Iphis Monarch

Fairly large, long-tailed dark gray parrot. Found locally in the granitic Seychelles, mainly on the island of Praslin. Uses forested habitats with a mix of native and introduced tree species. Often seen in flight, sometimes in small, loose flocks. Generally very vocal, sometimes calling even at night. Loud calls consist mainly of musical whistles. Can easily be mistaken for a raptor in flight, but has all-black plumage unlike any raptor in range.

Small slender antbird, found in pairs skulking through low tangles in forest and edges. Male is very dark black with obvious white fringes on shoulder. Female similar to male but gray instead of black and shows white streaks on throat. Could be confused with Dot-winged Antwren, which is less skulky and has larger white spots on wing and tail; also note very different female plumage. Usually heard more often than seen; listen for harsh nasal song emanating from from the undergrowth: “reh-er, reh-er, reh-er.”

Large terrestrial dove found in a variety of habitats including forest edges, dense secondary growth, and mature forest understory. Skulking and easy to overlook, but can often be seen walking on quiet trails early and late in the day. In flight, white tips on outer tail feathers are often visible, like in similar White-tipped Dove, but with less extensive white. Also distinguished from that species by red, not blue skin around eye, and brighter more contrasting gray forehead. Frequently heard song is a mournful “hoop,” repeated every 5–10 seconds, particularly in the morning.