Great Swallow-tailed Swift

Long-tailed and thick-billed relative of the laughingthrushes, found only in foothill and lower montane forests on Java. Hops about in the upper levels of the forest, often in small single-species groups, as well as mixed flocks. When seen from below, note the bright white throat, black face, pale yellowish belly, and dark undertail with white-tipped feathers. If seen at a level angle, note rust-and-white striped back and sides. Fast, repetitive, up-and-down song is often given by multiple birds at once.

Large, plump finch of the boreal forest. Adult males are pink overall with two white wingbars and pale gray highlights. Immature males and females are not so bright but still subtly pretty; gray body with olive, yellow, or burnt-orange head and rump. Stubby bill with rounded edges. Song consists of rich, mellow warbles; listen for musical flight calls. Breeds in open coniferous forests. Winters in a variety of wooded habitats, especially around fruiting trees including crabapple and mountain ash. Often extremely tame, allowing close approach.

The largest nuthatch in the world, about the size of a bulbul. Coloration similar to many other nuthatches: gray above and white below, with a thick black line through the eye. Picky in its habitat preferences and as a result generally uncommon or absent through much of its range; requires extensive stands of mature tall pines in foothills and montane regions. Can be quite loud, giving a hoarse chatter reminiscent of a corvid; also gives a clipped fluty whistle.