Black Spinetail

With its gray head and snow-white brow stripe, this species is fairly distinctive for a leaf warbler. Active and agile inhabitant of foothill to montane forests, where it often joins mixed-species flocks. Ashen-gray head distinguishes it from most other leaf warblers; Buff-barred Warbler occasionally has a grayish head but has a yellowish brow stripe instead of a white one. Frequently hovers, during which bright white tail edges are often visible. Song is a short burst of sharp piercing whistles. Call is a high, sharp “tzit” note.

A small flycatcher-like bird with a bold dark eye on a plain face, a pale eye-ring, olive-green upperparts, and solid yellow underparts. Singles or pairs sit upright within understory of forest, woodland, and plantations in lowlands and mountains, often attending mixed-species flocks. Separated from Gray-headed Canary-Flycatcher by yellow chin and lack of gray head and breast. Told from Yellow-bellied Whistler by eye-ring, absence of white throat, and slimmer bill. Gives a simple high-pitched whistled song that rises and falls: “swit-soo-swit-soo.” Also gives a short, squelching “ti-rip” trill.

This canary is typical in its appearance but unusual in its papyrus-dwelling habits. The male and female are similar but the male is more boldly marked, especially on the face. Found in papyrus swamp and adjacent habitats. Uncommon and inconspicuous. The song is a complex mix of quiet twitters and whistles. Similar to Western Citril, but separated by the lack of a yellow eyebrow. Extremely similar to Southern Citril, and best separated by the more bulging, pinkish bill.