Yellow-browed Shrike-Vireo

Distinctive-looking small bird found in riverside or lakeside vegetation such as reeds; generally avoids the densest stands. Buffy-brown overall with a dark head; Central Asian birds average paler than Iranian birds. Sexes are similar, but females are lighter-colored and less contrastingly marked. The ‘caspia’ form of Eurasian Penduline-Tit can be similar, but Black-headed has an entirely dark head instead of a dark mask. Like other penduline-tits, builds a hanging pouch nest, which in this species is typically woven between reeds.

Bulky horned owl of highlands from central Peru south to Tierra del Fuego. Note prominent “horns”, black-bordered face, and densely barred belly. Inhabits a wide variety of habitats, from open forests to farm fields and grasslands. Gives a double hoot, “hoohoo!”, sometimes followed by a low churring series. Sometimes active during the day.

Uncommon dark swiftlet. Endemic to a smattering of the Philippines islands, from Luzon to Mindanao to Palawan. Habitat can be helpful in identifying this confusing species; generally favors ridges and slopes in montane and submontane areas above 700-800 meters. Readily confused with significantly larger Ameline Swiftlet, but present species has a more squared-off-looking tail (fork is shallow and often unnoticeable), tends to fly lower and more erratically, and more often forms flocks. Combination of dark rump, unglossed dark back, and medium size separates this species from Gray-rumped Swiftlet, Pygmy Swiftlet, and Ridgetop Swiftlet. Frequently calls while in flight, giving a squeaky chattering twitter.