Thick-billed Spiderhunter

The common and widespread bowerbird of montane forests. Fairly large, stocky brown like other closely-related species, but the male has a long, flowing, orange crest from the back of its head. The male builds a “Maypole” bower of sticks from a central pole and has a circular mossy arena at the base. Similar to the Streaked Bowerbird, but MacGregor's Bowerbird is found higher up and is larger and unstreaked. Call, a loud rasping. Various whistles and other sounds made at the bower, including mimicry.

Stocky, brown heron found in extensive reedbeds; typically very secretive. Seen mainly as single birds in flight, especially early and late in the day. Stealthy and easily overlooked; cryptic plumage blends well with reeds. Note tawny-brown face and neck, blackish cap, streaked upperparts. Bizarre "booming" song often reveals presence. Compare to juvenile Black-crowned Night-Heron, which has pale-spotted upperparts and is often seen in trees (bitterns usually on or near the ground).

Small unobtrusive tinamou, which can be locally common in grasslands, savanna, and agricultural areas. Striking red bill and legs are its most notable features, otherwise largely gray with a brown back and scalloped vent. Similar Tataupa Tinamou has purple legs. The song is a long, descending trill of “trii” notes that finishes with a low “truuu truuu truuu” which can be heard all day. Sometimes just the last notes are sung.