Orange-tufted Spiderhunter

Small dark swift. Look for the contrasting whitish band across the rump. Plenty of geographic variation across its disjunct range, with some populations showing a less contrasting rump band. Very similar to Gray-rumped Swift, which can sometimes be separated by the lack of a whitish band across the rump, but often best left unidentified as not all Band-rumps clearly show the whitish band. Usually seen in flocks, sometimes quite large, feeding over forests, clearings, open fields, and lakes.

Strikingly patterned large sparrow, found locally in foothills and highlands of Chiapas and Central America. Favors tropical and subtropical forests, shade-coffee plantations, and brushy edges. Typically on or near the ground in shady understory, where quite timid; often in pairs. Striking head pattern is unlike other species in the region, with big white face spots and yellow neck patch. Populations from Nicaragua south have more black on face and breast.

Slightly bigger and stockier than Common Snipe, with a long and thick bill, heavily barred belly and contrasting upperwing pattern with dark underwings. Flushes at close range; escape flight is usually slow and short. Typically quiet and silent. Breeds in remote wet meadows or in mountain bogs where males lek (display together). Usually found at marshes on migration; autumn migrants make a direct nonstop flight to tropical African wintering grounds.