Black-cheeked Lovebird

Small, grayish-brown sandpiper. Typically shows relatively short, blunt-tipped bill, but this varies across the breeding range: western populations are shortest-billed, eastern populations are longest, and females have longer bills than males! Also note blackish legs, although they can appear dull gray or greenish. In breeding plumage, fairly pale grayish brown, sometimes with brighter rusty cap and cheek. Nonbreeding is plain gray above and white below. Juveniles have attractive scaly pattern on upperparts, and variable coloration: usually grayish with some buffy areas, occasionally brighter rufous. Most similar to Western and Least Sandpipers. Western averages slightly larger and longer-billed, with brighter rufous on breeding adults and juveniles; nonbreeding birds paler but extremely similar to Semipalmated. Least Sandpiper is darker and browner. Breeds on high Arctic tundra. Migrates to South America for the winter; very rarely lingers in the U.S. past November, unlike Western Sandpiper. Usually found in flocks, sometimes in very large numbers. Prefers open mudflats, but also found in marshes and beaches.

A large and little-known swiftlet found over montane forest. Known from northern Luzon, Negros, and a few mountains on Mindanao, although there are no recent records from Luzon. Hard to identify. Appears large-headed, with pale brown underparts, dark brown upperparts, a dark rump, and a forked tail. Similar to Philippine Swiftlet, but Whitehead’s is larger, with a more bulky-headed appearance. Vocalizations unknown.

Fairly large gray bird with flat head and upright posture. Distinctive white forehead and chin and bright red bill. Sexes alike. Found in forested areas, often perched on an open branch at middle or upper levels; also can be seen at forest edges or clearings. Usually in pairs or small family groups. Often a flock leader; listen for its loud squawking and rollicking calls to find other flocking species.