White-chested Alethe

The smallest member of a group of frustratingly similar double-collared sunbirds that co-occur in African forests. Often encountered near forest edges and in forest clearings, and sometimes even in villages and gardens. Males have an olive belly, a bright red chest band with a blue and purple upper border, yellow underwing tufts, and an iridescent green throat, head, and upperparts. Females are generally olive all over with a slight eye-line and darker olive streaking on the undersides. Appears short-billed, and from a distance almost straight-billed. Extremely similar to Olive-bellied Sunbird and Northern Double-collared Sunbird, with which this species co-occurs. Look for Tiny Sunbird’s short, nearly straight bill and the small red breast band on the males. Gives sharp “tsew!” calls and, in its song, multiple notes at different pitches in rapid succession.

Large ‘woody woodpecker’ of tropical forest in lowlands and foothills. Also ranges into semi-open areas with tall trees, mangroves, and other lightly wooded habitats. The tufted red crest and black face distinguish it from adult Pale-billed Woodpecker, which often occurs in the same areas. Also note that the white ‘braces’ on the back of Lineated are widely spaced, unlike Pale-billed. Laughing call suggests a flicker, and very unlike calls of Pale-billed.

Diminutive swallow of grasslands and savanna, particularly near water, where it occurs on its own or in small groups. Note the cinnamon head and breast contrasting with a brown back and white belly. Told from the larger Southern Rough-winged Swallow by the cinnamon head and darker rump.