Rufous-crowned Babbler

Medium-sized woodpecker that is not well named; rarely is the slight red wash on the belly visible! Instead, note the black-and-white barring on the back and wings, plain buffy breast and face, and red nape. On adult males, look for the red extending onto the crown. In flight, look for the white rump. Found in forested and suburban areas, typically preferring deciduous trees. Slowly expanding its range northward. Visits feeders, especially for suet. Nests in cavities.

A nondescript songbird that skulks in taiga undergrowth, where very difficult to see well. Breeds on Hokkaido, Sakhalin Island, and the Kuril Islands. Very similar to Gray’s Grasshopper-Warbler, which breeds on mainland of far northeastern Asia and has a different song. Migrants very difficult to distinguish from Gray’s, but Sakhalin averages warmer-toned and browner, with perhaps a slightly paler throat. Sings from deep cover, day and night, a hurried, loud, choppy song.

Small pale parrot of inland Australia woodlands, often found in mulga and acacia scrubland. Gray-brown scaly upperparts set off by unique pastel pink underparts and blue underwing and rump. In flight, note also the blue outer upperwing (primary flight feathers and their coverts). Often observed coming to drink: flocks usually visit a favorite water hole at dawn and dusk. Feeds on the ground in small groups but sometimes in large flocks of 50 or more birds. Calls include piercing, high-pitched whistles and chattering.