Solomons Island-Thrush

A large gull that breeds mainly inland, and migrates to the coast for the winter. Adults have a fairly pale gray back, pale eye, and dull yellow legs that can have a hint of pink coloration. Takes four years for immatures to progress from mostly brown to fully white and gray adult plumage; intermediate plumages are often mottled and messy. Variable plumage can make identification tricky. Occurs inland and along the coast, frequenting river mouths, harbors, beaches, lakes, and ponds. Often forms flocks with other gulls. Very similar to Vega Gull, and separation often difficult, but has a smaller head and bill; adults also generally have yellower legs.

Small, dark grebe that is endemic to Madagascar. The neck is rufous and white in breeding plumage and buff in non-breeding plumage. Juvenile has a bridled head pattern. Found very locally on the open water of lakes and ponds. Call is a long, dry rattle, often given in duet by a pair. Similar to Little Grebe, but generally much less common, especially at lower elevations. In breeding plumage, Madagascar Grebe is identified by its white throat patch. In non-breeding plumage, hard to distinguish from Little Grebe, but usually still shows a pale patch on the throat. 

Endemic to the Barusan Islands, off Sumatra’s northwest coast. Dark gingery brown overall, with a slightly lighter head. The only cuckoo-dove on the Barusans, except for Simeulue, where Little Cuckoo-Dove also occurs; note Barusan’s larger size and darker rust-brown chest. Inhabits forested areas in the lowlands and foothills of the Barusans. Similar in habits to other cuckoo-doves: shy and sluggish, typically foraging singly in the middle and lower levels of forest. Gives a three-part series of cooing hoots, “woo-woo-wooOOH”; may sound like just one rising hoot at a distance.