Yellow-bellied Flycatcher

A very small nondescript sunbird with a short orange-based bill that curves uniformly along its length; easily mistaken for females of other sunbirds. The only features on the olive upperparts are indistinct paler eyebrows and lines running under the eyes, and yellow edging to the wings. Although often hidden, the male has yellow or whitish (not red) tufts at the shoulders. Singles are local and inconspicuous at the edges of lowland and riverine forest, sometimes entering secondary growth; it joins mixed-flocks and is frequently attracted to epiphytes in mossy clumps. Calls a high-pitched “tseeep” and trills. Little Green and Fraser’s sunbirds are similar to Bates’s but brighter, with straighter bills and more distinct yellowish eye-rings; Ursula’s Sunbird has a long decurved bill and grayish face and underparts.

Very large, long-tailed game bird of tropical and subtropical forest. Often seen high in trees or flying through the forest canopy; usually not seen in areas near people except in some protected areas due to hunting pressure. Typically in pairs or small groups and wary. Plumage dark overall (often looks blackish) with bright red throat wattle; white streaking on body visible at closer range. Crest is bushy and usually not a striking feature.

A long, slightly curving white eyebrow gives this species an elegant, sophisticated appearance. Typically keeps to cover on the ground and in mid-levels of trees but occasionally ventures into the open to feed, particularly during migration. Alert and quick to flush. Adult male has gray head, brown back, and orange belly. Females are brownish overall with more faded orange on the underparts. Breeds in eastern Siberian forests, typically in damp areas near water, or areas with dense understory. Winters in more open habitats, such as parks, but not as fond of open spaces as blackbirds. Well-spaced song phrases consist of rich warbling and ringing buzzy whistles. Also gives a high, piercing “tsssst!”