and black with a soft suffusion of green on the nape. Immature males are variable and messy-looking with patches of black and white. Females vary from rich rufous-brown to cold grayish, always with extensive black barring covering body and wings. Slight variation in bill shape and color across subspecies, especially obvious on males; Pacific birds have brightest orange bills, most others have greenish bills. Dives to feed on mollusks and other crustaceans. In late summer, look for flocks of females with dozens of ducklings; broods often join together. Compare females with other eider species, and note details of bill and head shape.

Small, vocal bird of rainforest canopy. Yellow below, dull green above, with light brown-gray head, light peach bill. Sexes alike. Often found with tanagers in mixed species flocks. Frequently heard as it vocalizes throughout the day, a short warbled phrase, recalling Chivi Vireo.