Biak Whistler

A rotund, short-legged ground-dwelling dove that usually runs rather than flies when startled. Male has a distinctive dark purple back, wings, and belly, a whitish chest crescent, and a light gray chest and head. Females usually resemble males, though some have purple-brown bodies with a very ruddy chest and head. Inhabits most forest habitats, including rainforest and bamboo thickets. Very shy. Sometimes heard giving a series of low-pitched, typical dove-like hooting notes.

A small, dark songster of montane forest floor and undergrowth. Note dark brown body with a fairly bold white eyebrow. Unlike most shortwings, there is little difference between male and female plumages, though eyebrow may be less conspicuous on females. Furtive and difficult to see well; forages on the ground of various types of forest, including bamboo, fern, and mossy forest. Song a short phrase starting with a high-pitched clear whistle, followed by a jumbled slightly flutey note. Call a relatively low, knocking wooden rattle.

A common, medium-sized honeyeater of all wooded habitats in the lowlands and foothills. Olive plumage, a little paler on the underparts with no mottling. Large and elongated, yellow ear spot. ID problematic as it co-occurs with many other similar species. Mountain and Graceful are smaller, Puff-backed has a thicker bill, Yellow-gaped has a more prominent yellow gape. Calls include a trill, a whistle and a “chup!”.