Brown-throated Fulvetta

A very small nondescript sunbird with a short orange-based bill that curves uniformly along its length; easily mistaken for females of other sunbirds. The only features on the olive upperparts are indistinct paler eyebrows and lines running under the eyes, and yellow edging to the wings. Although often hidden, the male has yellow or whitish (not red) tufts at the shoulders. Singles are local and inconspicuous at the edges of lowland and riverine forest, sometimes entering secondary growth; it joins mixed-flocks and is frequently attracted to epiphytes in mossy clumps. Calls a high-pitched “tseeep” and trills. Little Green and Fraser’s sunbirds are similar to Bates’s but brighter, with straighter bills and more distinct yellowish eye-rings; Ursula’s Sunbird has a long decurved bill and grayish face and underparts.

A brightly colored songbird with a bright golden belly, a black hood and chest band, and an olive upperside and wings. Throat is a golden yellow. Population on Vella Lavella and Ranongga is mostly black with a golden throat, belly, and undertail. Birds on the Russell Islands are entirely golden, brighter below. Some birds on Guadalcanal are entirely cinnamon with a brownish “shawl” and a buffy belly. Mostly inhabits primary forest, but wanders into gardens and village edges. Voice includes a mix of flute-like whistles and squeaks with loud far-carrying whipcrack notes repeated.

Small gray crane of open expansive habitats. Adult is an elegantly smooth shade of gray with a black neck, fiery eyes, and pure white plumes extending out from behind the eyes. Juvenile is similar but paler overall and with shorter plumes. Dark wingtips, prominent while the bird is in flight, may cause confusion with Gray Heron, but note overall shape and straight-necked flying posture (heron typically tucks neck in). Small size distinguishes this species from other cranes. Inhabits fields, deserts, steppes, and plains with water in general vicinity. May visit drier habitat in winter. Migrates in large, vocal flocks.