Tawny-rumped Tyrannulet

One of New Zealand’s best-known small endemic songbirds. Widespread throughout New Zealand in a variety of habitats, including urban parks and gardens. Uniquely characterized by a long white and black tail which it constantly flicks around and fans, and which is often the first thing visible. Will often approach people closely. Constantly on the move, hawking for insects in acrobatic flight. Uncommon all-black morph is present on the South Island and occasionally seen on the North Island. Listen for frequent vocal sounds consisting of a regular “cheep” or a squeaky “tweeta-tweeta-tweeta.”

Unobtrusive and easily overlooked flycatcher of highlands in Central America; recently found in northern Chiapas. Occurs mainly at forest edge and in overgrown scrubby areas with trees and fruiting bushes. Perches quietly and fairly upright, sallying out to pluck berries. Note the overall drab plumage, rounded head (lacks distinct crest of larger and bulkier Yellow-bellied Elaenia), whitish eyering, and big whitish edges to the tertials.

Very large, spectacular swift of highlands in west Mexico, also descending locally to foothills and lowlands. Often in flocks, at times of hundreds, especially around waterfalls and other roosting sites. Flight fast and strong, often soaring in kettles with wings spread in paddlelike bulges. Note the very large size, thick white nape band (often visible in a side view), and slightly notched tail (tip squared when ​tail is spread). Varied screaming and chattering calls can suggest parakeets.