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Field Guides Tour Report
Northern Peru: Endemics Galore 2012
Nov 4, 2012 to Nov 24, 2012
Richard Webster & Mitch Lysinger

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Marvelous Spatuletail at the Huembo feeders: Certainly one of the prizes of the trip, it was great to see both sexes and different ages (at least four birds) so well. (Photo by guide Richard Webster)

We were lucky at the Lomas de Lachay, where in a quick visit before our flight north we encountered several specialties (Thick-billed, Coastal, and Grayish miners, Cactus Canastero), saw some other fine birds (like Least Seedsnipe), and got a taste of the fog forest of the coastal slope.

In the north, starting at Batan Grande (Bosque de Pomac) we quickly saw Peruvian Plantcutter, but had to work for Rufous Flycatcher, also finding Cinereous Finch and enjoying a visit from the often distant Tumbes Swallows. A quick march up the beach to the mouth of the Rio Reque was good for many common waterbirds, and the thrill of a last-second Peruvian Tern flying by at close range. Our lodge at Chaparri was, as usual, infested with the Critically Endangered White-winged Guan, and we had other new birds such as Tumbes Tyrant, Tumbes Sparrow, and Sulphur-throated Finch.

Quebrada Limon was our campsite for one night, and a Scrub Nightjar after dinner was a fun find. We split in wider and shorter ranging groups the next day, both of which saw the long-term populations of White-winged Guan along with many Tumbesian species such as White-headed Brush-Finch, Gray-and-gold Warbler and Pacific Elaenia, while having divided fortunes on some others (Ecuadorian Trogon and Tumbes Hummingbird, which was especially scarce this year). Before leaving the Pacific slope, we birded for a morning on Abra Porculla, finding Piura Chat-Tyrant, and, with a morning of looking inside bushes, Henna-hooded and Rufous-necked Foliage-gleaners, Bay-crowned Brush-Finch, Black-cowled Saltator, and Ecuadorian Piculet.

Based in Jaen we started our survey of the arid habitats of the Maranon, starting with the lovely Maranon Crescentchest and continuing with such skulkers as Chichipe Spinetail (fairly easy) and Maranon Spinetail (awful), leaving the following morning with improved views of Little Inca-Finch before heading into the Eastern Andes.

Climbing above the Rio Utcubamba (Fasciated Tiger-Heron), we reached the Huembo Spatuletail Center, where Santos' feeders were fortunately hosting Spatuletails, including two adult males, along with a nice variety of other hummingbirds. The next morning we split up along the Rio Chido, with an energetic group making the hike well up the valley to find a great bird, the Pale-billed Antpitta, while the other group had a really sloooow morning in the same forest that had been busy the evening before (White-capped Tanager was nice).

Leaving those paintings behind for four nights, we went to the wilds of Abra Patricia and Owlet Lodge. Two attempts for the owlet produced muddy boots (at the least!) and an owlet that was heard and heard, but not seen. However, our days there and down the mountain to the edge of Amazonia were rich indeed, and highlights were many, ranging from Yellow-scarfed Tanagers near the lodge, the surprise of a cooperative Ash-throated Antwren, good views of Royal Sunangel and Bar-winged Wood-Wren (after several attempts) in the stunted forest, several antpittas (but fewer seen by fewer people than normal), the Little Darling Gem of a Tody-Monster, more dramatic specialties like Black-bellied and Yellow-crested tanagers and less dramatic endemics like Inca Flycatcher and Speckle-chested Piculet, and a pile of foothills specialties (Equatorial Graytail, Vermilion, Blue-browed, and Golden-eared tanagers, Ecuadorian Tyrannulet, Golden-collared Honeycreeper) and just plain great birds (Andean Cock-of-the-Rock for starters, and those Lanceolated Monklets!). And the moths at the Lodge! And the Emerald-bellied Pufflegs at the feeders! And best of all, that wonderful troop of Yellow-tailed Woolly Monkeys, perhaps the hardest to replicate find of the trip.

Heading back up the Utcubamba Valley, we saw our first Peruvian Pigeons and Black-necked Woodpeckers, with a bonus flock of Andean Parakeets. We were again lucky with the day roost of Koepcke's Screech-Owls. The Leymebamba museum was a treat, and the nearby feeders busy (Sword-billed, Rainbow Starfrontlet, Purple-throated Sunangel), while the forest up canyon had Gray-breasted Mountain-Toucan and Golden-headed Quetzal. Two mornings on Abra Barro Negro were productive, including Russet-mantled Softtail, our first species of "Rufous" Antpitta, Coppery Metaltail, and Golden-plumed Parakeets among many highland species.

We spent hours searching for Yellow-faced Parrotlet on both sides of our camp at Balsas, finding two single birds, but ending with exciting views for everyone of this missable bird. In the process we also had excellent studies of Buff-bridled Inca-Finch after finding our first Chestnut-backed Thornbirds. Moving upslope to Hacienda Limon, we saw our third inca-finch, the Gray-winged, and then continued to higher elevations and every more dramatic views. Patches of scrub were home to Jelski's Chat-Tyrant and Black-crested Tit-Tyrant as well as a bonus of Plain-tailed Warbling-Finch. Celendin had hot water showers after our night of camping, and provided a base to journey onward toward Cajamarca the next morning, finding our second type of "Rufous" Antpitta, both White-tailed and Black-billed shrike-tyrants, and the distinctive Striated Earthcreeper.

We ended our journey with two forays out from Cajamarca, the first toward San Marcos, where we saw the distinctive Great Spinetail very well (whew!) and then along the Rio Chonta, where we found a Gray-bellied Comet (whew!). With some extra time before our flight, we added our last endemic, the less than dramatic (but very local) Unicolored Tapaculo.

In addition to being a spectacular avifauna, it is a threatened one. As a rough count, we encountered 2 Critically Endangered, 12 Endangered, 21 Vulnerable, and 25 Near Threatened (seven heard-only overall) based on the publications of BirdLife International. That is our highest such total, not because we did so much better, but because BirdLife keeps adding more to the lists, believing the news from the front is not so good. We know you give to many charities, but if your trip here has developed a special interest, contributions to ECOAN's Abra Patricia and other reserves can be channeled through the American Bird Conservancy.

Our journey would not have been possible without the superb crew from Manu, special thanks to their chief and our chef, Aurelio, along with Rene, Walter, Alejandro, and Ruben.

Taxonomy follows Clements in large part. We have indicated other taxa of interest, with additional comments from Handbook of the Birds of the World (HBW) and the South American Classification Committee (S.A.C.C.), the excellent new field guide to Peru, and various journal articles. Apologies are offered to the Spanish language because we avoid the orthographic marks that do not translate well across various computer platforms and programs.

--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)


A Torrent Duck family of four was along the Rio Aguas Verdes. (Photo by guide Richard Webster)

HIGHLAND TINAMOU (Nothocercus bonapartei) – A widespread Andean bird, but one we seldom hear on this tour (not that it was close). [*]
BROWN TINAMOU (Crypturellus obsoletus castaneus) – At Abra Patricia. [*]
PALE-BROWED TINAMOU (Crypturellus transfasciatus) – In Quebrada Limon, the far-ranging group heard this Tumbesian species, and one was flushed that we are not sure anyone is counting . . . . It is considered "Near Threatened." [*]
TATAUPA TINAMOU (Crypturellus tataupa inops) – Heard well during our pre-dawn nightbirding north of Jaen.  An isolated population that sounds similar to others. [*]
ANDEAN TINAMOU (Nothoprocta pentlandii ambigua) – A few people had a quick, naked-eye view on a trail at the Lomas de Lachay.  Pete also scored, when he was looking in the right direction ("right" is defined for tinamous in terms of what works) during playback north of San Marcos.
Anatidae (Ducks, Geese, and Waterfowl)
COMB DUCK (Sarkidiornis melanotos) – One male at Repressa Tinajones; an expanding coastal population in the agricultural areas of this former desert.
TORRENT DUCK (Merganetta armata) – Several sightings in the Andes, including a close pair below Abra Patricia and a pair with two young at Aguas Verdes.
CINNAMON TEAL (Anas cyanoptera) – On the coastal slope, including hundreds at R. Tinajones.
WHITE-CHEEKED PINTAIL (Anas bahamensis) – During our bonus waterbirding north of Lima and then at R. Tinajones.
RUDDY DUCK (ANDEAN) (Oxyura jamaicensis ferruginea) – Good views near Lima before going to the airport.
Cracidae (Guans, Chachalacas, and Curassows)
SPECKLED CHACHALACA (Ortalis guttata) – One in second growth near Afluente.
ANDEAN GUAN (Penelope montagnii) – Briefly for part of the group at Owlet Lodge.
WHITE-WINGED GUAN (Penelope albipennis) – First at Chaparri, where wonderfully cooperative, and then at Quebrada Limon, where both groups saw, as Mike put it, an "uninterrupted" population. It is classified as "Critical," with a wild population under 250. [E]
WATTLED GUAN (Aburria aburri) – It is listed as "Near Threatened." [*]
SICKLE-WINGED GUAN (Chamaepetes goudotii) – Good views of three for one group along the Rio Chido.
Odontophoridae (New World Quail)
RUFOUS-BREASTED WOOD-QUAIL (Odontophorus speciosus) – We don't usually even hear this species, and this time they were close enough that we invested a little time in the chance that they would cross that gap . . . . It is listed as "Near Threatened." [*]
Podicipedidae (Grebes)
WHITE-TUFTED GREBE (Rollandia rolland chilensis) – Seen well at Ventanilla before heading to the airport.
PIED-BILLED GREBE (Podilymbus podiceps) – Several sightings: Ventanilla, the Rio Reque, R. Tinajones, and Sulluscocha.


Gathering at dawn to hike up Quebrada Limon, where we had our second encounter with White-winged Guan. (Photo by guide Richard Webster)

GREAT GREBE (Podiceps major) – One at Ventanilla and at least four (two courting) at R. Tinajones, near the northern end of its range.
Sulidae (Boobies and Gannets)
PERUVIAN BOOBY (Sula variegata) – Seen off of Lima and Puerto Eten.
Phalacrocoracidae (Cormorants and Shags)
NEOTROPIC CORMORANT (Phalacrocorax brasilianus) – Common our first three days, the days when there were waterbirds!
Pelecanidae (Pelicans)
PERUVIAN PELICAN (Pelecanus thagus) – Some nice flocks on the beach at the mouth of the Rio Reque. It is considered "Near Threatened."
Ardeidae (Herons, Egrets, and Bitterns)
FASCIATED TIGER-HERON (Tigrisoma fasciatum) – We stopped for nice looks at an adult along the Rio Utcubamba, and saw a couple more a week later when we resumed our journey up the valley. A declining tiger-heron of Andean streams.
COCOI HERON (Ardea cocoi) – Several at R. Tinajones, where they seem well established in the desert.
GREAT EGRET (Ardea alba) – Widespread in small numbers in the lowlands, including the rice fields, plus one at high elevation at Sulluscocha.
SNOWY EGRET (Egretta thula) – Ditto.
LITTLE BLUE HERON (Egretta caerulea) – In the marshes of the Rio Reque and at R. Tinajones.
CATTLE EGRET (Bubulcus ibis) – Widespread in the lowlands and several highland valleys with extensive pastures.
STRIATED HERON (Butorides striata) – A few: the Rio Reque, R. Tinajones, and near Olmos.


Peruvian Pelicans on the beach near Puerto Eten, one of the several Humboldt Current species we saw here. (Photo by guide Richard Webster)

BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON (Nycticorax nycticorax) – Seen near Olmos, heard at Quebrada Limon, and seen again near Bagua Grande.
Threskiornithidae (Ibises and Spoonbills)
PUNA IBIS (Plegadis ridgwayi) – One near Lima and five at R. Tinajones; this species has been colonizing permanent wetlands in the lowlands.
Cathartidae (New World Vultures)
BLACK VULTURE (Coragyps atratus) – Almost daily.
TURKEY VULTURE (Cathartes aura) – Ditto.
GREATER YELLOW-HEADED VULTURE (Cathartes melambrotus) – One of this lowland forest species was seen by some near Aguas Verdes.
KING VULTURE (Sarcoramphus papa) – Multiple sightings by both groups at Quebrada Limon; adults.
Pandionidae (Osprey)
OSPREY (Pandion haliaetus) – Several at R. Tinajones. [b]
Accipitridae (Hawks, Eagles, and Kites)
HOOK-BILLED KITE (Chondrohierax uncinatus) – Two in the semi-deciduous woodland north of Jaen.
PEARL KITE (Gampsonyx swainsonii) – One along a dry arroyo on the way out from Quebrada Limon; good views.
BLACK-CHESTED BUZZARD-EAGLE (Geranoaetus melanoleucus) – We started with the usual "ridiculous" number (mostly immatures) at the Lomas de Lachay, and saw them regularly on the main tour route: Quebrada Limon, Abra Porculla, and the high country of the last four days. Genetic studies suggest eventual placement in the genus Buteo.
SAVANNA HAWK (Buteogallus meridionalis) – One from the bus east of Chiclayo and one on the lakebed savanna of R. Tinajones.
HARRIS'S HAWK (Parabuteo unicinctus) – A scattered few in the arid areas of the coastal slope and Maranon Valley. a.k.a. Bay-winged Hawk.
ROADSIDE HAWK (Buteo magnirostris) – A few: near Jaen, along the Rio Chido, and above Afluente.


This is as close as we got to Andean Condor, these three figures in Codormarca; we have seen Andean Condor on this trip, but not often, King Vulture being a better prospect. (Photo by guide Richard Webster)

BROAD-WINGED HAWK (Buteo platypterus) – Seen on the wintering grounds: Aguas Verdes (adult) and above Afluente (immature) on 16 November, and above Pedro Ruiz (adult) the next day. [b]
VARIABLE HAWK (Buteo polyosoma) – Singles on the coastal slope, including the Lomas de Lachay, Chaparri, and near Olmos. In the perpetual taxonomic mystery that is Variable Hawk, these were of the "Red-backed" group.
Falconidae (Falcons and Caracaras)
MOUNTAIN CARACARA (Phalcoboenus megalopterus) – This striking raptor was first seen above Leymebamba, then nearly daily in the high country at the end of the trip.
CRESTED CARACARA (Caracara cheriway) – A few on the coastal slope.
LAUGHING FALCON (Herpetotheres cachinnans) – One that had just captured a snake was seen in the Utcubamba Valley below Pedro Ruiz.
AMERICAN KESTREL (Falco sparverius) – Never common, but widespread in open areas at all elevations.
PEREGRINE FALCON (Falco peregrinus) – Two at R. Tinajones and two sightings on Abra Barro Negro, with one or two more from a moving bus. Probably northern migrants, but local breeders are possible, too.
Rallidae (Rails, Gallinules, and Coots)
BLACKISH RAIL (Pardirallus nigricans) – One responsive bird was glimpsed by some, and all heard it amazing calls from the deep grass near Aguas Verdes.
PLUMBEOUS RAIL (Pardirallus sanguinolentus) – Heard near Puerto Eten and in the Utcubamba Valley, and seen in a wet pasture above La Encanada.
PURPLE GALLINULE (Porphyrio martinica) – A few folks saw one in the rice fields near Bagua Grande.
COMMON GALLINULE (Gallinula galeata) – Common in coastal marshes and again at Sulluscocha. (As split from Common Moorhen of the Old World).
SLATE-COLORED COOT (Fulica ardesiaca) – Also in numbers on the coastal slope and at Sulluscocha.
Burhinidae (Thick-knees)
PERUVIAN THICK-KNEE (Burhinus superciliaris) – Virginia and then Phyllis spotted pairs near R. Tinajones, and we enjoyed a couple dozen roosting below Quebrada Limon the following day.
Charadriidae (Plovers and Lapwings)
ANDEAN LAPWING (Vanellus resplendens) – Small numbers in high-elevation pastures on both sides of the Maranon.
BLACK-BELLIED PLOVER (Pluvialis squatarola) – These, along with most of our migrant shorebirds, were on the coast at Ventanilla and/or the Rio Reque. [b]
SNOWY PLOVER (PERUVIAN) (Charadrius nivosus occidentalis) – About 20 of this resident population on the beach at the Rio Reque.
SEMIPALMATED PLOVER (Charadrius semipalmatus) [b]
KILLDEER (Charadrius vociferus) – Another local resident species; at Ventanilla and the Rio Reque.
Haematopodidae (Oystercatchers)
AMERICAN OYSTERCATCHER (Haematopus palliatus) – A half dozen at the Rio Reque.
Recurvirostridae (Stilts and Avocets)
BLACK-NECKED STILT (BLACK-NECKED) (Himantopus mexicanus mexicanus) – Fairly common at wetlands on the coastal slope, including R. Tinajones.
Scolopacidae (Sandpipers and Allies)
SPOTTED SANDPIPER (Actitis macularius) – At the usual spots, and also fairly common in the interior, including along the Rios Utcubamba and Maranon (Tom at our Balsas camp) and at Sulluscocha. [b]
GREATER YELLOWLEGS (Tringa melanoleuca) – One at Ventanilla and two at R. Tinajones. [b]
WILLET (Tringa semipalmata) – One at the Rio Reque (looked like a "Western"). [b]
LESSER YELLOWLEGS (Tringa flavipes) – A half dozen at the Rio Reque. [b]
WHIMBREL (Numenius phaeopus) [b]
HUDSONIAN GODWIT (Limosa haemastica) – One at Ventanilla on 5 November; an uncommon migrant on the coastal slope. [b]
RUDDY TURNSTONE (Arenaria interpres) [b]


Peruvian Tern is a highly endangered species, and one that we generally miss, so this bird south of Chiclayo was a thrill. (Photo by guide Richard Webster)

SANDERLING (Calidris alba) [b]
SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPER (Calidris pusilla) – With declines on the breeding grounds, this "common" species is considered "Near Threatened." [b]
LEAST SANDPIPER (Calidris minutilla) – About 25 at the Rio Reque, a good count this far south. [b]
WILSON'S PHALAROPE (Phalaropus tricolor) – Two at the Rio Reque. [b]
Thinocoridae (Seedsnipes)
LEAST SEEDSNIPE (Thinocorus rumicivorus) – We enjoyed a half dozen 'scuttling' over the coastal dunes at the Lomas de Lachay.
Laridae (Gulls, Terns, and Skimmers)
ANDEAN GULL (Chroicocephalus serranus) – A flock of this lovely gull was following a plow east of Cajamarca.
GRAY-HOODED GULL (Chroicocephalus cirrocephalus) – Coastal slope wetlands, including inland at R. Tinajones.
FRANKLIN'S GULL (Leucophaeus pipixcan) – Abundant at the Rio Reque, living a Humboldt Current winter so different from the prairie pothole summers. [b]
BELCHER'S GULL (Larus belcheri) – At Ventanilla, also seen by some at Puerto Eten. A split (with Olrog's Gull) of Band-tailed Gull.
KELP GULL (Larus dominicanus) – Fairly common at the Rio Reque/Puerto Eten.
PERUVIAN TERN (Sternula lorata) – A thrilling moment, as Mitch spotted one as we were turning to leave the Rio Reque, and it ended up flying right by us. We see this species on only about a quarter of our tours. It is considered "Endangered," with a population of around 2,000 birds.
GULL-BILLED TERN (Gelochelidon nilotica) – One at the Rio Reque; scarce in coastal Peru. [b]
ELEGANT TERN (Thalasseus elegans) – Wintering birds were common at the Rio Reque. This migrant, which breeds in just a few concentrations, is considered "Near Threatened." [b]
Columbidae (Pigeons and Doves)


Bare-faced Ground-Dove is one of the short list of species that we found during our parrotlet searches above the Rio Maranon; our camp near Balsas was along the river behind the hill in the center. (Photo by guide Richard Webster)

ROCK PIGEON (Columba livia) [I]
BAND-TAILED PIGEON (Patagioenas fasciata) – Throughout the Andes, with flocks at some fruiting trees.
PERUVIAN PIGEON (Patagioenas oenops) – More than normal in the Utcubamba Valley, starting with a flock at a fruiting tree above Pedro Ruiz and another later that day, plus good views from our campsite at Balsas. Endemic to the Maranon drainage, including SE Ecuador, and listed as "Vulnerable."
PLUMBEOUS PIGEON (Patagioenas plumbea) [*]
RUDDY PIGEON (Patagioenas subvinacea) – It is now considered "Vulnerable," which came as a bit of a surprise. [*]
WEST PERUVIAN DOVE (Zenaida meloda) – Common on the Pacific slope, starting in the hotel parking lot at the Lima airport. a.k.a. Pacific Dove, as split from White-winged Dove.
EARED DOVE (Zenaida auriculata) – Small numbers in drier areas at the start and end of the trip.
ECUADORIAN GROUND-DOVE (Columbina buckleyi) – A pair was seen in flight by part of the group near Bagua Grande.
CROAKING GROUND-DOVE (Columbina cruziana) – Common in dry and disturbed areas of the Pacific and Maranon drainages.
BLUE GROUND-DOVE (Claravis pretiosa) – Heard and seen in flight several times in woodland north of Jaen.
BARE-FACED GROUND-DOVE (Metriopelia ceciliae) – This attractive dove was seen several times during our searches for parrotlets and inca-finches above Balsas.
WHITE-TIPPED DOVE (Leptotila verreauxi) – Widespread, often seen flushing from dirt roads.
WHITE-THROATED QUAIL-DOVE (Geotrygon frenata) – Heard regularly around Abra Patricia, where Joe saw one during an antpitta search.
Psittacidae (Parrots)


This portion of the Utcubamba Valley was good birding, with a surprise flock of Andean Parakeets, our first Black-necked Woodpecker, and another Maranon Thrush. (Photo by guide Richard Webster)

GOLDEN-PLUMED PARAKEET (Leptosittaca branickii) – We encounter this species on perhaps a third of our tours to Northern Peru, and those encounters are often even worse than this year! In other words, it was good! Even if they were specks in the telescope. It was interesting to observe birds inspecting potential nest cavities in a couple of trees below Abra Barro Negro. It is considered "Vulnerable," with a population under 10,000 birds.
SCARLET-FRONTED PARAKEET (Aratinga wagleri) – Flocks were seen in flight near Jaen and better looks were to be had on both sides of the river above Balsas during our Parrotlet search.
MITRED PARAKEET (Aratinga mitrata) – We started with fly-bys, but ened up with some telescope views; seen in the valley of the Rio Utcubamba, where we searched in vain (as always) for birds resembling what has been described as Hocking's Parakeet. We saw A. m. chlorogenys.
RED-MASKED PARAKEET (Aratinga erythrogenys) – We had nice looks in the striking setting of Quebrada Limon. This parakeet is considered "Near Threatened."
WHITE-EYED PARAKEET (Aratinga leucophthalma) – This was the parakeet of the wet eastern slope, seen from Abra Patricia down.
ANDEAN PARAKEET (Bolborhynchus orbygnesius) – Daphne spotted the first of what turned out to be a flock of 15 in a fruiting tree at 1,500m in the Utcubamba Valley, the second time we have had them in this low area (and one of few times overall on the tour).
PACIFIC PARROTLET (Forpus coelestis) – Common on the Pacific slope, where we had repeated good looks, with a few more in the Maranon Valley around Jaen.


Yellow-faced Parrotlet was a struggle (as usual), with a happy ending for all. (Photo by guide Richard Webster)

YELLOW-FACED PARROTLET (Forpus xanthops) – We spent as much time searching as we ever have, and managed two single birds. Both were, however, electric moments, so it was a real thrill both times. While a variation on a widespread theme, this is a lovely parrotlet. Considered "Vulnerable," the population is perhaps at most 1,000 mature individuals; interestingly, BirdLife now considers the population "Stable", partly from a decline in the pet trade. [E]
BLUE-HEADED PARROT (Pionus menstruus) – A few of this lowland species flying over the foothills of Aguas Verdes.
RED-BILLED PARROT (Pionus sordidus) – A few fly-bys at middle elevations on the east slope.
SPECKLE-FACED PARROT (WHITE-CAPPED) (Pionus tumultuosus seniloides) – Seen by one group high up the Rio Chido and again in flight, distantly, above Leymebamba.
SCALY-NAPED PARROT (Amazona mercenaria) – Daily, heading to and from roosts, at Abra Patricia, where Daphne also saw them perched from the tower.
Cuculidae (Cuckoos)
SQUIRREL CUCKOO (Piaya cayana) – A few on the east slope and near Jaen.
STRIPED CUCKOO (Tapera naevia) – Heard regularly from rain-freshened scrub. Romney spotted our first for good views near Bagua Grande, and again near San Marcos.
SMOOTH-BILLED ANI (Crotophaga ani) – Seen in the rice fields near Bagua Grande and in pastures at the base of the eastern foothills.
GROOVE-BILLED ANI (Crotophaga sulcirostris) – The default ani of the tour route, common in dry areas, up to 2600m at the end of the tour.
Strigidae (Owls)
PERUVIAN SCREECH-OWL (Megascops roboratus) – We were fortunate with this screech-owl, finding it twice, the first, M. r. pacificus, at Chaparri, and the second, M. r. roboratus, near Jaen. The two differ in size (about an inch!) and minorly in voice; they are split by some. a.k.a. West Peruvian Screech-Owl.
KOEPCKE'S SCREECH-OWL (Megascops koepckeae) – Whew! Lucky again, because outside of seeing them on a dayroost, as we did again (but far from always) in the Utcubamba Valley, we don't have an occasion to look for this bird. That they were in a eucalyptus did not detract at all from the experience! [E]
ANDEAN PYGMY-OWL (Glaucidium jardinii) – Heard distantly below Abra Barro Negro. [*]
FERRUGINOUS PYGMY-OWL (Glaucidium brasilianum) – Heard near Aguas Verdes. [*]
PERUVIAN PYGMY-OWL (Glaucidium peruanum) – The routine pygmy-owl of the tour, seen well several times (actually fewer than normal). As split from Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl.


Long-whiskered Owlet lives down there, and down there we went, hearing it very well, but not getting a view. This is the view from Owlet Lodge, and a bird-rich view it is. (Photo by guide Richard Webster)

LONG-WHISKERED OWLET (Xenoglaux loweryi) – What to say? Two attempts, heard wonderfully well, but we never closed the deal, as while the owlets were surprisingly (given the attention they get) vocal and moved around, we never had the close approach we needed to be able to spot one. Someday there will be a stakeout nest(box)? [E*]
BURROWING OWL (Athene cunicularia) – Common at the Lomas de Lachay, with a few more on the arid slopes above R. Tinajones. It is considered "Endangered."
RUFOUS-BANDED OWL (Ciccaba albitarsis) [*]
Caprimulgidae (Nightjars and Allies)
LESSER NIGHTHAWK (Chordeiles acutipennis) – A couple were seen at Quebrada Limon.
SCRUB NIGHTJAR (Caprimulgus anthonyi) – In the very dry conditions of Quebrada Limon, we were fortunate to find a 'live one,' a bird that responded very nicely, hovering at close range in the light. We also heard them in the wetter conditions near Jaen, but they did not respond in a brief attempt.
SWALLOW-TAILED NIGHTJAR (Uropsalis segmentata) – We often do better, but we still managed to hear them at length on Abra Barro Negro, saw full-tailed males high overhead twice, and quick, close females as well, overall not great, but something.
Nyctibiidae (Potoos)
COMMON POTOO (Nyctibius griseus) – North of Jaen. [*]
Apodidae (Swifts)
CHESTNUT-COLLARED SWIFT (Streptoprocne rutila) – Several encounters, generally poor, but the chestnut collars visible with one group.
WHITE-COLLARED SWIFT (Streptoprocne zonaris) – Squadrons were seen hurtling down the east slope, and another flock was seen above Balsas.
CHIMNEY SWIFT (Chaetura pelagica) – A few seen briefly by a few at the Lomas de Lachay were recent arrivals on the wintering grounds. This migrant is considered "Near Threatened." [b]
SHORT-TAILED SWIFT (Chaetura brachyura) – Seen by some folks in the eastern lowlands.
SHORT-TAILED SWIFT (TUMBES) (Chaetura brachyura ocypetes) – This subspecies, split by some as Tumbes Swift, was seen by both groups in Quebrada Limon.
GRAY-RUMPED SWIFT (Chaetura cinereiventris) – Several encounters, only OK looks, on the east slope around Afluente.
WHITE-TIPPED SWIFT (Aeronautes montivagus) – We stopped for the White-tipped Swifts, and had good looks, but the impromptu stop became a photo stop--the Utcubamba Valley is stunning.
ANDEAN SWIFT (Aeronautes andecolus) – One or two high over the Rio Chonta were hard to study well. This population is the northern end of a lengthy Andean distribution.
Trochilidae (Hummingbirds)
GREEN HERMIT (Phaethornis guy) – One hurtling bird near Afluente and one feeding at flowers at breakfast at Aguas Verdes was seen by part of the group.
TAWNY-BELLIED HERMIT (Phaethornis syrmatophorus) – Disembodied seeps and hurtling shapes in the forests below Abra Patricia. [*]
GRAY-CHINNED HERMIT (Phaethornis griseogularis) – One briefly in front of the group north of Jaen was P. g. zonura, and a couple quickly at Aguas Verdes the nominate group.
GRAY-CHINNED HERMIT (Phaethornis griseogularis porcullae) – One below Porculla Pass was caught by the crew and stuck into Richard's hand, who quickly released it after only a few had seen it because we were in the middle of an exciting and important Piura Chat-Tyrant encounter. This subspecies is visually distinctive from east slope populations, but that distinctiveness may not be important.
GREEN VIOLETEAR (Colibri thalassinus) – One at the Huembo feeders for part of the group, and one heard below Abra Barro Negro.
SPARKLING VIOLETEAR (Colibri coruscans) – Common at the Huembo and Leymebamba feeders, with a few more seen in the wild.
AMETHYST-THROATED SUNANGEL (Heliangelus amethysticollis) – This lovely bird became a yardbird for many at Owlet Lodge, visiting a succession of feeders outside the rooms. A few more were below Abra Barro Negro.


Purple-throated Sunangel is a gem, as we saw at Leymebamba; but it has become a complicated gem, with a possible split, and the magenta gorget and blue spots on the breast are more like the one that should not be in Leymebamba??? (Photo by guide Richard Webster)

PURPLE-THROATED SUNANGEL (Heliangelus viola) – The important part is that we have had great looks at this species, best at Adriana von Hagen's feeders above Leymebamba. A recent paper described a second species, Brilliant Sunangel, H. splendidus. On distribution, the bird we saw the last morning below Abra El Gavilan was this taxon. However, the paper (by A. Weller, Orn. Neo. 22: 601-614, 2011) is at best muddy about field characters, and after the tour the bird that photographed by REW above Leymebamba is not the expected one (rather, it looks like splendidus), leaving this all rather confusing.
ROYAL SUNANGEL (Heliangelus regalis) – We did well with this specialty, seeing a few, which is more than normal! As usual, they were in the more stunted forest below Abra Patricia. Recently found in southern Ecuador, it is no longer an endemic, but is certainly range-restricted, and is listed as "Endangered," with a population under 10,000.
WIRE-CRESTED THORNTAIL (Discosura popelairii) – One was seen briefly by some in the foothills. It is listed as "Near Threatened."
SPECKLED HUMMINGBIRD (Adelomyia melanogenys) – Seen well at Abra Patricia, where coming to the feeders, above Leymebamba, and below Abra El Gavilan (the rather whitish population of the western Andes).
LONG-TAILED SYLPH (Aglaiocercus kingi) – Stunning at the Owlet Lodge feeders.
GRAY-BELLIED COMET (Taphrolesbia griseiventris) – A repeat of last year in which our favorite spot was occupied by a male, which Virginia quickly spotted, and we then enjoyed. Although we did not work hard at it, we did not find another. Whew! This hummingbird is "Endangered," with a population under 1,000. [E]
BLACK-TAILED TRAINBEARER (Lesbia victoriae) – We struggled with trainbearer ID. As usual. We were satisfied with identification of Black-tailed above Leymebamba and west of Celendin on Hillstarless Hill.
GREEN-TAILED TRAINBEARER (Lesbia nuna) – Seen by some below Abra Porculla, by all in the gardens at Florida de Pomacochas, and several times again in the high country of the last week of the tour, e.g., above Hacienda Limon.
RUFOUS-CAPPED THORNBILL (Chalcostigma ruficeps) – Seen by one group on the hike up the Rio Chido.
TYRIAN METALTAIL (Metallura tyrianthina) – Seen regularly in the high country.
COPPERY METALTAIL (Metallura theresiae) – It took a little while, but we finished nicely on Abra Barro Negro, finding at least four birds, with good views of several of this distinctive and attractive metaltail. [E]
BLACK METALTAIL (Metallura phoebe) – This hummingbird was not the most stunning we saw, but was a favorite nonetheless, for its velvety darkness and memorable settings. It has a wide range in the Andes of Peru, but it is endemic. [E]


Marvelous Spatuletail is larger than a bee, but not all that much larger! The hummingbirds were bothered by the abundant bees, but still managed to spend much time at the feeders. (Photo by guide Richard Webster)

SAPPHIRE-VENTED PUFFLEG (COPPERY-NAPED) (Eriocnemis luciani catharina) – We had several encounters high on Abra Barro Negro, eventually seeing one perched. This subspecies is part of an endemic group that has sometimes been split as Coppery-naped Puffleg, although the differences seem minor to your guides.
EMERALD-BELLIED PUFFLEG (Eriocnemis alinae) – What a knockout, and the Owlet Lodge feeders are perhaps the best place on the planet to see it. And see it and see it. E. a. dybowskii. Mitch would love to know how to get it to the San Isidro feeders, but it is a rare bird in Ecuador.
MARVELOUS SPATULETAIL (Loddigesia mirabilis) – Obviously one of the highlights of the tour. We have come to count on the Huembo feeders, and once again they did not disappoint, with two adult males (one missing a spatule), a young male, and a female. We did see one in the wild for part of the group; at the least, the feeders save us much time searching. Limited to the Utcubamba Valley, it is "Endangered," with a population under 1,000. [E]
SHINING SUNBEAM (Aglaeactis cupripennis) – Several in the high country at the end of the trip, including birds feeding at the lovely Protea flowers.
BRONZY INCA (Coeligena coeligena) – Not the most dramatic hummingbird we saw, but if it showed up in your backyard (well, not Mitch's!) it would get your attention. We had excellent views at some feeders, especially at Owlet Lodge.
COLLARED INCA (Coeligena torquata) – This striking hummingbird is widespread in the Andes, but is always a show.
VIOLET-THROATED STARFRONTLET (Coeligena violifer) – One for some folks along the Rio Chido, another briefly in front of us on Abra Barro Negro.
RAINBOW STARFRONTLET (Coeligena iris) – Naked eye, this bird is eye-catching. In the binoculars perched, as at Adriana's feeders above Leymebamba, the rainbow on the crown is gorgeous, as in the photo Daphne already sent by e-mail. As with Purple-throated Sunangel, sort of a 'Andean Tumbesian' specialty.
MOUNTAIN VELVETBREAST (Lafresnaya lafresnayi) – This widespread Andean hummer was seen by one group along the Rio Chido, and then missed above Leymebamba.
SWORD-BILLED HUMMINGBIRD (Ensifera ensifera) – One for some folks along the Rio Chido; all who staked out the favored feeder above Leymebamba saw a female, and we then saw another perched below Abra Barro Negro the next day.
GREAT SAPPHIREWING (Pterophanes cyanopterus) – For part of the group who clambered up a side canyon above Celendin, a foraging female of this large species.
CHESTNUT-BREASTED CORONET (Boissonneaua matthewsii) – A couple in the wild, but the best views were at feeders, repeatedly at Huembo and Owlet Lodge, also above Leymebamba.
FAWN-BREASTED BRILLIANT (Heliodoxa rubinoides) – Widespread but uncommon, we saw a couple come to the Owlet Lodge feeders, a much easier situation than seeing this species in the wild.
VIOLET-FRONTED BRILLIANT (Heliodoxa leadbeateri) – Periodic visits by a young male to the Huembo feeders; widespread, but hard to see in the wild.


Rainbow Starfrontlet does have a rainbow, at the right angle, an angle that was available at Adriana's feeders above Leymebamba. (Photo by guide Richard Webster)

GIANT HUMMINGBIRD (Patagona gigas) – Above Hacienda Limon, we pulled away from a photo stop, and stopped again to look at one perched. This was followed by several feeding on Amaryllis on the cliffs above the Rio Chonta (repeated good views).
LONG-BILLED STARTHROAT (Heliomaster longirostris) – The far-ranging group had one up Quebrada Limon.
PURPLE-COLLARED WOODSTAR (Myrtis fanny) – There may never have been a stunning male seen, although we heard displaying birds (and saw the silhouette of a displaying male) at several places in the recently-rainy Maranon. We did see female-plumaged birds and eclipse males at several points in dry areas from the Pacific to the Maranon.
OASIS HUMMINGBIRD (Rhodopis vesper) – At the Lomas de Lachay we saw a handful; perhaps never a stunning male with gorget lit up, but some good views in general.
PERUVIAN SHEARTAIL (Thaumastura cora) – Two at the Lomas de Lachay included an eclipse male (a sheartail, but no gorget); a female at Batan Grande (we never do well with this bird on this tour; better in the Andes outside of Lima at other times).
WHITE-BELLIED WOODSTAR (Chaetocercus mulsant) – Females were seen daily at the feeders at Abra Patricia; a great sight, with that bumblebee flight style.
LITTLE WOODSTAR (Chaetocercus bombus) – We saw a female (ID definite) at Hacienda Limon. We also saw a female woodstar at the Huembo (spatuletail) feeders that has been the subject of online discussion, after being proposed as an Esmeraldas Woodstar. The online consensus while we were on the tour is that it is not Esmeraldas, although it remains problematic because its pale-tipped tail and pale buffy underparts are far from typical of Little. But with a scarce species (considered "Vulnerable" and with seasonal movements poorly known), much is often not known. If we learn something from our photos other than Little, we will let you know.
SHORT-TAILED WOODSTAR (Myrmia micrura) – One female for the short-ranging group at Quebrada Limon; easier in Ecuador, and no alternate-plumaged male ever on this tour (probably quite a seasonal beast in several respects).
FORK-TAILED WOODNYMPH (Thalurania furcata) – Multiples on our two days in the foothills of the east slope.
MANY-SPOTTED HUMMINGBIRD (Taphrospilus hypostictus) – A couple of this (undramatic) foothill specialty were seen near Aguas Verdes.
TUMBES HUMMINGBIRD (Leucippus baeri) – Perhaps our worst showing ever at Quebrada Limon, where only the far-ranging group had (only) several. Our past results have varied widely, so seasonal factors have seemed likely, but this was a tough year. No longer an endemic, but the Ecuador range is miniscule.
SPOT-THROATED HUMMINGBIRD (Leucippus taczanowskii) – Reports have it that Ecuador has grabbed this one, too, but we leave it as an "E" for the moment. We saw several at several spots, but it may have been the lowest total ever--poor breeding success recently? [E]
WHITE-BELLIED HUMMINGBIRD (Amazilia chionogaster) – Local in the Utcubamba Valley, but easily seen at the Huembo feeders and the gardens at our hotel with the art collection, with a couple more at flowering Ingas up the valley.
AMAZILIA HUMMINGBIRD (Amazilia amazilia) – Plenty on the Pacific slope (Batan Grande, Chaparri, and Quebrada Limon), one in the limited Maranon distribution (north of San Marcos).
ANDEAN EMERALD (Amazilia franciae) – A series of sightings of this 'simple' but striking species: near Jaen, Huembo feeders, near Balsas, and at Hacienda Limon.
Trogonidae (Trogons)
GOLDEN-HEADED QUETZAL (Pharomachrus auriceps) – One below Abra Patricia and another above Leymebamba, the latter perched on a fence post near the bus!
ECUADORIAN TROGON (Trogon mesurus) – In Quebrada Limon, heard by the far-ranging group, and seen by the other group. As split from Black-tailed Trogon.
Momotidae (Motmots)
WHOOPING MOTMOT (ARGENTICINCTUS) (Momotus subrufescens argenticinctus) – Seen by the far-ranging group in Quebrada Limon. As split from Blue-crowned Motmot (article by Gary Stiles in Orn. Col.).
Alcedinidae (Kingfishers)
RINGED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle torquata) – One at R. Tinajones and one in Quebrada Limon.
AMAZON KINGFISHER (Chloroceryle amazona) – Pete pointed out a couple along the Rio Utcubamba.
Bucconidae (Puffbirds)
LANCEOLATED MONKLET (Micromonacha lanceolata) – The foothills of Afluente were once again good to us with this fancy bird--two lengthy sightings.
WHITE-FACED NUNBIRD (Hapaloptila castanea) – An uncommon and local species and always a prize: One of several forays on the Mono Trail, a known but unpredictable location, produced good views for one group.
Capitonidae (New World Barbets)
GILDED BARBET (Capito auratus) [*]
VERSICOLORED BARBET (Eubucco versicolor) – One above Afluente was seen by most, but got away a little too soon. It is listed as "Near Threatened."
Ramphastidae (Toucans)
EMERALD TOUCANET (BLACK-THROATED) (Aulacorhynchus prasinus cyanolaemus) – A series of sightings along the Rio Chido and below Abra Patricia. Various splits have been proposed in Emerald Toucanet, most of which seem premature toward just plain wrong.
CHESTNUT-TIPPED TOUCANET (Aulacorhynchus derbianus) – Mike got us on this foothill species near Afluente, a welcome sighting as we had been looking and looking.
GRAY-BREASTED MOUNTAIN-TOUCAN (Andigena hypoglauca) – One group saw them up the Rio Chido, and Tom spotted a pair for all to see along the Rio Atuen above Leymebamba; also heard below Abra Barro Negro. It is considered "Near Threatened."
BLACK-MANDIBLED TOUCAN (Ramphastos ambiguus) – Heard distantly; considered "Vulnerable," this declining foothill species is seldom seen by us along the road in recent years. [*]
Picidae (Woodpeckers)
ECUADORIAN PICULET (Picumnus sclateri) – Terrific views of responsive birds of this Tumbesian species . . . after much looking below Abra Porculla.
SPECKLE-CHESTED PICULET (Picumnus steindachneri) – After several years of having to look hard on the east slope (finding them instead in the Utcubamba V.), this year we had multiples on the east slope, although often quick-moving with flocks (and always small!). It is listed as "Endangered," which seems a level too high in relation to habitat use, but underscores the limited range. [E]
YELLOW-TUFTED WOODPECKER (Melanerpes cruentatus) – One of this lowland species at our low point on the east slope.
SMOKY-BROWN WOODPECKER (Picoides fumigatus) – Good views of one below Abra Porculla. Genetic studies have transferred it to Picoides from Veniliornis.
LITTLE WOODPECKER (Veniliornis passerinus) – One near Aguas Verdes.
SCARLET-BACKED WOODPECKER (Veniliornis callonotus) – Fairly common at Batan Grande; also seen at Chaparri and near Jaen.
GOLDEN-OLIVE WOODPECKER (Colaptes rubiginosus) – The dry-country, low-elevation birds of the Pacific slope were seen at Batan Grande and Quebrada Limon, and the more typical wet-forest birds were seen below Abra Patricia.
BLACK-NECKED WOODPECKER (Colaptes atricollis) – This endemic is often a bird of cacti on our route, and our first one was just that, along the Utcubamba, with more there and around Balsas, where it was also a bird of telephone poles, with a nest hole in one below Hacienda Limon! [E]
ANDEAN FLICKER (Colaptes rupicola) – Daily, common, and very vocal at this season in the high country from Leymebamba to Cajamarca.
LINEATED WOODPECKER (Dryocopus lineatus) – Seen by Bill at Chaparri, and again in Quebrada Limon and near Afluente.
GUAYAQUIL WOODPECKER (Campephilus gayaquilensis) – Heard by the far-ranging group in Quebrada Limon. It is considered "Near Threatened." [*]
Furnariidae (Ovenbirds and Woodcreepers)
COASTAL MINER (Geositta peruviana) – Common on the sandy flats and hills of the lower Lomas de Lachay. [E]
GRAYISH MINER (Geositta maritima) – This specialty (shared with a small part of Chile) was seen well in the Lomas de Lachay; we were fortunate to stumble into a foraging flock of a species that seems to range widely at this time of year.
THICK-BILLED MINER (Geositta crassirostris) – It responded quietly, but it responded closely at the Lomas de Lachay--a fine show. [E]
STRIATED EARTHCREEPER (Geocerthia serrana) – It took some digging, and Mitch getting us back off the bus!, but we had good views above Celendin, and then saw a couple more. This earthcreeper has been moved into its own genus (from Upucerthia), one of the oldest branches on the ovenbird family tree. [E]
CREAM-WINGED CINCLODES (Cinclodes albiventris) – We had good views of several in the heavily used Puna of Abra Gran Chimu. Bar-winged Cinclodes has been split three ways, this being one.
WHITE-WINGED CINCLODES (Cinclodes atacamensis) – We saw a number, starting at our lunch spot along the Rio Chonta, of this northernmost population.
PALE-LEGGED HORNERO (PACIFIC) (Furnarius leucopus cinnamomeus) – Common on the Pacific slope, with a few more in the Maranon.
WREN-LIKE RUSHBIRD (Phleocryptes melanops) – We saw them in a reed patch near Puerto Eten, near the northern end of the coastal distribution, and again at Sulluscocha, seemingly a new (but not surprising) highland locale.
RUSTY-CROWNED TIT-SPINETAIL (Leptasthenura pileata cajabambae) – Seen regularly the last four days of the tour. This subspecies has been suggested (Ridgely and Tudor, HBW) as a split, but impresses us less. [E]
AZARA'S SPINETAIL (Synallaxis azarae) – Heard regularly in the Andes, and seen on at least two occasions at Abra Patricia.
DARK-BREASTED SPINETAIL (Synallaxis albigularis) – Responsive birds of this attractive spinetail were seen in deep grass near Aguas Verdes.
RUFOUS SPINETAIL (Synallaxis unirufa) – This widespread Andean bird was seen several times above the Rio Chido and at Abra Patricia.
MARANON SPINETAIL (Synallaxis maranonica) – Every few years we encounter a genetically defective bird that lacks the Skulker Gene, but this year was not one of those! We struggled and crawled (well, not literally) and eventually connected all who still cared with a visual. It is an attractive bird, but not that attractive. As split from Plain-crowned Spinetail. It is considered "Critically Endangered," with its limited range extending barely into Ecuador; this two-step "up-listing" based on models of Amazonian deforestation, would seem to warrant a gentle letter to BirdLife.
NECKLACED SPINETAIL (NECKLACED) (Synallaxis stictothorax maculata) – This is the Pacific form, which we saw well at Batan Grande.
NECKLACED SPINETAIL (CHINCHIPE) (Synallaxis stictothorax chinchipensis) – And the Maranon form, which we saw north of Jaen. This has been split by some, and while the moderate differences have not been studied, it seems a likely prospect to become Chinchipe Spinetail.


Great Spinetail (Photo by guide Richard Webster)

GREAT SPINETAIL (Siptornopsis hypochondriaca) – It was wonderful to find the birds still at The Spot, saving what could be a lengthy search. We had excellent looks at this distinctive species, although it turns out that it is not distinctive at the generic level, instead fitting into Synallaxis next to the Necklaced. It is considered "Vulnerable," although the BirdLife account can list only four sites, and it seems one of the most threatened species on our route. [E]
ASH-BROWED SPINETAIL (Cranioleuca curtata) – Heard a couple of times, and then a responsive bird was seen with one foothill flock. It is now listed as "Vulnerable," one of a number of foothill species that have had the threat level increased recently.
LINE-CHEEKED SPINETAIL (Cranioleuca antisiensis) – Good views after a couple of misses in the remnant habitat below Abra Porculla.
BARON'S SPINETAIL (Cranioleuca baroni) – After first hearing it, we then saw it where we were expecting the Softtails to be, and it became apparent (slowly to the leaders!) that the Baron's had taken over. We saw them several more times along the way. As split in this list and some others from Baron's, but the split remains complicated and not thoroughly studied (HBW, SACC). [E]
RUSSET-MANTLED SOFTTAIL (Thripophaga berlepschi) – The hikers had the first sighting up the Rio Chido, and we then worked on them on Abra Barro Negro, having to struggle before having a wonderful close-range encounter, followed by a nest the next day. Long thought probably not to belong in Thripophaga, and sounding most like a Cranioleuca, it is indeed a Cranioleuca, but still a surprise: It is an Andean representative of the Rusty-backed/Parker's group! It is considered "Vulnerable" with a population under 10,000. [E]
MANY-STRIPED CANASTERO (Asthenes flammulata) – Seen on Abra Barro Negro and again west of Celendin.
STREAK-THROATED CANASTERO (Asthenes humilis) – We had a couple foraging in the open in the pasture-puna of Abra Gran Chimu.
WHITE-CHINNED THISTLETAIL (Asthenes fuliginosa peruviana) – With time, good views on Abra Barro Negro. The two southern subspecies of White-chinned are separate from the northern by the range of Mouse-colored, a taxonomic puzzle for which we have no easy answer.
CACTUS CANASTERO (Pseudasthenes cactorum) – This year the search in the Lomas de Lachay was short (although we still had to hike up the canyon), as we found birds in the first cactus habitat we tried. A nice encounter. [E]
RUFOUS-FRONTED THORNBIRD (RUFOUS-FRONTED) (Phacellodomus rufifrons peruvianus) – Seen well north of Jaen and again near Bagua Grande, and many of their stick nests were seen along the way. This subspecies is disjunct from several other isolates.
CHESTNUT-BACKED THORNBIRD (Phacellodomus dorsalis) – Our first ones were responsive, but sneaky-quiet; good views above Balsas. The next day we saw more in the thickets of Hacienda Limon. This large thornbird is considered "Vulnerable." [E]
EQUATORIAL GRAYTAIL (Xenerpestes singularis) – After striking out with several promising flocks (and missing it last year), optimism was in short supply, but we found a hot flock near Afluente and had good views, although in the canopy, of a responsive bird. It is considered Near-Threatened.
PEARLED TREERUNNER (Margarornis squamiger) – Seen with several flocks at Abra Patricia and again on Abra Barro Negro.
STREAKED TUFTEDCHEEK (Pseudocolaptes boissonneautii) – Seen with a couple of flocks at Abra Patricia.
MONTANE FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Anabacerthia striaticollis) – Heard with several flocks and seen with at least one near Afluente.
RUFOUS-NECKED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Syndactyla ruficollis) – Difficult on this route, we were fortunate to pull one out for good looks (and hear another one) below Abra Porculla. This Tumbesian species is considered "Vulnerable."
BUFF-FRONTED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Philydor rufum) – Good views with one mixed flock near Afluente.
STRIPED TREEHUNTER (Thripadectes holostictus) – Both groups had good views at Abra Patricia.
HENNA-HOODED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Hylocryptus erythrocephalus) – This attractive bird was seen by the far-ranging group at Quebrada Limon and by all the next day below Abra Porculla; it can be a difficult skulker. Another Tumbesian endemic foliage-gleaner, it too is considered "Vulnerable," with a population under 10,000.
STREAKED XENOPS (Xenops rutilans) – Regular with east-slope flocks.
TYRANNINE WOODCREEPER (Dendrocincla tyrannina) – Seen quickly by one group at Abra Patricia, and longer by the other.
OLIVACEOUS WOODCREEPER (Sittasomus griseicapillus) – Seen by one group in Quebrada Limon, and by all in the eastern foothills at Aguas Verdes.
STRONG-BILLED WOODCREEPER (Xiphocolaptes promeropirhynchus) – Great views at Abra Patricia.
OLIVE-BACKED WOODCREEPER (Xiphorhynchus triangularis) – With several flocks below Abra Patricia.
STREAK-HEADED WOODCREEPER (Lepidocolaptes souleyetii) – One at Chaparri and multiples at Quebrada Limon.
MONTANE WOODCREEPER (Lepidocolaptes lacrymiger) – A few above the Rio Chido and at Abra Patricia.
Thamnophilidae (Typical Antbirds)
RUFOUS-CAPPED ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus ruficapillus jaczewskii) – Seen by one group at Huembo and heard (glimpsed by a few?) on Abra Barro Negro. This northern subspecies is an isolate; splits not expected.
CHAPMAN'S ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus zarumae) – Several encounters were enjoyed on Abra Porculla. This Tumbesian species was split from Barred, turning out not even to be its closest relative.
LINED ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus tenuepunctatus) – Seen twice, with more heard, near Afluente. It is listed as "Vulnerable."
COLLARED ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus bernardi) – Common on the Pacific slope, where seen well on several days, including rather tame birds at Chaparri.
COLLARED ANTSHRIKE (SHUMBAE) (Thamnophilus bernardi shumbae) – The Maranon population; heard at length, but unresponsive near Bagua Grande. [*]
NORTHERN SLATY-ANTSHRIKE (MARANON) (Thamnophilus punctatus leucogaster) – An isolated population, variously lumped, split, and re-lumped with some other populations (Maranon/Huallaga, now combined with those of NE South America). With some patience we saw several north of Jaen.
VARIABLE ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus caerulescens subandinus) – One group taking a second look at the Huembo feeders watched a pair move through the woods behind the feeders. Like Rufous-capped, a northern isolate of a widespread species, splits not expected.
RUSSET ANTSHRIKE (Thamnistes anabatinus) – There was much else going on at the time, but one bird taped in nicely near Afluente, "freezing" long enough for telescope views!
PLAIN ANTVIREO (Dysithamnus mentalis) – Seen by most, if not all, near Aguas Verdes.
SLATY ANTWREN (Myrmotherula schisticolor) – A pair was seen by most in a flock near Afluente.
ASH-THROATED ANTWREN (Herpsilochmus parkeri) – Only one or two territories are along the road, and after three plus years of at best hearing it, we had concluded that they were inured to birders. Well, it may be temporary, but we had a live one right in the same area as always, and it responded nicely, circling us and providing (for a canopy antwren) good views. Beyond being a real rarity ("Endangered"), with a population under 1,000, we were probably all becoming reconciled to missing it, so it was a real pick-me-up moment. [E]
YELLOW-BREASTED ANTWREN (Herpsilochmus axillaris) – We had two encounters with this more widespread Herpsilochmus in canopy flocks around Afluente. Although more widespread, foothill habitats are especially threatened, and it is listed as "Vulnerable," a recent "upgrade."
LONG-TAILED ANTBIRD (Drymophila caudata) – This attractive antbird was seen at close range in bamboo at Abra Patricia. This species has recently been split (Isler et al., Condor 114: 571, 2012) into four species; we saw the widespread (central Colombia south to Bolivia) D. striaticeps, Streak-headed Antbird.
RUFOUS-RUMPED ANTWREN (Terenura callinota) – One responsive bird fluffed up its rufous rump and even paused long enough for some telescope views as it sang; with a canopy flock above Afluente.
BLACKISH ANTBIRD (Cercomacra nigrescens) – Some folks got on a female in the roadside shrubbery (nothing to do with playback!); others were heard near Afluente.
WHITE-BACKED FIRE-EYE (Pyriglena leuconota) – Many, but probably not all, got on a responsive-but-skulking bird near Afluente; heard by all.
Formicariidae (Antthrushes)
BARRED ANTTHRUSH (Chamaeza mollissima) – Heard by both groups, but no visuals. [*]
Grallariidae (Antpittas)
UNDULATED ANTPITTA (Grallaria squamigera) – Heard distantly at Abra Barro Negro. Unfortunately, Dorita was no longer around, or accepting worms, at Abra Patricia. [*]
CHESTNUT-CROWNED ANTPITTA (Grallaria ruficapilla) – Heard on six days, but several attempts produced at most a glimpse for Phyllis; a 'heard only' for the rest of us.
PALE-BILLED ANTPITTA (Grallaria carrikeri) – Thanks to a new road, access is now merely a substantial hike, which was attempted by half the group. Attempted with success, thanks to Santos. A great bird. [E]
RUSTY-TINGED ANTPITTA (Grallaria przewalskii) – Heard by both groups, and for one group a close encounter, but only seen briefly by Virginia. It is considered "Vulnerable." [E]


Rufous Antpitta was one of several specialties we saw on our ascent of Abra Barro Negro; here the group scans the forest for Sapphire-vented Puffleg and White-chinned Thisteltail. (Photo by guide Richard Webster)

RUFOUS ANTPITTA (Grallaria rufula cajamarcae) – Overall, we did less well with antpittas than average (simply not closing the deal with several at Owlet Lodge). However, there were some fine successes, including with this bird above Celendin. After finding our recent The Spot half leveled, another patch produced a stellar performer. (And we showed it to you in native vegetation, rather than in the pines and eucalyptus in which we have often seen it!) Rufous Antpitta has been the subject of a multi-decade investigation by a team, apparently coming close to completion, and many, many splits are likely, this being one of them. It is endemic.
RUFOUS ANTPITTA (Grallaria rufula obscura) – Another success after several attempt, and it was a team effort as Mike and others re-located it several times below Abra Barro Negro. Excellent views, including in the telescope for some. Another split is expected for this one, also endemic to Peru.
CHESTNUT ANTPITTA (Grallaria blakei) – Several attempts, but only Wim was looking the right way at the right moment. It is considered "Near-Threatened." [E]
OCHRE-FRONTED ANTPITTA (Grallaricula ochraceifrons) – Heard a couple of days at Abra Patricia, but no visuals. It is considered "Endangered." [E*]
RUSTY-BREASTED ANTPITTA (TUMBES) (Grallaricula ferrugineipectus leymebambae) – Also heard on a couple of days, but no visuals. [*]
Conopophagidae (Gnateaters)
CHESTNUT-CROWNED GNATEATER (Conopophaga castaneiceps) – We need a forest trail at the right elevation. [*]
Rhinocryptidae (Tapaculos)
ASH-COLORED TAPACULO (Myornis senilis) – Brief views for a few of the hikers up the Rio Chido.
BLACKISH TAPACULO (PERUVIAN) (Scytalopus latrans intermedius) – We didn't do well for quite a while, but then did connect with one. Dynamic voice, average gray appearance! This form is a likely future split.
UNICOLORED TAPACULO (Scytalopus unicolor) – We had bonus time around Cajamarca because of flight schedules, and managed to squeeze in a visit to a locale for Unicolored Tapaculo, once a name that spanned the Andes, but as split in detailed studies, now a restricted-range species in Peru. We benefited from a spontaneously calling bird, which we then saw as it responded well. If you want multicolored tapaculos, try our Chile tour! [E]
TRILLING TAPACULO (Scytalopus parvirostris) – Several attempts; a glimpse or two, mostly heard.
RUFOUS-VENTED TAPACULO (Scytalopus femoralis) – We worked on this in groups, and both groups had good views in the forests around Abra Patricia. As split some 15 years ago, the nominate Rufous-vented became a Peruvian endemic. [E]
WHITE-CROWNED TAPACULO (Scytalopus atratus atratus) – A cooperative bird went back and forth, crossing several gaps that provided views below Abra Patricia. "White-crowned" is a split from Rufous-vented, and has in turn been split into Bolivian and White-crowned. We joked about "Middle" White-crowned Tapaculo; more seriously, White-crowned might be split further, so keep track of where you hear and see them.
Melanopareiidae (Crescentchests)
MARANON CRESCENTCHEST (Melanopareia maranonica) – The crescentchests were multicolored tapaculos, further the suspicion that they weren't tapaculos. Genetic studies have shown that they are distantly related, but not tapaculos, and so the four species are now in their own family. It took patience, but we obtained good views near Jaen, the second crescentchest of the trip. It is considered Near Threatened, more for the small range than its inability to handle habitat modification (= goats).
ELEGANT CRESCENTCHEST (Melanopareia elegans) – Our first crescentchest, a gem like all of them, seen well at Chaparri by most, supplemented or improved for the rest in Quebrada Limon, and embellished below Abra Porculla. Always skulking, but not mega-furtive. Both of these crescentchests are broadly Tumbesian, this one widely shared with Ecuador, Maranon narrowly so.
Tyrannidae (Tyrant Flycatchers)
SOUTHERN BEARDLESS-TYRANNULET (Camptostoma obsoletum) – And who was the First Responder of Them All? This or the gnatcatchers? It doesn't matter, because these first responders did not need to administer CPR, just chase off the (fake) Pygmy-Owl. We really learned this tyrannulet! We saw the subspecies griseum and maranonicum, part of a Tumbesian group that is likely to be split (Rheindt et al., Emu 108:261) under [long story omitted] the name sclateri. In any case, keep track of where you see this species.
WHITE-BANDED TYRANNULET (Mecocerculus stictopterus) – A couple on Abra Barro Negro, a couple more near Cajamarca.
WHITE-THROATED TYRANNULET (Mecocerculus leucophrys) – The puffy-throated tyrannulet, a common and widespread species that is actually uncommon on this tour route, seen on Abra Barro Negro and again in the western Andes.
SULPHUR-BELLIED TYRANNULET (Mecocerculus minor) – From Abra Patricia half way down the east slope, several encounters with this 'San Isidro' bird.


Black-crested Tit-Tyrant and Jelski's Chat-Tyrant were ahead of us as we climbed above Balsas and Hacienda Limon. (Photo by guide Richard Webster)

BLACK-CRESTED TIT-TYRANT (Anairetes nigrocristatus) – Always a crowd-pleaser, our shared good experience coming above Hacienda Limon, with subsequent sightings along the rest of the way. a.k.a. Maranon Tit-Tyrant.
YELLOW-BILLED TIT-TYRANT (Anairetes flavirostris) – We connected with a couple along the Rio Chonta near Cajamarca, toward the northern end of their long range.
TUFTED TIT-TYRANT (Anairetes parulus) – Several good views in the high country on both sides of the Maranon.
MOUSE-COLORED TYRANNULET (TUMBES) (Phaeomyias murina tumbezana) – Common in dry habitats, mostly early in the tour, but also near the end around Hacienda Limon. The Emu paper cited just above under the Beardless First Responder also treated this group and supported previous suggestions (e.g., Robert Ridgely) that the tumbezana group (the subspecific name we used on the checklist for future ease, although technically we saw inflava and maranonicum) is distinct from other groups around South America.
PACIFIC ELAENIA (Myiopagis subplacens) – Rather vocal in Quebrada Limon, despite it being the dry season; seen well by both groups.
YELLOW-BELLIED ELAENIA (Elaenia flavogaster) – We ended up concluding the elaenias we saw in the Maranon drainage were this species. Which leaves us with our perpetual problem: Where are the Lessers that are well represented in collections? We are not doing something right!
WHITE-CRESTED ELAENIA (Elaenia albiceps) – Heard, and perhaps seen, above Hacienda Limon, and seen our last morning near Cajamarca.
MOTTLE-BACKED ELAENIA (Elaenia gigas) – Seen in the open areas near Aguas Verdes and again in the coffee plantation above Pedro Ruiz.
SIERRAN ELAENIA (Elaenia pallatangae) – Fairly common in disturbed areas of the wet eastern Andes, extending west toward Cajamarca.
TORRENT TYRANNULET (Serpophaga cinerea) – Seen along the Rio Chido, and again along a couple of rivers in the Cajamarca area.
STREAK-NECKED FLYCATCHER (Mionectes striaticollis) – Several on the east slope below Abra Patricia.
OLIVE-STRIPED FLYCATCHER (Mionectes olivaceus) – The lower elevation replacement of the preceding species; seen near Afluente.
SLATY-CAPPED FLYCATCHER (Leptopogon superciliaris) – Several of this widespread bird around Afluente.
INCA FLYCATCHER (Leptopogon taczanowskii) – Widespread on the east slope in Peru, but still an endemic, and always a good (and not always easy) find. This year we kept stumbling into them below Abra Patricia, with several good looks. It is listed as "Near Threatened." [E]
MARBLE-FACED BRISTLE-TYRANT (Phylloscartes ophthalmicus) – A couple with a flock near Afluente.
MOTTLE-CHEEKED TYRANNULET (Phylloscartes ventralis) – Several encounters, from Garcia up to Abra Patricia.
ECUADORIAN TYRANNULET (Phylloscartes gualaquizae) – This local foothill specialty was seen well near Afluente, one of the few places in Peru where it occurs, and heard again on another visit. It is listed as "Near Threatened."
BLACK-CAPPED TYRANNULET (Phyllomyias nigrocapillus) – One with a small flock at Garcia.
ASHY-HEADED TYRANNULET (Phyllomyias cinereiceps) [*]
TAWNY-RUMPED TYRANNULET (Phyllomyias uropygialis) – One below Abra Barro Negro provided good views, although there were distractions right and left!
PLUMBEOUS-CROWNED TYRANNULET (Phyllomyias plumbeiceps) – A responsive bird was seen in the canopy above Afluente, and another was with a flock there the next day.
GOLDEN-FACED TYRANNULET (Zimmerius chrysops) – Common by voice, with regular sightings. The population in the Abra Patricia region is visually typical of Golden-faced but sounds more like the sometimes split Peruvian Tyrannulet of Central Peru; the entire Golden-faced complex is a confusing jumble of voices and plumages that remains to be studied thoroughly--keep track of where you see them.
ORNATE FLYCATCHER (Myiotriccus ornatus) – One for most of the group below Garcia.
MANY-COLORED RUSH TYRANT (Tachuris rubrigastra) – Several were seen well in coastal marshes near Puerto Eten (Rio Reque).
RUFOUS-HEADED PYGMY-TYRANT (Pseudotriccus ruficeps) – Both groups saw this species during our morning on the Abra Patricia trails.
TAWNY-CROWNED PYGMY-TYRANT (Euscarthmus meloryphus) – Common by voice (the damn fake parrotlet) and regularly seen in arid habitats. E. m. fulviceps.
GRAY-AND-WHITE TYRANNULET (Pseudelaenia leucospodia) – A tyrannulet with an easy field mark! We saw several daily in the dry country of the Pacific slope; a Tumbesian species.
SCALE-CRESTED PYGMY-TYRANT (Lophotriccus pileatus) – Several seen around Afluente.
BLACK-THROATED TODY-TYRANT (Hemitriccus granadensis) – Seen by both groups at Abra Patricia.
JOHNSON'S TODY-FLYCATCHER (Poecilotriccus luluae) – This recently-described species was seen several times in second growth at Abra Patricia. a.k.a. Lulu's Tody-Flycatcher. f.k.a Little Darling Gem of a Tody-Tyrant, which it certainly is. It is listed as "Endangered," with a population under 7,000; while it has a small range, it does do well in disturbed habitats. [E]
COMMON TODY-FLYCATCHER (Todirostrum cinereum) – A couple--near Bagua Grande and in the Utcubamba Valley.
YELLOW-OLIVE FLYCATCHER (Tolmomyias sulphurescens) – For the far-ranging group in Quebrada Limon (T. s. aequatorialis) and for all near Afluente (T. s. peruvianus). Splits are likely in this species; keep track of where you see them.
CINNAMON FLYCATCHER (Pyrrhomyias cinnamomeus) – Several pairs were seen along the road from Abra Patricia to Garcia.
OLIVE-CHESTED FLYCATCHER (Myiophobus cryptoxanthus) – A couple of this dull bird of disturbed areas near Afluente.
BRAN-COLORED FLYCATCHER (Myiophobus fasciatus) – Seen in Quebrada Limon, heard near Jaen, and seen again at Hacienda Limon. M. f. crypterythrus.
GRAY-BREASTED FLYCATCHER (Lathrotriccus griseipectus) – Heard by one group in Quebrada Limon, seen above Balsas, an recent extension in its known range. Considered "Vulnerable," this is a scarce species of Tumbesia.
OLIVE-SIDED FLYCATCHER (Contopus cooperi) – Singles in different areas near Afluente on 14 and 16 November; a regular wintering species in this area. It is listed as "Near Threatened." [b]
SMOKE-COLORED PEWEE (Contopus fumigatus) – A few, including from the viewpoint at Owlet Lodge.
WESTERN WOOD-PEWEE (Contopus sordidulus) – Several on the east slope around Afluente. [b]
TROPICAL PEWEE (TUMBES) (Contopus cinereus punensis) – A handful in dry woodland of the Pacific Slope and the Maranon Valley. Note the subspecies: Splits have been proposed in this species.
ALDER FLYCATCHER (Empidonax alnorum) – Several near Jaen (much calling, 10 November), and again near Bagua Grande (11 November) and Aguas Verdes (16 November). [b]
BLACK PHOEBE (Sayornis nigricans) – Several along Andean rivers such as Utcubamba.
VERMILION FLYCATCHER (Pyrocephalus rubinus) – Fairly common daily in dry areas, including P. r. ardens of the Maranon Valley with the especially bright female plumage.
RUFOUS-TAILED TYRANT (Knipolegus poecilurus) – Widespread but very local in the Andes; this is a good route for this species, which we saw at Garcia and Afluente.
RUFOUS-NAPED GROUND-TYRANT (Muscisaxicola rufivertex) – One above Hacienda Limon seemed to be doing a flight display. Another at Sulluscocha provided telescope views.
BLACK-BILLED SHRIKE-TYRANT (Agriornis montanus) – Several west of Celendin and one at Sulluscocha.


White-tailed Shrike-Tyrant is one of the species we saw near Hillstarless Hill west of Celendin; there were probably some hillstars somewhere out there, but they were not at our site, where there were few flowers. (Photo by guide Richard Webster)

WHITE-TAILED SHRIKE-TYRANT (Agriornis albicauda) – We saw a distant bird east of Celendin, and then the next day to the west we found three, with good looks at the subtle field marks. This species has contracted in range, and is now considered "Vulnerable"; this is a good route for this species.
STREAK-THROATED BUSH-TYRANT (Myiotheretes striaticollis) – One for one group working down the Rio Chido; heard at Florida.
RUFOUS-WEBBED BUSH-TYRANT (Polioxolmis rufipennis) – Fairly common in the high country from Celendin to Cajamarca; near the northern end of its range.
TUMBES TYRANT (Tumbezia salvini) – No longer a Peruvian endemic (barely into Ecuador), this distinctive flycatcher was seen by all at Chaparri and by the short-ranging group at Quebrada Limon. It is listed as "Near Threatened."
JELSKI'S CHAT-TYRANT (Ochthoeca jelskii) – One of the "bad" chat-tyrants (a skulker), we had good views of a responsive bird that Virginia spotted above Hacienda Limon. A limited distribution in southern Ecuador and Peru. Nice!
SLATY-BACKED CHAT-TYRANT (MAROON-BELTED) (Ochthoeca cinnamomeiventris angustifasciata) – Seen along the Rio Chido.
RUFOUS-BREASTED CHAT-TYRANT (Ochthoeca rufipectoralis) – This widespread chat-tyrant was seen by those who hiked up the Rio Chido and again by some along the road over Abra Barro Negro.
BROWN-BACKED CHAT-TYRANT (Ochthoeca fumicolor) – A good chat-tyrant, seen well several times on Abra Barro Negro.
PIURA CHAT-TYRANT (Ochthoeca piurae) – One of those bad chat-tyrants, but we worked at seeing it well, and it was seen by all below Abra Porculla. It is considered "Near Threatened." [E]
WHITE-BROWED CHAT-TYRANT (Ochthoeca leucophrys) – Another "good" chat-tyrant, seen in scrubby areas of the Cajamarca region.
SHORT-TAILED FIELD TYRANT (Muscigralla brevicauda) – Widespread in arid areas, but always a chance encounter, this one coming near Repressa Tinajones. Good views.
RUFOUS FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus semirufus) – Thinly distributed, and sometimes a bit of a challenge, as with this year, when we finally found a couple at Batan Grande. Closely related to Myiarchus, it could also be split as a monotypic genus, Muscifur. It is classified as "Endangered," with a population of under 7,000 birds. [E]
DUSKY-CAPPED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus tuberculifer atriceps) – Heard below Abra Barro Negro, seen by some near La Encanada.


Evening at camp in Balsas, and time for the list with beer and wine. (Photo by guide Richard Webster)

SOOTY-CROWNED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus phaeocephalus phaeocephalus) – One at Chaparri and several in Quebrada Limon; this is the Pacific subspecies of this Tumbesian species.
SOOTY-CROWNED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus phaeocephalus interior) – And the Maranon subspecies was seen north of Jaen.
PALE-EDGED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus cephalotes) – This montane Myiarchus was first seen along the Rio Chido and again several times around Owlet Lodge.
BROWN-CRESTED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus tyrannulus) – A huge range from the U.S. to South America, but very local in Peru. We saw one of the few resident populations in Peru in desert near Bagua Grande.
GREAT KISKADEE (Pitangus sulphuratus) – A couple in the rice fields near Bagua Grande and in pastures near Aguas Verdes.
BOAT-BILLED FLYCATCHER (Megarynchus pitangua) [*]
SOCIAL FLYCATCHER (Myiozetetes similis) – In coffee plantations above Pedro Ruiz.
BAIRD'S FLYCATCHER (Myiodynastes bairdii) – This striking Tumbesian endemic was seen at Batan Grande, Chaparri, and Quebrada Limon.
PIRATIC FLYCATCHER (Legatus leucophaius) – Seen and heard in the plantations above Pedro Ruiz.
TROPICAL KINGBIRD (Tyrannus melancholicus) – Widespread in the lowlands, extending upslope in cleared areas.
Cotingidae (Cotingas)
GREEN-AND-BLACK FRUITEATER (Pipreola riefferii) – Daily at Abra Patricia, but typically a little shy, requiring some patience.
BARRED FRUITEATER (Pipreola arcuata) [*]
PERUVIAN PLANTCUTTER (Phytotoma raimondii) – It was not too hard this year at Batan Grande, with several seen and another heard. Plantcutters are no longer a separate family, and are now part of the cotingas. This species is considered "Endangered," with a population under 1,000 because of the decimation of Prosopis woodland. [E]
RED-CRESTED COTINGA (Ampelion rubrocristatus) – One for one group up the Rio Chido, another for some folks on Abra Barro Negro, and a third above La Encanada.
CHESTNUT-CRESTED COTINGA (Ampelion rufaxilla) – This uncommon and somewhat local forest cotinga is an irregular treasure on this tour. Our first evening at Abra Patricia produced an exciting encounter with at least three, with telescope views.
ANDEAN COCK-OF-THE-ROCK (Rupicola peruvianus) – Each visit to the foothills produced several sightings, often just flying across the road, but also perched birds several times.
Pipridae (Manakins)
WING-BARRED PIPRITES (Piprites chloris) – We had good views of a responsive bird near Afluente. An odd bird, still something of a taxonomic puzzle currently placed in the manakins or as incertae sedis; the latest genetic study placed it in the flycatchers near the flatbills.
Tityridae (Tityras and Allies)
MASKED TITYRA (Tityra semifasciata) – One of this lowland species at Aguas Verdes.
GREEN-BACKED BECARD (YELLOW-CHEEKED) (Pachyramphus viridis xanthogenys) – On a second attempt, we found a pair above Pedro Ruiz. An uncommon foothill subspecies often split as Yellow-cheeked Becard.
BARRED BECARD (Pachyramphus versicolor) – Once along the Rio Chido, and several pairs with flocks around Owlet Lodge/Abra Patricia.
BLACK-AND-WHITE BECARD (Pachyramphus albogriseus) – One responsive, although very mobile, bird north of Jaen.
Vireonidae (Vireos)
BROWN-CAPPED VIREO (Vireo leucophrys) [*]
RED-EYED VIREO (Vireo olivaceus) – Seen at four sites in the Maranon drainage. Song and appearance suggested that most, if not all, were of a local breeding population, part of the South American "Chivi" group.
OLIVACEOUS GREENLET (Hylophilus olivaceus) – This foothills species is pretty plain, as we saw a couple of times with flocks near Afluente. And as with many foothill specialties, it is listed as "Near Threatened."
RUFOUS-BROWED PEPPERSHRIKE (Cyclarhis gujanensis) – Often heard and regularly seen throughout the tour route. We saw at least two subspecies of the virenticeps group, which includes birds with rufous crowns as well as brows, along with much more yellow. Splits are not anticipated.
Corvidae (Crows, Jays, and Magpies)
WHITE-COLLARED JAY (Cyanolyca viridicyanus) – After striking out above Leymebamba, we ended up seeing a pair below Abra Barro Negro that appeared, from our perspective down the road, about ready to get on our bus! This species is part of a taxonomic puzzle of Andean Jays: Black-collared, Turquoise, and White-collared. It is listed as "Near Threatened."


Green Jay was one of the species in the desert near Bagua Grande. This sunrise preceded our search for Little Inca-Finch. The Eastern Cordillera, our destination, is in the background. (Photo by guide Richard Webster)

GREEN JAY (Cyanocorax yncas) – Widespread in a variety of habitats. These Andean populations are split by some as "Inca Jay."
WHITE-TAILED JAY (Cyanocorax mystacalis) – This striking Tumbesian endemic was first enjoyed at Batan Grande, next at Chaparri, and finally at Quebrada Limon.
Hirundinidae (Swallows)
BLUE-AND-WHITE SWALLOW (Pygochelidon cyanoleuca) – Common and widespread.
BROWN-BELLIED SWALLOW (Orochelidon murina) – Small numbers in the high country of the last week of the tour.
SOUTHERN ROUGH-WINGED SWALLOW (Stelgidopteryx ruficollis) – A few in the lowlands.
GRAY-BREASTED MARTIN (Progne chalybea) – One for some on our arrival at the Chiclayo airport, a scattering in small towns on the Pacific slope, and one in Pedro Ruiz.
TUMBES SWALLOW (Tachycineta stolzmanni) – We had seen some distant ones, and were trying to sell countable views when Robert spotted some close ones behind us--much, much better! This swallow, as split from Mangrove, is not classified as threatened, but it certainly is local, and this is the only spot at which we have seen them on our route.
BARN SWALLOW (Hirundo rustica) – A few small flocks on the Pacific slope and a few birds in the Maranon drainage. [b]
Troglodytidae (Wrens)
FASCIATED WREN (Campylorhynchus fasciatus) – Family groups of this large wren were seen widely in dry habitats.
THRUSH-LIKE WREN (Campylorhynchus turdinus) – Heard near Afluente and a responsive pair was seen well at Aguas Verdes.
GRAY-MANTLED WREN (Odontorchilus branickii) – This canopy wren, an uncommon foothill species, was seen with the help of playback with two flocks in the Afluente area.
SHARPE'S WREN (Cinnycerthia olivascens) [*]
PERUVIAN WREN (Cinnycerthia peruana) – Only heard by the group who hiked up the Rio Chido, the only place on our route where we have a chance for this species, which occurs higher than Sharpe's Wren (another part of the former Sepia-brown Wren) in this area. [*]
PLAIN-TAILED WREN (Pheugopedius euophrys schulenbergi) – Also heard by the hiking group up the Rio Chido, again a bird not close to the region's roads. [*]
SPECKLE-BREASTED WREN (SPECKLE-BREASTED) (Pheugopedius sclateri paucimaculatus) – This Pacific-slope form was seen by both groups in Quebrada Limon.
SPECKLE-BREASTED WREN (MARANON) (Pheugopedius sclateri sclateri) – And the Maranon subspecies, split by a few, was heard, and with time, seen north of Jaen.
SUPERCILIATED WREN (Cantorchilus superciliaris) – Fairly common and not too hard to observe on the Pacific slope. This and Speckle-breasted were formerly in the genus Thryothorus, which has been divided into four genera.
HOUSE WREN (Troglodytes aedon) – Widespread in drier, open, and/or disturbed habitats. Birds from southern Mexico south are sometimes split as Southern House Wren.
MOUNTAIN WREN (Troglodytes solstitialis) – A few around Abra Patricia and Abra Barro Negro.
SEDGE WREN (Cistothorus platensis) – We saw a couple briefly on Abra Barro Negro, then several much better west of Celendin. Splits are highly likely, with these part of a group generally called Grass Wren.
BAR-WINGED WOOD-WREN (Henicorhina leucoptera) – We had to work on three different territories, and one of them a second time, but eventually we all had views of this secretive bird. Shared with southern Ecuador, so not an endemic. It is considered "Near Threatened."
GRAY-BREASTED WOOD-WREN (Henicorhina leucophrys) – Mostly heard in east slope forests, but we also taped them out a couple of times.
CHESTNUT-BREASTED WREN (Cyphorhinus thoracicus) – We had a terrific concert from this great singer, but they were ensconced in a thicket, and it was perhaps only Phyllis who saw them.
Polioptilidae (Gnatcatchers)
TROPICAL GNATCATCHER (WHITE-BROWED) (Polioptila plumbea bilineata) – Common, and a first responder to the PPO calls. This is the subspecies of the Pacific slope. Splits are likely in Tropical Gnatcatcher, and the bilineata group is a likely component.


Tropical Gnatcatcher (Maranon) is one of many taxonomic puzzles presented by populations in the Maranon separated from those of the Pacific slope. (Photo by guide Richard Webster)

TROPICAL GNATCATCHER (MARANON) (Polioptila plumbea maior) – Similarly widespread in arid areas of the Maranon Valley. Generally part of the bilineata group, but some would also split maior at Maranon Gnatcatcher.
Cinclidae (Dippers)
WHITE-CAPPED DIPPER (Cinclus leucocephalus) – Several pairs were along the Rio Chido, followed by another near Aguas Verdes.
Donacobiidae (Donacobius)
BLACK-CAPPED DONACOBIUS (Donacobius atricapilla) – At least two were in the wet pasture near Aguas Verdes, although they were atypically tepid in responding.
Turdidae (Thrushes and Allies)
ANDEAN SOLITAIRE (Myadestes ralloides) – Several heard, and a couple of sightings.
SWAINSON'S THRUSH (Catharus ustulatus) – Common at middle elevations on the east slope, with one at Abra Porculla and a couple north of Jaen. [b]
PALE-EYED THRUSH (Turdus leucops) – Wim saw one near Afluente.
PLUMBEOUS-BACKED THRUSH (Turdus reevei) – Both groups encountered this Tumbesian species in Quebrada Limon, where they are distinctly seasonal.
BLACK-BILLED THRUSH (Turdus ignobilis) – A few of this thrush of disturbed areas were seen near Aguas Verdes.
MARANON THRUSH (Turdus maranonicus) – This really distinctive Turdus, which is shared with a small portion of Ecuador, were seen near Bagua Grande, along the Rio Utcubamba, near Balsas, and at Hacienda Limon.
SLATY THRUSH (ANDEAN) (Turdus nigriceps nigriceps) – We had good views of at least four in fruiting trees near Afluente, where they were probably "wintering" from breeding grounds in Tumbesian Ecuador and Peru.
GREAT THRUSH (Turdus fuscater) – This large thrush was common in open areas of the highlands.
CHIGUANCO THRUSH (Turdus chiguanco) – Overlaps with Great Thrush, but generally in drier areas.
GLOSSY-BLACK THRUSH (Turdus serranus) – Singing around Owlet Lodge, where there were several sightings for "yard lists."
Mimidae (Mockingbirds and Thrashers)
LONG-TAILED MOCKINGBIRD (Mimus longicaudatus) – Common, at times abundant, in dry areas.
Motacillidae (Wagtails and Pipits)
PARAMO PIPIT (Anthus bogotensis) – Several were in the puna west of Celendin, where Daphne almost stepped on a nest.
Parulidae (New World Warblers)
MASKED YELLOWTHROAT (MASKED) (Geothlypis aequinoctialis peruviana) – A wide-ranging but patchy species, we saw this subspecies in the Utcubamba Valley and again near San Marcos. Splits have been suggested, with this one sometimes standing alone, or included with the next.
MASKED YELLOWTHROAT (BLACK-LORED) (Geothlypis aequinoctialis auricularis) – The Pacific form was singing at the Lomas de Lachay and one was seen at Batan Grande.
CERULEAN WARBLER (Setophaga cerulea) – We saw one at 1400mm above Afluente on 14 November. This declining warbler is considered "Vulnerable." [b]
TROPICAL PARULA (Setophaga pitiayumi) – In the deciduous woodland at Chaparri and Quebrada Limon and also in wet Andean forest near Afluente.


Lunch at 2800m means sun protection, from Joe's hat flaps to Mitch's umbrella to several pairs of dark glasses (fight catarcacts!), not to mention many flavors of SPF! (Photo by guide Richard Webster)

BLACKBURNIAN WARBLER (Setophaga fusca) – Fairly common wintering in the wet east slope forests, plus one along the Rio Utcubamba. [b]
THREE-STRIPED WARBLER (Basileuterus tristriatus) – Several encounters along the Rio Chido and around Afluente.
THREE-BANDED WARBLER (Basileuterus trifasciatus) – This Tumbesian endemic was fairly common below Abra Porculla and again on the Pacific slope below Abra El Gavilan.
BLACK-CRESTED WARBLER (Myiothlypis nigrocristatus) – Several sightings near the end of the trip: near Celendin, above Cajamarca, and below Abra El Gavilan.
GRAY-AND-GOLD WARBLER (Myiothlypis fraseri) – This Tumbesian warbler is a beauty, and was seen by both groups in Quebrada Limon.
RUSSET-CROWNED WARBLER (Myiothlypis coronatus) – Seen by at least one group at Abra Patricia, where more were heard.
CANADA WARBLER (Cardellina canadensis) – Along with Blackburnian, the common wintering warbler from the north; multiples in the Eastern Cordillera, and a couple along the Rio Utcubamba. [b]
SLATE-THROATED REDSTART (Myioborus miniatus) – Fairly common, generally below the range of the next, higher in its absence at Abra El Gavilan.
SPECTACLED REDSTART (Myioborus melanocephalus) – The upper elevation redstart (whitestart), the ones west of the Maranon with rufous coronal patches.
Coerebidae (Bananaquit)
BANANAQUIT (Coereba flaveola) – Common but local, occurring from seasonal woodland in the west to wet Andean forests around Afluente.
Thraupidae (Tanagers and Allies)
MAGPIE TANAGER (Cissopis leverianus) – Briefly in flight at Afluente, then Joe spotted a couple near Aguas Verdes.
WHITE-CAPPED TANAGER (Sericossypha albocristata) – This spectacular bird was a highlight of a very slow morning for one group along the Rio Chido; widespread in the area, we are never sure where we will see wide-ranging flocks of this species. It is considered "Vulnerable."
RUFOUS-CRESTED TANAGER (Creurgops verticalis) – One along the Rio Chido, and a couple more near Garcia.
SUPERCILIARIED HEMISPINGUS (WHITE-BELLIED) (Hemispingus superciliaris insignis) – Seen along the Rio Chido and on Abra Barro Negro; this population is one of the white (not yellow) bellied ones.
OLEAGINOUS HEMISPINGUS (Hemispingus frontalis) – Perhaps not the loveliest bird of the trip. Three with a flock near Garcia.
BLACK-EARED HEMISPINGUS (Hemispingus melanotis) – With extra time around Cajamarca, we managed to find a nice pair of this hemispingus below Abra El Gavilan. These birds, presumably H. m. macrophrys, are in the piurae group, often split from the Black-eared of wet Andean forests.
DRAB HEMISPINGUS (Hemispingus xanthophthalmus) – First seen by one group at Abra Patricia, then by all with small mixed flocks on Abra Barro Negro.
GRAY-HOODED BUSH TANAGER (Cnemoscopus rubrirostris) – Seen on several occasions at Abra Patricia, including as a yard bird and from the tower.
RUFOUS-CHESTED TANAGER (Thlypopsis ornata) – Virginia spotted a pair in shrubbery below Abra Barro Negro.
BUFF-BELLIED TANAGER (Thlypopsis inornata) – Bill spotted our first north of Jaen, and a week later we saw more on several days from the Utcubamba to Hacienda Limon. Barely extending into Ecuador, it is restricted to dry forests of the Maranon drainage.
CINEREOUS CONEBILL (Conirostrum cinereum) – And range of habitats and elevations, from the Pacific lowlands of the Lomas de Lachay and Batan Grande to the high elevation forest patches above Cajamarca.
BLUE-BACKED CONEBILL (Conirostrum sitticolor) – Two sightings on Abra Barro Negro.
CAPPED CONEBILL (Conirostrum albifrons) – A couple along the Rio Chido on our first visit, and a couple more with a flock above Garcia.
TIT-LIKE DACNIS (Xenodacnis parina) – Several males and females were seen by those who ventured off the road below Abra Gran Chimu; local in this part of the Andes.
YELLOW-CRESTED TANAGER (Tachyphonus rufiventer) – Not quite an endemic, but seldom see outside of Peru. We do not always find it at Aguas Verdes, but did well this year with a pair with a flock.
BLACK-BELLIED TANAGER (Ramphocelus melanogaster) – Initially in short supply, we then ran into several clusters around Afluente and Aguas Verdes, where they have colonized cleared areas. a.k.a. Huallaga Tanager. [E]
SILVER-BEAKED TANAGER (Ramphocelus carbo) – This widespread Amazonian species was seen briefly near Jaen and above Pedro Ruiz.
BLUE-GRAY TANAGER (Thraupis episcopus) – Another widespread lowland bird, seen on the Pacific slope (duller, no white shoulder) and in the Amazonian drainages (brighter, with a white shoulder).
PALM TANAGER (Thraupis palmarum) – A few in the Eastern Cordillera at lower elevations.
BLUE-CAPPED TANAGER (Thraupis cyanocephala) – Fairly common at upper elevations in the Eastern Cordillera.
BLUE-AND-YELLOW TANAGER (Thraupis bonariensis darwinii) – A tanager of higher and drier areas. Most remarkable was one male pounding on another, dying or already dead, in the road in front of our bus; it looked like a fight to the death, but we did not see the start.
VERMILION TANAGER (Calochaetes coccineus) – Like Blue-browed, one of those uncommon tanagers of middle elevations. We were thrilled to see several well below Garcia, a species that we can't guarantee (not that FGI ever guarantees anything!).
HOODED MOUNTAIN-TANAGER (Buthraupis montana) – One below Abra Barro Negro kept going, and was not seen by most.
LACRIMOSE MOUNTAIN-TANAGER (Anisognathus lacrymosus) – We saw a couple of flocks near Owlet Lodge.
SCARLET-BELLIED MOUNTAIN-TANAGER (Anisognathus igniventris) – At some point it becomes easier to just throw the thesaurus at the rest of the tanagers, because it becomes tiresome to keep coming up with fresh adjectives. Beautiful, lovely, dazzling, supercalifrag. . . . Consider the Thesaurus thrown! We saw Scarlet-bellied on Abra Barro Negro.
GRASS-GREEN TANAGER (Chlorornis riefferii) – This distinctive hulk was at Abra Patricia.
YELLOW-THROATED TANAGER (Iridosornis analis) – Responsive birds were enjoyed in the Garcia area.


Yellow-scarfed Tanager is one of the tanagers seen from the tower at Owlet Lodge, the site of this sunset photo over the Andes. (Photo by guide Richard Webster)

YELLOW-SCARFED TANAGER (Iridosornis reinhardti) – Both groups saw this stunning bird around Abra Patricia, where we have been doing less and less well with it on recent tours, so it was nice to be firmly in the plus column. [E]
ORANGE-EARED TANAGER (Chlorochrysa calliparaea) – A foothill species that has been declining along the busy road with its fragmented forests. We saw one near Afluente.
TURQUOISE TANAGER (Tangara mexicana) – One encounter with this Amazonian species at Aguas Verdes.
PARADISE TANAGER (Tangara chilensis) – Pleasantly common on the lower east slope, and it lived up to its name.
GREEN-AND-GOLD TANAGER (Tangara schrankii) – A few from Afluente down the mountain.
GOLDEN TANAGER (Tangara arthus) – A few from Afluente to Aguas Verdes; not especially common.
SAFFRON-CROWNED TANAGER (Tangara xanthocephala) – A favorite of many, from Abra Patricia to Afluente.
GOLDEN-EARED TANAGER (Tangara chrysotis) – One of the scarcer foothill species, we were fortunate to end up with two near Afluente; good looks.
FLAME-FACED TANAGER (Tangara parzudakii) – Another special one, seen several times from Abra Patricia down to Garcia.
YELLOW-BELLIED TANAGER (Tangara xanthogastra) – An Amazonian species, of which we saw several in the foothills.
SPOTTED TANAGER (Tangara punctata) – Encountered once near Afluente.
BAY-HEADED TANAGER (Tangara gyrola) – Seen regularly with foothill flocks.
GOLDEN-NAPED TANAGER (Tangara ruficervix) – One near Afluente.
METALLIC-GREEN TANAGER (Tangara labradorides) – Two at Garcia were responsive, providing good views, a good thing given that we did not see them again.
BLUE-BROWED TANAGER (Tangara cyanotis) – Another scarce bird of middle elevations, always a good find; seen twice: Afluente and Garcia.


Can one have too many spatuletail pictures? Sure, but this one shows the lovely gorget color a little better, along with the crown; not quite up to tanager standards, but beautiful. (Photo by guide Richard Webster)

BLUE-NECKED TANAGER (Tangara cyanicollis) – Fairly common on the east slope and also in the Utcubamba Valley.
BERYL-SPANGLED TANAGER (Tangara nigroviridis) – One of the higher elevation Tangara, found along the Rio Chido and around Owlet Lodge.
BLUE-AND-BLACK TANAGER (Tangara vassorii) – Often the highest elevation Tanagra, this year seen only a couple of times around Owlet Lodge.
SILVERY TANAGER (Tangara viridicollis) – An unusual bird, occurring both wet forests and in drier rainforest woodland, e.g., in the Utcubamba Valley. a.k.a. Silver-backed Tanager.
BLACK-FACED DACNIS (Dacnis lineata) – A couple of encounters with foothill flocks.
BLUE DACNIS (Dacnis cayana) – Ditto.
PURPLE HONEYCREEPER (Cyanerpes caeruleus) – A handful around Aguas Verdes.
GOLDEN-COLLARED HONEYCREEPER (Iridophanes pulcherrimus) – A good study of a responsive female near Afluente was followed by a pair at our lunch spot up the mountain. An uncommon foothill specialty.
SWALLOW TANAGER (Tersina viridis) – Some good telescope views of males and females at Aguas Verdes and Afluente.
STREAKED SALTATOR (Saltator striatipectus immaculatus) – A couple at Batan Grande; this subspecies is common in many places, but scarce on our route. As the subspecific name suggests, it is an unstreaked form.
STREAKED SALTATOR (Saltator striatipectus peruvianus) – The Maranon subspecies is heavily streaked, and is common on our route, seen daily when we were in the more arid habitats.
GRAYISH SALTATOR (Saltator coerulescens) – Two of this lowland bird were at Aguas Verdes.
BLACK-COWLED SALTATOR (Saltator nigriceps) – The Tumbesian counterpart to Golden-billed, from which it is generally split. We saw several singing below Abra Porculla.
GOLDEN-BILLED SALTATOR (Saltator aurantiirostris) – At the northern end of its long range at Cajamarca, in which region we saw them daily, first above Hacienda Limon.
BUFF-THROATED SALTATOR (Saltator maximus) – A couple of quick encounters in the foothills.
SLATE-COLORED GROSBEAK (Saltator grossus) [*]
Emberizidae (Buntings, Sparrows and Allies)
PERUVIAN SIERRA-FINCH (Phrygilus punensis) – From above Hacienda Limon to Cajamarca, a series of encounters with small numbers.
MOURNING SIERRA-FINCH (Phrygilus fruticeti) – One pair were across the Rio Chonta from us; the northern end of a long range.
PLUMBEOUS SIERRA-FINCH (Phrygilus unicolor) – Two below Abra Gran Chimu.
ASH-BREASTED SIERRA-FINCH (Phrygilus plebejus) – First on Abra Porculla, then at the end in the Cajamarca area.
BAND-TAILED SIERRA-FINCH (Phrygilus alaudinus) – Two were singing in the Lomas de Lachay (they also occur in the north, but we haven't seen them there very often).
CINEREOUS FINCH (Piezorhina cinerea) – This specialty of the driest deserts was seen at Batan Grande, below Chaparri, and en route to Quebrada Limon. [E]
GRAY-WINGED INCA-FINCH (Incaspiza ortizi) – Recent rains had refreshed the vegetation and presumably the inca-finches, which were up and singing at Hacienda Limon. Good views of a species that is considered "Vulnerable," with a population under 7,000. [E]


Buff-bridled Inca-Finch was seen on the slopes of the Rio Maranon on both sides of the river. (Photo by guide Richard Webster)

BUFF-BRIDLED INCA-FINCH (Incaspiza laeta) – Perhaps the most attractive of the three inca-finches we saw, it occurred in the parrotlet habitat, and was easier to find and study! [E]
LITTLE INCA-FINCH (Incaspiza watkinsi) – Our first ones were south of Jaen, and we improved views greatly two days later near Bagua Grande. [E]
PLAIN-TAILED WARBLING-FINCH (Poospiza alticola) – We saw them at two spots that were new for us (although within the known range, and one is a collection locality), and then missed them at the one spot where we had seen them. More reliable in Central Peru, we are at least building a collection of spots at which to look for this "Endangered" species with a population under 1,700 individuals. [E]
COLLARED WARBLING-FINCH (Poospiza hispaniolensis) – Great views at the Lomas de Lachay were followed by more at Batan Grande and Chaparri.
BLUE-BLACK GRASSQUIT (Volatinia jacarina) – A few near Bagua Grande and one north of San Marcos.
YELLOW-BELLIED SEEDEATER (Sporophila nigricollis) – Two above Pedro Ruiz.
PARROT-BILLED SEEDEATER (Sporophila peruviana) – We saw several highly mobile flocks (it is non-breeding season) below Chaparri, some of them mixed with Sulphur-throated Finches, and some saw them again as we left Quebrada Limon.
DRAB SEEDEATER (Sporophila simplex) – After some recent rain, they were singing around Jaen and near Bagua Grande.


Chestnut-throated Seedeater is one of a number of birds that have adapted to rice fields that now occupy much of the lowlands. The Cordillera de Colan stands in the background, one of the homes of the Long-whiskered Owlet. (Photo by guide Richard Webster)

CHESTNUT-THROATED SEEDEATER (Sporophila telasco) – Seen in desert scrub near Bagua Grande and in the rice fields to the south.
BAND-TAILED SEEDEATER (Catamenia analis) – First at the Lomas de Lachay, then scattered in the drier, higher areas of the Andes.
PLAIN-COLORED SEEDEATER (Catamenia inornata) – Daily in the Leymebamba to Cajamarca end to the tour route.
DULL-COLORED GRASSQUIT (Tiaris obscurus) – A different selection from the thesaurus would be needed for this recent set of birds! Fairly common near Jaen, with more around Balsas, including at camp.
MOUSTACHED FLOWERPIERCER (Diglossa mystacalis) – Seen by the hikers up the Rio Chido, and again for all below Abra Barro Negro, perched up singing.
BLACK-THROATED FLOWERPIERCER (Diglossa brunneiventris) – In the high country on both sides of the Maranon.
WHITE-SIDED FLOWERPIERCER (Diglossa albilatera) – A few of what is often a common species; Owlet Lodge and Abra Barro Negro.


Leymebamba was a base for visiting the high country, and also the site of the wonderful museum about the Chachapoya. (Photo by guide Richard Webster)

RUSTY FLOWERPIERCER (Diglossa sittoides) – By our second visit to the Puerto Pumas, everyone had caught up with this species in the garden. Also seen at Hacienda Limon and later en route to Cajamarca.
DEEP-BLUE FLOWERPIERCER (Diglossa glauca) – This uncommon middle-elevation flowerpiercer was seen twice near Garcia, once at close range, including the bright yellow eye.
BLUISH FLOWERPIERCER (Diglossa caerulescens) – Several encounters at Abra Patricia.
MASKED FLOWERPIERCER (Diglossa cyanea) – Seen regularly, including at Owlet Lodge and on Abra Barro Negro.
SAFFRON FINCH (Sicalis flaveola) – Regular in the lowlands. Memorably, one was watched attacking its reflection in the mirror of a motorcycle parked at Chaparri.
GRASSLAND YELLOW-FINCH (Sicalis luteola) – We saw a few on Hillstarless Hill.
SULPHUR-THROATED FINCH (Sicalis taczanowskii) – A Tumbesian bird that is easy in few places, but Chaparri is often one. This year the lowest water in the creek was well below the lodge, and we missed seeing them come to drink, but we did find some flocks on the grassy lower slopes, and had good telescope views, even of the limited sulphur on the throat.


Emerald-bellied Puffleg was a daily visitor in small numbers to the feeders at Owlet Lodge, and were on the "yardlists" of many. (Photo by guide Richard Webster)

RED-CRESTED FINCH (Coryphospingus cucullatus) – Another dry-country species with an isolated population in the middle Maranon Valley. We saw them near Jaen and Bagua Grande.
BLACK-CAPPED SPARROW (Arremon abeillei abeillei) – The far-ranging group saw one well up Quebrada Limon; this is the widespread Pacific slope form.
BLACK-CAPPED SPARROW (Arremon abeillei nigriceps) – Usually a struggle, this Maranon form was missed near Jaen, and seen very briefly above Pedro Ruiz.
GRAY-BROWED BRUSH-FINCH (Arremon assimilis) – Seen by Lynda below Abra Porculla, by some along the Rio Chido, and heard at close range east of Celendin. One of the splits of Stripe-headed Brush-Finch, this being the species of much of Colombia to N. Peru.
YELLOW-BREASTED BRUSH-FINCH (Atlapetes latinuchus latinuchus) – Daily in the Eastern Andes, including right around Owlet Lodge. As split from Rufous-naped Brush-Finch.
YELLOW-BREASTED BRUSH-FINCH (Atlapetes latinuchus baroni) – This subspecies, with its pale nape, was seen at several spots in the Western Andes in the Celendin to Cajamarca area. A split is not expected, but this population is visually distinctive.
RUFOUS-EARED BRUSH-FINCH (Atlapetes rufigenis) – A glimpse for a few near Celendin and nothing near Cajamarca; primarily a bird of Central Peru, but we had had good views on several recent tours. It is considered "Near Threatened." [E]
WHITE-WINGED BRUSH-FINCH (Atlapetes leucopterus) – A few in Quebrada Limon were followed by repeated good views below Abra Porculla.
WHITE-HEADED BRUSH-FINCH (Atlapetes albiceps) – This Tumbesian species was seen by both groups in Quebrada Limon.
BAY-CROWNED BRUSH-FINCH (Atlapetes seebohmi) – Always a challenge at Abra Porcuya, we managed good looks at a few.
TUMBES SPARROW (Rhynchospiza stolzmanni) – Easily seen at Chaparri, with more at Quebrada Limon. Based on genetic studies, Aimophila has been divided several ways, with this species returning to its original genus.
YELLOW-BROWED SPARROW (Ammodramus aurifrons) – One in a pasture near Afluente.
RUFOUS-COLLARED SPARROW (Zonotrichia capensis) – Nearly daily; not present in all lowland areas.
COMMON BUSH-TANAGER (NORTHERN ANDES) (Chlorospingus ophthalmicus hiaticolus) – Heard daily around Owlet Lodge and seen there and elsewhere around Abra Patricia.
ASHY-THROATED BUSH-TANAGER (Chlorospingus canigularis) – A couple of quick encounters with mixed flocks below Garcia.
Cardinalidae (Cardinals and Allies)


Our hotel at Banos del Inca was a delightful end to a trip that included camping and some small-town hotels. (Photo by guide Richard Webster)

HEPATIC TANAGER (HIGHLAND) (Piranga flava lutea) – Small numbers of this resident, Andean population, widespread in drier forests.
WHITE-WINGED TANAGER (Piranga leucoptera) – Seen with two mixed flocks in the Afluente area.
RED-HOODED TANAGER (Piranga rubriceps) – Seen by one group at Owlet Lodge, and heard there the next day.
GOLDEN-BELLIED GROSBEAK (Pheucticus chrysogaster) – Widespread in arid areas; a stunning part of the original Yellow Grosbeak complex.
Icteridae (Troupials and Allies)
PERUVIAN MEADOWLARK (Sturnella bellicosa) – First at the Lomas de Lachay, and scattered along the way through the Cajamarca airport.
SCRUB BLACKBIRD (Dives warszewiczi) – Batan Grande, Chaparri, and Quebrada Limon (nominate), heard again below Abra El Gavilan (presumably kalinowskii).
ORIOLE BLACKBIRD (Gymnomystax mexicanus) – A couple in a wet pasture near Aguas Verdes.
SHINY COWBIRD (Molothrus bonariensis) – A few on the Pacific slope, and again in the Maranon (M. b. occidentalis near Bagua Grande).
GIANT COWBIRD (Molothrus oryzivorus) – Two fly-bys over the lower east slope.
WHITE-EDGED ORIOLE (Icterus graceannae) – Another Tumbesian endemic, seen well at Chaparri and Quebrada Limon, with a couple at other spots on the Pacific slope.
YELLOW-TAILED ORIOLE (Icterus mesomelas) – Around our campsite at Balsas.
MOUNTAIN CACIQUE (GOLDEN-SHOULDERED) (Cacicus chrysonotus peruvianus) – Seen by one group at Abra Patricia, and by all, perched nicely, above Leymebamba.
SCARLET-RUMPED CACIQUE (Cacicus uropygialis) [*]
YELLOW-RUMPED CACIQUE (Cacicus cela) – Easily seen near Aguas Verdes, the edge of the Amazonian distribution.
RUSSET-BACKED OROPENDOLA (Psarocolius angustifrons) – Scarce this trip; a few near Afluente.
CRESTED OROPENDOLA (Psarocolius decumanus) – A few in the lower Amazonian foothills.
Fringillidae (Siskins, Crossbills, and Allies)
PURPLE-THROATED EUPHONIA (Euphonia chlorotica) – Daily in arid areas of the Maranon drainage.
THICK-BILLED EUPHONIA (Euphonia laniirostris) – Several in a fruiting tree in Quebrada Limon, and a couple more near Aguas Verdes.
GOLDEN-RUMPED EUPHONIA (Euphonia cyanocephala) – A couple in the Utcubamba Valley, and Romney observed a pair gathering nesting material from the hanging plants in the courtyard of our hotel in Leymebamba.
BRONZE-GREEN EUPHONIA (Euphonia mesochrysa) – A foothill species; seen well once, less well one or two more times, and heard regularly.
ORANGE-BELLIED EUPHONIA (Euphonia xanthogaster) – Fairly common on the eastern slope.
BLUE-NAPED CHLOROPHONIA (Chlorophonia cyanea) – Seen twice above Afluente.
CHESTNUT-BREASTED CHLOROPHONIA (Chlorophonia pyrrhophrys) – Briefly for a few near Owlet Lodge.
LESSER GOLDFINCH (Spinus psaltria) – Wim had this bird above Leymebamba and Phyllis recognized this species, familiar from around her home but now at the southern end of the long range, above Balsas, and several more were seen later.
HOODED SISKIN (Spinus magellanicus) – Widespread in small numbers.
MAMMALS


Yellow-tailed Woolly Monkey is one of the rarest species we saw, and one of the least expected. (Photo by guide Richard Webster)

YELLOW-TAILED WOOLLY MONKEY (Lagothrix flavicauda) – One of the highlights of the tour, and one of the lucky finds, an Endangered, endemic mammal along a busy road. Great views below Garcia of this relatively calm troop that was feeding on small fruit. Wonderful! [E]
GUAYAQUIL SQUIRREL (Sciurus stramineus) – Generally known at Guayaquil Squirrel.
NORTHERN MOUNTAIN VISCACHA (Lagidium peruanum) – One was out in front of its crevice in a small cliff above Balsas; nice views of this attractive, but strange, creature.
SECHURAN FOX (Pseudalopex sechurae) – Tame around the lodge at Chaparri; lovely looks at this small fox, names for the nearby desert.
TAYRA (Eira barbara) – Fabulous looks at one raiding the feeders at Owlet Lodge.
COLLARED PECCARY (Tayassu tajacu) – Seen by some around the lodge at Chaparri.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

Opossum sp. by Virginia.

Bat sp., including drinking from the swimming pool at Jaen.

Lizards, including Blue-headed Whiptail, Dicrodon guttulatum, in the coastal deserts, and Microlophus (formerly Tropidurus) koepckeorum, Koepcke's Curly-tailed Lizard, on rocky slopes above Balsas.

Many millipedes.

Incredible displays of moths around the lights at Owlet Lodge.

A steady stream of lovely butterflies.

Totals for the tour: 548 bird taxa and 6 mammal taxa