Palau Kingfisher

Small screech-owl restricted to dry forests of western Ecuador and northwestern Peru. Note yellow eyes, small ear tufts, and vertical stripes on underparts. Overall plumage coloration ranges from brown to bright cinnamon. Very similar in plumage to several other screech-owls, and best identified by range, habitat, and voice. Typical song is a fast, gargling trill; also gives soft yaps.

Small, compact grebe with thin pointed bill. Breeding adults have long golden tuft behind red eye. Also look for rich chestnut neck and body contrasting with darker back. In winter, grayish overall with a black cap and contrasting white cheek. Red eye visible at close range. Breeds on marshy ponds; during migration and winter, often seen on large lakes, bays, and open ocean. Compare with Eared Grebe, especially in winter. Horned is thicker-necked and larger-headed. Also note Horned's flatter crown, white cheek contrasting with dark cap, and pale tip on bill.

A perky, upright wren restricted to alpine regions in the South Island of New Zealand. Has a very short tail and rounded wings, but distinctive long legs and toes. Male is a mossy green above and pale gray below, with noticeable yellow flanks and a creamy eyebrow. Female has duller plumage. Stance is often erect; constantly bobs up and down, flicking its wings, before hopping and running. Flies very short distances. Seen out in the open in rocky boulder fields, hence its common New Zealand name of “rock wren.” Gives a high-pitched three-note call which travels well in the open alpine terrain. Pairs will sometimes duet.