Crossley's Ground-Thrush

Very large, spectacular, and aggressive hummingbird of humid evergreen forest in highlands and foothills, descending locally and seasonally to lowlands in southeastern Mexico. Feeds at all levels at flowers and at times in canopy of roadside trees. Note the very large size, thick arched bill, and big, flashy white tail corners. Male’s amazing purple plumage often looks blackish overall, but when it catches the light—wow!

Large pigeon endemic to New Zealand with distinctive blue-green iridescent plumage, white belly, and red eye. Makes conspicuous display flights in breeding season; often seen feeding on heavily fruiting trees or fresh leaves and flower buds in spring. Widespread where food is available. Only emits soft “oo” calls, but note distinctive wingbeat sound, especially when alighting or taking off. Chatham Island Pigeon, the only similar species, is larger and confined to Chatham Islands.

Small songbird with long, pale-tipped tail, slim bill. Grayish brown above, pale below, with striking red-brown rump and white throat with black border, speckled at lower edge. Frequently cocks and fans tail. Actively forages near the ground in wetter areas with dense vegetation, including mangroves. Song is a short, descending series of high-pitched squeaks. Calls include a metallic “pink!” Previously considered the same species as the now-split “Rufous Fantail.”