Bismarck Crow

Corvus insularis

A medium-sized entirely black crow with a large, often pale-tipped bill and a pale bluish eye. Common in most open forest and forest-edge habitats. Often seen around towns. Voice consists of short, nasal cawing notes.

Taxonomy

Scientific name
Corvus insularis
Authority
Heinroth, 1903
Order
Passeriformes
Family
Corvidae
Genus
Corvus

Range and habitat

Migration
Resident species

Conservation

Population trend
unknown

Photos

Distribution

Other Birds

Harlequin Duck

Harlequin Duck

Histrionicus histrionicus

Fairly small, boldly patterned diving duck that lives a seemingly dangerous life near fast-moving water and jagged rocks. Male is striking and unmistakable. Female is dark brown with small white patches on face; compare with female scoters but note smaller size and smaller bill of Harlequin. In summer, almost invariably seen in pairs on rocky streams where they breed. Gathers in small flocks on rocky coastlines in winter. Feeds on insects, fish, and aquatic invertebrates. Frequently dives underwater. Vocalizations are cute, high-pitched squeaks. In North America, more numerous in the west than in the east; also occurs in eastern Asia and Iceland.

Plumbeous Ibis

Plumbeous Ibis

Theristicus caerulescens

Distinctive gray ibis with a white forehead and bushy crest. Favors marshes, rice fields, and ponds, but also occurs in grassland, pastures, and savanna. Eats insects, snails, and fish. Mostly seen singly or in pairs. Very vocal, especially at dawn, giving a fast series of cackling notes: "kah-kah-kah-kah-kah-kah-kah."

New Zealand Bellbird

New Zealand Bellbird

Anthornis melanura

A medium-sized nectar feeder endemic to New Zealand. Note yellowish-green plumage, blackish wings and tail, and red eyes. Male has purple tints on his head. Female browner, with a bluish gloss on the head. Juveniles show a clear yellowish cheek stripe. Widespread in the North and South Islands of New Zealand. Favors native and exotic forest, scrub, and urban parks and gardens. Listen for its melodious song consisting of a series of tuneful notes. Alarm call is a harsh, rapidly repeated “yeng.” Distinguished from European Greenfinch by lack of a pale, conical bill and larger size. Listen for lack of grunts, wheezes, and clicks to distinguish song from that of Tui.

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