Palau Flycatcher

Tiny and active sunbird of forest edges, parks, and gardens; ranges from Sulawesi east to the northern Moluccas, New Guinea, and northeastern Australia. Both sexes have a plain olive back, a yellow belly, and white tail edges that are flared out in flight. The male flashes an iridescent blue throat while the female has a yellow throat and eyebrow. In parts of range, female Sahul may be confused with female Black Sunbird; note that species’ unmarked gray head and shorter, less curved bill. Gives a buzzy, twittering song, as well as a rising “dwee”, a familiar sound even in cities. Formerly grouped with other, closely related species under “Olive-backed Sunbird.”

A brightly colored bird with various shades of blue on the wings, tails, and belly that are often more prominent in flight. Similar to Indian Roller but has a purple-blue breast, a darker olive back, and is generally darker blue. Generally silent, but more vocal in breeding season with harsh calls. Prefers open areas, including agricultural landscapes, sitting on exposed perches including electric wires, occasionally pumping its tail slowly. Generally resident.

Uncommon but striking; a rather chunky bird of humid forests in tropical lowlands. Usually seen as singles or pairs, perched quietly in forest canopy, often on a snag in the open. Note the heavy black bill, used to dispatch large insects such as cicadas, and bold black-and-white plumage with a broad, black breast band.