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We ended our days
at ProAves' El Dorado lodge with a relaxing evening on the
deck, enjoying this lovely sunset after checking the compost
for wood-quail and brush-finches, while watching the feeders
for something new among the throng of regular beauties.
(Photo by guide Richard Webster)
Arriving in Barranquilla's airport provides no indication that one might be close to Colombia's highest peaks, and the first couple of days are certainly well removed from the visions of a lush Sierra that probably motivated your trip. But on departure from Barranquilla eight days later, your mind was certainly full of memories of mountain views and rich and varied birding.
The first couple of days, while not on the lush side of the spectrum, were fun birding. We even enjoyed lunch on the beach, an opportunity to take a photo to pretend you had a standard Caribbean vacation! We started birding with one of our best pieces of luck, Chestnut-winged Chachalacas on the outskirts of Barranquilla, and continued onto Isla Salamanca and the national park of the same name. A quick slice of land and water birds included Snail Kite, Limpkin, Russet-throated Puffbird, Pale-legged Hornero, and Bronzed (Bronze-brown) Cowbird, after which we moved quickly to the mangroves of Los Cocos. Here we saw our first Chestnut Piculets and were most fortunate to see several Sapphire-bellied Hummingbirds, a poorly known and Critically Endangered species.
By the afternoon we had moved far east to Riohacha and the arid lowlands that mark the beginning of the Guajira Peninsula. Birding the dry woodlands and rainwater ponds around Camarones that evening and the next morning provided views of most of the regional specialties, particularly including Vermilion Cardinal, the beautiful White-whiskered Spinetail, glowing Red-billed Emeralds, dingy Buffy Hummingbirds, Bare-eyed Pigeon, Slender-billed Tyrannulet, and Glaucous Tanager. The special bonus was a pair of Tocuyo Sparrows at close range, while the disappointment was limited looks at Orinocan Saltator. The lagoon was regrettably flamingo free, but had a variety of waterbirds, including a few Scarlet Ibis.
Moving to the foothills of the Sierra, we stayed in the small community of Minca, where the hotel's feeders were jammed with hummingbirds. Birding around the edges of town was very productive, highlights including a surprise Collared Forest-Falcon, Scaled Piculet, Black-backed Antshrike, and the lovely Golden-winged Sparrow, among many widespread lowland species such as Keel-billed Toucan.
En route to our home for four nights, ProAves' El Dorado Lodge and Reserve, we found our first endemics in one of the first wet ravines, Santa Marta Foliage-gleaner and Santa Marta Tapaculo, followed by White-lored Warbler and Blossomcrown around a garden at middle elevation. Our first evening at El Dorado was highly memorable, with Santa Marta Antpitta on schedule for worms, two endemic brush-finches in the feeding tray, and White-tailed Starfrontlet at the feeders. Continued evening birding around the lodge grounds the next several days was to produce more of those plus several sightings of Black-fronted Wood-Quail and Slaty-backed Nightingale-Thrush attracted by the compost or worms, as well as roosting Band-tailed Guans. An evening foray was lucky to obtain a sighting of a perched screech-owl that is undescribed.
Clear views are not unexpected at this time of year, but we were fortunate to have two CLEAR & CALM mornings on the top of the San Lorenzo ridge. Even on good days, clear does not last for long, but we were still able to enjoy good birding most of the morning. Our first morning had two especially exciting encounters: Santa Marta Parakeet and Santa Marta Bush-Tyrant. Seeing Santa Marta Warbler was also a good experience, and we further enjoyed easier endemics such as Yellow-crowned Redstart and Black-cheeked (Santa Marta) Mountain-Tanager. Much time was also invested in some skulkers, with sightings of Rufous Antpitta, Brown-rumped Tapaculo, and anachoreta Gray-breasted Wood-Wrens, a process that was to continue two days later with better views of the tapaculo and Rusty-headed Spinetail. Other great memories from the ridge were of White-tipped Quetzal and Strong-billed Woodcreeper.
We also went downslope from the lodge on two mornings, seeing several parrots and parakeets, Santa Marta Woodstar, Groove-billed Toucanet, Masked Trogon, Rusty-breasted Antpitta, Golden-breasted Fruiteater, and several thrushes, while improving views of Santa Marta Tapaculo and White-lored Warbler.There was also a taste of the spring that is coming to our homes shortly: many birds that breed in North America were wintering in Colombia, and we enjoyed some birds in spring finery, such as Blackburnian Warbler and Scarlet Tanager.
Mammals were few, and actually more than normal, including sightings of two primates, Night Monkey and (Venezuelan) Red Howler.
Those fine dawn views of the Sierra were views out over a landscape that has been greatly altered over the centuries. BirdLife estimates that only 15% of the Sierra's original vegetation is intact. Evidence of changes in this region are reflected in the conservation status of the species we saw: 1 Critically Endangered, 2 Endangered, 5 Vulnerable, and 3 Near Threatened.
Our tour was made easy by the efforts of many EcoTurs staff and helpers, from Adela, Anna, and Flor in the kitchen at El Dorado, Lorenzo on the grounds, hard-working volunteers like Sam, and several competent and patient drivers like Montero, Jorge, and Virgilio.
The taxonomy tries to follow the recent Clements (Cornell) changes. Conservation information is drawn from the publications of BirdLife International. Apologies to the Spanish language for omitting certain punctuation marks that do not survive cross-platform computer usage.
--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)
GRAY TINAMOU (Tinamus tao) –
Occasionally heard as a distant voice in the forest
downslope from the lodge. [*]
Anatidae (Ducks, Geese, and Waterfowl)
BLUE-WINGED TEAL (Anas discors) – Wintering birds were common on the
marshes and lagoons of Isla Salamanca. [b] Cracidae (Guans, Chachalacas, and
Curassows)
CHESTNUT-WINGED CHACHALACA (Ortalis garrula) – Our primary (and marginal) spot having
burned in the last year, we tried another idea from
Virgilio, and with Miles' great spotting, saw two in
woodland at the edge of Barranquilla our first morning.
Whew! [E] 
Santa Marta
Antpitta had been intermittently AWOL at the feeding
sessions, but we were fortunate to be back in the groove
on our first attempt at El Dorado, and it was seen again
on subsequent evenings, though not on schedule. (Photo by
guide Richard Webster)
BAND-TAILED GUAN
(Penelope argyrotis) – From the El Dorado lodge this species was
heard every morning and evening, and often into the night;
on a couple of occasions we saw birds coming to roost in
trees along the entrance road.
SICKLE-WINGED GUAN
(Chamaepetes goudotii) – Seen several times by folks birding on
the lodge grounds, and by the group in the forests of the
upper ridge.
Odontophoridae (New World Quail)
BLACK-FRONTED WOOD-QUAIL (Odontophorus atrifrons) – We were very fortunate to stay at El
Dorado during a period when the quail were daily visitors to
the compost pile. Great views! In addition, a family group
was seen a couple of times around some of the rooms and in
the antpitta feeding area. It is considered "Vulnerable."
Fregatidae (Frigatebirds)
MAGNIFICENT FRIGATEBIRD (Fregata magnificens) – A few were seen along the coast at
Camarones; a symbol of a tropical coastal vacation! Phalacrocoracidae (Cormorants and Shags)
NEOTROPIC CORMORANT (Phalacrocorax brasilianus) – Common on Isla Salamanca, with more at
Camarones. Pelecanidae (Pelicans)
BROWN PELICAN (Pelecanus occidentalis) – Small numbers were along the coast at
Isla Salamanca and Camarones. Ardeidae (Herons, Egrets, and Bitterns)
GREAT BLUE HERON (Ardea herodias) – At least ten on the lagoon at Camarones
were probably getting ready to head north, and near the
southern end of the wintering range. [b] COCOI HERON
(Ardea cocoi) – A few in freshwater marshes on Isla
Salamanca.
GREAT EGRET
(Ardea alba) – Abundant on Isla Salamanca, where
hundreds were in tidal lagoons along the highway.
SNOWY EGRET
(Egretta thula) – Common on Isla Salamanca, with more at
Camarones.
LITTLE BLUE HERON
(Egretta caerulea) – A few at Isla Salamanca, with another at
Camarones.
TRICOLORED HERON
(Egretta tricolor) – A handful each at Isla Salamanca and
Camarones.
REDDISH EGRET
(Egretta rufescens) – A half dozen on each visit to Camarones;
all dark morph birds this year. It is considered "Near
Threatened."
CATTLE EGRET
(Bubulcus ibis) – Small numbers on Isla Salamanca, and a
few more in pastures en route to Riohacha.
STRIATED HERON
(Butorides striata) – A few on Isla Salamanca, e.g., along the
mangrove boardwalk.
YELLOW-CROWNED
NIGHT-HERON (Nyctanassa
violacea) – Several adults
were feeding along the edge of the tidal lagoon at Camarones
early in the morning.
Threskiornithidae (Ibises and Spoonbills)
WHITE IBIS (Eudocimus
albus) – Small flocks were
around the lagoon at Camarones, and on some of the rainwater
pools in the nearby woodland. SCARLET IBIS
(Eudocimus ruber) – A few on both visits to Camarones, mostly
"salmon" ibis, but at least one fully-colored bird in
flight.
In addition to
the many Santa Marta endemics, there are a number of
distinctive subspecies, such as this sanctaemartae Masked
Trogon. With further study (it has a longer song than
Andean subspecies), some of these may yet be elevated to
species status. (Photo by guide Richard Webster)
BARE-FACED IBIS
(Phimosus infuscatus) – Several small groups were seen on Isla
Salamanca, with good views in the telescope. a.k.a.
Whispering Ibis.
ROSEATE SPOONBILL
(Platalea ajaja) – Fairly common at Camarones, where small
groups were foraging on the tidal lagoon and in rainwater
ponds.
Cathartidae (New World Vultures)
BLACK VULTURE (Coragyps atratus) – A common commensal at lower elevations.
TURKEY VULTURE
(Cathartes aura) – Widespread in small numbers, including up
to the top of the ridge. An attempt by the lodge to feed
Condors a cow's head had so far netted Turkey and King
Vultures.
LESSER
YELLOW-HEADED VULTURE (Cathartes
burrovianus) – A couple were
seen over the marshes of Isla Salamanca.
KING VULTURE
(Sarcoramphus papa) – One adult was seen soaring over the
slopes above Minca.
Pandionidae (Osprey)
OSPREY (Pandion
haliaetus) – One at Isla
Salamanca, two at Camarones, and one at 2,600m above the San
Lorenzo ridge on 23 March (migrant? but one was there a week
earlier!). [b] Accipitridae (Hawks, Eagles, and Kites)
PEARL KITE (Gampsonyx
swainsonii) – We had nice
views of one near Camarones, first in flight, then perched
at length, allowing good telescope views. Regular in the
area, but always a treat to find. SNAIL KITE
(Rostrhamus sociabilis) – Common, foraging in the marshy
impoundments of Isla Salamanca.
PLUMBEOUS KITE
(Ictinia plumbea) – Tom spotted a pair perched below the
'pool table' junction above Minca.
BLACK-COLLARED
HAWK (Busarellus nigricollis)
– Nice views of an adult hunting the
rainwater ponds near Camarones.
SAVANNA HAWK
(Buteogallus meridionalis) – One was seen from the bus by some folks
en route to Riohacha.
HARRIS'S HAWK
(Parabuteo unicinctus) – Good views of two birds over the woodland
near Camarones.
BROAD-WINGED HAWK
(Buteo platypterus) – At least four sightings of wintering (or
migrant) birds at middle elevations on the slopes; probably
close to departing for Tonya's backyard! [b]
GRAY HAWK (Buteo nitidus) – Good views of a perched bird Tom spotted
above Minca, where another was heard. Gray Hawk has been
split intermittently, and a recent article further
recommended that; if split, we saw "Gray-lined" Hawk, which
will stay B. nitidus (versus "Gray-backed," B. plagiatus, of
the U.S. to Costa Rica).
BLACK HAWK-EAGLE
(Spizaetus tyrannus) – One was seen by part of the group as it
soared over the valley behind our hotel in Minca.
Falconidae (Falcons and Caracaras)
BARRED FOREST-FALCON (Micrastur ruficollis) – Heard calling every evening at El Dorado,
where Tonya saw one while birding on the grounds. COLLARED
FOREST-FALCON (Micrastur
semitorquatus) – We were
lucky to have one fly in and perch near us in woodland
behind Minca.
CRESTED CARACARA
(Caracara cheriway) – Small numbers were seen in open country
of the coastal plain, including at Camarones, where a little
copulation enlivened the birding scene!
YELLOW-HEADED
CARACARA (Milvago chimachima
chimachima) – Seen in
Barranquilla our first morning, and again along the highway
to Riohacha.
AMERICAN KESTREL
(Falco sparverius) – One near Camarones.
BAT FALCON
(Falco rufigularis) – Seen by Tom near El Dorado, and then we
enjoyed telescope views of a pair perched on the slopes
below the pool table junction.
PEREGRINE FALCON
(Falco peregrinus) – One bird was seen in flight as we loaded
to leave our hotel in Barranquilla.
Rallidae (Rails, Gallinules, and Coots)
One of the
livelier (hence easier) endemics is the Yellow-crowned
Redstart (Whitestart), a frequently-heard songster of the
upper elevations on the San Lorenzo ridge. (Photo by guide
Richard Webster)
COMMON GALLINULE
(Gallinula galeata) – Also seen on Isla Salamanca.
Aramidae (Limpkin)
LIMPKIN (Aramus
guarauna) – Good views of a
few in the marshes of Isla Salamanca. Charadriidae (Plovers and Lapwings)
SOUTHERN LAPWING (Vanellus chilensis) – Common in fields and pastures on Isla
Salamanca. BLACK-BELLIED
PLOVER (Pluvialis squatarola)
– A few at Camarones. [b]
SEMIPALMATED
PLOVER (Charadrius
semipalmatus) – Common on the
tidal flats at Camarones (a spurt of migrants?). [b]
Haematopodidae (Oystercatchers)
AMERICAN OYSTERCATCHER (Haematopus palliatus) – One at Camarones the first evening.
Recurvirostridae (Stilts and Avocets)
BLACK-NECKED STILT (Himantopus mexicanus) – Fairly common in the marshes of Isla
Salamanca. Jacanidae (Jacanas)
WATTLED JACANA (Jacana jacana) – Common in the marshes on Isla Salamanca,
with close views from the boardwalk, plus a few more on
rainwater ponds near Camarones. These birds are mostly black
(subspecies hypomelaena), with a few chestnut wing coverts.
Scolopacidae (Sandpipers and Allies)
SPOTTED SANDPIPER (Actitis macularius) – Scattered small numbers in the coastal
wetlands, plus one along the river at Minca. [b] SOLITARY SANDPIPER
(Tringa solitaria) – Singles were widespread on Isla
Salamanca. [b]
GREATER YELLOWLEGS
(Tringa melanoleuca) – Small numbers on Isla Salamanca and the
lagoon at Camarones.
WILLET (Tringa semipalmata) – Common on the lagoon at Camarones, with
30-40 each visit, including three eastern (nominate) birds
among the many western (inornata) birds. [b]
LESSER YELLOWLEGS
(Tringa flavipes) – Three on Isla Salamanca. [b]
WHIMBREL (Numenius phaeopus) – Up to a couple dozen at Camarones.
[b]
SANDERLING
(Calidris alba) – A few at Camarones. [b]
WESTERN SANDPIPER
(Calidris mauri) – Hundreds on the lagoon at Camarones were
probably migrating, rather than winterers; some Semipalmated
may have been present, but most were certainly Western.
[b]
LEAST SANDPIPER
(Calidris minutilla) – A couple of distant birds at Camarones.
[b]
Laridae (Gulls, Terns, and Skimmers)
LAUGHING GULL (Leucophaeus atricilla) – Common enough, although small numbers for
this species, at Camarones. GULL-BILLED TERN
(Gelochelidon nilotica) – Several in basic plumage were skimming
the surface of the tidal flats at Camarones; one
conveniently landed close enough for good views.
COMMON TERN
(Sterna hirundo) – About 500 on 19 March probably represent
an influx of migrants versus the day and week before.
ROYAL TERN
(Thalasseus maximus) – Common at Camarones, around 100 on each
visit, although most, as with other terns, were on distant
flats.
SANDWICH TERN
(Thalasseus sandvicensis) – Several dozen on both visits, again
mostly distant.
Columbidae (Pigeons and Doves)
ROCK PIGEON (Columba livia) – Feral Pigeons were in many communities.
[I] PALE-VENTED PIGEON
(Patagioenas cayennensis) – A couple of quick encounters with this
widespread species.
SCALED PIGEON
(Patagioenas speciosa) – One was seen, and another heard, on the
slopes below the pool table junction, a diversion from our
unsuccessful hunt for Rosy Thrush-Tanager and our eventually
successful search for Orange-billed Nightingale-Thrush.
BARE-EYED PIGEON
(Patagioenas corensis) – This regional specialty, shared with the
coastal deserts of Venezuela, was seen well, and in numbers,
around Camarones.
BAND-TAILED PIGEON
(WHITE-NECKED) (Patagioenas
fasciata albilinea) – Small
numbers were seen daily from the lodge up to the top of the
ridge.
COMMON GROUND-DOVE
(Columbina passerina) – On the coastal plain, at Isla Salamanca,
and around Camarones.
RUDDY GROUND-DOVE
(Columbina talpacoti) – A few the first morning on Isla
Salamanca.
SCALED DOVE
(Columbina squammata) – This attractive relative of Inca Dove was
seen well in small numbers near Camarones.
Always a bit of a
challenge, the endemic Santa Marta Warbler occurs in small
groups deep down in the large bamboo clumps of the upper
San Lorenzo ridge. (Photo by guide Richard Webster)
WHITE-TIPPED DOVE
(Leptotila verreauxi) – This shy dove is common in woodland at
lower elevations, below about 1,300m; over time, quite a few
were seen, a few well.
LINED QUAIL-DOVE
(Geotrygon linearis) – While birding around the lodge grounds
and trails, Tom flushed several, as others probably did as
well; there was no good group view this year, which requires
luck, the right compost, or a close, responsive bird.
Psittacidae (Parrots)
SANTA MARTA PARAKEET (Pyrrhura viridicata) – Calm weather in the morning probably
helped with our sighting of about 15 birds feeding in
eucalyptus (!) trees on the ridgetop. This species is
considered "Endangered," with a population under 10,000.
[E] SCARLET-FRONTED
PARAKEET (Aratinga wagleri
wagleri) – Daily, mostly
heard or seen in flight, but a few encounters with perched
birds, memorably the two that "jousted" for the top of a
broken palm trunk.
BROWN-THROATED
PARAKEET (Aratinga pertinax)
– Fairly common in the lowlands.
Several good views.
GREEN-RUMPED
PARROTLET (Forpus passerinus)
– Several sightings, including
telescope views, in the arid scrub around Camarones.
ORANGE-CHINNED
PARAKEET (Brotogeris
jugularis) – Seen on four
days, mostly heard/seen in flight, but also perched,
eventually with telescope views in Minca of what passes for
an orange chin!
BLUE-HEADED PARROT
(Pionus menstruus) – A few around Minca, including perched
birds.
RED-BILLED PARROT
(Pionus sordidus saturatus) – The montane Pionus, occurring above
Blue-headed; mostly heard/seen in flight, but also a few
perched.
SCALY-NAPED PARROT
(Amazona mercenaria) – Heard and seen regularly in flight over
the upper slopes.
Cuculidae (Cuckoos)
SQUIRREL CUCKOO (Piaya cayana) – Several encounters: in dry woodland
around Camarones and on the lower slopes of the Sierra
Nevada. STRIPED CUCKOO
(Tapera naevia) – Seen twice around Camarones, both
somewhat fleeting; these and others were heard.
GREATER ANI
(Crotophaga major) – One group of this large, glossy ani was
seen in the mangroves at Los Cocos in P.N. Isla Salamanca.
SMOOTH-BILLED ANI
(Crotophaga ani) – A few on Isla Salamanca, with a trio on
the lower slopes above Minca.
GROOVE-BILLED ANI
(Crotophaga sulcirostris) – The ani of the driest areas, seen around
Camarones.
Strigidae (Owls)
One of the joys
of our time at the El Dorado lodge was enjoying these
stunning Violet-crowned Woodnymphs at the feeders--always
present, always glowing. (Photo by guide Richard Webster)
FERRUGINOUS
PYGMY-OWL (Glaucidium
brasilianum) – Two were seen
in the dry woodland near Camarones, with more heard.
MOTTLED OWL
(Ciccaba virgata) – Heard during our owling and from the
lodge; not responsive in a couple of attempts, although our
focus was on the screech-owl. [*]
Caprimulgidae (Nightjars and Allies)
LESSER NIGHTHAWK (Chordeiles acutipennis) – Tonya spotted several at dusk as we
approached Riohacha. BAND-WINGED
NIGHTJAR (Caprimulgus
longirostris) – Seen by one
vehicle on a pre-dawn ascent of the high ridge.
Apodidae (Swifts)
CHESTNUT-COLLARED SWIFT (Streptoprocne rutila) – A few were seen around Minca and near El
Dorado. WHITE-COLLARED
SWIFT (Streptoprocne zonaris)
– The most frequent swift, seen daily
at moderate elevations.
LESSER
SWALLOW-TAILED SWIFT (Panyptila
cayennensis) – Two were seen
with other swifts at Minca.
Trochilidae (Hummingbirds)
WHITE-NECKED JACOBIN (Florisuga mellivora) – This spectacular species, part of the
oldest lineage of hummingbirds, was delightfully abundant at
the Hotel Minca feeders. RUFOUS-BREASTED
HERMIT (Glaucis hirsutus)
– A regular visitor in small numbers to
the Hotel Minca feeders.
PALE-BELLIED
HERMIT (Phaethornis
anthophilus) – One or two
were occasional visitors to the Hotel Minca feeders; good
views.
SOOTY-CAPPED
HERMIT (Phaethornis augusti)
– There are still some questions about
the middle elevation hermits on the San Lorenzo ridge, but
this appears to be the species we saw quickly several times
at around 1,500m.
BROWN VIOLETEAR
(Colibri delphinae) – One or two were regular visitors (and
even owners) of feeders at El Dorado.
GREEN VIOLETEAR
(Colibri thalassinus) – Common at the El Dorado feeders; not on
the upper ridge, but regular at flowers at middle
elevations.
BLACK-THROATED
MANGO (Anthracothorax
nigricollis) – Regular in
small numbers, with up to seven at once, at the Hotel Minca
feeders; good views of both females and males.
BLOSSOMCROWN
(Anthocephala floriceps) – This difficult species was, fortunately,
staked out in a garden, not that it was easy there (bullied
by the violetears). So we saw it twice there, and then Tonya
spotted one at the edge of another garden, feeding on a
flowering vine at the edge of the garden, the closest we
came to a wild setting (no complaints--wild ones are rarely
seen). It is considered "Vulnerable." [E]
TYRIAN METALTAIL
(Metallura tyrianthina districta)
– This endemic subspecies, differing
from nearby populations in tail color, was regular in the
Lodge gardens and feeders, and more common on the upper
ridge.
WHITE-TAILED
STARFRONTLET (Coeligena
phalerata) – This striking
species was in short supply (not that it is ever really
common), but we had excellent looks at both sexes at the
Lodge feeders (but only occasionally) and a couple of times
in the wild on the upper San Lorenzo ridge. [E]
LONG-BILLED
STARTHROAT (Heliomaster
longirostris) – At least two
were regular visitors to the feeders at the Hotel Minca;
good views.
SANTA MARTA
WOODSTAR (Chaetocercus
astreans) – One of the more
difficult endemics, and certainly so this year. After seeing
a female briefly, at best, feeding in the canopy before
being driven off by Green Violetears, it took to the last
morning when we had several views of a female in a garden,
and then Ben spotted a perched eclipse male that stayed long
enough for telescope views. [E]
RED-BILLED EMERALD
(Chlorostilbon gibsoni nitens) – We had excellent views of perhaps ten in
the Camarones males, mostly glittering, exquisite males. The
taxonomy of the "Blue-tailed Emerald" complex has varied. We
saw the subspecies nitens, with minimal or no red at the
base of the bill; it is currently allied (for reasons other
than bill color!) with Red-billed Emerald (Gary Stiles,
Wilson Bull. 1996).
COPPERY EMERALD
(Chlorostilbon russatus) – This scarce bird, a regional specialty,
was seen very well--a female foraging in the Tienda garden.
WHITE-VENTED
PLUMELETEER (Chalybura
buffonii) – This striking
bird was common (males) at the Hotel Minca feeders, and we
saw more (including a few females) on the lower slopes (the
closest thing to a Santa Marta Sabrewing!).
VIOLET-CROWNED
WOODNYMPH (Thalurania
colombica) – One of the most
beautiful birds on the planet, and easy to enjoy at the El
Dorado feeders, with smaller numbers in the wilds at middle
elevations. A split of the Fork-tailed Woodnymph complex.
BUFFY HUMMINGBIRD
(Leucippus fallax) – Having just missed this species the week
before, it was a pleasant surprise to have one show up for
the first Pygmy-Owl session, and then to see several more. A
regional specialty of the coastal deserts.
STEELY-VENTED
HUMMINGBIRD (Amazilia
saucerrottei) – Common at the
Hotel Minca feeders, where seen beautifully, but always a
little bit overshadowed by bigger and even showier species.
RUFOUS-TAILED
HUMMINGBIRD (Amazilia tzacatl)
– Fairly common at the Hotel Minca
feeders.
SAPPHIRE-BELLIED
HUMMINGBIRD (Lepidopyga
lilliae) – We certainly had
good looks at perhaps four females (or young males--some
them were very aggressive!) and one adult male at flowering
trees at P.N. Salamanca. This species is known from only a
couple of specimens and a few sightings from this area, and
is considered Critically Endangered, in part from a lack of
data. Some photographs I have taken here before show some
green on the lower underparts, and the status of these birds
versus Sapphire-throated is not clear, but the birds we saw
best fit Sapphire-bellied in appearance and distribution.
WHITE-CHINNED
SAPPHIRE (Hylocharis cyanus)
– One perched near the Hotel Minca
feeders (but not actually visiting them?) departed before it
could be seen by all.
Trogonidae (Trogons)
WHITE-TIPPED QUETZAL (Pharomachrus fulgidus) – Common by voice in the forests on the
upper ridge, and seen several times, with great looks at
both males and females, a couple of times at close range.
Wow. A limited range in northern Colombia and Venezuela.
MASKED TROGON
(Trogon personatus sanctaemartae)
– We had great views of a male below
the lodge and then of a female a couple of days later, with
other sightings around the lodge during breaks. This endemic
subspecies has been suggested as a potential split (Niels
Krabbe); its song is longer than that of Andean populations.
Momotidae (Motmots)
WHOOPING MOTMOT (Momotus subrufescens) – We saw this bird in the yard at the Hotel
Minca, with further sightings at the feeding tray there.
Blue-crowned Motmot was recently split into this and several
other species (Gary Stiles in Orn. Colombiana). Alcedinidae (Kingfishers)
RINGED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle torquata) – Several on Isla Salamanca. AMAZON KINGFISHER
(Chloroceryle amazona) – One on the Rio Piedra at lunch the first
day, and another at Camarones.
GREEN KINGFISHER
(Chloroceryle americana) – Five our first day: Isla Salamanca, Rio
Piedra, and Camarones rainwater ponds.
AMERICAN PYGMY
KINGFISHER (Chloroceryle
aenea) – Resident in the
mangroves, but hard to find; we were fortunate to have
telescope views of one at P.N. Isla Salamanca.
Bucconidae (Puffbirds)
RUSSET-THROATED PUFFBIRD (Hypnelus ruficollis) – Kristine spotted our first on Isla
Salamanca, which was followed by several more at Camarones.
A regional specialty; we saw the nominate form, which is
split by some from Two-banded, H. [r.] bicinctus. Galbulidae (Jacamars)
RUFOUS-TAILED JACAMAR (Galbula ruficauda) – Nice views in the dry woodland behind
Camarones and again around Minca. Ramphastidae (Toucans)
EMERALD TOUCANET (SANTA MARTA) (Aulacorhynchus prasinus lautus) – Common on the upper slopes of the San
Lorenzo ridge; good views several times. This endemic
subspecies is split by some, although it seems to be a minor
variation on a widespread (but wonderful) theme. GROOVE-BILLED
TOUCANET (YELLOW-BILLED) (Aulacorhynchus
sulcatus calorhynchus) – We
saw several pairs in the lower band of evergreen forest,
well below the Lodge. We saw the "Yellow-billed" type, which
has been split from Groove-billed in some lists; a recent
paper on toucanet genetics (Eliza Bonaccorso et al.,
Zoologica Scripta 2011) recommended that they be treated as
one species.
KEEL-BILLED TOUCAN
(Ramphastos sulfuratus) – Fairly common, especially by voice, and
one of Lucy's favorites; good views, especially around
Minca.
Picidae (Woodpeckers)
SCALED PICULET (Picumnus squamulatus) – A scarce bird in this area and somewhat
local overall (although often seen in Venezuela); we usually
miss it, but this year we had several encounters in and
above Minca. CHESTNUT PICULET
(Picumnus cinnamomeus) – Another difficult bird that this year
seemed easy. We had a family group in the mangroves at Los
Cocos, and then saw them several more times in the dry
woodland near Camarones. A lovely piculet, and a regional
specialty shared with western Venezuela.
RED-CROWNED
WOODPECKER (Melanerpes
rubricapillus) – Heard
regularly at lower elevations. Birds in the car park at the
Hotel Minca were bringing food to a hole. [N]
GOLDEN-OLIVE
WOODPECKER (Colaptes
rubiginosus) – A couple of
sightings in montane forest. C. r. alleni.
SPOT-BREASTED
WOODPECKER (Colaptes
punctigula) – Ben got us on a
pair on Isla Salamanca, with good views, including
eventually of the spots!
CRIMSON-CRESTED
WOODPECKER (Campephilus
melanoleucos) – One at Palo
Alto was briefly cooperative, then faded back into the
forest.
Furnariidae (Ovenbirds and Woodcreepers)
GRAY-THROATED LEAFTOSSER (Sclerurus albigularis) – Very nice views of a responsive bird that
resumed tossing leaves as we watched. Widespread, but seldom
seen, especially so well. PALE-LEGGED
HORNERO (CARIBBEAN) (Furnarius
leucopus longirostris) – Seen
first on Isla Salamanca, then near Camarones. This
subspecies is split on some lists as Caribbean Hornero.
PALE-BREASTED
SPINETAIL (Synallaxis
albescens) – Seen by Tom near
Camarones.
RUSTY-HEADED
SPINETAIL (Synallaxis
fuscorufa) – This endemic, a
relative of Rufous, is common, but also a skulker, and it
took a number of encounters before we all had had a good
look. It is considered "Vulnerable," with a population under
10,000. [E]
WHITE-WHISKERED
SPINETAIL (Synallaxis candei)
– A gorgeous bird, and common, which
makes for a pleasant combination while birding around
Camarones--repeat sightings. A regional specialty of the
Caribbean coastal deserts. Formerly in the genus Poecilurus,
but genetically part of Synallaxis.
STREAK-CAPPED
SPINETAIL (Cranioleuca
hellmayri) – The Cranioleuca
of the Sierra Nevada, this arboreal spinetail was easier to
see than Rusty-headed. Our best views were of one that
perched motionless in the Tienda garden, allowing lengthy
telescope views. Known also from the Sierra de Perija,
including the Venezuela side, it is not an endemic, but it
is always a lifer for all.
YELLOW-CHINNED
SPINETAIL (Certhiaxis
cinnamomeus) – Responsive
birds approached closely enough for views of the tiny yellow
chin.
SPOTTED BARBTAIL
(Premnoplex brunnescens) – Tom photographed a juvenile near a stream
on the lower slopes. Widespread in the Andes, but uncommonly
seen along the road here.
MONTANE
FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Anabacerthia
striaticollis anxia) –
Regular with mixed flocks in the evergreen forest at middle
elevations.
SANTA MARTA
FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Automolus
rufipectus) – This endemic
ranges down to Minca, one of the lowest on the slope. We saw
one above Minca, ending up with good looks as it resumed
foraging. Originally described as a subspecies of Ruddy
Foliage-gleaner, Niels Krabbe published a paper (Bull.
B.O.C.) elevating it to species status on several bases,
including the distinctive call that suggests it should be
placed in the genus Hylocryptus, subject to genetic
confirmation. It is considered "Near Threatened." [E]
STREAKED XENOPS
(Xenops rutilans) – Several sightings with mixed flocks at
middle elevations.
PLAIN-BROWN
WOODCREEPER (Dendrocincla
fuliginosa) – One was seen in
moist woodland near Minca.
STRONG-BILLED
WOODCREEPER (Xiphocolaptes
promeropirhynchus) – Our
first got away quickly, but then we had good views of a pair
on the upper ridge, and were able to enjoy their foraging
strategy of searching bromeliads for frogs and other prey.
X. p. sanctaemartae.
STRAIGHT-BILLED
WOODCREEPER (Dendroplex picus)
– Good views on Isla Salamanca,
followed by a few quickly near Camarones. D. p. picirostris.
STREAK-HEADED
WOODCREEPER (Lepidocolaptes
souleyetii) – Briefly near
Camarones, then a series of better sightings on both visits
to the Minca area.
MONTANE
WOODCREEPER (Lepidocolaptes
lacrymiger sanctaemartae) –
Seen daily on the upper slopes, with good views from the
track on the ridgetop. This endemic subspecies has been
suggested as a potential split (Niels Krabbe).
Thamnophilidae (Typical Antbirds)
BLACK-CRESTED ANTSHRIKE (Sakesphorus canadensis) – Our first were in the mangroves at P.N.
Isla Salamanca, followed by more good looks in the dry
woodlands at Camarones. S. c. pulchellus (phainoleucos).
BARRED ANTSHRIKE
(Thamnophilus doliatus) – A pair eventually responded near Minca.
WESTERN
SLATY-ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus
atrinucha) – A very
responsive bird in a moist ravine on the lower slopes
provided good views.
BLACK-BACKED
ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus
melanonotus) – This regional
specialty was a struggle in woodland near Minca, where most
eventually had good looks. A recent genetic study showed
that this species belongs in Thamnophilus, not Sakesphorus.
WHITE-FRINGED
ANTWREN (Formicivora grisea)
– We saw several pairs of this
attractive antwren in the dry woodland and desert scrub near
Camarones. We saw F. g. intermedia, in which the female is
white below with black streaks.
LONG-TAILED
ANTBIRD (Drymophila caudata)
– With patience we saw a responsive
bird in the bracken. D. c. hellmayri. In the Sierra Nevada
de Santa Marta, this species occurs at relatively low
elevations in ferns and other second growth of disturbed
slopes, and not in the more characteristic bamboo of the
upper slopes typical of Andean populations.
Grallariidae (Antpittas)
SANTA MARTA ANTPITTA (Grallaria bangsi) – The Lodge antpitta had become
temperamental about its feeding time, but on our first
attempt we were lucky to have it arrive right on schedule.
Great views of a bird that can be tough to see. On other
occasions it was seen again at its worm bowl. It is
considered "Vulnerable." [E]
RUFOUS ANTPITTA
(Grallaria rufula spatiator) – It took a while, but we ended up with
fantastic views of at least two birds in the dense bamboo of
the San Lorenzo ridge; we usually do not see it this well.
Rufous Antpitta is the subject of an ongoing major study,
and it is likely to be split into six or more species, this
being one of them (the voice is distinctive).
RUSTY-BREASTED
ANTPITTA (RUSTY-BREASTED) (Grallaricula
ferrugineipectus ferrugineipectus) – Tonya spotted one that was foraging in
the forest understory, and we ended up with several views of
it. Two days later we had some more good views of one that
was foraging around a small swarm of small army ants.
Rhinocryptidae (Tapaculos)
SANTA MARTA TAPACULO (Scytalopus sanctaemartae) – Most had good views of our first, and we
kept trying a couple of days later, and had excellent views
of a couple in a wet ravine, one showing a small white crown
spot. Prior to The Big Split (The Big Bang for tapaculos),
this was treated as part of Rufous-vented. [E] BROWN-RUMPED
TAPACULO (Scytalopus
latebricola) – After quick
views for part of the group, we tried again a couple of days
later, and tried and tried and tried, and then met a
wonderfully responsive bird that provided some super views.
Prior to The Big Split, "Brown-rumped" also included some
populations in the Andes, but the name is now restricted to
the nominate population of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta.
[E]
Tyrannidae (Tyrant Flycatchers)
SOUTHERN BEARDLESS-TYRANNULET (Camptostoma obsoletum) – One above Minca on our last morning.
WHITE-THROATED
TYRANNULET (Mecocerculus
leucophrys) – Several small
groups, part of small mixed flocks, were seen on the top of
the ridge.
GREENISH ELAENIA
(Myiopagis viridicata) – One in dry woodland near Minca.
YELLOW-BELLIED
ELAENIA (Elaenia flavogaster)
– Heard and seen in the Minca area.
MOUNTAIN ELAENIA
(Elaenia frantzii) – Fairly common from middle elevations to
the top of the San Lorenzo ridge.
OLIVE-STRIPED
FLYCATCHER (Mionectes
olivaceus) – Daily in small
numbers from middle elevations to the top. In the absence of
its congener, Streak-necked Flycatcher, Olive-striped occurs
to rather high elevations, e.g., 2,600m. M. o. galbinus.
OCHRE-BELLIED
FLYCATCHER (Mionectes
oleagineus) – Several
sightings around Minca.
GOLDEN-FACED
TYRANNULET (GOLDEN-FACED) (Zimmerius
chrysops minimus) – One near
Minca.
NORTHERN
SCRUB-FLYCATCHER (Sublegatus
arenarum) – Looking like a
small, short-billed Myiarchus, this flycatcher was common in
the dry woodland, scrub, and mangroves of the coastal
margin.
SLENDER-BILLED
TYRANNULET (Inezia
tenuirostris) – A regional
specialty, it was seen well on both of our visits to the
Camarones area.
PALE-TIPPED
TYRANNULET (Inezia caudata)
– A responsive pair provided good views
in denser woodland near Camarones. a.k.a. Pale-tipped
Inezia. As split from Amazonian Tyrannulet.
PALE-EYED
PYGMY-TYRANT (Atalotriccus
pilaris) – Several were seen,
and more heard, in moist woodland of the Minca area,
including one responsive bird that approached closely.
PEARLY-VENTED
TODY-TYRANT (Hemitriccus
margaritaceiventer) – Two
were seen in the low, coastal scrub before Camarones.
BLACK-THROATED
TODY-TYRANT (Hemitriccus
granadensis) – As a group, we
only heard it, but there were at least two sightings (Tonya,
Tom, and perhaps others) in the Lodge area.
YELLOW-OLIVE
FLYCATCHER (SANTA MARTA) (Tolmomyias
sulphurescens exortivus) – We
saw this bird along a track above Minca.
YELLOW-BREASTED
FLYCATCHER (OCHRE-LORED) (Tolmomyias
flaviventris aurulentus) – A
couple were seen in the denser woodland near water at
Camarones.
CINNAMON
FLYCATCHER (Pyrrhomyias
cinnamomeus assimilis) – This
extra-cinnamon subspecies of Cinnamon Flycatcher was most"
in our face" at the Lodge, where it was nesting under the
eaves, and sallying over our heads as we got out of the
vehicles. [N]
TROPICAL PEWEE
(Contopus cinereus) – Fairly common around Minca, and
conspicuous on the grounds of the hotel.
ACADIAN FLYCATCHER
(Empidonax virescens) – A couple of calling birds in a moist
ravine near Minca were seen by part of the group. [b]
WILLOW FLYCATCHER
(Empidonax traillii) – One in scrub by the marsh on Isla
Salamanca even sang once. [b]
BLACK PHOEBE
(Sayornis nigricans) – One along a small river above Minca.
VERMILION
FLYCATCHER (Pyrocephalus
rubinus) – Fairly common
around Isla Salamanca and Camarones.
SANTA MARTA
BUSH-TYRANT (Myiotheretes
pernix) – One of the more
difficult endemics, we owe our good looks (and not having to
search and search) to Ben's good spotting our first morning
on the San Lorenzo ridge. It is considered "Endangered" with
a population under 2,500. [E]
PIED WATER-TYRANT
(Fluvicola pica) – First at the marshes on Isla Salamanca,
then around the rainwater ponds near Camarones.
YELLOW-BELLIED
CHAT-TYRANT (Ochthoeca
diadema) – Our first was very
responsive, approaching within a meter, but mostly staying
out of sight in the dense bamboo; another on our return
visit came out in the open for better views. O. d. jesupi.
CATTLE TYRANT
(Machetornis rixosa) – We encountered the criminal element,
filching from the breakfast buffet at our hotel in
Barranquilla! No binoculars required.
BRIGHT-RUMPED
ATTILA (Attila spadiceus)
[*]
DUSKY-CAPPED
FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus
tuberculifer) – Several on
the forested slopes.
PANAMA FLYCATCHER
(Myiarchus panamensis) – First seen in the mangroves at Los Cocos,
then in woodland near Minca.
GREAT CRESTED
FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus
crinitus) – Near Minca.
[*]
BROWN-CRESTED
FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus
tyrannulus) – Fairly common
around Camarones.
GREAT KISKADEE
(Pitangus sulphuratus) – Widespread at lower elevations.
BOAT-BILLED
FLYCATCHER (Megarynchus
pitangua) – Several
encounters in the Minca area, where some were doing their
duty, eating cicadas, but only making a dent in the din.
RUSTY-MARGINED
FLYCATCHER (Myiozetetes
cayanensis) – Miles pointed
out a couple near Minca.
SOCIAL FLYCATCHER
(Myiozetetes similis) – Widespread at lower elevations.
GOLDEN-CROWNED
FLYCATCHER (Myiodynastes
chrysocephalus) – The best
view for some was of a bird on the railing of the El Dorado
Lodge, probably looking for moths attracted by the lodge
lights.
STREAKED
FLYCATCHER (Myiodynastes
maculatus) – Several
encounters in the Minca area.
PIRATIC FLYCATCHER
(Legatus leucophaius) – A couple were singing near Minca.
TROPICAL KINGBIRD
(Tyrannus melancholicus) – Widespread at lower elevations.
GRAY KINGBIRD
(Tyrannus dominicensis) – A few were still present along the coast,
and were probably close to departure for other parts of the
Caribbean. (Not exactly a 'boreal' migrant, but certainly
migratory in a typical north-south fashion.) [b]
FORK-TAILED
FLYCATCHER (Tyrannus savana)
– Tonya saw one in the Tayrona area.
Cotingidae (Cotingas)
GOLDEN-BREASTED FRUITEATER (Pipreola aureopectus) – Ben located the bird we had been hearing,
and it stayed put for telescope views. A lovely bird that
was heard periodically, but is often a challenge to spot.
RED-CRESTED
COTINGA (Ampelion
rubrocristatus) – We saw a
trio on the top of the ridge, the telescope showing the
recumbent red crest.
Pipridae (Manakins)
WHITE-BEARDED MANAKIN (Manacus manacus) – Several females were seen around Minca.
Tityridae (Tityras and Allies)
MASKED TITYRA (Tityra semifasciata) – A couple of pairs were seen on the lower
slopes. CINEREOUS BECARD
(Pachyramphus rufus) – Several were seen around Minca.
Vireonidae (Vireos)
BROWN-CAPPED VIREO (Vireo leucophrys) – The southern replacement for Warbling
Vireo. The sweet song was heard regularly in the
lower-elevation evergreen forest; several were seen with
mixed flocks. RED-EYED VIREO
(Vireo olivaceus) – Found eating fruit near Minca, and one
was seen on the high ridge, probably an early spring
migrant. [b]
SCRUB GREENLET
(Hylophilus flavipes) – Regularly seen in the dry scrub of the
coastal desert.
GOLDEN-FRONTED
GREENLET (Hylophilus
aurantiifrons) – A couple
near Minca.
Corvidae (Crows, Jays, and Magpies)
BLACK-CHESTED JAY (Cyanocorax affinis) – Dagmar observed how we were sharing the
mandarins with them in the garden of the Hotel Minca! Other
groups were seen well up the mountain, having colonized the
clearings. Hirundinidae (Swallows)
SOUTHERN ROUGH-WINGED SWALLOW (Stelgidopteryx ruficollis) – Small numbers at lower elevations.
GRAY-BREASTED
MARTIN (Progne chalybea)
– One was seen at Rio Piedra.
WHITE-WINGED
SWALLOW (Tachycineta
albiventer) – A few were over
the marshes on Isla Salamanca.
BARN SWALLOW
(Hirundo rustica) – A common migrant in the Camarones area.
[b]
Troglodytidae (Wrens)
STRIPE-BACKED WREN (Campylorhynchus nuchalis) – Several pairs of this large wren were
seen on our first walk on Isla Salamanca. BICOLORED WREN
(Campylorhynchus griseus) – This huge wren with an arresting voice
was widespread at lower elevations, with some of our best
sightings from the grounds of the Hotel Minca.
RUFOUS-BREASTED
WREN (Pheugopedius rutilus)
– A skulker, but with patience it was
seen well in roadside shrubbery above Minca. Genetic studies
have resulted in the division of Thryothorus into four
genera, three of which we saw among this and the next two
species.
RUFOUS-AND-WHITE
WREN (Thryophilus rufalbus)
– A wonderful voice and skulking
disposition; heard well around Minca, seen to varying
degrees during a couple of encounters, one pair passing high
overhead in the canopy.
BUFF-BREASTED WREN
(Cantorchilus leucotis) – Heard regularly in woodland around
Camarones, with several seen at close range.
HOUSE WREN
(SOUTHERN) (Troglodytes aedon
musculus) – Common up to at
least 1,400m.
GRAY-BREASTED
WOOD-WREN (Henicorhina
leucophrys anachoreta) – This
is the high elevation form that approached so closely, and
sang so loudly, on the San Lorenzo ridge. Based on song and
appearance, my suspicion is that this taxon will turn out to
be more closely related to wood-wrens like Bar-winged and
Munchique than to Gray-breasted.
GRAY-BREASTED
WOOD-WREN (Henicorhina
leucophrys bangsi) – This is
the lower elevation form, heard often, and seen regularly,
including in the lodge compost.
Polioptilidae (Gnatcatchers)
LONG-BILLED GNATWREN (Ramphocaenus melanurus) – A couple responded, although sticking to
dense, viney tangles overhead. TROPICAL
GNATCATCHER (TROPICAL) (Polioptila
plumbea plumbiceps) – Common
and conspicuous in the arid habitats around Camarones. Note
the subspecies: Splits are likely in this widespread,
variable complex.
Turdidae (Thrushes and Allies)
ORANGE-BILLED NIGHTINGALE-THRUSH
(Catharus aurantiirostris) – Tonya helped get us on this skulker,
which was singing loudly at close range, but avoiding
detection in the dense undergrowth. SLATY-BACKED
NIGHTINGALE-THRUSH (Catharus
fuscater) – A lovely
by-product of feeding the antpittas at the El Dorado Lodge:
One was a regular visitor to the worm dish, providing great
views and becoming one of the favorites of Jerry.
YELLOW-LEGGED
THRUSH (Turdus flavipes)
– The complex song was heard often on
the moist, lower slopes, and with time several were seen
well.
PALE-BREASTED
THRUSH (Turdus leucomelas)
– The noisy alarm calls are a
characteristic sound of the lower slopes; many were seen as
well (the default thrush of lower elevations).
CLAY-COLORED
THRUSH (Turdus grayi) – A few folks saw this species, near the
southern end of its range, during our chachalaca search in
Barranquilla.
BLACK-HOODED
THRUSH (Turdus olivater)
– Fairly common by voice in the
mid-elevation forests, and with time seen well several
times, but not a conspicuous bird.
GREAT THRUSH
(Turdus fuscater) – Fairly common in open areas on the top of
the San Lorenzo ridge.
WHITE-NECKED
THRUSH (Turdus albicollis)
– Heard a couple of times, then seen
briefly twice our last morning; a shy thrush of the forest.
Mimidae (Mockingbirds and Thrashers)
TROPICAL MOCKINGBIRD (Mimus gilvus) – Fairly common in the arid areas around
Camarones. Parulidae (New World Warblers)
NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH (Parkesia noveboracensis) – Several were seen in the mangroves at
P.N. Isla Salamanca, and several more were around rainwater
ponds near Camarones. [b] BLACK-AND-WHITE
WARBLER (Mniotilta varia)
– Three were seen in montane forest of
the Sierra. [b]
PROTHONOTARY
WARBLER (Protonotaria citrea)
– One at Los Cocos; they are common in
winter in the mangroves here, but most have already headed
north. [b]
TENNESSEE WARBLER
(Oreothlypis peregrina) – Fairly common over almost the entire
gradient of the San Lorenzo ridge. [b]
AMERICAN REDSTART
(Setophaga ruticilla) – Around ten were seen over the course of
our week on the slopes of the Sierra. [b]
BLACKBURNIAN
WARBLER (Setophaga fusca)
– The most common migrant warbler, with
a couple dozen seen during the week (perhaps fewer than
normal!). A gorgeous trash bird. [b]
YELLOW WARBLER
(NORTHERN) (Setophaga petechia
aestiva) – Fairly common in
the lowlands, occurring as high as Minca. [b]
RUFOUS-CAPPED
WARBLER (Basileuterus
rufifrons) – Common in moist
woodland around Minca. We saw B. r. mesochrysus, part of the
delattrii group ("Chestnut-capped" Warbler, with its yellow
belly).
GOLDEN-CROWNED
WARBLER (Basileuterus
culicivorus) – A couple of
pairs were along the track above Minca.
SANTA MARTA
WARBLER (Basileuterus
basilicus) – This warbler
with a striking face pattern was seen on both visits to the
top of the ridge, although, as usual, it was a skulker, and
took some time. It is considered "Vulnerable," with a
population of under 2,500. [E]
WHITE-LORED
WARBLER (Myiothlypis
conspicillatus) – Fairly
common and seen daily at middle elevations; some of our best
views came with the small swarm of ants our last afternoon.
It is considered "Near Threatened." [E]
SLATE-THROATED
REDSTART (Myioborus miniatus)
– Common from about the lodge down in
the evergreen forest.
YELLOW-CROWNED
REDSTART (Myioborus
flavivertex) – Easily seen
(and often heard) in the upper montane forest, especially
along the track on top of the San Lorenzo ridge. [E]
Coerebidae (Bananaquit)
BANANAQUIT (Coereba
flaveola) – A splotch of
color in the arid scrub around Camarones. Thraupidae (Tanagers and Allies)
BICOLORED CONEBILL (Conirostrum bicolor) – Several pairs were seen in the mangroves
at Los Cocos. WHITE-LINED
TANAGER (Tachyphonus rufus)
– A pair was seen in secondary growth
on the lower slopes.
CRIMSON-BACKED
TANAGER (Ramphocelus
dimidiatus) – This stunning
species was first seen during lunch along the Rio Piedra,
then around the Minca area.
BLUE-GRAY TANAGER
(Thraupis episcopus) – Common at lower elevations.
GLAUCOUS TANAGER
(Thraupis glaucocolpa) – This uncommon species was seen several
times in the dry woodland near Camarones, but was not easy
to find.
PALM TANAGER
(Thraupis palmarum) – Small numbers were around Minca.
BLUE-CAPPED
TANAGER (Thraupis
cyanocephala) – The montane
representative of the genus Thraupis; uncommon in evergreen
forest, including around the Lodge.
BLACK-CHEEKED
MOUNTAIN-TANAGER (Anisognathus
melanogenys) – The striking
endemic was seen on both visits to the high ridge. Not
common, but seen without great difficulty. [E]
BAY-HEADED TANAGER
(Tangara gyrola) – Quite common in the evergreen forests.
BLACK-CAPPED
TANAGER (Tangara heinei)
– Our best views were at close range,
as a pair came regularly to the banana feeder at El Dorado.
BLACK-HEADED
TANAGER (Tangara cyanoptera)
– An uncommon tanager of the lower
slopes; we had several sightings, including of a pair
building a nest on 22 March at 1300m. [N]
SWALLOW TANAGER
(Tersina viridis) – A pleasantly common and striking bird,
seen on five days on the lower slopes.
STREAKED SALTATOR
(Saltator striatipectus) – A few were around Minca and higher in
disturbed areas.
GRAYISH SALTATOR
(Saltator coerulescens) – Common around Camarones, where several
were observed snipping off the pink flowers for consumption.
ORINOCAN SALTATOR
(Saltator orenocensis) – Never common, but we had trouble this
year, with just one, that stayed in the back and mostly out
of view.
BUFF-THROATED
SALTATOR (Saltator maximus)
– Seen several times around Minca.
Emberizidae (Buntings, Sparrows and
Allies)
BLUE-BLACK GRASSQUIT (Volatinia jacarina) – Several sightings in disturbed areas on
the lower slopes. GRAY SEEDEATER
(Sporophila intermedia) – One pair was seen near Camarones by part
of the group.
YELLOW-BELLIED
SEEDEATER (Sporophila
nigricollis) – A pair was
seen on a grassy slope near Minca.
THICK-BILLED
SEED-FINCH (Oryzoborus
funereus) – The sweet song
was followed by good views above Minca. A split of Lesser
Seed-Finch into this and Chestnut-bellied.
PARAMO SEEDEATER
(Catamenia homochroa oreophila) – A scarce endemic subspecies (and not an
easy species to see anywhere in the Andes) that is generally
missed, but seemed to be in good supply this month. We saw
several on the San Lorenzo ridge.
BLACK-FACED
GRASSQUIT (Tiaris bicolor)
– A couple near Camarones, and a small
group on a cleared slope well above Minca.
WHITE-SIDED
FLOWERPIERCER (Diglossa
albilatera) – Regular at
upper elevations, with the best views being around the
garden at El Dorado Lodge.
RUSTY
FLOWERPIERCER (Diglossa
sittoides) – A couple on the
lower slopes, including a distant male (but in the
telescope) in a flowering tree.
PILEATED FINCH
(Coryphospingus pileatus) – Small numbers around Camarones; seen
several times.
GOLDEN-WINGED
SPARROW (Arremon schlegeli)
– This beautiful bird, a regional
specialty of the coastal mountains of Colombia and
Venezuela, was seen very well near Minca.
SIERRA NEVADA
BRUSH-FINCH (Arremon
basilicus) – A regular
visitor to a feeding tray and the compost at El Dorado, we
had good views. Stripe-headed Brush-Finch has been split
multiple ways based on a series of papers by C. D. Cadena,
and this is one split, endemic to the Sierra Nevada de Santa
Marta. It has also been called Colombian Brush-Finch, not a
great choice, and perhaps this name will stick. [E]
TOCUYO SPARROW
(Arremonops tocuyensis) – A regional specialty and seldom seen,
although it is supposed to be common in parts of its limited
range in NE Colombia and NW Venezuela. Miles suggested
trying a known spot early in the morning, and it worked
well, as a pair responded, and stayed around to feed calmly
at very close range. A lifer for REW.
SANTA MARTA
BRUSH-FINCH (Atlapetes
melanocephalus) – An easily
seen brush-finch, and quite common over a broad altitudinal
range on the San Lorenzo. [E]
RUFOUS-COLLARED
SPARROW (Zonotrichia capensis)
– Small numbers daily in cleared areas,
such as the lodge garden.
Cardinalidae (Cardinals and Allies)
SUMMER TANAGER (Piranga rubra) – A half dozen wintering or migrating birds
on the lower slopes. [b] SCARLET TANAGER
(Piranga olivacea) – A couple of lovely adult males in
breeding plumage on the lower slopes; already headed north?
VERMILION CARDINAL
(Cardinalis phoeniceus) – Uncommon around Camarones, we saw about
four, with good looks at both males and females in the arid
scrub. We then saw "our" Cardinal painted on the buses in
Barranquilla!
ROSE-BREASTED
GROSBEAK (Pheucticus
ludovicianus) – One of the
more common boreal migrants, with small groups seen nearly
daily on the slopes. [b]
INDIGO BUNTING
(Passerina cyanea) – A rarity this far south; two males
briefly in roadside shrubbery at 1,400m on 22 March.
[b]
Icteridae (Troupials and Allies)
GREAT-TAILED GRACKLE (Quiscalus mexicanus) – Common along the coastal margin. CARIB GRACKLE
(Quiscalus lugubris) – Small numbers along the coast, seen
especially well at lunch our first two days (the second one
involving some cause and effect). This species has recently
expanded greatly from the llanos into the coastal plain and
valleys of northern Colombia (and as Kristine had recently
seen, south into the mountain town of Ocana).
SHINY COWBIRD
(Molothrus bonariensis) – A few on the coastal slope and up to
Minca.
BRONZED COWBIRD
(BRONZE-BROWN) (Molothrus
aeneus armenti) – One male,
neck fluffed out, was on Isla Salamanca. This is the only
South American population of Bronzed Cowbird.
YELLOW ORIOLE
(Icterus nigrogularis) – Fairly common on the coastal slope.
BALTIMORE ORIOLE
(Icterus galbula) – A couple were seen on the coastal plain,
and it was fairly common around Minca, most probably close
to departure for the north. [b]
CRESTED OROPENDOLA
(Psarocolius decumanus) – Common from Minca to El Dorado, where a
colony in a tree off the deck provided daily entertainment.
Fringillidae (Siskins, Crossbills, and
Allies)
TRINIDAD EUPHONIA (Euphonia trinitatis) – Several were seen in the dry woodland
behind Camarones. THICK-BILLED
EUPHONIA (Euphonia
laniirostris) – Several
sightings around Minca.
BLUE-NAPED
CHLOROPHONIA (Chlorophonia
cyanea) – This widespread
beauty was seen several times, best for part of the group
that saw a pair come to the banana feeder at El Dorado, much
to Lucy's delight.
MAMMALS
NIGHT MONKEY SP.
(Aotus sp.) – Miles worked at getting sightings, and
while they did not hang around, we did have good views from
the Lodge. According to several books, we saw A. lemurinus,
Lemurine Night-Monkey, but further splits are anticipated.
RED HOWLER MONKEY
(Alouatta seniculus) – Usually only heard, we were fortunate to
be at the Lodge while a troop was foraging in the forest
bordering the clearing, and we had several nice encounters,
including telescope views from the deck of a mother with a
young monkey on her back.
RED-TAILED
SQUIRREL (Sciurus granatensis)
– The one guaranteed mammal of the
trip!
SOUTH AMERICAN
COATI (Nasua nasua) – Tom saw one in Minca.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Other significant critters:
Iguana: at the edge of Barranquilla.
American Crocodile: Several were nesting at Los Cocos, and we were warned not to walk a couple of paths. Several folks did see the snout of one among the mangroves.
Basilisk: Seen on Isla Salamanca and along the small river above Minca.
Dead snake in the road: Identified as the genus Chionurus.
Tree mouse sp.: Tonya has one.
Butterflies: Not huge numbers, but some nice selections, on which Kristine is doubtless working with her photographs.
Totals for the tour: 300 bird taxa and 4 mammal taxa