Bolivian Warbling Finch

Strange brownish corvid restricted to eastern Iran. Pinkish-buff overall, with a slightly decurved bill and black-and-white wing coverts. Also note black tail and black “badge” on chest. Inhabits flat sandy deserts with interspersed vegetation, where it forages on the ground in pairs or small flocks. Gives a series of high squeaky notes comparable to the sound of fingernails on a blackboard, typically in the early morning.

No similar species in its range. Found in woodland, forest, matorral, and farmland with taller trees and hedges; often feeds on the ground. In some areas of central Chile nests in colonies in dirt bluffs, such as along roadsides; elsewhere usually nests in holes drilled in trees. Note the gray crown and plain buffy face (with dark whisker on male), big white rump patch, and yellow shafts to wing feathers (mainly visible in flight). Loud shrieking calls sometimes draw attention.

Attractive duck with distinctive triangular head; forehead slopes seamlessly into the long bill. Males are white-bodied with black chest, reddish-brown head, and red eye. Females are dull grayish-brown with unique head profile and dark brown eye. Breeds in lakes and marshes. Winters in any large body of water with submerged aquatic vegetation on which to feed. Dives frequently, searching for vegetation and invertebrates. Often gathers in large flocks in nonbreeding season.