Pale-throated Wren-Babbler

Large, dark swift of tepui highlands. Note generally dark appearance, broad wings, and forked tail. If seen in good light, chestnut collar of adult is diagnostic; otherwise this species may be difficult to distinguish from other large swifts, especially at a distance. Found around the tepuis and down to at least 400 meters in the surrounding region. Forages high for insects, often with other swifts; may descend to just above treetop level to feed on swarms of emerging winged ants and termites. In poor light, most similar to White-chinned Swift but has more deeply forked tail.

Uncommon in thickets, forest edge, and gardens, where found mainly at fruiting trees and bushes. Usually in pairs or small flocks, and often quite inconspicuous. Handsome male is unmistakable, with bold head pattern, golden-yellow and dark reddish body plumage, and bold white wing pattern. Female is notably drab, grayish olive overall with a small white mark on the wing, and a ghosting of the male wing pattern.

A small rufous songbird with a longish tail and a stout bill. Uniform rufous-brown above with a thick buff eyebrow, and pale below with a warm buff wash on throat and breast. Juvenile duller, less rufous, with ill-defined eyebrow. A secretive bird, found singly or in pairs within thickets inside lowland and hill forest. Confined to Timor. Combination of heavy bill, broad buff brow, long tail, unmarked upperparts, and buff wash to throat and breast separates it from all other brown, warbler-like songbirds. Song is a crisp two- to three-note “zwi-chit” or “zi-chiwit.” Also gives trills and grating rattles.