Obscure Honeyeater

Widespread and often fairly common in southern South America. Found in varied habitats from Patagonian shrub-steppe to parks and gardens to high Andean puna shrub-grassland to lowland desert scrub. Often in pairs, foraging low to high from weedy brush and shrubs to tree canopy; agile and often active, clinging upside down at tips of branches. Identified by streaky face, mostly plain back, and very long spiky-tipped tail. Voice varies regionally and multiple cryptic species are likely involved.

A small rock-thrush with blue-gray upperparts and hood and an orange belly. The tail has a black-and-orange “T” pattern that is conspicuous in flight. Males and females vary slightly: males are cleaner blue-gray above, while females are more brownish. Found locally in a variety of habitats with a mix of rocks, trees, and bushes. Sometimes also on and around human structures. Similar to redstarts, but easily distinguished by the clean gray hood and the lack of black on the face. Also similar to male Rufous-tailed Rock-Thrush, but smaller, lacking white on the back, and with a more extensive gray hood. The quiet song consists of musical phrases that can be short or quite long. 

Large-headed, predominantly brown kingfisher with electric-blue back and wings, heavy red bill, and snow-white patch from the throat through the breast. Common both near and away from water; frequently seen perched on fence posts and telephone lines near wetlands, lakes, agricultural fields, and clearings. Gives jarring, raptor-like descending trills and cackles, often in flight.