Black-chinned Siskin

Common raptor in open spaces in the high Andes and southern South America. Large, relatively broad-winged, and short-tailed raptor. As the name suggests, plumage is quite variable. Adults range from clean white to dark gray and rufous below with a gray or rufous back. Always look for the white tail with a black band near the tip. Juveniles are more confusing, usually dark brown above and buffy below with a variable amount of dark streaking below. Juveniles can also be all dark brown (but this morph is rare). Compare with Black-chested Buzzard-Eagle, which is larger and broader-winged, with young birds usually darker than most Variable Hawks. Occurs from sea level up to over 4,500 m in the Andes, typically in open agricultural land, desert, or paramo, but also ranging over wooded areas.

Fairly common; seen more readily than other large tapaculos. Like huet-huets, loud calls often draw attention. Found in matorral and other native scrub on hillsides and rocky slopes. Often perches on rocks or runs along roadsides, tail cocked strongly. Besides its large, “fat” size and shape, note big white “mustaches,” solidly brownish breast, and boldly barred belly. Compare with smaller and longer-tailed White-throated Tapaculo, which is often in the same areas.

Small hummingbird of tropical lowlands, favoring forest edge and semi-open areas, often in relatively dry habitats. Usually feeds rather low, and often inconspicuous. Both sexes habitually pump their forked tail while hovering, unlike most other hummingbirds found in the same areas. Solidly emerald-green male is distinctive. Combination of small size, rather short straight bill, face pattern (whitish eyestripe and broad dark mask), and tail wagging behavior help ID the female. Also note the dry chattering call, which may suggest the call of Ruby-crowned Kinglet.