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Andean
Cock-of-the-Rock is not a Colombian specialty, but seeing it
like this is special--at an afternoon lek within walking
distance of town! (Photo by guide Richard Webster)
The Andes of Colombia are amazing, as we saw repeatedly as we crisscrossed the Cauca Valley going from one birding spot to another. Steep, wet, green, rugged, even with a bit of snow on top. Our journey took us from 3,000' to over 13,000' in the Central and Western Andes, through different belts of forest to above treeline.
And yes, there were some birds along the way, certainly including a good number of endemics, but also many regional specialties and seldom-seen birds, as well as a terrific assortment of Andean species. For instance, Andean Cock-of-the-Rock is hardly a Colombian specialty, but the lek we visited one afternoon, within walking distance of a town square, was as easy and as pleasant a way to view this spectacular bird as one could want.
Our trip started at RNA (Reserva Natural de las Aves) Arrierito Antioquena (the Piha reserve), ProAves' lodge and reserve at the northern end of the Central Andes. Birding was slow, but we steadily found more and more, including the flagship Chestnut-capped Piha, Red-bellied Grackle, Multicolored Tanager, and Parker's Antbird, along with some fine skulkers, including Sooty-headed Wren and Chestnut-crowned Gnateater. Between birding forays we greatly enjoyed the fine feeders, and on the way out we had a last minute save on White-mantled Barbet.
Moving to the Western Andes, we visited Jardin, where our principal quarry was the endangered Yellow-eared Parrot, of which we saw many, although few close, and none in the dream setting of feeding right next to us. Many other forest birds were along the way back, including fine Tanager Finches (always a difficult skulker), Glowing Puffleg, Powerful Woodpecker, and Tyrannine Woodcreeper. Shifting to the Pacific slope, we next visited RNA Las Tangaras, where the new lodge was a nice base for our first visit to the middle elevations of the Choco, an endemic-rich region shared with Ecuador. Birding along a remote track and good trail produced many specialties, including Black-and-gold Tanager, Black Solitaire, Choco Vireo, Indigo Flower-piercer, and Toucan Barbet, along with an undescribed tapaculo, and several fun flocks and fruiting trees. Birding downslope produced a few more new ones, along with a real rarity, a Red-tailed Hawk.
Heading south and into the Central Andes, we spent two nights at Rio Blanco, a watershed reserve for the city of Manizales. Our lodge was ringed with hummingbird feeders for constant beauty and entertainment, and allowed us to bird on foot for the next day and a half. We did wonderfully well with the antpittas, five species of which came for food (more than are typically reliable), including Brown-banded, Bicolored, and Chestnut-naped. Some of the other special birds were Rusty-faced Parrot, Golden-plumed Parakeet, Masked Saltator, Dusky Piha, Black-collared Jay, and Red-hooded Tanager, and the overall activity level was excellent. After a night down in town we headed for the paramo of P.N. Los Nevados, where the weather was 'in between' but not so bad as to prevent us from seeing some lovely mountain-tanagers and great hummingbirds, including the prize Bearded Helmetcrest and lovely Rainbow-bearded Thornbill. A great showing by Tawny Antpitta was also enjoyed (in your face and in your ear).
En route to Otun-Quimbaya Sanctuary, a small wetland produced a Ring-necked Duck and 13 Lesser Scaup, surprises this far south. Otun-Quimbaya lived up to its reputation for numbers of Cauca Guans and Red-ruffed Fruitcrows, and while Chestnut Wood-Quails remained unseen, we did find many other birds, including more Crested Ant-Tanagers. A zig across the Cauca brought us back to the Western Andes and the Choco on Cerro Montezuma, where we greatly enjoyed the hospitality of Leopoldina and her daughters in order to access the P.N. Tatama. There we connected with Munchique Wood-Wren at close range and found the lovely Gold-ringed Tanager nearby. Continued birding along the forested track was rich in birds of the montane Choco, including Uniform Treehunter, Fulvous-dotted Treerunner, Club-winged Manakin, a brief Scarlet-and-white Tanager, a second chance on Multicolored Tanager, Glistening-green Tanager, and Black-chinned Mountain-Tanager, as well as some more widespread specialties, such as two quetzals and two trogons, Olivaceous Piha, and Olive Finch. Our trip concluded with the flooded marshes near Buga, now inaccessible, but a nearby reserve provided an alternative for Apical Flycatcher, a second encounter with Grayish Piculet, Spectacled Parrotlet, Jet Antbird, and Slate-headed Tody-Flycatcher.
Our travel through Colombia was made easy by Daniel's arrangements and Olegario's steady hand behind the wheel. Local birders helped us at several stops (thanks Jose, Gustavo, Uberney, and Alveiro). Apologies to the Spanish language--we avoid some punctuation and accents that do not translate well across our various computer platforms. Taxonomy largely follows the latest updates to Clements (Cornell). Conservation status is drawn from the various publications of BirdLife International.
--Richard
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)
LITTLE TINAMOU (Crypturellus soui) [*] Anatidae (Ducks, Geese, and Waterfowl)
BLACK-BELLIED WHISTLING-DUCK (Dendrocygna autumnalis) – Small numbers at a couple of marshes in
the Cauca Valley. FULVOUS
WHISTLING-DUCK (Dendrocygna
bicolor) – A few at the same
spots.
BLUE-WINGED TEAL
(Anas discors) – Wintering birds were seen at both marshes
we checked in the Cauca Valley. [b]
CINNAMON TEAL
(Anas cyanoptera) – One with Blue-winged at Cameguadua;
probably a resident form.
RING-NECKED DUCK
(Aythya collaris) – A major surprise, one with the Lesser
Scaup on the Cameguadua marshes on 1 February. Very rare in
Colombia/this far south. [b]
LESSER SCAUP
(Aythya affinis) – Thirteen on the Cameguadua marshes were a
surprise; this winter has brought many unusual records of
waterfowl to Central and South America, attributed to
drought in the region of Texas and Mexico. [b]
RUDDY DUCK
(ANDEAN) (Oxyura jamaicensis
ferruginea) – Two were on
Laguna Negra at P.N. Los Nevados.
Cracidae (Guans, Chachalacas, and
Curassows)
COLOMBIAN CHACHALACA (Ortalis columbiana) – An endemic, as split from Variable
Chachalaca. Widespread, but not always predictable, we had
good views a couple of times at RNA Arrierito, and Judy
spotted another our last morning near Buga. [E] 
Red-bellied
Grackle is an Endangered species with a limited range in
the Central and Western Andes of Colombia. Flocks of this
forest grackle range widely through the forest, but
fortunately call loudly, giving us a chance to locate
them. (Photo by guide Richard Webster)
WATTLED GUAN
(Aburria aburri) – Heard daily at RNA Arrierito, but not a
glimpse. It is considered "Near Threatened." [*]
SICKLE-WINGED GUAN
(Chamaepetes goudotii) – Several sightings, first in the road
above Jardin for some, then repeated good views of several
feeding on cecropia fruit at Rio Blanco, and finally one our
last afternoon below Lago de Calima.
Odontophoridae (New World Quail)
CHESTNUT WOOD-QUAIL (Odontophorus hyperythrus) – Heard at five spots, but at the best
place to see them, Otun-Quimbaya, not at all responsive. It
is considered "Near Threatened." [E*]
Podicipedidae (Grebes)
LEAST GREBE (Tachybaptus dominicus) – One at Cameguadua. PIED-BILLED GREBE
(Podilymbus podiceps) – Cameguadua and Laguna de Sonso.
Phalacrocoracidae (Cormorants and Shags)
NEOTROPIC CORMORANT (Phalacrocorax brasilianus) – Along the Rio Medellin and in marshes in
the Cauca V. Anhingidae (Anhingas)
ANHINGA (Anhinga
anhinga) – Dana saw one from
the bus in the flooded marshes near Buga. Ardeidae (Herons, Egrets, and Bitterns)
FASCIATED TIGER-HERON (Tigrisoma fasciatum) – One juvenile was in a rushing creek in a
pasture (!) below RNA Las Tangaras. A declining species.
COCOI HERON
(Ardea cocoi) – A handsome collection in a flooded field
near Laguna de Sonso.
GREAT EGRET
(Ardea alba) – Common in marshy areas.
SNOWY EGRET
(Egretta thula) – Fairly common in the marshes of the Cauca
V., including several in nice breeding color at Cameguadua.
LITTLE BLUE HERON
(Egretta caerulea) – Singles in Cauca V marshes.
CATTLE EGRET
(Bubulcus ibis) – Widespread in Andean pastures, including
a large roost east of Apia.
STRIATED HERON
(Butorides striata) – One near our hotel the first morning, and
small numbers in the Cauca Valley marshes.
BLACK-CROWNED
NIGHT-HERON (Nycticorax
nycticorax) – A few at Laguna
de Sonso, where one was working on a substantial fish.
Threskiornithidae (Ibises and Spoonbills)
GLOSSY IBIS (Plegadis falcinellus) – A few fly-bys at Laguna de Sonso.
BARE-FACED IBIS
(Phimosus infuscatus) – Some from the bus in pastures along the
Rio Medellin, and then small flocks in the marshes of the
upper Cauca Valley, where we had good looks. a.k.a.
Whispering Ibis.
BUFF-NECKED IBIS
(Theristicus caudatus) [*]
Cathartidae (New World Vultures)
BLACK VULTURE (Coragyps atratus) TURKEY VULTURE
(Cathartes aura)
Pandionidae (Osprey)
OSPREY (Pandion
haliaetus) – Several were
hunting in the flooded expanses of the Laguna de Sonso area.
[b] Accipitridae (Hawks, Eagles, and Kites)
SWALLOW-TAILED KITE (Elanoides forficatus) – This spectacular bird was seen several
times, first over the lodge at RNA Arrierito, then below Las
Tangaras, and on both visits to Cerro Montezuma. 
Chestnut-naped
Antpitta is not a regular customer for worms at Rio
Blanco, but we were lucky to have two come in (which then
fought in the bushes over the territory). (Photo by guide
Richard Webster)
SNAIL KITE
(Rostrhamus sociabilis) – Nice views of several at Laguna de Sonso.
SHARP-SHINNED HAWK
(PLAIN-BREASTED) (Accipiter
striatus ventralis) – A
distant, perched bird was seen high above Jardin, and
another was seen well circling overhead at Rio Blanco.
SAVANNA HAWK
(Buteogallus meridionalis) – Some folks saw on from the bus in the
pastures along the Rio Medellin.
ROADSIDE HAWK
(Buteo magnirostris) – Widespread, occurring now to high
elevations in the cleared pastures.
BROAD-WINGED HAWK
(Buteo platypterus) – At least seven in the Andes, including a
couple of very confiding adults at Rio Blanco. [b]
SHORT-TAILED HAWK
(Buteo brachyurus) – Gustavo pointed out a light adult soaring
over the town of Jardin.
RED-TAILED HAWK
(Buteo jamaicensis) – A mega-surprise, one of just a few
Colombian records. David noted the color in the tail, and it
came high over, when Bob was able to get a quick photo. As
it turned out, others had seen it a month before!
BLACK HAWK-EAGLE
(Spizaetus tyrannus) – A pair was clearly established around RNA
Arrierito, as we saw them two days running, perched and in
low, close flight.
Falconidae (Falcons and Caracaras)
CRESTED CARACARA (Caracara cheriway) – Scattered small numbers, mostly while en
route. YELLOW-HEADED
CARACARA (Milvago chimachima
chimachima) – Ditto,
including one David pointed out in Cd. Bolivar that was on a
cow's back.
AMERICAN KESTREL
(Falco sparverius) – Seen above Jardin.
Rallidae (Rails, Gallinules, and Coots)
WHITE-THROATED CRAKE (Laterallus albigularis) – This "marsh crake" was seen well when
David spotted two responsive birds along a small creek near
the Piha reserve. GRAY-NECKED
WOOD-RAIL (Aramides cajanea)
[*]
RUSSET-CROWNED
CRAKE (Anurolimnas viridis)
– This "grass crake" was heard in the
same area as the White-throated, but was typically invisible
in the dense grass. [*]
BLACKISH RAIL
(Pardirallus nigricans) – We had very nice views our first morning
above Medellin, with the particular surprise of having a
responsive bird perch in a bush to inspect us!
COMMON GALLINULE
(Gallinula galeata) – Fairly common in the couple marshes we
visited on the valley floor. Note the recent split from G.
chloropus, Common Moorhen.
AMERICAN COOT
(Fulica americana) – A dozen at the Cameguadua marshes. About
the southern end of its range.
Aramidae (Limpkin)
LIMPKIN (Aramus
guarauna) – Several were seen
in the flooded areas around Laguna de Sonso. Charadriidae (Plovers and Lapwings)
SOUTHERN LAPWING (Vanellus chilensis) – Common in pastures throughout, a noisy
bird often heard from our rooms at night. Jacanidae (Jacanas)
WATTLED JACANA (Jacana jacana) – A few at both marshes we visited.
Scolopacidae (Sandpipers and Allies)
Gray-browed
Brush-Finch has learned that the antpitta feeding area at
Rio Blanco is a good foraging ground for it, too;
Gray-browed is a recent split of the "Stripe-headed"
group. (Photo by guide Richard Webster)
SOLITARY SANDPIPER
(Tringa solitaria) – Common at the Cameguadua marshes.
[b]
GREATER YELLOWLEGS
(Tringa melanoleuca) – Two at the Cameguadua marshes. [b]
LESSER YELLOWLEGS
(Tringa flavipes) – Along with one of these. [b]
Columbidae (Pigeons and Doves)
ROCK PIGEON (Columba livia) [I] PALE-VENTED PIGEON
(Patagioenas cayennensis) – Several in open areas of the Cauca
Valley.
BAND-TAILED PIGEON
(WHITE-NECKED) (Patagioenas
fasciata albilinea) – Common
and widespread in forested areas. One flock in the road at
Rio Blanco gave a surge of hope for something like
wood-quail; they appeared to be getting grit.
PLUMBEOUS PIGEON
(Patagioenas plumbea chapmani) – Dana got us on a perched bird at RNA Las
Tangaras.
RUDDY PIGEON
(Patagioenas subvinacea) – Heard several times, and Dana saw one at
RNA Arrierito.
DUSKY PIGEON
(Patagioenas goodsoni) – Dana and Daniel saw one on Cerro
Montezuma.
EARED DOVE
(Zenaida auriculata) – Widespread in open areas.
RUDDY GROUND-DOVE
(Columbina talpacoti) – Not often seen, despite many miles of
driving in open country, but we did see a few, particularly
around Buga.
WHITE-TIPPED DOVE
(Leptotila verreauxi) – Heard a few times, and seen briefly near
Buga.
WHITE-THROATED
QUAIL-DOVE (Geotrygon frenata)
– Heard at close range at RNA Las
Tangaras, where we had two naked-eyed glimpses of this
species; also heard on Cerro Montezuma.
Psittacidae (Parrots)
GOLDEN-PLUMED PARAKEET (Leptosittaca branickii) – A bit of a surprise (a write-in), but the
Central Andes harbor an important population of this
parakeet, which is considered "Vulnerable," with a
population under 10,000. Flocks are highly mobile in pursuit
of food, and we hit it just right, with flocks twice at Rio
Blanco, the first time with Justyn's help, and then a
wonderful flock right overhead at Otun-Quimbaya. SCARLET-FRONTED
PARAKEET (Aratinga wagleri
wagleri) – Seen well by part
of the group at Otun-Quimbaya, with a further fly-over at
Cerro Montezuma.
YELLOW-EARED
PARROT (Ognorhynchus
icterotis) – We saw an
impressive fifty birds, about 5% of the world population of
this "Endangered" species. Unfortunately, while they were
all around us, they were never on top of us, and our views
were only "fair", and we were further frustrated by dense
fog obscuring some close, perched birds. Still, after last
year's distant views because of a landslide, an improvement!
Apparently extirpated from Ecuador, this could be considered
a "modern endemic" of Colombia.
SPECTACLED
PARROTLET (Forpus
conspicillatus) – Heard or
glimpsed a few times, then good views at a couple of spots
near Buga. Only a limited range outside of Colombia.
BLUE-FRONTED
PARROTLET (Touit
dilectissimus) – Heard
several times in flight through the forest at RNA Arrierito.
[*]
RUSTY-FACED PARROT
(Hapalopsittaca amazonina) – Thanks to Alveiro's keen ear, we had good
views of a perched pair at Rio Blanco. This species is
considered "Vulnerable," with a population under 10,000. It
scarce outside of Colombia, and local within Colombia, so
always a bit of a prize (though Rio Blanco is a good spot).
BLUE-HEADED PARROT
(Pionus menstruus) – A few in the Buga area.
BRONZE-WINGED
PARROT (Pionus chalcopterus)
– Tougher than normal, with a just a
few in flight at Rio Blanco and Otun-Quimbaya.
SCALY-NAPED PARROT
(Amazona mercenaria) – A couple of fly-by encounters above
Jardin and at Rio Blanco.
Cuculidae (Cuckoos)
SQUIRREL CUCKOO (Piaya cayana) – A few in the mid-elevation forests of the
Andes. SMOOTH-BILLED ANI
(Crotophaga ani) – Widespread in pastures.
Strigidae (Owls)
TROPICAL SCREECH-OWL (Megascops choliba) [*] WHITE-THROATED
SCREECH-OWL (Megascops
albogularis) – A very nice
'win' on a Rio Blanco owling session, with a pair performing
a marvelous chorus and coming into view as well.
ANDEAN PYGMY-OWL
(Glaucidium jardinii) – Heard above Jardin, but despite some
effort there and elsewhere, no sightings. [*]
The stunning
Violet-tailed Sylph is the Choco representative of the
Sylph group. Feeders provide terrific views of this beauty
both in Colombia and Ecuador. (Photo by guide Richard
Webster)
Caprimulgidae (Nightjars and Allies)
COMMON NIGHTHAWK (Chordeiles minor) – Rita spotted a couple of roosting birds
near Chinchina; good looks at this winterer. [b] COMMON PAURAQUE
(Nyctidromus albicollis) [*]
Apodidae (Swifts)
CHESTNUT-COLLARED SWIFT (Streptoprocne rutila) – Small flocks at several spots, ID mostly
on size, shape (none of those below eye level in the sun
looks!). WHITE-COLLARED
SWIFT (Streptoprocne zonaris)
– Fairly common; regularly seen
throughout the route.
LESSER
SWALLOW-TAILED SWIFT (Panyptila
cayennensis) – Nice looks at
one around our hotel above Jardin.
Trochilidae (Hummingbirds)
WHITE-NECKED JACOBIN (Florisuga mellivora) – One or two females were regular at the
RNA Arrierito feeders; another was below Las Tangaras.
WHITE-TIPPED
SICKLEBILL (Eutoxeres aquila)
– With time, a couple of good sightings
of birds visiting flowers in the forest understory at RNA
Arrierito.
GREEN HERMIT
(Phaethornis guy) – A few inside the forest at RNA Arrierito.
TAWNY-BELLIED
HERMIT (Phaethornis
syrmatophorus) – Seen at RNA
Las Tangaras, with excellent views of one visiting the
feeders.
GREEN-FRONTED
LANCEBILL (Doryfera ludovicae)
– Good views several times,
particularly of birds foraging or perching around streams
and waterfalls at RNA Arrierito (where one was nesting under
a cliff overhang on 24 Jan) and on Cerro Montezuma. [N]
WEDGE-BILLED
HUMMINGBIRD (Schistes
geoffroyi) – Quick, close
views of one visiting flowers at Rio Blanco.
GREEN VIOLETEAR
(Colibri thalassinus) – A couple above Jardin, and a few in the
yard at Rio Blanco.
BLACK-THROATED
MANGO (Anthracothorax
nigricollis) – Several were
visiting the feeders at RNA Arrierito, with a couple more in
open areas of the Cauca Valley.
TOURMALINE
SUNANGEL (Heliangelus exortis)
– Common high above Jardin and in the
garden at Rio Blanco.
SPECKLED
HUMMINGBIRD (Adelomyia
melanogenys) – A few above
Jardin, with repeated good looks in the garden at Rio
Blanco.
LONG-TAILED SYLPH
(Aglaiocercus kingi) – A few were regulars at Rio Blanco, where
we had repeated good views.
VIOLET-TAILED
SYLPH (Aglaiocercus coelestis)
– This Choco species was fairly common
at RNA Las Tangaras (where seen especially well at the
feeders) and on Cerro Montezuma, where earning honest
livings.
RAINBOW-BEARDED
THORNBILL (Chalcostigma
herrani) – An uncommon and
local species, it was great to encounter several in treeline
forest below PN Los Nevados. A few quick, spectacular views
of the beard.
BEARDED
HELMETCREST (Oxypogon
guerinii) – On the subject of
spectacular beards, not to mention a spiked crest, we did
well on this visit to PN Los Nevados, with multiple
individuals chasing around the paramo flowers, eventually
providing many good views (and photographs) of this
specialty. O. g. stubelii.
VIRIDIAN METALTAIL
(Metallura williami) – Several were in treeline forest below PN
Los Nevados.
GREENISH PUFFLEG
(Haplophaedia aureliae) – Generally uncommon/seldom observed in
Ecuador and Peru, but locally fairly common in Colombia,
where seen well in the forest at RNA Arrierito, Cerro
Montezuma, and even at the feeders at RNA Las Tangaras.
GLOWING PUFFLEG
(Eriocnemis vestita paramillo) – A pleasant surprise was the array of
feeders at the ProAves station above Jardin, where at least
one of this taxon (which seems intermediate toward Gorgeted
Puffleg) was coming to drink, providing good views and a few
photos.
GOLDEN-BREASTED
PUFFLEG (Eriocnemis mosquera)
– Uncommon and not seen on every visit,
we had one in the telescope in treeline scrub below PN Los
Nevados.
BROWN INCA
(Coeligena wilsoni) – Endemic to the Choco, this distinctive
Inca was seen well on Cerro Montezuma and at the RNA Las
Tangaras feeders.
Munchique
Wood-Wren is a recently-described species from Colombia's
Andes, and a skulking and local one with which we were
lucky in 2012 on Cerro Montezuma in Parque Nacional
Tatamá. (Photo by guide Richard Webster)
MOUNTAIN
VELVETBREAST (Lafresnaya
lafresnayi) – Several were
above Jardin, including at the feeders at the pass.
BUFF-TAILED
CORONET (Boissonneaua
flavescens) – One above
Jardin, and then obnoxiously abundant (but still wonderful)
at the Rio Blanco feeders.
VELVET-PURPLE
CORONET (Boissonneaua jardini)
– This Choco spectacular was seen at
the RNA Las Tangaras feeders and one more time at Cerro
Montezuma.
BOOTED RACKET-TAIL
(Ocreatus underwoodii) – A favorite of Judy, we saw a couple of
females at RNA Las Tangaras and then a male at
Otun-Quimbaya.
WHITE-TAILED
HILLSTAR (Urochroa bougueri)
– An uncommon species overall, we saw
the Choco form, nominate bougeri with its brownish back and
rufous malar, first at the RNA Las Tangaras feeders, then at
Cerro Montezuma, where one fed at a feeder on a table top!
PURPLE-BIBBED
WHITETIP (Urosticte benjamini)
– One female was coming occasionally to
the feeders at RNA Las Tangaras.
FAWN-BREASTED
BRILLIANT (Heliodoxa
rubinoides) – A couple were
visiting the feeders at Rio Blanco.
GREEN-CROWNED
BRILLIANT (Heliodoxa jacula)
– Common at the RNA Arrierito feeders,
where we saw a great variety of plumages, including young
males.
EMPRESS BRILLIANT
(Heliodoxa imperatrix) – This Choco specialty, not easily seen (or
at least enjoyed) in the wild, was seen at the RNA Las
Tangaras feeders and on Cerro Montezuma.
WHITE-BELLIED
WOODSTAR (Chaetocercus
mulsant) – Great looks at
males and females at the feeders at Rio Blanco, where they
ran the gauntlet of Buff-tailed Coronets quite successfully.
PURPLE-THROATED
WOODSTAR (Calliphlox
mitchellii) – At least two
males were regular visitors to the feeders (and citrus
flowers) at RNA Arrierito, and a female came to the Las
Tangaras feeders.
WESTERN EMERALD
(Chlorostilbon melanorhynchus
melanorhynchus) – We had
three sightings at RNA Arrierito, mostly quick, in open
areas along the road (not a feeder bird).
GREEN-CROWNED
WOODNYMPH (Thalurania fannyi)
– A spectacular bird, and common at the
RNA Arrierito feeders, with a few more below Las Tangaras.
As split from Violet-crowned and Fork-tailed Woodnymphs.
ANDEAN EMERALD
(Amazilia franciae) – No spectacular gorget, but still a
stunning bird, seen best at the RNA Arrierito feeders.
STEELY-VENTED
HUMMINGBIRD (Amazilia
saucerrottei) – One of the
most common and widespread hummingbirds of the trip,
generally looking dull, but in good light it looks like it
is wearing a coat of brilliant green mail.
RUFOUS-TAILED
HUMMINGBIRD (Amazilia tzacatl)
– Also common and widespread in
disturbed areas of the lower slopes.
BLUE-HEADED
SAPPHIRE (Hylocharis grayi)
– A surprise, and a bit of a puzzle (a
female), but our tentative diagnosis of this species was
correct our last afternoon near Lago de Calima.
Trogonidae (Trogons)
GOLDEN-HEADED QUETZAL (Pharomachrus auriceps) – Heard at the Piha reserve, then seen at
Rio Blanco (nice views) and (less nice) at Cerro Montezuma.
CRESTED QUETZAL
(Pharomachrus antisianus) – Good views of a pair on Cerro Montezuma.
Red-ruffed
Fruitcrow is widespread in South America, but local and
found on few tour routes. Otun-Quimbaya sanctuary in the
Central Andes is dynamite for them. This one was "hunting"
the wily fallen fruit right outside of our rooms. (Photo
by guide Richard Webster)
MASKED TROGON
(Trogon personatus assimilis) – Seen in the montane Choco at RNA Las
Tangaras and on Cerro Montezuma.
MASKED TROGON
(Trogon personatus temperatus) – Several very obliging individuals were
seen at close range at Rio Blanco. Some future splits in
Masked Trogon seem likely.
Momotidae (Motmots)
ANDEAN MOTMOT (Momotus aequatorialis) – Seen at our hotel our first morning,
where Judy spotted one above a yard, and there was one on a
utility wire as we loaded the bus! Great views of this split
from Blue-crowned Motmot at several more sites. a.k.a.
Highland Motmot. BROAD-BILLED
MOTMOT (Electron
platyrhynchum) – Disenia
spotted one of this lowland species along the track on Cerro
Montezuma.
Alcedinidae (Kingfishers)
RINGED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle torquata) – Several were at Laguna de Sonso. AMAZON KINGFISHER
(Chloroceryle amazona) – One in flight at Cameguadua.
GREEN KINGFISHER
(Chloroceryle americana) – Bob spotted one at Cameguadua, which
stayed perched for telescope views, and another was seen at
Laguna de Sonso.
Bucconidae (Puffbirds)
MOUSTACHED PUFFBIRD (Malacoptila mystacalis) – Good views of a responsive bird at RNA
Arrierito. Capitonidae (New World Barbets)
WHITE-MANTLED BARBET (Capito hypoleucus) – Easier on our other Colombia tour, but we
got lucky, with Jose's help, at the last moment, and had
good looks at one below RNA Arrierito. It is considered
"Near Threatened." Nominate. [E]
RED-HEADED BARBET
(Eubucco bourcierii) – Heard often, and seen periodically, at
several mid-elevation sites.
Semnornithidae (Toucan-Barbets)
TOUCAN BARBET (Semnornis ramphastinus) – Increasingly treated as a monotypic
family, this distinctive bird was seen well in the montane
Choco, to which it is endemic, at RNA Las Tangaras and Cerro
Montezuma. Ramphastidae (Toucans)
EMERALD TOUCANET (Aulacorhynchus prasinus) – We saw birds of this taxon several times,
best when David spotted one at Rio Blanco (griseigularis),
also in the Western Andes (some trend toward phaeolaemus).
Some lists split this species ("Gray-throated"). CRIMSON-RUMPED
TOUCANET (Aulacorhynchus
haematopygus) – Heard at the
Piha reserve, eventually seen at RNA Las Tangaras and on
Cerro Montezuma.
BLACK-BILLED
MOUNTAIN-TOUCAN (Andigena
nigrirostris) – Thanks to
some fine spotting by Gustavo, we saw two birds above
Jardin, foraging in fruiting trees on the opposite slope.
Picidae (Woodpeckers)
GRAYISH PICULET (Picumnus granadensis) – A responsive bird in a park in Manizales
was our first view of this endemic, and we saw another our
last morning near Buga. [E]
RED-CROWNED
WOODPECKER (Melanerpes
rubricapillus) – An abundant
bird at lower elevations in Colombia, but such was our
concentration on montane forests that we saw just a few.
YELLOW-VENTED
WOODPECKER (Veniliornis
dignus) – An uncommon
woodpecker of middle elevations that seems a little more
common in Colombia than farther south; we saw singles at Rio
Blanco and on Cerro Montezuma.
GOLDEN-OLIVE
WOODPECKER (Colaptes
rubiginosus) – Widespread,
heard or seen at most of our mid-elevation forests. Formerly
placed in Piculus.
CRIMSON-MANTLED
WOODPECKER (Colaptes rivolii)
– This stunning woodpecker was first
enjoyed above Jardin, then again at Rio Blanco.
POWERFUL
WOODPECKER (Campephilus
pollens) – A special bird for
Bob, who has a history with the large woodpeckers of this
genus. Our first views were above Jardin, close but with
intermittent fog, then again with a trio at Rio Blanco. A
very good showing from an uncommon species.
Furnariidae (Ovenbirds and Woodcreepers)
STOUT-BILLED CINCLODES (Cinclodes excelsior) – We had very good views on the paramo at
our lunch stop below PN Los Nevados. ANDEAN
TIT-SPINETAIL (Leptasthenura
andicola) – Two were foraging
through the paramo shrubbery at the park entrance.
AZARA'S SPINETAIL
(Synallaxis azarae) – Heard often, and seen several times,
including well at close range at Rio Blanco.
PALE-BREASTED
SPINETAIL (Synallaxis
albescens) – A very
cooperative bird responded to playback and stayed up for
telescope views in marshy grassland near RNA Arrierito;
often a real skulker, this was a treat.-
RUFOUS SPINETAIL
(Synallaxis unirufa) – A lengthy conversation with one on Cerro
Montezuma, but it did not emerge. [*]
SLATY SPINETAIL
(Synallaxis brachyura) – A few heard in disturbed areas on the
lower slopes, with good views of this attractive bird near
Chinchina.
RED-FACED
SPINETAIL (Cranioleuca
erythrops) – Several
sightings, often with flocks in mid-elevation forest, also
working on a nest on Cerro Montezuma on 3 Feb. [N]
WHITE-CHINNED
THISTLETAIL (Asthenes
fuliginosa) – An extremely
cooperative bird circled us several times at PN Los Nevados;
this and most of the paramo species here are shared with
Ecuador.
SPOTTED BARBTAIL
(Premnoplex brunnescens) – One was seen at RNA Las Tangaras, and
others were heard.
FULVOUS-DOTTED
TREERUNNER (Margarornis
stellatus) – A Choco endemic
that is difficult to see in Ecuador, we had good views with
a couple of flocks at RNA Las Tangaras, and saw a couple
more on Cerro Montezuma.
PEARLED TREERUNNER
(Margarornis squamiger) – This lovely furnarid is widespread in the
Andes; we had good views at several spots, including above
Jardin and at Rio Blanco.
BUFFY TUFTEDCHEEK
(Pseudocolaptes lawrencii) – We saw them with a couple of flocks at
Las Tangaras, and had good views of this Choco endemic. The
taxon we saw, johnsoni, is often split from Buffy of
southern Central America, and called Pacific Tuftedcheek,
but the basis for it awaits formal publication.
SCALY-THROATED
FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Anabacerthia
variegaticeps) – We finally
found two with a mixed flock on Cerro Montezuma; we saw A.
v. temporalis of the Choco, somewhat distinct from birds of
southern Central America.
MONTANE
FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Anabacerthia
striaticollis) – Seen at
three stops, one of our better views coming at Rio Blanco,
where it was foraging in an introduced pine!
LINEATED
FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Syndactyla
subalaris) – Very brief views
for some at RNA Arrierito, with others heard there and at
Las Tangaras.
BUFF-FRONTED
FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Philydor
rufum) – A couple were with
mixed flocks at RNA Arrierito and on Cerro Montezuma.
UNIFORM TREEHUNTER
(Thripadectes ignobilis) – A Choco endemic and a skulker, we were
fortunate at Cerro Montezuma to find a very responsive pair
that allowed repeated good views.
STRIPED TREEHUNTER
(Thripadectes holostictus) – One with a mixed flock at Rio Blanco was
responsive, and good views were obtained.
STREAK-CAPPED
TREEHUNTER (Thripadectes
virgaticeps) – After one at
RNA Arrierito would not emerge, Kay saw her lifer at
Otun-Quimbaya, where a pair climbed well out of the
undergrowth.
RUDDY
FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Automolus
rubiginosus) – A very
widespread species, but not seen all that often; we were
fortunate to have a responsive bird at RNA Arrierito. A. r.
saturatus.
STREAKED XENOPS
(Xenops rutilans) – One or two with several mixed flocks.
TYRANNINE
WOODCREEPER (Dendrocincla
tyrannina) – We saw one of
this uncommon Andean woodcreeper with a mixed flock above
Jardin, and some saw another at Rio Blanco.
WEDGE-BILLED
WOODCREEPER (Glyphorynchus
spirurus) – We certainly saw
one below Las Tangaras, and this was probably the species
nesting in the support column of the little bridge at the
Piha reserve.
STRONG-BILLED
WOODCREEPER (Xiphocolaptes
promeropirhynchus) – We saw
them twice at Rio Blanco; these are the nominate subspecies,
part of the montane group of subspecies.
COCOA WOODCREEPER
(Xiphorhynchus susurrans) – We had nice looks at a responsive pair
near Buga. The current list keeps this northern/western form
separate from Buff-throated, but one should expect either a
re-lump or further splits in the complex.
OLIVE-BACKED
WOODCREEPER (Xiphorhynchus
triangularis) – A few were
seen, mostly with mixed flocks in the mid-elevation forests.
STREAK-HEADED
WOODCREEPER (Lepidocolaptes
souleyetii) – Good views of
several in the Cauca Valley around Buga.
MONTANE
WOODCREEPER (Lepidocolaptes
lacrymiger) – Regular in
upper montane forest, usually with flocks.
Thamnophilidae (Typical Antbirds)
BAR-CRESTED ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus multistriatus) – We started out with a pair during a stop
for coffee, and saw a few more below the Piha reserve. Not
an endemic because it occurs a short ways into Venezuela.
UNIFORM ANTSHRIKE
(Thamnophilus unicolor) – Seen, with more heard, at RNA Las
Tangaras.
PLAIN ANTVIREO
(Dysithamnus mentalis) – Seen and heard at RNA Arrierito.
SLATY ANTWREN
(Myrmotherula schisticolor) – Seen with mixed flocks at RNA Arrierito
and on Cerro Montezuma.
YELLOW-BREASTED
ANTWREN (Herpsilochmus
axillaris) – Seen with canopy
flocks at RNA Las Tangaras and Cerro Montezuma; that is a
small bird, way up there.
LONG-TAILED
ANTBIRD (Drymophila caudata)
[*]
RUFOUS-RUMPED
ANTWREN (Terenura callinota)
– Another canopy antwren way up there,
but we had a couple of responsive birds, even with views of
the rufous rump for many.
PARKER'S ANTBIRD
(Cercomacra parkeri) – A responsive trio (family group) at RNA
Arrierito, where more were heard. A recently-described
montane species, as separated from the lowland Dusky
Antbird. [E]
JET ANTBIRD
(Cercomacra nigricans) – We observed a responsive bird in moist
woodland near Buga.
Formicariidae (Antthrushes)
RUFOUS-BREASTED ANTTHRUSH (Formicarius rufipectus) [*] Grallariidae (Antpittas)
MOUSTACHED ANTPITTA (Grallaria alleni) – Otun-Quimbaya. It is considered
"Vulnerable." [*] PLAIN-BACKED
ANTPITTA (Grallaria haplonota)
– Cerro Montezuma. [*]
CHESTNUT-CROWNED
ANTPITTA (Grallaria
ruficapilla) – Lovely looks
at cooperative (hungry) birds at Rio Blanco.
BICOLORED ANTPITTA
(Grallaria rufocinerea) – Wow! It is fabulous that Alveiro has been
able to feed this species at Rio Blanco. We had good looks
at an antpitta that is more difficult than most to see with
tape. Occurring in northernmost Ecuador, it is not quite an
endemic, but simply a rarely seen species anywhere. It is
considered "Vulnerable."
CHESTNUT-NAPED
ANTPITTA (Grallaria nuchalis)
– We were lucky with this species, two
of which ended up in a brawl in the shrubbery behind the
antpitta feeding area at Rio Blanco. They had not been
coming in regularly, and are generally difficult to see
otherwise. Also heard above Jardin.
YELLOW-BREASTED
ANTPITTA (Grallaria
flavotincta) – Las Tangaras
and Cerro Montezuma. [*]
WHITE-BELLIED
ANTPITTA (Grallaria hypoleuca)
– Below RNA Arrierito. [*]
RUFOUS ANTPITTA
(Grallaria rufula) – Below PN Los Nevados and above Jardin.
[*]
TAWNY ANTPITTA
(Grallaria quitensis) – Great views, repeatedly, of bold birds at
PN Los Nevados, most memorably the one that appeared in the
shrub next to us and sang and sang.
BROWN-BANDED
ANTPITTA (Grallaria milleri)
– One of the regulars at the Rio Blanco
feeding station, this endemic is a prize because there
aren't many other good places to see it. Excellent views. It
is considered "Endangered." [E]
OCHRE-BREASTED
ANTPITTA (Grallaricula
flavirostris) – After missing
it at the Piha reserve, we saw this species well twice,
first at RNA Las Tangaras, then on Cerro Montezuma, both
times on perches well above the ground. G. f.
ochraceiventris.
SLATE-CROWNED
ANTPITTA (Grallaricula nana)
– The views were brief but more than
satisfactory; good luck with a bird that is not coming for
worms as reliably as a couple of the others.
Conopophagidae (Gnateaters)
CHESTNUT-CROWNED GNATEATER (Conopophaga castaneiceps) – Last year on the same dates they were
singing spontaneously at RNA Arrierito, but this year we had
to work hard to finally find one. Rhinocryptidae (Tapaculos)
OCELLATED TAPACULO (Acropternis orthonyx) – Above Jardin and at Rio Blanco. [*] ASH-COLORED
TAPACULO (Myornis senilis)
– A responsive bird was seen by part of
the group during an antpitta session in the bamboo at Rio
Blanco, and more were heard there and below PN Los Nevados.
BLACKISH TAPACULO
(Scytalopus latrans) – We had pretty good views (close, mostly
naked eye) of a bird that made repeated passes at Rio
Blanco.
WHITE-CROWNED
TAPACULO (Scytalopus atratus
confusus) – Our best tapaculo
encounter of the trip--a wonderfully responsive bird that
kept returning to a mossy log in the forest at RNA
Arrierito, even showing a small white cap. Note the
subspecies; this taxon may see further splitting. a.k.a.
Northern White-crowned Tapaculo.
CHOCO TAPACULO
(Scytalopus chocoensis) – On a steep slope in the rain at Cerro
Montezuma. [*]
STILES'S TAPACULO
(Scytalopus stilesi) – Several folks had brief views of a
species that was otherwise heard well at RNA Arrierito.
[E]
NARINO TAPACULO
(Scytalopus vicinior) – Seen well on the upper slopes of Cerro
Montezuma.
SPILLMANN'S
TAPACULO (Scytalopus
spillmanni) – Responsive
birds were seen on a couple of occasions on forested banks
above Jardin.
PARAMO TAPACULO
(Scytalopus opacus) – PN Los Nevados. Note that with the recent
split, S. canus is now restricted to the northern end of the
Western Andes (Paramillo Tapaculo), while S. opacus is still
called Paramo Tapaculo, and refers to the populations
formerly called S. canus opacus over much of Ecuador and
Colombia (the Clements list briefly flip-flopped them).
[*]
TAPACULO (NEW
SPECIES) (Scytalopus sp. nov.
1) – One was seen in the
forest understory at RNA Las Tangaras and more were heard on
Cerro Montezuma. This undescribed form, which seems vocally
close to Stiles', is known informally as 'Alto de Pisones'
(for a study site in the Western Andes) Tapaculo, and is the
subject of current study by Colombian ornithologists.
Tyrannidae (Tyrant Flycatchers)
WHITE-TAILED TYRANNULET (Mecocerculus poecilocercus) – One above Jardin and two at Rio Blanco;
with flocks. WHITE-BANDED
TYRANNULET (Mecocerculus
stictopterus) – An
unsatisfactory experience, as seen from the right side of
the bus during a construction delay! But a widespread
species!
WHITE-THROATED
TYRANNULET (Mecocerculus
leucophrys) – Two at the pass
above Jardin.
YELLOW-CROWNED
TYRANNULET (Tyrannulus elatus)
– Heard several times near Buga, and
seen in a little of its glory, high overhead. :)
GREENISH ELAENIA
(Myiopagis viridicata) – One seen and several heard in the moist
woodland reserve near Buga.
YELLOW-BELLIED
ELAENIA (Elaenia flavogaster)
– Heard regularly in disturbed areas at
lower elevations, and seen several times.
MOUNTAIN ELAENIA
(Elaenia frantzii) – Another testament to the amount of time
we spent birding in forest that we did so poorly with this
species, with a few folks seeing it near Manizales and
otherwise just hearing it a couple of times. Still, it seems
stupid not to have seen more! Sorry.
TORRENT TYRANNULET
(Serpophaga cinerea) – Seen by some folks from our lodge at RNA
Las Tangaras.
STREAK-NECKED
FLYCATCHER (Mionectes
striaticollis) – Widespread
ones and twos of this highland, fruit-eating flycatcher.
OLIVE-STRIPED
FLYCATCHER (Mionectes
olivaceus) – A couple at RNA
Las Tangaras.
OCHRE-BELLIED
FLYCATCHER (Mionectes
oleagineus) – One at a coffee
stop en route to the Piha Reserve.
SLATY-CAPPED
FLYCATCHER (Leptopogon
superciliaris) – A couple on
Cerro Montezuma.
RUFOUS-BREASTED
FLYCATCHER (Leptopogon
rufipectus) – Good views
several times, first above Jardin, then at Rio Blanco.
VARIEGATED
BRISTLE-TYRANT (Phylloscartes
poecilotis) – Found with
three mixed flocks, but hard to see well/for long as the
flocks move along; RNA Las Tangaras, Otun-Quimbaya, and
Cerro Montezuma. Seems to occur in the same flocks with
Marble-faced.
MARBLE-FACED
BRISTLE-TYRANT (Phylloscartes
ophthalmicus) – Seen well at
Las Tangaras and Otun-Quimbaya.
RUFOUS-BROWED
TYRANNULET (Phylloscartes
superciliaris) – A responsive
pair at Cerro Montezuma came much lower, but were still
overhead.
BLACK-CAPPED
TYRANNULET (Phyllomyias
nigrocapillus) – Good views
above Jardin, with further sightings at Rio Blanco.
PLUMBEOUS-CROWNED
TYRANNULET (Phyllomyias
plumbeiceps) – Heard, and
then a responsive bird was seen by part of the group with a
large flock at Otun-Quimbaya.
GOLDEN-FACED
TYRANNULET (GOLDEN-FACED) (Zimmerius
chrysops chrysops) – Common
by voice and regularly seen throughout the tour route. Some
mystery remains about the status of Choco Tyrannulet, Z.
albigularis, which at the moment is technically known only
from NW Ecuador and SW Colombia, but which vocally resembles
some birds from our tour route. Time will tell.
ORNATE FLYCATCHER
(Myiotriccus ornatus) – This lovely (and easily identified)
flycatcher was locally common along forested pathways at
three sites.
BLACK-CAPPED
PYGMY-TYRANT (Myiornis
atricapillus) – A lowland
species into which we stumbled down the road from RNA Las
Tangaras, ending up with close-range, eye level looks (and
photos) of this tiny bird that is often high overhead.
SCALE-CRESTED
PYGMY-TYRANT (Lophotriccus
pileatus) – Mostly heard, but
seen several times at RNA Arrierito and Cerro Montezuma.
RUFOUS-CROWNED
TODY-FLYCATCHER (Poecilotriccus
ruficeps) – A gem (again,
also equals identified easily), responsive twice at Rio
Blanco.
SLATE-HEADED
TODY-FLYCATCHER (Poecilotriccus
sylvia) – A lifer for
several, we worked on this bird near Buga, and ended up with
good views a couple of times. Its name is variously
Tody-Flycatcher or Tody-Tyrant, but most lists seem to be
settling on Tody-Flycatcher for this genus.
COMMON
TODY-FLYCATCHER (Todirostrum
cinereum) – Scattered
sightings throughout, with a nest near Buga on 5 February.
[N]
FULVOUS-BREASTED
FLATBILL (Rhynchocyclus
fulvipectus) – One with a
mixed flock at RNA Las Tangaras was seen by part of the
group.
YELLOW-OLIVE
FLYCATCHER (Tolmomyias
sulphurescens) – Seen well in
moist woodland near Buga; T. s. asemus.
CINNAMON
FLYCATCHER (Pyrrhomyias
cinnamomeus) – Widespread,
often easily observed (and identified).
HANDSOME
FLYCATCHER (Nephelomyias
pulcher) – Good views of
small groups on several occasions, the nominate in the W
Andes, N. p. bellus in the Central Andes. Note the new genus
(formerly in Myiophobus).
FLAVESCENT
FLYCATCHER (Myiophobus
flavicans) – One at Rio
Blanco.
BRAN-COLORED
FLYCATCHER (Myiophobus
fasciatus) – One in the
marshy spot near RNA Arrierito.
SMOKE-COLORED
PEWEE (Contopus fumigatus)
– Just a few, above Jardin and at RNA
Las Tangaras.
EASTERN WOOD-PEWEE
(Contopus virens) – One wood-pewee sp., probably this
species, was at RNA Arrierito. [b]
ACADIAN FLYCATCHER
(Empidonax virescens) – Fairly common by voice, and seen
periodically, in mid-elevation forests; near the southern
end of the winter range. [b]
BLACK PHOEBE
(Sayornis nigricans) – Widespread, usually along streams; a
resident population of the 'White-winged' group
(angustirostris).
VERMILION
FLYCATCHER (Pyrocephalus
rubinus) – At a couple of
lowland spots in the Cauca Valley.
STREAK-THROATED
BUSH-TYRANT (Myiotheretes
striaticollis) – Good views
of a pair while we waited for Yellow-eared Parrots.
SMOKY BUSH-TYRANT
(Myiotheretes fumigatus) – At the pass above Jardin.
PIED WATER-TYRANT
(Fluvicola pica) – Seen in the marshes of the Cauca Valley.
CROWNED
CHAT-TYRANT (Ochthoeca
frontalis) – One at Rio
Blanco; uncommon and not easy to find.
SLATY-BACKED
CHAT-TYRANT (Ochthoeca
cinnamomeiventris) – Quite
common, but not always easy to observe, seen first above
Jardin, then at Las Tangaras, and finally at Rio Blanco.
BROWN-BACKED
CHAT-TYRANT (Ochthoeca
fumicolor) – Through the
blowing mist of PN Los Nevados, but fortunately not totally
obscured.
CATTLE TYRANT
(Machetornis rixosa) – Seen first at our Rio Negro hotel, then
around our hotel at Jardin, in both cases an upward colonist
of cleared areas.
DUSKY-CAPPED
FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus
tuberculifer) – One below RNA
Arrierito.
APICAL FLYCATCHER
(Myiarchus apicalis) – Dana got us onto Myiarchus near Buga, and
we ended up with excellent looks at this specialty, which is
restricted to Colombia's large interandean valleys. [E]
PALE-EDGED
FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus
cephalotes) – The routine
Myiarchus of the Andes in Colombia, seen well at several
sites.
GREAT KISKADEE
(Pitangus sulphuratus) – Conspicuous at lower elevations.
RUSTY-MARGINED
FLYCATCHER (Myiozetetes
cayanensis) – Fairly common
in cleared areas up to middle elevation.
LEMON-BROWED
FLYCATCHER (Conopias
cinchoneti) – Cerro
Montezuma. [*]
GOLDEN-CROWNED
FLYCATCHER (Myiodynastes
chrysocephalus) – In small
numbers, but widespread, seen at four sites.
STREAKED
FLYCATCHER (Myiodynastes
maculatus) – One seen en
route to the Piha reserve, and a pair found building a nest
near Buga on 5 February. [N]
TROPICAL KINGBIRD
(Tyrannus melancholicus) – Seen almost daily, extending in pastures
well up into the Andes.
FORK-TAILED
FLYCATCHER (Tyrannus savana)
– On our first morning two were
scavenging moths around the billboard lights in front of our
hotel, and two more were seen around our hotel at Jardin.
Cotingidae (Cotingas)
GREEN-AND-BLACK FRUITEATER (Pipreola riefferii) – Locally fairly common, although typically
skittish, at RNA Las Tangaras, Rio Blanco, and Cerro
Montezuma. ORANGE-BREASTED
FRUITEATER (Pipreola jucunda)
– Our best views were at RNA Las
Tangaras, and some folks saw one on Cerro Montezuma.
RED-CRESTED
COTINGA (Ampelion
rubrocristatus) – One was
seen above Jardin.
ANDEAN
COCK-OF-THE-ROCK (Rupicola
peruvianus) – One of the
aesthetic highlights of the trip, about eight birds (one
female) at an easily observed lek near Jardin. Great views
of the males, but the lek was not in full swing at this
season, and there wasn't much "shopping" going on.
OLIVACEOUS PIHA
(Snowornis cryptolophus) – A generally scarce bird, Colombia seems
to be a good place to observe it. We saw several at RNA Las
Tangaras, and another on Cerro Montezuma.
RED-RUFFED
FRUITCROW (Pyroderus scutatus)
– Otun-Quimbaya came through again,
with great views of multiple birds, starting with one
'stalking' fallen fruit right outside our rooms. Fun
photography, too. Wow!
CHESTNUT-CAPPED
PIHA (Lipaugus weberi)
– The Piha is usually seen at the Piha
reserve (RNA Arrierito), but it is usually a challenge,
which was true this time. We had one somewhat responsive
bird, and then were able to get close to a calling bird for
good views (not that there is all that much to see!). Only
recently described from this portion of the Central Andes,
it is considered "Endangered, with a population under 2,500.
[E]
DUSKY PIHA
(Lipaugus fuscocinereus) – Alveiro showed us one at Rio Blanco, a
good find that made for a three-Piha trip.
Pipridae (Manakins)
GOLDEN-WINGED MANAKIN (Masius chrysopterus) – Difficult this year, we saw a couple of
females at RNA Las Tangaras after missing them at RNA
Arrierito (where displaying at the same time the year
before), and there were brief males and females on Cerro
Montezuma. CLUB-WINGED
MANAKIN (Machaeropterus
deliciosus) – After several
glimpses of birds that got away, and as time was truly
running out, we managed to get on a male that perched
quietly.
WHITE-BEARDED
MANAKIN (Manacus manacus)
[*]
WING-BARRED
PIPRITES (Piprites chloris)
[*]
Tityridae (Tityras and Allies)
BARRED BECARD (Pachyramphus versicolor) – A scattered few, generally with flocks in
upper montane forest. CINEREOUS BECARD
(Pachyramphus rufus) – A widespread bird, but uncommon and
local; quick views for part of the group near Buga.
WHITE-WINGED
BECARD (Pachyramphus
polychopterus) – Heard
regularly and seen with some mixed flocks. P. p. dorsalis is
an Andean bird in Colombia, a quite different habitat from
many lowland populations.
Vireonidae (Vireos)
CHOCO VIREO (Vireo masteri) – Whew! This recently-discovered species
was seen at RNA Las Tangaras. It stayed high overhead, but
otherwise views were fairly good of this tiny bird, and we
could further hear its distinctive song. It is considered
"Endangered." BROWN-CAPPED VIREO
(Vireo leucophrys) – One or two were with a number of montane
flocks.
RED-EYED VIREO
(Vireo olivaceus) – Singing in seasonal woodland near Buga, a
resident population of the "Chivi" group (V. o. caucae).
RUFOUS-NAPED
GREENLET (Hylophilus
semibrunneus) – Not an
endemic, but seldom seen out of Colombia, so usually a lifer
for visitors. First seen at the Piha reserve, with more at
Otun-Quimbaya and near Buga.
BLACK-BILLED
PEPPERSHRIKE (Cyclarhis
nigrirostris) – A
disappointing performance, with several birds heard well,
but only quick views in the canopy.
Corvidae (Crows, Jays, and Magpies)
BLACK-COLLARED JAY (Cyanolyca armillata) – David got us onto a small group of this
lovely jay, traveling with other 'big birds' like Mountain
Cacique at Rio Blanco. BLACK-CHESTED JAY
(Cyanocorax affinis) – A widespread lowland bird, we had one
group below RNA Arrierito.
GREEN JAY (Cyanocorax yncas) – Seen several times at RNA Arrierito and
again at Otun-Quimbaya. Andean populations are often split
(as Inca Jay) from those of Texas to Central America.
Hirundinidae (Swallows)
BLUE-AND-WHITE SWALLOW (Pygochelidon cyanoleuca) BROWN-BELLIED
SWALLOW (Orochelidon murina)
– A single bird at Rio Blanco.
SOUTHERN
ROUGH-WINGED SWALLOW (Stelgidopteryx
ruficollis)
GRAY-BREASTED
MARTIN (Progne chalybea)
– About five on high-tension wires over
the marsh part of RNA Arrierito.
BARN SWALLOW
(Hirundo rustica) – Bob had one along the way back to
Medellin and a few were over Laguna de Sonso; seemed like
fewer than normal. [b]
Troglodytidae (Wrens)
WHITE-HEADED WREN (Campylorhynchus albobrunneus) – Great looks at a family group foraging in
palms in a clearing at RNA Las Tangaras, including one that
flew toward us, veering off at the last moment. RUFOUS WREN
(Cinnycerthia unirufa) – A family group was seen in shrubbery
upslope from us above Jardin.
SHARPE'S WREN
(Cinnycerthia olivascens) – Quite common in small groups, often with
mixed flocks, at RNA Las Tangaras, with a couple more pairs
at Rio Blanco.
SOOTY-HEADED WREN
(Pheugopedius spadix) – We were just not detecting any response,
time after time, until Jose spotted one that had approached
silently, and was looking at us from close range. Great
looks and good photos.
WHISKERED WREN
(Pheugopedius mystacalis) – Another skulker, at which we had a series
of quick looks at the edge of Manizales.
BAY WREN (Cantorchilus nigricapillus) – First seen at a coffee stop en route to
RNA Arrierito, then again on the Pacific slope of the
Western Andes, especially at Cerro Montezuma.
HOUSE WREN
(SOUTHERN) (Troglodytes aedon
musculus) – Widespread in
disturbed areas.
MOUNTAIN WREN
(Troglodytes solstitialis) – One of this arboreal wren above Jardin,
and several more at Rio Blanco.
SEDGE WREN
(Cistothorus platensis) – One singing from a barbwire fence, with
more heard, at treeline below PN Los Nevados. Splits are
expected in Sedge Wren, with this bird part of the South
American "Grass Wren" group.
GRAY-BREASTED
WOOD-WREN (Henicorhina
leucophrys) – Common, at
least heard on most days, with several sightings,
particularly for David, who enjoyed recording them. We were
generally encountering the nominate form, also rustier
brunneiceps on the west slope of the Choco.
MUNCHIQUE
WOOD-WREN (Henicorhina
negreti) – After much effort,
occasional distant songs, and possible teasing glimpses of
potential somethings above Jardin, we had a wonderful
encounter with a pair on Cerro Montezuma, where we were
fortunate to be able to get high enough (road, weather
issues). A recently-described specialty that is considered
"Critically Endangered," which seems a bit much given the
inhospitable habitat and tolerance (need for) disturbed
habitats (but the population is small and the known sites
few). [E]
SCALY-BREASTED
WREN (Microcerculus
marginatus) – A.k.a. S.
Nightingale Wren. [*]
CHESTNUT-BREASTED
WREN (Cyphorhinus thoracicus)
– Heard at several locations, without a
sighting during a couple of attempts. [*]
Cinclidae (Dippers)
WHITE-CAPPED DIPPER (Cinclus leucocephalus) – Gustavo spotted a pair by the waterfall
below us near Jardin, and Judy found another by the dam at
Rio Blanco (most did not let a Dipper distract them from the
hummingbirds!). Turdidae (Thrushes and Allies)
ANDEAN SOLITAIRE (Myadestes ralloides) – Heard periodically, with sightings at RNA
Arrierito and Las Tangaras. ORANGE-BILLED
NIGHTINGALE-THRUSH (Catharus
aurantiirostris) [*]
GRAY-CHEEKED
THRUSH (Catharus minimus)
– David spotted one at RNA Arrierito
and another was on Cerro Montezuma; most do go farther south
to winter, but the species seems regular, at least at the
Piha reserve. [b]
SWAINSON'S THRUSH
(Catharus ustulatus) – Singles at Rio Blanco, Manizales, and
Otun-Quimbaya. [b]
BLACK SOLITAIRE
(Entomodestes coracinus) – This wonderful bird, endemic to the
montane Choco, often requires the luck of the right fruiting
tree, two of which we had at RNA Las Tangaras (for repeat
looks at multiple birds), but not at Cerro Montezuma, where
only Disenia glimpsed one.
PALE-EYED THRUSH
(Turdus leucops) – A singing bird at the Piha reserve was
mostly seen as a fly-by.
BLACK-BILLED
THRUSH (Turdus ignobilis)
– Nearly daily; the common thrush of
disturbed areas.
GREAT THRUSH
(Turdus fuscater) – Common at upper elevation sites.
GLOSSY-BLACK
THRUSH (Turdus serranus)
– A couple were seen at RNA Las
Tangaras.
Parulidae (New World Warblers)
NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH (Parkesia noveboracensis) – Several were seen and (mostly) heard
along the marshy channels at Cameguadua. [b] BLACK-AND-WHITE
WARBLER (Mniotilta varia)
– In small numbers, but widespread in
montane forest, often with mixed flocks. [b]
TENNESSEE WARBLER
(Oreothlypis peregrina) – A couple were regular visitors to the
lodge garden at RNA Arrierito, with a few more in secondary
downslope. [b]
OLIVE-CROWNED
YELLOWTHROAT (Geothlypis
semiflava) – Seen by part of
the group in marshy grass in the Cauca Valley (Cameguadua).
TROPICAL PARULA
(Setophaga pitiayumi) – Seen in secondary below the Piha reserve,
and in moist woodland near Buga.
BAY-BREASTED
WARBLER (Setophaga castanea)
– A couple in edge situations at the
Piha reserve. [b]
BLACKBURNIAN
WARBLER (Setophaga fusca)
– A common winterer, seen nearly daily,
often in numbers in montane forest. [b]
YELLOW WARBLER
(NORTHERN) (Setophaga petechia
aestiva) – A few in disturbed
areas of the lower slopes and valley floor. [b]
THREE-STRIPED
WARBLER (Basileuterus
tristriatus) – A regular in
mid-elevation forests, often with mixed flocks.
CITRINE WARBLER
(Myiothlypis luteoviridis quindianus)
– This subspecies was seen quickly with
a mixed flock at Rio Blanco.
CITRINE WARBLER
(Myiothlypis luteoviridis richardsoni)
– This subspecies was seen several
times with flocks in the forest above Jardin; restricted to
the Western Andes, it is at least superficially fairly
distinctive.
BUFF-RUMPED
WARBLER (Myiothlypis
fulvicauda) – Heard at
several spots, and there were quick views several times as
birds worked along rushing streams at RNA Arrierito.
GOLDEN-BELLIED
WARBLER (CHOCO) (Myiothlypis
chrysogaster chlorophrys) –
We had good views in the Choco, both at Cerro Montezuma and
RNA Las Tangaras. This population is often split based on
the very different vocalizations from the nominate form in
SE Peru ("Cuzco" Warbler of some lists), and will almost
certainly be widely split when the basis is published.
RUSSET-CROWNED
WARBLER (Myiothlypis
coronatus) – Seen above
Jardin and at Rio Blanco; one of the yellow-bellied
populations (M. c. regulus).
CANADA WARBLER
(Cardellina canadensis) – Less common than Blackburnian, but just
about as widespread, and often in the same spots. [b]
SLATE-THROATED
REDSTART (Myioborus miniatus)
– The widespread redstart or whitestart
of the lower slopes.
GOLDEN-FRONTED
REDSTART (Myioborus ornatus)
– A stunning and delightful bird, and
although not an endemic, generally a lifebird for first-time
visitors to Colombia. We saw M. o. chrysops. Closely related
to Spectacled Redstart of the Andes to the south.
Coerebidae (Bananaquit)
BANANAQUIT (Coereba
flaveola) – Seen at four
different areas, but not especially common where we were
birding. Thraupidae (Tanagers and Allies)
BLACK-FACED TANAGER (Schistochlamys melanopis) – Nice views during one short appearance at
the banana feeder at RNA Arrierito. A widespread but rather
local bird of open areas. BLACK-CAPPED
HEMISPINGUS (Hemispingus
atropileus) – Good views with
mixed flocks, first above Jardin, then at Rio Blanco.
SUPERCILIARIED
HEMISPINGUS (Hemispingus
superciliaris) – One of the
more arboreal Hemispinguses, seen with several flocks at Rio
Blanco; one of the yellow-bellied populations (H. s.
nigrifrons).
OLEAGINOUS
HEMISPINGUS (Hemispingus
frontalis) – Seen a couple of
times with flocks on the lower slopes of Rio Blanco; a
rather undramatic Hemispingus that is short on field marks,
which is actually one of the best ways to identify it.
BLACK-EARED
HEMISPINGUS (Hemispingus
melanotis) – Also with flocks
in the bamboo at Rio Blanco; the nominate form.
GRAY-HOODED BUSH
TANAGER (Cnemoscopus
rubrirostris) – Regular with
mixed flocks in upper montane forest above Jardin and at Rio
Blanco.
BLUE-BACKED
CONEBILL (Conirostrum
sitticolor) – Seen distantly
above Jardin and then much better in treeline scrub at PN
Los Nevados.
CAPPED CONEBILL
(Conirostrum albifrons) – We saw birds with blue caps above Jardin
and white caps at Rio Blanco.
PLUSHCAP (Catamblyrhynchus diadema) – They didn't stay out long, but we had
good views twice in bamboo at Rio Blanco.
BLACK-BACKED BUSH
TANAGER (Urothraupis
stolzmanni) – This monotypic
genus was seen in treeline scrub at PN Los Nevados; a local
bird of Colombia and Ecuador.
GUIRA TANAGER
(Hemithraupis guira) – One at RNA Arrierito, and better looks at
a male near Buga our last morning.
SCARLET-AND-WHITE
TANAGER (Chrysothlypis
salmoni) – Wonderful but
disappointing; for those who got on the male on Cerro
Montezuma, some lovely color, but that color melted away a
couple of times, and we could not refind it. A Choco
specialty that occurs primarily at lower elevations.
DUSKY-FACED
TANAGER (Mitrospingus
cassinii) – We saw a small
group in forest below RNA Las Tangaras. This genus is
proving an anomaly, perhaps headed to being in its own
family, based on genetic studies.
TAWNY-CRESTED
TANAGER (Tachyphonus delatrii)
– A flock was seen below RNA Las
Tangaras.
WHITE-LINED
TANAGER (Tachyphonus rufus)
– One in the disturbed outskirts of
Jardin.
CRIMSON-BACKED
TANAGER (Ramphocelus
dimidiatus) – A spectacular
bird of disturbed areas, seen most often around RNA
Arrierito, also at Cerro Montezuma and Buga.
FLAME-RUMPED
TANAGER (FLAME-RUMPED) (Ramphocelus
flammigerus flammigerus) – A
bit of a taxonomic mystery, a bird that perhaps warranted
splitting a century ago, but with more contact resulting
from clearing, there are more and more hybrids. Nonetheless,
the latest volume of Handbook of Birds of the World splits
it, as does the IOC list. We saw these at middle elevations
above Jardin and on the west slope. [E]
FLAME-RUMPED
TANAGER (LEMON-RUMPED) (Ramphocelus
flammigerus icteronotus) –
Common in disturbed areas.
BLUE-GRAY TANAGER
(Thraupis episcopus) – Common, seen nearly daily, mostly at
lower elevations in disturbed areas.
PALM TANAGER
(Thraupis palmarum) – A little less common and widespread than
Blue-gray.
BLUE-CAPPED
TANAGER (Thraupis
cyanocephala) – Small numbers
at our two upper montane forest spots, Jardin and Rio
Blanco.
BLACK-AND-GOLD
TANAGER (Bangsia
melanochlamys) – Seen
regularly on Cerro Montezuma and at RNA Las Tangaras; good
views. This endemic of the montane Choco is still known from
relatively few localities, but where it occurs, it can be
seen regularly. It is considered "Vulnerable." [E]
GOLD-RINGED
TANAGER (Bangsia aureocincta)
– We had to look a little while for
this beauty, but then had a couple of nice encounters on
Cerro Montezuma. As with Black-and-gold, an endemic of the
montane Choco that is known from few spots. It is considered
"Endangered." [E]
HOODED
MOUNTAIN-TANAGER (Buthraupis
montana) – A quick encounter
(but in the telescope) above Jardin.
LACRIMOSE
MOUNTAIN-TANAGER (Anisognathus
lacrymosus) – A couple at the
pass above Jardin.
SCARLET-BELLIED
MOUNTAIN-TANAGER (Anisognathus
igniventris) – Just one
encounter, at treeline near PN Los Nevados, but a great
encounter with close views.
BLUE-WINGED
MOUNTAIN-TANAGER (Anisognathus
somptuosus) – This beauty was
seen on a half-dozen days, including coming to Leopoldina's
new banana feeders on Cerro Montezuma.
BLACK-CHINNED
MOUNTAIN-TANAGER (Anisognathus
notabilis) – Endemic to the
montane Choco, where we had good looks at both Cerro
Montezuma and RNA Las Tangaras.
GRASS-GREEN
TANAGER (Chlorornis riefferii)
– Some excellent views of this
distinctive tanager above Jardin; seen again at Rio Blanco.
BUFF-BREASTED
MOUNTAIN-TANAGER (Dubusia
taeniata) – Excellent views
of a responsive pair in treeline forest below PN Los
Nevados.
PURPLISH-MANTLED
TANAGER (Iridosornis
porphyrocephalus) – Like its
close relative, Yellow-throated Tanager, a real beauty, and
sometimes quite responsive. Our first were at the Piha
reserve, with more above Jardin, Las Tangaras, and Cerro
Montezuma. It is considered "Near Threatened."
GLISTENING-GREEN
TANAGER (Chlorochrysa
phoenicotis) – Only the
legendary neblina of the Choco could dim the colors of this
bird, and it did several times! But at other times we had
good looks at this intensely-hued bird, an endemic of
region.
MULTICOLORED
TANAGER (Chlorochrysa
nitidissima) – With Judy and
David's spotting, we saw our first at RNA Arrierito, a bird
that sat still at length, but we would have liked to be much
closer. Then we had them twice more on Cerro Montezuma,
where, more typically, they raced around, but still offered
some exciting color. It is considered "Vulnerable." [E]
EMERALD TANAGER
(Tangara florida) – Good views of several mixed in with our
one flock down the road below RNA Las Tangaras.
GOLDEN TANAGER
(Tangara arthus) – It is hard to keep praising the beauty of
the tanagers, but they were beautiful, such as with this
widespread and fairly common bird.
SILVER-THROATED
TANAGER (Tangara
icterocephala) – First seen
at the fruit feeders at RNA Arrierito, then again on the
west slope at RNA Las Tangaras and Cerro Montezuma.
SAFFRON-CROWNED
TANAGER (Tangara
xanthocephala) – Seen above
Jardin and at Las Tangaras.
FLAME-FACED
TANAGER (Tangara parzudakii)
– One small group was seen on Cerro
Montezuma.
SPECKLED TANAGER
(Tangara guttata) – Seen at and below the Piha reserve.
RUFOUS-THROATED
TANAGER (Tangara rufigula)
– Fairly common at both Cerro Montezuma
and RNA Las Tangaras.
BAY-HEADED TANAGER
(Tangara gyrola) – A few of this lowland bird, occurring as
high as Otun-Quimbaya.
SCRUB TANAGER
(Tangara vitriolina) – Widespread in edge situations. And banana
feeder situations!
METALLIC-GREEN
TANAGER (Tangara labradorides)
– A few with tanager flocks at RNA Las
Tangaras, Rio Blanco, and Otun-Quimbaya.
BLUE-NECKED
TANAGER (Tangara cyanicollis)
– Regular in disturbed habitats at the
Piha reserve, with a couple more later in the Cauca Valley.
GOLDEN-HOODED
TANAGER (Tangara larvata)
– Seen on the lodge grounds at RNA Las
Tangaras and again down the road.
BERYL-SPANGLED
TANAGER (Tangara nigroviridis)
– Small numbers at a half dozen
localities.
BLUE-AND-BLACK
TANAGER (Tangara vassorii)
– Small numbers at four stops.
BLACK-CAPPED
TANAGER (Tangara heinei)
– Fairly common at RNA Arrierito, only
a few thereafter.
GREEN HONEYCREEPER
(Chlorophanes spiza) – One male below Las Tangaras.
PURPLE
HONEYCREEPER (Cyanerpes
caeruleus) – A pair was seen
with a flock in forest at RNA Arrierito.
SWALLOW TANAGER
(Tersina viridis) – Good views of a male below RNA Arrierito.
STREAKED SALTATOR
(Saltator striatipectus) – Seen at lower elevations in the Cauca
Valley (Cameguadua, Buga).
MASKED SALTATOR
(Saltator cinctus) – One of the prizes of the trip, a nice
encounter with this seldom-seen species. With Alveiro's
help, we connected for telescope views of a singing bird at
Rio Blanco, a good, but not guaranteed, place for it. It is
considered "Near Threatened."
BUFF-THROATED
SALTATOR (Saltator maximus)
– A few around RNA Arrierito.
BLACK-WINGED
SALTATOR (Saltator atripennis)
– Also at RNA Arrierito, with good
views in the yard.
Emberizidae (Buntings, Sparrows and
Allies)
PLUMBEOUS SIERRA-FINCH (Phrygilus unicolor) – A handful in the paramo at PN Los
Nevados. BLUE-BLACK
GRASSQUIT (Volatinia jacarina)
– A few in grassy areas.
SLATE-COLORED
SEEDEATER (Sporophila
schistacea) – Seen near
Jardin and below RNA Arrierito.
YELLOW-BELLIED
SEEDEATER (Sporophila
nigricollis) – Just a few.
RUDDY-BREASTED
SEEDEATER (Sporophila minuta)
– Also a few, in the Cauca V.
YELLOW-FACED
GRASSQUIT (Tiaris olivaceus)
– (a fairly common bird, we just did
not get around to tracking one of the singing birds down)
[*]
DULL-COLORED
GRASSQUIT (Tiaris obscurus)
– One singing bird was along the track
below RNA Arrierito.
GLOSSY
FLOWERPIERCER (Diglossa
lafresnayii) – We saw several
in treeline scrub at PN Los Nevados.
WHITE-SIDED
FLOWERPIERCER (Diglossa
albilatera) – Seen at several
spots, most often and best in the garden at Rio Blanco.
INDIGO
FLOWERPIERCER (Diglossa
indigotica) – This endemic to
the montane Choco was seen well at RNA Las Tangaras, and
again at Cerro Montezuma.
MASKED
FLOWERPIERCER (Diglossa
cyanea) – Good views above
Jardin and at Rio Blanco.
SAFFRON FINCH
(Sicalis flaveola) – An upslope colonist of pastures.
WEDGE-TAILED
GRASS-FINCH (Emberizoides
herbicola) – One singing in
the grassy marsh near RNA Arrierito was a pleasant surprise.
TANAGER FINCH
(Oreothraupis arremonops) – One of our better finds, with Gustavo's
help, above Jardin; a responsive pair of this difficult
specialty of the montane Choco. It is considered
"Vulnerable."
OLIVE FINCH
(Arremon castaneiceps) – More widespread than the preceding, but
similarly skulking; one that responded by rising above the
shrubbery to sing from an exposed perch was a great hit (and
a rare event!).
GRAY-BROWED
BRUSH-FINCH (Arremon assimilis
assimilis) – This attractive
bird was enjoyed during the antpitta feeding sessions at Rio
Blanco. As split from Stripe-headed Brush-Finch.
BLACK-STRIPED
SPARROW (Arremonops
conirostris) – One was in the
shrubbery around the yard at the RNA Arrierito lodge.
WHITE-NAPED
BRUSH-FINCH (YELLOW-THROATED) (Atlapetes
albinucha gutturalis) – This
attractive bird, near the southern end of its range, was
seen well at RNA Arrierito, and doubtless overlooked at
several other spots (those skulking brush-finches!).
TRICOLORED
BRUSH-FINCH (CHOCO) (Atlapetes
tricolor crassus) – We had
good views of responsive birds at RNA Las Tangaras. This
population is often split from the disjunct birds of Central
Peru.
SLATY BRUSH-FINCH
(Atlapetes schistaceus) – Seen first above Jardin, then more good
looks at Rio Blanco.
RUFOUS-COLLARED
SPARROW (Zonotrichia capensis)
– Lovely, and often underfoot!
COMMON
BUSH-TANAGER (Chlorospingus
ophthalmicus) – Seen with a
flock at Rio Blanco (C. o. nigriceps).
DUSKY BUSH-TANAGER
(Chlorospingus semifuscus) – Fairly common in the montane Choco of
Cerro Montezuma and RNA Las Tangaras. Genetic studies have
shown it is part of the Common Bush-Tanager group (but lumps
seem unlikely).
YELLOW-THROATED
BUSH-TANAGER (Chlorospingus
flavigularis) – Seen daily at
RNA Arrierito, with a few more at Las Tangaras.
ASHY-THROATED
BUSH-TANAGER (Chlorospingus
canigularis) – A pair was
with our one large flock at Otun-Quimbaya.
Cardinalidae (Cardinals and Allies)
HEPATIC TANAGER (Piranga flava) – A scattered few, some of our best views
coming at the RNA Las Tangaras feeders. SUMMER TANAGER
(Piranga rubra) – Fairly common in small numbers; seen or
heard on about half of the days of the tour (P. r. rubra).
[b]
RED-HOODED TANAGER
(Piranga rubriceps) – An uncommon species, and always an
aesthetic treat. Alveiro got us on a flock that stayed in
the canopy, but provided lengthy views.
CRESTED
ANT-TANAGER (Habia cristata)
– This distinctive endemic is not
always easy to find; the small flocks seems to range widely.
But we did well this year, with our first views at RNA Las
Tangaras, where Judy found them our first evening, and then
at both Otun-Quimbaya and Cerro Montezuma, for everyone
(might like to save some of that luck up for next time!).
[E]
OCHRE-BREASTED
TANAGER (Chlorothraupis
stolzmanni) – A small group
was seen at distance (not that there was much detail to
miss!) on our foray down the road at RNA Las Tangaras.
ROSE-BREASTED
GROSBEAK (Pheucticus
ludovicianus) – One near
Jardin and a couple more while we were waiting for the
landslide to be cleared near Apia. [b]
Icteridae (Troupials and Allies)
RED-BREASTED BLACKBIRD (Sturnella militaris) – One was seen in the pastures by our hotel
at Jardin. RED-BELLIED
GRACKLE (Hypopyrrhus
pyrohypogaster) – We did well
at RNA Arrierito, where we saw them three times, the first
two probably involving the same group. A distinctive
(monotypic genus), different (one of few forest "grackles"),
and lovely bird. It is considered "Endangered." [E]
SHINY COWBIRD
(Molothrus bonariensis) – A few, all in disturbed areas.
YELLOW-BACKED
ORIOLE (Icterus chrysater)
– Seen around our hotel above Jardin
and near Buga.
YELLOW ORIOLE
(Icterus nigrogularis) – A couple were seen around Buga, including
while waiting to load up in the hotel parking lot.
YELLOW-BILLED
CACIQUE (Amblycercus
holosericeus) – Fairly good
views of a responsive bird in the undergrowth at Rio Blanco;
often a skulker.
MOUNTAIN CACIQUE
(Cacicus chrysonotus) – Groups were seen above Jardin and at Rio
Blanco. C. c. leucoramphus.
RUSSET-BACKED
OROPENDOLA (Psarocolius
angustifrons) – A few
encounters, including a flock on Cerro Montezuma.
Fringillidae (Siskins, Crossbills, and
Allies)
THICK-BILLED EUPHONIA (Euphonia laniirostris) – At lower elevations above the Cauca
Valley. ORANGE-BELLIED
EUPHONIA (Euphonia
xanthogaster) – The common
and widespread euphonia of the trip.
BLUE-NAPED
CHLOROPHONIA (Chlorophonia
cyanea) – Great looks at one
below RNA Arrierito.
CHESTNUT-BREASTED
CHLOROPHONIA (Chlorophonia
pyrrhophrys) – This beauty
was seen twice (but we never found Yellow-collared!) at RNA
Las Tangaras and Cerro Montezuma.
LESSER GOLDFINCH
(Spinus psaltria) – A few in open areas near Chinchina.
YELLOW-BELLIED
SISKIN (Spinus xanthogastrus)
– Seen by David and Judy in a park near
Manizales.
MAMMALS
COMMON OPOSSUM
(Didelphis marsupialis) – One ran across the track below RNA
Arrierito for a brief, close look.
SILVERY-BROWN
BARE-FACE TAMARIN (Saguinus
leucopus) – A lucky encounter
with a cooperative troop during the barbet search below RNA
Arrierito. [E]
RED HOWLER MONKEY
(Alouatta seniculus) – Heard several times, and seen by some, at
Otun-Quimbaya.
BRAZILIAN RABBIT
(Sylvilagus brasiliensis) – For the front seat only, driving into
Otun-Quimbaya.
RED-TAILED
SQUIRREL (Sciurus granatensis)
– Seen regularly and widely.
WESTERN PYGMY
SQUIRREL (Microsciurus
mimulus) – Based on further
research, the small, dark squirrel we saw at RNA Arrierito
and Cerro Montezuma was probably this species (Sciurus
pucheranii perhaps excluded on elevation), not what we had
on the checklist.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Other critters included:
a dead Bothrops on the road at RNA Arrierito
a couple of other dead snakes
a live brown snake that departed quickly (not poisonous)
Chucho, the rehab Spectacled Bear
a green Anolis David found on Cerro Montezuma
the Bug on Bob's Arm
the bug that if it it bites you, . . . . (at Lago Calima, and you had to be there)
some fine butterflies
many lovely moths, especially at Leopoldina's, and especially that big Cecropia type
Totals for the tour: 430 bird taxa and 6 mammal taxa