Golden-backed Bishop

A secretive, but not shy, inhabitant of dense thickets in a wide variety of habitats from wet forests to dry scrublands and gardens. Dark gray to black body combined with an orange-red eyebrow, throat, and vent are unique within its range. It is often heard before seen. Song is an unimpressive series of high-pitched “zit” or “seet” notes, sometimes followed by high thin buzz. Call similar to individual notes from song.

Strikingly patterned male is unmistakable with his jet-black face and breast, white cheek patch, dark rust-brown collar, and bright white spots. Brownish female has a small orange nape patch, pale throat, and dense black-and-white markings all over the body; compare with larger Gray Francolin. Occurs in dry grasslands, agricultural land, and weedy fields. Shier than other francolins; more often heard than seen. Usually solitary or in pairs. Male call is a peculiar, metallic-sounding “keek, keek, kek-ke-kek.” Native to Asia, from Turkey east to far eastern India and northern Myanmar; introduced to Hawaii.

Fairly large woodpecker. A usually rare inhabitant of extensive humid forests. Note cinnamon face, red head with a prominent crest, and white stripes on the side of the neck. Solid black back and wings, and heavily barred below with a pale rump. Males have a red moustache. A mimic of the much larger Robust Woodpecker.