This was a special year for our Brazil Nutshell tour. First and foremost, we saw every species of owl that we could have seen tallying up 10 species of Owls seen well during our tour. We also saw an unusual number of Tinamous with excellent looks at Solitary, Small-billed and Undulated. Crakes? Of course we saw them. Rufous-sided, Russet-crowned and Red-and-white were seen well as were the Spot-winged Wood-quail that visited the feeder at Intervales. We also saw the endangered Black-fronted Piping-guan, while sipping champagne with the majestic Iguazu falls in the background as thousands of Great Dusky Swifts rained from the sky. In the Pantanal, we enjoyed wonderful looks at the gorgeous Hyacinth Macaws, and woke up to the sounds of the noisy Chaco Chachalacas, searched for and found the illusive Zigzag Heron not once, but twice, and watched a Jaguar long enough to tire from it and move on to look for new birds. Weather favored us on most days and we had a lovely group to enjoy it with. We soaked in the best that Brazil ( and Argentina) had to offer, with excellent food (often accompanied by great birds visiting feeders), incredible scenery and abundant wildlife.
I thoroughly enjoyed it and hope that all of you have memories as beautiful as the ones I have kept from the lovely days we spent in the field together and I hope that we can do it again someday in another part of the world.
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
GREATER RHEA (Rhea americana)
A common sight in the Pantanal
SOLITARY TINAMOU (Tinamus solitarius)
This is usually a very hard species to see, but we saw one in the middle of the road as we returned to the lodge from the Carmo Road at Intervales. It even returned to the road for better looks at it when we stopped the vehicles and waited for it.
UNDULATED TINAMOU (Crypturellus undulatus)
Like most tinamous, this species is often heard but rarely seen. We had a good look at one in the Pantanal.
SMALL-BILLED TINAMOU (Crypturellus parvirostris)
Yet another tinamou that we saw in the Pantanal.
RED-WINGED TINAMOU (Rhynchotus rufescens) [*]
SOUTHERN SCREAMER (Chauna torquata)
We had good looks at this species in the Pantanal.
BLACK-BELLIED WHISTLING-DUCK (Dendrocygna autumnalis)
Seen in large numbers in the Pantanal
MUSCOVY DUCK (Cairina moschata)
Seen both at Intervales and in the Pantanal where it was relatively common
BRAZILIAN TEAL (Amazonetta brasiliensis)
Multiple sightings in the Pantanal
CHACO CHACHALACA (Ortalis canicollis)
It is simply impossible to visit the Pantanal and not see and hear this species.
DUSKY-LEGGED GUAN (Penelope obscura) [*]
CHESTNUT-BELLIED GUAN (Penelope ochrogaster)
Great looks at this species visiting the feeders at Rio Claro lodge in the Pantanal
BLACK-FRONTED PIPING-GUAN (Pipile jacutinga) [E]
This was one of the highlights of the tour. We were having a picnic at the veranda of our lovely hotel in Iguazu when this endemic and endangered species flew into the trees right in front of us.
BARE-FACED CURASSOW (Crax fasciolata)
Multiple good looks in the Pantanal. Curassows are rare and shy in most places but in the Pantanal they are pretty confiding, even coming to the feeders at the lodge.
SPOT-WINGED WOOD-QUAIL (Odontophorus capueira) [E]
It was magical to watch these birds visiting the feeding station at Intervales State Park.
ROCK PIGEON (Columba livia)
PALE-VENTED PIGEON (Patagioenas cayennensis)
Common in the Pantanal.
PICAZURO PIGEON (Patagioenas picazuro)
Widespread and abundant. This is the standard large pigeon on this tour.
RUDDY GROUND DOVE (Columbina talpacoti)
Seen on all three stops of our tour.
SCALED DOVE (Columbina squammata)
A close relative of the Inca Dove that we saw well in the Pantanal
PICUI GROUND DOVE (Columbina picui)
Seen in Cuiaba as we headed to the Pantanal
LONG-TAILED GROUND DOVE (Uropelia campestris)
We had multiple good looks at these ornate Ground Doves in the Pantanal
WHITE-TIPPED DOVE (Leptotila verreauxi)
Multiple sightings in Iguazu and in the Pantanal
EARED DOVE (Zenaida auriculata)
Common around Intervales and Iguazu but absent in the Pantanal
GUIRA CUCKOO (Guira guira)
Always fun to watch these tiny dinosaurs foraging on the ground in the Pantanal.
GREATER ANI (Crotophaga major)
This species migrates locally and was present in good numbers in the Pantanal.
SMOOTH-BILLED ANI (Crotophaga ani)
A common species in open areas and pastures
STRIPED CUCKOO (Tapera naevia)
This species is heard often but rarely seen. We had good looks at one in the Pantanal.
SQUIRREL CUCKOO (Piaya cayana)
Multiple good looks around Iguazu.
NACUNDA NIGHTHAWK (Chordeiles nacunda)
The largest of the Nighthawks. We saw it in the Pantanal.
SHORT-TAILED NIGHTHAWK (NATTERERI) (Lurocalis semitorquatus nattereri)
We spotted one of these from the restaurant at Intevales.
BAND-TAILED NIGHTHAWK (Nyctiprogne leucopyga)
Seen at dawn flying over the river in the Pantanal.
COMMON PAURAQUE (Nyctidromus albicollis)
SPOT-TAILED NIGHTJAR (Hydropsalis maculicaudus)
Seen just by Wayne and myself.
GREAT POTOO (Nyctibius grandis)
A couple of sightings in the Pantanal.
COMMON POTOO (Nyctibius griseus)
Betinho had one staked out for us at Intevales and we saw it right by the reception at Intervales.
GREAT DUSKY SWIFT (Cypseloides senex) [E]
One of the stars at Iguazu. We enjoyed beautiful looks at them at sunset going to roost behind the falls.
WHITE-COLLARED SWIFT (Streptoprocne zonaris)
We had regular looks at flocks flying over Intervales.
BLACK JACOBIN (Florisuga fusca) [E]
Seen at Intervales and later on again visiting the hummingbird feeders in the Pantanal.
DUSKY-THROATED HERMIT (Phaethornis squalidus)
Multiple looks at Intervales.
BUFF-BELLIED HERMIT (Phaethornis subochraceus)
We saw this range restricted hermit in the Pantanal.
PLANALTO HERMIT (Phaethornis pretrei)
A single individual visiting the feeders at Iguazu
SCALE-THROATED HERMIT (Phaethornis eurynome) [E]
Another species of Hermit that was somewhat common around Intervales.
WHITE-TAILED GOLDENTHROAT (Polytmus guainumbi)
A couple of sightings in the Pantanal. This species favors wet areas.
BLACK-THROATED MANGO (Anthracothorax nigricollis)
One of the most common species at the hummingbird feeders at Iguazu.
BRAZILIAN RUBY (Heliodoxa rubricauda) [E]
We had nice looks at this species feeding on some fuchsia flowers.
GLITTERING-BELLIED EMERALD (Chlorostilbon lucidus)
Seen at Intervales and Iguazu.
PURPLE-CROWNED PLOVERCREST (Stephanoxis loddigesii)
VIOLET-CAPPED WOODNYMPH (Thalurania glaucopis) [E]
Multiple sightings both at Intervales and Iguazu
FORK-TAILED WOODNYMPH (Thalurania furcata)
Seen in route from Cuiaba to the Pantanal
SWALLOW-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD (Eupetomena macroura)
VERSICOLORED EMERALD (Chrysuronia versicolor)
Seen at Intervales and at the feeders at the hummingbird garden in Puerto Iguazu.
WHITE-THROATED HUMMINGBIRD (Leucochloris albicollis)
Seen at Iguazu on the Brazilian side of the falls
GLITTERING-THROATED EMERALD (Chionomesa fimbriata)
The most common species of hummingbird in the Pantanal
GILDED HUMMINGBIRD (Hylocharis chrysura)
Seen visiting the feeders at Iguazu and later on in the Pantanal
BLACKISH RAIL (Pardirallus nigricans)
After hearing it over and over again we finally connected with one at the marsh on route 101 in Iguazu.
GRAY-COWLED WOOD-RAIL (Aramides cajaneus)
Common in the Pantanal.
SLATY-BREASTED WOOD-RAIL (Aramides saracura) [E]
Multiple sightings around Intervales.
COMMON GALLINULE (Gallinula galeata)
Seen in a lake at Intervales.
PURPLE GALLINULE (Porphyrio martinica)
We had a nice look at this species along the Transpantaneira in the Pantanal.
RUSSET-CROWNED CRAKE (Rufirallus viridis)
We had a nice looks at this shy species on our last day in the Pantanal.
RUFOUS-SIDED CRAKE (Laterallus melanophaius)
Betinho had one coming to a feeding station near the reception at Intervales.
RED-AND-WHITE CRAKE (Laterallus leucopyrrhus)
Also coming to a feeding station at Intervales.
LIMPKIN (Aramus guarauna)
Abundant in the Pantanal.
BLACK-NECKED STILT (WHITE-BACKED) (Himantopus mexicanus melanurus)
Seen towards the end of our tour around Piuval lodge.
PIED PLOVER (Hoploxypterus cayanus)
Multiple sightings in the Pantanal.
SOUTHERN LAPWING (Vanellus chilensis)
Seen every day on our tour.
WATTLED JACANA (Jacana jacana)
Very common in the Pantanal
SOLITARY SANDPIPER (Tringa solitaria)
Seen daily in the Pantanal
LARGE-BILLED TERN (Phaetusa simplex)
SUNBITTERN (Eurypyga helias)
Nice views in the Pantanal
JABIRU (Jabiru mycteria)
If you ask any Brazilian which bird represents the Pantanal, they will say Jabiru. We saw many of them in the Pantanal.
WOOD STORK (Mycteria americana)
Seen both on the way to Intervales and in the Pantanal.
ANHINGA (Anhinga anhinga)
common along the rivers in the Pantanal.
NEOTROPIC CORMORANT (Nannopterum brasilianum)
Common around Iguazu and the Pantanal.
RUFESCENT TIGER-HERON (Tigrisoma lineatum)
We saw both the adult and the juvenile plumaged birds in the Pantanal.
BOAT-BILLED HERON (Cochlearius cochlearius)
A nocturnal species that we saw well in the Pantanal.
ZIGZAG HERON (Zebrilus undulatus)
This is arguably the hardest species of heron to see in South America and we saw it twice on our tour.
CAPPED HERON (Pilherodius pileatus)
This species is mainly Amazonian but occurs along the some of the rivers in the Pantanal and we saw one during a boat trip in the Pantanal.
WHISTLING HERON (Syrigma sibilatrix)
A handsome heron that prefers grassland over wetlands. We saw them well in the Pantanal.
LITTLE BLUE HERON (Egretta caerulea)
We saw both the adults and the juveniles that are mostly white, in the Pantanal.
SNOWY EGRET (Egretta thula)
STRIATED HERON (Butorides striata)
A close relative of the Green Heron that we saw well in the Pantanal.
WESTERN CATTLE EGRET (Bulbulcus ibis)
The species was recently split.
GREAT EGRET (Ardea alba)
COCOI HERON (Ardea cocoi)
GREEN IBIS (Mesembrinibis cayennensis)
This species is predominantly a forest species and we saw it in the Pantanal and at Intervales.
BARE-FACED IBIS (Phimosus infuscatus)
This species is the most abundant in the Pantanal during the wet season but practically disappears in the dry season.
PLUMBEOUS IBIS (Theristicus caerulescens)
This species is restricted in Brazil to the western portion of the country and we saw it well in the Pantanal.
BUFF-NECKED IBIS (Theristicus caudatus)
Common in the Pantanal and it is expanding its range to open areas near Intervales.
ROSEATE SPOONBILL (Platalea ajaja)
Seen on multiple days in the Pantanal.
BLACK VULTURE (Coragyps atratus)
Seen every day on our tour.
TURKEY VULTURE (Cathartes aura)
LESSER YELLOW-HEADED VULTURE (Cathartes burrovianus)
We found this species in the Pantanal where it was common.
BLACK HAWK-EAGLE (Spizaetus tyrannus)
Seen a few times at Intervales.
BLACK-COLLARED HAWK (Busarellus nigricollis)
Toni spotted this handsome raptor for us in the Pantanal.
SNAIL KITE (Rostrhamus sociabilis)
Multiple sightings both at Iguazu and in the Pantanal.
RUFOUS-THIGHED KITE (Harpagus diodon)
We saw a perched juvenile through the scope on the Carmo Road at Intervales.
SHARP-SHINNED HAWK (RUFOUS-THIGHED) (Accipiter striatus erythronemius)
One soaring bird seen at Intervales.
BICOLORED HAWK (Accipiter bicolor)
This is a scarce bird but we saw one in the Pantanal.
CRANE HAWK (BANDED) (Geranospiza caerulescens flexipes)
Multiple sightings in the Pantanal but watching one of them trying to get something out of a cavity in a tree on the entrance road to Piuval was particularly interesting.
SAVANNA HAWK (Buteogallus meridionalis)
WHITE-NECKED HAWK (Buteogallus lacernulatus)
Betinho spotted one for us on the lajeado road at Intervales.
GREAT BLACK HAWK (Buteogallus urubitinga)
ROADSIDE HAWK (Rupornis magnirostris)
Seen on every stop of our tour.
WHITE-TAILED HAWK (Geranoaetus albicaudatus)
MANTLED HAWK (Pseudastur polionotus) [E]
Great looks at a soaring bird at Intervales.
TROPICAL SCREECH-OWL (Megascops choliba)
Betinho had a pair of birds staked out for us at the reception at intervales. What a welcoming committee.
LONG-TUFTED SCREECH-OWL (Megascops sanctaecatarinae)
Also seen at Intervales. This species has moved into the area in recent years and has become increasingly common.
BLACK-CAPPED SCREECH-OWL (Megascops atricapilla)
We saw this species at intervales where it has become increasingly rare with the presence of the Long-tufted Screech-Owl.
TAWNY-BROWED OWL (Pulsatrix koeniswaldiana) [E]
Beautiful looks at this endemic on our second day at Intervales.
GREAT HORNED OWL (Bubo virginianus)
We had a great look at a Great Horned Owl on our drive into the Pantanal. The birds in the Pantanal belong to a different subspecies from the North American birds and are visibly different.
LEAST PYGMY-OWL (Glaucidium minutissimum)
Scope views of this minute owl at Intervales.
FERRUGINOUS PYGMY-OWL (Glaucidium brasilianum)
Seen both at Iguazu and in the Pantanal.
BURROWING OWL (Athene cunicularia)
Seen on the road from Intervales to Sao Paulo.
MOTTLED OWL (Strix virgata)
Another Owl that we saw well at Intervales.
RUSTY-BARRED OWL (Strix hylophila)
When we arrived at the spot where we were going to look for this species there was another birder there looking at the owl. We got out of the van, looked at the owl and headed to dinner. What a way to see an owl.
GREEN-BACKED TROGON (Trogon viridis)
Seen nicely at Intervales.
BLUE-CROWNED TROGON (Trogon curucui)
This is the species of Trogon that we saw in the Pantanal.
SURUCUA TROGON (Trogon surrucura) [E]
Scope views of this endemic at Intervales.
ATLANTIC BLACK-THROATED TROGON (Trogon chrysochloros)
A recent split. We saw them well at Intervales.
AMAZONIAN MOTMOT (Momotus momota) [*]
RUFOUS-CAPPED MOTMOT (Baryphthengus ruficapillus) [E]
Great looks at this coloful species in the forest near our hotel in Iguazu.
RINGED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle torquata)
The largest of the kingfishers in South America. We saw them well in the Pantanal.
AMAZON KINGFISHER (Chloroceryle amazona)
AMERICAN PYGMY KINGFISHER (Chloroceryle aenea)
Great looks at this minute kingfisher on the Bento Gomes river in the Pantanal.
GREEN KINGFISHER (Chloroceryle americana)
GREEN-AND-RUFOUS KINGFISHER (Chloroceryle inda)
BUFF-BELLIED PUFFBIRD (Notharchus swainsoni) [E]
We had great scope views of this scarce canopy Puffbird at Iguazu.
WHITE-EARED PUFFBIRD (Nystalus chacuru)
Seen along the road to Intervales on the first day.
CRESCENT-CHESTED PUFFBIRD (Malacoptila striata)
This understory Puffbird occurs in very small numbers at Intervales but we found one and had great looks at it.
RUSTY-BREASTED NUNLET (Nonnula rubecula)
Great looks at this minute puffbird at Intervales.
BLACK-FRONTED NUNBIRD (Monasa nigrifrons)
A common species in the forested areas of the Pantanal.
RUFOUS-TAILED JACAMAR (Galbula ruficauda)
Multiple sightings in the Pantanal.
SAFFRON TOUCANET (Pteroglossus bailloni)
Great looks at these unique birds on the Carmo Road at Intervales.
CHESTNUT-EARED ARACARI (Pteroglossus castanotis)
A common species around Iguazu.
SPOT-BILLED TOUCANET (Selenidera maculirostris) [E]
We had good looks at this colorful species at Intervales.
TOCO TOUCAN (Ramphastos toco)
Lovely views of these colorful birds at Iguazu. We even had a tree full of them right above the falls.
RED-BREASTED TOUCAN (Ramphastos dicolorus) [E*]
OCHRE-COLLARED PICULET (Picumnus temminckii) [E]
An excellent look at this minute woodpecker right outside the restaurant at Intervales.
WHITE-WEDGED PICULET (Picumnus albosquamatus)
This is the species we saw in the Pantanal.
YELLOW-FRONTED WOODPECKER (Melanerpes flavifrons) [E]
Great looks at this species right outside our hotel on the Brazilian side of the falls.
WHITE-SPOTTED WOODPECKER (Dryobates spilogaster) [E]
Multiple sightings at Intervales.
LITTLE WOODPECKER (Dryobates passerinus)
Seen in the Pantanal.
ROBUST WOODPECKER (Campephilus robustus) [E]
Always a hard bird to see but we came across them a couple of times at Intervales.
CRIMSON-CRESTED WOODPECKER (Campephilus melanoleucos)
Great looks in the Pantanal.
LINEATED WOODPECKER (Dryocopus lineatus)
Seen at Rio Claro Lodge in the Pantanal.
CREAM-COLORED WOODPECKER (Celeus flavus)
Great looks at this handsome woodpecker in the Pantanal.
PALE-CRESTED WOODPECKER (Celeus lugubris)
Yet another Celeus that we saw well in the Pantanal.
BLOND-CRESTED WOODPECKER (Celeus flavescens) [E]
This species replaces the Pale-crested Woodpecker in the Atlantic Forest. We saw it well at Intervales.
GOLDEN-GREEN WOODPECKER (Piculus chrysochloros)
WHITE-BROWED WOODPECKER (Piculus aurulentus)
GREEN-BARRED WOODPECKER (GREEN-BARRED) (Colaptes melanochloros melanochloros)
CAMPO FLICKER (Colaptes campestris)
We saw both the Campo and Field subspecies on our tour.
RED-LEGGED SERIEMA (Cariama cristata)
Seen right on the lawn outside our rooms at Piuval lodge in the Pantanal.
LAUGHING FALCON (Herpetotheres cachinnans)
We saw this snake specialist at Iguazu.
COLLARED FOREST-FALCON (Micrastur semitorquatus) [*]
CRESTED CARACARA (SOUTHERN) (Caracara plancus plancus)
After being treated as a separate species, this species was lumped once again with the North American birds.
YELLOW-HEADED CARACARA (Daptrius chimachima)
AMERICAN KESTREL (Falco sparverius)
APLOMADO FALCON (Falco femoralis)
BAT FALCON (Falco rufigularis)
A dramatic look at this species with the pinkening skies behind it in the Pantanal.
MONK PARAKEET (Myiopsitta monachus)
PLAIN PARAKEET (Brotogeris tirica) [E]
This endemic is an abundant species at Intervales.
YELLOW-CHEVRONED PARAKEET (Brotogeris chiriri)
This species replaces the Plain Parakeet in the Pantanal.
PILEATED PARROT (Pionopsitta pileata) [E]
Several fly overs but we never managed to see a perched bird.
BLUE-BELLIED PARROT (Triclaria malachitacea)
A brief sighting of these shy forest parrots.
SCALY-HEADED PARROT (Pionus maximiliani)
TURQUOISE-FRONTED PARROT (Amazona aestiva)
Common in the Pantanal.
MAROON-BELLIED PARAKEET (Pyrrhura frontalis)
Scope views at Intervales.
HYACINTH MACAW (Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus)
Always one of the highlights of any visit to the Pantanal.
PEACH-FRONTED PARAKEET (Eupsittula aurea)
Present in good numbers in the Pantanal.
NANDAY PARAKEET (Aratinga nenday)
A regular visitor of the feeders at Rio Claro Lodge in the Pantanal.
YELLOW-COLLARED MACAW (Primolius auricollis)
Much smaller than the Hyacinth Macaw but every bit as spectacular.
BLUE-CROWNED PARAKEET (Thectocercus acuticaudatus)
A couple of sightings in the Pantanal.
WHITE-EYED PARAKEET (Psittacara leucophthalmus)
Seen both at Iguazu and the Pantanal.
SPOT-BACKED ANTSHRIKE (Hypoedaleus guttatus) [E]
A canopy antshrike that we saw well at Intervales.
GIANT ANTSHRIKE (Batara cinerea)
Wonderful looks at a female at Intervales.
TUFTED ANTSHRIKE (Mackenziaena severa) [E]
Another large Antshrike that we saw well at Intervales.
GREAT ANTSHRIKE (Taraba major)
We saw this species in the Pantanal.
WHITE-BEARDED ANTSHRIKE (Biatas nigropectus) [E]
Unfortunately only a couple of people got on it before it disapeared.
BARRED ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus doliatus)
The most widespread of the Antshrikes occurring from Argentina to Mexico but we only saw one in the Pantanal.
PLANALTO SLATY-ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus pelzelni)
One of several species split from a species formerly known as Slaty Antshrike. We saw it in the Pantanal.
VARIABLE ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus caerulescens)
Seen at Intervales.
STAR-THROATED ANTWREN (Rhopias gularis) [E]
This handsome and charismatic Antwren provided a much welcome relief for our necks since it usually stays close to the ground. We saw them well at Intervales.
SPOT-BREASTED ANTVIREO (Dysithamnus stictothorax) [E]
Seen on the Carmo Road at Intervales.
PLAIN ANTVIREO (Dysithamnus mentalis)
Also seen at Intervales allowing us to compare it with the scarcer Spot-breasted Antvireo.
LARGE-BILLED ANTWREN (Herpsilochmus longirostris)
This is the herpsilochmus we saw in the Pantanal.
RUFOUS-MARGINED ANTWREN (Herpsilochmus rufimarginatus)
Formerly known as Rufous-winged Antwren but it was recently split from the Amazonian birds.
BLACK-BELLIED ANTWREN (Formicivora melanogaster)
This handsome species barely occurs in the Pantanal and the birds we saw belong to a relic population from an ancient corridor that used to link the Caatinga with the Bolivian Chaco. We had great looks at one in some dry forest in the Pantanal
RUSTY-BACKED ANTWREN (Formicivora rufa)
A close relative of the Black-bellied Antwren but one that is much more common. We saw it well in the Pantanal
FERRUGINOUS ANTBIRD (Drymophila ferruginea) [E]
One of several Drymophila Antbirds we saw at Intervales. This one was seen particularly well.
BERTONI'S ANTBIRD (Drymophila rubricollis) [E]
OCHRE-RUMPED ANTBIRD (Drymophila ochropyga) [E]
DUSKY-TAILED ANTBIRD (Drymophila malura)
Great looks at this species on the Lajeado Road at Intervales.
STREAK-CAPPED ANTWREN (Terenura maculata) [E]
A minute Antwren that moves around with canopy flocks so it is quite hard to see but we had reasonlable looks at one.
MATO GROSSO ANTBIRD (Cercomacra melanaria)
An Antbird from the Pantanal that is often found near water.
WHITE-SHOULDERED FIRE-EYE (Pyriglena leucoptera) [E]
Seen both at Intervales and Iguazu.
SQUAMATE ANTBIRD (Myrmoderus squamosus)
This handsome Antbird forages on the forest floor and we heard a few of them but had to work hard to see one at Intervales.
BLACK-CHEEKED GNATEATER (Conopophaga melanops)
Gnateaters are always fun to see but this one is particularly handsome. We had great looks at one at Intervales.
RUFOUS GNATEATER (Conopophaga lineata)
VARIEGATED ANTPITTA (Grallaria varia) [*]
SLATY BRISTLEFRONT (Merulaxis ater) [E]
The birds from Intervales have a different song and calls from the birds in other areas and will likely be described as a separate taxon some day.
WHITE-BREASTED TAPACULO (Eleoscytalopus indigoticus)
We had great looks at this shy and difficult to see species at Intervales. As a matter of fact it sat long enough for us to have scope views of it.
MOUSE-COLORED TAPACULO (Scytalopus speluncae) [E]
Another Tapaculo that we saw in the scope.
RUFOUS-CAPPED ANTTHRUSH (Formicarius colma)
It may seem ridiculous to list three very hard to see birds in a row and say that we saw them in the scope but it is true. We also had this great bird in the scope at Intervales.
SHORT-TAILED ANTTHRUSH (Chamaeza campanisona) [*]
RUFOUS-BREASTED LEAFTOSSER (Sclerurus scansor) [E]
Usually a tough bird to see but we found one on our first day at Intervales.
OLIVACEOUS WOODCREEPER (OLIVACEOUS) (Sittasomus griseicapillus sylviellus) [E]
This is the subspecies that occurs in the Atlantic Forest.
PLAIN-WINGED WOODCREEPER (Dendrocincla turdina) [E]
Its not just the wing that is plain. The whole bird is plain but it is an endemic and we saw it well at Intervales.
PLANALTO WOODCREEPER (Dendrocolaptes platyrostris)
WHITE-THROATED WOODCREEPER (Xiphocolaptes albicollis) [E]
We saw two species in this genus. Both of them massive, and this was the one we saw at Intervales
GREAT RUFOUS WOODCREEPER (Xiphocolaptes major)
This is the Xiphocolaptes we saw in the Pantanal
LESSER WOODCREEPER (Xiphorhynchus fuscus fuscus) [E]
Common around Intervales
STRAIGHT-BILLED WOODCREEPER (Dendroplex picus)
We saw this species at Rio Claro Lodge in the Pantanal.
RED-BILLED SCYTHEBILL (Campylorhamphus trochilirostris)
This unique species uses its bill to probe cracks and cavities in search for small spiders and insects. We had great looks at one in the Pantanal.
NARROW-BILLED WOODCREEPER (Lepidocolaptes angustirostris)
The most abundant woodcreeper in the Pantanal.
SCALLOPED WOODCREEPER (Lepidocolaptes falcinellus) [E*]
STREAKED XENOPS (Xenops rutilans)
Seen nicely at Intervales. The name Xenops means "strange billed" and refers to its upturned mandible.
PALE-LEGGED HORNERO (Furnarius leucopus)
Similar to the more common Rufous Hornero but this species is almost always found right along the water. We saw one during a boat trip at Rio Claro Lodge.
RUFOUS HORNERO (Furnarius rufus)
Common and widespread.
SHARP-TAILED STREAMCREEPER (Lochmias nematura nematura) [*]
WHITE-COLLARED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Anabazenops fuscus) [E]
A handsome Foliage-gleaner that favors areas with bamboo. We saw them a couple of times at Intervales.
PALE-BROWED TREEHUNTER (Cichlocolaptes leucophrus) [E]
A canopy bird that forages almost exclusively in Bromeliads. We had one at Intervales.
BLACK-CAPPED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Philydor atricapillus) [E*]
WHITE-BROWED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Anabacerthia amaurotis) [E]
OCHRE-BREASTED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Anabacerthia lichtensteini) [E]
Excellent looks at this species at eye level at Intervales.
BUFF-BROWED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Syndactyla rufosuperciliata)
BUFF-FRONTED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Dendroma rufa)
WHITE-EYED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Automolus leucophthalmus) [E]
Seen on our first day at Intervales and heard on many other days.
ARAUCARIA TIT-SPINETAIL (Leptasthenura setaria)
This species specializes on Araucaria trees and we saw one right outside our lodge at Intervales.
RUFOUS-FRONTED THORNBIRD (Phacellodomus rufifrons)
Common in the Pantanal.
GREATER THORNBIRD (Phacellodomus ruber)
Common in the Pantanal.
ORANGE-BREASTED THORNBIRD (Phacellodomus ferrugineigula)
We had to look hard for this one but we eventually got wonderful looks at one near a lake at Intervales.
RUSTY-BACKED SPINETAIL (Cranioleuca vulpina)
A common species along the rivers in the Pantanal.
PALLID SPINETAIL (Cranioleuca pallida) [E]
Seen right outside the restaurant where we had our meals at Intervales.
RUFOUS CACHOLOTE (Pseudoseisura unirufa)
Great views in the Pantanal.
YELLOW-CHINNED SPINETAIL (Certhiaxis cinnamomeus)
Scope views allowing us to even see the yellow chin that gives the bird its name.
CHOTOY SPINETAIL (Schoeniophylax phryganophilus)
This spinetail is so unique that it is the only member of its genus. We saw them well in the Pantanal.
GRAY-BELLIED SPINETAIL (Synallaxis cinerascens) [E]
Alway a very hard spinetail to see but we had good looks at Intervales.
WHITE-LORED SPINETAIL (Synallaxis albilora)
Seen multiple times in the Pantanal.
RUFOUS-CAPPED SPINETAIL (Synallaxis ruficapilla)
Probably the most common spinetail at Intervales and we saw them several times during our stay there.
SPIX'S SPINETAIL (Synallaxis spixi) [*]
HELMETED MANAKIN (Antilophia galeata)
Scope views of a male in the Pantanal. What a bird!
SWALLOW-TAILED MANAKIN (Chiroxiphia caudata) [E]
Formerly known as Blue Manakin. We had great looks at these gorgeous Manakins at Intervales
PIN-TAILED MANAKIN (Ilicura militaris) [E]
We saw females a couple of times but never connected with a male.
BAND-TAILED MANAKIN (Pipra fasciicauda)
We found this one at Iguazu.
HOODED BERRYEATER (Carpornis cucullata)
Great looks at this Cotinga that is more often heard than seen.
CINNAMON-VENTED PIHA (Lipaugus lanioides)
We found this speces on the Carmo Road in the Pantanal.
BARE-THROATED BELLBIRD (Procnias nudicollis)
This species is usually quiet at this time of the year making it much harder to find but we managed to get great looks at one during our visit to Intervales.
BLACK-TAILED TITYRA (Tityra cayana)
Toni spotted this one for us.
GREENISH SCHIFFORNIS (Schiffornis virescens) [E]
Great looks at this endemic at Intervales.
CHESTNUT-CROWNED BECARD (Pachyramphus castaneus)
WHITE-WINGED BECARD (Pachyramphus polychopterus)
Widespread but we only saw one at Intervales.
CRESTED BECARD (Pachyramphus validus)
Seen in at Intervales and in the Pantanal.
SHARPBILL (Oxyruncus cristatus) [*]
WING-BARRED PIPRITES (Piprites chloris)
WHITE-THROATED SPADEBILL (Platyrinchus mystaceus)
We had great looks at this lovely species feeding young at Intervales.
GRAY-HOODED FLYCATCHER (Mionectes rufiventris) [E]
Multiple sightings of this discreet species at Intervales.
SEPIA-CAPPED FLYCATCHER (Leptopogon amaurocephalus)
SOUTHERN BRISTLE-TYRANT (Pogonotriccus eximius) [E]
This species is very range restricted and despite some bad weather on the day we went looking for it we had great looks at one on the Poco Preto trail in Iguazu.
SAO PAULO BRISTLE-TYRANT (Pogonotriccus paulista) [E]
A close relative of the Southern Bristle-Tyrant that we saw both at Intervales and Iguazu.
OUSTALET'S TYRANNULET (Phylloscartes oustaleti)
This species has an interesting behavioral trait that helps id it immediately. It has the habit of wiggling its tail sideways. We saw them at Intervales.
MOTTLE-CHEEKED TYRANNULET (Phylloscartes ventralis)
BAY-RINGED TYRANNULET (Phylloscartes sylviolus) [E]
SOUTHERN ANTPIPIT (Corythopis delalandi)
Despite its name this species is not a pipit nor an antbird, it is instead a very handsome flycatcher that we saw well at Iguazu.
EARED PYGMY-TYRANT (Myiornis auricularis) [E]
This bird belong to a genus that holds the smallest passerines in the world. We found this tiny gem at Intervales.
EYE-RINGED TODY-TYRANT (Hemitriccus orbitatus) [*]
HANGNEST TODY-TYRANT (Hemitriccus nidipendulus) [E]
Seen at Intervales.
PEARLY-VENTED TODY-TYRANT (Hemitriccus margaritaceiventer)
We found this species multiple times in the Pantanal.
OCHRE-FACED TODY-FLYCATCHER (Poecilotriccus plumbeiceps)
RUSTY-FRONTED TODY-FLYCATCHER (Poecilotriccus latirostris)
YELLOW-OLIVE FLATBILL (SOORETAMA) (Tolmomyias sulphurescens sulphurescens) [*]
CLIFF FLYCATCHER (SWALLOW) (Hirundinea ferruginea bellicosa)
We found this species right by the restaurant at Intervales.
SOUTHERN BEARDLESS-TYRANNULET (Camptostoma obsoletum)
Another tyrannulet that is easily identifiable by its behavior. This one rocks its body from side to side.
YELLOW TYRANNULET (Capsiempis flaveola)
A bamboo specialist that we saw well at Iguazu.
FOREST ELAENIA (Myiopagis gaimardii)
GRAY-HEADED ELAENIA (Myiopagis caniceps)
Formerly knonw as Gray Elaenia.
GREENISH ELAENIA (Myiopagis viridicata)
SMALL-HEADED ELAENIA (Elaenia sordida)
This is a recent split from Highland Elaenia.
SOOTY TYRANNULET (Serpophaga nigricans)
Seen at the lake at Intervales.
WHITE-CRESTED TYRANNULET (Serpophaga subcristata)
Seen in the marshy habitat near the reception at Intervales.
GREENISH TYRANNULET (Phyllomyias virescens) [E]
GRAY-CAPPED TYRANNULET (Phyllomyias griseocapilla) [E]
BRAN-COLORED FLYCATCHER (Myiophobus fasciatus) [*]
EULER'S FLYCATCHER (EULER'S) (Lathrotriccus euleri euleri)
FUSCOUS FLYCATCHER (Cnemotriccus fuscatus)
A brief look in the Pantanal.
SOUTHERN SCRUB-FLYCATCHER (Sublegatus modestus)
WHITE-RUMPED MONJITA (Xolmis velatus)
GRAY MONJITA (Nengetus cinereus)
WHITE-HEADED MARSH TYRANT (Arundinicola leucocephala)
MASKED WATER-TYRANT (Fluvicola nengeta)
We had wonderful looks at a displaying pair of birds at Intervales.
LONG-TAILED TYRANT (Colonia colonus)
Seen nicely at Intervales.
LARGE-HEADED FLATBILL (Ramphotrigon megacephalum)
A bamboo specialist that we saw well at Intervales.
GRAY-HOODED ATTILA (Attila rufus) [E]
This is one of those birds that looks much better than any book can depict. We had nice looks at it during our stay at Intervales.
SIBILANT SIRYSTES (Sirystes sibilator sibilator)
Formerly known simply as Sirystes but it has been split into several species.
RUFOUS CASIORNIS (Casiornis rufus)
Seen a couple of tines in the Pantanal where it showed up in response to Pygmy Owl tapes.
SWAINSON'S FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus swainsoni)
Seen a couple of times at Intervales.
SHORT-CRESTED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus ferox)
The most common Myiarchus flycatcher on this tour.
CATTLE TYRANT (Machetornis rixosa)
A common species both at Iguazu and the Pantanal. We had fun watching these birds following tourists along the front lawn of our hotel in Iguazu.
LESSER KISKADEE (Philohydor lictor)
Seen along the rivers in the Pantanal.
GREAT KISKADEE (Pitangus sulphuratus)
Seen every day on our tour.
BOAT-BILLED FLYCATCHER (Megarynchus pitangua)
RUSTY-MARGINED FLYCATCHER (Myiozetetes cayanensis)
SOCIAL FLYCATCHER (Myiozetetes similis)
STREAKED FLYCATCHER (Myiodynastes maculatus)
PIRATIC FLYCATCHER (Legatus leucophaius)
This species steals the nest of other birds and that is where they get their name.
TROPICAL KINGBIRD (Tyrannus melancholicus)
Seen on every day but one on our tour.
RUFOUS-BROWED PEPPERSHRIKE (Cyclarhis gujanensis)
Multiple sightings at Intervales and later heard at Iguazu and the Pantanal.
RUFOUS-CROWNED GREENLET (Hylophilus poicilotis) [E]
Seen both at Intervales and Iguazu.
ASHY-HEADED GREENLET (Hylophilus pectoralis)
We found this species in the Pantanal.
CHIVI VIREO (MIGRATORY) (Vireo chivi chivi)
Formerly known as Red-eyed Vireo but it was split a few years back.
PURPLISH JAY (Cyanocorax cyanomelas)
Common in the Pantanal.
PLUSH-CRESTED JAY (Cyanocorax chrysops)
Watching these birds is one of the great joys of visiting Iguazu as these colorful birds are extremely used to the human presence at the National Park and interact quite a bit with humans.
BLACK-CAPPED DONACOBIUS (Donacobius atricapilla)
Great looks during a boat trip in the Pantanal.
WHITE-WINGED SWALLOW (Tachycineta albiventer)
Common along the bodies of water in the Pantanal.
GRAY-BREASTED MARTIN (Progne chalybea)
BROWN-CHESTED MARTIN (Progne tapera)
Very abundant in the Pantanal during the wet season.
SOUTHERN ROUGH-WINGED SWALLOW (Stelgidopteryx ruficollis)
Seen over the falls at Iguazu.
BLUE-AND-WHITE SWALLOW (Pygochelidon cyanoleuca)
This is a very common species at Intervales and we saw them every day while staying there.
BARN SWALLOW (Hirundo rustica)
LONG-BILLED GNATWREN (Ramphocaenus melanurus)
MASKED GNATCATCHER (Polioptila dumicola)
Common in the Pantanal.
HOUSE WREN (Troglodytes aedon)
THRUSH-LIKE WREN (Campylorhynchus turdinus)
There are two very distinctive subspecies of this bird. The birds we saw belong to the Hypostictus subspecies.
BUFF-BREASTED WREN (Cantorchilus leucotis)
CHALK-BROWED MOCKINGBIRD (Mimus saturninus)
PALE-BREASTED THRUSH (Turdus leucomelas)
YELLOW-LEGGED THRUSH (Turdus flavipes)
We only saw this species at Intervales. This is a forest species that is much less obvious than most Thrushes.
WHITE-NECKED THRUSH (Turdus albicollis)
RUFOUS-BELLIED THRUSH (Turdus rufiventris)
This is the national Bird of Brazil.
CREAMY-BELLIED THRUSH (Turdus amaurochalinus)
HOUSE SPARROW (Passer domesticus)
YELLOWISH PIPIT (Anthus chii)
PURPLE-THROATED EUPHONIA (Euphonia chlorotica)
GREEN-THROATED EUPHONIA (Euphonia chalybea)
Good looks at an immature male.
VIOLACEOUS EUPHONIA (Euphonia violacea)
CHESTNUT-BELLIED EUPHONIA (Euphonia pectoralis) [E]
Seen at intervales and visiting the feeders at Iguazu.
HOODED SISKIN (Spinus magellanicus)
GRASSLAND SPARROW (Ammodramus humeralis)
Scope views in the Pantanal.
HALF-COLLARED SPARROW (Arremon semitorquatus)
As we made our way back to Sao Paulo from Intervales we stopped at a spot where I had seen these birds before and they showed up immediately. Love it when that happens.
SAFFRON-BILLED SPARROW (Arremon flavirostris)
A close relative of the Half-collared Sparrow that we saw at Iguazu.
RUFOUS-COLLARED SPARROW (Zonotrichia capensis)
Common at Intervales and Iguazu but absent from the Pantanal.
CRESTED OROPENDOLA (Psarocolius decumanus)
Multiple sightings in the Pantanal.
SOLITARY BLACK CACIQUE (Cacicus solitarius)
GOLDEN-WINGED CACIQUE (Cacicus chrysopterus)
Seen at Intervales and Iguazu.
YELLOW-RUMPED CACIQUE (Cacicus cela)
RED-RUMPED CACIQUE (Cacicus haemorrhous)
Nesting birds right around the swimming pool of our hotel in Iguazu.
VARIABLE ORIOLE (CHESTNUT-SHOULDERED) (Icterus pyrrhopterus pyrrhopterus)
This is the subspecies we saw at Iguazu.
VARIABLE ORIOLE (CHESTNUT-SHOULDERED) (Icterus pyrrhopterus periporphyrus)
This is the subspecies we saw in the Pantanal.
ORANGE-BACKED TROUPIAL (Icterus croconotus)
This colorful bird is a close relative of the North American Orioles. We saw them in the Pantanal.
SHINY COWBIRD (Molothrus bonariensis)
GIANT COWBIRD (Molothrus oryzivorus)
SCARLET-HEADED BLACKBIRD (Amblyramphus holosericeus)
This lovely Blackbird favors papyrus marshes in the Pantanal and we had great looks at them.
CHOPI BLACKBIRD (Gnorimopsar chopi)
GRAYISH BAYWING (Agelaioides badius)
It was fascinating to see these birds mobbing a Crane Hawk at Piuval in the Pantanal.
UNICOLORED BLACKBIRD (Agelasticus cyanopus)
A common species in the marshy habitats of the Pantanal.
CHESTNUT-CAPPED BLACKBIRD (Chrysomus ruficapillus)
Seen well through the scope at Intervales.
SOUTHERN YELLOWTHROAT (Geothlypis velata)
This species has recently been split from Masked Yellowthroat.
TROPICAL PARULA (Setophaga pitiayumi)
GOLDEN-CROWNED WARBLER (Basileuterus culicivorus)
Common at Intervales and Iguazu.
FLAVESCENT WARBLER (Myiothlypis flaveola)
Seen in the Pantanal on the last day of the tour.
WHITE-BROWED WARBLER (Myiothlypis leucoblephara) [E]
The melodious song of this bird is often heard at Intervales where we saw one on the first day.
RIVERBANK WARBLER (Myiothlypis rivularis)
RED-CROWNED ANT-TANAGER (Habia rubica)
We had great looks at this species while watching the Spot-winged Wood-quail at Intervales.
RED-CRESTED CARDINAL (Paroaria coronata)
YELLOW-BILLED CARDINAL (Paroaria capitata)
A regular visitor of the feeders in the Pantanal.
MAGPIE TANAGER (Cissopis leverianus)
GRAY-THROATED WARBLING FINCH (Microspingus cabanisi)
Excellent looks at this species right outside the restaurant where we had our meals at Intervales.
BLACK-GOGGLED TANAGER (Trichothraupis melanops)
RUBY-CROWNED TANAGER (Tachyphonus coronatus) [E]
The Ruby crown is rarely seen but the species is common at Intervales.
BRAZILIAN TANAGER (Ramphocelus bresilius) [E]
Seen from the restaurant at Intervales
SILVER-BEAKED TANAGER (Ramphocelus carbo)
SAYACA TANAGER (Thraupis sayaca)
Seen every day on our tour.
AZURE-SHOULDERED TANAGER (Thraupis cyanoptera)
Very similar to the Sayaca Tanager but we were able to see them side by side at intervales and study the differences between the two species.
GOLDEN-CHEVRONED TANAGER (Thraupis ornata) [E]
PALM TANAGER (Thraupis palmarum)
CHESTNUT-BACKED TANAGER (Stilpnia preciosa)
GREEN-HEADED TANAGER (Tangara seledon) [E]
This gem of a bird is a common sight around Iguazu and showed up regularly at our restaurant at breakfast time in Iguazu.
BRASSY-BREASTED TANAGER (Tangara desmaresti)
We spotted these moving with a canopy flock on the Carmo road at Intervales.
SWALLOW TANAGER (Tersina viridis)
BLUE DACNIS (Dacnis cayana)
GUIRA TANAGER (Hemithraupis guira)
RUFOUS-HEADED TANAGER (Hemithraupis ruficapilla) [E]
CHESTNUT-VENTED CONEBILL (Conirostrum speciosum)
UNIFORM FINCH (Haplospiza unicolor) [E]
A bamboo seed specialist that we saw around some seeding bamboo at Intervales.
SAFFRON FINCH (Sicalis flaveola)
Common at the feeders in the Pantanal.
BLUE-BLACK GRASSQUIT (Volatinia jacarina)
LINED SEEDEATER (Sporophila lineola)
WHITE-BELLIED SEEDEATER (Sporophila leucoptera)
CHESTNUT-BELLIED SEED-FINCH (Sporophila angolensis)
DOUBLE-COLLARED SEEDEATER (Sporophila caerulescens)
TEMMINCK'S SEEDEATER (Sporophila falcirostris)
This was a bit of a surprise as this species is found almost exclusively at seeding bamboo but we came across a patch of seeding bamboo at Intervales and saw one bird.
BUFFY-FRONTED SEEDEATER (Sporophila frontalis) [*]
RUSTY-COLLARED SEEDEATER (Sporophila collaris)
Seen nicely in some marshy habitat in the Pantanal.
RED-CRESTED FINCH (Coryphospingus cucullatus)
BANANAQUIT (Coereba flaveola)
BLACK-THROATED SALTATOR (Saltatricula atricollis)
A species typical of the Cerrado that we saw just before getting on the Transpantaneira on our way to the Pantanal.
BLUISH-GRAY SALTATOR (Saltator coerulescens)
Formerly known as Grayish Saltator.
GREEN-WINGED SALTATOR (Saltator similis)
BLACK-THROATED GROSBEAK (Saltator fuliginosus) [E]
BLACK-TAILED MARMOSET (Callithrix (Mico) melanura)
BLACK HOWLER MONKEY (Alouatta caraya)
BROWN CAPUCHIN (Cebus apella)
BRAZILIAN RABBIT (Sylvilagus brasiliensis)
GUIANAN SQUIRREL (Sciurus aestuans)
CAPYBARA (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris)
AZARA'S AGOUTI (Dasyprocta azarae)
CRAB-EATING FOX (Cerdocyon thous)
SOUTH AMERICAN COATI (Nasua nasua)
TAYRA (Eira barbara)
JAGUAR (Panthera onca)
Definitely a highlight of our tour. We found a Jaguar sleeping at Piuval lodge and watched it for a very long time.
MARSH DEER (Blastocerus dichotomus)
RED BROCKET DEER (Mazama americana)
GIANT AMEIVA (Ameiva ameiva)
GOLDEN TEGU (Tupinambis teguixin)
PARAGUAYAN CAIMAN (Caiman yacare)
Totals for the tour: 401 bird taxa and 13 mammal taxa