Pilbara Grasswren

A typical forktail, with piebald plumage and long tail. Black head, upper back, chest and wings; white belly, rump, forecrown and wingbar; black and white tail and pale-pink legs. Inhabits shaded whitewater streams through montane rainforests, along which it perches on boulders and low-hanging branches. May overlap at mid-elevations with the very similar White-crowned Forktail which occurs in the lowlands, but Bornean has a longer tail and less extensive white on the head. Often detected by its vocalizations, a harsh buzzing whistle and high metallic whistles.

This Colombian endemic has a limited range in the southern Andes, where it can be found in both the eastern and central cordilleras. It has dark upperparts, yellow underparts, and a distinctive black mustache stripe. Young birds are paler on the head and may show indistinct streaking below. The lack of any crown stripe or crown patch helps separate it from juveniles of other brushfinches, which otherwise can look similar. Inhabits tangles in clearings and at edge of cloud forest, but generally avoids forest interior. Vocalizations include a short series of chips and clear whistles and a fast, descending chatter.

Adult is pale buffy with dark brown wings; juvenile is also buffy but with dark streaking all over. Note buffy wing patches in flight. Most similar to Laughing Falcon but only has thin dark line behind eye, not a full black mask. Much smaller than Crested Caracara, without dark cap. Found in open habitats, such as fields and river edges, where it often perches conspicuously. Can be found singly, in pairs, or in small family groups. Makes a harsh screeching noise.