Western Crested Berrypecker

A dapper slate-colored flycatcher with a distinctly pale throat and eyebrow, often found at the forest’s edge along roads, in clearings, and even in farmlands. A widespread but sometimes overlooked resident, sometimes occurring up into the mountains, that builds its own nest inside old abandoned weaver nests. Can be confused with other African flycatchers, but note Dusky-blue Flycatcher’s upright posture, habitat, and pale throat and lores. Song is variable, consisting of clear whistles and other calls given in groups of 2-10 notes. Calls include high-pitched “sip sip” and buzzy “zrt” notes.

A mostly green parrot restricted to Buru that has rackets extending beyond its square-shaped tail. Also note the silvery-gray bill, purple rear crown in males, and yellow base of undertail. Juveniles lack rackets. Pairs and small groups inhabit montane forest, sometimes roaming to cultivated areas. The only parrot on the island with tail rackets. When rackets cannot be seen, the green head, silvery bill, and yellow vent separate it from all other local parrots. Gives loud screeches and repeated ear-splitting “weep” notes.

One of North America's most sought-after sparrows due to its small breeding range and secretive habits. Breeds in extensive tall grasslands; winters in similar grassy habitats. Pale tan overall with crisp black streaking on breast. Warm buffy face is brightest to the rear of the eyebrow and broken up by thin black markings. Easy to see when perched, singing its high-pitched tinkling trill; otherwise shy and difficult to locate. Population is declining due to development of prime grassland breeding habitat.