Strange Weaver

A medium-sized prion. The dark “M” across the back is found in all the prion species, but is noticeably less pronounced on the Slender-billed Prion. Slender-billed Prion has a very pale face, prominent white eyebrow, and very narrow black tip to the upper tail. As suggested by its name, the Slender-billed Prion has the thinnest and least robust bill of the prion species. Breeds on islands in the southern Indian Ocean, the Falklands, and around subantarctic South America while ranging throughout southern oceans during the nonbreeding season. Very difficult to distinguish from other prion species at sea, but distinguishable with careful observation of all described features.

This chunky bird is found in the Andes from Venezuela to Peru. It is olive above and white below with grayish flanks. The head is boldly striped with black and gray. Sexes similar. Pairs forage in the understory of montane forest, edges, and second growth, often on or very close to the ground. Typically occurs from around 1,500–3,000 m, but can locally range lower to about 500 m.

An impressive long-tailed species of wooded habitats including shade coffee plantations. Typically found foraging in dense vegetation from understory to canopy; can be found sunning in the open at first light with its tail spread. Note this species long straight narrow bill, brilliant red eyering, gray chest, and buff-orange belly. The Bay-breasted Cuckoo is similarly shaped but is larger with a maroon chest and short curved bill. The Mangrove Cuckoo is smaller with a smaller curved bill and a black mask. Secretive, but not shy, this species is often first detected by its voice: a long, rapid, ratcheting “keh-keh-keh…” Also gives a low “craaa” and a sharp “chek.”