Volcano Junco

A common prinia with drab gray-brown plumage that varies in tone across its range. Note the pale, wide eyebrow and the long tail that appears as if it is loosely attached to the body. Breeding birds have a black bill and a shorter tail. Common in various habitats, especially farms and wetlands, but avoids woodlands with a canopy. A somewhat bold species, it often skulks in the undergrowth but sings from exposed perches. The song is a repeated series of insectlike trills. Calls include various buzzing and clinking notes. Also produces snapping sounds with its wings.

Chunky, big-billed weaver of dry country. Yellow-hooded breeding male is distinctive. Both sexes have pink bare skin around the eye. Madagascar endemic that is found in the north and west at low and middle elevation. Preferred habitats include open forest, scrub, plantations, savannah, and villages. Very social weaver that is almost always found in flocks, sometimes mixed with other birds, and which nests in bustling colonies. The nest is a messy hanging orb. Song is a complex, high-pitched series of scolding and sizzling notes. Call is a husky “chert.” Female and non-breeding male similar to fodies, but separated by larger size, bigger bill, pink facial skin, and different facial pattern.  

Very large, long-tailed game bird of tropical and subtropical forest. Often seen high in trees or flying through the forest canopy; usually not seen in areas near people except in some protected areas due to hunting pressure. Typically in pairs or small groups and wary. Plumage dark overall (often looks blackish) with bright red throat wattle; white streaking on body visible at closer range. Crest is bushy and usually not a striking feature.