Worstbird

A large, bulky eagle of forested hills. The small head, immensely broad wings, and large, often fanned-out tail give this bird the silhouette of a hawk on steroids when in flight. When perched, the thin upright crest separates this species from any hawk. Adults are dark brown above with thick brown bars on the belly and vertical black streaks on the throat. Juveniles are paler below, with brown upperparts showing neat pale-edge feathers and mostly pale head, lightly stippled or streaked with brown.

Meadowlark of bunch grass lands of E Argentina and Uruguay. Very similar to the more widespread and common Long-tailed Meadowlark, but in Pampas note the less contrasting, brownish upperparts of male and dark underwings of both sexes. Flight song a quick series of raspy, metallic whistles.

Found in North Africa and the Canary Islands in woodlands and gardens. More intense indigo-blue on the back and crown than Eurasian Blue Tit without green tones and with a narrower pale eyestripe. Some subspecies lack the white wingbar. Varied repertoire of calls and extensive song variation between island subspecies.

A large dark hummingbird of forest edges, plantations, and gardens. Its black underparts, iridescent red cheeks, and red-purple tail are unique within its range. Note that females and immatures of this species are not as vivid as males. Call is a sharp “tsic,” given individually or in a series.

Male is distinctive, small and largely black with fine white streaks on underparts, a white chest spot, a short white brow, and a pale base to undertail. Female is olive above and buffy below, with a more richly colored throat and a short, bold buffy brow. Immature male resembles female, but has streaked underparts and rufous-edged feathers on upperparts. Singles and pairs inhabit lower understory of lowland forest. Confined to Damar island. Thin, high-pitched calls include “tzit-tzit-tzit.” Gives a short song, “tzeee-tzeeee-tzooo” or “tzeeee-tzoooo,” the first note or two higher in pitch.