White-bellied Kingfisher

Dapper little finch endemic to Madeira, where it inhabits a range of habitats, from forests to farmlands. Handsome, brightly colored male has a blue-grayish cowl, pale orangish face and breast, and a black-and-white wing pattern (colors muted in winter). Female much drabber but shares male pattern; especially note the complex wing pattern. Both sexes have white outer tail feathers, often striking in flight such as when flushed. Song is a distinctive burbling, descending trill; calls include a squeaky “bi’dee” and yapping notes, often in series.

Bizarre nocturnal heron of mangroves and freshwater marshes in tropical lowlands; spends the daytime roosting in trees, often in loose groups. Comes out at night to feed along the edge of lakes and rivers. Easily identified by huge ‘boat bill’ and big brown eyes. Adult has black crown, pinkish breast, and silvery gray back; immature pattern similar, but plumage duller and browner overall.

Little-known thrush which breeds in the dense hilly and montane forests of China’s northern and central Sichuan province; favors dense understory and coniferous stands. Brown above with scaled white underparts. Grayish crown and heavier bill distinguish this species from similar Alpine Thrush, while short tail and lack of prominent “earmuffs” separate it from Long-tailed Thrush. Beautiful melodic song is rich and smooth, without many harsh notes.