Japanese Woodpecker

Fairly common in puna zone of the high Andes. Found in open areas such as bogs and sandy and stony plains with scattered shrubs and bunchgrass. Often seen in pairs, walking with waddling gait and pumping its tail like most miners. Best identified by plain whitish underparts (no breast streaking) and relatively short straightish bill. In flight shows rusty patches in wings and at base of tail. The similar Common Miner, which is found in the same areas, but is less numerous than the Puna Miner has a creamy white (not rusty) tail base.

Fairly common, but nomadic in the Lake District region of Chile. Found in farmland with forest patches, hedges, and scattered tall trees; less of a forest bird than the smaller and duller Austral Parakeet, although the two species rarely if ever mix together. Feeds in trees and on the ground, often in noisy swarming flocks of 100s, even 1000s; tends to be wary and often flies high overhead, unlike Austral. As well as the unique long and curved bill, note the big red face patch, small red belly patch, and brighter blue wings than Austral.

Fairly small macaw with a bare white face that contrasts with its dark bill. It has a small red forehead, which can be quite difficult to see, a blue crown, and a red belly. The flight feathers are striking blue. Usually seen in pairs or small groups at forest edges, palm groves, and open woodlands. The flight call is a mellow “graaaa.”