Dusky-capped Flycatcher

A yellow-and-black weaver with a distinctive golden-chestnut crown and a yellow back that extends to the upper tail. The forehead of the male is golden-chestnut, while that of the female is black. Juvenile has a yellow-olive head and a pale bill. An uncommon resident in primary and secondary forest, often joining mixed-species flocks and clambering along tree trunks like a nuthatch. Often found in pairs. Mostly silent, but a harsh “chwep” call has been recorded. Yellow-capped Weaver is similar to Preuss’s but has a dark lower back and rump and does not creep along branches and trunks; Brown-capped Weaver has a dark crown and prefers the mountains. 

A small seed-eating species of forest edges, open woodlands, and nearby weedy areas; usually found in groups of two to five birds. Both sexes have bright yellow-green shoulders and a buff vent, which are diagnostic but can be difficult to see. Otherwise, the Black-faced Grassquit is rather similar, but can be distinguished by its slimmer bill and duller back. Furthermore, male Yellow-shouldered Grassquits have an entirely black head, whereas black is limited to the face on the Black-faced Grassquit. The song is a series of four or five high-pitched buzzy notes that either rising or dropping in pitch, followed by one to three notes at another different pitch.

Chunky, generally uncommon, rather grouselike bird of the high Andes. Found in pairs or small groups on bogs, stony slopes, and in bleak moorland of puna and páramo zones. Lacey “chainmail” pattern to upperparts is beautifully cryptic, and birds sometimes freeze when alarmed making them more difficult to see. No similar species in range; note the short stout bill and rusty underparts. Flight strong and fast, and flushes with loud shrieking choruses.