Greater Yellow-Finch

Large, dark sparrow with extensive geographic variation. Larger than Song Sparrow, and generally darker with thicker streaking. Four groups of subspecies: Red (only subspecies found in eastern U.S., but breeds to Alaska), Slate-colored (Rockies), Sooty (Pacific Northwest), Thick-billed (California). Habitat varies across range, but generally breeds in forests with thick understory, often with plenty of conifers. In winter, tends to occur in dense thickets. Forages mainly on the ground in search of seeds. Visits feeders.

A strange, chunky rusty-brown forest babbler with a white face and throat, pale blue-gray eyes, and a pale bill, rendering it unmistakable. Juvenile has a browner throat. Family groups of 5–12 move quickly and noisily through the canopy and middle levels of montane forest between 1000 and 2100 meters of elevation, dangling upside down or behaving like nuthatches, investigating moss, ferns, and bark for food. Groups give harsh grating calls mingled with sweeter nasal “nyeeer” notes. 

Large spiderhunter with thick yellow eyerings, a yellow ear tuft, and a long decurved bill. Yellow eyering and cheek splotch serve to distinguish it from most other spiderhunters. Yellow-eared Spiderhunter is very similar but noticeably smaller, with a narrower eyering, faint streaking on the breast (versus plain), and a slightly longer, more slender bill. Found in lowland and foothill forests, where it forages actively in the upper levels. Calls include harsh chip notes.