Eurasian Hoopoe

Large dark thrush of open forests, gardens, and farms; one of the more common urban birds throughout much of its extensive range. Frequently seen on lawns and fields away from cover, pulling up worms and other invertebrates. Both sexes dark with orange bills, the male black overall, the female dark brown. Sings beautifully from exposed perches throughout the day, a series of loud melodic notes that varies between individuals. Often gives a shrill shriek or a series of “wuk” notes when alarmed or agitated.

Odd-looking partridge-like bird with a stunted head. Brown wings, gray underparts, and yellow bill. Found on small offshore islands and within hilly and montane forests on larger islands. Forages on the ground, scraping about in the leaf litter and detritus. Gives long, drawn-out wails somewhat akin to that of emergency vehicles. Like other megapodes, builds mounds and digs burrows to incubate eggs.

Small pale parrot of inland Australia woodlands, often found in mulga and acacia scrubland. Gray-brown scaly upperparts set off by unique pastel pink underparts and blue underwing and rump. In flight, note also the blue outer upperwing (primary flight feathers and their coverts). Often observed coming to drink: flocks usually visit a favorite water hole at dawn and dusk. Feeds on the ground in small groups but sometimes in large flocks of 50 or more birds. Calls include piercing, high-pitched whistles and chattering.