Rufous-winged Tanager

A small brown and reddish waxbill with a blue-gray bill, a mostly gray head, and black under the tail. There are a few white spots along the shoulder. Found in dry, rocky habitat with grass and bushes. Usually in pairs or small groups. Very similar to African Firefinch, but separated by range and habitat. Also similar to Black-bellied Firefinch, but has less extensive black on the belly, and males further separated by the gray patch on the head. Calls include soft “teew” whistles, “tep” notes, and “pit-pit-pit” calls. The song is a series of identical whistled notes. 

An enormous, grayish owl with dark stripes framing the face. It has a pale,-horn-colored beak and large, dark eyes that are set off by weird and diagnostic fleshy-pink eyelids. Occurs from arid savanna to mesic woodland to riverine forest; prefers areas with some tall trees for breeding and roosting. Hunts medium-sized mammals; has been known to kill competitors, such as Pel’s Fishing-Owl. Its call, a deep guttural grunting “unngh-unngh”, is diagnostic.

An active and social small bird of broadleaf and mixed forests, usually in hilly regions. Thin, rather turnip-like crest is often held vertically. Gray with a black head marked by bright white cheek patches. May be confused with Coal Tit, but has a less wispy crest, lacks wingbars, and averages darker and more contrasting overall. Gives high thin calls, often heard as a flock whizzes overhead.