A Field Guides Birding Tours Report

Iquitos, Peru: Canopy Walkways & Ancient Forests 2023

July 30-August 12, 2023 with Bret Whitney & Micah Riegner guiding
Field Guides Birding Tours
This tiny striped ball of feathers is a Lanceolated Monklet, a scarce puffbird of western Amazonia and Andean foothills. The ACTS canopy walkway is perhaps the best place in the world to get eye-to-eye with this adorable canopy dweller. Photo by guide Micah Riegner.

Few places rival the avian diversity of the Iquitos area in Peru, a region packed with antbirds, puffbirds, cotingas, and tanagers, not to mention some very cool mammals like Pygmy Marmoset and Yellow-handed Titi. This rich diversity is due in part to the number of habitats clustered in a complex mosaic across the landscape, from white sands forests, where Iquitos Gnatcatchers chatter from stunted treetops, to cecropia-covered river islands, where Pale-billed Horneros strut across fallen leaves, to rumpled terra firme forests, where Nocturnal Curassows boom on moonlit nights. These were the forests we explored on our 12-day immersion in Amazonia Peruana.

Our adventure began in Lima, where we boarded the plane to fly over the Andes and down into the humid lowlands. The first few days we based in Iquitos and every morning we escaped the tuk tuk-clogged streets of town to drive south into the white sand forests of the Allpahuayo Mishana Reserve where, back in the early 2000’s, our very own Bret worked alongside Pepe Alvarez to describe Iquitos Gnatcatcher, Allpahuayo Antbird, Mishana Tyrannulet and Ancient Antwren. We had great luck with the gnatcatcher and the antwren; in fact, we saw the gnatcatcher on two independent visits. Most groups don’t see it at all. I hope we didn’t use up our gnatcatcher luck for next year! During our days in the reserve, we also saw Brown Nunlet, Yellow-billed Nunbird, Yellow-browed Antbird, Point-tailed Palmcreeper, a pair of Double-toothed Kites constructing a nest and a Pearly-breasted Cuckoo, which was a first record for Peru! We did some heat-scoping in the reserve at night and saw Yellow-crowned Brush-tailed Rat, Brown Woolly Opossum and a spectacular Phyllomedusa bicolor, a gorgeous canopy tree frog rarely seen at eye level.

We then worked our way down the Amazon and up the Napo, stopping to bird a river Island full of Parker’s Spinetails, Lesser Wagtail Tyrants, and Lesser Horneros before making a stop to see Western Pygmy Marmosets, the smallest of Amazonian primates. Right before lunch we made yet another stop where we pulled in Black-tailed Antbird and Pale-billed Hornero, two scarce varzea birds I was hoping we’d see! And as if that weren’t enough for one day, we spent the afternoon watching Black Bushbird, Black-spotted Bare-eye, Plumbeous Antbird, Moustached Antwren and Varzea Thrush behind Explorama Lodge!

After that night in Explorama, we visited Yanamono Island. Here, we had excellent looks at a pair of Orange-fronted Plushcrowns, Plain-breasted Piculets, a migrant Dark-billed Cuckoo, a stealthy Agami Heron and a Dull-capped Attila eating a larva. The rest of the tour we were based at the Amazon Conservatory for Tropical Studies (ACTS) lodge surrounded by hectares and hectares of unbroken terra firme forest. On our visits to the canopy walkway we enjoyed several active canopy flocks with Duida Woodcreeper, Gilded Barbets, a close Dugand’s Antwren and dazzling Green-and-gold, Paradise and Opal-crowned Tanagers. A pair of Lanceolated Monklets made an eye-level appearance, too. This is perhaps the best tour we offer to see this adorable puffbird.

One night after dinner we visited the canopy walkway and before we even arrived, we found a roosting White-throated Tinamou sitting on its tarsi about 15 feet off the ground. Once we were on the walkway we had an outstanding look at Black-banded Owl, which we saw sail in thanks to our thermal scopes. And it gets better than that! From the canopy walkway, Bret did a vocal imitation of Nocturnal Curassow and way off in the distance we heard one respond. We hastily shuffled down to the trail and Luis, our local guide, bolted off in the direction of the curassow. Conveniently, the trail went right to it. Less than 5 minutes later, Luis had found the bird and we were underneath it as it sang, just 20 feet above us!

Time flew by as we birded the forest trails at ACTS, racking up goodies like Rusty-belted Tapaculo, Musician Wren, Fulvous Antshrike, and Black-and-white Tody-Flycatcher and, before we knew it, it was time to head back to Iquitos. While cruising downstream on the Napo, we made an important stop on a young river island where we saw Brownish Elaenias, Ash-breasted Antbird and Olive-spotted Hummingbird, species that inhabit early successional forest on river islands. We wrapped up the tour with another morning at Allpahuayo Mishana, then returned to Lima for the conclusion of the tour. There are several people who took part in the success of this tour. First, we’d like to thank Nicole in our office for doing such a stellar job lining everything up for us, and Luis, our outstanding local guide, who showed us the forest he grew up in. Bret and I would also like to thank you all for joining us and making this tour so memorable. We look forward to our next adventures together!

—Micah

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

Tinamidae (Tinamous)

GREAT TINAMOU (Tinamus major) [*]

Here's a fun tour highlights video filmed by both Bret and Micah and edited by Micah.

WHITE-THROATED TINAMOU (Tinamus guttatus)

Our heat scopes led us to find two roosting birds during our night walks behind ACTS.

CINEREOUS TINAMOU (Crypturellus cinereus) [*]

Heard frequently at Allpahuayo Mishana Reserve.

LITTLE TINAMOU (Crypturellus soui) [*]

VARIEGATED TINAMOU (Crypturellus variegatus) [*]

Anhimidae (Screamers)

HORNED SCREAMER (Anhima cornuta)

Heard and seen on Isla Yanamono.

Anatidae (Ducks, Geese, and Waterfowl)

BLACK-BELLIED WHISTLING-DUCK (Dendrocygna autumnalis)

MUSCOVY DUCK (Cairina moschata)

Cracidae (Guans, Chachalacas, and Curassows)

SPECKLED CHACHALACA (Ortalis guttata)

NOCTURNAL CURASSOW (Nothocrax urumutum)

We were up on the ACTS canopy walkway having just seen Black-banded Owl, when Bret decided to do a vocal imitation of Nocturnal Curassow. A few minutes later a bird responded, so we rushed to the ground and Luis darted ahead to try to find it. Soon we were underneath the bird as it sang. What a night! The local people in this part of Peru call it el Montete.

Columbidae (Pigeons and Doves)

ROCK PIGEON (Columba livia)

PALE-VENTED PIGEON (Patagioenas cayennensis)

PLUMBEOUS PIGEON (Patagioenas plumbea)

RUDDY PIGEON (Patagioenas subvinacea)

Seen well at Explorama Lodge.

BLUE GROUND DOVE (Claravis pretiosa)

A couple flew by on Ilsa Mazan.

Field Guides Birding Tours
Black-tailed Antbird is an uncommon inhabitant of flooded forests in western Amazonia. This male with a fierce red eye was photographed by tour participant Paul Beerman.

WHITE-TIPPED DOVE (Leptotila verreauxi)

GRAY-FRONTED DOVE (Leptotila rufaxilla)

Cuculidae (Cuckoos)

GREATER ANI (Crotophaga major)

SMOOTH-BILLED ANI (Crotophaga ani)

STRIPED CUCKOO (Tapera naevia) [*]

SQUIRREL CUCKOO (Piaya cayana)

BLACK-BELLIED CUCKOO (Piaya melanogaster)

This species tends to be in forests on nutrient-poor soils. We saw one our first morning at Allpahuayo Mishana Reserve.

DARK-BILLED CUCKOO (Coccyzus melacoryphus)

Luis spotted one at Isla Yanamono.

PEARLY-BREASTED CUCKOO (Coccyzus euleri)

Unbelievable! The first record for Peru. Bret identified its voice and called it in as we were walking back from our second morning at Allpahuayo Mishana. The bird flew in and we managed to get a few photos.

Caprimulgidae (Nightjars and Allies)

BAND-TAILED NIGHTHAWK (Nyctiprogne leucopyga)

We did an afternoon boat trip on the Rio Nanay and saw a couple Band-tailed Nighthawks emerge right around dusk. This is one of the few areas in Peru that this species is known from.

Apodidae (Swifts)

WHITE-CHINNED SWIFT (Cypseloides cryptus)

We saw around 6 birds streaming high over Explornapo Lodge.

CHAPMAN'S SWIFT (Chaetura chapmani)

On our boat trip up the Quebrada Sucusari, we saw a pair of these dark-rumped swifts in a courtship flight.

SHORT-TAILED SWIFT (Chaetura brachyura)

Fairly abundant throughout the tour.

GRAY-RUMPED SWIFT (Chaetura cinereiventris)

A few seen over the Sucusari.

PALE-RUMPED SWIFT (Chaetura egregia)

We had good looks at these especially when they dipped below the horizon line and we could see the extensive pale oval shape on the rump.

Field Guides Birding Tours
If you like Puffbirds, Iquitos is THE place to visit. We saw numerous species including this Spotted Puffbird quietly sitting in the understory. Photo by tour participant Eric Vanderwerf.

LESSER SWALLOW-TAILED SWIFT (Panyptila cayennensis)

Bret spotted one at Yarina Cocha.

FORK-TAILED PALM-SWIFT (Tachornis squamata)

Common throughout the tour.

Trochilidae (Hummingbirds)

FIERY TOPAZ (Topaza pyra) [*]

WHITE-NECKED JACOBIN (Florisuga mellivora)

We saw a couple from the canopy walkway.

RUFOUS-BREASTED HERMIT (Glaucis hirsutus)

Seen a couple times along some of the varzea trails.

STRAIGHT-BILLED HERMIT (Phaethornis bourcieri)

REDDISH HERMIT (Phaethornis ruber)

BLACK-THROATED MANGO (Anthracothorax nigricollis)

We enjoyed prolonged views of this purple-tailed hummer at Mancucapa.

FORK-TAILED WOODNYMPH (Thalurania furcata)

OLIVE-SPOTTED HUMMINGBIRD (Talaphorus chlorocercus)

Finding this river island species is always a high priority. We saw one on the island in the Rio Napo.

GLITTERING-THROATED EMERALD (Chionomesa fimbriata)

Rallidae (Rails, Gallinules, and Coots)

COMMON GALLINULE (Gallinula galeata)

Scattered on the mud flats across from Ceiba Tops.

PURPLE GALLINULE (Porphyrio martinica)

Seen our first afternoon south of Iquitos.

BLACK-BANDED CRAKE (Anurolimnas fasciatus)

Thanks to the invention of the bluetooth speaker, we were able to call a pair into view at Isla Yarina.

GRAY-BREASTED CRAKE (Laterallus exilis) [*]

Field Guides Birding Tours
While we're still on the topic of puffbirds, here's one of the smallest members of the family: Brown Nunlet. This species occurs on the right bank of the Rio Napo, while Rusty-breasted Nunlet occurs on the left bank. We were lucky enough to see both! Photo by guide Micah Riegner.
Aramidae (Limpkin)

LIMPKIN (Aramus guarauna)

Recurvirostridae (Stilts and Avocets)

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

Charadriidae (Plovers and Lapwings)

COLLARED PLOVER (Charadrius collaris)

We had our best views on the island in the Rio Napo.

Jacanidae (Jacanas)

WATTLED JACANA (Jacana jacana)

Scolopacidae (Sandpipers and Allies)

SPOTTED SANDPIPER (Actitis macularius)

GREATER YELLOWLEGS (Tringa melanoleuca)

A flock zoomed past us on Isla Mazan.

Laridae (Gulls, Terns, and Skimmers)

YELLOW-BILLED TERN (Sternula superciliaris)

LARGE-BILLED TERN (Phaetusa simplex)

BLACK SKIMMER (Rynchops niger)

Anhingidae (Anhingas)

ANHINGA (Anhinga anhinga)

Phalacrocoracidae (Cormorants and Shags)

NEOTROPIC CORMORANT (Nannopterum brasilianum)

Ardeidae (Herons, Egrets, and Bitterns)

RUFESCENT TIGER-HERON (Tigrisoma lineatum)

Field Guides Birding Tours
Our group clustered on a viewing platform on the ACTS Canopy Walkway moments after a mixed feeding flock with tanagers, barbets and toucanets moved through. Our hearts were still pounding with excitement! Photo by the kind young woman who we passed that morning.

COCOI HERON (Ardea cocoi)

GREAT EGRET (Ardea alba)

It was astonishing how many there were along the banks of the Rio Napo.

SNOWY EGRET (Egretta thula)

CATTLE EGRET (Bubulcus ibis)

STRIATED HERON (Butorides striata)

AGAMI HERON (Agamia agami)

As we trundled along the trail at Isla Yanamono, Eric spotted one that shot off the ground and landed in a spot where we could scope it. Terrific views of a terrific bird!

CAPPED HERON (Pilherodius pileatus)

BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON (Nycticorax nycticorax)

These always seemed to be present around the boat dock in Iquitos.

Cathartidae (New World Vultures)

BLACK VULTURE (Coragyps atratus)

TURKEY VULTURE (Cathartes aura)

LESSER YELLOW-HEADED VULTURE (Cathartes burrovianus)

GREATER YELLOW-HEADED VULTURE (Cathartes melambrotus)

We had good views of one perched along the Quebrada Sucusari.

Accipitridae (Hawks, Eagles, and Kites)

GRAY-HEADED KITE (Leptodon cayanensis)

One flew right over our boat and landed in front of us along the Quebrada Sucusari.

BLACK-COLLARED HAWK (Busarellus nigricollis)

DOUBLE-TOOTHED KITE (Harpagus bidentatus)

A pair was constructing a nest at the Allpahuayo Mishana Reserve. When we came back at the end of the tour, it looked like they hadn't made any progress. I guess they were in no rush.

PLUMBEOUS KITE (Ictinia plumbea)

SLATE-COLORED HAWK (Buteogallus schistaceus)

GREAT BLACK HAWK (Buteogallus urubitinga) [*]

ROADSIDE HAWK (Rupornis magnirostris)

Field Guides Birding Tours
Few photos exist of Pale-billed Hornero, a tough-to-see ovenbird of flooded forests in western Amazonia. We were delighted to see a pair along the bank of the Amazon on our way to Explorama Lodge. Note the dark face and rich chestnut breast, two features to tell this species apart from Pale-legged Hornero, which sounds virtually identical. Photo by guide Micah Riegner.

SHORT-TAILED HAWK (Buteo brachyurus)

We saw a dark morph flying over Mancucapa.

Strigidae (Owls)

TROPICAL SCREECH-OWL (Megascops choliba)

On our night walk at Allpahuayo Mishana, Bret found a pair with his heat scope. One of them had a big katydid in its foot.

TAWNY-BELLIED SCREECH-OWL (TAWNY-BELLIED) (Megascops watsonii watsonii)

After scrambling around in the understory trying to get a window, Bret found the bird way up in the canopy.

CRESTED OWL (Lophostrix cristata) [*]

FERRUGINOUS PYGMY-OWL (Glaucidium brasilianum)

We saw a nesting pair at Allpahuayo Mishana.

BURROWING OWL (Athene cunicularia)

A recent arrival to the Iquitos area.

BLACK-BANDED OWL (Ciccaba huhula)

Bret called one in while we were on the canopy walkway at ACTS and I could see it fly in through the thermal scope. It landed surprisingly close to us and we had outstanding views.

Trogonidae (Trogons)

BLACK-TAILED TROGON (Trogon melanurus)

Seen near Quebrada Grande behind ACTS.

GREEN-BACKED TROGON (Trogon viridis)

AMAZONIAN TROGON (Trogon ramonianus) [*]

BLUE-CROWNED TROGON (Trogon curucui)

Seen on the trail between Explornapo and ACTS.

BLACK-THROATED TROGON (Trogon rufus) [*]

Heard near ACTS but unfortunately it didn't come in.

Momotidae (Motmots)

AMAZONIAN MOTMOT (Momotus momota) [*]

Field Guides Birding Tours
Pygmy Marmoset was recently split into two species. This "Western Pygmy Marmoset" was clinging to one of its sap trees. Photo by tour participant Eric Vanderwerf.
Alcedinidae (Kingfishers)

RINGED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle torquata)

AMAZON KINGFISHER (Chloroceryle amazona)

AMERICAN PYGMY KINGFISHER (Chloroceryle aenea)

Wow, great views at Isla Yanamono.

GREEN-AND-RUFOUS KINGFISHER (Chloroceryle inda)

Bucconidae (Puffbirds)

WHITE-NECKED PUFFBIRD (Notharchus hyperrhynchus) [*]

BROWN-BANDED PUFFBIRD (Notharchus ordii)

We had great views of one perched over the trail at Allpahuayo Mishana.

SPOTTED PUFFBIRD (Bucco tamatia)

One showed up quite close to us on the trail between Explornapo and ACTS.

COLLARED PUFFBIRD (Bucco capensis)

Bret played the recording and one shot in without vocalizing. Thankfully Eric and Kent were on it! Good team effort.

WHITE-CHESTED PUFFBIRD (Malacoptila fusca) [*]

Darn. We heard the bird from the canopy walkway but it was way down below us and wouldn't come up into view.

LANCEOLATED MONKLET (Micromonacha lanceolata)

I was really hoping we'd see this adorable little puffbird and we ended up seeing two at eye level from the canopy walkway. Few tours we offer give you the chance to see this species so well.

RUSTY-BREASTED NUNLET (Nonnula rubecula)

This is the nunlet on the left bank of the Napo. We saw one along one of the many forest trails behind ACTS.

BROWN NUNLET (Nonnula brunnea)

The nunlet on the right bank of the Napo. We saw this one at Allpahuayo Mishana Reserve. We could even see the red orbital skin, which distinguishes it from Rusty-breasted Nunlet.

BLACK-FRONTED NUNBIRD (Monasa nigrifrons)

Frequent in the flooded forest.

WHITE-FRONTED NUNBIRD (Monasa morphoeus)

Our view of a pair from the canopy walkway could not have been better!

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This Yellow-handed Titi-Monkey was high in the canopy near ACTS. We saw them on several occasions during our forest forays. Photo by guide Micah Riegner.

YELLOW-BILLED NUNBIRD (Monasa flavirostris)

After three visits to Allpahuayo Mishana Reserve, the birds finally cooperated and came in. Fantastic!

SWALLOW-WINGED PUFFBIRD (Chelidoptera tenebrosa)

Just a few seen along the banks of the Napo. Not a particularly common bird in this sector of the Amazon.

Galbulidae (Jacamars)

WHITE-EARED JACAMAR (Galbalcyrhynchus leucotis)

We had multiple encounters with this oddity along the waterways and edge habitats we visited.

YELLOW-BILLED JACAMAR (Galbula albirostris)

This understory jacamar was along the trail between ACTS and Explornapo.

WHITE-CHINNED JACAMAR (Galbula tombacea)

Seen at Isla Yarina then again along the Quebrada Sucusari.

PURPLISH JACAMAR (Galbula chalcothorax) [*]

PARADISE JACAMAR (Galbula dea)

We had numerous of great views of this charismatic canopy species from the canopy walkway. We watched one take down a giant horse fly.

Capitonidae (New World Barbets)

SCARLET-CROWNED BARBET (Capito aurovirens)

Abundant in the flooded forests. We heard them just about everywhere we went.

GILDED BARBET (Capito auratus)

We watched a pair attending to their cavity nest in a big old tree near ACTS.

Ramphastidae (Toucans)

LETTERED ARACARI (Pteroglossus inscriptus)

Quick views at Allpahuayo Mishana Reserve.

CHESTNUT-EARED ARACARI (Pteroglossus castanotis)

MANY-BANDED ARACARI (Pteroglossus pluricinctus)

We enjoyed multiple flocks of these gorgeous aracaris with electric blue orbital skin.

IVORY-BILLED ARACARI (Pteroglossus azara)

Seen our first couple days of birding the Allpahuayo Mishana Reserve.

GOLDEN-COLLARED TOUCANET (Selenidera reinwardtii)

Our visits to the ACTS canopy walkway brought us eye to eye with this colorful species.

Field Guides Birding Tours
Chestnut-belted Gnateater is one of those species with a wide distribution bound to be split someday. This particularly obliging individual was at ACTS. Photo by guide Micah Riegner.

WHITE-THROATED TOUCAN (CUVIER'S) (Ramphastos tucanus cuvieri)

CHANNEL-BILLED TOUCAN (YELLOW-RIDGED) (Ramphastos vitellinus culminatus)

Picidae (Woodpeckers)

PLAIN-BREASTED PICULET (Picumnus castelnau)

This regional specialty was on Isla Yanamono.

YELLOW-TUFTED WOODPECKER (Melanerpes cruentatus)

LITTLE WOODPECKER (Dryobates passerinus)

RED-STAINED WOODPECKER (Dryobates affinis) [*]

RED-NECKED WOODPECKER (Campephilus rubricollis) [*]

CRIMSON-CRESTED WOODPECKER (Campephilus melanoleucos)

Good views at Allpahuayo Mishana Reserve.

LINEATED WOODPECKER (Dryocopus lineatus)

SCALE-BREASTED WOODPECKER (Celeus grammicus) [*]

CREAM-COLORED WOODPECKER (Celeus flavus)

Isla Yanamono is where we had our best views.

CHESTNUT WOODPECKER (Celeus elegans)

We had repeated encounters with this species at Allpahuayo Mishana Reserve.

YELLOW-THROATED WOODPECKER (Piculus flavigula)

We called one in on one of the trails at ACTS.

Falconidae (Falcons and Caracaras)

BLACK CARACARA (Daptrius ater)

A couple of these riverine raptors flew past our boat while we were on the Napo.

RED-THROATED CARACARA (Ibycter americanus)

Seen one of the final afternoons in the forest at ACTS.

YELLOW-HEADED CARACARA (Milvago chimachima)

LAUGHING FALCON (Herpetotheres cachinnans)

BAT FALCON (Falco rufigularis)

Field Guides Birding Tours
White-eared Jacamars proved to be quite common in the flooded forest. Photo by tour participant Eric Vanderwerf.
Psittacidae (New World and African Parrots)

SAPPHIRE-RUMPED PARROTLET (Touit purpuratus) [*]

TUI PARAKEET (Brotogeris sanctithomae)

WHITE-WINGED PARAKEET (Brotogeris versicolurus)

COBALT-WINGED PARAKEET (Brotogeris cyanoptera)

The common parakeets seen almost every day of the tour.

ORANGE-CHEEKED PARROT (Pyrilia barrabandi) [*]

BLUE-HEADED PARROT (Pionus menstruus)

SHORT-TAILED PARROT (Graydidascalus brachyurus)

Seen especially well at Yanamono Island.

FESTIVE PARROT (Amazona festiva)

Yanamono Island was the only place we saw these on the tour.

YELLOW-CROWNED PARROT (Amazona ochrocephala)

There were a couple along the varzea trail at Explorama.

ORANGE-WINGED PARROT (Amazona amazonica)

RIPARIAN PARROTLET (Forpus crassirostris)

BLACK-HEADED PARROT (Pionites melanocephalus)

This handsome parrot of northern Amazonia was common around ACTS and Explornapo.

MAROON-TAILED PARAKEET (Pyrrhura melanura)

These were seen mostly in flight flying low through the canopy.

DUSKY-HEADED PARAKEET (Aratinga weddellii)

Seen regularly especially in flight over rivers.

RED-BELLIED MACAW (Orthopsittaca manilatus)

Also at Yanamono Island.

SCARLET MACAW (Ara macao) [*]

WHITE-EYED PARAKEET (Psittacara leucophthalmus)

Thamnophilidae (Typical Antbirds)

ASH-WINGED ANTWREN (Euchrepomis spodioptila) [*]

FASCIATED ANTSHRIKE (Cymbilaimus lineatus) [*]

FULVOUS ANTSHRIKE (Frederickena fulva)

This enormous antshrike eventually gave us views behind ACTS. A recent split from Undulated Antshrike south of the Amazon.

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The illuminated walkway of Explorama Lodge where Ted Parker would have walked many times. Photo by guide Bret Whitney.

GREAT ANTSHRIKE (Taraba major) [*]

BLACK-CRESTED ANTSHRIKE (Sakesphorus canadensis)

We pulled in both male and female at the mouth of the Rio Nanay.

BARRED ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus doliatus)

We saw a female at Mancocapa.

PLAIN-WINGED ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus schistaceus)

CASTELNAU'S ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus cryptoleucus)

A male gave us great looks at Isla Yarina.

PEARLY ANTSHRIKE (Megastictus margaritatus)

Not an easy bird to see. We saw a female at Allpahuayo Mishana Reserve.

BLACK BUSHBIRD (Neoctantes niger)

Yip, yip, yip! We had great views of a male through the scope at Explorama Lodge.

DUSKY-THROATED ANTSHRIKE (Thamnomanes ardesiacus ardesiacus)

A pair was in an understory flock near ACTS.

CINEREOUS ANTSHRIKE (Thamnomanes caesius)

Another feeding flock antshrike we saw along the ACTS trails.

PLAIN-THROATED ANTWREN (Isleria hauxwelli)

SPOT-WINGED ANTSHRIKE (Pygiptila stellaris)

RUFOUS-BACKED STIPPLETHROAT (Epinecrophylla haematonota)

Seen our final outing at Allpahuayo Mishana. It turned out to be the only Epinecrophylla of the tour!

PYGMY ANTWREN (Myrmotherula brachyura) [*]

MOUSTACHED ANTWREN (SHORT-BILLED) (Myrmotherula ignota obscura)

Absolutely awesome! We couldn't have asked for better views of this high canopy antwren along the varzea trail at Explorama.

AMAZONIAN STREAKED-ANTWREN (Myrmotherula multostriata)

We saw a pair along a blackwater tributary of the Napo.

WHITE-FLANKED ANTWREN (Myrmotherula axillaris)

GRAY ANTWREN (Myrmotherula menetriesii)

LEADEN ANTWREN (Myrmotherula assimilis)

Field Guides Birding Tours
Any day you see an Agami Heron is a good day. Eric Vanderwerf spotted and photographed this one while we birded Yanamono Island. Luckily the bird stuck around for us to get it in the scope!

DUGAND'S ANTWREN (Herpsilochmus dugandi)

We were all clustered on a platform of the canopy walkway when one came in super close! Best views ever!

ANCIENT ANTWREN (Herpsilochmus gentryi)

I was pleased to see how common these were at Allpahuayo Mishana Reserve. We had great views of one right over the trail. This is a species that Bret described in the early 2000's.

PERUVIAN WARBLING-ANTBIRD (Hypocnemis peruviana)

YELLOW-BROWED ANTBIRD (Hypocnemis hypoxantha)

We saw one well at Allpahuayo Mishana. It reminds me of a Townsend's Warbler.

BLACK ANTBIRD (Cercomacroides serva)

RIPARIAN ANTBIRD (Cercomacroides fuscicauda)

These were along the trail at Mancocapa.

GRAY ANTBIRD (Cercomacra cinerascens)

ASH-BREASTED ANTBIRD (Myrmoborus lugubris)

Seen at our stop on the river island in the Napo.

BLACK-FACED ANTBIRD (Myrmoborus myotherinus)

BLACK-TAILED ANTBIRD (Myrmoborus melanurus)

Wow! This scarce antbird with a fierce red eye was at Mancocapa.

BLACK-CHINNED ANTBIRD (Hypocnemoides melanopogon)

BLACK-AND-WHITE ANTBIRD (Myrmochanes hemileucus)

Another river island specialist. We saw this one on the island in the Rio Napo. The nest of this species is still undescribed.

SILVERED ANTBIRD (Sclateria naevia)

We called in a pair from our canoe trip one afternoon.

SLATE-COLORED ANTBIRD (Myrmelastes schistaceus)

Seen along the terra firme trails at ACTS.

PLUMBEOUS ANTBIRD (Myrmelastes hyperythrus)

We had excellent views of this large riverine antbird at Explorama

SPOT-WINGED ANTBIRD (Myrmelastes leucostigma)

Both male and female were seen along the creek near ACTS.

WHITE-SHOULDERED ANTBIRD (Akletos melanoceps)

Another big understory antbird. This one was common around Explorama.

SOOTY ANTBIRD (Hafferia fortis)

This enormous antbird popped right out in the open and sang in front of us. What a loud voice!

Field Guides Birding Tours
This male Black-and-white Tody-Flycatcher was in some dense bamboo near ACTS. Photo by guide Micah Riegner.

BLACK-THROATED ANTBIRD (Myrmophylax atrothorax) [*]

Heard at Mancocapa.

WHITE-PLUMED ANTBIRD (Pithys albifrons)

One of the professional ant followers. We saw one along the trail behind Explornapo.

SPOT-BACKED ANTBIRD (Hylophylax naevius)

Seen well at Quebrada Shimigai.

DOT-BACKED ANTBIRD (Hylophylax punctulatus)

These have dots on the back rather than spots. Seen too at Shimigai.

COMMON SCALE-BACKED ANTBIRD (Willisornis poecilinotus)

One showed nicely near Explornapo.

BLACK-SPOTTED BARE-EYE (Phlegopsis nigromaculata)

We had surprisingly good views of this skulker behind Explorama Lodge.

Conopophagidae (Gnateaters)

CHESTNUT-BELTED GNATEATER (Conopophaga aurita)

Fantastic views of a fantastic bird near ACTS. While Bret and I were scouting we saw it with a food item so we looked all over for a nest but could't find it. Gnateater nests are big bowls made of sticks and dead leaves suspended a few feet off the ground.

Rhinocryptidae (Tapaculos)

RUSTY-BELTED TAPACULO (Liosceles thoracicus)

Another fabulous understory bird! We watched one strut around on the forest floor and get up onto some logs near the ACTS canopy walkway.

Formicariidae (Antthrushes)

RUFOUS-CAPPED ANTTHRUSH (Formicarius colma)

These are reasonably common around ACTS. We saw them a number of times.

Furnariidae (Ovenbirds and Woodcreepers)

WHITE-CHINNED WOODCREEPER (Dendrocincla merula) [*]

PLAIN-BROWN WOODCREEPER (Dendrocincla fuliginosa)

Seen reasonably well at Allpahuayo Mishana Reserve.

WEDGE-BILLED WOODCREEPER (Glyphorynchus spirurus)

Field Guides Birding Tours
Kudos to tour participant Eric Vanderwerf for photographing the courtship flight of Chapman's Swift over the Quebrada Sucusari! This species used to be called Amazonia Swift up until a few years ago.

CINNAMON-THROATED WOODCREEPER (Dendrexetastes rufigula)

We saw a few that morning on Isla Yanamono.

LONG-BILLED WOODCREEPER (Nasica longirostris) [*]

BLACK-BANDED WOODCREEPER (Dendrocolaptes picumnus)

Seen near Explornapo.

STRIPED WOODCREEPER (Xiphorhynchus obsoletus)

Excellent views from the boat dock at Explornapo.

OCELLATED WOODCREEPER (Xiphorhynchus ocellatus)

Eventually we saw one well at Allpahuayo Mishana, but they were strangely unresponsive.

ELEGANT WOODCREEPER (Xiphorhynchus elegans)

Seen in one of the understory feeding flocks at ACTS.

BUFF-THROATED WOODCREEPER (LAFRESNAYE'S) (Xiphorhynchus guttatus guttatoides)

The most common woodcreeper of the Peruvian Amazon. Heard and seen regularly throughout the tour. We had awesome looks at one pecking at the base of a tree in its unsuccessful attempts at getting a grub from under the bark.

STRAIGHT-BILLED WOODCREEPER (Dendroplex picus)

ZIMMER'S WOODCREEPER (Dendroplex kienerii)

This varzea specialist was on Isla Yarina.

DUIDA WOODCREEPER (Lepidocolaptes duidae)

Our visit to the canopy walkway brought us eye-to-eye with this high canopy woodcreeper.

PLAIN XENOPS (Xenops minutus)

Seen especially well at Allpahuayo Mishana Reserve.

POINT-TAILED PALMCREEPER (Berlepschia rikeri)

We parked the bus at Allpahuayo Mishana Reserve and immediately heard a pair calling from the other side of the road. We went across and saw them high in a Mauritia Palm.

PALE-LEGGED HORNERO (Furnarius leucopus)

These were the horneros that were nesting outside Explorama Lodge.

PALE-BILLED HORNERO (Furnarius torridus)

Sweet! This was one of my most wanted birds of the tour. While we were waiting for the Black-tailed Antbird to respond, we called in this scarce and secretive hornero of varzea in the Western Amazon. It flew in and gave us excellent views. Overall, it's much darker than Pale-legged Hornero especially in the chest area. The two species sound pretty much identical and will respond to each other's voice.

Field Guides Birding Tours
This Dot-backed Antbird posed nicely along a creek near ACTS. One of the ways to tell it from Spot-backed Antbird is the pale gray face. Photo by guide Micah Riegner.

LESSER HORNERO (Furnarius minor)

The hornero we saw on Isla Mazan.

RUFOUS-RUMPED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Philydor erythrocercum subfulvum)

CINNAMON-RUMPED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Philydor pyrrhodes)

Seen foraging in an understory palm near ACTS.

CHESTNUT-WINGED HOOKBILL (Ancistrops strigilatus) [*]

CHESTNUT-CROWNED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Automolus rufipileatus) [*]

OLIVE-BACKED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Automolus infuscatus)

ORANGE-FRONTED PLUSHCROWN (Metopothrix aurantiaca)

This super distinctive ovenbird was on Isla Yanamono. We got great views of it with its bright orange legs and feet!

PARKER'S SPINETAIL (Cranioleuca vulpecula)

Named after the illustrious Ted Parker, this spinetail inhabits early successional vegetation on young river island.

WHITE-BELLIED SPINETAIL (Mazaria propinqua)

Seen in the young island vegetation at Isla Mazan.

PLAIN-CROWNED SPINETAIL (Synallaxis gujanensis)

DARK-BREASTED SPINETAIL (Synallaxis albigularis)

RUDDY SPINETAIL (Synallaxis rutilans)

We saw a pair at Allpahuayo Mishana on our final morning of birding.

Pipridae (Manakins)

DWARF TYRANT-MANAKIN (Tyranneutes stolzmanni)

Seen accidentally from the canopy walkway. It was perched next to the White-browed Purpletuft that was in the scope. Amazingly we didn't hear a single bird during our 12 days of forest birding. I guess they were just not breeding at that time of year.

BLUE-BACKED MANAKIN (Chiroxiphia pareola) [*]

BLUE-CROWNED MANAKIN (Lepidothrix coronata)

WHITE-BEARDED MANAKIN (Manacus manacus) [*]

WIRE-TAILED MANAKIN (Pipra filicauda)

Outstanding views of an outstanding bird! It's hard to believe they're actually real. We saw a couple males along Quebrada Grande.

Field Guides Birding Tours
Our group watching Varzea Thrush along the tail behind Explorama Lodge. Photo by guide Micah Riegner.

STRIOLATED MANAKIN (STRIOLATED) (Machaeropterus striolatus striolatus)

This tiny manakin was seen along the trail at Allpahuayo Mishana Reserve.

WHITE-CROWNED MANAKIN (Pseudopipra pipra)

GOLDEN-HEADED MANAKIN (Ceratopipra erythrocephala)

Cotingidae (Cotingas)

BLACK-NECKED RED-COTINGA (Phoenicircus nigricollis) [*]

PURPLE-THROATED FRUITCROW (Querula purpurata) [*]

PLUM-THROATED COTINGA (Cotinga maynana)

We had awesome views of an ultra-blue male perched high in a tree on a creek off the Rio Napo.

SPANGLED COTINGA (Cotinga cayana)

SCREAMING PIHA (Lipaugus vociferans)

BARE-NECKED FRUITCROW (Gymnoderus foetidus)

Tityridae (Tityras and Allies)

BLACK-TAILED TITYRA (Tityra cayana)

BLACK-CROWNED TITYRA (Tityra inquisitor)

VARZEA SCHIFFORNIS (Schiffornis major)

We had decent views of a bird at Isla Yanamono.

CINEREOUS MOURNER (Laniocera hypopyrra)

WHITE-BROWED PURPLETUFT (Iodopleura isabellae)

Bret played a recording while we were watching a bird and it puffed out its purple tufts! Holy smokes!

WHITE-WINGED BECARD (Pachyramphus polychopterus)

BLACK-CAPPED BECARD (Pachyramphus marginatus)

We watched a pair building a nest at Allpahuayo Mishana Reserve.

PINK-THROATED BECARD (Pachyramphus minor)

This robust canopy becard was seen from the canopy walkway.

Field Guides Birding Tours
Many consider Nocturnal Curassow to be the Holy Grail of Neotropical birding. We were extremely fortunate to find this one near ACTS. The entire forest seemed to reverberate as it sang right above us. Photo by guide Micah Riegner.
Oxyruncidae (Sharpbill, Royal Flycatcher, and Allies)

RUDDY-TAILED FLYCATCHER (Terenotriccus erythrurus)

Tyrannidae (Tyrant Flycatchers)

WING-BARRED PIPRITES (Piprites chloris) [*]

OCHRE-BELLIED FLYCATCHER (Mionectes oleagineus)

RINGED ANTPIPIT (Corythopis torquatus)

DOUBLE-BANDED PYGMY-TYRANT (Lophotriccus vitiosus)

ZIMMER'S TODY-TYRANT (Hemitriccus minimus) [*]

BLACK-AND-WHITE TODY-FLYCATCHER (Poecilotriccus capitalis)

One of my favorite birds of the tour! We had extended views of both male and female along one of the trails at ACTS.

SPOTTED TODY-FLYCATCHER (Todirostrum maculatum)

YELLOW-BROWED TODY-FLYCATCHER (Todirostrum chrysocrotaphum)

Best seen from the canopy walkway.

BROWNISH TWISTWING (Cnipodectes subbrunneus)

This is always a tough bird to see. After struggling, we finally got one out in the open.

OLIVACEOUS FLATBILL (Rhynchocyclus olivaceus)

YELLOW-OLIVE FLYCATCHER (RIVERINE) (Tolmomyias sulphurescens insignis)

Seen on the trail at Isla Yanamono.

ORANGE-EYED FLYCATCHER (Tolmomyias traylori)

Ted Parker was the one who discovered this flycatcher right from the boat launch at Explornapo. We saw one at Quebrada Shimigai.

YELLOW-MARGINED FLYCATCHER (Tolmomyias assimilis)

We had some come by close from the canopy walkway.

GRAY-CROWNED FLYCATCHER (Tolmomyias poliocephalus)

YELLOW-BREASTED FLYCATCHER (OLIVE-FACED) (Tolmomyias flaviventris viridiceps)

Seen well from the canopy walkway.

WHITE-LORED TYRANNULET (Ornithion inerme)

Bret called one into view from the canopy walkway and we had point blank views!

Field Guides Birding Tours
It's hard to find a bird that's more blue than Plum-throated Cotinga! We watched this male on a side channel of the Rio Napo. Photo by guide Micah Riegner.

SOUTHERN BEARDLESS-TYRANNULET (Camptostoma obsoletum) [*]

YELLOW-CROWNED TYRANNULET (Tyrannulus elatus)

FOREST ELAENIA (Myiopagis gaimardii)

We had great looks at all the Myiopagis flycatchers, which doesn't happen all that often!

GRAY ELAENIA (Myiopagis caniceps)

YELLOW-CROWNED ELAENIA (Myiopagis flavivertex)

BROWNISH ELAENIA (Elaenia pelzelni)

We had good views of this Cecropia specialist on the island in the Napo.

LARGE ELAENIA (Elaenia spectabilis)

RIVER TYRANNULET (Serpophaga hypoleuca)

Seen on Isla Mazan.

MISHANA TYRANNULET (Zimmerius villarejoi) [*]

SLENDER-FOOTED TYRANNULET (Zimmerius gracilipes) [*]

LESSER WAGTAIL-TYRANT (Stigmatura napensis)

Good views of this island specialist on Isla Mazan.

FUSCOUS FLYCATCHER (FUSCOUS) (Cnemotriccus fuscatus fuscatior)

AMAZONIAN SCRUB-FLYCATCHER (Sublegatus obscurior)

We came by a pair along the creek off the Rio Napo.

RIVERSIDE TYRANT (Knipolegus orenocensis)

It was good to get this one on Isla Mazan.

DRAB WATER TYRANT (Ochthornis littoralis)

WHITE-HEADED MARSH TYRANT (Arundinicola leucocephala)

RUFOUS-TAILED FLATBILL (Ramphotrigon ruficauda)

One flew in right over the trail at Allpahuayo Mishana Reserve.

CINNAMON ATTILA (Attila cinnamomeus)

CITRON-BELLIED ATTILA (Attila citriniventris)

Seen at Allpahuayo Mishana.

DULL-CAPPED ATTILA (Attila bolivianus)

We watched one devour a large caterpillar at Isla Yanamono.

Field Guides Birding Tours
This White-throated Tinamou was roosting on its tarsi about 15 feet off the ground. We found two of them thanks to our heat scopes. Photo by guide Micah Riegner.

BRIGHT-RUMPED ATTILA (Attila spadiceus) [*]

GRAYISH MOURNER (Rhytipterna simplex)

SWAINSON'S FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus swainsoni)

This austral migrant was at Isla Yanamono.

SHORT-CRESTED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus ferox)

GREAT KISKADEE (Pitangus sulphuratus)

BOAT-BILLED FLYCATCHER (Megarynchus pitangua)

SOCIAL FLYCATCHER (Myiozetetes similis)

GRAY-CAPPED FLYCATCHER (Myiozetetes granadensis)

Seen along the Quebrada Sucusari.

DUSKY-CHESTED FLYCATCHER (Myiozetetes luteiventris)

STREAKED FLYCATCHER (NORTHERN) (Myiodynastes maculatus maculatus)

STREAKED FLYCATCHER (SOUTHERN) (Myiodynastes maculatus solitarius)

This austral migrant was at Cocha la Loca.

CROWNED SLATY FLYCATCHER (Empidonomus aurantioatrocristatus)

We had great looks at this austral migrant from the canopy walkway. It's hard to imagine they breed in the dry Chaco.

SULPHURY FLYCATCHER (Tyrannopsis sulphurea) [*]

WHITE-THROATED KINGBIRD (Tyrannus albogularis)

Seen at Isla Mazan.

TROPICAL KINGBIRD (Tyrannus melancholicus)

Vireonidae (Vireos, Shrike-Babblers, and Erpornis)

RUFOUS-BROWED PEPPERSHRIKE (Cyclarhis gujanensis)

DUSKY-CAPPED GREENLET (Pachysylvia hypoxantha) [*]

CHIVI VIREO (Vireo chivi)

Corvidae (Crows, Jays, and Magpies)

VIOLACEOUS JAY (Cyanocorax violaceus)

Donacobiidae (Donacobius)

BLACK-CAPPED DONACOBIUS (Donacobius atricapilla)

Field Guides Birding Tours
Orange-eyed Flycatcher was discovered by Ted Parker right at the Explornapo boat dock. We saw the bird on a side creek not far from there. Photo by tour participant Eric Vanderwerf.
Hirundinidae (Swallows)

BLUE-AND-WHITE SWALLOW (Pygochelidon cyanoleuca)

WHITE-BANDED SWALLOW (Atticora fasciata)

SOUTHERN ROUGH-WINGED SWALLOW (Stelgidopteryx ruficollis)

GRAY-BREASTED MARTIN (Progne chalybea)

BROWN-CHESTED MARTIN (Progne tapera)

WHITE-WINGED SWALLOW (Tachycineta albiventer)

BARN SWALLOW (Hirundo rustica)

A couple zipped by at Isla Mazan.

Polioptilidae (Gnatcatchers)

COLLARED GNATWREN (Microbates collaris) [*]

IQUITOS GNATCATCHER (Polioptila clementsi)

One of the stars of the tour. We were lucky enough to see it on two visits to the Allpahuayo Mishana Reserve. Most groups don't see it at all! This is another bird that Bret described. It is one of the scarcest, most range-restricted birds in South America. What a privilege to see it so well!

Troglodytidae (Wrens)

SCALY-BREASTED WREN (Microcerculus marginatus)

This mouse-like wren came into view at Allpahuayo Mishana Reserve.

HOUSE WREN (Troglodytes aedon)

THRUSH-LIKE WREN (Campylorhynchus turdinus)

Seen from the board walk at Explorama Lodge.

CORAYA WREN (Pheugopedius coraya)

BUFF-BREASTED WREN (Cantorchilus leucotis)

MUSICIAN WREN (Cyphorhinus arada)

Not an easy one to see. We encountered several of these sneaky songsters along the trails at ACTS.

Turdidae (Thrushes and Allies)

HAUXWELL'S THRUSH (Turdus hauxwelli)

Seen accidentally while we were calling in the Varzea Thrush at Explorama.

Field Guides Birding Tours
This Red-crowned Titi-Monkey we saw at ACTS. We found them to be much more difficult to see than the Yellow-handed Titis. Photo by Eric Vanderwerf.

VARZEA THRUSH (Turdus sanchezorum)

Excelente! Our persistence paid off when we were face-to-face with this sought-after riverine specialty.

LAWRENCE'S THRUSH (Turdus lawrencii)

This is one of the best avian mimics in Amazonia. We watched one singing away on one of the trails behind ACTS.

BLACK-BILLED THRUSH (Turdus ignobilis)

Fringillidae (Finches, Euphonias, and Allies)

GOLDEN-BELLIED EUPHONIA (Euphonia chrysopasta)

WHITE-VENTED EUPHONIA (Euphonia minuta)

THICK-BILLED EUPHONIA (Euphonia laniirostris)

ORANGE-BELLIED EUPHONIA (Euphonia xanthogaster)

RUFOUS-BELLIED EUPHONIA (Euphonia rufiventris)

Passerellidae (New World Sparrows)

YELLOW-BROWED SPARROW (Ammodramus aurifrons)

Icteridae (Troupials and Allies)

RED-BREASTED MEADOWLARK (Leistes militaris)

RUSSET-BACKED OROPENDOLA (Psarocolius angustifrons)

CRESTED OROPENDOLA (Psarocolius decumanus)

SOLITARY BLACK CACIQUE (Cacicus solitarius)

YELLOW-RUMPED CACIQUE (Cacicus cela)

BAND-TAILED CACIQUE (Cacicus latirostris)

We would watch big flocks of these noisy caciques streamy overhead at dusk near ACTS.

RED-RUMPED CACIQUE (Cacicus haemorrhous)

One was seen from the canopy walkway.

EPAULET ORIOLE (MORICHE) (Icterus cayanensis chrysocephalus)

ORANGE-BACKED TROUPIAL (Icterus croconotus)

One sat out for a surprisingly long time at Mancocapa.

Field Guides Birding Tours
This Black-banded Owl would have been the bird of the night had it not been for the Nocturnal Curassow we saw minutes afterwards! Photo by guide Micah Riegner.

SHINY COWBIRD (Molothrus bonariensis)

GIANT COWBIRD (Molothrus oryzivorus)

VELVET-FRONTED GRACKLE (Lampropsar tanagrinus)

We encountered a flock of these on our boat trip up the Sucusari.

ORIOLE BLACKBIRD (Gymnomystax mexicanus)

YELLOW-HOODED BLACKBIRD (Chrysomus icterocephalus)

Parulidae (New World Warblers)

BUFF-RUMPED WARBLER (Myiothlypis fulvicauda)

We found this one a couple times along Quebrada Grande.

Cardinalidae (Cardinals and Allies)

AMAZONIAN GROSBEAK (Cyanoloxia rothschildii)

We saw both male and female along Quebrada Grande.

Thraupidae (Tanagers and Allies)

RED-CAPPED CARDINAL (Paroaria gularis)

MAGPIE TANAGER (Cissopis leverianus)

A couple were seen along the Quebrada Sucusari.

HOODED TANAGER (Nemosia pileata)

ORANGE-HEADED TANAGER (Thlypopsis sordida)

GRAY-HEADED TANAGER (Eucometis penicillata)

One showed up with its crest puffed out near Explorama.

FLAME-CRESTED TANAGER (Loriotus cristatus)

FULVOUS SHRIKE-TANAGER (Lanio fulvus)

SILVER-BEAKED TANAGER (Ramphocelus carbo)

MASKED CRIMSON TANAGER (Ramphocelus nigrogularis)

BLUE-GRAY TANAGER (Thraupis episcopus)

Field Guides Birding Tours
This Brown Four-eyed Opossum was walking on the ground along one of the trails near ACTS. It's a widespread but uncommon species. Photo by guide Micah Riegner.

PALM TANAGER (Thraupis palmarum)

YELLOW-BELLIED TANAGER (Ixothraupis xanthogastra)

SPOTTED TANAGER (Ixothraupis punctata)

TURQUOISE TANAGER (Tangara mexicana)

PARADISE TANAGER (Tangara chilensis)

We had great views of these from the canopy walkway.

OPAL-RUMPED TANAGER (Tangara velia)

OPAL-CROWNED TANAGER (Tangara callophrys)

Also seen from the canopy walkway.

GREEN-AND-GOLD TANAGER (Tangara schrankii)

We watched a pair constructing a nest at eye level near the trail behind ACTS. Also seen in several canopy flocks.

SWALLOW TANAGER (Tersina viridis)

These strange tanegers were seen from the canopy walkway.

WHITE-BELLIED DACNIS (Dacnis albiventris)

This scarce dacnis was in a canopy flock behind ACTS.

BLACK-FACED DACNIS (Dacnis lineata)

YELLOW-BELLIED DACNIS (Dacnis flaviventer)

BLUE DACNIS (Dacnis cayana)

SHORT-BILLED HONEYCREEPER (Cyanerpes nitidus)

Seen at Allpahuayo Mishana Reserve.

PURPLE HONEYCREEPER (Cyanerpes caeruleus)

GREEN HONEYCREEPER (Chlorophanes spiza)

GUIRA TANAGER (Hemithraupis guira)

Bret called one of these scarce tanagers into view from the trail on Isla Yanamono.

YELLOW-BACKED TANAGER (Hemithraupis flavicollis)

BICOLORED CONEBILL (Conirostrum bicolor)

Seen on the island in the Rio Napo.

PEARLY-BREASTED CONEBILL (Conirostrum margaritae)

This cecropia specialist was on the island in the Napo.

Field Guides Birding Tours
Micah, Luis and Bret (the Iquitos dream team!) after an excellent morning of birding at ACTS. These three will be back at it for next year's Iquitos tour. Photo by tour participant Kathy Lannert.

BLUE-BLACK GRASSQUIT (Volatinia jacarina)

CHESTNUT-BELLIED SEEDEATER (Sporophila castaneiventris)

BANANAQUIT (Coereba flaveola)

BUFF-THROATED SALTATOR (Saltator maximus)

BLUE-GRAY SALTATOR (Saltator coerulescens)

SLATE-COLORED GROSBEAK (Saltator grossus)

One had a territory right around ACTS.

MAMMALS

BROWN FOUR-EYED OPOSSUM (Metachirus nudicaudatus)

We found one walking on the ground on one of the trails behind ACTS.

BROWN-EARED WOOLLY OPOSSUM (Caluromys lanatus)

Seen on our night walk at Allpahuayo Mishana Reserve.

LONG-NOSED BAT (Rhynchonycteris naso)

Several seen clinging to trunks above the Quebrada Sucusari.

GREATER WHITE-LINED BAT (Saccopteryx bilineata)

Several were seen clinging to a trunk with huge buttresses at Isla Yarina across the Rio Napo from Explornapo.

GREATER BULLDOG BAT (Noctilio leporinus)

These were out at dusk over the Rio Amazonas near Iquitos.

COMMON TENT-MAKING BAT (Uroderma bilobatum)

A fruit-eating bat in the genus Dermanura was found under a tent of drooping leaves at Allpahuayo-Mishana Reserve.

WESTERN PYGMY MARMOSET (Cebuella pygmaea)

Wow! It was fabulous to see these diminutive primates clinging to the trunk at Ceiba Tops.

BLACK-MANTLE TAMARIN (Saguinus nigricollis)

The tamarins we saw in the forest around ACTS.

RED-MANTLE SADDLE-BACK TAMARIN (Saguinus fuscicollis lagonotus)

The tamarins we saw at Allpahuayo Mishana Reserve and at Explorama Lodge.

ECUADORIAN SQUIRREL MONKEY (Saimiri cassiquiarensis)

We ran into these a couple times around ACTS.

YELLOW-HANDED TITI MONKEY (Cheracebus torquatus)

We had several great views of this species along the trails behind ACTS.

Field Guides Birding Tours
Our visit to the canopy walkway brought us up close and personal with Golden-collared Toucanets like this one photographed by tour participant Eric Vanderwerf.

RED-CROWNED TITI MONKEY (Plecturocebus discolor)

These were more skittish than the Yellow-handed Titis. We saw them too around ACTS.

SOUTHERN TWO-TOED SLOTH (Choloepus didactylus)

The sloth we saw at night from the canopy walkway.

FERREIRA'S SPINY TREE-RAT (Mesomys hispidus )

We found a couple of these on our night walks behind ACTS.

YELLOW-CROWNED BRUSH-TAILED RAT (Isothrix bistriata)

One was peaking out of its tree cavity along Quebrada Grande. We also saw one at night at Allpahuayo Mishana Reserve.

AMAZON RIVER DOLPHIN (Inia geoffrensis)

We saw just a few around Iquitos.

TUCUXI (Sotalia fluviatilis)

Seen at the mouth of the Rio Nanay.

KINKAJOU (Potos flavus)

We found one on our night walk at Allpahuayo Mishana Reserve.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

Herps

Phyllomedusa bicolor. The giant green tree frog we saw at night at Allpahuayo Mishana Reserve.

Brown Sipo, Chironius fuscus. The small striped snake we saw on the trail near ACTS.

Collared Tree Runner, Plica plica. We saw one clinging to a big trunk off Sendero Julian.

Blue-tipped Tree Lizard, Plica umbra. The colorful green and orange lizard we found at night at Allpahuayo Mishana Reserve. We also saw one on Sendero Julian.

Rhinella sp. The toads we saw along several of our forest walks.

Totals for the tour: 385 bird taxa and 18 mammal taxa