Black-billed Seed-Finch

Distinctive within limited range near the border of Panama and Colombia. Typical jacamar shape with extremely long, pointed bill and an upright stance. Plumage brown overall with darker blue-black gloss on back and breast, off-white throat, and cinnamon belly. Pairs or small family groups are found at forest edges or clearings, often perched conspicuously and sallying out frequently to catch insects.

Small and rotund with intricate brown, black, and white patterning. Some striking variation in plumage across range. Most males, including those in the eastern U.S., have bold black and white head pattern and heavy white spotting on belly. In Mexico, males can be entirely cinnamon-colored below and have a fully black head; some might have a white eyebrow or a dark chest band. Females are more consistent throughout range: look for buffy throat and eyebrow. Pairs or small groups are found in scrubby fields and brushy woods. Usually on the ground, but occasionally perches in trees when singing. The only quail native to the eastern U.S., where populations are declining sharply. Listen for distinctive “bob-WHITE!” whistle.

Entirely green parakeet endemic to the subantarctic Antipodes Islands. The largest of New Zealand’s native parakeets. Males are larger than females. Common throughout their habitat and range, walking and climbing through vegetation when foraging. Will scavenge bird carcasses. An inquisitive bird, often approaching human visitors. Call is a distinctive deep “kok-kok-kok-kok” chatter. Shares its range with Reischek’s parakeet, but distinguishable by much larger size and lack of a red crown.