Gray-throated Warbler

Tiny, mouse-like bird of tepui forest understory. Entirely dark rufous-brown with a stubby tail. Found only in humid, mossy forest on tepui slopes, mostly above 1000 meters, where it is difficult to see, staying close to the ground as it crawls over roots, rocks, and large branches. Usually encountered alone and does not follow mixed-species flocks. Most easily detected by its extraordinary song: a variable series of short, pure whistles, rising and falling but usually ending with several notes on the same pitch; humanlike and easily imitated. May pop into view in response to imitation or playback, bobbing nervously before disappearing. Could be confused with Tepui Wren, but is darker brown overall and lacks buffy eyebrow.

Large sparrowlike bird; entirely olive with contrasting gray head and black face. Range does not overlap with other similar-looking sparrows and brushfinches. Often found in pairs or small family groups, usually scratching through leaf litter or low in a tangle in the forest understory. Loud song often heard at dawn. Sexes alike.

Glossy drongo of the eastern Visayas and Mindanao. Note the blue iridescence on the wings and neck, as well as the relatively weakly forked tail. Similar to Philippine Drongo-Cuckoo, but note present species’ much heavier bill. A vocal inhabitant of forested habitats, often foraging actively from exposed perches, sometimes in pairs or small groups. Vibrant song consists of clicks, whistles, warbles, harsh grating notes, and mimicry.