Rufous-capped Babbler

Well-named seedeater found in arid scrub and adjacent farmland in western Peru and southwestern Ecuador. Its best field marks are the distinct wingbars and bill color (pinkish on breeding males, nearly black on other individuals). Bill is smaller and less bulbous than that of Parrot-billed Seedeater. Sometimes found alone, but loose flocks may converge on areas with abundant food, such as fields of seeding grass. Males often sing a short series of buzzy notes.

Typically dull olive-brown mid-sized greenbul with a long bill, white throat, and reddish tail. Has a whitish eye, and usually shows pale crescents above and below the eye. Found in the thick undergrowth of forest and lush woodland at low elevations. Usually in small groups. The calls are low, gravelly “chrrr” notes, delivered in quick sequence, often by a whole group together. Somewhat similar to Gray-olive Greenbul, but larger, with a darker bill and legs. Similar to brownbuls, but separated by the pale eye and more olive-green coloration on the back.

Black-masked bandit of open areas with some bushes and trees. Bold black, white, and gray pattern is distinctive; also note stout hooked bill. Usually seen singly or in pairs, often perched conspicuously on a treetop or utility wire. Fairly widespread in southern and western North America, but never abundant, and declining over much of range. Carnivorous habits make shrikes unique among passerines; they feed on rodents and small birds. Undulating flight; watch for white patches in the wings. May overlap with Northern Shrike in winter; Loggerhead is slightly smaller, darker, and lacks white around the eye.