Eastern Yellow-billed Hornbill

A compact raptor endemic to New Zealand, with streaky cream-and-brown breast and reddish-brown undertail. In flight, note rapid beating of long pointed wings, and long rounded tail shape while gliding. Females are much larger than males. Widely distributed throughout New Zealand in native and exotic forest, as well as in tussock grassland and farmland. Will aggressively dive-bomb intruders close to nesting sites. Distinctive “kek-kek-kek” call given during attacks. Similar to Swamp Harrier but smaller; rarely feeds on road kill, actively chases prey, and glides with wings set flat rather than a shallow “V” shape like the Swamp Harrier.

Unusual francolin that is small and very dark, with a thick tail that is usually cocked up. A good view reveals red legs, red bare skin around the eye, and bright white markings on the breast and neck. Found very locally on the ground in rainforest. Usually in pairs or small groups. The distinctive vocalization is a series of loud “chu-wheet” notes that rises and becomes more emphatic, usually given as a duet by a pair. Similar to Latham’s Francolin, but separated by the partly red bill, red bare facial skin, and red rather than yellow legs. Somewhat similar to Scaly Francolin, but smaller, with red bare facial skin and bright white markings below. 

Forest laughingthrush of montane and submontane areas. Slate-gray head and chest, chestnut wings and tail. Pale blue eyering gives it a startled appearance. Forages close to or on the ground, noisily flipping leaf litter. Also visits campsites and trailheads like Chestnut-hooded Laughingthrush, but Sunda is comparatively shier. Raucous song starts off with a few distinct hooting notes and promptly descends into a jumble of chaotic noise, often giving away its presence in the undergrowth. Also gives squeaky yelps, quieter “chup” notes, and dry rattles.