Fire-maned Bowerbird

A tiny brown flycatcher with an orange throat, a conspicuous orange mark between bill and eyes, a chestnut tail, and a white belly. Inhabits dense understory of montane forest within its small range in southwest Sulawesi. Differs from female Snowy-browed Flycatcher in its chestnut tail and brighter, clean-cut throat patch. Separated from female Rufous-throated Flycatcher by brown head and nape and larger orange patch between bill and eye. Song comprises several high-pitched whistles, “too-tee-too”, sometimes interspersed with or followed by a short rattle. Also gives dry, rattling “chep” calls.

Fairly common, but often retiring, in tropical lowlands of both drier and more humid areas. Occurs across much of South America, from Colombia to Argentina. Can be found from sea level to around 1,500 m elevation. Favors forest edge, second growth thickets, hedges, and tangles, especially with morning glory flowers, which it munches quietly. Note plain bluish-gray coloration with warm tawny vent and short white eyebrow. Immature looks slightly different, with a yellowish wash to the face and upperparts. Listen for sweet song with slurred whistles.

Dark olive-green upland specialist, restricted to Borneo’s central highlands, where it inhabits mossy forest, stunted growth, and even pockets of sparse growth above the treeline; one of the most common species at the highest elevations. Black eye patch and slender red bill are unique. Forages at all levels, often in pairs or small flocks. Song is a series of pleasantly melodic fluty whistles, often heard in the early morning; gives various tweeting, chirring calls.