Silver-eared Laughingthrush

Tiny, bubbly, buffy-colored wren of dense grassy or shrubby habitats. Fairly common but locally distributed from central Mexico to the southernmost tip of South America; surely comprises multiple species. Occurs from open grasslands and marshes at sea level up to paramo in the high Andes. Generally secretive, but perches up when singing. Generally pale brownish with complex patterning on upperparts; compare with much plainer House Wren. Variable voice, usually including harsh chips, buzzes, and trills.

Distinctive and charismatic little bird with a bright orangey face and breast (easily hidden when facing away). Juvenile is very different, with bold pale buffy spotting on the back and breast. Found in a wide range of wooded habitats, including forests, gardens, hedges in farmland, and heathland, usually fairly near cover. Hops perkily on the ground, pausing to look around, often flicking its wings and cocking its tail. Also feeds by dropping to the ground from low perches, snatching up prey and flying back up to a shady perch. High-pitched song is highly variable, and incorporates a range of warbles and trills. Subsong is a rambling warbling series often incorporating odd fizzing and twittering notes. Calls include a dry “tic”, often given in bursts, as well as a thin, high-pitched, descending alarm call.

Large cinnamon-colored ovenbird with piercing yellow eyes and a long gray crest. Found in gallery forest, near marshes and woodlands; often near human habitations. Mostly forages on the ground, but also in trees; builds a large stick nest. Song is a loud duet: an accelerating series ending with a rattle mixed with “chew” notes.