Saffron Siskin

Large red-brown cacique with a distinctive yellow helmeted bill. Yellow-olive throat and breast contrast with rich red-brown upper parts; in flight, tail is bright yellow with a central olive stripe. Resembles oropendolas more than most species of caciques; helpful distinguishing characteristics include its uniquely shaped bill and light blue eyes. Found in humid lowland rainforest, most commonly around swampy areas and streams. Frequently found in large flocks, often in the company of other cacique species and oropendolas.

A brightly colored songbird with a bright golden belly and throat, a black hood and chest band, and an olive upperside and wings. Female is dull overall, with brown upperparts, pale belly, off-white throat, and no breast band. Endemic to northern and western Fiji, where mostly inhabits mature forest, but also secondary growth. Song consists of a melodic whistled series, typically concluded with a decisive-sounding “whit!” note. Formerly treated as part of more broadly-defined “Fiji Whistler” alongside White-throated Fiji Whistler.

Shy understory bird of upper humid montane forest in the east slope of the Andes from central-western Argentina to central Bolivia. Prefers thick understory, and more often heard than seen. Often curious and inquisitive, but tends to stay hidden when possible. From similar Streak-fronted Thornbird by reddish cap, spotted underparts, and habitat (Streak-fronted prefers dryer and more open woodland). Song an accelerating then decelerating series of 10-12 “queet!” notes that rise and then fall in pitch.