Nicobar Serpent-Eagle

This is the only montane laughingthrush in its range and hence unmistakable. It is dull brown above, with gray breast and head and a pale rufous belly. It has a black chin connecting to a black eye-line and a prominent white eyebrow. Inhabits stunted montane forests, where it is seen in pairs or noisy flocks, producing a melodious “pee-kooo” song and several other chatters intermingled with musical notes. Heard more often than seen; its songs and calls are usually the first indication of its presence.

A common understory bird found in the undergrowth or on the ground in forests of all types, from the lowlands into the foothills. The reddish-brown back and tail are noticeable when the bird flies away in the undergrowth, but look also for the white undersides, dark gray legs, and gray face. This alethe’s fiery crest is hard to see in the field and often appears as a reddish-brown crown stripe. Sometimes imitates other species, including illadopsises. Distinguished from Brown-chested Alethe by its plain gray face, dark legs, and reddish crown stripe. Gives a distinctive two-parted whistle, “go where?”, with a distinct pause between the notes.

Large dark bird of undisturbed rainforest. Its red, crested bill is easily recognizable. It has a dark body that appears iridescent navy blue in good light, with light red legs and a buffy tail tip. Found on the ground or in trees, sometimes quite high, in mature rainforest, usually singly or in pairs. Can be quite secretive, especially in areas with a lot of human activity. Gives a sharp, metallic “pick” call that is easy to overlook, as well as low booming calls around dawn and dusk.