Samoan Triller

Distinctive, rather chunky plover of Patagonian coasts, grassy steppe, and lakeshores with stony and muddy substrates. Found singly or in small groups, sometimes associating with other shorebirds such as migrant Baird’s and White-rumped Sandpipers. Breeding plumage (male averages brighter) has a bright rusty cap, double black breast bands (upper band often incomplete in Falklands). Immature and nonbreeding birds are duller, but still have distinctive double brown breast bands.

A large, slender lark with a long, thin decurved bill and long legs. Features can be variable, but generally the species has rufous upperparts, grayish coloration on the back of the neck, and a lightly streaked chest. As the similar-looking long-billed larks have separate ranges, location is a key factor in identification. This species strides purposefully through dry open shrubland, running quickly before pausing to dig in soil or pick at a shrub for invertebrate prey, seeds, or fruit. In a characteristic display the male flies low to the ground before flying directly up 10 to 15 meters, and then closing its wings and plummeting toward the ground while typically emitting a two-note “hit-seeeoooouuu” whistle, the second note descending. This call and similar ones can also be given from the ground. Most larks in the same range are smaller and more compact, with smaller bills and shorter legs.

Drab, undistinguished-looking bulbul. Predominantly gray-brown with a white throat and slight rufous tones on the wings and tail. Pale eye and unmarked head distinguish it from other plain brownish bulbuls within its range. Tends to be seen solitarily or in pairs but will occasionally join mixed flocks or forage in larger groups at fruiting trees. Unmusical; gives a loud, ringing nasal note, often repetitively.