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Rheidae (Rheas)

GREATER RHEA (Rhea americana)

A common species in the open fields of the Pantanal and Emas National Park

Tinamidae (Tinamous)

BROWN TINAMOU (Crypturellus obsoletus) [*]

UNDULATED TINAMOU (Crypturellus undulatus)

After hearing them quite a bit we managed to get a great look at one in the Pantanal

SMALL-BILLED TINAMOU (Crypturellus parvirostris)

George spotted this one for us at Emas National Park

RED-WINGED TINAMOU (Rhynchotus rufescens)

Dawn spotted this one for us a couple of times at Emas National Park

LESSER NOTHURA (Nothura minor) [E]

SPOTTED NOTHURA (Nothura maculosa)

Seen both at Emas and and Canastra

DWARF TINAMOU (Taoniscus nanus)

This was the absolute highlight of the tour for me. This bird is a ghost and I had only seen one once before. We had a nice look at one at Canastra National Park

Anhimidae (Screamers)

SOUTHERN SCREAMER (Chauna torquata)

Great looks at these massive birds in the Pantanal

Anatidae (Ducks, Geese, and Waterfowl)

WHITE-FACED WHISTLING-DUCK (Dendrocygna viduata)

BLACK-BELLIED WHISTLING-DUCK (Dendrocygna autumnalis)

MUSCOVY DUCK (Cairina moschata)

This species has been introduced to many places but is native to Brazil

BRAZILIAN TEAL (Amazonetta brasiliensis)

Especially nice to see them flying with their blue wing speculum.

BRAZILIAN MERGANSER (Mergus octosetaceus) [E]

What a treat to see this critically endangered species on our visit to Canastra. We managed to get pretty good scope views of them on the Sao Francisco River.

Cracidae (Guans, Chachalacas, and Curassows)

CHACO CHACHALACA (Ortalis canicollis)

This noisy species is the most characteristic sound of the Pantanal and they were particularly loud at Aguape lodge.

DUSKY-LEGGED GUAN (Penelope obscura)

Seen towards the end of the tour as we started to see some influence of the Atlantic Forest. They were particularly common around the gardens of Caraça.

WHITE-THROATED PIPING-GUAN (Pipile grayi)

Since our tour this species has been split. It was formerly known as Blue-throated Piping-Guan

BARE-FACED CURASSOW (Crax fasciolata)

A regular visitor of the feeders at Aguape lodge giving us ample opportunity to study the intricacies of the plumage of these fabulous birds

Columbidae (Pigeons and Doves)

ROCK PIGEON (Columba livia)

PALE-VENTED PIGEON (Patagioenas cayennensis)

PICAZURO PIGEON (Patagioenas picazuro)

Seen every day on our tour.

PLUMBEOUS PIGEON (Patagioenas plumbea)

We had a good look at this forest species through the scope at Caraça.

PLAIN-BREASTED GROUND DOVE (Columbina minuta)

A scarce species that is often overlooked as it mingles with other Ground Doves but we were able to locate one at San Fancisco Lodge.

RUDDY GROUND DOVE (Columbina talpacoti)

The most common and abundant of the Ground Doves in the Pantanal

SCALED DOVE (Columbina squammata)

PICUI GROUND DOVE (Columbina picui)

LONG-TAILED GROUND DOVE (Uropelia campestris)

This is one of the prettiest Ground Doves and it is also a pretty scarce one, but we found one of them at Aguape Lodge and got some good looks at it.

WHITE-TIPPED DOVE (Leptotila verreauxi)

EARED DOVE (Zenaida auriculata)

Seen almost every day

Cuculidae (Cuckoos)

GUIRA CUCKOO (Guira guira)

This species is common but it is fascinating to watch them as they look great and have very interesting behaviour.

GREATER ANI (Crotophaga major)

Yvon found this species for us. They migrate out of the Pantanal in the dry season so these were the last remaining birds.

SMOOTH-BILLED ANI (Crotophaga ani)

STRIPED CUCKOO (Tapera naevia)

A very nice look at this cryptic species that is heard often but seldom seen.

SQUIRREL CUCKOO (Piaya cayana)

When you see this species hopping around the branches of trees with its long tail, you quickly realize where it gets its name.

Caprimulgidae (Nightjars and Allies)

LEAST NIGHTHAWK (Chordeiles pusillus)

We saw a few of these birds taking the skies at dusk at Cipo.

COMMON PAURAQUE (Nyctidromus albicollis)

Particularly common in the Pantanal

WHITE-WINGED NIGHTJAR (Eleothreptus candicans)

This is one of the rarest nightjars in the world as it is only known from a few spots. We had great looks at an adult male at Emas National Park

LITTLE NIGHTJAR (Setopagis parvula)

SPOT-TAILED NIGHTJAR (Hydropsalis maculicaudus)

SCISSOR-TAILED NIGHTJAR (Hydropsalis torquata)

RUFOUS NIGHTJAR (Antrostomus rufus) [*]

Nyctibiidae (Potoos)

GREAT POTOO (Nyctibius grandis)

Seen at Aguape lodge.

COMMON POTOO (Nyctibius griseus)

Seeing this bird nesting on a fence post was one of the highlights of our visit to Aguape lodge.

Apodidae (Swifts)

SOOTY SWIFT (Cypseloides fumigatus)

GREAT DUSKY SWIFT (Cypseloides senex)

George spotted this species for us.

WHITE-COLLARED SWIFT (Streptoprocne zonaris)

Common on second half of the tour.

SICK'S SWIFT (Chaetura meridionalis)

FORK-TAILED PALM SWIFT (Tachornis squamata)

Seen in the Mauritia Palm groves at Emas. This species is closely tied to the occurrence of these palm trees where they nest.

Trochilidae (Hummingbirds)

BLACK JACOBIN (Florisuga fusca)

BUFF-BELLIED HERMIT (Phaethornis subochraceus)

We saw one of these range restricted hermits at San Francisco Lodge responding to a Pygmy Owl tape.

PLANALTO HERMIT (Phaethornis pretrei)

HYACINTH VISORBEARER (Augastes scutatus)

We had to walk a ways up the mountain at Cipo to find this endemic hummer but it was so worth it as we had wonderful look at it.

WHITE-VENTED VIOLETEAR (Colibri serrirostris)

This is a species of the open fields of the Cerrado. We saw one well at Emas National Park

WHITE-TAILED GOLDENTHROAT (Polytmus guainumbi)

This species is widespread but it favors flooded habitat and so it is quite understandable that we found one in the Pantanal.

BLACK-THROATED MANGO (Anthracothorax nigricollis)

BRAZILIAN RUBY (Heliodoxa rubricauda)

A species of the Atlantic Forest and we found it at Caraça in the transition from the cerrado to the Atlantic Forest

STRIPE-BREASTED STARTHROAT (Heliomaster squamosus) [E]

Good looks at this species that is endemic to Brazil.

AMETHYST WOODSTAR (Calliphlox amethystina)

We had multiple looks at this minute species towards the end of the tour. This species has one of the fasted wing beats of any hummingbird, producing a very characteristic sound as it flies.

GLITTERING-BELLIED EMERALD (Chlorostilbon lucidus)

VIOLET-CAPPED WOODNYMPH (Thalurania glaucopis)

FORK-TAILED WOODNYMPH (Thalurania furcata)

SWALLOW-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD (Eupetomena macroura)

VERSICOLORED EMERALD (Chrysuronia versicolor)

WHITE-THROATED HUMMINGBIRD (Leucochloris albicollis)

During our brief visit to Ouro Preto we found this species foraging on a Jacaranda Tree.

SAPPHIRE-SPANGLED EMERALD (Chionomesa lactea)

GILDED HUMMINGBIRD (Hylocharis chrysura)

Rallidae (Rails, Gallinules, and Coots)

BLACKISH RAIL (Pardirallus nigricans)

Seen near the ponds at Caraça.

ASH-THROATED CRAKE (Mustelirallus albicollis)

GRAY-COWLED WOOD-RAIL (Aramides cajaneus)

Formerly knonw as Gray-necked Wood-Rail

SLATY-BREASTED WOOD-RAIL (Aramides saracura)

Yet another species of the Atlantic Forest that we found at Caraça.

COMMON GALLINULE (Gallinula galeata)

PURPLE GALLINULE (Porphyrio martinica)

Dawn spotted this handsome bird for us on the first day of our tour.

RUFOUS-SIDED CRAKE (Laterallus melanophaius)

Always a tricky species to see, but we managed to bring one out for viewing at San Francisco Lodge in the Pantanal

GRAY-BREASTED CRAKE (Laterallus exilis) [*]

Aramidae (Limpkin)

LIMPKIN (Aramus guarauna)

A common species in the Pantanal

Recurvirostridae (Stilts and Avocets)

BLACK-NECKED STILT (WHITE-BACKED) (Himantopus mexicanus melanurus)

Charadriidae (Plovers and Lapwings)

AMERICAN GOLDEN-PLOVER (Pluvialis dominica)

Good looks at this migrant at San Francisco lodge.

PIED PLOVER (Hoploxypterus cayanus)

A pair of birds seen very well at a pond near our lodge at Aguape

SOUTHERN LAPWING (Vanellus chilensis)

Jacanidae (Jacanas)

WATTLED JACANA (Jacana jacana)

Common in the Pantanal

Scolopacidae (Sandpipers and Allies)

UPLAND SANDPIPER (Bartramia longicauda)

Dawn spotted this one for us on an open field at Aguape Lodge.

PANTANAL SNIPE (Gallinago paraguaiae)

Formerly known as South American Snipe, but the species was recently split into multiple species.

WILSON'S PHALAROPE (Phalaropus tricolor)

Tim spotted and Identified these birds on a rice field at San Francisco Lodge.

SOLITARY SANDPIPER (Tringa solitaria)

LESSER YELLOWLEGS (Tringa flavipes)

STILT SANDPIPER (Calidris himantopus)

WHITE-RUMPED SANDPIPER (Calidris fuscicollis)

This was the smallest of the multiple sandpipers we saw at San Francisco Lodge

PECTORAL SANDPIPER (Calidris melanotos)

Ciconiidae (Storks)

MAGUARI STORK (Ciconia maguari)

This is often the most scarce of the Storks we see on the tour but this year they were present in good numbers

JABIRU (Jabiru mycteria)

With an average hight of 5 feet the Jabiru is the tallest flying bird of South America. We had multiple views of them in the Pantanal

WOOD STORK (Mycteria americana)

Anhingidae (Anhingas)

ANHINGA (Anhinga anhinga)

Phalacrocoracidae (Cormorants and Shags)

NEOTROPIC CORMORANT (Nannopterum brasilianum)

Ardeidae (Herons, Egrets, and Bitterns)

RUFESCENT TIGER-HERON (Tigrisoma lineatum)

BOAT-BILLED HERON (Cochlearius cochlearius)

This is a nocturnal species that we saw both at day roosts and at night in the Pantanal

BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT HERON (Nycticorax nycticorax)

CAPPED HERON (Pilherodius pileatus)

This is mainly an Amazonian species, but occurs in small numbers in the Pantanal. We saw one at San Francisco Lodge

WHISTLING HERON (Syrigma sibilatrix)

Unlike most herons, this species favors dry areas. We came across this colorful species many times on our tour, but the birds displaying at the entrance of Emas National Park were particularly memorable.

LITTLE BLUE HERON (Egretta caerulea)

SNOWY EGRET (Egretta thula)

STRIATED HERON (Butorides striata)

A close relative of the Green Heron from North America

GREAT EGRET (Ardea alba)

COCOI HERON (Ardea cocoi)

Threskiornithidae (Ibises and Spoonbills)

GREEN IBIS (Mesembrinibis cayennensis)

John spotted this species that prefers forested habitat.

BARE-FACED IBIS (Phimosus infuscatus)

PLUMBEOUS IBIS (Theristicus caerulescens)

This species is restricted to the western portion of the country in Brazil and we saw them in the Pantanal where they are somewhat common.

BUFF-NECKED IBIS (Theristicus caudatus)

A common and widespread species in open areas

ROSEATE SPOONBILL (Platalea ajaja)

Cathartidae (New World Vultures)

BLACK VULTURE (Coragyps atratus)

TURKEY VULTURE (Cathartes aura)

LESSER YELLOW-HEADED VULTURE (Cathartes burrovianus)

Accipitridae (Hawks, Eagles, and Kites)

WHITE-TAILED KITE (Elanus leucurus)

This is a widespread species occuring from the US all the way down to southern Argentina but they are quite scarce. We saw one at Emas National Park

SWALLOW-TAILED KITE (Elanoides forficatus)

BLACK-COLLARED HAWK (Busarellus nigricollis)

Wonderful looks at this elegant hawk during our boat trip at San Francisco Lodge

SNAIL KITE (Rostrhamus sociabilis)

PLUMBEOUS KITE (Ictinia plumbea)

LONG-WINGED HARRIER (Circus buffoni)

We saw this elegant species flying low over a flooded field at Emas National Park

SHARP-SHINNED HAWK (RUFOUS-THIGHED) (Accipiter striatus erythronemius)

Seen flying by at Aguape Lodge

CRANE HAWK (Geranospiza caerulescens)

Our local guide Eliane found this species for us at San Francisco Lodge

SAVANNA HAWK (Buteogallus meridionalis)

One of the most common raptors along our tour route

GREAT BLACK HAWK (Buteogallus urubitinga)

ROADSIDE HAWK (Rupornis magnirostris)

HARRIS'S HAWK (BAY-WINGED) (Parabuteo unicinctus unicinctus)

This is a very scarce species in Brazil but there is a small population at San Francisco Lodge in the Pantanal.

WHITE-TAILED HAWK (Geranoaetus albicaudatus)

BLACK-CHESTED BUZZARD-EAGLE (Geranoaetus melanoleucus)

We found this species on the very first day of our tour as we made our way into the property for San Francisco Lodge

Tytonidae (Barn-Owls)

BARN OWL (Tyto alba)

Wonderful views right around our rooms at San Francisco Lodge.

Strigidae (Owls)

TROPICAL SCREECH-OWL (Megascops choliba)

We saw this species in the Pantanal and at Emas but the birds roosting at a lady's house at Emas were particularly nice.

TAWNY-BROWED OWL (Pulsatrix koeniswaldiana)

A great look at this species at Caraça.

GREAT HORNED OWL (Bubo virginianus) [*]

FERRUGINOUS PYGMY-OWL (Glaucidium brasilianum)

BURROWING OWL (Athene cunicularia)

A common species along this tour route.

BLACK-BANDED OWL (Strix huhula) [*]

RUSTY-BARRED OWL (Strix hylophila)

Yet another great species of owl that we saw well at Caraça.

STRIPED OWL (Asio clamator)

We had wonderful looks at this handsome species during a night drive at San Francisco Lodge.

Trogonidae (Trogons)

BLUE-CROWNED TROGON (Trogon curucui)

SURUCUA TROGON (Trogon surrucura)

Momotidae (Motmots)

AMAZONIAN MOTMOT (Momotus momota)

RUFOUS-CAPPED MOTMOT (Baryphthengus ruficapillus)

Maureen spotted this species behind our lodge at Canastra.

Alcedinidae (Kingfishers)

RINGED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle torquata)

The largest of the kingfishers in South America and one that we saw repeatedly in the Pantanal.

AMAZON KINGFISHER (Chloroceryle amazona)

This is the only species of kingfisher that we saw both in the Pantanal and in other areas of the tour.

AMERICAN PYGMY KINGFISHER (Chloroceryle aenea)

Dawn spotted this minute species in the Pantanal for us

GREEN KINGFISHER (Chloroceryle americana)

GREEN-AND-RUFOUS KINGFISHER (Chloroceryle inda)

A shy forest species that we saw well during a boat trip at San Francisco Lodge in the Pantanal

Bucconidae (Puffbirds)

WHITE-EARED PUFFBIRD (Nystalus chacuru)

Good looks at Emas and Canastra.

CRESCENT-CHESTED PUFFBIRD (Malacoptila striata)

This is actually a species that we don't see very often but we had multiple looks this year both at Canastra and Caraça towards the end of the trip.

Galbulidae (Jacamars)

RUFOUS-TAILED JACAMAR (Galbula ruficauda)

Great views of these colorful little jacamars in the Pantanal

Ramphastidae (Toucans)

CHESTNUT-EARED ARACARI (Pteroglossus castanotis)

Multiple sightings in the Pantanal.

TOCO TOUCAN (Ramphastos toco)

Seen almost every day of the tour but they were particularly friendly at the feeders of Aguape Lodge in the Pantanal

CHANNEL-BILLED TOUCAN (YELLOW-RIDGED) (Ramphastos vitellinus culminatus) [*]

RED-BREASTED TOUCAN (Ramphastos dicolorus)

An Atlantic forest species that we saw at Canastra

Picidae (Woodpeckers)

WHITE-BARRED PICULET (WHITE-BARRED) (Picumnus cirratus cirratus)

WHITE-WEDGED PICULET (Picumnus albosquamatus albosquamatus)

WHITE WOODPECKER (Melanerpes candidus)

We had great looks at a family group displaying on a palm tree near Aguape Lodge

WHITE-FRONTED WOODPECKER (Melanerpes cactorum)

A very localized species that we saw well at Aguape Lodge

CHECKERED WOODPECKER (Dryobates mixtus)

This is a very scarce species but we managed to find one at Canastra

LITTLE WOODPECKER (Dryobates passerinus)

CRIMSON-CRESTED WOODPECKER (Campephilus melanoleucos)

The largest of the woodpeckers we saw on our tour. We found it at Aguape Lodge.

LINEATED WOODPECKER (Dryocopus lineatus)

PALE-CRESTED WOODPECKER (Celeus lugubris)

All the Celeus woodpeckers are stunning and this one is no exception. We found one at San Francisco Lodge in the Pantanal

GOLDEN-GREEN WOODPECKER (Piculus chrysochloros)

After a frustrating first look on the first day of the tour, we found one bird that posed really well for our group.

GREEN-BARRED WOODPECKER (Colaptes melanochloros)

Seen right around our rooms at Aguape Lodge

CAMPO FLICKER (Colaptes campestris)

A common sight at Emas and Canastra.

Cariamidae (Seriemas)

RED-LEGGED SERIEMA (Cariama cristata)

We had multiple looks at this fascinating species on our tour

Falconidae (Falcons and Caracaras)

LAUGHING FALCON (Herpetotheres cachinnans) [*]

COLLARED FOREST-FALCON (Micrastur semitorquatus)

We managed to have one fly across the valley below our lodging at Caraça on the last day of our tour.

CRESTED CARACARA (SOUTHERN) (Caracara plancus plancus)

Seen every day on our tour.

YELLOW-HEADED CARACARA (Daptrius chimachima)

AMERICAN KESTREL (Falco sparverius)

APLOMADO FALCON (Falco femoralis)

Good looks in the open fields of Emas where they hunt for tinamous and crakes in the grasslands.

Psittacidae (New World and African Parrots)

MONK PARAKEET (Myiopsitta monachus)

It is nice to see this species that has been introduced to so many places in its natural habitat.

YELLOW-CHEVRONED PARAKEET (Brotogeris chiriri)

Common in the Pantanal

SCALY-HEADED PARROT (Pionus maximiliani)

Two subspecies seen on our tour. First we saw the Siy subspecies in the Pantanal with a prominent white eye ring, and later we saw the melanoblepharus subspecies in Minas Gerais state.

YELLOW-FACED PARROT (Alipiopsitta xanthops)

Seen a few times at Emas. This species has seen a drastic population decline due to habitat loss.

TURQUOISE-FRONTED PARROT (Amazona aestiva)

Common in the Pantanal and Emas.

ORANGE-WINGED PARROT (Amazona amazonica) [*]

COBALT-RUMPED PARROTLET (Forpus xanthopterygius)

Formerly known as Blue-winged Parrotlet

BLAZE-WINGED PARAKEET (Pyrrhura devillei)

This species is restricted to a very small area in Brazil and Bolivia. We found them at Aguape Lodge and had good looks at them.

MAROON-BELLIED PARAKEET (Pyrrhura frontalis)

An Atlantic Forest endemic that we saw well at Canastra

HYACINTH MACAW (Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus)

Undoubetdly one of the main stars of the Pantanal. We had wonderful looks at them at San Francisco Lodge.

PEACH-FRONTED PARAKEET (Eupsittula aurea)

A common sight at Emas National park.

NANDAY PARAKEET (Aratinga nenday)

One of the most common parakeets in the Pantanal but completely absent from all other areas we visited

GOLDEN-CAPPED PARAKEET (Aratinga auricapillus)

Great looks at this Brazilian endemic at Canastra.

YELLOW-COLLARED MACAW (Primolius auricollis)

We had amazing views of this species flying around us at San Francisco Lodge

BLUE-AND-YELLOW MACAW (Ara ararauna)

A very common species at Emas and we saw large groups of them feeding on agricultural areas

RED-AND-GREEN MACAW (Ara chloropterus)

RED-SHOULDERED MACAW (Diopsittaca nobilis)

WHITE-EYED PARAKEET (Psittacara leucophthalmus)

Common in Minas Gerais state

Thamnophilidae (Typical Antbirds)

LARGE-TAILED ANTSHRIKE (Mackenziaena leachii)

Excellent looks at this massive Antshrike at Caraça

TUFTED ANTSHRIKE (Mackenziaena severa)

Seen briefly at Caraça

GREAT ANTSHRIKE (Taraba major)

One of many great spots by Dawn during the tour

SILVERY-CHEEKED ANTSHRIKE (Sakesphoroides cristatus)

This handsome Antshrike is endemic to Brazil and its main range is in the Caatinga of Northeastern Brazil. We found one at the southern limit of its range at Cipo

BARRED ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus doliatus)

We had multiple looks at this widely distributed species

RUFOUS-WINGED ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus torquatus)

We had great looks at this species at Canastra National Park

PLANALTO SLATY-ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus pelzelni)

VARIABLE ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus caerulescens)

This species is more typical of forested habitats and we saw it well at Caraça

PLAIN ANTVIREO (Dysithamnus mentalis)

BLACK-CAPPED ANTWREN (Herpsilochmus atricapillus)

A canopy antwren that we saw at Canastra and heard a few times at Caraça

LARGE-BILLED ANTWREN (Herpsilochmus longirostris)

This species replaces the Black-capped Antwren in the Pantanal and in much of the Cerrado

SERRA ANTWREN (Formicivora serrana)

Excellent looks at this Brazilian Endemic at Caraça.

RUSTY-BACKED ANTWREN (Formicivora rufa)

OCHRE-RUMPED ANTBIRD (Drymophila ochropyga)

DUSKY-TAILED ANTBIRD (Drymophila malura)

An excellent look at this species at Caraça. We even saw it displaying its interscapular patch.

MATO GROSSO ANTBIRD (Cercomacra melanaria)

A very range restricted species that we saw well in the Pantanal

WHITE-SHOULDERED FIRE-EYE (Pyriglena leucoptera)

An Atlantic forest endemic that we saw at Canastra and later heard a couple of times at Caraça

Melanopareiidae (Crescentchests)

COLLARED CRESCENTCHEST (Melanopareia torquata)

This species was formerly treated as a Tapaculo, but a few years back a new bird family was created for them. This is one of only five species of Crescentchests that exist and we saw one well at Emas National Park

Conopophagidae (Gnateaters)

RUFOUS GNATEATER (Conopophaga lineata)

Rhinocryptidae (Tapaculos)

WHITE-BREASTED TAPACULO (Eleoscytalopus indigoticus)

After a frustrated attempt of seeing one of these tapaculos we managed to bring one of these shy birds out into view at Caraça

BRASILIA TAPACULO (Scytalopus novacapitalis)

An excellent look at this Brazilian endemic at Canastra National Park

ROCK TAPACULO (Scytalopus petrophilus)

Very similar looking to the Brasilia Tapaculo but with a very different song and habitat requirements. We saw it well at Caraça.

Furnariidae (Ovenbirds and Woodcreepers)

CAMPO MINER (Geositta poeciloptera)

An excellent look at a displaying bird at Canastra National Park

OLIVACEOUS WOODCREEPER (Sittasomus griseicapillus)

PLANALTO WOODCREEPER (Dendrocolaptes platyrostris)

A great spot by George in the Pantanal

GREAT RUFOUS WOODCREEPER (Xiphocolaptes major)

We had a great look at this massive species on our way into Aguape in the Pantanal

RED-BILLED SCYTHEBILL (Campylorhamphus trochilirostris)

This unique woodcreeper uses its highly adapted bill to probe cavities and cracks on trees and access prey items that are beyond the reach of other birds. We had a great look at one of these birds at San Francisco Lodge

NARROW-BILLED WOODCREEPER (Lepidocolaptes angustirostris)

The most common and distinguishable woodcreeper on our tour route.

SCALED WOODCREEPER (Lepidocolaptes squamatus)

Seen at Caraça towards the end of the tour.

WING-BANDED HORNERO (Furnarius figulus)

We found this endemic Hornero at Canastra.

PALE-LEGGED HORNERO (Furnarius leucopus)

A common species along the rivers in the Pantanal. This species is alway found in the immediate vicinity of the water.

RUFOUS HORNERO (Furnarius rufus)

SHARP-TAILED STREAMCREEPER (Lochmias nematura)

Given the amount of time we spent looking for the Brazilian Merganser along the rivers at Canastra it should come as no surprise that we ran into this species that is always found along fast flowing streams.

LONG-TAILED CINCLODES (CIPO) (Cinclodes pabsti espinhacensis) [*]

BUFF-BROWED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Syndactyla rufosuperciliata) [*]

RUSSET-MANTLED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Syndactyla dimidiata)

Seen in some flooded forest at Emas National Park

BUFF-FRONTED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Dendroma rufa)

CHESTNUT-CAPPED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Clibanornis rectirostris)

We found this species in some gallery forest in on the Aquidauana River in the Pantanal.

WHITE-EYED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Automolus leucophthalmus)

RUFOUS-FRONTED THORNBIRD (Phacellodomus rufifrons)

Also known as Common Thornbird. We saw it in the Pantanal and at Emas.

GREATER THORNBIRD (Phacellodomus ruber)

A couple of sightings in the Pantanal

FIREWOOD-GATHERER (Anumbius annumbi)

We saw the bird and the nest for which it is named at Canastra

CIPO CANASTERO (Asthenes luizae)

Another highlight of our tour was hiking through the gorgeous landscape of the mountains of Minas Gerais looking for this unique and scarce species. Our efforts were rewarded with great looks at this unique bird at Cipo.

RUSTY-BACKED SPINETAIL (Cranioleuca vulpina)

A species that is always found right along the edge of the rivers. We found them in the Pantanal

PALLID SPINETAIL (Cranioleuca pallida)

RUFOUS CACHOLOTE (Pseudoseisura unirufa)

A species full of personality that we saw displaying in the Pantanal

YELLOW-CHINNED SPINETAIL (Certhiaxis cinnamomeus)

CHOTOY SPINETAIL (Schoeniophylax phryganophilus)

The only member of its genus and one of the most unique spinetails. We saw them at Aguape Lodge in the Pantanal

WHITE-LORED SPINETAIL (Synallaxis albilora)

RUFOUS-CAPPED SPINETAIL (Synallaxis ruficapilla)

CINEREOUS-BREASTED SPINETAIL (Synallaxis hypospodia)

After missing this bird at our usual spot we found one at San Francisco Lodge.

SPIX'S SPINETAIL (Synallaxis spixi)

PALE-BREASTED SPINETAIL (Synallaxis albescens)

SOOTY-FRONTED SPINETAIL (Synallaxis frontalis)

Pipridae (Manakins)

PALE-BELLIED TYRANT-MANAKIN (Neopelma pallescens)

On our way to Emas we made a strategic stop to look for this scarce species. Our stop paid off and we had a great look at this species.

SERRA DO MAR TYRANT-MANAKIN (Neopelma chrysolophum)

HELMETED MANAKIN (Antilophia galeata)

This is always a show stopper and Tim found one for us at Emas.

SWALLOW-TAILED MANAKIN (Chiroxiphia caudata)

Formerly known as Blue Manakin. We saw this breathtaking species a Caraça.

PIN-TAILED MANAKIN (Ilicura militaris)

A nice find by Yvon.

WHITE-BEARDED MANAKIN (Manacus manacus)

Cotingidae (Cotingas)

RED-RUFFED FRUITCROW (Pyroderus scutatus) [*]

Tityridae (Tityras and Allies)

BLACK-CROWNED TITYRA (Tityra inquisitor)

GREEN-BACKED BECARD (Pachyramphus viridis)

We had amazing views of this colorful species (by Becard standards) at San Francisco Lodge.

WHITE-WINGED BECARD (Pachyramphus polychopterus)

Oxyruncidae (Sharpbill, Royal Flycatcher, and Allies)

WHISKERED FLYCATCHER (YELLOW-RUMPED) (Myiobius barbatus mastacalis)

Seen with a mixed species flock at Caraça.

Tyrannidae (Tyrant Flycatchers)

GRAY-HOODED FLYCATCHER (Mionectes rufiventris)

An Atlantic forest endemic that we found at Canastra.

SEPIA-CAPPED FLYCATCHER (Leptopogon amaurocephalus)

MOTTLE-CHEEKED TYRANNULET (Phylloscartes ventralis)

SOUTHERN ANTPIPIT (Corythopis delalandi)

The name of this species is quite misleading as it is not an antbird nor a pipit. We found one of them at Canastra.

EARED PYGMY-TYRANT (Myiornis auricularis)

Tim spotted this minute bird for us at Caraça.

DRAB-BREASTED PYGMY-TYRANT (Hemitriccus diops) [*]

HANGNEST TODY-TYRANT (Hemitriccus nidipendulus)

PEARLY-VENTED TODY-TYRANT (Hemitriccus margaritaceiventer)

OCHRE-FACED TODY-FLYCATCHER (Poecilotriccus plumbeiceps)

RUSTY-FRONTED TODY-FLYCATCHER (Poecilotriccus latirostris)

GRAY-HEADED TODY-FLYCATCHER (Todirostrum poliocephalum)

COMMON TODY-FLYCATCHER (Todirostrum cinereum)

We had a great time watching this bird building a nest at the garden of our lodge at Caraça

YELLOW-OLIVE FLATBILL (MATO GROSSO) (Tolmomyias sulphurescens pallescens)

This is the subspecies we saw in the Pantanal

YELLOW-OLIVE FLATBILL (SOORETAMA) (Tolmomyias sulphurescens sulphurescens)

This is the subspecies we saw at Canastra and Caraça.

CLIFF FLYCATCHER (SWALLOW) (Hirundinea ferruginea bellicosa)

Great looks at these birds in the courtyard of our lodge at Caraça

SOUTHERN BEARDLESS-TYRANNULET (Camptostoma obsoletum)

Tim spotted this one for us.

SOUTHERN MOUSE-COLORED TYRANNULET (Nesotriccus murinus)

YELLOW TYRANNULET (Capsiempis flaveola)

BEARDED TACHURI (Polystictus pectoralis)

This was a milestone bird for John. His 3000th species. Congratulations!

GRAY-BACKED TACHURI (Polystictus superciliaris)

We found this species in the rocky outcrops of the mountains at Cipo.

SHARP-TAILED TYRANT (Culicivora caudacuta)

A lovely little flycatcher that we saw both at Emas and Canastra

SUBTROPICAL DORADITO (Pseudocolopteryx acutipennis)

FOREST ELAENIA (Myiopagis gaimardii)

GRAY-HEADED ELAENIA (Myiopagis caniceps)

Formerly knonwn simply as Gray Eleania

GREENISH ELAENIA (Myiopagis viridicata)

PLAIN-CRESTED ELAENIA (Elaenia cristata)

SMALL-HEADED ELAENIA (Elaenia sordida)

YELLOW-BELLIED ELAENIA (Elaenia flavogaster)

LARGE ELAENIA (Elaenia spectabilis)

LESSER ELAENIA (Elaenia chiriquensis)

SOOTY TYRANNULET (Serpophaga nigricans)

Seen along the Sao Francisco river in the Pantanal

PLANALTO TYRANNULET (Phyllomyias fasciatus)

RUFOUS-SIDED SCRUB-TYRANT (Euscarthmus rufomarginatus)

Formerly known as Rufous-sided Pygmy-tyrant. This bird moves into areas a couple of years after they burn. We found one at Emas National Park

PLAIN TYRANNULET (Inezia inornata)

It may be plain but it is a sought after bird as it is pretty range restricted. We saw one in the Pantanal

BRAN-COLORED FLYCATCHER (Myiophobus fasciatus)

EULER'S FLYCATCHER (Lathrotriccus euleri)

SOUTHERN TROPICAL PEWEE (Contopus cinereus)

FUSCOUS FLYCATCHER (Cnemotriccus fuscatus)

CHAPADA FLYCATCHER (Guyramemua affine)

This species was only described in 2001. We found this species at Emas National Park and saw the characteristic display that helps set it apart from the very similar Suiriri Flycatcher.

SOUTHERN SCRUB-FLYCATCHER (Sublegatus modestus)

VERMILION FLYCATCHER (Pyrocephalus rubinus)

An Austral migrant that we saw well in the Pantanal

CRESTED BLACK-TYRANT (Knipolegus lophotes)

We had nice looks at this unique species at Cipo and Canastra.

VELVETY BLACK-TYRANT (Knipolegus nigerrimus)

A regular sight at the courtyard of our lodge at Caraça

WHITE-RUMPED MONJITA (Xolmis velatus)

WHITE MONJITA (Xolmis irupero)

This sharp looking species is restricted in Brazil to the southernmost area and the extreme west. We found a bird in the Pantanal and had great looks at it.

GRAY MONJITA (Nengetus cinereus)

Common around Emas National Park

WHITE-HEADED MARSH TYRANT (Arundinicola leucocephala)

BLACK-BACKED WATER-TYRANT (Fluvicola albiventer)

MASKED WATER-TYRANT (Fluvicola nengeta)

STREAMER-TAILED TYRANT (Gubernetes yetapa)

Watching these birds display at Emas was a real treat.

COCK-TAILED TYRANT (Alectrurus tricolor)

This has to be one of the greatest flycatchers in the world, in my opinion, and we had good looks at them at Emas and absolutely stunning views of them at Canastra.

LONG-TAILED TYRANT (Colonia colonus)

SIBILANT SIRYSTES (Sirystes sibilator)

RUFOUS CASIORNIS (Casiornis rufus)

SWAINSON'S FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus swainsoni)

SHORT-CRESTED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus ferox)

BROWN-CRESTED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus tyrannulus)

CATTLE TYRANT (Machetornis rixosa)

Always fun to watch this species interacting with horses, capybara and cattle in the Pantanal

GREAT KISKADEE (Pitangus sulphuratus)

BOAT-BILLED FLYCATCHER (Megarynchus pitangua)

RUSTY-MARGINED FLYCATCHER (Myiozetetes cayanensis)

SOCIAL FLYCATCHER (Myiozetetes similis)

STREAKED FLYCATCHER (Myiodynastes maculatus)

PIRATIC FLYCATCHER (Legatus leucophaius)

Unlike parasitic birds, the Piratic Flycatcher steals the nests of other birds but incubates and raises its own young, and that is where they get their name.

VARIEGATED FLYCATCHER (Empidonomus varius)

CROWNED SLATY FLYCATCHER (Empidonomus aurantioatrocristatus)

We found this austral migrant at Emas National Park

SULPHURY FLYCATCHER (Tyrannopsis sulphurea)

This species is closely related to Mauritia Flexuosa palms and we found them in a palm grove at Emas National Park

WHITE-THROATED KINGBIRD (Tyrannus albogularis)

TROPICAL KINGBIRD (Tyrannus melancholicus)

Seen on most days of the tour.

FORK-TAILED FLYCATCHER (Tyrannus savana)

Vireonidae (Vireos, Shrike-Babblers, and Erpornis)

RUFOUS-BROWED PEPPERSHRIKE (Cyclarhis gujanensis)

GRAY-EYED GREENLET (Hylophilus amaurocephalus)

CHIVI VIREO (RESIDENT) (Vireo chivi agilis)

Corvidae (Crows, Jays, and Magpies)

PURPLISH JAY (Cyanocorax cyanomelas)

Common in the Pantanal

CURL-CRESTED JAY (Cyanocorax cristatellus)

This unique species of jay is common in the Cerrado and we had multiple looks at them at Emas National Park

PLUSH-CRESTED JAY (Cyanocorax chrysops)

Seen daily around our lodges in the Pantanal

Donacobiidae (Donacobius)

BLACK-CAPPED DONACOBIUS (Donacobius atricapilla)

Hirundinidae (Swallows)

WHITE-WINGED SWALLOW (Tachycineta albiventer)

Seen during a boat trip at San Francisco lodge.

WHITE-RUMPED SWALLOW (Tachycineta leucorrhoa)

Seen at Emas and Canastra. This species is an Austral migrant and moves in from the South in the winter.

GRAY-BREASTED MARTIN (Progne chalybea)

BROWN-CHESTED MARTIN (Progne tapera)

SOUTHERN ROUGH-WINGED SWALLOW (Stelgidopteryx ruficollis)

BLUE-AND-WHITE SWALLOW (Pygochelidon cyanoleuca)

TAWNY-HEADED SWALLOW (Alopochelidon fucata)

We had great looks at this scarce species at Canastra National Park.

BARN SWALLOW (Hirundo rustica)

CLIFF SWALLOW (Petrochelidon pyrrhonota)

Seen in good numbers at Emas National Park

Polioptilidae (Gnatcatchers)

MASKED GNATCATCHER (Polioptila dumicola)

Troglodytidae (Wrens)

HOUSE WREN (Troglodytes aedon)

GRASS WREN (Cistothorus platensis)

Formerly known as Sedge Wren, but the species has been split into multiple species recently

THRUSH-LIKE WREN (UNSPOTTED) (Campylorhynchus turdinus unicolor)

This species is quite widespread in South America but there are three very distinctive subspecies. The birds we saw in the Pantanal belong to the subspecies unicolor that has virtually no spots on the breast.

FAWN-BREASTED WREN (Cantorchilus guarayanus)

This is one of the most range restricted wrens in Brazil. We found them in the Pantanal

Mimidae (Mockingbirds and Thrashers)

CHALK-BROWED MOCKINGBIRD (Mimus saturninus)

WHITE-BANDED MOCKINGBIRD (Mimus triurus)

A migrant that moves into the Pantanal during the austral winter.

Turdidae (Thrushes and Allies)

PALE-BREASTED THRUSH (Turdus leucomelas)

RUFOUS-BELLIED THRUSH (Turdus rufiventris)

A close relative of the American Robin and the national bird of Brazil.

BLACKSMITH THRUSH (Turdus subalaris)

An austral migrant that shows up in small numbers, but makes a lot of noise. We found one behind our lodge at Canastra

CREAMY-BELLIED THRUSH (Turdus amaurochalinus)

Passeridae (Old World Sparrows)

HOUSE SPARROW (Passer domesticus)

Motacillidae (Wagtails and Pipits)

YELLOWISH PIPIT (Anthus chii)

OCHRE-BREASTED PIPIT (Anthus nattereri)

Scope views of this scarce species on the high plateau of Canastra

Fringillidae (Finches, Euphonias, and Allies)

PURPLE-THROATED EUPHONIA (Euphonia chlorotica)

HOODED SISKIN (Spinus magellanicus)

Passerellidae (New World Sparrows)

GRASSLAND SPARROW (Ammodramus humeralis)

SAFFRON-BILLED SPARROW (Arremon flavirostris)

A great looks at this handsome sparrow at San Francisco Lodge

RUFOUS-COLLARED SPARROW (Zonotrichia capensis)

As it is often the case with species that are very widespread, the Rufous-collared Sparrow has many subspecies (27 in total). The birds we saw at Minas Gerais belong to the subtorquata subspecies.

Icteridae (Troupials and Allies)

WHITE-BROWED MEADOWLARK (Leistes superciliaris)

CRESTED OROPENDOLA (Psarocolius decumanus)

SOLITARY BLACK CACIQUE (Cacicus solitarius)

GOLDEN-WINGED CACIQUE (Cacicus chrysopterus)

The main range of this species is in the Atlantic forest but it barely makes it into the Pantanal. We saw them at San Francisco Lodge.

RED-RUMPED CACIQUE (Cacicus haemorrhous)

VARIABLE ORIOLE (Icterus pyrrhopterus)

A great looks at this species pigging out on some Mango in the Pantanal

ORANGE-BACKED TROUPIAL (Icterus croconotus strictifrons)

This colorful species is a close relative of the North American Orioles. We had multiple views in the Pantanal.

SCREAMING COWBIRD (Molothrus rufoaxillaris)

The feeders at Aguape Lodge provided a good opportunity to observe this species side by side with the very similar Shiny Cowbird.

SHINY COWBIRD (Molothrus bonariensis)

GIANT COWBIRD (Molothrus oryzivorus)

SCARLET-HEADED BLACKBIRD (Amblyramphus holosericeus)

A scarce species that is found in marshy areas in the Pantanal. We found them at San Francisco Lodge

CHOPI BLACKBIRD (Gnorimopsar chopi)

It was amazing to see them mobbing an Aplomado Falcon. Talk about living dangerously.

GRAYISH BAYWING (Agelaioides badius)

Formerly called Baywing Cowbird, but the species is not a cowbird as it does not parasitize the nests of other birds, instead it is parasitized by Screaming Cowbirds

UNICOLORED BLACKBIRD (Agelasticus cyanopus)

CHESTNUT-CAPPED BLACKBIRD (Chrysomus ruficapillus)

YELLOW-RUMPED MARSHBIRD (Pseudoleistes guirahuro)

Parulidae (New World Warblers)

SOUTHERN YELLOWTHROAT (Geothlypis velata)

Formerly called Masked Yellowthroat but it has recently been split

TROPICAL PARULA (Setophaga pitiayumi)

GOLDEN-CROWNED WARBLER (WHITE-BELLIED) (Basileuterus culicivorus hypoleucus)

WHITE-STRIPED WARBLER (Myiothlypis leucophrys)

Seen in some flooded forest at Emas National Park

FLAVESCENT WARBLER (Myiothlypis flaveola)

WHITE-BROWED WARBLER (Myiothlypis leucoblephara)

Yet another species that is typical of the Atlantic Forest that we found at Caraça.

Cardinalidae (Cardinals and Allies)

HEPATIC TANAGER (LOWLAND) (Piranga flava flava)

Thraupidae (Tanagers and Allies)

RED-CRESTED CARDINAL (Paroaria coronata)

A common species in the Pantanal. This species has been introduced to many places but is native in the Pantanal

YELLOW-BILLED CARDINAL (Paroaria capitata)

Another common species in the Pantanal

CINNAMON TANAGER (Schistochlamys ruficapillus)

We saw this beautiful species at Canastra. The species is not considered a Brazilian Endemic but there are very few records outside of Brazil

MAGPIE TANAGER (Cissopis leverianus)

WHITE-BANDED TANAGER (Neothraupis fasciata)

Sometimes called Shrike-like Tanager. We saw many of them at Emas National Park

HOODED TANAGER (Nemosia pileata)

CINEREOUS WARBLING FINCH (Microspingus cinereus)

A Brazilian endemic that is pretty scarce but we had excellent looks at one at Cipo

BLACK-GOGGLED TANAGER (Trichothraupis melanops)

GRAY-HEADED TANAGER (Eucometis penicillata)

RUBY-CROWNED TANAGER (Tachyphonus coronatus)

A classic case of a bird being named after a feature that is rarely seen

WHITE-LINED TANAGER (Tachyphonus rufus)

SILVER-BEAKED TANAGER (Ramphocelus carbo)

SAYACA TANAGER (Thraupis sayaca)

PALM TANAGER (Thraupis palmarum)

BURNISHED-BUFF TANAGER (Stilpnia cayana)

BRASSY-BREASTED TANAGER (Tangara desmaresti)

Maureen spotted this little gem for us at Caraça and we had great looks at it

GILT-EDGED TANAGER (Tangara cyanoventris)

Multilple views of this colorful bird at Canastra and Caraça.

SWALLOW TANAGER (Tersina viridis)

BLUE DACNIS (Dacnis cayana)

RUFOUS-HEADED TANAGER (Hemithraupis ruficapilla)

Seen with mixed species flocks at Caraça

CHESTNUT-VENTED CONEBILL (Conirostrum speciosum)

UNIFORM FINCH (Haplospiza unicolor)

This is a bamboo specialist that we found at Caraça.

BLUE FINCH (Rhopospina caerulescens)

We had amazing views of this beautiful bird at Cipó

WHITE-RUMPED TANAGER (Cypsnagra hirundinacea)

STRIPE-TAILED YELLOW-FINCH (Sicalis citrina)

Seen in the grass fields of the upper plateau of Canastra National Park

SAFFRON FINCH (Sicalis flaveola)

Seen almost every day on our tour

GRASSLAND YELLOW-FINCH (GRASSLAND) (Sicalis luteola luteiventris)

WEDGE-TAILED GRASS-FINCH (Emberizoides herbicola)

Multiple sightings at Emas National Park

LESSER GRASS-FINCH (Emberizoides ypiranganus)

This Grass-finch prefers flooded grass fields. We found them near Emas National Park.

PALE-THROATED PAMPA-FINCH (Embernagra longicauda)

A Brazilian endemic that is restricted to the mountains of eastern Brazil. We had good looks at them at Caraça

BLUE-BLACK GRASSQUIT (Volatinia jacarina)

WHITE-BELLIED SEEDEATER (Sporophila leucoptera)

Seen a couple of times in the Pantanal

DARK-THROATED SEEDEATER (Sporophila ruficollis)

An austral migrant that we found at Aguapé Lodge.

CHESTNUT-BELLIED SEED-FINCH (Sporophila angolensis)

YELLOW-BELLIED SEEDEATER (Sporophila nigricollis)

DUBOIS'S SEEDEATER (Sporophila ardesiaca)

A Brazilian endemic that is very similar to the Yellow-bellied Seedeater but has an all white belly. We saw them at Canastra and Cipo.

DOUBLE-COLLARED SEEDEATER (Sporophila caerulescens)

PLUMBEOUS SEEDEATER (Sporophila plumbea)

RUSTY-COLLARED SEEDEATER (Sporophila collaris)

COAL-CRESTED FINCH (Charitospiza eucosma)

A nomadic species that can be hard to find but we had wonderful looks at a male and female at Emas National Park

BLACK-MASKED FINCH (Coryphaspiza melanotis)

Yvon spotted this one for us at Emas after I had heard some without any success in locating them

PILEATED FINCH (Coryphospingus pileatus)

RED-CRESTED FINCH (Coryphospingus cucullatus)

BANANAQUIT (Coereba flaveola)

BLACK-THROATED SALTATOR (Saltatricula atricollis)

BLUISH-GRAY SALTATOR (Saltator coerulescens)

Formerly known as Grayish Saltator

GREEN-WINGED SALTATOR (Saltator similis)

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MAMMALS

TUFTED-EAR MARMOSET (Callithrix jacchus)

BLACK HOWLER MONKEY (Alouatta caraya)

BROWN CAPUCHIN (Cebus apella)

GIANT ANTEATER (Myrmecophaga tridactyla)

SOUTHERN TAMANDUA (Tamandua tetradactyla)

SIX-BANDED (YELLOW) ARMADILLO (Euphractus sexcinctus)

BRAZILIAN RABBIT (Sylvilagus brasiliensis)

GUIANAN SQUIRREL (Sciurus aestuans)

CAPYBARA (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris)

HOARY FOX (Lycalopex vetulus)

CRAB-EATING FOX (Cerdocyon thous)

MANED WOLF (Chrysocyon brachyurus)

SOUTH AMERICAN COATI (Nasua nasua)

TAYRA (Eira barbara)

STRIPED HOG-NOSED SKUNK (Conepatus semistriatus)

OCELOT (Felis pardalis)

BRAZILIAN TAPIR (Tapirus terrestris)

WILD BOAR (Sus scrofa)

COLLARED PECCARY (Tayassu tajacu)

MARSH DEER (Blastocerus dichotomus)

PAMPAS DEER (Ozotoceros bezoarticus)

RED BROCKET DEER (Mazama americana)

BROWN BROCKET DEER (Mazama gouazoubira)

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HERPS

GOLDEN TEGU (Tupinambis teguixin)

YELLOW ANACONDA (Eunectes notaeus)

TROPICAL (OR SOUTH AMERICAN) RATTLESNAKE (Crotalus durissus)

PARAGUAYAN CAIMAN (Caiman yacare)

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Totals for the tour: 427 bird taxa and 23 mammal taxa