Identification
A rare and striking finch-like bird restricted to cloud forest of the Andes of Ecuador and southern Colombia. It is black with an olive breast and belly and a chestnut crown; the bold, white “spectacles” set it apart from any other bird in range. Sexes look alike. Typically encountered alone or in pairs; stays low, and usually remains in dense cover. Often first detected by its song, which consists of a series of sweet whistles and chirps; it sings faster and mixes in rapid trills when agitated.