Black-eared Catbird (Black-eared)

Fairly common in puna zone of the high Andes. Found in open areas such as bogs and sandy and stony plains with scattered shrubs and bunchgrass. Often seen in pairs, walking with waddling gait and pumping its tail like most miners. Best identified by plain whitish underparts (no breast streaking) and relatively short straightish bill. In flight shows rusty patches in wings and at base of tail. The similar Common Miner, which is found in the same areas, but is less numerous than the Puna Miner has a creamy white (not rusty) tail base.

Small finchlike bird. Male plain gray with white belly, small white patch at base of primaries, and thick yellow or pinkish-colored bill with curved culmen. No wingbars. Female fairly rich medium brown, extremely similar to other female seedeaters, especially Slate-colored. Note dark blackish bill, but even that is not a foolproof field mark. Generally quite common in open grasslands, edges of second growth, and shrubbery. Usually in small flocks, sometimes mixing with other seedeater species.

Small, stocky owl with large head and no neck. Pointed ear tufts are often raised. Varies in color from gray to bright rufous (reddish-brown). Intricate pattern is perfect for camouflage against tree bark. Yellow eyes. Active at night when they prey on small birds and mammals. More often heard than seen; listen for its descending whinny and longer trill. Roosts and nests in cavities, including nest boxes. Found in a variety of habitats with trees, particularly near water.