Scaly-breasted Cupwing

A small brown and reddish waxbill with a blue-gray and black bill, and black under the tail. There are a few white spots along the shoulder. Found mainly in dry, rocky habitat with grass and bushes, but also ventures into savanna and galley forest habitats during the dry season. Usually in pairs or small groups. Very similar to African Firefinch, but has a more two-toned bill, is brighter overall, and has a more reddish back in both sexes. Also similar to Black-bellied Firefinch, but has less extensive black on the belly, and males are further separated by the gray patch on top of their head. Vocalizations include soft “teew” whistles, a descending trill, “tep” notes, and “pit-pit-pit” calls. 

Fairly large, bright green parrot of humid tropical lowlands. Fairly common. Found in forest, edge, and semiopen areas with scattered tall trees and forest patches. Most often seen flying overhead early and late in the day, often fairly high and usually in pairs or loose groups made up of pairs. Best field mark is the contrasting yellow cheek patch; also note red forehead. Like other parrots in the same genus, in flight shows a red patch on the flight feathers.

A gregarious small seed-eating bird of pine forests and forest openings that also visits agricultural areas near dry scrubby forests. The male is unique in appearance with green upperparts, yellow underparts, a black head, and a thick pale bill. Females of this species resemble female and nonbreeding Village Weavers, but the Village Weavers are substantially larger, have a distinct pale eyebrow, a dark bill and pink legs. Calls include a “jut-jut,” a shrill and buzzy “zzhhreeeee,” and a buzzy insect-like “zzzzzzzzzt” that is upward inflected.