Black-thighed Falconet Microhierax fringillarius

Dwarfed by shrikes and thrushes, this tiny raptor looks almost parakeet-like as it perches on exposed branches. Coloration distinctive: birds are black above with a white chest and rusty orange belly. Black forehead “earmuffs” are unique among the region’s raptors. Inhabits lowland and foothill forests, where it is generally fairly uncommon. Rather social for a raptor, often seen preening and feeding together in small flocks.