Melanesian Flycatcher

Medium-sized, social black-and-white wren Dull white overall with dark streaking above, black dotting below, and a broad white eyebrow. Wings and tail black barred white; eyes yellowish white. A social species that lives in small and animated groups. Locally common in dry to moist woodlands, gallery forests, parks, and trees in urban areas. Very vocal, mainly in duet, with fast scolding and scratchy notes. No other similar species in range.

A sparrow-sized honeyeater with a downcurved bill, a prominent white ear mark, plain brown upperparts, and pale underparts with distinct dark mottling on the breast. Inhabits open coastal areas with canegrass and scattered trees, and also mangroves and coconut plantations. Generally occurs within vegetation close to watercourses. Combination of streaked chest, pale ear patch, and plain brown upperparts separate it from all other New Guinea honeyeaters. Vocalizations include harsh chattering and nasal “weet-weet-weet” calls, as well as a sharp “jit” note.

A small, slow-moving species that prefers dry brush and scrublands where it typically feeds low and sometimes even on the ground; sometimes found at higher elevations where it can be found feeding in or near the canopy in vine tangles. The Flat-billed Vireo is a relatively plain species, with bold white wingbars, and whitish eyes. The Greater Antillean Elaenia has a smaller more pointed bill, darker eyes, and is usually found perched upright or flycatching. Flat-billed Vireos sing a “we-we-we-we-we…,” typically in a series of six to ten notes given at a rate of about seven per second, but sometimes given more rapidly at about twelve notes per second. Calls include a staccato ratcheting given by agitated birds.