Malagasy Swift

A small, pale, and active tyrannulet with a small bill. No bright colors; look for bold white eyebrow, pale yellowish rump, and two off-white wingbars. Tends to perch horizontally, often with its tail cocked up slightly. Flits actively, usually in the canopy and often part of a mixed-species flock. Occurs in cloud forest and edges from Colombia to Peru, from around 1,500 to 2,500 m. Similar to White-banded Tyrannulet, but smaller and found at lower elevations; also note White-banded’s thicker white eyebrow, gleaming white wingbars, and generally more contrasting plumage than White-tailed. Often detected by series of three or four squeaky “psee” notes coming from a canopy flock.

A newly described species endemic (at least as a breeder) to a few pockets of northern China. Essentially visually identical to Red-flanked Bluetail: adult male is sky-blue above and pale below, with orange sides and a small white eyebrow. Female and juvenile are more subdued, but still have the rufous flanks and blue tail. Breeds in humid montane forest, often favoring mossy, damp areas. Wintering range and habits essentially unknown, but probably overlap those of Red-flanked Bluetail. Can be hyperactive, moving quickly across the forest floor, stopping to flick the tail downwards. Best identified by range and distinctive song: a short, descending sweet yet burry phrase repeated regularly, very different from the song of Red-flanked Bluetail. Also has a variety of calls that are less distinctive, including a rising “sweet”, a descending “seet”, and a series of low, dry notes.

Crow-sized raptor typically found around forest edges and rivers. Entirely black except for gleaming white rump and bright facial skin and legs. Similar to Red-throated Caracara that occurs in forest interiors, but has more extensive black plumage and is found in more open habitats. Frequently travels in pairs or groups and is often found around human activity in agricultural areas and riverside towns.