Variable Sunbird

A tiny-bodied sunbird in which breeding males are colorful and distinctive, and females and non-breeding males quite drab. Breeding males have a green back, a yellow belly, and extremely elongated central tail feathers. Females and non-breeding males have gray-brown upperparts and pale-yellow underparts. Similar to Nile Valley Sunbird, but there is very little overlap in range; males are distinguished by their lack of purple on the back and breast, and females by being darker overall and having a less distinct pale eyebrow. Also similar to female Beautiful Sunbird, but yellower below, with a shorter bill. The most common call is a rising “sweet,” and the song is a typical sunbird jumble. 

A small honeyeater with a short, downcurved bill. Male is striking: blackish with a bright red hood and rump and a paler underside. Female is largely gray-brown save for a light wash of red on the throat and head. Singles or pairs inhabit the canopy of forest and forest edge in the lowlands and foothills on the island of Sumba. It is the only myzomela in its range, rendering it unmistakable. Vocalizations include uneven phrases of “tizew” notes, and harsher “tzit” notes.

Dull brown prinia. Largely devoid of eye-catching field marks: gray-brown above and white below with pale eyebrow. Plain Prinia can be very similar, but Jungle averages larger and more thickset, with a heavier bill and weaker eyebrows. Look for this skulker in dry scrubby tangles, often in areas intermixed with boulders. Forages close to the ground. Song is a rollicking, repetitive “ti’li’lew-ti’li’lew-ti’le’lew.” Also gives various chip notes, as well as a loud chatter when agitated.