Spot-winged Thrush

A stunning pheasant species endemic to Taiwan, the male a rich slaty blue with white markings and red facial skin, the female rich brown with extensive pale feather edges. Generally retiring, foraging quietly in the undergrowth of montane forests, but occasionally seen in the open, particularly in places where fed. Usually seen singly, in pairs, or in small family units (female with young). In breeding season, males drum with wings and give shrill whistling calls. Male lacks white back and tail of Swinhoe’s Pheasant; female has dark bill, grayish legs, pale markings below, and graduated, pointy tail, unlike female Swinhoe’s.

Small yellowish finch with prominent wingbars. Male is attractive and distinctive, with a yellow face and breast offset by a black cap and small chin patch. Female streaky overall, often with yellowish tones; note especially the yellow wing and tail flashes of both sexes. Inhabits mixed and coniferous woodland and forest; also found in parks and gardens, and visits seed feeders. Often in flocks, mainly in the autumn and winter, gathering at good food sources. Listen for twittering, buzzing vocalizations, including nasal, rising “tuohweee” and dry chittering.

A long-tailed, red-billed parrot, mostly lime-green apart from a paler collar, a marginally darker head, and a yellow-green patch on the breast. In flight, shows yellow underwings. Juveniles are duller, with a brown bill. Restricted to the island of Flores, where small groups inhabit forested foothills. Found at higher elevations than Coconut Lorikeet, and lacks the dark blue head and the red on the underparts. Vocal, giving shrill calls typical of lorikeets: “skreeeee.”