Foothill Schiffornis

Schiffornis aenea

Very plain bird of cloud forest along the east slope of the Andes in Ecuador, northern Peru, and far southern Colombia. It usually looks dull brown and featureless, though it may show an olive tinge and paler chin if seen in bright light. Sexes look alike. It is one of several species that together were formerly known as Thrush-like Schiffornis; they differ in range, voice, and elevation. Often best identified by its frequently given song: a wavering whistle that seems out of tune, rising and falling in pitch several times. Stays in the forest understory, and often perches motionless for long periods.

Identification

It is medium-sized, about 24 cm (9 in.) long.

Taxonomy

The foothill schiffornis has traditionally been placed in the manakin family, but evidence strongly suggest it is better placed in Tityridae, where it is now placed by the South American Classification Committee.<p>The species was split by the AOU in 2013 from the species complex thrush-like schiffornis.

Scientific name
Schiffornis aenea
Authority
Zimmer, JT, 1936
Order
Passeriformes
Family
Tityridae
Genus
Schiffornis

Range and habitat

It is found central Ecuador and northern Peru. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests and subtropical or tropical moist montane forests.

Migration
Resident species

Conservation

Population trend
declining

Photos

Distribution

Bird Calls

Other Birds

Northern Grosbeak-Canary

Northern Grosbeak-Canary

Crithagra donaldsoni

A large seedeater with a very large pinkish bill. Males are brownish-olive above and yellow below with a diffuse but noticeable head pattern; females are brown above and white below with heavy streaking all over the body. Both sexes have a yellow rump that is conspicuous in flight. Found in dry thorn savanna, thorn scrub, and semi-desert, usually in pairs or small groups. The distinctive song consists of series of sliding whistles: several on a higher pitch, then several on a lower pitch, several on the higher pitch, and so on. Separated from all other seedeaters in its range by its larger size and heavier pale bill. 

Eastern Screech-Owl

Eastern Screech-Owl

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Small, stocky owl with large head and no neck. Pointed ear tufts are often raised. Varies in color from gray to bright rufous (reddish-brown). Intricate pattern is perfect for camouflage against tree bark. Yellow eyes. Active at night when they prey on small birds and mammals. More often heard than seen; listen for its descending whinny and longer trill. Roosts and nests in cavities, including nest boxes. Found in a variety of habitats with trees, particularly near water.

Bamboo Antshrike

Bamboo Antshrike

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Small antshrike of bamboo thickets in lowland rainforest. Found primarily in bamboo forests, but occasionally also in other densely vegetated thickets such as vine tangles and cane stands. Males are finely barred black-and-white. Females are reddish brown above and dull yellow below, with black barring throughout. Both sexes have a prominent crest and hook-tipped bill. Similar to Fasciated Antshrike, but separated by brown eye (not red), less heavy bill, and voice; listen for its song, a series of loud, metallic “chink” notes, given at an even pace of about three notes per second.

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