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The Nanday Parakeet is scarce and localized in the Pantanal, but we were able to see them well at the feeders at Rio Claro Lodge. Photo by participant Jan Wood.
Brazil holds the title of second highest number of species of birds in the world, but unlike Colombia and Peru, which hold the first and third places respectively, Brazil is enormous. Brazil encompasses an area that is greater than the lower 48 states in the United States, so picking a tour to Brazil is always a challenge. This tour might be the perfect way to start exploring the country.
Focusing on three different areas and two major biomes in the country, we often see about one fifth of the species that occur in Brazil. We see many of the endemics of the Atlantic Forest, we experience the might of the Iguazu Falls and we discover why the Pantanal is one of the most famous birding destinations in the world.
We started our tour at Intervales State Park, a special place that is part of a mosaic of parks that protects the largest remaining tracts of Atlantic Forest in the world. There is only 11% of this forest left, and the birding was world class right from the doorstep of our lodge. We were able to spend four nights in one place and benefit from the great knowledge of the local guides who live here. In Iguazu, we had VIP access to the Falls. We were able to enter the park before it was open on the Argentine side, and we stayed in the park on the Brazilian side, thus enjoying a wealth of birds that matched the spectacle of the thundering falls. In the Pantanal, two different lodges took us to different habitats and provided a diversity of birds, mammals and reptiles that will leave long lasting memories of the peaceful boat trips and loud sunrises and sunsets as the birds filled the air with a cacophony of sounds.
The tour is called Brazil Nutshell because it encompasses the best of this amazing country in a Nutshell. Great birds, great food and above all, great people!
Thank you all for joining me and I hope we meet again in another corner of this great country.
-Marcelo Padua
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
We saw both White-faced and Black-bellied Whistling-Ducks. This little flock was photographed by participant Lois Wood.
Rheidae (Rheas)
GREATER RHEA (Rhea americana) – This species is the largest bird in South America and is always a treat to see. We had multiple looks at them during our visit to the Pantanal.
Tinamidae (Tinamous)
UNDULATED TINAMOU (Crypturellus undulatus) [*]
Anhimidae (Screamers)
SOUTHERN SCREAMER (Chauna torquata) – Another giant that was seen (and heard) in the Pantanal. It was particularly nice to see a large concentration of birds on a field near Piuval Lodge.
Anatidae (Ducks, Geese, and Waterfowl)
WHITE-FACED WHISTLING-DUCK (Dendrocygna viduata) – Found in good numbers mixed in with the more common Black-bellied Whistling-duck.
BLACK-BELLIED WHISTLING-DUCK (Dendrocygna autumnalis)
MUSCOVY DUCK (Cairina moschata)
BRAZILIAN TEAL (Amazonetta brasiliensis) – These small ducks don't look like much when they are sitting, but when they take off they show a spectacular wing speculum.
Cracidae (Guans, Chachalacas, and Curassows)
CHACO CHACHALACA (Ortalis canicollis) – Noisy and omnipresent in the Pantanal.
DUSKY-LEGGED GUAN (Penelope obscura) – Great looks at adults with chicks running around Intervales.
CHESTNUT-BELLIED GUAN (Penelope ochrogaster) – Great looks at this ornate guan in the Pantanal, where they were even common around our rooms at Rio Claro.
BLUE-THROATED PIPING-GUAN (Pipile cumanensis) – Nice looks at these guans during our boat outings in the Pantanal.
BARE-FACED CURASSOW (Crax fasciolata) – These handsome Cracids are quite a sight and the female is particularly ornate with her curly black-and-white crest.
Odontophoridae (New World Quail)
SPOT-WINGED WOOD-QUAIL (Odontophorus capueira) [E*]
Ciconiidae (Storks)
JABIRU (Jabiru mycteria) – Several good looks at these Giant Storks that were starting their breeding season in the Pantanal.
WOOD STORK (Mycteria americana) – Wood Storks are migratory in the Pantanal and the birds we saw were the first ones of the season.
Phalacrocoracidae (Cormorants and Shags)
NEOTROPIC CORMORANT (Phalacrocorax brasilianus) – Common both in the Pantanal and around the falls at Iguazu.
Amazon Kingfisher is common in the Pantanal. Photo by participant Jan Wood.
Anhingidae (Anhingas)
ANHINGA (Anhinga anhinga)
Ardeidae (Herons, Egrets, and Bitterns)
ZIGZAG HERON (Zebrilus undulatus) – We worked hard for this one, searching for it for hours, but our efforts were repaid when we had a bird just a few feet away, displaying its crest and walking up and down a clear branch.
LEAST BITTERN (Ixobrychus exilis) – Great looks at a bird on the side of the Transpantaneira Road at dusk. It always amazes me how well these birds blend in with the vegetation.
RUFESCENT TIGER-HERON (Tigrisoma lineatum) – We saw several of them but it was memorable seeing a bird on a nest pretending to be a branch during a boat trip from Rio Claro.
COCOI HERON (Ardea cocoi) – A close relative of the Great Blue Heron.
GREAT EGRET (Ardea alba)
SNOWY EGRET (Egretta thula)
LITTLE BLUE HERON (Egretta caerulea) – A few individuals seen around our lodge at Piuval.
CATTLE EGRET (Bubulcus ibis)
STRIATED HERON (Butorides striata) – Similar to the Green Heron from North America and a common sight in the Pantanal.
WHISTLING HERON (Syrigma sibilatrix) – This ornate heron walked around the fields surrounding Rio Claro Lodge.
CAPPED HERON (Pilherodius pileatus)
BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON (Nycticorax nycticorax)
Threskiornithidae (Ibises and Spoonbills)
WHITE-FACED IBIS (Plegadis chihi) – A single bird mixed in with the Bare-faced Ibis near Piuval Lodge.
GREEN IBIS (Mesembrinibis cayennensis)
BARE-FACED IBIS (Phimosus infuscatus) – A seasonal visitor to the Pantanal that was present in great numbers.
These Hyacinth Macaws posed nicely for participant Jan Wood.
PLUMBEOUS IBIS (Theristicus caerulescens)
BUFF-NECKED IBIS (Theristicus caudatus)
ROSEATE SPOONBILL (Platalea ajaja) – A great spot by Lois during one of our outings at Piuval Lodge.
Cathartidae (New World Vultures)
BLACK VULTURE (Coragyps atratus)
TURKEY VULTURE (Cathartes aura) – The birds found in South America are quite different from the North American ones and belong to the subspecies ruficollis.
LESSER YELLOW-HEADED VULTURE (Cathartes burrovianus)
Pandionidae (Osprey)
OSPREY (Pandion haliaetus)
Accipitridae (Hawks, Eagles, and Kites)
BLACK HAWK-EAGLE (Spizaetus tyrannus) – A couple of individuals seen soaring at Intervales.
BLACK-COLLARED HAWK (Busarellus nigricollis) – It is always fun to see these guys fetching fish that is thrown into the water by the boat men in the Pantanal.
SNAIL KITE (Rostrhamus sociabilis) – Certainly the most common bird of prey in the Pantanal at this time of the year. Later in the year the vast majority of them will have migrated to the Amazon.
SHARP-SHINNED HAWK (RUFOUS-THIGHED) (Accipiter striatus erythronemius) – A bird flew into a a tree near the feeders at Intevales and sat around long enough for us to get a good look at it. Unlike the North American subspecies, these birds are quite scarce and hard to see, so it was a real treat getting a good look at one.
SAVANNA HAWK (Buteogallus meridionalis)
GREAT BLACK HAWK (Buteogallus urubitinga)
ROADSIDE HAWK (Rupornis magnirostris)
WHITE-RUMPED HAWK (Parabuteo leucorrhous) – Another rare and scarce raptor that was seen at Intervales.
SHORT-TAILED HAWK (Buteo brachyurus)
We got some good looks at the Greater Rhea in the Pantanal. Photo by participant Jan Wood.
Eurypygidae (Sunbittern)
SUNBITTERN (Eurypyga helias) – Lovely views of a pair of birds during our stay at Piuval Lodge. We even saw their ornate wing patterns as they flew away from our vehicle.
Rallidae (Rails, Gallinules, and Coots)
RUFOUS-SIDED CRAKE (Laterallus melanophaius) [*]
RED-AND-WHITE CRAKE (Laterallus leucopyrrhus) – It was a great treat to see this shy species coming out of the reeds to feed on some cracked corn that was put out by our local guide at intervales.
GRAY-COWLED WOOD-RAIL (Aramides cajaneus) – Formerly known as Gray-necked Wood-Rail.
SLATY-BREASTED WOOD-RAIL (Aramides saracura) – An Atlantic Forest endemic that was seen nicely around some clearings at Intevales. [E]
BLACKISH RAIL (Pardirallus nigricans) – Better than seeing this species was hearing its strange vocalizations a few times.
PURPLE GALLINULE (Porphyrio martinica)
AZURE GALLINULE (Porphyrio flavirostris) – Present in good numbers at Piuval Lake.
COMMON GALLINULE (Gallinula galeata) – Seen on the lake behind the restaurant at Intervales.
Aramidae (Limpkin)
LIMPKIN (Aramus guarauna) – Very abundant in the Pantanal.
Recurvirostridae (Stilts and Avocets)
BLACK-NECKED STILT (WHITE-BACKED) (Himantopus mexicanus melanurus) – Common in the flooded fields around Piuval lodge.
Charadriidae (Plovers and Lapwings)
SOUTHERN LAPWING (Vanellus chilensis) – A common species of lawns and open fields all over Brazil.
Jacanidae (Jacanas)
WATTLED JACANA (Jacana jacana)
Scolopacidae (Sandpipers and Allies)
SOLITARY SANDPIPER (Tringa solitaria) – One of the last Boreal migrants to start the journey back home. We saw several of them in the Pantanal.
Laridae (Gulls, Terns, and Skimmers)
LARGE-BILLED TERN (Phaetusa simplex)
This lovely Yellow-fronted Woodpecker was a regular at the feeders at Intervales. Photo by participant Lois Wood.
Columbidae (Pigeons and Doves)
ROCK PIGEON (Columba livia) – Common in every town in Brazil.
PALE-VENTED PIGEON (Patagioenas cayennensis)
PICAZURO PIGEON (Patagioenas picazuro) – The standard large pigeon in the wild on this tour. Easily diagnosed in flight by the white crescents on the wing.
PLUMBEOUS PIGEON (Patagioenas plumbea) – Seen nicely at Intervales where one of them perched on a dead snag in the marshes by the reception.
RUDDY GROUND-DOVE (Columbina talpacoti) – The most common of the Ground-doves.
SCALED DOVE (Columbina squammata) – This species is a close relative of the North American Inca Dove and we had great looks at them in the Pantanal.
LONG-TAILED GROUND-DOVE (Uropelia campestris) – This minute Ground-Dove was seen on the access road to Rio Claro Lodge.
WHITE-TIPPED DOVE (Leptotila verreauxi)
EARED DOVE (Zenaida auriculata) – Seen well at Intervales.
Cuculidae (Cuckoos)
GUIRA CUCKOO (Guira guira) – These miniature dinosaurs are common but always fun to watch. The name Guira is an indigenous word that means "bird".
GREATER ANI (Crotophaga major) – Seen on the walkway to the Devil's Throat and later in the Pantanal.
SMOOTH-BILLED ANI (Crotophaga ani)
LITTLE CUCKOO (Coccycua minuta) – Good looks at this colorful miniature of a Squirrel Cuckoo from a boat at Piuval Lodge.
SQUIRREL CUCKOO (Piaya cayana) – Woodie spotted one of these guys mobbing a Ferruginous Pygmy-owl and we all enjoyed the standoff. Both birds left unharmed in the end.
PEARLY-BREASTED CUCKOO (Coccyzus euleri) – A very scarce bird in the area. We saw it well in Argentina.
Zigzag Heron can be difficult to find, but once we located this bird it cooperated nicely! Photo by participant Lois Wood.
Strigidae (Owls)
TROPICAL SCREECH-OWL (Megascops choliba) – Fabulous looks at this fierce little owl right outside our lodge at Intervales.
BLACK-CAPPED SCREECH-OWL (Megascops atricapilla) – Our local in Iguazu had a staked out territory and we ended up getting great looks at this species.
LONG-TUFTED SCREECH-OWL (Megascops sanctaecatarinae) [*]
GREAT HORNED OWL (Bubo virginianus) – A pair of birds seen nicely in the Pantanal.
FERRUGINOUS PYGMY-OWL (Glaucidium brasilianum) – Seen a few times on the tour but the the most memorable one was the bird we saw on the Argentine side getting mobbed by a squirrel cuckoo.
RUSTY-BARRED OWL (Strix hylophila) – Great looks at this species during our visit to Intervales.
Caprimulgidae (Nightjars and Allies)
BAND-TAILED NIGHTHAWK (Nyctiprogne leucopyga)
COMMON PAURAQUE (Nyctidromus albicollis) – The most common species of night bird on the tour. We had many of them in the Pantanal and even had one that hung around our lodge at Intervales.
Nyctibiidae (Potoos)
COMMON POTOO (Nyctibius griseus) – Our local guide had one staked out for us at Intervales. It was particularly nice to see it in the day time and appreciate its camouflage.
Apodidae (Swifts)
GREAT DUSKY SWIFT (Cypseloides senex) – It is always a stunning sight seeing these swifts flying through the waterfall at Iguazu. [E]
WHITE-COLLARED SWIFT (Streptoprocne zonaris)
SICK'S SWIFT (Chaetura meridionalis)
Trochilidae (Hummingbirds)
BLACK JACOBIN (Florisuga fusca) – Several individuals seen feeding on Inga flowers at Intervales. [E]
CINNAMON-THROATED HERMIT (Phaethornis nattereri)
BUFF-BELLIED HERMIT (Phaethornis subochraceus) – Seen around a lek in the Pantanal.
Black-collared Hawk is common in the Pantanal, where participant Jan Wood got this nice action shot.
SCALE-THROATED HERMIT (Phaethornis eurynome) [E]
WHITE-TAILED GOLDENTHROAT (Polytmus guainumbi) – We found a nest with two chicks in the Pantanal.
BLACK-THROATED MANGO (Anthracothorax nigricollis) – Common at the feeders at Iguazu.
FESTIVE COQUETTE (FESTIVE) (Lophornis chalybeus chalybeus) – Several individuals feeding on Bottlebrush flowers at Intervales.
GLITTERING-BELLIED EMERALD (Chlorostilbon lucidus)
SWALLOW-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD (Eupetomena macroura)
FORK-TAILED WOODNYMPH (Thalurania furcata) – This is the Woodnymph we saw in the Pantanal.
VIOLET-CAPPED WOODNYMPH (Thalurania glaucopis) – This species replaces the Fork-tailed Woodnymph in the Atlantic Forest. [E]
WHITE-THROATED HUMMINGBIRD (Leucochloris albicollis)
VERSICOLORED EMERALD (Amazilia versicolor) – Another species of hummer that is common at the feeders in Iguazu.
GLITTERING-THROATED EMERALD (Amazilia fimbriata)
GILDED HUMMINGBIRD (Hylocharis chrysura)
Trogonidae (Trogons)
BLUE-CROWNED TROGON (Trogon curucui) – The only species of Trogon present in the Pantanal.
SURUCUA TROGON (Trogon surrucura) – Great looks at this Atlantic Forest endemic at Intervales. [E]
BLACK-THROATED TROGON (Trogon rufus) [*]
This Tropical Screech-Owl was sitting outside our lodge at Intervales. Photo by participant Lois Wood.
Momotidae (Motmots)
AMAZONIAN MOTMOT (Momotus momota) [*]
RUFOUS-CAPPED MOTMOT (Baryphthengus ruficapillus) – Seen nicely at Iguazu where we even had them around our lodge in the Argentine side. [E]
Alcedinidae (Kingfishers)
RINGED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle torquata) – The largest species of kingfisher in the Americas and one that is quite common in the Pantanal where we even saw them perched on wires along the road.
AMAZON KINGFISHER (Chloroceryle amazona) – Common in the rivers in the Pantanal.
GREEN KINGFISHER (Chloroceryle americana) – A miniature version of the more common and more conspicuous Amazon Kingfisher.
GREEN-AND-RUFOUS KINGFISHER (Chloroceryle inda) – This shy forest species is often hard to find but we had great looks at them.
AMERICAN PYGMY KINGFISHER (Chloroceryle aenea) – Tiny and discreet but we found them in the Pantanal.
Bucconidae (Puffbirds)
BUFF-BELLIED PUFFBIRD (Notharchus swainsoni) [E*]
RUSTY-BREASTED NUNLET (Nonnula rubecula) – A small puffbird that lives in the understory of forested areas and is often hard to detect. We had scope views of one at Intervales.
BLACK-FRONTED NUNBIRD (Monasa nigrifrons) – Common in the Pantanal.
Galbulidae (Jacamars)
RUFOUS-TAILED JACAMAR (Galbula ruficauda)
Ramphastidae (Toucans)
CHESTNUT-EARED ARACARI (Pteroglossus castanotis)
SPOT-BILLED TOUCANET (Selenidera maculirostris) – Always a treat to see this colorful toucan. We had them well at Intervales. [E]
TOCO TOUCAN (Ramphastos toco) – A common sight around the falls at iguazu.
RED-BREASTED TOUCAN (Ramphastos dicolorus) – Seen around Intervales.
We had a great view of this Red-billed Scythebill. Photo by participant Jan Wood.
Picidae (Woodpeckers)
OCHRE-COLLARED PICULET (Picumnus temminckii) – An Atlantic forest specialty that was seen nicely at Intervales. [E]
WHITE-WEDGED PICULET (Picumnus albosquamatus) – The geographical replacement of the Ochre-collared Piculet in the Pantanal.
WHITE WOODPECKER (Melanerpes candidus) – Nice looks at these elegant Woodpeckers on the way to Intervales.
YELLOW-FRONTED WOODPECKER (Melanerpes flavifrons) – A colorful visitor to the feeders of our lodge at Intervales. [E]
WHITE-FRONTED WOODPECKER (Melanerpes cactorum) – A scarce and localized species in the Pantanal but we knew just where to find them.
WHITE-SPOTTED WOODPECKER (Veniliornis spilogaster) – Nice looks at this Atlantic Forest endemic around intervales. [E]
LITTLE WOODPECKER (Veniliornis passerinus) – One of the most common species in the Pantanal.
WHITE-BROWED WOODPECKER (Piculus aurulentus) – Also known as Yellow-browed Woodpecker.
GREEN-BARRED WOODPECKER (GREEN-BARRED) (Colaptes melanochloros melanochloros) – This species is, in fact, a Flicker.
CAMPO FLICKER (Colaptes campestris) – A widespread species in open areas in Brazil.
CREAM-COLORED WOODPECKER (Celeus flavus) – An Amazonian species that occurs in the Pantanal.
PALE-CRESTED WOODPECKER (Celeus lugubris) – A Pantanal specialty that is the geographical replacement of the Blond-crested Woodpecker.
BLOND-CRESTED WOODPECKER (Celeus flavescens) – This striking woodpecker was certainly one of the highlights of our tour. [E]
LINEATED WOODPECKER (Dryocopus lineatus)
ROBUST WOODPECKER (Campephilus robustus) – A massive bird that is closely related to the Ivory-billed Woodpecker. [E]
CRIMSON-CRESTED WOODPECKER (Campephilus melanoleucos) [*]
Whistling Herons tend to like more grassy habitats than many other herons, and this one was seen in a field near Rio Claro. Photo by participant Lois Wood.
Cariamidae (Seriemas)
RED-LEGGED SERIEMA (Cariama cristata) – We had a pair of birds put on a show for our group at Piuval Lodge in the Pantanal.
Falconidae (Falcons and Caracaras)
SOUTHERN CARACARA (Caracara plancus) – A common sight along the roads of Brazil where they patrol the highways in search of road kill.
YELLOW-HEADED CARACARA (Milvago chimachima)
LAUGHING FALCON (Herpetotheres cachinnans) – We had nice looks at a pair of birds along the Transpantaneira road in the Pantanal.
Psittacidae (New World and African Parrots)
MONK PARAKEET (Myiopsitta monachus) – This species has been introduced to many areas around the world but is native in Brazil and is very abundant in the Pantanal.
PLAIN PARAKEET (Brotogeris tirica) [E]
YELLOW-CHEVRONED PARAKEET (Brotogeris chiriri) – This species is found in the Pantanal where it replaces the endemic Plain Parakeet that we saw in the Pantanal.
PILEATED PARROT (Pionopsitta pileata) [E*]
SCALY-HEADED PARROT (Pionus maximiliani) – We saw two subspecies of this bird on the tour. The melanoblepharus subspecies in the Atlantic Forest and the siy subspecies in the Pantanal.
TURQUOISE-FRONTED PARROT (Amazona aestiva)
ORANGE-WINGED PARROT (Amazona amazonica) – Nice looks at this species in the Pantanal.
BLUE-WINGED PARROTLET (Forpus xanthopterygius) – Great looks at these minute parrots at Iguazu.
MAROON-BELLIED PARAKEET (Pyrrhura frontalis)
HYACINTH MACAW (Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus) – Certainly the most iconic bird of the Pantanal and the largest parrot in the world.
PEACH-FRONTED PARAKEET (Eupsittula aurea) – A few individuals seen in the Pantanal towards the end of our tour.
NANDAY PARAKEET (Aratinga nenday) – This species is quite rare and localized in our tour route but at Rio Claro lodge they are regular visitors of the feeders.
YELLOW-COLLARED MACAW (Primolius auricollis) – This small sized macaw is one of the prettiest species of parrots seen on this tour. We had great looks at them on the Claro river.
BLUE-AND-YELLOW MACAW (Ara ararauna)
WHITE-EYED PARAKEET (Psittacara leucophthalmus) – Seen in flight around the falls at Iguazu.
Yellow-billed Cardinals were a common sight in the Pantanal. Photo by participant Lois Wood.
Thamnophilidae (Typical Antbirds)
SPOT-BACKED ANTSHRIKE (Hypoedaleus guttatus) – A canopy antshrike that is often hard to see as it prefers dense vine thickets. We had extraordinary looks at them around the town of Puerto Iguazu in Argentina. [E]
GIANT ANTSHRIKE (Batara cinerea) – A true beast! We saw two females around Intervales State Park.
TUFTED ANTSHRIKE (Mackenziaena severa) [E]
GREAT ANTSHRIKE (Taraba major) – Great looks at this widespread but often hard to find Antshrike.
WHITE-BEARDED ANTSHRIKE (Biatas nigropectus) – A bamboo specialist that was seen in the scope at Intervales. [E]
BARRED ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus doliatus)
RUFOUS-CAPPED ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus ruficapillus) – This species inhabits marshy areas in the Atlantic Forest. We saw it really well at Intervales.
PLANALTO SLATY-ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus pelzelni) – Formerly known simply at Slaty Antshrike but a recent paper split it into several different species.
VARIABLE ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus caerulescens)
STAR-THROATED ANTWREN (Rhopias gularis) – This minute Antwren lives and forages close to the ground in Atlantic Forest, so we were certainly glad to see it as it gave our necks a much needed break. [E]
PLAIN ANTVIREO (Dysithamnus mentalis)
LARGE-BILLED ANTWREN (Herpsilochmus longirostris) – A canopy antwren that was seen nicely at Intervales.
RUFOUS-WINGED ANTWREN (Herpsilochmus rufimarginatus) – The geographical replacement of the Large-billed Antwren in the Atlantic Forest.
BLACK-BELLIED ANTWREN (Formicivora melanogaster) – A scarce species that barely occurs in the Pantanal but we knew exactly where to look for it and got great looks at it.
RUSTY-BACKED ANTWREN (Formicivora rufa) – Closely related to the Black-bellied Antwren but more abundant in the Pantanal.
FERRUGINOUS ANTBIRD (Drymophila ferruginea) – Great looks at this colorful antbird during our visit to Intervales. [E]
This large White-throated Woodcreeper showed well for us. Photo by participant Lois Wood.
BERTONI'S ANTBIRD (Drymophila rubricollis) [E]
OCHRE-RUMPED ANTBIRD (Drymophila ochropyga) – Always a hard one to see but with some persistence we saw one at Intervales. [E]
DUSKY-TAILED ANTBIRD (Drymophila malura)
STREAK-CAPPED ANTWREN (Terenura maculata) – A minute antwren that lives in the Canopy so it was hard to see it well but we did get a look at it on a few days of our tour. [E]
MATO GROSSO ANTBIRD (Cercomacra melanaria) – A Pantanal specialist that was seen well during a boat outing at Rio Claro.
WHITE-SHOULDERED FIRE-EYE (Pyriglena leucoptera) – We had great looks at this Atlantic forest endemic that tends to follow army ants. [E]
BAND-TAILED ANTBIRD (Hypocnemoides maculicauda) – An Amazonian bird that has in the northern Pantanal its Southern limit. We had great looks at them by the river as they are always close to water.
SQUAMATE ANTBIRD (Myrmoderus squamosus) – This species forages in the leaf litter and lives close to the ground. We had great looks at one during our stay at Intervales.
Conopophagidae (Gnateaters)
RUFOUS GNATEATER (Conopophaga lineata) – We had great looks at this unique bird and we even got to see its white "ear" tufts that are only displayed when the bird is excited.
Grallariidae (Antpittas)
VARIEGATED ANTPITTA (Grallaria varia) – Always a treat to see these shy forest birds. We heard one at Intervales and managed to walk around a trail and get brief looks at one.
Rhinocryptidae (Tapaculos)
SPOTTED BAMBOOWREN (Psilorhamphus guttatus) – This shy bamboo specialist is often heard but rarely seen, so we were very fortunate to see one.
SLATY BRISTLEFRONT (Merulaxis ater) – The birds from Intervales are currently treated as Slaty Bristlefront but research is being conducted and they will probably be described as a new species in the near future. [E]
WHITE-BREASTED TAPACULO (Eleoscytalopus indigoticus) – Tapaculos are famous for being difficult to see and this guy is no exception but with a lot of work we managed to lay eyes on it near the entrance gate of Intervales State Park
MOUSE-COLORED TAPACULO (Scytalopus speluncae) – Another species that may be described as a new taxon in the future. [E]
Formicariidae (Antthrushes)
RUFOUS-CAPPED ANTTHRUSH (Formicarius colma)
SHORT-TAILED ANTTHRUSH (Chamaeza campanisona) – Fabulous scope views of this intricately patterned Antthrush during our visit to Intervales.
This flock of Turquoise-fronted Parrots was photographed by participant Jan Wood.
Furnariidae (Ovenbirds and Woodcreepers)
RUFOUS-BREASTED LEAFTOSSER (Sclerurus scansor) [E]
OLIVACEOUS WOODCREEPER (OLIVACEOUS) (Sittasomus griseicapillus sylviellus) – Keep track of where you see this species as there are many different races involved in the taxon and they all present strong differences in plumage and song. [E]
PLAIN-WINGED WOODCREEPER (Dendrocincla turdina) – Good looks at this species during our visit to the Brazilian side of the falls. [E]
WHITE-THROATED WOODCREEPER (Xiphocolaptes albicollis) [E]
GREAT RUFOUS WOODCREEPER (Xiphocolaptes major) – This massive woodcreeper was seen very well in the Pantanal.
LESSER WOODCREEPER (LESSER) (Xiphorhynchus fuscus fuscus) [E]
BUFF-THROATED WOODCREEPER (Xiphorhynchus guttatus) – There are several subspecies of this Woodcreeper. We saw one in the Pantanal that belongs to the dorbignyanus subspecies.
STRAIGHT-BILLED WOODCREEPER (Dendroplex picus) – Seen during a boat outing at Piuval Lodge.
RED-BILLED SCYTHEBILL (Campylorhamphus trochilirostris) – A fascinating bird that uses its curved and thin bill to probe cracks and holes in trees in search of small invertebrates.
NARROW-BILLED WOODCREEPER (Lepidocolaptes angustirostris) – The most common Woodcreeper in the Pantanal.
SCALLOPED WOODCREEPER (Lepidocolaptes falcinellus) [E]
STREAKED XENOPS (Xenops rutilans)
PALE-LEGGED HORNERO (Furnarius leucopus) – Always found close to rivers in the Pantanal.
RUFOUS HORNERO (Furnarius rufus) – This species is the national bird of Argentina. We saw several of them including some building their characteristic nest that gives the family the name of ovenbirds.
SHARP-TAILED STREAMCREEPER (Lochmias nematura nematura) – Although this species is quite widespread, it can be hard to find sometimes.
WHITE-COLLARED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Anabazenops fuscus) – Arguably one of the most striking Foliage-gleaners with its bright rufous color contrasting with the pure white collar. [E]
Participant Jan Wood captured this Rufous Hornero peeking out of its distinctive nest at us.
PALE-BROWED TREEHUNTER (Cichlocolaptes leucophrus) – This species specializes in probing for food in bromeliads in the canopy and therefore is quite hard to see, but we had a great look at one of them sitting in a low tree during our visit to intervales. [E]
SHARP-BILLED TREEHUNTER (Heliobletus contaminatus) – Seen foraging with a mixed species flock at intervales. [E]
BLACK-CAPPED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Philydor atricapillus) – Another species that was seen traveling with mixed species flocks during our stay at Intervales state park. [E]
BUFF-FRONTED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Philydor rufum) – The most common Foliage-gleaner on this tour.
WHITE-BROWED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Anabacerthia amaurotis) [E]
OCHRE-BREASTED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Anabacerthia lichtensteini) – Particularly common around Iguazu. [E]
BUFF-BROWED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Syndactyla rufosuperciliata)
WHITE-EYED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Automolus leucophthalmus) [E]
ARAUCARIA TIT-SPINETAIL (Leptasthenura setaria) – This species is not native from the areas around Intervales but the Araucaria trees have been introduced to the area and they have colonized the trees.
RUFOUS-FRONTED THORNBIRD (Phacellodomus rufifrons) – These small thornbirds build impressive nests that can be up to six feet long.
GREATER THORNBIRD (Phacellodomus ruber) – Common in marshy areas in the Pantanal.
ORANGE-BREASTED THORNBIRD (Phacellodomus ferrugineigula) – This species replaces the Greater Thornbird in the marshes of Intervales.
RUSTY-BACKED SPINETAIL (Cranioleuca vulpina) – Great looks at these handsome spinetails along the rivers of the Pantanal.
PALLID SPINETAIL (Cranioleuca pallida) – An arboreal spinetail that was seen nicely during our time at Intervales. [E]
RUFOUS CACHOLOTE (Pseudoseisura unirufa) – Also known as Gray-crested Cacholote.
YELLOW-CHINNED SPINETAIL (Certhiaxis cinnamomeus) – Common and widespread.
Streamer-tailed Tyrants were displaying when we located them on our way to Intervales. Photo by participant Jan Wood.
CHOTOY SPINETAIL (Schoeniophylax phryganophilus) – The only member of its genus (and what a mouthful that is) that was seen nicely in the Pantanal showing its characteristic yellow and black throat.
GRAY-BELLIED SPINETAIL (Synallaxis cinerascens) – We accidentally saw one at intervales as we were calling another bird out. This was very fortunate as this is always a very difficult species to see. [E]
WHITE-LORED SPINETAIL (Synallaxis albilora)
RUFOUS-CAPPED SPINETAIL (Synallaxis ruficapilla) – This bird is living proof that rufous birds can be colorful.
SPIX'S SPINETAIL (Synallaxis spixi)
SOOTY-FRONTED SPINETAIL (Synallaxis frontalis) – Seen on our last day in the Pantanal. This is another species that barely makes it into the Pantanal and was seen nicely during our stay at Piuval.
Tyrannidae (Tyrant Flycatchers)
SOUTHERN BEARDLESS-TYRANNULET (Camptostoma obsoletum)
YELLOW TYRANNULET (Capsiempis flaveola) – Great looks at these bamboo specialists on route 101 in the Argentine side of the falls.
FOREST ELAENIA (Myiopagis gaimardii)
GRAY ELAENIA (Myiopagis caniceps)
GREENISH ELAENIA (Myiopagis viridicata)
YELLOW-BELLIED ELAENIA (Elaenia flavogaster) – This species is very widespread and common even though we did not see it many times on the tour. Our best look at one was at Intervales in the marsh near the entrance of the park.
LARGE ELAENIA (Elaenia spectabilis) – Seen in the Pantanal.
HIGHLAND ELAENIA (Elaenia obscura)
SOOTY TYRANNULET (Serpophaga nigricans) – We saw this minute flycatcher in the reeds by a lake at Intervales.
GRAY-HOODED FLYCATCHER (Mionectes rufiventris) – An Atlantic forest endemic that was seen nicely at Intervales a couple of times. [E]
This is one of the pair of Sunbitterns that we saw at Piuval Lodge. Photo by participant Lois Wood.
SEPIA-CAPPED FLYCATCHER (Leptopogon amaurocephalus)
SOUTHERN BRISTLE-TYRANT (Phylloscartes eximius) – Iguazu is probably the best place to see this scarce and rare flycatcher that occurs in a very small area. [E]
MOTTLE-CHEEKED TYRANNULET (Phylloscartes ventralis)
SAO PAULO TYRANNULET (Phylloscartes paulista) – Seen both at Intervales and Iguazu moving through the canopy with mixed species flocks. [E]
OUSTALET'S TYRANNULET (Phylloscartes oustaleti) – The genus Phylloscartes can be quite hard to identify but this species has the habit of jiggling its tail making it easy to identify it.
BAY-RINGED TYRANNULET (Phylloscartes sylviolus) – This species lives in the highest strata of the canopy and therefore is quite hard to see. We had one in the scope at Intervales. [E]
PLANALTO TYRANNULET (Phyllomyias fasciatus) – Seen on our first day at Intervales.
GRAY-CAPPED TYRANNULET (Phyllomyias griseocapilla) [E*]
SOUTHERN ANTPIPIT (Corythopis delalandi) – Great looks at this flycatcher during our stay at Intervales.
EARED PYGMY-TYRANT (Myiornis auricularis) – The genus Myiornis has the smallest passerines in the world, so they are always hard to see but we had great looks at them during our stay at Intevales. [E]
EYE-RINGED TODY-TYRANT (Hemitriccus orbitatus) – Seen at Iguazu. This was the first time we ever saw this species on this tour.
STRIPE-NECKED TODY-TYRANT (Hemitriccus striaticollis) – Seen along the river in the Pantanal.
HANGNEST TODY-TYRANT (Hemitriccus nidipendulus) – Despite being named for the shape of its nest, this is not a characteristic unique to this species. On the contrary it is a trait that is shared by many species of flycatchers. [E]
PEARLY-VENTED TODY-TYRANT (Hemitriccus margaritaceiventer) – Great views in the Pantanal.
OCHRE-FACED TODY-FLYCATCHER (Poecilotriccus plumbeiceps) – Its flatulent song makes it an easy bird to identify by song.
RUSTY-FRONTED TODY-FLYCATCHER (Poecilotriccus latirostris)
Guira Cuckoos really do resemble small, fluffy dinosaurs! Participant Lois Wood took this very nice portrait of one sunning on a fencepost.
GRAY-HEADED TODY-FLYCATCHER (Todirostrum poliocephalum) – Formerly known as Yellow-lored Tody-flycatcher. [E]
COMMON TODY-FLYCATCHER (Todirostrum cinereum)
YELLOW-OLIVE FLYCATCHER (MATO GROSSO) (Tolmomyias sulphurescens pallescens)
YELLOW-OLIVE FLYCATCHER (SOORETAMA) (Tolmomyias sulphurescens sulphurescens) – We saw two forms of this species, both of which have a very distinctive song and some plumage differences. This one was seen at Intervales and the Mato Grosso group was seen in the Pantanal.
WHITE-THROATED SPADEBILL (Platyrinchus mystaceus)
BRAN-COLORED FLYCATCHER (Myiophobus fasciatus) – We had good looks at this discreet flycatcher at a marshy area in a village near Intervales.
EULER'S FLYCATCHER (EULER'S) (Lathrotriccus euleri euleri)
FUSCOUS FLYCATCHER (Cnemotriccus fuscatus)
GRAY MONJITA (Xolmis cinereus) – Good looks at this striking Monjita on our way to Intervales on the first day.
WHITE-RUMPED MONJITA (Xolmis velatus) – Seen in the Pantanal on the access road to Piuval lodge.
STREAMER-TAILED TYRANT (Gubernetes yetapa) – We made a strategic stop en route to intervales and got great looks at these spectacular flycatchers performing their unique display.
SHEAR-TAILED GRAY TYRANT (Muscipipra vetula) [E*]
MASKED WATER-TYRANT (Fluvicola nengeta) – Another charismatic flycatcher that has a unique display that was seen nicely at Intervales.
WHITE-HEADED MARSH TYRANT (Arundinicola leucocephala) – Seen on our very last day in the Pantanal as we headed back to the airport in Cuiaba.
CATTLE TYRANT (Machetornis rixosa) – At first this small flycatcher does not look very interesting but careful observation reveals a bird with a fascinating life history and an impressive display that features a crimson red crest.
RUFOUS-TAILED ATTILA (Attila phoenicurus)
Snail Kites were quite common in the Pantanal during our visit. Photo by participant Jan Wood.
GRAY-HOODED ATTILA (Attila rufus) – Great looks at this species during our stay at Intervales. [E]
SIBILANT SIRYSTES (Sirystes sibilator sibilator) – Formerly known simply as Sirystes but this species was split recently and this species, which is the nominate, became the Sibilant Sirystes.
RUFOUS CASIORNIS (Casiornis rufus) – We had good looks at this species in the dry forests of Piuval Lodge in the Pantanal.
SWAINSON'S FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus swainsoni) – Seen right from the balcony of our lodge at Intervales.
SHORT-CRESTED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus ferox) – A common species in the Pantanal.
LESSER KISKADEE (Pitangus lictor) – We had many of these miniature Kiskadees along the rivers of the Pantanal.
GREAT KISKADEE (Pitangus sulphuratus) – One of the most common species in Brazil inhabiting cities and semi open areas of the country.
BOAT-BILLED FLYCATCHER (Megarynchus pitangua)
SOCIAL FLYCATCHER (Myiozetetes similis)
THREE-STRIPED FLYCATCHER (Conopias trivirgatus) – This medium sized flycatcher lives in the very top of trees in forested areas, making it a particularly challenging bird to see, but we had them in the scope at Intervales.
STREAKED FLYCATCHER (Myiodynastes maculatus)
PIRATIC FLYCATCHER (Legatus leucophaius) – The name of this species derives from its habit of driving birds out of their nests to occupy it and raise its young in it.
VARIEGATED FLYCATCHER (Empidonomus varius)
TROPICAL KINGBIRD (Tyrannus melancholicus) – Seen on most days of the tour.
This lovely Orange-backed Troupial provided a spot of color for us. Photo by participant Lois Wood.
Cotingidae (Cotingas)
HOODED BERRYEATER (Carpornis cucullata) – A great spot by our local guide at Intervales.
RED-RUFFED FRUITCROW (Pyroderus scutatus) – This massive bird is the largest of the Cotingas.
CINNAMON-VENTED PIHA (Lipaugus lanioides)
BARE-THROATED BELLBIRD (Procnias nudicollis) – Bellbirds are hard to find during this time of year as they are silent. We spotted a very distant one at Intervales and managed to get good scope views of it.
Pipridae (Manakins)
SERRA DO MAR TYRANT-MANAKIN (Neopelma chrysolophum) – Manakins are often colorful but this one belongs to the genus Neopelma which consists of generally drab birds, but this is a range restricted species and we were lucky to get a good look at one during our stay at Intervales State Park. [E]
HELMETED MANAKIN (Antilophia galeata)
SWALLOW-TAILED MANAKIN (Chiroxiphia caudata) – Jan spotted this very colorful manakin that used to be known as Blue Manakin on a trail at Intervales. [E]
BAND-TAILED MANAKIN (Pipra fasciicauda) [*]
WING-BARRED PIPRITES (Piprites chloris) – This species has seven different subspecies and the one we saw at Intervales is the nominate which is quite disjunct from other populations.
Tityridae (Tityras and Allies)
BLACK-TAILED TITYRA (Tityra cayana) – The most common of the Tityras.
GREENISH SCHIFFORNIS (Schiffornis virescens) – Often heard but seldom seen. We had good looks at one during our visit to Intervales. [E]
GREEN-BACKED BECARD (Pachyramphus viridis) – This Becard is particularly colorful.
CHESTNUT-CROWNED BECARD (Pachyramphus castaneus) – Several individuals seen at Intervales.
WHITE-WINGED BECARD (Pachyramphus polychopterus)
CRESTED BECARD (Pachyramphus validus)
The Southern Crested Caracara looks very much like the northern version that U.S. birders are familiar with, and it has similar behavior as well. Photo by participant Jan Wood.
Vireonidae (Vireos, Shrike-Babblers, and Erpornis)
RUFOUS-BROWED PEPPERSHRIKE (Cyclarhis gujanensis)
RUFOUS-CROWNED GREENLET (Hylophilus poicilotis) – Often seen traveling with mixed species flocks at Intervales. [E]
ASHY-HEADED GREENLET (Hylophilus pectoralis) – Seen in the Pantanal where it is a somewhat common species.
RED-EYED VIREO (MIGRATORY CHIVI) (Vireo olivaceus chivi)
Corvidae (Crows, Jays, and Magpies)
PURPLISH JAY (Cyanocorax cyanomelas) – A common species in the Pantanal.
CURL-CRESTED JAY (Cyanocorax cristatellus) – We stumbled upon a group of these birds on our way back to Sao Paulo from Intervales. This species is expanding its range with the clearing of forested areas.
PLUSH-CRESTED JAY (Cyanocorax chrysops) – A striking jay that is common around Iguazu where they have become accustomed to the human presence and are quite conspicuous.
Hirundinidae (Swallows)
BLUE-AND-WHITE SWALLOW (Pygochelidon cyanoleuca)
GRAY-BREASTED MARTIN (Progne chalybea) – A common species often found in gas stations and perched on radio towers in the Pantanal.
BROWN-CHESTED MARTIN (Progne tapera) – Particularly common in the pantanal where they breed during this time of the year.
WHITE-WINGED SWALLOW (Tachycineta albiventer) – Common near water along our tour route. They often sit on the railings of the trail to the Devil's Throat.
BARN SWALLOW (Hirundo rustica) – A boreal migrant that was seen migrating in the Pantanal.
Troglodytidae (Wrens)
HOUSE WREN (Troglodytes aedon)
THRUSH-LIKE WREN (Campylorhynchus turdinus) – We had this species in Puerto Iguazu and in the Pantanal. Both individuals belong to the unicolor subspecies that is quite different from the amazonian counterparts.
MOUSTACHED WREN (Pheugopedius genibarbis) – Always a hard bird to see but we had good looks at them in the Pantanal.
BUFF-BREASTED WREN (Cantorchilus leucotis)
Polioptilidae (Gnatcatchers)
CREAMY-BELLIED GNATCATCHER (Polioptila lactea) – An Iguazu specialty that was seen extremely well at Intervales. [E]
MASKED GNATCATCHER (Polioptila dumicola) – Common in the Pantanal.
We were happy to find this Ochre-collared Piculet in the forest at Intervales. Photo by participant Jan Wood.
Donacobiidae (Donacobius)
BLACK-CAPPED DONACOBIUS (Donacobius atricapilla) – It is always a treat to see this species performing its "dancing" display.
Turdidae (Thrushes and Allies)
YELLOW-LEGGED THRUSH (Turdus flavipes) – Despite being a common species in the Atlantic forest, this species is quite shy and can be hard to see well. We had a few sightings of males with their bright legs, bill and eye rings.
PALE-BREASTED THRUSH (Turdus leucomelas) – The most common Thrush on our tour route.
RUFOUS-BELLIED THRUSH (Turdus rufiventris) – This species is the national bird of Brazil.
Mimidae (Mockingbirds and Thrashers)
CHALK-BROWED MOCKINGBIRD (Mimus saturninus)
Parulidae (New World Warblers)
MASKED YELLOWTHROAT (Geothlypis aequinoctialis) – A nice male was seen in a village near Intervales State Park.
TROPICAL PARULA (Setophaga pitiayumi) – A common species with the mixed species flocks at Iguazu.
GOLDEN-CROWNED WARBLER (Basileuterus culicivorus) – Common at Intervales.
FLAVESCENT WARBLER (Myiothlypis flaveola) – Seen at Piuval lodge in the dry forest habitat.
WHITE-BROWED WARBLER (Myiothlypis leucoblephara) – Formerly known as White-rimmed Warbler. [E]
RIVERBANK WARBLER (Myiothlypis rivularis) – Seen at Iguazu where it is a common species.
Thraupidae (Tanagers and Allies)
BROWN TANAGER (Orchesticus abeillei) – Always a hard bird to find and the only member of its genus. [E]
RED-CRESTED CARDINAL (Paroaria coronata) – Seen at the feeders of Rio Claro Lodge in the Pantanal.
YELLOW-BILLED CARDINAL (Paroaria capitata) – A common sight in the Pantanal.
MAGPIE TANAGER (Cissopis leverianus) – Great looks at this strange tanager on a trail near Puerto Iguazu.
BUFF-THROATED WARBLING-FINCH (Microspingus lateralis) – Good looks at this species just outside the gates of Intervales.
We saw several different seedeaters, including the attractive Rusty-collared Seedeater pictured here. Photo by participant Lois Wood.
BLACK-GOGGLED TANAGER (Trichothraupis melanops)
GRAY-HEADED TANAGER (Eucometis penicillata) – Seen nicely in the Pantanal.
RUBY-CROWNED TANAGER (Tachyphonus coronatus) – The ruby colored crown for which this species is named is hard to see and is only found on the male. We had them visiting the feeders at Intervales regularly but never got a good look a the crown. [E]
SILVER-BEAKED TANAGER (Ramphocelus carbo)
DIADEMED TANAGER (Stephanophorus diadematus) – Great views of this colorful tanager right outside our lodge at Intervales. [E]
SAYACA TANAGER (Thraupis sayaca) – This species is closely related to the Blue-gray Tanager that is common in the Amazon.
AZURE-SHOULDERED TANAGER (Thraupis cyanoptera) – Very similar to the more common Sayaca Tanager. We had them visiting the feeders at Intervales and even had them next to Sayaca Tanagers allowing us to compare them in the field and point out their differences side by side.
GOLDEN-CHEVRONED TANAGER (Thraupis ornata) – Another species that visited the feeders at Intervales completing an amazing three birds of the genus Thraupis. [E]
GREEN-HEADED TANAGER (Tangara seledon) – Despite being common this species never fails to impress anyone who lays their eyes on it. [E]
GILT-EDGED TANAGER (Tangara cyanoventris)
SWALLOW TANAGER (Tersina viridis) – Great looks at this colorful tanager at Iguazu.
BLACK-LEGGED DACNIS (Dacnis nigripes) – This was a very nice find at Intervales. This species is rare and hard to find. We had good looks at a pair of birds feeding with a flock.
BLUE DACNIS (Dacnis cayana) – Much more common than the Black-legged Dacnis but always a treat to see.
GUIRA TANAGER (Hemithraupis guira) – Seen nicely at Iguazu.
RUFOUS-HEADED TANAGER (Hemithraupis ruficapilla) [E]
CHESTNUT-VENTED CONEBILL (Conirostrum speciosum)
Striated Herons were common in the Pantanal. Photo by participant Lois Wood.
UNIFORM FINCH (Haplospiza unicolor) – A bamboo specialist that was seen in good numbers at Intervales indicating that there is a good chance that bamboo will be seeding soon here. [E]
SAFFRON FINCH (Sicalis flaveola) – One of the most common species in the Pantanal.
BLUE-BLACK GRASSQUIT (Volatinia jacarina) – Common in pastures and disturbed areas.
LINED SEEDEATER (Sporophila lineola) – Common around the open areas at Intervales.
WHITE-BELLIED SEEDEATER (Sporophila leucoptera) – Several individuals seen in the Pantanal.
CHESTNUT-BELLIED SEED-FINCH (Sporophila angolensis) – Another species that was seen well in the Pantanal.
DOUBLE-COLLARED SEEDEATER (Sporophila caerulescens)
BUFFY-FRONTED SEEDEATER (Sporophila frontalis) – This is another Bamboo specialist that was found in good numbers at Intervales this year.
RUSTY-COLLARED SEEDEATER (Sporophila collaris)
RED-CRESTED FINCH (Coryphospingus cucullatus) – Spectacular views of a male displaying its brilliant red crest bordered by black lines at Piuval lodge in the Pantanal. [E]
BANANAQUIT (Coereba flaveola) – Common at the hummingbird feeders at Iguazu.
GRAYISH SALTATOR (Saltator coerulescens) – A common sight in the Pantanal.
BLACK-THROATED GROSBEAK (Saltator fuliginosus) – It took quite a bit of work but we managed to bring in a male for close inspection at Intervales. [E]
Passerellidae (New World Buntings and Sparrows)
GRASSLAND SPARROW (Ammodramus humeralis) – A close relative of the Grasshopper Sparrow from North America.
HALF-COLLARED SPARROW (Arremon semitorquatus) – Seen nicely on the road that leads to Intervales State Park.
SAFFRON-BILLED SPARROW (Arremon flavirostris)
RUFOUS-COLLARED SPARROW (Zonotrichia capensis) – Common and widespread in South America.
Short-crested Flycatcher looks like many other Myiarchus species. Photo by participant Jan Wood.
Cardinalidae (Cardinals and Allies)
RED-CROWNED ANT-TANAGER (Habia rubica) – This species is a flock leader of understory flocks in the Atlantic Forest. We saw them well at Iguazu.
Icteridae (Troupials and Allies)
CRESTED OROPENDOLA (Psarocolius decumanus)
SOLITARY BLACK CACIQUE (Cacicus solitarius)
GOLDEN-WINGED CACIQUE (Cacicus chrysopterus)
RED-RUMPED CACIQUE (Cacicus haemorrhous)
VARIABLE ORIOLE (YELLOW-SHOULDERED) (Icterus pyrrhopterus tibialis) – We saw this species in three different locations and we saw three different subspecies of them. This one was seen near Intervales.
VARIABLE ORIOLE (CHESTNUT-SHOULDERED) (Icterus pyrrhopterus pyrrhopterus) – Seen at Iguazu.
VARIABLE ORIOLE (CHESTNUT-SHOULDERED) (Icterus pyrrhopterus periporphyrus) – Seen in the Pantanal.
ORANGE-BACKED TROUPIAL (Icterus croconotus) – A close relative of the Orioles of North America.
SHINY COWBIRD (Molothrus bonariensis)
GIANT COWBIRD (Molothrus oryzivorus)
SCARLET-HEADED BLACKBIRD (Amblyramphus holosericeus) – This incredible Blackbird was one of the highlights of the Pantanal.
CHOPI BLACKBIRD (Gnorimopsar chopi)
GRAYISH BAYWING (Agelaioides badius) – Formerly knonw as Baywing Cowbird but the species was recently split and this species is not a cowbird so the name was changed.
UNICOLORED BLACKBIRD (Agelasticus cyanopus)
CHESTNUT-CAPPED BLACKBIRD (Chrysomus ruficapillus) – Seen in the marshes outside of Intervales State Park.
Capybaras are the world's largest rodents, and were a common sight in the Pantanal. Photo by participant Jan Wood.
YELLOW-RUMPED MARSHBIRD (Pseudoleistes guirahuro)
Fringillidae (Finches, Euphonias, and Allies)
BLUE-NAPED CHLOROPHONIA (Chlorophonia cyanea)
PURPLE-THROATED EUPHONIA (Euphonia chlorotica)
VIOLACEOUS EUPHONIA (Euphonia violacea) – Great looks at this species at the hummingbird feeders at Iguazu.
GREEN-THROATED EUPHONIA (Euphonia chalybea) – Formerly known as Green-chinned Euphonia.
CHESTNUT-BELLIED EUPHONIA (Euphonia pectoralis) [E]
HOODED SISKIN (Spinus magellanicus) – We had some distant views of this species in a pasture near intervales.
Passeridae (Old World Sparrows)
HOUSE SPARROW (Passer domesticus)
MAMMALS
LESSER BULLDOG BAT (Noctilio albiventris) – Sometimes called a fishing bat. We saw them feeding over a pond in the Pantanal.
BLACK-TAILED MARMOSET (Callithrix (Mico) melanura)
BROWN HOWLER MONKEY (Alouatta fuscus) [*]
BROWN CAPUCHIN (Cebus apella) [*]
BRAZILIAN RABBIT (Sylvilagus brasiliensis)
GUIANAN SQUIRREL (Sciurus aestuans) – Only seen by Lisa at Intervales.
CAPYBARA (Hydrochaeris hydrochaeris)
AZARA'S AGOUTI (Dasyprocta azarae)
Participant Lois Wood photographed this amazing Boie's Frog. Wouldn't this image make a great jig-saw puzzle?
CRAB-EATING FOX (Cerdocyon thous)
SOUTH AMERICAN COATI (Nasua nasua)
GIANT OTTER (Pteronura brasiliensis)
MARSH DEER (Blastocerus dichotomus)
RED BROCKET DEER (Mazama americana)
Herps
GREEN IGUANA (Iguana iguana)
GOLDEN TEGU (Tupinambis teguixin)
PARAGUAYAN CAIMAN (Caiman yacare)
YELLOW-LEGGED TORTOISE (Chelonoidis denticulata)
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
We also saw a Proceratophrys boiei (Boie's Frog). A fascinating creature that blends perfectly with the leaf litter.
Totals for the tour: 390 bird taxa and 13 mammal taxa