Gorgeous Sunbird
Cinnyris melanogastrus
A slim, long-billed sunbird in which breeding males and females are very different. Breeding males are mostly dark green with a red-and-yellow band across the underparts, and a black belly. Females are plain, with gray-brown upperparts and white underparts tinged with yellow. Found in a wide variety of open habitats including savanna, woodland, and gardens. Similar to Black-bellied Sunbird, but breeding males are separated by the more extensive yellow in their belly band, and females by their reduced streaking below. Little or no range overlap with Beautiful Sunbird, but if in doubt the black belly of breeding male Gorgeous Sunbird will identify it. The common call is a quiet chipping, and the song is a high-pitched jumble typical of sunbirds.
Taxonomy
- Scientific name
- Cinnyris melanogastrus
- Order
- Passeriformes
- Family
- Nectariniidae
- Genus
- Cinnyris
Photos
Distribution
Bird Calls
Other Birds
South Island Saddleback
Philesturnus carunculatus
A medium-sized songbird endemic to New Zealand, confined to predator-free offshore islands and South Island mainland sanctuaries. Glossy black plumage with distinct chestnut saddle across the back, which gives the bird its name. Note the bright reddish-orange wattles on either side of the bill. Juveniles have smaller wattles and are chocolate brown for their first year. Listen for distinct calls resembling a blaring “cheeet ta-chet ta-chet ta-chet” sound. Constantly moves noisily as it restlessly forages on the floor and through the canopy. Flicks over leaves and digs into rotting logs with its strong bill in search of invertebrates. Distinguished from Eurasian Blackbird by chestnut saddle and wattles.
Galapagos Flycatcher
Myiarchus magnirostris
Drab but entertaining flycatcher endemic to Galápagos. Plumage is largely brownish-gray with a yellow belly, pale gray throat, and white wingbars; head has a rusty tinge in fresh plumage. Also note stout bill. The only member of its genus found in Galápagos, greatly simplifying ID. Completely fearless of people. Energetically chases insects from the ground or from elevated perches, such as bushes, cacti, spotting scopes, and surprised tourists.
Handsome Spurfowl
Pternistis nobilis
Large, chunky brown francolin with a red bill and bare red skin around the eye. Found in montane forest, forest edge, and bamboo. Often in pairs. Reclusive, but will emerge onto roads and paths, especially early and late in the day. The call alternates lower “kroo” notes with higher “kreek” notes. Also gives simpler raspy single notes and series. Similar to Scaly Francolin, but larger and richer brown, with red bare skin around the eye.
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