Black-cowled Saltator

Scarce and local large green parrot of tropical lowland savannas and semiopen areas with forest patches and big trees (but often seen in cages). Like many parrots, usually seen in pairs, not mixing with other species. The head of Mexican birds has extensive yellow (less so on immatures) and the bill is pale. Birds in Belize and Honduras have less yellow on the head. This species is often trapped for the pet trade, which means it has been eliminated from much of its historic range.

Nondescript warbler, generally olive-colored overall, but different populations vary from grayer to brighter yellow. Overall very plain and unmarked, but note short darkish line through eye and thin pale eye arcs. Forages for insects in scrubby areas, woodland edge, and thickets. Namesake orange crown is very difficult to see, and usually only a faint wash at best. More common in western North America, from Alaska to Mexico, where populations are brighter yellow-green. Birds in eastern North America are scarcer and drabber, often with a more contrasting grayish head. Bright yellow undertail coverts help separate Orange-crowned from the similarly drab Tennessee Warbler.

Large raptor. Appears dark from a distance. Up close, dark brown above with bare red head. In flight, undersides of wings are two-toned; lighter on the entire trailing edge of the wing, opposed to just wingtips on Black Vulture. Wings are held slightly raised when soaring, making a "V" when seen head-on. Tends to wobble in flight. Wingbeats slower and deeper than Black Vulture. Glides relatively low while sniffing for carrion, or riding thermals to higher vantage points. Also huddles around roadkill or dumpsters.