Visayan Babbler

A sparrow-sized, resident pipit with brown plumage that varies in tones in different parts of its range. All birds have a bi-colored bill with a curve to the tip of the upper bill. The breast is streaked and the upperparts have variable amounts of streaking. Juveniles show distinct and dark mottling on the upperparts. It is common in open habitats such as wetlands, farms, fields, and even large parks. Very similar to Blyth’s and Richard’s Pipits, but relatively compact and has a more distinct eyebrow, fainter or no streaking on the back of the neck, a larger head, and a shorter tail than either Blyth’s or Richard’s. Calls include short “tsip” and “tissip” notes.

Attractive black-and-yellow oriole. Mainly in pine-oak forest of highlands, but also in humid tropical lowlands of Yucatan Peninsula. Often in flowering trees with other species of orioles. Both sexes have a yellow head and body with a small black mask and throat patch, black wings and tail. Bill is straight and pointed. Richly whistled and slightly halting song carries well.

A medium-sized, mostly black-and-white hornbill with a diagnostic yellow bill that gives it the nickname of “flying banana”. Pairs and small groups occupy semi-desert, savanna, and broadleaved woodland; associates closely with humans in camps. Hops on the ground foraging for invertebrates, and flies into trees when disturbed. It calls a continuous rollicking “ko-ko, ko-ko”, working up to a crescendo, “ko-kukuk, ko-kukuk, ko-kukuk”, with its wings held open and its head bowed.