Olive Honeyeater

A typical thrush in shape and size, but with unusual brown coloration. Varies significantly across the three islands where it occurs, and these populations may be full species. The Grand Comoro birds have plain pale brown underparts, the Moheli birds have darker blotching below, and the distinctive Anjouan birds are scaled on the underparts. Found in humid forest, secondary habitats, and plantations, mostly at higher elevations, though down to sea level in some places. The song is a typical thrush mix of whistles and quavering notes, whose exact structure varies on the different islands. Also gives “pik” notes, short trills, and a high-pitched “seet.”  

Inconspicuous and uncommon woodpecker of coniferous forests, particularly spruces, often at high elevations (especially in the Rockies). Prefers recently burned areas or bogs with many dead trees. Distinctive habit of flaking bark off trees in search of grubs; behavior shared only by Black-backed Woodpecker. Generally dark with barred flanks and subtle white spots on wings and back. Face is black with white stripes above and below the eye and white speckles on the forehead. Eastern birds darker than western birds. Males show yellow patch on crown; sexes otherwise alike. Most similar to Black-backed Woodpecker but American Three-toed always shows some white on back and more white on head. Listen for soft, hollow "pweek" call and slow drumming that fades at the end.

A medium-sized barbet with uniformly white underparts, a black throat patch, a red forehead, and a striking yellow-and-white eyebrow. Pairs reside in semi-desert, savanna, and gardens, preferring thickets and more treed areas with suitable for nest cavities. Calls a distinctive melancholy “poooop” 6–7 times, often accompanied with a nasal, repeated “nyeeeeaar”. Miombo Barbet differs by lacking the dark throat patch and by having heavily-spotted underparts and a yellowish breast. The two species hybridize in southern Zambia.