White-headed Vanga

This is the only montane laughingthrush in its range and hence unmistakable. It is dull brown above, with gray breast and head and a pale rufous belly. It has a black chin connecting to a black eye-line and a prominent white eyebrow. Inhabits stunted montane forests, where it is seen in pairs or noisy flocks, producing a melodious “pee-kooo” song and several other chatters intermingled with musical notes. Heard more often than seen; its songs and calls are usually the first indication of its presence.

An accomplished songster found in cloud forest along the east slope of the Andes in northern and central Peru. Some birds are almost entirely brown with faint black barring on wings and tail. Other birds have a variable amount of white on the face and forehead. Plumage is very similar to Sharpe’s Wren, which overlaps with it in northern Peru but is found mainly at lower elevations. In the area of overlap, voice is the best way to separate the two species. Peruvian Wren is often encountered in large family groups that move together through the lower and middle levels of the forest. Pairs sing elaborate duets consisting of rich whistles and trills. They also give rapid, frantic rattles when agitated.

Breeding males are unmistakable: brilliant red with black wings and tail. Females and nonbreeding males are dull yellow-olive with dark wings (blacker on males, grayer on females). Compare with female Summer Tanager, which has a longer bill and less contrast between wing and body color. Breeds in mature deciduous forests, usually staying high in the canopy. Migrants are also usually found in mature woodlands. Winters in northern South America. Occasionally visits feeders in the spring, especially after periods of rain or cold weather. Listen for burry song, like an American Robin with a sore throat.