Rusty-browed Warbling Finch

Small flycatcher found in subtropical and temperate zones of the Andes from Venezuela to Peru. Like most chat-tyrants, has a very bold eyebrow. Yellow-bellied is the only chat-tyrant that looks mostly yellow and is especially bright on the belly and throat. Note rufous wingbars. Singles or pairs are typically found in the understory of cloud forest and edges, especially near bamboo, but can be inconspicuous.

A large weaver with a long, thin pointed bill. The male has a pale eye, and during the breeding season a brownish wash to the face. The female has a brown eye and an olive-brown belly. The species occupies open country, where it often breeds in mixed-species colonies over water or in large isolated trees. The chattering and rasping song is long and complex. The smaller Southern Brown-throated Weaver has a chunkier bill than Cape Weaver; its male has a better defined brown throat and its female has a white belly. African Golden-Weaver has reddish eyes, and Holub’s Golden-Weaver has an unstreaked yellowish back.

Adult males are striking royal blue above with bright orange throat and breast and bright white belly. Females are paler overall; grayish with orange on breast and sides of neck, and white belly. Favors fields and open woods. Often in small groups. Frequently perches on wires or fence posts. Nests in cavities. Listen for its soft, chortling calls.