Yellow-crowned Canary

A medium-sized woodpecker that frequently forms small flocks and can be found in most wooded habitats. No other species in its range sports its glossy dark blue back and rosy front. Drums softly, calls loudly, often belying its presence. Most commonly gives an emphatic “Pik!” which is often repeated, sometimes in a rapidly accelerating series.

Male striking, with bright golden underparts and neck, olive wings, and a deep black head, chest, and tail. Female mostly olive-yellow with a grayish cap and a pale throat. Found in primary and sometimes secondary forest, but generally avoids villages and gardens. Song consists of a complex mix of whistles ending in a loud, far-carrying whipcrack.

Unique medium-sized owl of the boreal forest. Remarkably long-tailed for an owl; reminiscent of a small hawk in flight with quick, snappy wingbeats. Pale eyes give it an angry look. Brownish overall with white spotting above, barred underparts, and spotted crown. Feeds on small rodents by sight and sound. Often seen perched on the very top of a spruce tree or snag, surveying the surrounding landscape for prey. When rodent populations crash, large numbers of Northern Hawk Owls can move south of their normal range.