Southern Martin

Small round songbird of dense mangrove areas, particularly the large stilt-rooted mangroves. White below, dark gray above, with blackish wings and white patches on sides of black tail. Distinctive species, much more rotund than other white-chinned bird species in this habitat (e.g., female Shining Flycatcher). Voice is a plaintive, slow, whistled note, usually repeated.

Fairly large, bright green parrot of humid tropical lowlands. Fairly common. Found in forest, edge, and semiopen areas with scattered tall trees and forest patches. Most often seen flying overhead early and late in the day, often fairly high and usually in pairs or loose groups made up of pairs. Best field mark is the contrasting yellow cheek patch; also note red forehead. Like other parrots in the same genus, in flight shows a red patch on the flight feathers.

Breeding adult male is royal blue with a white belly and orange throat and chest. Brown female is dull and potentially confusing, but note pale orange throat, rufous uppertail, and overall small stout appearance. Non-breeding and immature males are similar to females, but have blue wings and back. Breeds in moist broadleaf evergreen montane forest; descends into open forest and forest edge in the winter. Forages at middle levels, often with mixed-species flocks. Song is a brief series of high thin notes followed by a clicking rattle.