Tawny Straightbill

Medium-sized open country flycatcher of Chaco woodland and flooded grasslands in N Argentina, W Paraguay, and SE Bolivia. Male from other Knipolegus by, in male, all dark wingsand grayish (as opposed to deep black) plumage. Female told from other female Knipolegus by dull, indistinct streaks on underparts, brown cap, rufous rump, and dull reddish iris. Prefers exposed perches in open thorn forest, roadsides, agricultural lands, and towns.

Large black-and-white wagtail with an intricately and uniquely striped head pattern. Wings and outer tail feathers flash brightly in flight. Adult male is black-backed, while the female and immature have a duller gray-brown back. Simple song is a compilation of a few high phrases of whistles and twitters. Call is harsh and buzzy. Found only around flowing lowland rivers with braided rocky sections, specifically a unique composite of gravel and sand bars with low vegetation and boulders.

This subtly handsome finch is unique in its range; warm sandy brown with bright pink and silver flashes in the wings. Sexes are similar, but the male boasts a restricted black mask extending from the front of the eye to the base of the stout charcoal-black bill, which the female lacks. Not restricted to deserts but generally does prefer dry, open areas in middle to high altitude regions. Frequents villages, towns, and even cities. Gives a tumbling series of random-sounding notes, usually with a rather hoarse, buzzy quality. Calls include “chip” and “chink” notes and buzzy wheezes.