Forest Bittern

Attractive, rather skulking large sparrow of foothills, endemic to west Mexico. Favors brushy understory of tropical woodlands, shade-coffee plantations, and brushy hedges in farmland. Mostly stays well hidden on or near the ground, but can feed in the open beside quiet roads and trails, especially in early mornings; usually in pairs. Note the rusty cap (often raised when excited), white spectacles, and extensive white bib with a dark central spot.

Small dark babbler with a ring of pale exposed skin around the eye. Contrastingly pale bill stands out in the gloom of the undergrowth. Found in limestone forests, often near cliffs, gullies, and ravines. Climbs on vegetation and limestone karst in search of prey, often in both single-species and mixed-species flocks. Calls softly when foraging, but fairly quiet compared to other babblers.

Like many other snowfinches, the Blanford’s is found in open areas on high-altitude steppes and hills, but generally prefers drier areas than other species. Predominantly white and brown with a black crescent curving around the front of the face and a pale orange one curving around the back, giving the bird a somewhat round-cheeked appearance. Often quite tame, taking scraps from hikers, monks, and shepherds.