As 2019 draws to a close, I enjoy reflecting on some of my very favorite bird sightings over the years. Over a long, long span of watching birds, probably five avian species stand out from the rest.

Like the Andean cock-of-the-rock. I had sought after this bird for several years before finally seeing one in Peru. With its feathered head crest resembling a Roman helmet, and its brilliant red-orange coloring, this is one lovely specimen.

Next best sighting was a resplendent quetzal, a bird with a ma...