Red-tailed Shrike

Very rare antwren, unmistakable in its tiny range, likely now restricted to one complex of humid forest fragments in the Brazilian state of Alagoas. Males are gray with a blackish throat and females are cinnamon-colored. Forages in the understory and middle levels of the forest, usually accompanying remnant mixed-species flocks. The song is a high sharp series of whistles.

Male is a distinctive oriole with a green head, dark mask, and orange-red bill. Duller female is brown above and paler below, with a dark mask and black bill. Juveniles are heavily streaked. Singles and pairs can be found in lowland forest patches, woodlands, mangroves, and cultivated areas. Females resemble Helmeted Friarbird, but lacks that species’ casque, naked facial skin, and a prominent nostril on the blunter-tipped bill. Gives a “k’WOW” and descending “k’we-hoo.”

Widespread hummingbird, but often overlooked. Appears mostly green with a solidly dark blue tail. If seen in good light, note reddish base of bill and (for male) strong bluish sheen on throat and breast. Female identifiable by extensive green spotting below. Occurs in a variety of habitats including river edges, abandoned plantations and second growth, and patches of savanna woodland. Feeds on nectar and defends patches of flowers from other hummingbirds. Male is similar to male Blue-tailed Emerald but is larger, lacks forked tail and has bluish cast on underparts. Female is somewhat similar to Glittering-throated Emerald but has uniformly spotted breast.