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This female Blue-billed Curassow was (lucky for us!) wandering down the road at El Paujil and became one of the two top birds of the tour! (Photo by guide Trevor Ellery)
A great tour with a fun group and lots (I mean lots) of birds. Logistics went smoothly, our driver, Giovanni, drove straight and true (except on those curvy Andean roads!), and the group played well and worked hard to spot and point out birds. Trevor and I can't thank this group enough for your effort, trust me, it paid off as we saw nearly 600 taxa on this trip! Last year was my best effort to date, but we crushed it this year with 593 taxa and 10 mammals. Few tours (very few) break the 500 mark, so recording nearly 600 puts you at an elite level.
Your highlights were many (as expected with such a long tour and so many cool birds), but they included Vermilion Cardinal (singing in the dry forest at Los Camerones; man, that crest!), Turquoise Dacnis (I think Jesse called his shot on this one; 5:15 pm!), Bogota Rail and Apolinar's Wren (both seen in the sadly disappearing marshes around Bogota), Santa Marta Antbird (a recent split of "Long-tailed"), Santa Marta Parakeets (had us sweating bullets until the late hour of 7:30 am), and Beautiful Woodpecker (we could have saved the walk and drunk beers at the lodge). However, y'alls favorite two birds were the Recurve-billed Bushbird and Blue-billed Curassow. The bushbird has returned in nice fashion to the green bamboo shoots above Ocana. They have been quiet and difficult the last few years, but this year was very different. We had several singing individuals at two different sites, and we were able to see them very well. The curassow, well, that was just crazy. A female was wandering near the grounds of the lodge, and we eventually found her footprint and tracked her down. ;-) Such a fabulous bird.
Thanks again to the group (patience, hard work, and camaraderie), to Giovanni, and Trevor. It was a solid team effort. All the best and good birding for 2015.
--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
BIRDS
Tinamidae (Tinamous)
Black-backed Thornbill was one of many exciting (and brilliant) species of hummers we saw -- 47 taxa in all! (Photo by guide Trevor Ellery)
GRAY TINAMOU (Tinamus tao)
GREAT TINAMOU (Tinamus major) – One observed at Paujil for a long time as it froze in place, presumably after flushing from a nest.
LITTLE TINAMOU (Crypturellus soui) [*]
Anhimidae (Screamers)
NORTHERN SCREAMER (Chauna chavaria) – We had nice looks at four individuals along the entrance road to Paujil; another pair was seen on the way out. Just three species in this strictly New World family and several people swept the family with these birds.
Anatidae (Ducks, Geese, and Waterfowl)
BLACK-BELLIED WHISTLING-DUCK (Dendrocygna autumnalis)
BLUE-WINGED TEAL (Anas discors)
NORTHERN SHOVELER (Anas clypeata) – Three (1 m, 2 f) were seen near the mouth of the Magdalena on the north coast. Rare winter visitor to Colombia.
RUDDY DUCK (RUDDY) (Oxyura jamaicensis andina) – It isn't clear to me what variation there exists in Colombian Ruddy Ducks. I suspect that male's range from having nearly white cheeks (like northern Ruddy Ducks) to all black heads (typical of the resident Andean ducks). Northern (migrant) Ruddy Ducks possibly only occur as rare winter visitors on the north coast.
Cracidae (Guans, Chachalacas, and Curassows)
CHESTNUT-WINGED CHACHALACA (Ortalis garrula) – Seen near Rodadero on our first afternoon. We watched several fly across the road. Perfect situation. [E]
RUFOUS-VENTED CHACHALACA (RUFOUS-VENTED) (Ortalis ruficauda ruficrissa) [*]
COLOMBIAN CHACHALACA (Ortalis columbiana) – Seen well several times, but our best was a perched bird close to the bus as we left the Paujil Reserve. [E]
BAND-TAILED GUAN (Penelope argyrotis)
CRESTED GUAN (Penelope purpurascens) [*]
SICKLE-WINGED GUAN (Chamaepetes goudotii) – Long looks at a bird near the ecotienda in the Santa Martas. Wow.
BLUE-BILLED CURASSOW (Crax alberti) – Excellent! A big target for us at the Paujil Reserve. We watched a female walking down the road towards us and later she crossed paths with us in the forest near her nest. The footprint was the clue! ;-) [E]
Odontophoridae (New World Quail)
CRESTED BOBWHITE (Colinus cristatus)
White-whiskered Spinetail at La Guajira -- one of the specialty birds of the dry habitats of the extreme northeast of Colombia. (Photo by guide Trevor Ellery)
BLACK-FRONTED WOOD-QUAIL (Odontophorus atrifrons)
GORGETED WOOD-QUAIL (Odontophorus strophium) [E*]
Podicipedidae (Grebes)
LEAST GREBE (Tachybaptus dominicus)
PIED-BILLED GREBE (Podilymbus podiceps)
Ciconiidae (Storks)
WOOD STORK (Mycteria americana)
Fregatidae (Frigatebirds)
MAGNIFICENT FRIGATEBIRD (Fregata magnificens)
Phalacrocoracidae (Cormorants and Shags)
NEOTROPIC CORMORANT (Phalacrocorax brasilianus)
Anhingidae (Anhingas)
ANHINGA (Anhinga anhinga)
Pelecanidae (Pelicans)
BROWN PELICAN (Pelecanus occidentalis)
Ardeidae (Herons, Egrets, and Bitterns)
RUFESCENT TIGER-HERON (Tigrisoma lineatum marmoratum)
GREAT BLUE HERON (Ardea herodias) – Just a couple on the north coast where a rare winter visitor.
COCOI HERON (Ardea cocoi)
GREAT EGRET (Ardea alba)
SNOWY EGRET (Egretta thula)
LITTLE BLUE HERON (Egretta caerulea)
TRICOLORED HERON (Egretta tricolor)
REDDISH EGRET (Egretta rufescens)
CATTLE EGRET (Bubulcus ibis)
GREEN HERON (Butorides virescens) – As with Great Blue Heron, this is a rare, but regular winter visitor to the north coast.
STRIATED HERON (Butorides striata)
Capped Heron -- always lovely, no matter how many times we've seen it! (Photo by guide Trevor Ellery)
BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON (Nycticorax nycticorax)
Threskiornithidae (Ibises and Spoonbills)
WHITE IBIS (Eudocimus albus)
SCARLET IBIS (Eudocimus ruber)
GLOSSY IBIS (Plegadis falcinellus)
GREEN IBIS (Mesembrinibis cayennensis) – This species is very rare in the Magdalena Valley. A first for Trevor in this region. Seen along the entrance road to the Paujil Reserve.
BARE-FACED IBIS (Phimosus infuscatus)
BUFF-NECKED IBIS (Theristicus caudatus) – Very rare in the Magdalena and seen by just a few on the drive.
ROSEATE SPOONBILL (Platalea ajaja)
Cathartidae (New World Vultures)
BLACK VULTURE (Coragyps atratus)
TURKEY VULTURE (Cathartes aura)
LESSER YELLOW-HEADED VULTURE (Cathartes burrovianus)
KING VULTURE (Sarcoramphus papa)
Pandionidae (Osprey)
OSPREY (Pandion haliaetus)
Accipitridae (Hawks, Eagles, and Kites)
PEARL KITE (Gampsonyx swainsonii)
WHITE-TAILED KITE (Elanus leucurus)
BLACK HAWK-EAGLE (Spizaetus tyrannus)
BLACK-AND-WHITE HAWK-EAGLE (Spizaetus melanoleucus) – An adult soared high over us as we birded the lower sections of the Santa Martas.
BLACK-AND-CHESTNUT EAGLE (Spizaetus isidori) – Another good Santa Marta raptor that was seen soaring on the drive up.
BLACK-COLLARED HAWK (Busarellus nigricollis) – In my opinion, one of the loveliest raptors. We saw several on the drive up the Magdalena Valley. Always near water.
SNAIL KITE (Rostrhamus sociabilis)
DOUBLE-TOOTHED KITE (Harpagus bidentatus)
PLUMBEOUS KITE (Ictinia plumbea)
SHARP-SHINNED HAWK (PLAIN-BREASTED) (Accipiter striatus ventralis)
CRANE HAWK (Geranospiza caerulescens)
COMMON BLACK HAWK (Buteogallus anthracinus)
SAVANNA HAWK (Buteogallus meridionalis)
ROADSIDE HAWK (Rupornis magnirostris)
This adult Collared Forest-Falcon was one of many fine raptor sightings for the tour. (Photo by guide Trevor Ellery)
BLACK-CHESTED BUZZARD-EAGLE (Geranoaetus melanoleucus)
BROAD-WINGED HAWK (Buteo platypterus)
GRAY-LINED HAWK (Buteo nitidus)
SHORT-TAILED HAWK (Buteo brachyurus)
ZONE-TAILED HAWK (Buteo albonotatus)
Rallidae (Rails, Gallinules, and Coots)
BOGOTA RAIL (Rallus semiplumbeus) – We had to work at it, but eventually had a bird stick his head out of the reeds, then walk across a small opening a few times. Whew! [E]
GRAY-NECKED WOOD-RAIL (Aramides cajaneus)
SORA (Porzana carolina)
PURPLE GALLINULE (Porphyrio martinicus)
COMMON GALLINULE (Gallinula galeata)
SPOT-FLANKED GALLINULE (Gallinula melanops) – Seen at La Florida marshes. Difficult to "spot."
AMERICAN COOT (Fulica americana columbiana)
Aramidae (Limpkin)
LIMPKIN (Aramus guarauna)
Burhinidae (Thick-knees)
DOUBLE-STRIPED THICK-KNEE (Burhinus bistriatus) – Giovanni (our driver) knew of a spot for them. Sure enough, they were right in place. We watched them sitting around or sleeping in the hot afternoon sun (but they were in the shade of a tree!).
Recurvirostridae (Stilts and Avocets)
BLACK-NECKED STILT (Himantopus mexicanus)
Charadriidae (Plovers and Lapwings)
BLACK-BELLIED PLOVER (Pluvialis squatarola)
SOUTHERN LAPWING (Vanellus chilensis)
SEMIPALMATED PLOVER (Charadrius semipalmatus)
Jacanidae (Jacanas)
WATTLED JACANA (Jacana jacana)
Scolopacidae (Sandpipers and Allies)
SPOTTED SANDPIPER (Actitis macularius)
SOLITARY SANDPIPER (Tringa solitaria)
Black-chested Jay at El Paujil Reserve (Photo by guide Trevor Ellery)
WILLET (Tringa semipalmata)
WHIMBREL (Numenius phaeopus)
MARBLED GODWIT (Limosa fedoa)
RUDDY TURNSTONE (Arenaria interpres) – One of the last new birds seen at the Santa Marta airport.
LEAST SANDPIPER (Calidris minutilla)
SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPER (Calidris pusilla)
WESTERN SANDPIPER (Calidris mauri)
NOBLE SNIPE (Gallinago nobilis) – Good spotting by the group to find these cryptic birds in the low reeds at La Florida marsh. They were also calling which was neat to hear.
Laridae (Gulls, Terns, and Skimmers)
LAUGHING GULL (Leucophaeus atricilla)
HERRING GULL (Larus argentatus)
LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL (Larus fuscus)
YELLOW-BILLED TERN (Sternula superciliaris)
LARGE-BILLED TERN (Phaetusa simplex)
CASPIAN TERN (Hydroprogne caspia)
ROYAL TERN (Thalasseus maximus)
SANDWICH TERN (Thalasseus sandvicensis) – There has been some talk of splitting New World and Old World "Sandwich" Terns. If this happens, everything in the New World would be called, Cabot's Tern (T.s. acuflavida). It is somewhat smaller in size and some genetic evidence aligns it more closely with Elegant Tern, and not Old World Sandwich Terns.
BLACK SKIMMER (Rynchops niger)
Columbidae (Pigeons and Doves)
ROCK PIGEON (Columba livia) [I]
PALE-VENTED PIGEON (Patagioenas cayennensis)
SCALED PIGEON (Patagioenas speciosa)
BARE-EYED PIGEON (Patagioenas corensis)
BAND-TAILED PIGEON (WHITE-NECKED) (Patagioenas fasciata albilinea)
PLUMBEOUS PIGEON (Patagioenas plumbea chapmani)
RUDDY PIGEON (Patagioenas subvinacea)
COMMON GROUND-DOVE (Columbina passerina)
RUDDY GROUND-DOVE (Columbina talpacoti)
SCALED DOVE (Columbina squammata)
BLUE GROUND-DOVE (Claravis pretiosa)
WHITE-TIPPED DOVE (Leptotila verreauxi)
A little nightbirding at El Paujil brought out this Mottled Owl. (Photo by guide Jesse Fagan)
LINED QUAIL-DOVE (Zentrygon linearis)
EARED DOVE (Zenaida auriculata)
Cuculidae (Cuckoos)
LITTLE CUCKOO (Coccycua minuta)
DWARF CUCKOO (Coccycua pumila)
SQUIRREL CUCKOO (Piaya cayana)
YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO (Coccyzus americanus)
STRIPED CUCKOO (Tapera naevia)
GREATER ANI (Crotophaga major)
SMOOTH-BILLED ANI (Crotophaga ani)
GROOVE-BILLED ANI (Crotophaga sulcirostris)
Strigidae (Owls)
TROPICAL SCREECH-OWL (Megascops choliba)
SCREECH-OWL SP. (Megascops sp.) – This is the undescribed Santa Marta Screech-Owl. All of us heard this species, but a few hardy folks on the second night managed to see it very well in the spotlight.
CRESTED OWL (Lophostrix cristata) [*]
SPECTACLED OWL (Pulsatrix perspicillata) [*]
ANDEAN PYGMY-OWL (Glaucidium jardinii)
FERRUGINOUS PYGMY-OWL (Glaucidium brasilianum)
MOTTLED OWL (Ciccaba virgata)
STYGIAN OWL (Asio stygius) – Cool experience with a pair near San Lorenzo Ridge, Santa Martas, in the pre-dawn darkness.
Caprimulgidae (Nightjars and Allies)
LESSER NIGHTHAWK (Chordeiles acutipennis)
COMMON PAURAQUE (Nyctidromus albicollis)
WHITE-TAILED NIGHTJAR (Hydropsalis cayennensis) – Seen by a couple of folks on the drive up to Reinita Cielo Azul Reserve.
Nyctibiidae (Potoos)
COMMON POTOO (Nyctibius griseus) – Long looks at this bird in the spotlight on our evening owling in the Paujil Reserve. Very cool.
Apodidae (Swifts)
CHESTNUT-COLLARED SWIFT (Streptoprocne rutila)
WHITE-COLLARED SWIFT (Streptoprocne zonaris)
CHAPMAN'S SWIFT (Chaetura chapmani) – This species was seen drinking from the small pond on the Paujil Reserve. (Very?) rare wanderer and austral visitor to Colombia; status unclear.
SHORT-TAILED SWIFT (Chaetura brachyura)
GRAY-RUMPED SWIFT (Chaetura cinereiventris)
LESSER SWALLOW-TAILED SWIFT (Panyptila cayennensis)
Trochilidae (Hummingbirds)
WHITE-NECKED JACOBIN (Florisuga mellivora)
RUFOUS-BREASTED HERMIT (Glaucis hirsutus)
Who is that peeking out through the bamboo? Well, the bill profile gives it away...one of the other group favorites: Recurve-billed Bushbird! (Photo by guide Jesse Fagan)
GREEN HERMIT (Phaethornis guy)
LONG-BILLED HERMIT (Phaethornis longirostris)
PALE-BELLIED HERMIT (Phaethornis anthophilus)
STRIPE-THROATED HERMIT (Phaethornis striigularis)
SOOTY-CAPPED HERMIT (Phaethornis augusti)
GREEN-FRONTED LANCEBILL (Doryfera ludovicae)
BROWN VIOLETEAR (Colibri delphinae)
GREEN VIOLETEAR (Colibri thalassinus)
SPARKLING VIOLETEAR (Colibri coruscans)
BLACK-THROATED MANGO (Anthracothorax nigricollis)
SPECKLED HUMMINGBIRD (Adelomyia melanogenys)
BLOSSOMCROWN (Anthocephala floriceps) – Lovely looks at Palo Alto after some waiting around. [E]
LONG-TAILED SYLPH (Aglaiocercus kingii)
BLACK-BACKED THORNBILL (Ramphomicron dorsale) – Some of the best looks I have had of this species. An adult male was a regular to the feeder at El Dorado. Very difficult to see otherwise. [E]
PURPLE-BACKED THORNBILL (Ramphomicron microrhynchum)
BRONZE-TAILED THORNBILL (Chalcostigma heteropogon) – One was perched for a brief period on our first day at Chingaza NP.
TYRIAN METALTAIL (Metallura tyrianthina)
TYRIAN METALTAIL (Metallura tyrianthina districta) – The subspecies seen in the Santa Marta range.
GLOWING PUFFLEG (Eriocnemis vestita)
BLACK INCA (Coeligena prunellei) – Good numbers at the interior feeders at Reinita Cielo Azul. [E]
WHITE-TAILED STARFRONTLET (Coeligena phalerata) – Males and females were coming to the feeders at El Dorado. A large, good-looking hummingbird. [E]
MOUNTAIN VELVETBREAST (Lafresnaya lafresnayi)
GREAT SAPPHIREWING (Pterophanes cyanopterus)
BUFF-TAILED CORONET (Boissonneaua flavescens)
BOOTED RACKET-TAIL (Ocreatus underwoodii)
FAWN-BREASTED BRILLIANT (Heliodoxa rubinoides)
GREEN-CROWNED BRILLIANT (Heliodoxa jacula)
LONG-BILLED STARTHROAT (Heliomaster longirostris)
GORGETED WOODSTAR (Chaetocercus heliodor) – This tiny hummingbird, which flew like a moth, was seen at Jardin Encantado.
RED-BILLED EMERALD (Chlorostilbon gibsoni)
COPPERY EMERALD (Chlorostilbon russatus)
Golden-hooded Tanager at El Paujil (Photo by guide Trevor Ellery)
LAZULINE SABREWING (Campylopterus falcatus)
WHITE-VENTED PLUMELETEER (Chalybura buffonii)
CROWNED WOODNYMPH (Thalurania colombica)
BUFFY HUMMINGBIRD (Leucippus fallax) – With some patience and off trail bushwacking, we were rewarded with finding this species perched near some flowers. Nice work group.
CHESTNUT-BELLIED HUMMINGBIRD (Amazilia castaneiventris) – A ratty looking individual was seen at the coffee finca feeders on our way down from Reinita Cielo Azul lodge. [E]
ANDEAN EMERALD (Amazilia franciae)
BLUE-CHESTED HUMMINGBIRD (Amazilia amabilis)
STEELY-VENTED HUMMINGBIRD (Amazilia saucerrottei)
INDIGO-CAPPED HUMMINGBIRD (Amazilia cyanifrons) – Lots were around the feeders at Jardin Encantado; again in several other locations. [E]
RUFOUS-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD (Amazilia tzacatl)
SAPPHIRE-THROATED HUMMINGBIRD (Lepidopyga coeruleogularis) – Several seen at Salamanca including one individual that showed quickly, but could have been Sapphire-bellied. The guides never felt comfortable with it (and seeing it so briefly), so we leave it off the list.
SHINING-GREEN HUMMINGBIRD (Lepidopyga goudoti) – Nice looks of at least one individual (more likely two) at Paujil feeders.
VIOLET-BELLIED HUMMINGBIRD (Damophila julie)
Trogonidae (Trogons)
WHITE-TIPPED QUETZAL (Pharomachrus fulgidus) – One seen well in the Santa Martas, just below San Lorenzo Ridge.
BLACK-TAILED TROGON (Trogon melanurus) [*]
WHITE-TAILED TROGON (Trogon chionurus)
GARTERED TROGON (Trogon caligatus) [*]
COLLARED TROGON (Trogon collaris)
MASKED TROGON (Trogon personatus sanctaemartae)
Momotidae (Motmots)
WHOOPING MOTMOT (Momotus subrufescens)
ANDEAN MOTMOT (Momotus aequatorialis)
RUFOUS MOTMOT (Baryphthengus martii)
BROAD-BILLED MOTMOT (Electron platyrhynchum)
Alcedinidae (Kingfishers)
RINGED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle torquata)
GREEN KINGFISHER (Chloroceryle americana)
AMERICAN PYGMY KINGFISHER (Chloroceryle aenea)
Bucconidae (Puffbirds)
BLACK-BREASTED PUFFBIRD (Notharchus pectoralis) – Eventually, with lots of trolling and looking at tree tops we found one calling near the end of our long walk at Paujil.
PIED PUFFBIRD (Notharchus tectus) – A pair perched together, and seen from the bus, was not expected, but appreciated.
Buffy Hummingbird, another specialist of the dry habitats at La Guajira (Photo by guide Trevor Ellery)
RUSSET-THROATED PUFFBIRD (Hypnelus ruficollis)
MOUSTACHED PUFFBIRD (Malacoptila mystacalis)
WHITE-FRONTED NUNBIRD (Monasa morphoeus)
Galbulidae (Jacamars)
RUFOUS-TAILED JACAMAR (Galbula ruficauda)
Capitonidae (New World Barbets)
WHITE-MANTLED BARBET (Capito hypoleucus) – Seen well at Paujil, but heard again at Reinita (we didn't bother). [E]
Ramphastidae (Toucans)
EMERALD TOUCANET (Aulacorhynchus prasinus) – Seen above Libano feeding on Cecropia fruit.
EMERALD TOUCANET (SANTA MARTA) (Aulacorhynchus prasinus lautus)
GROOVE-BILLED TOUCANET (YELLOW-BILLED) (Aulacorhynchus sulcatus calorhynchus) – A responsive bird that perched in the open above the ecotienda, Santa Martas.
CRIMSON-RUMPED TOUCANET (Aulacorhynchus haematopygus)
COLLARED ARACARI (Pteroglossus torquatus)
BLACK-MANDIBLED TOUCAN (CHESTNUT-MANDIBLED) (Ramphastos ambiguus swainsonii)
KEEL-BILLED TOUCAN (Ramphastos sulfuratus)
CHANNEL-BILLED TOUCAN (CITRON-THROATED) (Ramphastos vitellinus citreolaemus)
Picidae (Woodpeckers)
OLIVACEOUS PICULET (Picumnus olivaceus)
CHESTNUT PICULET (Picumnus cinnamomeus) – Surprisingly common on this year's tour (not that I am complaining).
BEAUTIFUL WOODPECKER (Melanerpes pulcher) – Three above the lodge after we spent all day in the field looking for them was...frustrating and awkward. [E]
RED-CROWNED WOODPECKER (Melanerpes rubricapillus)
SMOKY-BROWN WOODPECKER (Picoides fumigatus)
RED-RUMPED WOODPECKER (Veniliornis kirkii)
GOLDEN-GREEN WOODPECKER (GOLD-THROATED) (Piculus chrysochloros xanthochlorus) [*]
GOLDEN-OLIVE WOODPECKER (Colaptes rubiginosus) [*]
SPOT-BREASTED WOODPECKER (Colaptes punctigula)
CINNAMON WOODPECKER (Celeus loricatus)
LINEATED WOODPECKER (Dryocopus lineatus)
CRIMSON-CRESTED WOODPECKER (Campephilus melanoleucos) – Nice big woodpecker that we had the fortune to study from our lounge chairs at Paujil.
Falconidae (Falcons and Caracaras)
COLLARED FOREST-FALCON (Micrastur semitorquatus) – One of our highlights from the long walk at Paujil was calling this bird into an exposed branch over our heads. Very nice.
CRESTED CARACARA (Caracara cheriway)
YELLOW-HEADED CARACARA (Milvago chimachima chimachima)
Double-toothed Kite at the Paujil reserve (Photo by guide Trevor Ellery)
AMERICAN KESTREL (Falco sparverius)
APLOMADO FALCON (Falco femoralis)
BAT FALCON (Falco rufigularis)
PEREGRINE FALCON (Falco peregrinus)
Psittacidae (New World and African Parrots)
ORANGE-CHINNED PARAKEET (Brotogeris jugularis)
SAFFRON-HEADED PARROT (Pyrilia pyrilia) – Just all too brief views in flight. :-(
RED-BILLED PARROT (Pionus sordidus saturatus)
BLUE-HEADED PARROT (Pionus menstruus)
RED-LORED PARROT (Amazona autumnalis)
YELLOW-CROWNED PARROT (Amazona ochrocephala)
SCALY-NAPED PARROT (Amazona mercenarius)
GREEN-RUMPED PARROTLET (Forpus passerinus)
SPECTACLED PARROTLET (Forpus conspicillatus)
SANTA MARTA PARAKEET (Pyrrhura viridicata) – They arrived late (why did we get up so early?!), but when they arrived they showed so well. Worth the wait. [E]
BROWN-THROATED PARAKEET (Eupsittula pertinax)
BLUE-AND-YELLOW MACAW (Ara ararauna)
CHESTNUT-FRONTED MACAW (Ara severus)
BLUE-CROWNED PARAKEET (BLUE-CROWNED) (Thectocercus acuticaudatus koenigi) – Missed on most tours. A good find for us as we walked back to the van during our first outing in the dry forest of the Guajira.
SCARLET-FRONTED PARAKEET (Psittacara wagleri)
Thamnophilidae (Typical Antbirds)
RUFOUS-RUMPED ANTWREN (Euchrepomis callinota) [*]
GREAT ANTSHRIKE (Taraba major)
BLACK-CRESTED ANTSHRIKE (Sakesphorus canadensis)
BARRED ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus doliatus)
BAR-CRESTED ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus multistriatus) – This endemic is fairly common on the first half of the trip. [E]
BLACK-CROWNED ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus atrinucha)
BLACK ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus nigriceps) – A sneaky one along the river at Paujil.
BLACK-BACKED ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus melanonotus) – The group found this after Jesse left, but they were in good hands with Trevor. Nice work.
RECURVE-BILLED BUSHBIRD (Clytoctantes alixii) – Such a wonderful experience with this rare and local species. The bamboo was back and that probably had something to do with us hearing (and seeing) so many.
PLAIN ANTVIREO (Dysithamnus mentalis)
CHECKER-THROATED ANTWREN (Epinecrophylla fulviventris)
SLATY ANTWREN (Myrmotherula schisticolor)
WHITE-FRINGED ANTWREN (NORTHERN) (Formicivora grisea hondae) – Supposedly the individuals seen on the first half of the trip.
WHITE-FRINGED ANTWREN (NORTHERN) (Formicivora grisea intermedia) – At Ocana and north were this taxon.
KLAGES'S ANTBIRD (Drymophila klagesi) – Seen well in Ocana; now split from the next species (though they both sound very similar to my ear).
SANTA MARTA ANTBIRD (Drymophila hellmayri) – The "Long-tailed" antbird seen in the Santa Martas and previously lumped with Klage's Antbird. [E]
Black-crested Antshrike at El Paujil (Photo by guide Trevor Ellery)
JET ANTBIRD (Cercomacra nigricans)
BARE-CROWNED ANTBIRD (Gymnocichla nudiceps) [*]
WHITE-BELLIED ANTBIRD (Myrmeciza longipes)
CHESTNUT-BACKED ANTBIRD (Myrmeciza exsul) [*]
Conopophagidae (Gnateaters)
CHESTNUT-CROWNED GNATEATER (Conopophaga castaneiceps) [*]
Grallariidae (Antpittas)
SANTA MARTA ANTPITTA (Grallaria bangsi) – Most people saw this bird on a couple of different tries; though it never did just pop right out (typical of antpittas!). [E]
WHITE-BELLIED ANTPITTA (Grallaria hypoleuca) [*]
RUFOUS ANTPITTA (Grallaria rufula) – We saw this species (albeit briefly) at Chingaza.
RUFOUS ANTPITTA (Grallaria rufula spatiator) – The subspecies at Santa Marta. Seen in the headlights of our vehicle!
RUSTY-BREASTED ANTPITTA (RUSTY-BREASTED) (Grallaricula ferrugineipectus ferrugineipectus)
Rhinocryptidae (Tapaculos)
ASH-COLORED TAPACULO (Myornis senilis) – A new tapaculo for our list. Seen in the tangles above our head at Chingaza.
SANTA MARTA TAPACULO (Scytalopus sanctaemartae) – Really good looks as we walked down from San Lorenzo ridge. [E]
WHITE-CROWNED TAPACULO (Scytalopus atratus nigricans) [*]
MAGDALENA TAPACULO (Scytalopus rodriguezi) – Seen pretty well a few times (never great) while birding the Lengerke Trail. [E]
BROWN-RUMPED TAPACULO (Scytalopus latebricola) – Really (I mean really) good looks at this bird above the ecotienda. Wow. Shot right in and sat around for more than a few seconds. [E]
PALE-BELLIED TAPACULO (Scytalopus griseicollis) – Nice views just before turning around to return to Bogota. Came right in and sat up for us. This one used to be called "Matorral" tapaculo.
Formicariidae (Antthrushes)
BLACK-FACED ANTTHRUSH (Formicarius analis) [*]
Furnariidae (Ovenbirds and Woodcreepers)
PLAIN-BROWN WOODCREEPER (Dendrocincla fuliginosa)
NORTHERN BARRED-WOODCREEPER (Dendrocolaptes sanctithomae)
STRONG-BILLED WOODCREEPER (Xiphocolaptes promeropirhynchus) [*]
COCOA WOODCREEPER (Xiphorhynchus susurrans)
BLACK-STRIPED WOODCREEPER (Xiphorhynchus lachrymosus) [*]
OLIVE-BACKED WOODCREEPER (Xiphorhynchus triangularis)
STRAIGHT-BILLED WOODCREEPER (Dendroplex picus)
RED-BILLED SCYTHEBILL (Campylorhamphus trochilirostris) – A new species for our list. We saw it well as we birded down from Reinita in the coffee plantation.
BROWN-BILLED SCYTHEBILL (Campylorhamphus pusillus)
STREAK-HEADED WOODCREEPER (Lepidocolaptes souleyetii)
MONTANE WOODCREEPER (Lepidocolaptes lacrymiger sanctaemartae)
Moustached Brush-Finch (Photo by guide Trevor Ellery)
STREAKED XENOPS (Xenops rutilans)
PALE-LEGGED HORNERO (CARIBBEAN) (Furnarius leucopus longirostris)
SHARP-TAILED STREAMCREEPER (Lochmias nematura) – Another new one for the list. Seen well at a small stream crossing above Libano in the Central Cordillera.
MONTANE FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Anabacerthia striaticollis)
LINEATED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Syndactyla subalaris)
SANTA MARTA FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Clibanornis rufipectus) – Seen better than most years. It even climbed up pretty high into a tree, which was very unusual behavior. [E]
SPOTTED BARBTAIL (Premnoplex brunnescens)
PEARLED TREERUNNER (Margarornis squamiger)
WHITE-CHINNED THISTLETAIL (Asthenes fuliginosa) – Good looks on the high slope our first morning at Chingaza NP.
STREAK-CAPPED SPINETAIL (Cranioleuca hellmayri) – We actually put this bird in the scope (a small miracle) as it sat in a vine tangle and sang, and sang, and sang... [E]
YELLOW-CHINNED SPINETAIL (Certhiaxis cinnamomeus)
SILVERY-THROATED SPINETAIL (Synallaxis subpudica) – This endemic was seen on our first stop at Chingaza (after our picnic breakfast). [E]
AZARA'S SPINETAIL (Synallaxis azarae) [*]
PALE-BREASTED SPINETAIL (Synallaxis albescens)
RUSTY-HEADED SPINETAIL (Synallaxis fuscorufa) – Lots calling on the San Lorenzo Ridge, eventually we pulled one out for good looks. [E]
SLATY SPINETAIL (Synallaxis brachyura) [*]
WHITE-WHISKERED SPINETAIL (Synallaxis candei)
STRIPE-BREASTED SPINETAIL (Synallaxis cinnamomea)
Tyrannidae (Tyrant Flycatchers)
BROWN-CAPPED TYRANNULET (Ornithion brunneicapillus)
SOUTHERN BEARDLESS-TYRANNULET (Camptostoma obsoletum)
WHITE-BANDED TYRANNULET (Mecocerculus stictopterus) – The next two species were in the mixed species flock within the humid subtropical forest at Chingaza NP.
WHITE-THROATED TYRANNULET (Mecocerculus leucophrys)
MOUSE-COLORED TYRANNULET (Phaeomyias murina)
YELLOW TYRANNULET (Capsiempis flaveola)
YELLOW-CROWNED TYRANNULET (Tyrannulus elatus)
FOREST ELAENIA (Myiopagis gaimardii) – The next two species coexist in the same forest at El Hato. There are some subtle plumage differences (which we worked on), but the voice is the dead giveaway.
GREENISH ELAENIA (Myiopagis viridicata)
YELLOW-BELLIED ELAENIA (Elaenia flavogaster)
MOUNTAIN ELAENIA (Elaenia frantzii)
STREAK-NECKED FLYCATCHER (Mionectes striaticollis)
OLIVE-STRIPED FLYCATCHER (Mionectes olivaceus)
OCHRE-BELLIED FLYCATCHER (Mionectes oleagineus)
SEPIA-CAPPED FLYCATCHER (Leptopogon amaurocephalus)
This blue-faced Sickle-winged Guan gave us a fine view at El Dorado. (Photo by guide Trevor Ellery)
RUFOUS-BROWED TYRANNULET (Phylloscartes superciliaris) – A few of us actually saw the rufous brow on this active, canopy flycatcher! Cool.
SOOTY-HEADED TYRANNULET (Phyllomyias griseiceps)
BLACK-CAPPED TYRANNULET (Phyllomyias nigrocapillus)
PLUMBEOUS-CROWNED TYRANNULET (Phyllomyias plumbeiceps)
PALTRY TYRANNULET (MOUNTAIN) (Zimmerius vilissimus improbus) – This is what we were calling "Venezuelan" Tyrannulet, split by some authorities. One difference is the dark eye (vs. pale eye in Paltry Tyrannulet). It was a new taxon for Jesse. :-)
GOLDEN-FACED TYRANNULET (GOLDEN-FACED) (Zimmerius chrysops chrysops)
NORTHERN SCRUB-FLYCATCHER (Sublegatus arenarum)
SLENDER-BILLED TYRANNULET (Inezia tenuirostris) – Fairly easy in the dry forest at Los Camerones. Lots vocalizing.
PALE-TIPPED TYRANNULET (Inezia caudata) – This Inezia was the common one on our first stop in the dry forest as we arrived to the Guajira. The calls are the major difference in the Inezias.
ORNATE FLYCATCHER (Myiotriccus ornatus)
SCALE-CRESTED PYGMY-TYRANT (Lophotriccus pileatus) [*]
PALE-EYED PYGMY-TYRANT (Atalotriccus pilaris)
SOUTHERN BENTBILL (Oncostoma olivaceum)
PEARLY-VENTED TODY-TYRANT (Hemitriccus margaritaceiventer)
BLACK-THROATED TODY-TYRANT (Hemitriccus granadensis) – Following Trevor, I believe the subspecies here (N Colombia) is lehmanni, which sounds different from other Andean populations. We saw this species in the Santa Martas.
SLATE-HEADED TODY-FLYCATCHER (Poecilotriccus sylvia)
COMMON TODY-FLYCATCHER (Todirostrum cinereum)
BLACK-HEADED TODY-FLYCATCHER (Todirostrum nigriceps)
OLIVACEOUS FLATBILL (Rhynchocyclus olivaceus)
YELLOW-OLIVE FLYCATCHER (Tolmomyias sulphurescens) – We swept the Tolmomyias for the tour. The first two species are very, very similar in plumage, but sort out by call. They were coexisting together around El Hato and Maraquita.
YELLOW-MARGINED FLYCATCHER (Tolmomyias assimilis)
YELLOW-BREASTED FLYCATCHER (Tolmomyias flaviventris)
CINNAMON FLYCATCHER (Pyrrhomyias cinnamomeus)
CINNAMON FLYCATCHER (Pyrrhomyias cinnamomeus assimilis) – Lots of talk of splitting this taxon, so worth noting it. This is the one from the Santa Martas.
BLACK-BILLED FLYCATCHER (Aphanotriccus audax) – Finally caught up with this species along the river trail at Paujil. Very limited range, nearly endemic to Colombia.
OLIVE-SIDED FLYCATCHER (Contopus cooperi)
EASTERN WOOD-PEWEE (Contopus virens) [*]
TROPICAL PEWEE (Contopus cinereus)
ACADIAN FLYCATCHER (Empidonax virescens)
WILLOW FLYCATCHER (Empidonax traillii) – I was sort of proud of this one. Hearing it first, then finding it, playing it in, and recording its song. Pretty cool. A rare winter visitor to Colombia. Seen walking down through the coffee plantation below Reinita.
BLACK PHOEBE (Sayornis nigricans)
VERMILION FLYCATCHER (Pyrocephalus rubinus)
It's hard to imagine not being able to spot a Rosy Thrush-Tanager, though amazingly they can disappear easily into the foliage. (Photo by guide Trevor Ellery)
PIED WATER-TYRANT (Fluvicola pica)
WHITE-HEADED MARSH TYRANT (Arundinicola leucocephala)
RUFOUS-BREASTED CHAT-TYRANT (Ochthoeca rufipectoralis)
BROWN-BACKED CHAT-TYRANT (Ochthoeca fumicolor)
CATTLE TYRANT (Machetornis rixosa)
BRIGHT-RUMPED ATTILA (Attila spadiceus)
DUSKY-CAPPED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus tuberculifer)
PANAMA FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus panamensis)
APICAL FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus apicalis) – Spotted before the guides actually could work on it; nice job group. As Myiarchus go, this one is actually pretty well marked (at least the pale tail tips are distinctive). [E]
GREAT CRESTED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus crinitus)
BROWN-CRESTED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus tyrannulus)
GREAT KISKADEE (Pitangus sulphuratus)
BOAT-BILLED FLYCATCHER (Megarynchus pitangua)
RUSTY-MARGINED FLYCATCHER (Myiozetetes cayanensis)
SOCIAL FLYCATCHER (Myiozetetes similis)
GOLDEN-CROWNED FLYCATCHER (Myiodynastes chrysocephalus)
STREAKED FLYCATCHER (Myiodynastes maculatus)
PIRATIC FLYCATCHER (Legatus leucophaius)
TROPICAL KINGBIRD (Tyrannus melancholicus)
GRAY KINGBIRD (Tyrannus dominicensis)
FORK-TAILED FLYCATCHER (Tyrannus savana)
Cotingidae (Cotingas)
GOLDEN-BREASTED FRUITEATER (Pipreola aureopectus) – Eventually had a male fly into our group and perch above our heads.
RED-CRESTED COTINGA (Ampelion rubrocristatus)
PURPLE-THROATED FRUITCROW (Querula purpurata)
Pipridae (Manakins)
LANCE-TAILED MANAKIN (Chiroxiphia lanceolata)
GOLDEN-WINGED MANAKIN (Masius chrysopterus) – A splendid male was seen on the higher part of the Lengerke Trail. It didn't stick around long, however,
WHITE-BEARDED MANAKIN (Manacus manacus)
STRIPED MANAKIN (WESTERN) (Machaeropterus regulus striolatus)
Tityridae (Tityras and Allies)
BLACK-CROWNED TITYRA (Tityra inquisitor)
MASKED TITYRA (Tityra semifasciata)
BROWN-WINGED SCHIFFORNIS (Schiffornis turdina) [*]
CINEREOUS BECARD (Pachyramphus rufus)
CINNAMON BECARD (Pachyramphus cinnamomeus)
WHITE-WINGED BECARD (Pachyramphus polychopterus)
ONE-COLORED BECARD (Pachyramphus homochrous)
Vireonidae (Vireos, Shrike-Babblers, and Erpornis)
BROWN-CAPPED VIREO (Vireo leucophrys)
RED-EYED VIREO (Vireo olivaceus)
RUFOUS-NAPED GREENLET (Hylophilus semibrunneus)
SCRUB GREENLET (Hylophilus flavipes)
GOLDEN-FRONTED GREENLET (Hylophilus aurantiifrons) – A new species seen after Jesse had departed. Alright!
LESSER GREENLET (Hylophilus decurtatus)
YELLOW-BROWED SHRIKE-VIREO (Vireolanius eximius) – Wow! One of our targets as we birded the coffee below Reinita. Bird came in very close and we had excellent looks.
RUFOUS-BROWED PEPPERSHRIKE (Cyclarhis gujanensis)
Corvidae (Crows, Jays, and Magpies)
BLACK-CHESTED JAY (Cyanocorax affinis)
GREEN JAY (Cyanocorax yncas)
Hirundinidae (Swallows)
BLUE-AND-WHITE SWALLOW (Pygochelidon cyanoleuca)
Spot-breasted Woodpecker along the Caribbean coast (Photo by guide Trevor Ellery)
SOUTHERN ROUGH-WINGED SWALLOW (Stelgidopteryx ruficollis)
GRAY-BREASTED MARTIN (Progne chalybea)
WHITE-WINGED SWALLOW (Tachycineta albiventer) – Just one on the drive out of Paujil seems odd. Good thing we stopped for it!
BANK SWALLOW (Riparia riparia)
Troglodytidae (Wrens)
SCALY-BREASTED WREN (Microcerculus marginatus) [*]
HOUSE WREN (SOUTHERN) (Troglodytes aedon musculus)
SEDGE WREN (POLYGLOTTUS GROUP) (Cistothorus platensis alticola) – One seen well singing in tall grasses before the main entrance to Chingaza NP. There has been a recent split in this group with up to six named species. I believe it will be/is called Grass Wren.
APOLINAR'S WREN (Cistothorus apolinari) – Fore! We nearly got impaled looking for this bird in the tall marshes of La Florida. However, we eventually had a bird approach very close. Larger and vocally quite different from the Sedge (Grass) Wren. [E]
STRIPE-BACKED WREN (Campylorhynchus nuchalis)
BICOLORED WREN (Campylorhynchus griseus)
BLACK-BELLIED WREN (Pheugopedius fasciatoventris)
WHISKERED WREN (Pheugopedius mystacalis)
RUFOUS-BREASTED WREN (Pheugopedius rutilus) – Seen after I left near Minca.
SPECKLE-BREASTED WREN (COLOMBIAN) (Pheugopedius sclateri columbianus) – A bird we often miss on tour, but found a pair at the entrance to Tabacal. There has been some suggestion that this taxon is a different species.
RUFOUS-AND-WHITE WREN (Thryophilus rufalbus)
NICEFORO'S WREN (Thryophilus nicefori) – This endemic was found just behind the lodge at Reinita. What luck since it seemed to be nesting. [E]
BUFF-BREASTED WREN (Cantorchilus leucotis)
RUFOUS WREN (Cinnycerthia unirufa)
WHITE-BREASTED WOOD-WREN (BLACK-CAPPED) (Henicorhina leucosticta albilateralis)
GRAY-BREASTED WOOD-WREN (Henicorhina leucophrys)
GRAY-BREASTED WOOD-WREN (Henicorhina leucophrys anachoreta) – The higher elevation subspecies seen near San Lorenzo Ridge, Santa Martas.
GRAY-BREASTED WOOD-WREN (Henicorhina leucophrys bangsi) – The subspecies around the lodge and below. Both taxon in the Santa Martas have been proposed as separate species.
Polioptilidae (Gnatcatchers)
LONG-BILLED GNATWREN (Ramphocaenus melanurus)
TROPICAL GNATCATCHER (WHITE-BROWED) (Polioptila plumbea anteocularis) – Seen at El Hato. Unclear to me really how this subspecies differs from the next, but there has been some talk of splitting Tropical Gnatcatcher, so listed here.
TROPICAL GNATCATCHER (TROPICAL) (Polioptila plumbea plumbiceps) – Seen in the dry forest of the Guajira, where very common.
Donacobiidae (Donacobius)
BLACK-CAPPED DONACOBIUS (Donacobius atricapilla)
Turdidae (Thrushes and Allies)
ANDEAN SOLITAIRE (Myadestes ralloides)
ORANGE-BILLED NIGHTINGALE-THRUSH (Catharus aurantiirostris)
SLATY-BACKED NIGHTINGALE-THRUSH (Catharus fuscater)
GRAY-CHEEKED THRUSH (Catharus minimus)
SWAINSON'S THRUSH (Catharus ustulatus)
Stripe-backed Wren along the Caribbean coast (Photo by guide Trevor Ellery)
PALE-BREASTED THRUSH (Turdus leucomelas)
BLACK-BILLED THRUSH (Turdus ignobilis)
CHESTNUT-BELLIED THRUSH (Turdus fulviventris) – This pretty Turdus was seen in the forest at Ocana. Mainly feeding on Cecropia fruit.
BLACK-HOODED THRUSH (Turdus olivater) – Another pretty Turdus seen in the Santa Marta forest.
GREAT THRUSH (Turdus fuscater)
Mimidae (Mockingbirds and Thrashers)
TROPICAL MOCKINGBIRD (Mimus gilvus)
Parulidae (New World Warblers)
NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH (Parkesia noveboracensis)
GOLDEN-WINGED WARBLER (Vermivora chrysoptera)
BLACK-AND-WHITE WARBLER (Mniotilta varia)
PROTHONOTARY WARBLER (Protonotaria citrea)
TENNESSEE WARBLER (Oreothlypis peregrina)
MOURNING WARBLER (Geothlypis philadelphia)
AMERICAN REDSTART (Setophaga ruticilla)
CERULEAN WARBLER (Setophaga cerulea) – A female was seen below Libano, and then later a male while birding the coffee below Reinita Cielo Azul (the Spanish name for this species).
TROPICAL PARULA (Setophaga pitiayumi)
BAY-BREASTED WARBLER (Setophaga castanea)
BLACKBURNIAN WARBLER (Setophaga fusca)
YELLOW WARBLER (Setophaga petechia)
RUFOUS-CAPPED WARBLER (CHESTNUT-CAPPED) (Basileuterus rufifrons mesochrysus)
THREE-STRIPED WARBLER (Basileuterus tristriatus)
SANTA MARTA WARBLER (Myiothlypis basilica) – One of the tougher SM endemics, but seen surprisingly well on San Lorenzo Ridge. [E]
BLACK-CRESTED WARBLER (Myiothlypis nigrocristata)
BUFF-RUMPED WARBLER (Myiothlypis fulvicauda)
GRAY-THROATED WARBLER (Myiothlypis cinereicollis) – Caught up with this warbler in the forest above Ocana.
WHITE-LORED WARBLER (Myiothlypis conspicillata) – We saw our first at an unusually high elevation (below the ridge), but it was more common below the lodge. [E]
CANADA WARBLER (Cardellina canadensis)
SLATE-THROATED REDSTART (Myioborus miniatus)
YELLOW-CROWNED REDSTART (Myioborus flavivertex) – Seen at San Lorenzo Ridge, where slightly more common than SM Warbler. [E]
GOLDEN-FRONTED REDSTART (Myioborus ornatus) – A lovely warbler that is thankfully fairly common in the subtropical forest at Chingaza. It is also quite a vocalist.
Thraupidae (Tanagers and Allies)
BLACK-CAPPED HEMISPINGUS (Hemispingus atropileus) – A nice bird to find in the mixed species flock at Chingaza. Missed some years.
SUPERCILIARIED HEMISPINGUS (Hemispingus superciliaris)
OLEAGINOUS HEMISPINGUS (Hemispingus frontalis) – Also missed some years, I was surprised to see this species in the dark understory at Chingaza. They were loosely associated with the mixed species flock.
GRAY-HEADED TANAGER (Eucometis penicillata)
WHITE-SHOULDERED TANAGER (Tachyphonus luctuosus)
WHITE-LINED TANAGER (Tachyphonus rufus)
CRIMSON-BACKED TANAGER (Ramphocelus dimidiatus)
FLAME-RUMPED TANAGER (LEMON-RUMPED) (Ramphocelus flammigerus icteronotus) – Just around the lodge at Reinita.
Lesser Nighthawk along the Caribbean coast (Photo by guide Trevor Ellery)
BLACK-CHEEKED MOUNTAIN-TANAGER (Anisognathus melanogenys) – A striking endemic that we saw well on the San Lorenzo Ridge. [E]
SCARLET-BELLIED MOUNTAIN-TANAGER (Anisognathus igniventris)
BUFF-BREASTED MOUNTAIN-TANAGER (Dubusia taeniata) [*]
BLUE-GRAY TANAGER (Thraupis episcopus)
GLAUCOUS TANAGER (Thraupis glaucocolpa) – Several in the dry forest of Guajira.
PALM TANAGER (Thraupis palmarum)
BLUE-CAPPED TANAGER (Thraupis cyanocephala)
BLACK-HEADED TANAGER (Tangara cyanoptera)
BLACK-CAPPED TANAGER (Tangara heinei)
BURNISHED-BUFF TANAGER (Tangara cayana)
SCRUB TANAGER (Tangara vitriolina)
GOLDEN-HOODED TANAGER (Tangara larvata)
BLUE-NECKED TANAGER (Tangara cyanicollis)
SPECKLED TANAGER (Tangara guttata)
BERYL-SPANGLED TANAGER (Tangara nigroviridis) – Just one along the Lengerke Trail.
METALLIC-GREEN TANAGER (Tangara labradorides)
PLAIN-COLORED TANAGER (Tangara inornata)
BAY-HEADED TANAGER (BAY-AND-BLUE) (Tangara gyrola catharinae)
BAY-HEADED TANAGER (BAY-AND-GREEN) (Tangara gyrola viridissima) – This subspecies was seen in the Santa Martas. Different from the other individuals we saw b/c of their green underparts (not blue).
GOLDEN TANAGER (Tangara arthus)
SWALLOW TANAGER (Tersina viridis)
BLACK-FACED DACNIS (YELLOW-TUFTED) (Dacnis lineata egregia)
TURQUOISE DACNIS (Dacnis hartlaubi) – 5:15 pm? Yep, right on time. Some of you didn't believe me. ;-) [E]
BLUE DACNIS (Dacnis cayana)
PURPLE HONEYCREEPER (Cyanerpes caeruleus) – Seen near Minca after I had left for Rodadero. A good one to find.
GREEN HONEYCREEPER (Chlorophanes spiza)
SCARLET-BROWED TANAGER (Heterospingus xanthopygius) – A few of you got on this bird (perched in a bare tree) at Paujil. It was in the scope just for a few seconds. Often missed on tour.
GUIRA TANAGER (Hemithraupis guira)
YELLOW-BACKED TANAGER (Hemithraupis flavicollis)
WHITE-EARED CONEBILL (Conirostrum leucogenys) – A good one to find, but I believe not seen by everyone. Paujil Reserve.
BICOLORED CONEBILL (Conirostrum bicolor)
BLUE-BACKED CONEBILL (Conirostrum sitticolor)
RUFOUS-BROWED CONEBILL (Conirostrum rufum) – A near Colombian endemic seen well at Chingaza.
GLOSSY FLOWERPIERCER (Diglossa lafresnayii)
Guide Jesse Fagan ponders why the group appears to be so unresponsive to his directions...! (Photo by guide Trevor Ellery)
WHITE-SIDED FLOWERPIERCER (Diglossa albilatera)
RUSTY FLOWERPIERCER (Diglossa sittoides)
BLUISH FLOWERPIERCER (Diglossa caerulescens) – Just one at Chingaza, but a species we often miss on tour so we were happy to see it.
MASKED FLOWERPIERCER (Diglossa cyanea)
PLUSHCAP (Catamblyrhynchus diadema) – Never common and always difficult to see well. We had a pair singing at Chingaza.
PLUMBEOUS SIERRA-FINCH (Phrygilus unicolor)
SAFFRON FINCH (Sicalis flaveola)
BLUE-BLACK GRASSQUIT (Volatinia jacarina)
RUDDY-BREASTED SEEDEATER (Sporophila minuta)
THICK-BILLED SEED-FINCH (Sporophila funerea)
LARGE-BILLED SEED-FINCH (Sporophila crassirostris)
GRAY SEEDEATER (Sporophila intermedia)
YELLOW-BELLIED SEEDEATER (Sporophila nigricollis)
PARAMO SEEDEATER (Catamenia homochroa) – A pair was singing on San Lorenzo Ridge, Santa Martas. Always a good bird.
PILEATED FINCH (Coryphospingus pileatus)
BANANAQUIT (Coereba flaveola)
DULL-COLORED GRASSQUIT (Tiaris obscurus)
BLACK-FACED GRASSQUIT (Tiaris bicolor)
ROSY THRUSH-TANAGER (Rhodinocichla rosea) – Incredible views of a singing bird as we birded down to Minca on the final day. Very unusual to see it so well.
BUFF-THROATED SALTATOR (Saltator maximus)
BLACK-WINGED SALTATOR (Saltator atripennis)
ORINOCAN SALTATOR (Saltator orenocensis) – A sharp looking saltator that we saw well in the dry forest at Los Camerones.
GRAYISH SALTATOR (Saltator coerulescens)
STREAKED SALTATOR (Saltator striatipectus)
Emberizidae (Buntings and New World Sparrows)
CHESTNUT-CAPPED BRUSH-FINCH (Arremon brunneinucha)
ORANGE-BILLED SPARROW (Arremon aurantiirostris)
GOLDEN-WINGED SPARROW (Arremon schlegeli) – Good views of a responsive pair as we descended towards Minca on the final day. One of my favorites.
BLACK-HEADED BRUSH-FINCH (Arremon atricapillus atricapillus)
SIERRA NEVADA BRUSH-FINCH (Arremon basilicus) – Nice to see it so well, but in the compost pile?! [E]
GRAY-BROWED BRUSH-FINCH (Arremon assimilis assimilis)
BLACK-STRIPED SPARROW (Arremonops conirostris)
MOUSTACHED BRUSH-FINCH (Atlapetes albofrenatus)
SANTA MARTA BRUSH-FINCH (Atlapetes melanocephalus) – Literally feeding from our hands on San Lorenzo Ridge. [E]
PALE-NAPED BRUSH-FINCH (Atlapetes pallidinucha) – Seen during our first picnic breakfast at Chingaza.
YELLOW-HEADED BRUSH-FINCH (Atlapetes flaviceps) – The rain hampered our early efforts, but we eventually found a few responsive birds at another site near Libano. [E]
SLATY BRUSH-FINCH (Atlapetes schistaceus)
Burnished-buff Tanager (Photo by guide Trevor Ellery)
COMMON CHLOROSPINGUS (Chlorospingus flavopectus)
ASHY-THROATED CHLOROSPINGUS (Chlorospingus canigularis)
Cardinalidae (Cardinals and Allies)
HEPATIC TANAGER (Piranga flava)
SUMMER TANAGER (Piranga rubra)
SOOTY ANT-TANAGER (Habia gutturalis) – Seen on our long hike around the Paujil Reserve. Loud and vocal, but always difficult to see well. We had good looks briefly in the foliage, but later in flight a few times. [E]
VERMILION CARDINAL (Cardinalis phoeniceus) – Trevor and I were surprised to find this species so vocal and easily viewed at Los Camerones. It can often be quite difficult to locate one.
ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK (Pheucticus ludovicianus)
Icteridae (Troupials and Allies)
EASTERN MEADOWLARK (Sturnella magna)
RED-BREASTED BLACKBIRD (Sturnella militaris)
GREAT-TAILED GRACKLE (Quiscalus mexicanus)
CARIB GRACKLE (Quiscalus lugubris)
YELLOW-HOODED BLACKBIRD (Chrysomus icterocephalus)
SHINY COWBIRD (Molothrus bonariensis)
GIANT COWBIRD (Molothrus oryzivorus)
YELLOW-BACKED ORIOLE (Icterus chrysater)
ORANGE-CROWNED ORIOLE (Icterus auricapillus)
YELLOW-TAILED ORIOLE (Icterus mesomelas) – A new species for the list. We saw a pair as we birding the coffee plantation below Reinita Cielo Azul.
YELLOW ORIOLE (Icterus nigrogularis)
BALTIMORE ORIOLE (Icterus galbula)
SCARLET-RUMPED CACIQUE (SUBTROPICAL) (Cacicus uropygialis uropygialis) – Some talk of splitting the South American populations. We saw this taxon in the forest at Reinita Cielo Azul.
MOUNTAIN CACIQUE (Cacicus chrysonotus) – Seen in the subtropical forest at Chingaza. Missed most years.
RUSSET-BACKED OROPENDOLA (Psarocolius angustifrons)
CRESTED OROPENDOLA (Psarocolius decumanus)
Fringillidae (Finches, Euphonias, and Allies)
TRINIDAD EUPHONIA (Euphonia trinitatis)
VELVET-FRONTED EUPHONIA (Euphonia concinna) – Fairly common in the drier lower Magdalena Valley. Seen well at El Palmar and El Hato. [E]
THICK-BILLED EUPHONIA (Euphonia laniirostris)
FULVOUS-VENTED EUPHONIA (Euphonia fulvicrissa) [*]
A Black Inca at the Caerulean Warbler Reserve (Photo by guide Trevor Ellery)
BLUE-NAPED CHLOROPHONIA (Chlorophonia cyanea) – Several visiting the feeders at El Dorado.
LESSER GOLDFINCH (Spinus psaltria)
ANDEAN SISKIN (Spinus spinescens)
YELLOW-BELLIED SISKIN (Spinus xanthogastrus)
MAMMALS
LESSER BULLDOG BAT (Noctilio albiventris) – The bats seen in the thatched roof at El Paujil Reserve.
GRAY-BELLIED NIGHT MONKEY (Aotus lemurinus) – Three in a tree cavity at Paujil were cute.
RED HOWLER MONKEY (Alouatta seniculus) – Heard in several forested locations, but Trevor spotted some distant ones at Paujil.
WHITE-FRONTED CAPUCHIN (Cebus albifrons) – Seen at El Paujil Reserve.
VARIEGATED SPIDER MONKEY (Ateles hybridus) – Seen (and photographed) at El Paujil Reserve. This is an endemic species to Colombia. [E]
RED-TAILED SQUIRREL (Sciurus granatensis) – Seen a few times during the tour.
SANTANDER DWARF SQUIRREL (Microsciurus santanderensis) – We saw several small "dwarf tree" type squirrels, but seems they are difficult to separate in the field. I believe this is still the one most likely in the region we travelled. [E]
CENTRAL AMERICAN AGOUTI (Dasyprocta punctata) – Seen in the compost pile at El Dorado.
CRAB-EATING FOX (Cerdocyon thous) – One along the bumpy road below the El Dorado lodge.
WHITE-TAILED DEER (Odocoileus virginianus) – Surprised to see this species at Chingaza. Deer are a secretive, uncommon species south of the USA.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Other critters seen included:
1) Green Iguana (Iguana iguana) = Seen around the mouth of the Magdalena River running around the roads and the local houses. Surprised to see so many, but they most not be hunted/eaten in this area.
2) Boa constrictor = One seen during our night walk at El Paujil Reserve.
Totals for the tour: 593 bird taxa and 10 mammal taxa