Red-bellied Myzomela

Chunky dark blue bird. Brightest blue on the nape and shoulder. Readily distinguished from similar species by shape, uniform plumage, and dark bill. Often spreads its short tail in a rather unimpressive gesture. Endemic to Java and Bali, where it inhabits foothill and montane forests at 800-2400 meters. Typically encountered close to or on the ground, but will also perch up on branches at mid-height. Favors areas with rocky outcrops, sometimes (but not always) near water. Can be quite tame, especially in areas frequented by people. Gives a sharp, resonant “tsee-chk-chk!”

Small finchlike bird, compact and short tailed. Generally yellow below and dark blue-back above with stout, short bill. Both sexes of Golden-rumped are distinctive in range. Male has sky blue crown and nape, dark throat, and orangey-yellow belly. Females are duller olive-yellow overall but still possess the telltale blue crown and nape. Frequents open forested habitats, edges, and gardens. Can form mixed feeding flocks with other species such as warblers and tanagers.

A tiny finch of grassy areas. Key features include the brown back, red rump, orange face, and bright red bill. Found in grasslands, forest clearings, and thickets. Call include a high, thin squeaking “zwee” and a snappy ‘chi-de-chi’. Song is a sort and truncated series of whistles. Native to Africa; introduced to Japan, Spain, the Hawaiian Islands, and parts of the Caribbean.