Somali Short-toed Lark

Medium-sized tern found on open ocean, beaches, and large lakes. Adults have pale gray body and black cap. Bill color differs by subspecies: most have red bill with black tip, but some Asian birds have all-black bills. First-years show dark outer primaries, dark shoulder, and black restricted to back of neck. Similar to Forster's, Arctic, and Roseate Terns. Separated from breeding Forster's Tern by entirely gray upperwings; nonbreeding Forster's shows black ear patch. Somewhat longer-billed and shorter-tailed than Arctic Tern, with paler body. Shorter-tailed and overall darker than gleaming white Roseate Tern. Often found in large flocks, especially in late summer. Gives a harsh screeching call "KEEE-yurrrr."

A small brown-black swallow with a short tail and comparatively weak flight. The forehead, crown, and back of the neck are dull chestnut with faint dark streaks. The back is glossy deep blue with a few narrow whitish streaks; the rump is pale brown and is more prominent in flight. The wings and tail are blackish-brown, and the tail almost square-ended. Underparts are buffy white with blackish-brown streaks, especially the chin, throat, and upper breast. Juvenile is duller and browner than adult, with buff feather edges and faint streaks on underparts. Found mostly as individuals in mixed swallow flocks; different, weaker flight action is characteristic. 

Chunky rail-like bird with rich rufous coloration. Found on the floor of dry forest in and adjacent to the limestone karst “tsingy” of Bemaraha and Beanka. Usually in pairs or small groups. Very shy, and looks almost like a mammal when scurrying away from disturbance. Most common call is a long, ringing series of “tyeow” notes. Also gives deep grunts. Within its small range, only likely to be confused with White-throated Rail, but smaller, with a shorter bill and a much smaller white throat patch.