Red-crested Turaco

Small, rare rail that is unlikely to be seen unless you’re expressly looking for it at a handful of known sites. Cleanly rich brown on the back and gray below, with a bright yellow bill and red legs. Found in a few western Madagascar wetlands with tall reeds and floating vegetation. Common calls are a repeated “tik” and a long, dry trill. Combination of size and all-yellow bill are distinctive. 

Large, big-billed vanga with white underparts. Males have a black hood, and females only a black cap. Madagascar endemic that is found in low-elevation spiny forest. Can be found solo or in pairs, sometimes in flocks with other vangas. Most common vocalizations are quick, sharp whistles and a “chi-che-che” scold. Separated from Van Dam’s and Pollen’s Vangas by range. Separated from Madagascar Cuckooshrike by much larger bill and white rather than gray underparts. 

Attractive, long-tailed bird found in the high Andes of Peru. Plumage is brown overall with a chestnut crown, speckled throat, and streaked belly. Plumage varies geographically, and birds in southern Peru are much darker below with bolder streaking. Inhabits scrub and woodland with short trees. Vocalizations have a metallic quality; they include a high-pitched trill and a series of sharp chips.