Hume's Lark

A large dark sunbird with a long decurved bill. The male is spectacular, glossy velvet-black with a striking scarlet daub on the chest and an iridescent green crown and throat. The female is dark gray-brown and heavily streaked underneath. Singles and pairs occupy a broad variety of dry and moist savanna, parkland, and gardens, eating nectar and insects. The species gives a loud series of “tjip” and “teeeuw” notes. Hunter’s Sunbird differs from the similar Scarlet-chested Sunbird by having a violet rump and shoulder patches and having a black central throat (not iridescent green).

Plain, pale brownish bulbul. Endemic to very specialized habitat in South India. Only found in hills with dry rocky scrub and boulders, co-occurring locally with the more widespread White-browed Bulbul throughout its range. Although both species have a yellow vent and can sound similar, Yellow-throated can be distinguished by its yellow head that contrasts with its whitish underparts. Usually occurring in pairs, it tends to rove along regular circuits, often perching on exposed rocks and boulders. Voice like White-browed’s, but more melodious and higher in pitch.

A fairly small, slim weaver with a chunky bill. Always shows a dark bill and eye. Breeding male is distinctive, with bright yellow overall plumage and a black mask that grades into chestnut at its edges. Females, non-breeding males, and juveniles are much duller, but show streaking on the back and pale underparts. Found mainly in wetlands, though the species will range into surrounding dry savanna. Almost always found in flocks. Plumages other than the breeding male’s can be hard to separate from other weavers, but can be cautiously identified by the dark bill and eye, fairly pale overall coloration, and size and shape. Vocalizations are typical of weavers: “chek” notes and a sizzling “radio static” song.