Western Olivaceous Flatbill

Small sturdy plover with pink legs and red eyering. Adult has black hood that extends down onto the chin. Endemic to southern Australia where it typically inhabits sandy ocean beaches, nesting just above the high tide mark. In western Australia it is also found on saline lakes.

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.

Massive pale brown owl with plump, rounded ear tufts. An endangered species, found in mature boreal forests near streams where there are tree cavities suitable for nesting. Preys mostly on fish. Distinguished from Eurasian Eagle-Owl by absence of broad black streaks on breast and rounder, thicker ear tufts that are not held erect. Deep, resonant song, given in duet by pair. Duet consists of three notes, with the first two notes from a male and a third from a female. The lower-pitched female note partially overlaps with the second male note.