Golden-fronted Redstart

Myioborus ornatus

This unique warbler is gray above and yellow below. Some populations have an entirely yellow face, while others have a white face that contrasts with the bright yellow crown. Like other redstarts in the Neotropics, the white tail flashes are obvious. Unmistakable in its limited range in Colombia and extreme western Venezuela. Pairs or small groups are fairly common in the upper subtropical and temperate zones in the Andes, from around 2,400-3,400m. They forage at all levels of forest and edge, often following mixed-species flocks.

Taxonomy

Scientific name
Myioborus ornatus
Authority
(Boissonneau, 1840)
Order
Passeriformes
Family
Parulidae
Genus
Myioborus

Range and habitat

Migration
Resident species

Conservation

Population trend
stable

Photos

Distribution

Bird Calls

Other Birds

Yellow-bellied Warbler

Yellow-bellied Warbler

Abroscopus superciliaris

Small and modestly bright warbler of lowland to submontane forests, usually seen moving around quickly in the undergrowth. Not especially eye-catching, but combination of olive-green upper parts, bright yellow belly, and white eyebrow and throat are unique within its range. Usually seen in small flocks, often with other species. Song is a short, pretty phrase of tinkling high whistles, the highest note often at the end.

Giant Nuthatch

Giant Nuthatch

Sitta magna

The largest nuthatch in the world, about the size of a bulbul. Coloration similar to many other nuthatches: gray above and white below, with a thick black line through the eye. Picky in its habitat preferences and as a result generally uncommon or absent through much of its range; requires extensive stands of mature tall pines in foothills and montane regions. Can be quite loud, giving a hoarse chatter reminiscent of a corvid; also gives a clipped fluty whistle.

Village Weaver

Village Weaver

Ploceus cucullatus

A gregarious species of open habitats, especially weedy and agricultural areas; occurs in flocks of tens to hundreds. Typically one of the most common weaver species where it occurs, but care should be taken to separate it from rarer species, especially when in nonbreeding plumage. Note the red eyes, hefty bill, and relatively large size. Where introduced in the Caribbean, the bill shape and eye color separate breeding male weavers from oriole species. Village Weavers in other plumages are distinguished from the Northern Red Bishop by their larger size, larger bill, and eye color. Constructs compact hanging woven nests, often in large colonies in or near towns. Like most weavers, has a remarkable song made up of a jumble of squeaky notes followed by a drawn out sizzling buzz. Calls include a sharp “dzip” and “chut” or “chit” given singly or in series. Flocks create a loud burbling chatter.

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