Japanese Accentor

Small, fruit-eating flycatcher found in lower to middle levels of humid forest. Most common in the mountains, but occasionally seen in lowland areas. Yellow belly, large spot behind eye, and streaky neck are all good ID features. Often seen following mixed species flocks, plucking berries from fruiting trees. Song is an incredibly high-pitched siren-like whistle that requires good hearing to be able to detect. Formerly treated as a subspecies of Olive-striped Flycatcher; note Olive-streaked Flycatcher’s limited range in Costa Rica and far western Panama.

Adult distinctive: glossy black overall with white belly, very long pointed red bill and reddish legs. Juvenile similar, but duller overall. Breeds in swampy coniferous and mixed forests, where rather shy; builds a bulky stick nest high in trees. In mountainous regions also nests on cliffs. Wintering and migrating birds can be found in grasslands, agricultural fields, and on the margins of lakes and rivers. Flies with neck and legs outstretched, and strong, deep wingbeats interspersed with glides; also soars on thermals.

Small sleek tanager with distinctive color pattern: pale sandy underparts with peachy blush on breast, black mask, powdery-blue crown, and darker blue back and wings. Sexes alike. Uncommon in second growth, edges, and gardens, where it is most often seen singly or in pairs. Occasionally follows mixed-species flocks. Found from foothills to upper subtropical zone in Andes, sometimes straying even higher. Populations in southeastern South America occur at lower elevations.