Amazonian Plain-Xenops

Small finch-like bird of lowland rainforest. Male is glossy navy blue with a deep red-orange belly, fairly distinctive in its range; female is golden with gray wash on the head, back, and belly, and orange-red undertail coverts. Females similar to females of Orange-bellied Euphonia, but usually have deeper orange or red undertail coverts (not yellow). Found in humid forests, where often one of the most common euphonias. Frequently heard giving a rapid, deep chatter “chree-chree-chree-chree.”

A newly described species endemic (at least as a breeder) to a few pockets of northern China. Essentially visually identical to Red-flanked Bluetail: adult male is sky-blue above and pale below, with orange sides and a small white eyebrow. Female and juvenile are more subdued, but still have the rufous flanks and blue tail. Breeds in humid montane forest, often favoring mossy, damp areas. Wintering range and habits essentially unknown, but probably overlap those of Red-flanked Bluetail. Can be hyperactive, moving quickly across the forest floor, stopping to flick the tail downwards. Best identified by range and distinctive song: a short, descending sweet yet burry phrase repeated regularly, very different from the song of Red-flanked Bluetail. Also has a variety of calls that are less distinctive, including a rising “sweet”, a descending “seet”, and a series of low, dry notes.

Scintillating hummingbird of the high Andes of Colombia and far northern Ecuador (it does not reach the Quito area). Male is dark glittering-green (with brighter rump and vent) and has inconspicuous black leg puffs. Female is brighter green with small white leg puffs, blue forehead, and white scaling on throat and breast. Typically seen feeding at the edge of elfin forest or in scrubby ravines.