Rennell Gerygone

Large wren usually found in small groups, less often in pairs. Mainly found in thorn forest and dry scrubby habitats. Note boldly barred wings and tail and russet nape patch. At most only limited overlap with the formerly conspecific Rufous-backed Wren; in Russet-backed the barring and spotting on the upperparts is more prevalent, and whatever rufous coloration is present is generally not as bright. Often detected by its marvelous loud song, often given by multiple birds at once, which consists of various nasal and whistled notes, with some harsh elements mixed in.

Medium-sized drab brown endemic of Micronesia’s Caroline Islands, where it inhabits a range of habitats, from native forest to degraded coastal scrub and patches of tall grass. Capable of persisting on even tiny coral atolls if there is sufficient vegetation. Often forages in dense bushes or grasses, but also ventures onto the ground and into the treetops. Song is a rather pleasant series of whistles, warbles, trills and chatters, often with repeating notes.

Greenish medium-sized woodpecker with bright red wings and crown. Also note striking yellow crest, cream-speckled sides, and pale blue-gray “spectacles”. Male has a greener face than the female, and has a maroon “mustache” stripe. Similar to Checker-throated and Banded Woodpeckers, but note Crimson-winged’s red crown and greenish body. Inhabits both primary and secondary forests, from lowlands into lower montane areas, as well as plantations and logged tracts; favors areas with scattered and isolated tall trees. Forages on trunks and large branches in upperstory, often in distanced pairs or mixed flocks. Call is a high-pitched “kee-dee”, with the second note often being repeated several times, occasionally with a descending quality.