Greater Antillean Bullfinch

Tiny ‘cute’ flycatcher found in fairly open but shady understory of tropical lowland forest, mainly in humid areas. Appearance is distinctive, with brownish upperparts, striking face pattern, and stubby tail. Can be quite common but easily overlooked. Usually draws attention by its bright, nasal chi-dik or chi-di-dik call, usually given just after a short flight, after which it sits still and is frustratingly difficult to see.

A large, robust cuckoo with a black body and rufous wings. The head is pure black in breeding plumage and streaked white in non-breeding plumage. Found in a wide variety of habitats, including forest, scrub, plantations, savannah, and marsh. Generally skulks in thick vegetation, anywhere from the ground to high in the canopy, though will sometimes sing from an exposed perch. “Water bottle” song is a beautiful descending series of “boop” notes. Call is a long, dry rattle. Size, shape, and dark coloration make it distinctive within its range. 

Males are mostly pinkish-red, and females have a brown back, a gray head, and pinkish underparts. Both sexes have a dark bill with a pinkish area at the base, an extensive black belly, and no white spots on the underparts. Found along forest edge and in overgrown cultivation, lush savanna, and scrub. Usually in pairs or small groups, sometimes mixed with other waxbills. Similar to several other firefinches, but separated by the lack of white spots below. Male further separated from similar species by the all-red head. The song is a series of low whistles, and the calls include “chet” notes and a short trill.