Indonesian Serin
Chrysocorythus estherae
Rare and localized highland finch, restricted to upper montane forest and open scrubby and grassy habitats above the treeline. Generally not very obvious, often foraging quietly in dense growth, but flocks will sometimes betray their presence by flying overhead and giving a chorus of chittering twitter calls. Found only on high peaks in Sumatra, Java, and Sulawesi. Combination of thick conical bill, bright yellow wing-bars, and well-streaked underparts are unique within this species’ range and habitat. A currently undescribed population in north-central Sulawesi has reddish-orange in place of other populations’ yellow patches. Song is a dry, whirring buzz following a few husky notes.
Taxonomy
- Scientific name
- Chrysocorythus estherae
- Authority
- (Finsch, 1902)
- Order
- Passeriformes
- Family
- Fringillidae
- Genus
- Chrysocorythus
Range and habitat
- Migration
- Resident species
Conservation
- Population trend
- stable
Photos
Distribution
Bird Calls
Other Birds
White-collared Monarch
Symposiachrus vidua
A small pied monarch with a white collar, belly, and rump. Has a black hood and chest, black wings with a large white patch, and a black tail with white tips to outer corners. Found in primary forest and secondary growth up to at least 800 meters of elevation. Voice includes a thin wavering whistle and harsh scolding chattering.
Plain-crested Elaenia
Elaenia cristata
Medium-sized nondescript flycatcher that usually shows an erect crest without white markings. Very similar to others Elaenia species and is best identified by its song—a gravelly “jer-jéhjeh,” and its call—a soft “wee.” Also note its olive-green back, grayish breast, pale belly, and two wingbars. Inhabits open areas with scattered trees and savanna woodlands where it usually perches very upright on the top of shrubs or trees.
Dambo Cisticola
Cisticola dambo
Small cisticola that is pale and buffy below, and dark on the back. The crown, back of the neck, and back are heavily streaked. Note specific habitat preferences, which can help with identification: found in seepage zones of seasonally wet grasslands, alongside but in wetter situations than Wing-snapping Cisticolas, but avoiding the seasonally flooded habitat of Pale-crowned Cisticola. Very similar to Wing-snapping and Pale-crowned Cisticolas, but longer-tailed than both, and further distinguished from Pale-crowned in breeding plumage by the streaked crown. Also similar to Zitting and Desert Cisticolas, but has a different voice, and is darker on the back. Song consists of nasal notes, given from a low perch (termite mound or grass stem) or occasional brief display flight at grass top height. In contrast to other small cisticolas, it does not have a true aerial display flight.
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