White-browed Purpletuft

Small pale parrot of inland Australia woodlands, often found in mulga and acacia scrubland. Gray-brown scaly upperparts set off by unique pastel pink underparts and blue underwing and rump. In flight, note also the blue outer upperwing (primary flight feathers and their coverts). Often observed coming to drink: flocks usually visit a favorite water hole at dawn and dusk. Feeds on the ground in small groups but sometimes in large flocks of 50 or more birds. Calls include piercing, high-pitched whistles and chattering.

Often seen swirling in flocks above mountain passes, scrubby alpine forests, and highland meadows, this large thrush is unlike any other. Adult male is a deep, almost eye-searing blue with jet-black wings. Females and immatures are brown with white streaks all over the head and underparts and weak white bars on the wings. Long-billed and sharp-winged profile, along with flocking behavior, is more reminiscent of starlings than thrushes.

Medium-sized francolin with a mostly gray body, rufous head, and white throat. Found locally on the ground in grassy habitats including savanna, montane grassland, and woodland. Usually in pairs or small groups. Typical vocalization is a duet of “chur-it-cheer” phrases and a repeated single note. Somewhat similar to Red-winged Francolin, but duller, without a strongly marked face or heavily striped breast.