Forest Penduline-Tit

Large and boldly patterned sparrow. Look for unique black, white, and rufous face pattern, brighter on adults and duller on immatures. Favors open areas with scattered trees when breeding; often forms flocks in brushy areas in winter. Usually feeds on the ground and flies up into trees when disturbed. In flight, notice long tail with broad white corners.

This streaky hummingbird has a remarkably decurved bill like a Velociraptor claw. The bill shape alone distinguishes it from all hummingbirds except the very similar Buff-tailed Sicklebill, which only overlaps in some areas of the range. Look at the tail pattern to separate the two species: White-tipped is well-named with only white tips on the tail feathers, while Buff-tailed has more extensive buff on the outer tail feathers. Sicklebills are most often seen feeding on Heliconia flowers in the dark forest understory; they’re generally uncommon and fast-moving, difficult to get a look at. Does not visit feeders.

Tiny, bubbly, buffy-colored wren of damp grassy areas. Brighter cinnamon wash on flanks. Compared to similar Marsh Wren, note head pattern: Sedge has streaky crown and much less obvious pale eyebrow. Sedge also has barred wings and lacks plain dark brown shoulder patch. Also note habitat differences: prefers damp weedy fields and meadows, not cattail marshes. Generally secretive, but perches up when singing. Like most wrens, small size contrasts with large voice: one or two introductory notes followed by a loud, sharp, metallic trill of varying speed. Breeds mainly in the central U.S. and Canada; winters to northeast Mexico.