Vulturine Guineafowl

Small, often rather active little bird of shady forest understory in humid tropical lowlands; often in areas with understory palms. Usually in pairs at middle levels moving with mixed-species flocks that often include Golden-crowned Warbler and Red-crowned Ant-Tanager. Rather drab brownish overall with tawny bushy crest, paler gray face and throat, and piercing pale eye (can be hard to see in the shade). Often gives a twangy, nasal “dwoi-dwoi-dwoi” call and a high, insectlike, whining whistle.

Scarce blackbird found only at higher elevations in the northern half of Colombia’s eastern Andes. It is quite slender and nearly all black, but has a maroon patch under the shoulder which is mostly hidden from view when the bird is perched. The dark bill and eye help to separate it from other similar species if the wing patch is not visible. Usually seen in the forest canopy and may congregate in large flocks. Song is a chaotic series of sharp, shrill notes mixed with clacking calls.

The largest nuthatch in North America, with distinctive white face, black cap, and blue-gray upperparts. Also note rusty lower belly and undertail coverts. Females have a slightly paler crown than males. Fairly common and widespread, usually in mature woodlands with large trees. Creeps along tree trunks and branches, often upside-down. Sometimes joins mixed flocks with other songbirds. Visits feeders. Listen for insistent yammering calls. Some subtle variation across range, mainly in the darkness of the sides and back, width of the black crown, and vocalizations.