Black-tailed Whistler

Large, conspicuous hummingbird of tepui highlands. Green above and rufous below. Note extensively rufous outer tail feathers, which are easily seen as birds tend to flare tail frequently. Generally common at higher elevations (above 1000 m), especially at forest edge and in lower-stature, scrubby vegetation. Feeds on nectar and pugnaciously defends patches of flowers against other hummingbirds. Not shy and will approach to investigate observers. In territorial interactions, gives a rich, sharp note, often doubled, repeated incessantly, and similar to calls of more widespread Gray-breasted Sabrewing; also gives a single, ascending, burry note, possibly as an alarm call. No other hummingbird in highland range is as large or shows as much rufous.

A distinctive swift of lowland forest that appears nearly tailless. The wings appear “pinched” at the body but are otherwise fairly straight and broad. Distinctively patterned, with a black throat, wings, and back, a white belly, a white vent, and a narrow white band on top of the rump. Vocalizations and nests are undescribed. Overall pattern is similar to Sabine’s Spinetail, but Cassin’s extremely short tail gives it a unique, forward-heavy profile.

An eye-catching waterbird found on lakes and ponds with extensive floating vegetation. Long-tailed breeding adults are striking: the large white wing patch and head contrast sharply with its black body and bright yellow neck patch. Short-tailed wintering adults and juveniles have a brown back, white underparts, and a toned-down version of the breeder's head pattern. Vocalizations include a variety of nasal clucking and purring calls; song, seldom heard, a repeated, ringing “ku-woo.”