Gray-hooded Attila

A small uncrested owl with a round head and a short tail. It is grayish-brown overall with white spots above while its underparts are white with brown bars. Note the distinctive white eyebrows and neck-band. Often active at dawn and dusk when it utters a loud “chirurr-chirurr-chirurr” laugh in addition to a variety of high-pitched squeals and whistles. Inhabits all kinds of open habitats but avoids dense forest and wetter regions.

Generally uncommon medium-sized goose. Dark chocolate brown with a white forehead and bubblegum-pink bill. Similar to Greater White-fronted Goose: Lesser is slightly smaller and shorter-necked with a rather small, stubby bill, a distinct but narrow yellow eyering, and a more extensive white forehead. Usually seen as singles or small groups among flocks of other geese. Breeds in scrubby tundra and winters in agricultural fields, saltmarshes, and drier areas adjacent to wetlands. Gives high squeaks, often while in flight.

Compact swallow with a short, square tail. In flight, looks slightly less angular than other swallows, with more rounded wings. Note pale buffy-orange rump, which separates Cliff from most other swallows in range. Also look for dark throat and pale forehead. Widespread and fairly common, especially in western North America. Breeds under bridges, overpasses, and culverts. Winters in South America. Compare especially with Cave Swallow, which has a paler throat and orange forehead.