White-bellied Thicket-Fantail

Sparrow-like weaver in which red-hooded breeding males are distinctive, but females and non-breeding females are drab. Madagascar endemic that is found in and adjacent to rainforest, sometimes in flocks that may include other birds. Calls are high, silvery notes, given in long series as a song. Can be very similar to Red Fody. Breeding male Forest Fody lacks red on the back and belly, though molting male Red Fody can match this pattern. Females and non-breeding males very similar, but Forest Fody is darker and more greenish, with a larger bill. Hybrids are also common and further confuse identification. Unlike Red Fody, found in the rainforest interior.

Chunky-looking bird with a small head and a larger bill than other jacamars, recalling a kingfisher. Chestnut-colored overall with a pinkish-red bill. Occurs in humid upland and seasonally flooded forests, where it is most often seen flycatching from exposed branches, often in small groups. The song is a high, whistled “péeeuh- péeeuh- péeeuh- péeeuh.”

Beautiful adult male is shimmering sky-blue above and pale below, with orange sides and a small white eyebrow. Female and juvenile are more subdued, but still have the rufous flanks and blue tail. Breeds in mature taiga and montane forests, often favoring mossy, damp areas. Winters in a range of wooded areas, including parks and forest edges. Can be hyperactive, moving quickly across the forest floor, stopping to flick the tail downwards. Feeds on insects and berries in the autumn. Song is a short series of bright, pleasant warbles. Calls include a rising “sweet”, a descending “seet”, and a series of low, dry notes.