Mistletoe Tyrannulet

Breeding males are mostly black with a long tail. Varies geographically, with northern birds having a shorter tail and mainly orange shoulder patch, while southern birds have a longer tail and a yellow-and-orange shoulder patch. Females and non-breeding males are streaky and brown, though males retain their colorful shoulder. Breeds in marsh habitats, and uses a variety of open habitats in non-breeding season. Vocalizations include low rasps and twittering and sizzling calls. Northern breeding males similar to Fan-tailed Widowbird, but longer-tailed. Female can be confused with several other species, but is usually identified by association with orange-shouldered males.

Warm brown above and white below with a faint cinnamon wash near the “shoulders” that give it a “vested” appearance. Can be similar to Negros Jungle-Flycatcher, which is generally found at higher altitudes. Look for a combination of longer, smaller-headed profile, and incomplete, diffuse breast band in present species. Found from the central Philippines south to islands off Borneo’s northeastern coast, where it inhabits lowland to submontane forests. Frequently moves with mixed flocks, often in lower levels of forest, but can be found up into the canopy. Gives high, thin, clean-sounding whistles as well as various warbled and whistled notes.

Beautiful tanager restricted to Colombia’s western Andes. It is one of the country’s most sought-after endemic birds due to its unique plumage and scarcity. Yellow head crescent, mustache, and breast patch stand out conspicuously against its otherwise black, olive, and blue color pattern. Females and young birds are duller than adult males. Inhabits wet cloud forest, and sometimes joins mixed species flocks. Often perches on an exposed branch, repeatedly giving a burst of sharp notes that rises and then falls.