Southern Gray-headed Sparrow

Relatively small, brown-black grebe endemic to New Zealand. Note the fine silvery back-swept feathers on the head and the distinctive yellow eyes. Adults are paler in non-breeding plumage. Sexes alike. Can sit quite high on the water; feeds either on the surface or by diving for up to 30 seconds. Frequents freshwater lakes, dams, and ponds. Found mostly across the North Island and in the northern part of the South Island. Distinguished from Hoary-headed Grebe by darker plumage and from Australasian Grebe by larger size and cinnamon neck.

A small hornbill with a black body, a white tail, and a strong pale bill with a flat, grooved casque on top. The male has a rust-colored head and breast, while the female’s head and breast are black. Found only on Narcondam island. Feeds on berries and fruits in tall trees. Calls include short, wavering notes with a somewhat nasal quality, as well as barks and grunts. 

Typical “rufous sparrow”, with a striped back and a gray crown, nape, and rump. Males have a black bib, and are brighter overall, with more rufous on the face and shoulder. Endemic to the Socotran island of Abd al Kuri, where it inhabits dry habitats, particularly rocky and scrubby slopes, sometimes around human settlements. The call is a cheerful “chirp”, often given in a slow series, similar to other sparrows. Similar to Socotra Sparrow, but separated by range.