Biak Gerygone

Large-headed, predominantly brown kingfisher with electric-blue back and wings, heavy red bill, and snow-white patch from the throat through the breast. Common both near and away from water; frequently seen perched on fence posts and telephone lines near wetlands, lakes, agricultural fields, and clearings. Gives jarring, raptor-like descending trills and cackles, often in flight.

Mid-sized warbler with a long, spiky tail. Varies geographically, with most birds dull brown or olive-green, though there is a bright rufous subspecies around the Albertine Rift. Found in forest at middle and high elevations. Skulks in dense undergrowth; remarkably shy and elusive. The song is a series of several “chu-wit” couplets that increase in volume. Similar to Cinnamon Bracken- and Bangwa Warblers, but in most of the range distinguished by much less rufous overall coloration. Around the Albertine Rift, distinguished from Cinnamon Bracken-Warbler by the lack of a well-defined white throat.

Inconspicuous and uncommon woodpecker of coniferous forests, particularly spruces, often at high elevations (especially in the Rockies). Prefers recently burned areas or bogs with many dead trees. Distinctive habit of flaking bark off trees in search of grubs; behavior shared only by Black-backed Woodpecker. Generally dark with barred flanks and subtle white spots on wings and back. Face is black with white stripes above and below the eye and white speckles on the forehead. Eastern birds darker than western birds. Males show yellow patch on crown; sexes otherwise alike. Most similar to Black-backed Woodpecker but American Three-toed always shows some white on back and more white on head. Listen for soft, hollow "pweek" call and slow drumming that fades at the end.