Pin-tailed Parrotfinch

Plain rufous bird with dark lores and long spiky tail. Sexes alike. Uncommon in the upper subtropics and temperate zone, mostly from 2,000–3,200 m. Could be confused with Rufous Wren but smaller and shier with spiky tail and plain unbarred wings. Pairs or small family groups are found low to the ground, often around patches of bamboo, where they can be tricky to see well. Listen for the single “pweep!” call.

A medium-sized swiftlet with a relatively long forked tail. Mostly brown with very slightly paler brown underparts and a more golden-brown rump and collar. Most common over rocky riverine valleys and humid forests. Similar to Atiu Swiftlet but is less contrastingly patterned, overall more uniformly brown, with a paler rump and a proportionally longer tail. Also extremely similar to Polynesian Swiftlet, but appears darker-faced and more obviously golden-collared. Vocally similar to Polynesian Swiftlet, with a voice consisting of insect-like buzzing and trilling.

Adult males are striking royal blue above with bright orange throat and breast and bright white belly. Females are paler overall; grayish with orange on breast and sides of neck, and white belly. Favors fields and open woods. Often in small groups. Frequently perches on wires or fence posts. Nests in cavities. Listen for its soft, chortling calls.