Red-throated Parrotfinch

Fairly large, plain cisticola. Note the rufous cap, pale underparts, and two bands across the tip of the tail, one pale and one black. Found in a variety of savanna habitats, including miombo. The distinctive song is a high, rising trill, given from a prominent perch. The call is an agitated, repeated “chit.” As with other cisticolas, habitat and vocalizations are important to identification. Fairly similar to Whistling Cisticola, but has a rufous cap.

Rather generic-looking mid-sized bird with a dark back and pale underparts. In good light, the upperparts show purple iridescence. Can show a small white patch at the top of the closed wing. Males are pale buff below, while females are orange. Found in humid forest, mostly around clearings and edge. Frequently joins mixed-species feeding flocks. Gives a short song of sweet whistles and a dry “tik” call, usually in flight. Distinguished from other hyliotas by the lack of large white patches in the wings.

Strikingly pretty small finch. Males are largely red and covered in white spots with dark wings and tail. Females are gray with a rufous rump. Both sexes have a red beak. Gives a very musical song a high "teei" call. Found in grassy areas close to water and often near human habitation, particularly areas with wet rice paddies.