Black-chested Sparrow

Pretty member of the waxbill family that has a massive, conical bill. Males have a black belly and females a spotted one, and both sexes show an all-red head. Found in rainforest, gallery forest, thickets, and secondary habitats. Usually in pairs or small groups, in areas with thick undergrowth, and usually some grass. Sometimes on roads and paths. Vocalizations include a quiet “schpit” call and a rarely-heard whistled song. Similar to Grant’s Bluebill, but separated by all-red head. Male similar to male Black-bellied Seedcracker, but separated by its black tail and its red-and-blue rather than all-blue bill.

Small plain bird with thin bill. Upperparts brown, underparts whitish, with gray face, red eye, and distinctive patch of white in undertail. Juveniles lack red eye and have yellow gape (base of bill). Inhabits rainforest, wet forest, and surrounding habitats of eastern Australia. Song a rasping "which-is-it," very different from tinkling notes of Mangrove Gerygone.

Medium-sized accentor. Very skulking and often shy. Note the off-white eyebrow, lightly streaked neck sides, cold-toned back, and ochre-buff underparts with a paler whitish belly. Breeds in rocky alpine habitats near treeline in bushes and scrub. Song is similar to that of a Black Redstart, a clear whistle and rattle. Call is a high-pitched clear note.