White-throated Seedeater

A medium-sized, uniformly-colored wren found in the subtropical zone of the Andes from Colombia to northern Peru. Plain brown overall with dark barring on wings and tail. Similar to Rufous Wren, but duller brown and typically found at lower elevations. Occurs from around 1,500-2,500m. Small parties forage in the understory of cloud forest, often around bamboo thickets. Can be skulky and difficult to see well. Sometimes follows mixed-species flocks. Listen for the harsh chattering calls.

A small sunbird with a short, slightly curved bill. Males are dark above and bright white below with an iridescent blue-green head and chest. Females are gray above and white below with an indistinct white eyebrow. Found very locally in forest and lush woodland at low elevations, mostly in the canopy. Female is similar to female violet-backed sunbirds, but is separated by the smaller size and the lack of a yellow wash on the underparts. The most distinctive vocalization is a two-part “twee-tree,” but also gives typical jumbled sunbird song. 

Spectacular, large, and often conspicuous jay of tropical lowland forests, plantations, and semiopen areas with hedges and tall trees; prefers drier areas, but locally in rather humid situations. Usually in small groups and can be surprisingly inconspicuous if feeding quietly. At other times, unavoidably noisy and impossible to overlook. No similar species in range. Note crest, white face and throat, and long white-edged tail.