Giant Laughingthrush

Desert-loving swallow of northwestern Peru; occasionally (perhaps seasonally) crosses over the border into southwestern Ecuador. The only swallow in its limited range with a white rump. Underparts are faintly streaked, though this is only evident from close range. Entirely white lower underparts help separate it from Blue-and-white Swallow. Usually seen in pairs or small groups circling over desolate habitat or perched atop a small bush or tree.

Adults are large and quite uniform dark brown eagles with very broad wings and short tails. Single white "comma" mark at the wrist of the underwing. Similar to the Lesser Spotted Eagle, which is smaller, paler, and more contrasting. Juveniles are more boldly patterned with numerous prominent dirty white spots on the back and upper wings. More tied to forests than Lesser Spotted Eagle, but still near rivers and bogs. Frequents humanmade habitats more often in winter, such as lakes, rubbish dumps, and reservoirs.

Small, drab forest bird. Note plain appearance and contrasting rufous belly. A widespread inhabitant of forest understory, but infrequently seen. Feeds on fruit and may associate with manakins at fruiting shrubs; also takes insects and follows mixed-species flocks. Very similar to Ochre-bellied Flycatcher, but is generally darker, lacks any pale edging on wings, and is less common in second-growth and disturbed habitats. Seldom heard except at leks.