Littoral Rock-Thrush

A mostly yellow bird with a black hood and a red bill. The tail pattern varies geographically; it can be largely plain olive-and-yellow, or it can show black patches. Found in lush woodland and montane forest at middle elevations in the Abyssinian highlands. Very similar to African Black-headed Oriole, but usually separated by habitat and range. Further distinguished by the wing pattern, which is plainer, with a long gray patch, and without bold white feather edgings. Song is a series of slurred, liquid whistles, and calls include raspy notes. 

Small, very plain brown swallow with a white belly. Uses many different open habitats, usually near water. Most often seen on the wing, sometimes in flocks, which can also contain other species of swallow or swift. Weak, fluttering flight. Inconspicuous “chit” call. Can be distinguished from all other swallows in its range by its plainness and small size. Rock Martin shows white patches in the tail. Bank Swallow has bright white underparts with a brown chest band.

A very plain sparrow found in dense brushy woodlands and weedy fields. Gray overall with dull greenish back. Look for obvious dark stripes on head, usually brownish but darker in western Mexico. Sexes are alike; young birds are buffier and streakier. Fairly common but shy and sometimes difficult to see well. Always on or near the ground. Primarily a Mexican species, with limited range in U.S. and an isolated population in Costa Rica and Nicaragua. Listen for song, a series of sharp notes that speeds up towards the end. Compare with brighter Green-backed Sparrow of the Yucatan Peninsula; especially note different voice.