Gray-cheeked Bulbul

This small, dark cinnamon-brown owl is the only resident scops-owl in its limited range. Inhabits a wide range of wooded habitats, from pristine lowland rainforest to plantations and woodlots around human habitation. Gives a barking hoot with an abrupt ending, often in pairs or well-spaced series. Also gives quiet, low rattling croaks. Combination of dark eyes and uniformly dark brown plumage distinguish this species from any migrant or vagrant scops-owls on the Mentawai Islands.

Small, inconspicuous dove of savannas and open grassland with scattered low bushes and palmettos; also found locally in cane fields and pastures. Usually found in pairs or small groups, sometimes associating with other ground doves. Both sexes are rather plain overall, with diagnostic purple marks on the back, although the color is often hard to see. The female can be easily confused with the much commoner Ruddy Ground Dove, which also has a plain breast, but the Ruddy Ground Dove is larger and warmer brown overall; also note vocal differences.

A common understory bird found in the undergrowth or on the ground in forests of all types, from the lowlands into the foothills. The reddish-brown back and tail are noticeable when the bird flies away in the undergrowth, but look also for the white undersides, dark gray legs, and gray face. This alethe’s fiery crest is hard to see in the field and often appears as a reddish-brown crown stripe. Sometimes imitates other species, including illadopsises. Distinguished from Brown-chested Alethe by its plain gray face, dark legs, and reddish crown stripe. Gives a distinctive two-parted whistle, “go where?”, with a distinct pause between the notes.