Buff-throated Apalis

Often draws attention to its presence by its song: an ascending sequence of “kwa” notes, similar to Green-backed Trogon, but faster. Two subspecies occur in Brazil, Paraguay, and northeastern Argentina with limited geographical overlap that vary in the color of the breast and eyering; the southern one has a red belly and eyering, while the northern one has a yellow belly and eyering. The males of both subspecies have a violet-blue head and breast, a green back, and a white undertail. Females have a dull gray breast and the undertail is gray with white tips. Found in the middle to upper levels of forests and woodlands.

A large grayish songbird that shows considerable plumage variation throughout its range. Regularly found flocking in forested habitats as well as more open environments such as farmland and cities, where its loud vocalizations, long tail, and undulating flight make it conspicuous and distinctive. The Taiwan subspecies (harteri) is gray above, pale below, with chestnut extending from cheek to underparts, where it extends down the belly in streaks. Varied calls are loud and shrill.

Small, sprightly bird of mixed-species flocks in the rainforest canopy. Note plain appearance with unmarked olive-green wings and back that contrast with buffy face and chest. Forages in leaf clusters at the ends of high branches, often hanging upside-down. Unlikely to be seen in forest understory or away from flocks. Delivers short, snappy song over and over while foraging.