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The Ocellated Turkeys at Tikal are used to people, which allows great opportunity for close study -- and close photographs! Photo by participants David and Judy Smith.
A fun tour to Guatemala and a real adventure, wouldn't you agree? I love this tour for its mix of excellent birding, historical sites (Tikal and the colonial city of Antigua), and cultural treats (experiencing life on a working coffee finca). And you still need to throw in erupting volcanoes, dramatic morning sunrises, and crossing Lake Atitlan in a gale! Sorry about getting everyone wet, but we dried quickly birding the warm slopes of the lake in search of Belted Flycatcher. Now, doesn't that just sound cool?
But you came for the birds, mostly, and bird we did. There were lots of favorites, including Resplendent Quetzal (Sid especially liked this one), King Vulture (Bonnie's favorite), Fulvous Owl (wow!), the oh-so-cute Wine-throated Hummingbird singing his little heart out (Judy just melted), Pheasant Cuckoo (I will have to agree with David on this one; amazing experience!), Gray-necked Wood-Rail (Mary Lou's favorite), and what about Rick? Do you remember the Chestnut-sided Shrike-Vireo? Hard not to. However, it was pretty unanimous within the group: the "frosty-headed" Pink-headed Warbler won by a landslide.
I want to thank you again for a fun, enjoyable trip. Guatemala is like a second home to me, so I was happy to be able to share it with you. Thanks again to Bitty and Renato, Miguel (Tikal), Josue (Tarrales), Don Chus (Los Andes), and Fernando (Finca Las Nubes), our generous and knowledgeable hosts and guides. And last, but certainly not least, Marco, our capable driver. All the best for a birdy 2016!
-- Jesse (aka Motmot) from Lima, Peru
KEYS FOR THIS LIST
One of the following keys may be shown in brackets for individual species as appropriate: * = heard only, I = introduced, E = endemic, N = nesting, a = austral migrant, b = boreal migrant
The ancient Mayan ruins at Tikal offer a fine chance to combine birding with culture. Photo by participant Mary Lou Barritt.
Tinamidae (Tinamous)
GREAT TINAMOU (Tinamus major) – Fantastic views of a bird at Tikal NP. It approached the group close, then slowly wandered away.
Anatidae (Ducks, Geese, and Waterfowl)
BLUE-WINGED TEAL (Anas discors) – A couple on Peten-Itza.
LESSER SCAUP (Aythya affinis) – Just one in flight on Lake Atitlan.
Cracidae (Guans, Chachalacas, and Curassows)
PLAIN CHACHALACA (Ortalis vetula) [*]
WHITE-BELLIED CHACHALACA (Ortalis leucogastra) – We called in one at Las Nubes, but they were pretty common around Los Tarrales.
CRESTED GUAN (Penelope purpurascens) – Both slopes, but seen well at Finca Los Andes.
HIGHLAND GUAN (Penelopina nigra) – Lots heard and seen at different places on the Pacific Slope. We enjoyed their high-pitched whistle and their cracking flight display. [E]
Odontophoridae (New World Quail)
BUFFY-CROWNED WOOD-PARTRIDGE (Dendrortyx leucophrys) – For those at Cayala on the first morning in Guatemala City.
SPOTTED WOOD-QUAIL (Odontophorus guttatus) – Some glimpsed this bird at Los Andes. Certainly heard in good numbers.
Phasianidae (Pheasants, Grouse, and Allies)
OCELLATED TURKEY (Meleagris ocellata) – Nice looks at Tikal NP.
The Roadside Hawk is widespread throughout much of Central and South America. We saw them regularly in the Peten. Photo by participants David and Judy Smith.
Podicipedidae (Grebes)
PIED-BILLED GREBE (Podilymbus podiceps) – On Lake Peten-Itza.
Phalacrocoracidae (Cormorants and Shags)
NEOTROPIC CORMORANT (Phalacrocorax brasilianus) – Good numbers on Lake Peten-Itza.
Pelecanidae (Pelicans)
BROWN PELICAN (Pelecanus occidentalis) – Miguel said these appear on Peten-Itza just before the big rains. There were four on Peten-Itza and another juvenile on Lake Atitlan where much more uncommon.
Ardeidae (Herons, Egrets, and Bitterns)
BARE-THROATED TIGER-HERON (Tigrisoma mexicanum) – One was at the small pond behind the visitors center at Tikal.
GREAT BLUE HERON (Ardea herodias) – One migrant flying over Finca Los Andes skirting Volcan Atitlan. Pretty cool to see.
GREAT EGRET (Ardea alba) – Good numbers throughout the tour.
SNOWY EGRET (Egretta thula) – Slightly less common than Great Egret.
LITTLE BLUE HERON (Egretta caerulea) – Singles at the start of the tour. Far less common by numbers than the other egrets/herons.
CATTLE EGRET (Bubulcus ibis) – Common on both slopes.
GREEN HERON (Butorides virescens) – Just in the Peten around Peten-Itza.
Cathartidae (New World Vultures)
BLACK VULTURE (Coragyps atratus) – Nearly every day of the tour.
TURKEY VULTURE (Cathartes aura) – Very common. Most days.
KING VULTURE (Sarcoramphus papa) – Always a glorious sight.
Accipitridae (Hawks, Eagles, and Kites)
WHITE-TAILED KITE (Elanus leucurus) – A pair on the drive to Antigua.
BLACK HAWK-EAGLE (Spizaetus tyrannus) – One high flyer that soared over us while at the Las Nubes lookout. We heard it from a mile away!
ORNATE HAWK-EAGLE (Spizaetus ornatus) [*]
SNAIL KITE (Rostrhamus sociabilis) – A couple on Lake Peten-Itza where not common.
SHARP-SHINNED HAWK (WHITE-BREASTED) (Accipiter striatus chionogaster) – Several soaring over the coffee forest at Finca Las Nubes. One soared past us fairly close at the lookout.
GREAT BLACK HAWK (Buteogallus urubitinga) – One adult seen well at Finca Los Andes and again at Tarrales.
ROADSIDE HAWK (Rupornis magnirostris) – Fairly common in the Peten region.
WHITE HAWK (SNOWY) (Pseudastur albicollis ghiesbreghti) – One seen briefly at Finca Los Tarrales. This subspecies is the one found on the Pacific Slope.
GRAY HAWK (Buteo plagiatus) – A few throughout the tour.
BROAD-WINGED HAWK (Buteo platypterus) – Also, singles on several days while on the Pacific Slope. A common wintering raptor in NCA.
SHORT-TAILED HAWK (Buteo brachyurus) – A juvenile was seen at Finca Los Andes and another individual at Finca Las Nubes.
RED-TAILED HAWK (Buteo jamaicensis) – Seen at Fuentes Georginas and again at Finca Las Nubes.
Rallidae (Rails, Gallinules, and Coots)
RUDDY CRAKE (Laterallus ruber) [*]
This Gray-necked Wood-Rail proved particularly confiding. Photo by participants David and Judy Smith.
GRAY-NECKED WOOD-RAIL (Aramides cajaneus) – Nice looks at several places in the Peten including at the small pond behind the visitor's center.
PURPLE GALLINULE (Porphyrio martinicus) – Several on the edges of Lake Peten-Itza.
COMMON GALLINULE (Gallinula galeata) – Just one at Lake Peten-Itza.
AMERICAN COOT (Fulica americana) – Good numbers on Peten-Itza and again at Lake Atitlan. Some of these birds may be residents.
Recurvirostridae (Stilts and Avocets)
BLACK-NECKED STILT (Himantopus mexicanus) – Three on the edge of Lake Peten-Itza.
Charadriidae (Plovers and Lapwings)
COLLARED PLOVER (Charadrius collaris) – You guys found them on the tarmac in Flores. Nice work!
KILLDEER (Charadrius vociferus) – Also on the tarmac in Flores.
Jacanidae (Jacanas)
NORTHERN JACANA (Jacana spinosa) – Good numbers around the edge of Lake Peten-Itza.
Scolopacidae (Sandpipers and Allies)
SPOTTED SANDPIPER (Actitis macularius) – One flying along the edge of Lake Atitlan.
SOLITARY SANDPIPER (Tringa solitaria) – This and the following species were seen nearly together along the muddy edge of Lake Peten-Itza.
LEAST SANDPIPER (Calidris minutilla)
Laridae (Gulls, Terns, and Skimmers)
LAUGHING GULL (Leucophaeus atricilla) – Several on Lake Peten-Itza and Lake Atitlan. Most of these will be first-cycle birds (born on the Gulf Coast of the US) wintering to NCA. Some cross to the Pacific Side.
ROYAL TERN (Thalasseus maximus) – A few over Lake Peten-Itza.
Columbidae (Pigeons and Doves)
ROCK PIGEON (Columba livia) – Common in cities and town. [I]
The skulking Pheasant Cuckoo can be particularly tough to see, so finding a displaying bird at Tikal was a real treat. Photo by participants David and Judy Smith.
SCALED PIGEON (Patagioenas speciosa) – Several at Tikal NP.
RED-BILLED PIGEON (Patagioenas flavirostris) – Good numbers on the Pacific side.
BAND-TAILED PIGEON (Patagioenas fasciata) – Small numbers on the higher slopes above Finca Las Nubes.
INCA DOVE (Columbina inca) – Seen at Finca Los Tarrales.
RUDDY GROUND-DOVE (Columbina talpacoti) – Seen in the Peten and again on the Pacific side.
WHITE-TIPPED DOVE (Leptotila verreauxi) – The common Leptotila on both slopes.
GRAY-HEADED DOVE (Leptotila plumbeiceps) [*]
WHITE-FACED QUAIL-DOVE (Zentrygon albifacies) [E*]
WHITE-WINGED DOVE (Zenaida asiatica) – Seen in the Peten (where a recent arrival) and again in the Guatemala City area.
Cuculidae (Cuckoos)
SQUIRREL CUCKOO (MIDDLE AMERICA) (Piaya cayana thermophila) – Mostly heard, but seen well in the Peten.
PHEASANT CUCKOO (Dromococcyx phasianellus) – Amazing experience with this species. Very difficult to see, but we had a unique experience with a bird doing a display on the ground making strange "wind-up toy" sounds. Tikal is the place to see this species!
Strigidae (Owls)
WHISKERED SCREECH-OWL (Megascops trichopsis) – Another fantastic experience calling in a bird with a mouse in its mouth! How often does that happen?!
VERMICULATED SCREECH-OWL (GUATEMALAN) (Megascops guatemalae guatemalae) [*]
GREAT HORNED OWL (Bubo virginianus) [*]
A Fulvous Owl at Finca Las Nubes put on a great show. Wow! Photo by participants David and Judy Smith.
FERRUGINOUS PYGMY-OWL (Glaucidium brasilianum) [*]
MOTTLED OWL (Ciccaba virgata) – Nice looks at a bird along the old runway at Tikal.
BLACK-AND-WHITE OWL (Ciccaba nigrolineata) – A pair on a day roost at Finca Los Tarrales. Thank you, Josue!
FULVOUS OWL (Strix fulvescens) – Wow. Simply superb. A great evening experience at Finca Las Nubes.
Caprimulgidae (Nightjars and Allies)
LESSER NIGHTHAWK (Chordeiles acutipennis) – Several in the mist at Finca Las Nubes, but again at Finca Los Tarrales.
COMMON PAURAQUE (Nyctidromus albicollis) – Fairly common on both slopes.
YUCATAN POORWILL (Nyctiphrynus yucatanicus) [*]
MEXICAN WHIP-POOR-WILL (Antrostomus arizonae vermiculatus) – Nice looks in the spotlight while birding at Finca El Pilar.
Nyctibiidae (Potoos)
NORTHERN POTOO (Nyctibius jamaicensis) – Another nightbird seen well in the spotlight at Finca Los Tarrales.
The massive yellow eye of the Northern Potoo looks almost fake. Photo by participants David and Judy Smith.
Apodidae (Swifts)
CHESTNUT-COLLARED SWIFT (Streptoprocne rutila) – Good numbers at Finca Los Andes.
WHITE-COLLARED SWIFT (Streptoprocne zonaris) – Fairly common in the Pacific slope highlands.
VAUX'S SWIFT (Chaetura vauxi) – Common on both slopes. Nice studies at many hundreds drinking at a small reservoir at Finca Los Andes.
WHITE-THROATED SWIFT (Aeronautes saxatalis) – Seen at Finca Las Nubes where uncommon.
LESSER SWALLOW-TAILED SWIFT (Panyptila cayennensis) – Small numbers soaring over the forest at Tikal.
Trochilidae (Hummingbirds)
WHITE-NECKED JACOBIN (Florisuga mellivora) – Seen at Tikal NP.
LONG-BILLED HERMIT (Phaethornis longirostris) – One at the cabin Helaconia was nice to see closely.
STRIPE-THROATED HERMIT (Phaethornis striigularis) – Also at the cabin ornamentals.
GREEN VIOLETEAR (Colibri thalassinus) – Several in the highlands at Fuentes Georginas.
PURPLE-CROWNED FAIRY (Heliothryx barroti) – One female was perched above us during the pygmy-owl tape.
GREEN-BREASTED MANGO (Anthracothorax prevostii) – Fairly common in the Peten, and later a female at Takalik Abaj.
MAGNIFICENT HUMMINGBIRD (Eugenes fulgens) – Several in the Pacific Slope highlands.
LONG-BILLED STARTHROAT (Heliomaster longirostris) – Singles on several days, at Finca Los Andes and again at Los Tarrales.
GARNET-THROATED HUMMINGBIRD (Lamprolaima rhami) – The large one with rufous/chestnut in the wings. Seen well at Fuentes Georginas.
RUBY-THROATED HUMMINGBIRD (Archilochus colubris) – Seen a few times. A fairly common wintering hummer to NCA.
WINE-THROATED HUMMINGBIRD (Atthis ellioti) – Lovely views of a male singing at Fuentes Georginas. [E]
EMERALD-CHINNED HUMMINGBIRD (Abeillia abeillei) [E*]
SCALY-BREASTED HUMMINGBIRD (Phaeochroa cuvierii) – Rare in the Peten, but seen well at the cabin perched above the Heliconia.
RUFOUS SABREWING (Campylopterus rufus) – Nice looks at this endemic at several spots. Our first at Cabana Suiza on the way to Antigua. [E]
VIOLET SABREWING (Campylopterus hemileucurus) – Around the feeders at Finca Los Andes.
WHITE-BELLIED EMERALD (Amazilia candida) – A few around at Tikal NP.
AZURE-CROWNED HUMMINGBIRD (Amazilia cyanocephala) – Surprisingly, our only ones were at Cabana Suiza.
BERYLLINE HUMMINGBIRD (Amazilia beryllina devillei) – This endemic subspecies was seen at Cabana Suiza and again at Finca Los Tarrales. [E]
BLUE-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD (Amazilia cyanura guatemalae) – This species was seen well at Finca Los Andes and again at Finca Los Tarrales where it overlaps with the previous species. [Hybrids have been reported] [E]
RUFOUS-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD (Amazilia tzacatl) – Common on the Caribbean Slope. Nice looks at our lunch spot on Lake Peten-Itza.
This Long-tailed Hermit has its curved beak shoved way down deep into a tubular flower with a matching curve. Photo by participant Mary Lou Barritt.
CINNAMON HUMMINGBIRD (Amazilia rutila) – Singles around Finca Los Tarrales.
BLUE-THROATED GOLDENTAIL (Hylocharis eliciae) – Nice scope studies on the upper part of the property at Finca Los Tarrales.
WHITE-EARED HUMMINGBIRD (Hylocharis leucotis) – Common in the Pacific highlands.
Trogonidae (Trogons)
RESPLENDENT QUETZAL (Pharomachrus mocinno) – We worked at seeing different individuals at Finca Los Andes, but it paid off. Heard again at Finca Las Nubes.
SLATY-TAILED TROGON (Trogon massena) – Several cooperative birds at Tikal NP.
BLACK-HEADED TROGON (Trogon melanocephalus) – A bit less common than the previous species at Tikal NP.
GARTERED TROGON (Trogon caligatus) – Found on both slopes where fairly common.
MOUNTAIN TROGON (Trogon mexicanus)
COLLARED TROGON (Trogon collaris) – We worked at seeing this bird at Fuentes Georginas. They flew back and forth across the deep gorge several times.
Momotidae (Motmots)
TODY MOTMOT (Hylomanes momotula) [*]
BLUE-THROATED MOTMOT (Aspatha gularis) – Heard and glimpsed in several places, but finally got up to it well at Fuentes Georginas. [E]
BLUE-CROWNED MOTMOT (LESSON'S) (Momotus coeruliceps lessonii) – Not many around, but seen a few times.
TURQUOISE-BROWED MOTMOT (Eumomota superciliosa) [*]
Alcedinidae (Kingfishers)
BELTED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle alcyon) – One on Lake Peten-Itza.
Getting a good look at a perched nightjar is always satisfying. Check out the length of the rictal bristles on this Mexican Whip-poor-will! Photo by participants David and Judy Smith.
GREEN KINGFISHER (Chloroceryle americana) – One on Lake Peten-Itza.
Bucconidae (Puffbirds)
WHITE-WHISKERED PUFFBIRD (Malacoptila panamensis) – One stuck around for nice looks. Good spotting group.
Galbulidae (Jacamars)
RUFOUS-TAILED JACAMAR (Galbula ruficauda) – Fairly common in the Tikal forest. We saw more than a couple during our time there.
Ramphastidae (Toucans)
EMERALD TOUCANET (EMERALD) (Aulacorhynchus prasinus virescens) – The subspecies seen on the Pacific slope. Seen super well perched for a long time at Finca Los Andes.
A tiny Wine-colored Hummingbird sang from a perch at Fuentes Georginas. Photo by participants David and Judy Smith.
COLLARED ARACARI (Pteroglossus torquatus) – Both slopes where fairly common.
KEEL-BILLED TOUCAN (Ramphastos sulfuratus) – Found only on the Caribbean side, but thankfully this flashy bird was seen well. Its loud croaking is always in the distant background.
Picidae (Woodpeckers)
ACORN WOODPECKER (ACORN) (Melanerpes formicivorus lineatus) – Seen around Antigua in good numbers.
GOLDEN-FRONTED WOODPECKER (EAST MEXICO) (Melanerpes aurifrons dubius) – The subspecies seen around Tikal NP. This one shows no golden tones.
GOLDEN-FRONTED WOODPECKER (EAST MEXICO) (Melanerpes aurifrons santacruzi) – The subspecies common on the Pacific slope with lots of yellow and orange on the head.
SMOKY-BROWN WOODPECKER (Picoides fumigatus) – Our first day at Tikal NP.
HAIRY WOODPECKER (SOUTH MEXICAN) (Picoides villosus sanctorum) – This is a darker looking subspecies than northern birds. Seen well in the Pacific highlands.
GOLDEN-OLIVE WOODPECKER (Colaptes rubiginosus) – Both slopes. Fairly common at least by voice.
NORTHERN FLICKER (GUATEMALAN) (Colaptes auratus mexicanoides) – A pretty distinctive subspecies, a "red-shafted" type. Good numbers in the pine-oak habitat on the Pacific side. [E]
LINEATED WOODPECKER (Dryocopus lineatus) – Always fun. Seen a few times on both slopes.
PALE-BILLED WOODPECKER (Campephilus guatemalensis) – Seen well at Tikal NP.
Falconidae (Falcons and Caracaras)
BARRED FOREST-FALCON (Micrastur ruficollis) – We managed to see this bird perched in the forest at Finca Los Andes. Always a treat.
COLLARED FOREST-FALCON (Micrastur semitorquatus) – Nailed it. Amazing looks and experience with a juvenile at Finca Los Tarrales.
CRESTED CARACARA (Caracara cheriway) – A few on the drives in the Pacific lowlands.
LAUGHING FALCON (Herpetotheres cachinnans) [*]
Yellow-naped Parrots gathered in big, noisy groups in trees around Finca Los Tarrales near dusk. Photo by participants David and Judy Smith.
AMERICAN KESTREL (Falco sparverius) – Especially common at Finca Los Tarrales.
BAT FALCON (Falco rufigularis) – One on our first day at Tikal NP.
ORANGE-BREASTED FALCON (Falco deiroleucus) – Back up on Temple IV. Nice to see them sticking around. This is an extremely rare and local bird in Central America.
Psittacidae (New World and African Parrots)
BARRED PARAKEET (Bolborhynchus lineola) [*]
ORANGE-CHINNED PARAKEET (Brotogeris jugularis) – Especially common in the lowlands around Takalik Abaj and Finca Los Tarrales.
BROWN-HOODED PARROT (Pyrilia haematotis) – Good looks in the scope at Tikal NP. Often missed.
WHITE-CROWNED PARROT (Pionus senilis) [*]
RED-LORED PARROT (Amazona autumnalis) – One of the more common psittacids at Tikal NP.
YELLOW-NAPED PARROT (Amazona auropalliata) – Seen very well at Finca Los Tarrales. Several trees full of many individuals towards dusk.
WHITE-FRONTED PARROT (Amazona albifrons) – Also pretty common at Tikal NP.
OLIVE-THROATED PARAKEET (Eupsittula nana) – Not as common as some of the larger parrots, but seen in good numbers at Tikal NP.
ORANGE-FRONTED PARAKEET (Eupsittula canicularis) – Finally caught up with this species at Finca Los Tarrales where we saw them in good numbers.
PACIFIC PARAKEET (Psittacara strenuus) – Big flocks during our morning birding at Finca El Pilar. [E]
The Red-lored Parrot is among the most common of the psittacids at Tikal. Photo by participants David and Judy Smith.
Thamnophilidae (Typical Antbirds)
BARRED ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus doliatus) – Seen in the dry forest at Tikal NP.
PLAIN ANTVIREO (Dysithamnus mentalis) – A pair seen with a mixed-species flock in the forest at Tikal.
Furnariidae (Ovenbirds and Woodcreepers)
TAWNY-THROATED LEAFTOSSER (Sclerurus mexicanus) – A responsive bird, but still difficult to see well in the dark understory.
SCALY-THROATED LEAFTOSSER (Sclerurus guatemalensis) [*]
OLIVACEOUS WOODCREEPER (Sittasomus griseicapillus) – Good numbers in the Tikal forest.
RUDDY WOODCREEPER (Dendrocincla homochroa) – At least four were along the entrance road to Tikal, so must have been an ant swarm nearby. Unfortunately, they didn't stick around long.
TAWNY-WINGED WOODCREEPER (Dendrocincla anabatina) – A wonderful experience with this species and army ants at Cerro Cahui.
NORTHERN BARRED-WOODCREEPER (Dendrocolaptes sanctithomae) – Singles every day at Tikal NP including one in attendance at the army ant swarm at Cerro Cahui.
IVORY-BILLED WOODCREEPER (Xiphorhynchus flavigaster) – Seen on both slopes.
SPOTTED WOODCREEPER (Xiphorhynchus erythropygius) [*]
Northern Barred-Woodcreepers are nearly "professional" ant swarm followers, spending as much as 70 percent of their time attending such swarms. Photo by participants David and Judy Smith.
SPOT-CROWNED WOODCREEPER (Lepidocolaptes affinis) – One seen well at Finca El Pilar.
PLAIN XENOPS (Xenops minutus) – A few around each day while at Tikal NP.
SCALY-THROATED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Anabacerthia variegaticeps) – Our first were in the tall forest at Finca Los Andes, but again at Finca Las Nubes.
RUDDY FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Clibanornis rubiginosus) – Finally caught up to this species at Finca Las Nubes.
Tyrannidae (Tyrant Flycatchers)
YELLOW-BELLIED TYRANNULET (Ornithion semiflavum) – One approached very close while birding the ruins of Tikal NP. This species is always found in the canopy.
NORTHERN BEARDLESS-TYRANNULET (Camptostoma imberbe) – One at Takalik Abaj showed nicely.
GREENISH ELAENIA (Myiopagis viridicata) [*]
YELLOW-BELLIED ELAENIA (Elaenia flavogaster) – At Finca Los Tarrales.
MOUNTAIN ELAENIA (Elaenia frantzii) – One at Finca El Pilar.
OCHRE-BELLIED FLYCATCHER (Mionectes oleagineus) – Several in the forest at Tikal NP. Also found on the Pacific side.
SEPIA-CAPPED FLYCATCHER (Leptopogon amaurocephalus) – Often heard in the forest at Tikal. We managed to pull one out for folks to see well.
PALTRY TYRANNULET (Zimmerius vilissimus) – Good numbers on the Pacific side. We preferred the name "Mistletoe Tyrannulet."
NORTHERN BENTBILL (Oncostoma cinereigulare) – Seen well at Tikal NP, heard again at Finca Los Tarrales.
COMMON TODY-FLYCATCHER (Todirostrum cinereum) – Surprising just the one at Finca Los Tarrales. Where were these guys?!
EYE-RINGED FLATBILL (Rhynchocyclus brevirostris) – Good looks (several times) in the forest at Tikal.
YELLOW-OLIVE FLYCATCHER (Tolmomyias sulphurescens) [*]
STUB-TAILED SPADEBILL (Platyrinchus cancrominus)
ROYAL FLYCATCHER (NORTHERN) (Onychorhynchus coronatus mexicanus) – This small flycatcher was seen a few times at Tikal and Cerro Cahui. Always difficult, however.
RUDDY-TAILED FLYCATCHER (Terenotriccus erythrurus) – Singles each day at Tikal.
SULPHUR-RUMPED FLYCATCHER (Myiobius sulphureipygius) – Also, singles each day at Tikal NP.
BELTED FLYCATCHER (Xenotriccus callizonus) – Well, it was a struggle. A cooperative bird approached initially then melted into the thick vegetation. Some folks saw it better than others. Heard by all. A tough (rare and local) NCA endemic. [E]
TUFTED FLYCATCHER (Mitrephanes phaeocercus) – Just one at Finca El Pilar.
GREATER PEWEE (Contopus pertinax) – Good numbers in the Pacific highlands.
TROPICAL PEWEE (Contopus cinereus) – Seen well at Finca Los Tarrales.
YELLOW-BELLIED FLYCATCHER (Empidonax flaviventris) – A common wintering Empid in the lowlands at Tikal.
LEAST FLYCATCHER (Empidonax minimus) – Common on both slopes.
HAMMOND'S FLYCATCHER (Empidonax hammondii) – Also common as a winter visitor, but only in the Pacific highlands.
Finca Los Andes, our comfortable accommodation for part of the trip. Photo by participant Mary Lou Barritt.
YELLOWISH FLYCATCHER (Empidonax flavescens) – We caught up with this species at Finca Los Andes. Nice spotting, Jesper.
BLACK PHOEBE (Sayornis nigricans) – One was seen on the shores of Lake Atitlan.
VERMILION FLYCATCHER (Pyrocephalus rubinus) – Females were seen in the Peten region (like one at the airport).
BRIGHT-RUMPED ATTILA (Attila spadiceus) – Often heard in the forest, but we managed to see one at Tikal.
YUCATAN FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus yucatanensis) – Somewhat rare in the drier forest at Tikal or Cahui, where we managed to see one or two. The voice is the most distinctive aspect of this Myiarchus.
DUSKY-CAPPED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus tuberculifer) – Very common in many types of forests on both slopes. More often heard than seen, however.
GREAT CRESTED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus crinitus) [*]
BROWN-CRESTED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus tyrannulus) – Seen on both slopes. Their double-noted call is diagnostic.
GREAT KISKADEE (Pitangus sulphuratus) – Common around areas of water on both slopes.
BOAT-BILLED FLYCATCHER (Megarynchus pitangua) – This species prefers taller forest and drier areas, unlike the similar Great Kiskadee. It was seen on both slopes.
SOCIAL FLYCATCHER (Myiozetetes similis) – Super common. Seen most days of the tour.
TROPICAL KINGBIRD (Tyrannus melancholicus) – Ditto above.
COUCH'S KINGBIRD (Tyrannus couchii) – This look-a-like species (to Tropical Kingbird) was identified several times at Tikal by call.
Pipridae (Manakins)
LONG-TAILED MANAKIN (Chiroxiphia linearis) – Pretty nice looks at birds on a lek while birding the upper forest at Los Tarrales.
The wonderfully colorful Keel-billed Toucan was seen well on the Caribbean side of the country -- where its froglike croaks were a regular background sound. Photo by participants David and Judy Smith.
WHITE-COLLARED MANAKIN (Manacus candei) – A couple of females were seen at Tikal NP.
RED-CAPPED MANAKIN (Ceratopipra mentalis) – Also several females were seen at Tikal NP. Where were the male manakins?
Tityridae (Tityras and Allies)
MASKED TITYRA (Tityra semifasciata) – Nice looks at the "chancho" on both slopes.
BROWN-WINGED SCHIFFORNIS (Schiffornis turdina) – "Hey, therrrrre, RICKY!" That's the song, which we heard a few times at Tikal. Always tough to see well, but we managed to do it!
ROSE-THROATED BECARD (Pachyramphus aglaiae) – One male was seen at Takalik Abaj.
Vireonidae (Vireos, Shrike-Babblers, and Erpornis)
WHITE-EYED VIREO (Vireo griseus) – Pretty common at Tikal NP as a winter visitor.
MANGROVE VIREO (Vireo pallens) [*]
YELLOW-THROATED VIREO (Vireo flavifrons) – Not super common, but individuals seen on both slopes.
PLUMBEOUS VIREO (CENTRAL AMERICAN) (Vireo plumbeus montanus) – This was a real treat finding this species at Finca Los Tarrales. These resident subspecies may be split one day.
We saw lots of Gray Silky-Flycatchers perched up around Finca El Pilar. Photo by participants David and Judy Smith.
BLUE-HEADED VIREO (Vireo solitarius) – Fairly common in the Pacific highlands.
HUTTON'S VIREO (Vireo huttoni) – Heard a few times, but eventually seen at Fuentes Georginas.
WARBLING VIREO (Vireo gilvus) – Good numbers on both slopes.
WARBLING VIREO (EASTERN) (Vireo gilvus gilvus) – One "Eastern" Warbling Vireo was identified by its darker appearance and yellow flanks at Tikal NP.
TAWNY-CROWNED GREENLET (Tunchiornis ochraceiceps) – Every day at Tikal NP.
LESSER GREENLET (Pachysylvia decurtata) – Also every day at Tikal, but heard at Los Tarrales on the Pacific side.
CHESTNUT-SIDED SHRIKE-VIREO (Vireolanius melitophrys) – Fantastic looks on our first morning at Finca El Pilar. Such a cool bird!
GREEN SHRIKE-VIREO (Vireolanius pulchellus) – Another great bird to find. Seen pretty well at Finca Los Tarrales in the upper forest. Sounds like a titmouse.
RUFOUS-BROWED PEPPERSHRIKE (Cyclarhis gujanensis) [*]
Corvidae (Crows, Jays, and Magpies)
WHITE-THROATED MAGPIE-JAY (Calocitta formosa) – Always fun to see. Not many, but a few during our drives in the Pacific lowlands.
BROWN JAY (Psilorhinus morio) – Loud and obvious. Lots around our cabins at Tikal.
BUSHY-CRESTED JAY (Cyanocorax melanocyaneus) – This NCA endemic was seen well at Pilar and a few other sites. [E]
UNICOLORED JAY (Aphelocoma unicolor) – Great bird to find. Seen nicely at Fuentes Georginas.
Hirundinidae (Swallows)
BLACK-CAPPED SWALLOW (Atticora pileata) – Another NCA endemic found at Finca El Pilar and again at Fuentes Georginas. [E]
NORTHERN ROUGH-WINGED SWALLOW (Stelgidopteryx serripennis) – More common on the Pacific side.
NORTHERN ROUGH-WINGED SWALLOW (RIDGWAY'S) (Stelgidopteryx serripennis ridgwayi) – Only around the ruins of Tikal, nesting near Temple II.
GRAY-BREASTED MARTIN (Progne chalybea) – Many were roosting under the airport entrance roof in Flores.
MANGROVE SWALLOW (Tachycineta albilinea) – A few seen in the Peten including at the airport. Their white rumps were obvious.
VIOLET-GREEN SWALLOW (Tachycineta thalassina) – Good numbers around Finca Los Andes and at Las Nubes.
BARN SWALLOW (Hirundo rustica) – Not many, but a few on the drive to Finca Los Andes.
Aegithalidae (Long-tailed Tits)
BUSHTIT (BLACK-EARED) (Psaltriparus minimus melanotis) – This subspecies where males have black faces was seen at Finca El Pilar. There was a small group of 3 or 4 birds foraging together.
Troglodytidae (Wrens)
HOUSE WREN (SOUTHERN) (Troglodytes aedon musculus) – Common on the Pacific side.
RUFOUS-BROWED WREN (Troglodytes rufociliatus) – Heard and dreadfully difficult to show folks, but we had stunning looks at one along the road at Fuentes Georginas. [E]
CAROLINA WREN (WHITE-BROWED) (Thryothorus ludovicianus albinucha) – Seen at Cerro Cahui.
BAND-BACKED WREN (Campylorhynchus zonatus) – On the grounds at Finca Los Andes.
Social gangs of Rufous-naped Wrens roamed the grounds of Finca Los Tarrales. Photo by participants David and Judy Smith.
RUFOUS-NAPED WREN (WEST MEXICO) (Campylorhynchus rufinucha nigricaudatus) – One of my favorites. They were around the grounds at Finca Los Tarrales.
SPOT-BREASTED WREN (Pheugopedius maculipectus) – Heard a lot on both slopes, but seen well at Tikal.
RUFOUS-AND-WHITE WREN (Thryophilus rufalbus) – Frustrating (aren't all the wrens?!), but eventually seen at Finca Los Andes and again at Las Nubes.
PLAIN WREN (Cantorchilus modestus) – Lots heard. LOTS. I think we eventually got folks a look. Right?
WHITE-BELLIED WREN (Uropsila leucogastra) – This small arboreal wren was seen at Cerro Cahui.
WHITE-BREASTED WOOD-WREN (Henicorhina leucosticta) [*]
GRAY-BREASTED WOOD-WREN (Henicorhina leucophrys) – Heard and seen in the Pacific highlands.
Polioptilidae (Gnatcatchers)
LONG-BILLED GNATWREN (Ramphocaenus melanurus) – Nice looks at Cerro Cahui.
BLUE-GRAY GNATCATCHER (Polioptila caerulea) – Wintering at Tikal NP. Not a bad place to be.
TROPICAL GNATCATCHER (Polioptila plumbea) [*]
Turdidae (Thrushes and Allies)
EASTERN BLUEBIRD (Sialia sialis) – Around our morning picnic spot at Finca El Pilar.
BROWN-BACKED SOLITAIRE (Myadestes occidentalis) – Their cascading windchime-like call is bigger than their appearance.
ORANGE-BILLED NIGHTINGALE-THRUSH (Catharus aurantiirostris) – Finally caught up to seeing this bird at Laguna Lodge.
RUDDY-CAPPED NIGHTINGALE-THRUSH (Catharus frantzii) – Seen at Fuentes Georginas.
Collared Aracaris were common on both slopes. Here, one dives into a wall of fruit. Photo by participants David and Judy Smith.
SPOTTED NIGHTINGALE-THRUSH (Catharus dryas) – We really worked on this one. Struggled a bit at Finca Los Andes, but one cooperated very nicely at Finca Las Nubes.
SWAINSON'S THRUSH (Catharus ustulatus) – Good number of wintering birds in the highlands.
WOOD THRUSH (Hylocichla mustelina) – Common as a wintering bird in the forests of Tikal NP.
MOUNTAIN THRUSH (Turdus plebejus) – One was feeding at a fruiting tree at Finca El Pilar. Always a good bird to find.
CLAY-COLORED THRUSH (Turdus grayi) – Common. Seen every day of the tour.
WHITE-THROATED THRUSH (Turdus assimilis) – Good looks at birds feeding in Cecropia trees at Finca Los Andes.
RUFOUS-COLLARED ROBIN (Turdus rufitorques) – Our best looks were at Finca El Pilar perched atop the Mexican Cypress trees. [E]
Mimidae (Mockingbirds and Thrashers)
BLUE-AND-WHITE MOCKINGBIRD (Melanotis hypoleucus) [E*]
GRAY CATBIRD (Dumetella carolinensis) – Seen at Tikal NP where fairy common.
Ptiliogonatidae (Silky-flycatchers)
GRAY SILKY-FLYCATCHER (Ptiliogonys cinereus) – Lots were around perched on the tree tops at Finca El Pilar.
Parulidae (New World Warblers)
OVENBIRD (Seiurus aurocapilla) – One at Finca El Pilar.
WORM-EATING WARBLER (Helmitheros vermivorum) – Singles on a couple of different days.
NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH (Parkesia noveboracensis) – Common, at least by chip note, in the forests of Tikal NP.
GOLDEN-WINGED WARBLER (Vermivora chrysoptera) – Seen a few times at Tikal NP.
Pink-headed Warbler took top honors in the "favorite bird of the trip" competition -- by a landslide. Photo by participant Mary Lou Barritt.
BLACK-AND-WHITE WARBLER (Mniotilta varia) – Most days of the tour
CRESCENT-CHESTED WARBLER (Oreothlypis superciliosa) – Seen in the highlands at El Pilar and again at Fuentes Georginas.
TENNESSEE WARBLER (Oreothlypis peregrina) – Most days of the tour, but much more common in the Pacific highlands.
NASHVILLE WARBLER (RIDGWAYI) (Oreothlypis ruficapilla ridgwayi) – Several at Cayala in Guatemala City.
MACGILLIVRAY'S WARBLER (Geothlypis tolmiei) – Singles here and there at different spots in the highlands.
KENTUCKY WARBLER (Geothlypis formosa) – Seen a few times at Tikal NP.
COMMON YELLOWTHROAT (Geothlypis trichas) [*]
HOODED WARBLER (Setophaga citrina) – Quite common at Tikal NP.
AMERICAN REDSTART (Setophaga ruticilla) – Seen on both slopes where fairly common.
MAGNOLIA WARBLER (Setophaga magnolia) – Lots around on the Caribbean side, but it was a surprise to see so many on the Pacific side where usually less common.
YELLOW WARBLER (Setophaga petechia) – Both slopes.
CHESTNUT-SIDED WARBLER (Setophaga pensylvanica) – Fairly common in the Peten.
YELLOW-RUMPED WARBLER (MYRTLE) (Setophaga coronata coronata) – Never around in large numbers, this was a nice find at Tikal NP.
TOWNSEND'S WARBLER (Setophaga townsendi) – One of the more common wintering warblers in the highlands. Especially in the pine-oak forest.
Greeting the dawn at Finca Las Nubes with coffee in hand, waiting for the bird show to begin in earnest. Photo by participant Mary Lou Barritt.
HERMIT WARBLER (Setophaga occidentalis) – One at Finca El Pilar was our only one.
BLACK-THROATED GREEN WARBLER (Setophaga virens) – Several at Cayala and other spots.
FAN-TAILED WARBLER (Basileuterus lachrymosus) – One was seen briefly at Finca Las Nubes. Heard by all.
RUFOUS-CAPPED WARBLER (CHESTNUT-CAPPED) (Basileuterus rufifrons delattrii) – These were the ones seen at Finca Los Andes and again at Los Tarrales.
GOLDEN-BROWED WARBLER (Basileuterus belli) – A striking bird seen well at Fuentes Georginas.
GOLDEN-CROWNED WARBLER (Basileuterus culicivorus) – Seen on the Pacific side at different sites.
WILSON'S WARBLER (Cardellina pusilla) – Rare on the Caribbean slope where we had one at Tikal NP, but super common in the Pacific highlands.
PINK-HEADED WARBLER (Cardellina versicolor) – A nice experience with this "frosty-headed" warbler. A definite highlight of the trip for many. [E]
Brown-hooded Parrot is a species we often miss, so to get one in the scope was nice. Photo by participants David and Judy Smith.
SLATE-THROATED REDSTART (Myioborus miniatus) – Seen a number of times in the highlands. Our first were at Cayala.
Thraupidae (Tanagers and Allies)
GRAY-HEADED TANAGER (Eucometis penicillata) – Several at the army ant swarm at Cahui. A nice looking bird.
BLACK-THROATED SHRIKE-TANAGER (Lanio aurantius) – A female and a male were both seen at Tikal NP.
BLUE-GRAY TANAGER (Thraupis episcopus) – Just a few, but on both slopes.
YELLOW-WINGED TANAGER (Thraupis abbas) – This was much more common than the previous species. Also seen on both slopes.
AZURE-RUMPED TANAGER (Tangara cabanisi) – Nice job, David, spotting a couple of birds feeding silently in a fruiting tree. We eventually were able to put one in the scope. [E]
RED-LEGGED HONEYCREEPER (Cyanerpes cyaneus) – Really responsive to pygmy-owl tape.
CINNAMON-BELLIED FLOWERPIERCER (Diglossa baritula) – One showed briefly our day at Fuentes Georginas.
WHITE-COLLARED SEEDEATER (WHITE-COLLARED) (Sporophila torqueola morelleti) – This was the subspecies seen on the Caribbean slope with tawny-cinnamon underparts.
WHITE-COLLARED SEEDEATER (WHITE-COLLARED) (Sporophila torqueola mutanda) – The subspecies seen on the Pacific side which are all white below and have darker throats.
BLACK-HEADED SALTATOR (Saltator atriceps) – Common on both slopes.
GRAYISH SALTATOR (Saltator coerulescens) – Found on both slopes, but not as common as the previous species.
Emberizidae (Buntings and New World Sparrows)
COMMON CHLOROSPINGUS (MIDDLE AMERICA) (Chlorospingus flavopectus postocularis) – Good numbers at Finca Los Andes and Las Nubes.
GREEN-BACKED SPARROW (Arremonops chloronotus) – Seen well at Tikal NP a few times.
CHESTNUT-CAPPED BRUSHFINCH (Arremon brunneinucha) – A bird at Finca Las Nubes was our only one.
RUFOUS-COLLARED SPARROW (Zonotrichia capensis) – Seen around Guatemala City and Antigua.
WHITE-EARED GROUND-SPARROW (Melozone leucotis) – Lovely looks at Finca Los Andes on the edge of the tall forest.
PREVOST'S GROUND-SPARROW (PREVOST'S) (Melozone biarcuata biarcuata) – This one we saw well at Laguna Lodge. Such a cool bird. [E]
WHITE-NAPED BRUSHFINCH (YELLOW-THROATED) (Atlapetes albinucha gutturalis) – Our first was at Finca El Pilar, but again at Fuentes Georginas.
Cardinalidae (Cardinals and Allies)
ROSE-THROATED TANAGER (Piranga roseogularis) – This Yucatan endemic was a surprise. It was the first time I had seen it on this tour. Awesome!
Participants David and Judy Smith got this nice portrait of a male Red-throated Ant-Tanager at Tikal.
SUMMER TANAGER (Piranga rubra) – Common on both slopes.
WESTERN TANAGER (Piranga ludoviciana) – Just in the highlands on the Pacific side.
WHITE-WINGED TANAGER (Piranga leucoptera) – Seen on several days. The males are quite striking.
RED-CROWNED ANT-TANAGER (Habia rubica) – At Tikal NP.
RED-THROATED ANT-TANAGER (Habia fuscicauda) – Also at Tikal NP where it overlaps with the previous species.
ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK (Pheucticus ludovicianus) – Good numbers on the Pacific slope where a common wintering species.
GRAY-THROATED CHAT (Granatellus sallaei) – Sometimes they can be tough to locate, but not this year. Seen most days at Tikal NP. [E]
BLUE BUNTING (Cyanocompsa parellina) – Seen well at Tikal.
INDIGO BUNTING (Passerina cyanea) – Wintering birds were seen on both slopes.
PAINTED BUNTING (Passerina ciris) – A male was spotted at Finca Los Tarrales.
Icteridae (Troupials and Allies)
MELODIOUS BLACKBIRD (Dives dives) – Seen on both slopes. Easily detected by voice.
GREAT-TAILED GRACKLE (Quiscalus mexicanus) – Less common in the Peten (only in Flores), but common on the Pacific slope.
BRONZED COWBIRD (Molothrus aeneus) – One at Cabana Suiza.
GIANT COWBIRD (Molothrus oryzivorus) – Lots parasitizing the oropendola nests at Tikal.
Montezuma Oropendolas are handsome -- and noisy! The colony in the main plaza at Tikal proved entertaining. Photo by participants David and Judy Smith.
BLACK-VENTED ORIOLE (Icterus wagleri) – A few on our mornings at Finca El Pilar.
BAR-WINGED ORIOLE (Icterus maculialatus) – Just one immature that briefly sat for us at Finca El Pilar. Unfortunately, didn't stay long. [E]
ORCHARD ORIOLE (Icterus spurius) – A few around on the Pacific side.
SPOT-BREASTED ORIOLE (Icterus pectoralis) – The white triangle in the wing was a good mark for the young birds that didn't show any spotting.
BALTIMORE ORIOLE (Icterus galbula) – Fairly common on both slopes. The males are always nice to look at.
YELLOW-BILLED CACIQUE (Amblycercus holosericeus) [*]
MONTEZUMA OROPENDOLA (Psarocolius montezuma) – It's pretty cool to see their iconic nests in the main plaza at Tikal.
Fringillidae (Finches, Euphonias, and Allies)
SCRUB EUPHONIA (Euphonia affinis) – Finally caught up to this species at Finca Los Tarrales.
YELLOW-THROATED EUPHONIA (Euphonia hirundinacea) – Fairly common on both slopes.
ELEGANT EUPHONIA (Euphonia elegantissima) – Several males were seen on the Pacific side.
OLIVE-BACKED EUPHONIA (Euphonia gouldi) – Just one at Tikal NP. Seemed odd not to find more around.
BLUE-CROWNED CHLOROPHONIA (Chlorophonia occipitalis) – A pair was seen fairly low in the forest at Los Andes. They quickly disappeared, however.
BLACK-HEADED SISKIN (Spinus notatus) – Nice looks in the morning light at Finca El Pilar.
HOODED GROSBEAK (Coccothraustes abeillei) – I was blown away to see big flocks of 10 or 15 birds at El Pilar. Usually they are scarce and only singles.
Passeridae (Old World Sparrows)
HOUSE SPARROW (Passer domesticus) – Not real common, but seen on a few days.
Lake Atitlan, previously home to the endemic Atitlan Grebe -- now extinct, unfortunately. Photo by participant Mary Lou Barritt.
MAMMALS
YUCATAN HOWLER MONKEY (Alouatta pigra) – Lots heard, but a few were also seen at Tikal NP.
CENTRAL AMERICAN SPIDER MONKEY (Ateles geoffroyi) – Fairly common in the forest at Tikal.
MEXICAN GRAY SQUIRREL (Sciurus aureogaster) – One was seen at Cayala on our first morning in Guatemala City.
YUCATAN SQUIRREL (Sciurus yucatanensis) – This is the squirrel seen in Tikal NP.
DEPPE'S SQUIRREL (Sciurus deppei) – This highland squirrel was seen starting at Finca Los Andes.
CENTRAL AMERICAN AGOUTI (Dasyprocta punctata) – Several at Tikal NP and again around Finca Los Tarrales.
WHITE-NOSED COATI (Nasua narica) – A coati was along the entrance road to Tikal NP.
WHITE-TAILED DEER (Odocoileus virginianus) – A pair were along the runway in Flores.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Totals for the tour: 328 bird taxa and 8 mammal taxa