Brazilian Tanager

Spectacular but reclusive bird, most often located by its distinctive voice. In N end of range (to NW Bolivia) lives in thick grassy hillsides and Polylepis forest in the high Andes. S of Bolivia, in W Paraguay to central Argentina, expands into Chaco forest in lowlands, where it prefers thorn forest with dense understory. Song an evenly pitched series of metallic or dry notes. Population in central Argentina differs vocally, with a much faster song.

A small bird of lowland and foothill forest and more open woodland. Black upperparts are glossed blue, while white underparts are washed with pale gray. A red stripe runs down the belly. Note the fairly long slender bill. Similar to Fire-breasted Flowerpecker, but lacks the black line down the belly. Voice includes sharp, repetitive “chik!” calls, sometimes descending into a more varied, rapid series and a trill.

Small energetic plover with a fine bill, white underparts, and pale gray back. Lacks breast band. Adult has an obvious rusty-red cap, whereas juvenile has varying reddish tinges on the back of the head. Occurs beside a wide variety of saline wetlands where it moves quickly as it forages along the ground. Common around inland lakes as well as at the coast.