Black-throated Grosbeak

Endemic to Great and Little Nicobar Islands, where it inhabits lush forests. A jewel of a bird, with an emerald-green body, black head, scarlet lower belly, and chestnut crown. Like other pittas, forages on the forest floor, where it can be difficult to see. Listen for its song, a series of three to four barking notes. Formerly grouped together with several other closely related species as “Hooded Pitta.”

Handsome and distinctive plover of windswept open grasslands and sandy dunes from Patagonian steppe to the high Andes; also ranges to agricultural fields, mainly during migration and winter. Mostly uncommon and often rather local. Usually found as pairs or small groups, running well and blending in easily with its grassy steppe habitat. Note the elegant, tall-standing posture, bold face pattern, straight pointed bill, bright rusty throat, and striped back. No similar species.

Medium-sized tree-dweller which resembles a cross between a tiny magpie and a shrike. Dark above and snowy-white below. If seen well, note coffee-brown back and dark blue gloss on the wings, crown, and tail. Pale panels in the wings most obvious in flight. Travels in pairs and small groups through the upper and middle storeys of hilly broadleaf evergreen forest, occasionally descending down to the ground. Song is a unique metallic trilled whistle that ends with a descending note. Calls are harsh rattling notes, typically given in series.