Chestnut-throated Seedeater
Sporophila telasco
Fairly common in desert lowlands, favoring agricultural fields, weedy and grassy areas, and brushy hedgerows; often sings from prominent perches such as utility wires. Note small size but with a very stout, stubby bill. Male plumage variable; clean whitish and slate-gray overall with dark rusty chin in full breeding plumage, but often messy and mottled. Female is drab pale buffy with a streaked back; note her big, stubby pinkish bill.
Taxonomy
- Scientific name
- Sporophila telasco
- Authority
- (Lesson, RP, 1828)
- Order
- Passeriformes
- Family
- Thraupidae
- Genus
- Sporophila
Range and habitat
- Migration
- Resident species
Conservation
- Population trend
- rising
Photos
Distribution
Bird Calls
Other Birds

Emin's Shrike
Lanius gubernator
A small, attractive shrike with a rufous back and rump, a gray cap and neck, and a black mask through the eyes. Usually shows a small white patch on the front of the wing. Uncommon and local in moist savanna habitats, usually in pairs or small groups. Not very vocal, but does give a series of whistles and low, scratchy notes. Similar to migratory Red-backed Shrike, but smaller, with a rufous rather than gray rump.

Sundaic Island-Thrush
Turdus javanicus
Large thrush endemic to the montane forests of Sumatra, Borneo, and Java (generally above 2000 meters). Appearance varies across its range; birds in northern Sumatra and parts of western and central Java are dull brown overall, whereas birds elsewhere in range have orange bellies. Always note bright orange bill, eyering, legs, and feet. Forages at all levels of forest, especially on the ground. Calls include low cups and loud, explosive chattering series.

Crimson Sunbird
Aethopyga siparaja
A common sight throughout much of its range, this medium-sized sunbird can be found in parks, gardens, and plantations, as well as more pristine open forest and forest edge environments. Male is bright red with a dark gray belly and iridescent blue cap and “moustache.” Female is dull olive-yellow overall with brighter underparts. High, squeaky repetitive song is loud but often difficult to locate in high branches. Calls frequently, giving various squeaks and “tsip” notes while foraging.
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