Pale-throated Pampa-Finch

A fairly small bird of lowland and foothill forest and edge; endemic to Luzon, though lumped with Visayan Babbler under “Black-crowned Babbler” by some taxonomies. Has a gray back and cheek with fine pale streaks, dark wings and tail with white outer tail feathers, white underparts, a pale rufous throat, and a black crown. Note the slender black bill. Often joins mixed-species flocks and sometimes hangs upside down while feeding. Somewhat similar to Green-backed Whistler, especially from below, but smaller, with a pale rufous throat and a black crown. Voice includes a medium-pitched “poo piuu!” with the second note downslurred.

A brightly colored songbird with a bright golden belly, a black hood and chest band, and an olive upperside and wings. Throat is a golden yellow. Population on Vella Lavella and Ranongga is mostly black with a golden throat, belly, and undertail. Birds on the Russell Islands are entirely golden, brighter below. Some birds on Guadalcanal are entirely cinnamon with a brownish “shawl” and a buffy belly. Mostly inhabits primary forest, but wanders into gardens and village edges. Voice includes a mix of flute-like whistles and squeaks with loud far-carrying whipcrack notes repeated.

A delicate-looking long-tailed shrike with striking black-and-white plumage. The male has a rich rusty breast and sides. Female like male but duller, with juvenile grayer and more barred on the upperparts and sides. Often pumps long tail. Forages mainly on arthropods, which it locates from prominent perches. Breeds in a range of wooded habitats, from Mediterranean scrub to open forests and overgrown orchards. During migration, can be seen in various habitats, including gardens and arid zones. Often favors more densely vegetated habitats than other shrikes. Gives a dry “tchrtchrtchr.”