Plain-backed Sparrow

Squat, cryptically-plumaged shorebird with a very long bill. Inhabits a wide range of wetland habitats, from damp meadows to saltmarshes. Mostly inconspicuous, feeding in muddy ground by probing with its bill, usually near reeds or other grassy cover. Often not seen until flushed, when it usually rises from fairly close range with a rough rasping call. Breeding birds are more conspicuous, perching on fence posts. In display flight, birds stoop from high overhead and produce a pulsating, bleating sound from air passing through their fanned tail. In Asia, beware of extremely similar Pin-tailed, Swinhoe's, and Latham's Snipes, all of which lack the white trailing edge of Common and have a slower, less erratic flight.

Secretive, rare medium-sized antshrike of the dense forests of the Cordillera Divisor of remote western Brazil and eastern Peru. Males are dark gray with a bluish tint to the back and upperparts, while females are bluish-gray above and brownish-orange below. Inhabits the lower levels of forests, where it is more often heard than seen; voice is a fast series of notes increasing in speed before finishing with a final higher note.

Plain yellowish bird with a weak crest and pale brow; doesn’t look like any other tit. Darker above than below, but largely lacks eye-catching physical features. Often joins mixed-species flocks in small groups. Inhabits montane evergreen forests, where it sticks to the middle and upper levels of the vegetation. Calls are high and thin with a lisping quality; song is a series of one constantly repeated note.