Crossley's Vanga

An unusual paradise-flycatcher, slate-gray overall with a slightly darker head. Males have slightly elongated central tail feathers. Both sexes have a blue bill and ring around the eye. A poorly known bird that is found in humid forest at lower middle elevations along the west side of the Albertine Rift. Similar in shape to other paradise-flycatchers, but easily separated by the gray underparts. Reminiscent of Dusky and Blue-headed Crested-Flycatchers, but larger and less crested, with more vertical posture. Call is a series of tearing “shreet” notes, and song is a fast, bubbling series of “twee” notes.

Flocks of these large sea ducks enliven northern coastlines. Males are white and black with a soft suffusion of green on the nape. Immature males are variable and messy-looking with patches of black and white. Females vary from rich rufous-brown to cold grayish, always with extensive black barring covering body and wings. Slight variation in bill shape and color across subspecies, especially obvious on males; Pacific birds have brightest orange bills, most others have greenish bills. Dives to feed on mollusks and other crustaceans. In late summer, look for flocks of females with dozens of ducklings; broods often join together. Compare females with other eider species, and note details of bill and head shape.

High-elevation hummingbird endemic to the Andes of southern Ecuador. Plumage is mostly green with a purple throat, and tail is blue on top and greenish underneath. Bill is short and straight. Female has underparts scaled with gray or buff. Compared to the common and widespread Tyrian Metaltail, Violet-throated lacks a rusty tail and has a purple (not green or buffy) throat. Inhabits montane scrub and edge of stunted forest. Most sightings come from in and around Cajas National Park.