Somali Wheatear

A huge and extremely rare raptor of lowland and montane forests. One of the largest eagles in the world, and the national bird of the Philippines. Dark brown above with pale feather edges, white underparts, a streaked shaggy crest and back of the neck, powerful yellow feet, a very thick silver-gray bill with a black tip, and black around the eye. Unmistakable if seen well perched. In flight, much broader-winged than other raptors. Voice is a descending, whistled “weeuuuu!” repeated at intervals.

A small, dark songster of montane forest floor and undergrowth. Note dark brown body with a fairly bold white eyebrow. Unlike most shortwings, there is little difference between male and female plumages, though eyebrow may be less conspicuous on females. Furtive and difficult to see well; forages on the ground of various types of forest, including bamboo, fern, and mossy forest. Song a short phrase starting with a high-pitched clear whistle, followed by a jumbled slightly flutey note. Call a relatively low, knocking wooden rattle.

Black-and-white seabird with a thick and blunt bill. Breeds in colonies on rocky islands; winters on the ocean. Black above and white below with thin white line in front of eye. In winter, white throat wraps up behind eye, but pattern is less crisp than on Common Murre. Similar to other murres but note different bill shape and longer tail that is sometimes held up. Found singly or in flocks. Sometimes seen from shore in large numbers following the passage of a winter storm. Frequently dives underwater searching for fish.