Pale-shouldered Cicadabird

Handsome grassland bird found from the southwestern US to central Mexico. It was long considered a subspecies of the widespread Eastern Meadowlark, but recent research has shown that it should be treated as a distinct species. In the limited area where their ranges meet, note that Chihuahuan Meadowlark has paler flanks and more white in the tail. Separating Chihuahuan Meadowlark and Western Meadowlark is a common ID challenge as their ranges mostly overlap. Voice is often the safest bet. Chihuahuan Meadowlark has a simpler, less gurgled song and its typical call note is a sharp “zit” (not a low “chuck”). Silent birds can be identified if the tail is seen well. Chihuahuan Meadowlark’s outer four tail feathers are almost completely white, whereas the white in Western Meadowlark’s tail is mostly restricted to the outer three feathers. Chihuahuan Meadowlark’s cheek also tends to be paler, though this is not always a reliable feature. Prefers tall, undisturbed grassland areas, often scattered with oak trees. Feeds on the ground where it usually stays well hidden, and sometimes sits on exposed perches, especially when singing.

A small, chunky, distinctive weaver of arid habitats in northeastern Africa. Boldly marked, with a black cap, a brown back, white underparts, and black sides. Also note the whitish bill and the red eye. Found in dry thorn savanna, usually in flocks. Nests in colonies. Sometimes found alongside Gray-headed Social-Weaver. Makes metallic squeaking calls, often given by a whole group in chorus. 

Large and noisy bowerbird. Bright pink crest can be raised and lowered. Primarily gray brown with white scalloping on the back. Females are smaller and may lack the pink crest. Males create a very large bower out of twigs and grasses; it is then decorated with small objects, which are often red, green, or white. Found in northern Australia, usually in dry woodlands.