Green-backed Tailorbird

A compact raptor endemic to New Zealand, with streaky cream-and-brown breast and reddish-brown undertail. In flight, note rapid beating of long pointed wings, and long rounded tail shape while gliding. Females are much larger than males. Widely distributed throughout New Zealand in native and exotic forest, as well as in tussock grassland and farmland. Will aggressively dive-bomb intruders close to nesting sites. Distinctive “kek-kek-kek” call given during attacks. Similar to Swamp Harrier but smaller; rarely feeds on road kill, actively chases prey, and glides with wings set flat rather than a shallow “V” shape like the Swamp Harrier.

The raven of dry grasslands and desert scrub from the southwestern U.S. to central Mexico. Very similar to Common Raven, and sometimes best left unidentified. Chihuahuan is slightly smaller and more compact than Common, and tends to be found in more open habitats at lower elevations, not in mountains or forests (although Common can be found in low grasslands, too). Neck feathers are white at the base on Chihuahuan, instead of gray. Occurs in pairs or flocks, sometimes quite large, especially in winter. Gives a rather dry, crow-like squawk.

Large brown-backed thrush with heavy spotting below and white wingbars. It is a rare and localized endangered species, with most records coming from a few coastal and montane forest sites. Usually on or near the ground. The song is a languid, chatty series of whistles. The call is a quiet, thin, rising whistle. Similar to Groundscraper Thrush, but easily separated by forest habitat, more horizontal posture, and white wingbars.