Taita Apalis

Often draws attention to its presence by its song: an ascending sequence of “kwa” notes, similar to Green-backed Trogon, but faster. Two subspecies occur in Brazil, Paraguay, and northeastern Argentina with limited geographical overlap that vary in the color of the breast and eyering; the southern one has a red belly and eyering, while the northern one has a yellow belly and eyering. The males of both subspecies have a violet-blue head and breast, a green back, and a white undertail. Females have a dull gray breast and the undertail is gray with white tips. Found in the middle to upper levels of forests and woodlands.

A fairly large weaver with a long thin pointed bill. The male has a pale eye, and during the breeding season a brownish wash to the ear. Non-breeding males and females are dull, with olive-green upperparts and paler underparts. Found locally in areas with a mix of trees, bushes, and abundant grassy ground cover. Nests adjacent water. Gives a typical weaver chattering and rasping song, and a “chek” call. Breeding males are distinctive, and other plumages can be identified with caution by a combination of their size, long and thin bill, and the pale eyes of the males.

Rather graceful-looking brown babbler with a long tail and long legs. Averages paler below than above, but generally unmarked. Inhabits foothill forests with dense undergrowth, where it forages close to or on the ground. Almost completely unmarked appearance distinguishes it from most other babblers in range. Listen for its loud, strident song, a repetitive “wit-wee, wit-wee, wit-wee.” Calls include rattling trills, a harsh descending laugh, and sharp single notes.