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Blue-and-yellow, Scarlet, and Red-and-green, the three species of large macaws we can expect to see in the Peruvian Amazon together at one spot! (Photo by guide Pepe Rojas)
Our Tambopata tour this year was characterized by very unusual high temperatures, dry weather, and a lack of precipitation, which slowed animal activity down big time, not to mention that it made us feel very hot and sticky for the most part of the trip. Beginning our trip, during our boat ride to Posada Amazonas Lodge, we had great views of a Black Hawk-Eagle that flew in front of us and perched, exposed, in one of the trees allowing us great views. What a nice way to start the trip!
The following days at the lodge were of full exploration and immersion in the forest and for that we explored the trail system including the canopy tower and an oxbow lake. Among some of the highlights here, I should start by mentioning our first morning at the canopy tower where we had the chance to be at eye level with some canopy dwellers such as White-necked and Striolated Puffbirds, White-fronted Nunbirds, Great Jacamar, Gilded Barbet, five species of toucans and aracaris, amazing views of several species of parrots, macaws and parakeets flying by, in addition of some wonderful gaudy tanagers such as Paradise, Green-and-Gold and Blue Dacnis, Bare-necked Fruticrows displaying, not to mention that pair of Black-tailed Tityras defending their nest against a raid from a group of Ivory-billed Aracaris! Later in the forest, we weren’t disappointed for what we found there. Perhaps one of the best moments was when we got a Balck-faced Antbird so close that binoculars were not of help at all! We bumped into some mix flocks, which forced us to sharp quickly our eyes to the movement of the birds. Also one of the best moments was when a pair of Pale-winged Trumpeters we heard came charging into view after we played the tape. Not to mention a close harmless encounter with a Bushmaster. At the oxbow lake we had some distant views of a family of Giant River Otters but also enjoyed views of some birds associated with this type of habitat. The first bird that comes to my mind is the Hoatzin. What an odd looking yet beautiful bird to look at it. Here also we had at least 4 Sungrebes in the open, which is not a common occurrence, other birds we had here were Wattled Jacanas, Rufescent and Cocoi Herons, a Great Potoo on our way to the lake at it roosting spot was also great. Several species of macaws, parrots and parakeets flying by including a pair of Blue-headed Macaws!
After leaving Posada Amazonas we headed upriver and east to the mountains where the Tambopata Research Center is located. Very close to the foothills of the Carabaya Cordillera, which can be seen on a clear day including some of the snow-capped mountains! The boat ride was very good and pleasant and we during the length of it we enjoyed great views of species associated to this type of habitat such as Orinoco Geese, plus others such as Large and Yellow-billed Terns, several species of egrets and herons among others. We even had excellent views of a Brazilian Tapir as it was crossing the river. It was the first of several encounters during our tour.
The rest of our days at the Tambopata Research Center we divided our time between a series of hikes at the different habitats cover by the trail system, visits to the clay lick and even boat rides in the afternoon. As a result of that we end up with great looks of different species of birds. For instance, at the clay lick, we scored 12 species of macaws, parrots and allies on our first visit. Later on the tour we had an amazing gaudiesque show “performed” only for Scarlet, Red-and green as well as Blue-and-Yellow Macaws.
In the forest we came across other birds like Chestnut-capped and Semicollared Puffbirds, Rufous-breasted Piculet, Amazonian Parrotlets foraging in a small hidden claylick, several species of antbirds and allies, among many more.
However there are some special highlights to mention here. For instance we had a Razor-billed Curassow that came at the open in the lodge clearing; and how about that and a large group of Pale-winged Trumpeters, which walked around us and left in a very orderly way walking in a perfect line through the trail. Also, on our way back to Refugio Amazonas for the last part of our trip, we were able to catch up with a species that had been elusive for the most part of the trip. It has been teasing us and testing our patience as no other bird (or creature!) did during the trip but at the end it was worthy every drop of sweat we had because we got amazing views of a pair. I am talking about one of the most beautiful species of woodpeckers, the Rufous-headed Woodpecker.
At our last venue, where we spent only an afternoon and few hours in the morning we scored a Long-tailed Potoo at its roosting spot, a great male Pavonine Quetzal and the bird voted as the favorite of the tour, a Harpy Eagle. After a tip from one of my friends and local guides, we went to look for this bird before sunrise on our last morning and we were not disappointed. Wow, what a way to finish a tour!
Also, we did have a great experience with mammals on this trip. Brazilian Tapirs four times, the rare and elusive Short-eared Dog, a large herd of White-lipped Peccaries around the lodge several times, 7 species of monkeys, and other beasts I might be forgetting.
This was a great tour to an area where I am very fond of and I am very happy with you guys for joining me. I had a wonderful time and I am so grateful to your patience and kindness during those hot days on which the birds were slow. All the best, and I hope to see you again in Peru or other part of the world!
Pepe
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)
We had fabulous views of this Ocellated Poorwill, which blended perfectly into the leaf litter. (Photo by guide Pepe Rojas)
WHITE-THROATED TINAMOU (Tinamus guttatus) [*]
CINEREOUS TINAMOU (Crypturellus cinereus) [*]
LITTLE TINAMOU (Crypturellus soui) [*]
UNDULATED TINAMOU (Crypturellus undulatus) – On our way to Tres Chimbadas Lake, we saw at least 3 individuals walking on the trail. Also we heard them very well.
VARIEGATED TINAMOU (Crypturellus variegatus) – We heard this bird around the Refugio Amazonas trail system our last afternoon. [*]
BARTLETT'S TINAMOU (Crypturellus bartletti) [*]
Anhimidae (Screamers)
HORNED SCREAMER (Anhima cornuta) – We heard it from far away at Tres Chimbadas Lake. Later Jan and Joan saw it during one of the afternoon boat rides with Rodolfo....Sorry, George!
Anatidae (Ducks, Geese, and Waterfowl)
ORINOCO GOOSE (Neochen jubata) – This is a good place to see these birds, and it was great to find several individuals during our boat ride to TRC as well as back from it too. Unfortunately, their population is declining and the reasons seem to be associated with habitat loss and hunting pressure.
MUSCOVY DUCK (Cairina moschata) – One flew by while we were at Tres Chimbadas Lake.
Cracidae (Guans, Chachalacas, and Curassows)
SPECKLED CHACHALACA (Ortalis guttata) – These birds were not as raucous as they usually are.
SPIX'S GUAN (Penelope jacquacu)
BLUE-THROATED PIPING-GUAN (Pipile cumanensis) – An everyday bird around TRC.
RAZOR-BILLED CURASSOW (Mitu tuberosum) – Joan and Jan saw this species several times during their boat outings, but the rest of us kept missing it because we were birding in the forest. Finally, the gods took pity on us and sent us one right to the clearing at TRC where we had excellent views and pictures. Back in the days when I lived there, I remember this species nesting in a tree by the lodge every year.
Ciconiidae (Storks)
JABIRU (Jabiru mycteria) – During our trip to Puerto Maldonado, we spotted one soaring above the river.
Phalacrocoracidae (Cormorants and Shags)
NEOTROPIC CORMORANT (Phalacrocorax brasilianus)
Anhingidae (Anhingas)
ANHINGA (Anhinga anhinga)
Ardeidae (Herons, Egrets, and Bitterns)
Seeing a Harpy Eagle well is the highlight of any tour, and we had fabulous views of this majestic raptor as our trip came to a close. (Photo by guide Pepe Rojas)
COCOI HERON (Ardea cocoi)
GREAT EGRET (Ardea alba)
SNOWY EGRET (Egretta thula)
LITTLE BLUE HERON (Egretta caerulea)
CATTLE EGRET (Bubulcus ibis)
STRIATED HERON (Butorides striata)
CAPPED HERON (Pilherodius pileatus)
Cathartidae (New World Vultures)
BLACK VULTURE (Coragyps atratus)
TURKEY VULTURE (Cathartes aura)
GREATER YELLOW-HEADED VULTURE (Cathartes melambrotus)
KING VULTURE (Sarcoramphus papa) – We came across several....I mean SEVERAL individuals during the tour that I had even forgot to tally.
Pandionidae (Osprey)
OSPREY (Pandion haliaetus) – We saw few of these already on their wintering grounds getting fresh fish. [b]
Accipitridae (Hawks, Eagles, and Kites)
GRAY-HEADED KITE (Leptodon cayanensis) – Our last morning from the boat, Rodolfo spotted an individual soaring way up in the sky, but with such a clear morning we had beautiful studies of this lovely raptor.
SWALLOW-TAILED KITE (Elanoides forficatus) – There is a resident population in Peru, but sometimes you can also see flocks of individuals passing through to their wintering grounds in southern South America.
HARPY EAGLE (Harpia harpyja) – It was thanks to a local tip that we were able to pull this together. One of the local guides told me she had seen and heard a Harpy Eagle around an old nest site, so I thought it might be our only chance since we were going back home the next day. We met at 4:30 a.m. and headed to the place and waited until we heard the eagle ands saw it flying by. Once it perched it was only a matter of finding the right angle, which we did thanks to my good friend and local guide Rodolfo. The rest was just enjoying great looks of this wonderful predator...one of the favorite moments of the trip!
BLACK HAWK-EAGLE (Spizaetus tyrannus) – Our first sighting came from the boat as we were approaching Posada Amazonas the first day of the tour. As we were leaving the forest, I spotted an individual by the road. Needless to say, we stopped and got closer looks at this great raptor.
DOUBLE-TOOTHED KITE (Harpagus bidentatus) – We saw an individual very well through the scope and had great studies of the double tomial tooth, the reason for the bird's name. [N]
PLUMBEOUS KITE (Ictinia plumbea) – I cannot recall this many individuals on a trip in my life before! Geez...they were everywhere, like swallows.
GREAT BLACK-HAWK (Buteogallus urubitinga)
ROADSIDE HAWK (Rupornis magnirostris)
GRAY-LINED HAWK (Buteo nitidus) – We came across this lovely raptor twice.
Eurypygidae (Sunbittern)
SUNBITTERN (Eurypyga helias)
Rallidae (Rails, Gallinules, and Coots)
GRAY-BREASTED CRAKE (Laterallus exilis) [*]
GRAY-NECKED WOOD-RAIL (Aramides cajaneus) – Coming back from one of our outings in Posada Amazonas, we saw an individual in a swampy part of the trail picking up some leaves. Perhaps nesting material?
Heliornithidae (Finfoots)
SUNGREBE (Heliornis fulica) – We got very lucky with the looks we had at this species -- on open water in the lake several times!
Psophiidae (Trumpeters)
PALE-WINGED TRUMPETER (Psophia leucoptera) – We scored with this species three times. The first at Posada Amazonas when we got a responsive pair, but nothing like that group of 12 at TRC. They put out a great show coming back, walking around us and finally leaving on the trail following each other in a perfect line. On our final encounter we had an individual that came charging towards us.
Charadriidae (Plovers and Lapwings)
PIED LAPWING (Vanellus cayanus)
COLLARED PLOVER (Charadrius collaris)
Jacanidae (Jacanas)
WATTLED JACANA (Jacana jacana)
Scolopacidae (Sandpipers and Allies)
Participant George Sims captured this fine image of a Black Caracara.
SOLITARY SANDPIPER (Tringa solitaria)
Laridae (Gulls, Terns, and Skimmers)
YELLOW-BILLED TERN (Sternula superciliaris)
LARGE-BILLED TERN (Phaetusa simplex)
BLACK SKIMMER (Rynchops niger)
Columbidae (Pigeons and Doves)
PALE-VENTED PIGEON (Patagioenas cayennensis)
PLUMBEOUS PIGEON (Patagioenas plumbea)
RUDDY PIGEON (Patagioenas subvinacea)
RUDDY GROUND-DOVE (Columbina talpacoti)
GRAY-FRONTED DOVE (Leptotila rufaxilla)
RUDDY QUAIL-DOVE (Geotrygon montana)
Opisthocomidae (Hoatzin)
HOATZIN (Opisthocomus hoazin)
Cuculidae (Cuckoos)
SQUIRREL CUCKOO (Piaya cayana)
BLACK-BELLIED CUCKOO (Piaya melanogaster) – This cuckoo just didn't want to come into view...darn it!
GREATER ANI (Crotophaga major)
SMOOTH-BILLED ANI (Crotophaga ani)
Strigidae (Owls)
TAWNY-BELLIED SCREECH-OWL (AUSTRAL) (Megascops watsonii usta) [*]
CRESTED OWL (Lophostrix cristata) [*]
AMAZONIAN PYGMY-OWL (Glaucidium hardyi) – We had a neck-breaking view of this tiny owl one of the times we were using its vocalization to lure a mixed flock.
FERRUGINOUS PYGMY-OWL (Glaucidium brasilianum) [*]
Caprimulgidae (Nightjars and Allies)
SAND-COLORED NIGHTHAWK (Chordeiles rupestris) – We had some distant views of some individuals that blended very well with their environment.
LADDER-TAILED NIGHTJAR (Hydropsalis climacocerca) – A male was spotted roosting at the volcanic rocks on the Tambopata river.
OCELLATED POORWILL (Nyctiphrynus ocellatus) – We enjoyed great views in daylight of a female nesting. [N]
Nyctibiidae (Potoos)
GREAT POTOO (Nyctibius grandis) – A young individual was seen at the Tres Chimbadas lake trail. Rodolfo knew where they had seen a female with a chick weeks before and we scored.
LONG-TAILED POTOO (Nyctibius aethereus) – With this bird we got VERY lucky. On a previous trip I did to Refugio Amazonas, I saw this bird at its roosting place. When we were there, we found the bird, but I noticed that the stump where it was had some leaves growing, which I guessed must have bothered it as the next day, when we were going to look for the Harpy Eagle, the potoo wasn't there anymore.
Apodidae (Swifts)
Razor-billed Curassow comes with a very cool hood ornament! (Photo by guide Pepe Rojas)
GRAY-RUMPED SWIFT (Chaetura cinereiventris)
FORK-TAILED PALM-SWIFT (Tachornis squamata)
Trochilidae (Hummingbirds)
WHITE-NECKED JACOBIN (Florisuga mellivora) – We saw this species at the clearing in TRC.
RUFOUS-BREASTED HERMIT (Glaucis hirsutus) – One spotted by Martin at the Fish Pond.
WHITE-BEARDED HERMIT (Phaethornis hispidus) – The common visitor to the heliconias at the TRC clearing.
REDDISH HERMIT (Phaethornis ruber) – We came across a lek of these birds, but they were really buried in the forest and we couldn't find them. [*]
FESTIVE COQUETTE (Lophornis chalybeus) – This one was a great surprise at the TRC clearing.
GOULD'S JEWELFRONT (Heliodoxa aurescens) – Our best view of this bird was actually of a male taking some insects from a spider web -- a feeding strategy known as kleptoparasitism.
LONG-BILLED STARTHROAT (Heliomaster longirostris) – How can anybody confuse this bird with any other hummingbird...just look at the bill! We saw a female perched near the clearing at TRC.
GRAY-BREASTED SABREWING (Campylopterus largipennis) – We had a brief look of an individual at the heliconias in Posada Amazonas.
FORK-TAILED WOODNYMPH (Thalurania furcata) – We had good looks at male and female.
SAPPHIRE-SPANGLED EMERALD (Amazilia lactea)
WHITE-CHINNED SAPPHIRE (Hylocharis cyanus) – A beauty with an unmistakable orange bill with a dark tip.
Trogonidae (Trogons)
PAVONINE QUETZAL (Pharomachrus pavoninus) – We scored this amazing bird at Refugio Amazonas, where we had a very responsive male allowing great views.
BLACK-TAILED TROGON (Trogon melanurus)
BLUE-CROWNED TROGON (Trogon curucui)
COLLARED TROGON (Trogon collaris)
Momotidae (Motmots)
AMAZONIAN MOTMOT (Momotus momota)
RUFOUS MOTMOT (Baryphthengus martii)
BROAD-BILLED MOTMOT (Electron platyrhynchum)
Alcedinidae (Kingfishers)
RINGED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle torquata)
AMAZON KINGFISHER (Chloroceryle amazona)
GREEN KINGFISHER (Chloroceryle americana)
GREEN-AND-RUFOUS KINGFISHER (Chloroceryle inda)
AMERICAN PYGMY KINGFISHER (Chloroceryle aenea) – During one of our hikes around TRC, Martin spotted this little gem.
Bucconidae (Puffbirds)
WHITE-NECKED PUFFBIRD (Notharchus hyperrhynchus) – From the canopy tower in Posada Amazonas.
CHESTNUT-CAPPED PUFFBIRD (Bucco macrodactylus) – We had this one from the small bamboo patch at TRC after hearing its vocalization. It sneaked in and perched above our heads almost undetected.
STRIOLATED PUFFBIRD (Nystalus striolatus) – The best looks were from the tower in Posada Amazonas. Later, during our rainout day, Rodolfo's sharp eyes got us another pair in the rain.
SEMICOLLARED PUFFBIRD (Malacoptila semicincta) – This one took a lot of patience and perseverance to find, but it was worth it.
BLACK-FRONTED NUNBIRD (Monasa nigrifrons) [N]
WHITE-FRONTED NUNBIRD (Monasa morphoeus)
YELLOW-BILLED NUNBIRD (Monasa flavirostris) – We had great scope views of a bird sitting above the dining room at Posada Amazonas.
SWALLOW-WINGED PUFFBIRD (Chelidoptera tenebrosa)
Galbulidae (Jacamars)
WHITE-THROATED JACAMAR (Brachygalba albogularis) – One of our specialties that was well seen at TRC.
We had several encounters with Pale-winged Trumpeters, but certainly this one at TRC was one of the highlights of the trip. (Video by guide Pepe Rojas)
GREAT JACAMAR (Jacamerops aureus)
Capitonidae (New World Barbets)
GILDED BARBET (Capito auratus)
SCARLET-HOODED BARBET (Eubucco tucinkae) – We had a very responsive pair at the fish pond that allowed great scope views. A gem!
Ramphastidae (Toucans)
EMERALD TOUCANET (BLACK-THROATED) (Aulacorhynchus prasinus atrogularis) [*]
LETTERED ARACARI (Pteroglossus inscriptus) – From the tower at Posada Amazonas we had the best looks of this handsome bird.
CHESTNUT-EARED ARACARI (Pteroglossus castanotis) – This was the most common species of the family, and we saw it several times during the tour.
IVORY-BILLED ARACARI (BROWN-BILLED) (Pteroglossus azara mariae) – We saw an individual sitting by a hole in a tree where it might have been nesting. [N]
CURL-CRESTED ARACARI (Pteroglossus beauharnaesii) – It is uncanny to see the feathers in the head of this species. They look like plastic strips!
GOLDEN-COLLARED TOUCANET (Selenidera reinwardtii) – After dealing with some dense foliage and a bad angle, we were able to get excellent views of a responsive pair.
WHITE-THROATED TOUCAN (Ramphastos tucanus cuvieri) – The "yelper"....
CHANNEL-BILLED TOUCAN (YELLOW-RIDGED) (Ramphastos vitellinus culminatus) – ...and the "croaker", both well seen and heard.
Picidae (Woodpeckers)
RUFOUS-BREASTED PICULET (Picumnus rufiventris) – Another great bird that we were able to score. [N]
YELLOW-TUFTED WOODPECKER (Melanerpes cruentatus) – Our first encounter with this species was at the Posada Amazonas tower, where we had a very active (and responsive) pair.
LITTLE WOODPECKER (Veniliornis passerinus) – I believe this was one of the first birds of the trip. Seen well while we waited to embark at the river port.
RED-STAINED WOODPECKER (Veniliornis affinis) – And this one was seen very well also at the forest around Posada Amazonas as part of a mixed flock.
GOLDEN-GREEN WOODPECKER (Piculus chrysochloros) – A nice male was seen from the tower at Posada Amazonas.
CREAM-COLORED WOODPECKER (Celeus flavus) – I believe George was the only one who saw this species while birding around TRC.
RUFOUS-HEADED WOODPECKER (Celeus spectabilis) – Phew! After several unsuccessful encounters with this bird, we had a wonderful pair that responded and (more importantly) behaved really well, allowing us to enjoy great looks. It was worth it every single drop of sweat we spent! A great bird and one of my favorite woodpeckers.
LINEATED WOODPECKER (Dryocopus lineatus)
RED-NECKED WOODPECKER (Campephilus rubricollis) – At the Tres Chimbadas lake trail we saw three and later around TRC we had another pair.
This was a fine tour for parrots of all kinds, including these Mealies. (Photo by participant George Sims)
Falconidae (Falcons and Caracaras)
BLACK CARACARA (Daptrius ater)
RED-THROATED CARACARA (Ibycter americanus) – Almost a "heard only" but during our last boat ride to Puerto Maldonado we had at least one individual flying across the river.
LAUGHING FALCON (Herpetotheres cachinnans) [*]
BAT FALCON (Falco rufigularis)
PEREGRINE FALCON (Falco peregrinus) – This one almost went undetected but we had it. First time I've see a Peregrine in this area.
Psittacidae (Parrots)
BLACK-CAPPED PARAKEET (Pyrrhura rupicola) – The best looks of this pretty bird were from the tower at Posada Amazonas, where an individual came to check out the Amazonian Pygmy-Owl call we were playing.
WHITE-EYED PARAKEET (Aratinga leucophthalma) – Some flyby flocks.
DUSKY-HEADED PARAKEET (Aratinga weddellii) – A pair perched on top of a branchy tree was seen while coming down river to Puerto Maldonado.
CHESTNUT-FRONTED MACAW (Ara severus) – Great looks at the TRC clay lick.
RED-AND-GREEN MACAW (Ara chloropterus) – Our first encounters were from the tower at Posada Amazonas. Later we enjoyed better looks at the other clay licks we visited.
SCARLET MACAW (Ara macao) – Most abundant around the TRC area.
BLUE-AND-YELLOW MACAW (Ara ararauna) – A favorite of many.
RED-BELLIED MACAW (Orthopsittaca manilata) – A very gregarious species of macaw that we saw very well at the TRC clay lick.
BLUE-HEADED MACAW (Primolius couloni) – We had only a pair flying by the morning we were at Tres Chimbadas lake. Unfortunately they were absent at the clay lick in TRC.
COBALT-WINGED PARAKEET (Brotogeris cyanoptera) – Our first looks were at the potoo spot at the beginning of the Tres Chimbadas lake trail.
AMAZONIAN PARROTLET (Nannopsittaca dachilleae) – We got very lucky with this species when a pair was spotted at the small clay lick with a flock of Cobalt-winged Parakeets.
WHITE-BELLIED PARROT (Pionites leucogaster) – We enjoyed great looks of these handsome and small parrots at the TRC clay lick.
ORANGE-CHEEKED PARROT (Pyrilia barrabandi) – These birds also were well seen at the clay lick in TRC.
BLUE-HEADED PARROT (Pionus menstruus) – Very common.
YELLOW-CROWNED PARROT (Amazona ochrocephala)
MEALY PARROT (Amazona farinosa)
Thamnophilidae (Typical Antbirds)
BAMBOO ANTSHRIKE (Cymbilaimus sanctaemariae) – After much trying here and there, we had great views of a responsive male our last day.
GREAT ANTSHRIKE (Taraba major) – Despite all our efforts, this one never came into view. [*]
PLAIN-WINGED ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus schistaceus) – We had great views of a responsive pair and later we also enjoyed good views of a female.
WHITE-SHOULDERED ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus aethiops kapouni) [*]
DUSKY-THROATED ANTSHRIKE (Thamnomanes ardesiacus ardesiacus) – One of the core species of the understory mixed flocks we encountered very often.
BLUISH-SLATE ANTSHRIKE (Thamnomanes schistogynus) – This sentinel species of understory mixed flocks was seen several times as well and mostly males, which makes me guess there was some nesting action going on.
PLAIN-THROATED ANTWREN (Isleria hauxwelli) – Seeing this little understory antwren well took us several attempts until we all caught up with it.
Quiet and typically motionless, a Semicollared Puffbird can easily pass undetected in the forest! (Photo by guide Pepe Rojas)
ORNATE ANTWREN (Epinecrophylla ornata meridionalis) – This bamboo specialist was seen well several times.
PYGMY ANTWREN (Myrmotherula brachyura)
AMAZONIAN STREAKED-ANTWREN (Myrmotherula multostriata) – Great looks at Tres Chimbadas lake.
WHITE-FLANKED ANTWREN (Myrmotherula axillaris) – Another core species of understory mixed flock species that we saw very well several times.
LONG-WINGED ANTWREN (Myrmotherula longipennis) – Ditto.
GRAY ANTWREN (Myrmotherula menetriesii menetriesii) – Ditto.
BANDED ANTBIRD (Dichrozona cincta) – We flushed an individual one afternoon during one of our afternoon hikes. It turned out to be one of a pair which was probably doing a courtship display, I don't know. Later when we came back with Joan and Jan, we found the same pair again, which was nicely seen. It always amazes me how well the colors of this species blend in the forest floor; along with the way it walks, the species can be almost imperceptible. One of my favorite antbirds.
DOT-WINGED ANTWREN (Microrhopias quixensis albicauda) – The individuals we saw in this part of Peru belong to the taxon albicauda, which is distributed in South Eastern Peru and adjacent Northern Bolivia, more specifically in Pando.
STRIATED ANTBIRD (Drymophila devillei) – Our first encounter with this species was rather frustrating, with almost no looks of the bird as it kept dashing back and forth among the vegetation. Later, we saw it VERY well for extended periods of time while foraging, totally oblivious to our presence...go figure!
PERUVIAN WARBLING-ANTBIRD (Hypocnemis peruviana) – Well seen in the right habitat.
YELLOW-BREASTED WARBLING-ANTBIRD (Hypocnemis subflava collinsi) – Another well-behaved antbird that we saw very well.
GRAY ANTBIRD (Cercomacra cinerascens) – We were so close of this bird, but it did not cooperate! [*]
BLACKISH ANTBIRD (FUSCICAUDA) (Cercomacra nigrescens fuscicauda) – At the Fish Pond we had a pair that was rather responsive and allowed us to enjoy great views.
BLACK-FACED ANTBIRD (Myrmoborus myotherinus) – We had an individual that responded "right in our faces." I mean a male literally flew and perched right in front of us so close that binoculars were useless....you've got to love those moments!
SILVERED ANTBIRD (Sclateria naevia) – A responsive female came at Tres Chimbadas lake, but surprisingly no males showed up.
WHITE-LINED ANTBIRD (Percnostola lophotes) – We had a nice pair that responded right away in the bamboo patch at Posada Amazonas. We even saw the male raising his crest as he looked at us.
CHESTNUT-TAILED ANTBIRD (Myrmeciza hemimelaena) – This great forest interior antbird cooperated very well, and we all enjoyed very good looks at male and female.
GOELDI'S ANTBIRD (Myrmeciza goeldii) – Another bamboo specialist that we saw well on the bamboo trail in Posada Amazonas lodge.
PLUMBEOUS ANTBIRD (Myrmeciza hyperythra) – This one likes more seasonally flooded areas and it was precisely in one of those places on the trail system of TRC that we had a responsive pair.
WHITE-THROATED ANTBIRD (Gymnopithys salvini) – This bird responded very quickly to the playback and then played hard to get. At least we had great looks at a female showing the banded tail pattern.
COMMON SCALE-BACKED ANTBIRD (GRAY-BREASTED) (Willisornis poecilinotus griseiventris) – While enjoying great looks at the Harpy Eagle, we heard this small antbird and we were rewarded by great looks at a male that responded very well to a whistle.
BLACK-SPOTTED BARE-EYE (Phlegopsis nigromaculata) – We had quick views of these birds.
Grallariidae (Antpittas)
AMAZONIAN ANTPITTA (Hylopezus berlepschi) – We had a responsive individual that didn't stick around for too long to allow views for everybody.
Formicariidae (Antthrushes)
RUFOUS-CAPPED ANTTHRUSH (Formicarius colma) – This one behaved really well, coming to a small log where it was seen perfectly.
BLACK-FACED ANTTHRUSH (Formicarius analis) – The commonest antthrush of the trip.
With all the other hyphenated bird names, why don't we just call this Long-tailed Stump-Bird, eh? Potoos are so cool... (Photo by guide Pepe Rojas)
Furnariidae (Ovenbirds and Woodcreepers)
BLACK-TAILED LEAFTOSSER (Sclerurus caudacutus) – We had brief looks at an individual that was flushed by a Black-faced Antthrush.
OLIVACEOUS WOODCREEPER (Sittasomus griseicapillus) – Heard and seen well.
LONG-TAILED WOODCREEPER (Deconychura longicauda) – This one was also well seen during one of our forest hikes.
PLAIN-BROWN WOODCREEPER (LINE-THROATED) (Dendrocincla fuliginosa atrirostris) – We came across this species few times but we went empty handed. [*]
WEDGE-BILLED WOODCREEPER (Glyphorynchus spirurus) – The smallest of the woodcreepers was seen several times during our tour.
CINNAMON-THROATED WOODCREEPER (Dendrexetastes rufigula) – We had great views of this species from the platform at the Fish Pond.
AMAZONIAN BARRED-WOODCREEPER (JURUA) (Dendrocolaptes certhia juruanus) [*]
ELEGANT WOODCREEPER (Xiphorhynchus elegans juruanus) – This was the second most common species of woodcreeper...
BUFF-THROATED WOODCREEPER (LAFRESNAYE'S) (Xiphorhynchus guttatus guttatoides) – ...and this one ws the commonest.
RED-BILLED SCYTHEBILL (Campylorhamphus trochilirostris) – Great views of a responsive individual at TRC.
INAMBARI WOODCREEPER (Lepidocolaptes fatimalimae) – This canopy dweller was seen at TRC.
PLAIN XENOPS (Xenops minutus) – Our first encounter with this small furnariid was during the chaos of our encounter with a mixed flock. The second and better sighting was later, when we had excellent views of a responsive individual.
PALE-LEGGED HORNERO (Furnarius leucopus) – Seen well the times we were at the clay lick.
DUSKY-CHEEKED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Anabazenops dorsalis) – While birding at the Fish Pond, we heard one spontaneously vocalizing, but it did not respond to our efforts to lure it out of cover for some looks. Too bad! [*]
CHESTNUT-WINGED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Philydor erythropterum) – With mixed flocks.
CHESTNUT-WINGED HOOKBILL (Ancistrops strigilatus) – Ditto.
OLIVE-BACKED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (OLIVE-BACKED) (Automolus infuscatus infuscatus) – Seen in the terra firme mixed flocks around Posada Amazonas.
BROWN-RUMPED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Automolus melanopezus) – We had excellent views of this bamboo specialist by a fortunate stroke of serendipity, when an individual was foraging on the open. Normally this species is difficult to get into view.
CHESTNUT-CROWNED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Automolus rufipileatus) [*]
Tyrannidae (Tyrant Flycatchers)
FOREST ELAENIA (Myiopagis gaimardii) – Talk about neck-breaking views! This one was playing hard to get but patience and perseverance prevailed.
MOTTLE-BACKED ELAENIA (Elaenia gigas) – The best looks we had were from the clay lick, where the individual we were watching was flashing its white crest.
SEPIA-CAPPED FLYCATCHER (Leptopogon amaurocephalus) – During our walk to the lake, Martin had some looks, but it was mostly heard for the rest of the group. [*]
SLENDER-FOOTED TYRANNULET (Zimmerius gracilipes) [*]
RINGED ANTPIPIT (Corythopis torquatus) – We enjoyed wonderful views of this terrestrial flycatcher at TRC after we thought we had lost it because of the commotion caused by a troop of monkeys. Luckily the bird showed nicely.
SHORT-TAILED PYGMY-TYRANT (Myiornis ecaudatus) [*]
FLAMMULATED PYGMY-TYRANT (Hemitriccus flammulatus) [*]
Seeing a tapir is always an exciting event. Seeing four on one tour is quite something! (Photo by guide Pepe Rojas)
WHITE-CHEEKED TODY-FLYCATCHER (Poecilotriccus albifacies) – We saw a responsive female at the bamboo patch at Tres Chimbadas lake, but no male.
RUSTY-FRONTED TODY-FLYCATCHER (Poecilotriccus latirostris) – This one was seen while we tried to lure the previous species.
YELLOW-BROWED TODY-FLYCATCHER (Todirostrum chrysocrotaphum) – This little gem was nicely seen while waiting for our boat at the Tambopata river port.
YELLOW-MARGINED FLYCATCHER (ZIMMER'S) (Tolmomyias assimilis clarus) – After only hearing this bird for most the tour, we finally caught very fine views of two individuals that joined a mixed flock and were low enough to allow us to see them....phew!
GRAY-CROWNED FLYCATCHER (Tolmomyias poliocephalus) – Our best looks were from the tower at Posada Amazonas, where we had eye-level views of this little flycatcher.
YELLOW-BREASTED FLYCATCHER (Tolmomyias flaviventris)
GOLDEN-CROWNED SPADEBILL (Platyrinchus coronatus) [*]
ROYAL FLYCATCHER (AMAZONIAN) (Onychorhynchus coronatus castelnaui) – We had amazing views of this species at a lek. Another moment when binoculars were not necessary.
EULER'S FLYCATCHER (Lathrotriccus euleri) [*]
VERMILION FLYCATCHER (Pyrocephalus rubinus) – We saw at least one that glowed like a beacon amongst the vegetation. This is the Austral migrant that winters as far north as Colombia. [a]
DRAB WATER TYRANT (Ochthornis littoralis) – This species was seen every time we were at the river.
LITTLE GROUND-TYRANT (Muscisaxicola fluviatilis) – Joan and Jan saw this species with Rodolfo during one of their boat outings.
LARGE-HEADED FLATBILL (Ramphotrigon megacephalum) – It was a great surprise to hear and see this bird at the new growing bamboo patch at TRC.
DULL-CAPPED ATTILA (Attila bolivianus) – On our way to Puerto Maldonado we made a short stop to look for Purus Jacamars. Well, they weren't home -- instead we had a Dull-capped Attila calling incessantly that responded very well to my tape.
Yellow-tufted Woodpeckers (Photo by participant George Sims)
SIRYSTES (Sirystes sibilator) [*]
GRAYISH MOURNER (Rhytipterna simplex) – Not the most eye-catching species, but we had a very cooperative individual on the TRC trails.
SWAINSON'S FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus swainsoni) – We saw this bird several times on our tour. Probably getting ready to go South soon. [a]
SHORT-CRESTED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus ferox) – We had been missing this species for almost the whole tour until we finally got it at the Dull-capped Attila spot.
GREAT KISKADEE (Pitangus sulphuratus)
BOAT-BILLED FLYCATCHER (Megarynchus pitangua)
SOCIAL FLYCATCHER (Myiozetetes similis)
GRAY-CAPPED FLYCATCHER (Myiozetetes granadensis)
STREAKED FLYCATCHER (Myiodynastes maculatus)
CROWNED SLATY FLYCATCHER (Empidonomus aurantioatrocristatus) [a]
TROPICAL KINGBIRD (Tyrannus melancholicus)
EASTERN KINGBIRD (Tyrannus tyrannus) – We started to see more and more of these boreal migrants in larger flocks. [b]
FORK-TAILED FLYCATCHER (Tyrannus savana) – And this species also associated with the previous species in flocks. [a]
Cotingidae (Cotingas)
PURPLE-THROATED FRUITCROW (Querula purpurata) – We came across this species several times, but without doubt the best looks were one morning with the early light shining on its ruff.
SCREAMING PIHA (Lipaugus vociferans) [*]
BARE-NECKED FRUITCROW (Gymnoderus foetidus) – I was amazed how easy it was to see this species at this time of the year. We had great looks at males and females, flying and perched, from the canopy tower in Posada Amazonas.
Pipridae (Manakins)
DWARF TYRANT-MANAKIN (Tyranneutes stolzmanni)
FIERY-CAPPED MANAKIN (Machaeropterus pyrocephalus) [*]
ROUND-TAILED MANAKIN (Ceratopipra chloromeros) – This little gem was nicely seen first at Posada Amazonas in a lek by the tower. Later we saw other individuals, including females, around TRC.
BAND-TAILED MANAKIN (Pipra fasciicauda) – We also enjoyed great views of males and females around TRC.
BLUE-CROWNED MANAKIN (Lepidothrix coronata) – I don't know if I was more excited for the fact that I remembered the exact location of a lek of these birds from years ago or the fact that they were still there! In any case, we had great looks of at least a very responsive male that came after we played the tape. It is important to highlight the fact that the birds in this part of the species' range have green bodies instead of black.
Tityridae (Tityras and Allies)
BLACK-TAILED TITYRA (Tityra cayana) – The best looks at this bird were from the tower at Posada Amazonas, where we witnessed a pair of aracaris trying to raid their nest. [N]
MASKED TITYRA (Tityra semifasciata) – We saw this bird at the Fish Pond.
VARZEA SCHIFFORNIS (Schiffornis major) [*]
CINEREOUS MOURNER (Laniocera hypopyrra) – This one was a nice surprise. We were playing the Banded Antbird vocalization when something else appeared on the scene, too high to be the antbird. It turned out to be this species.
WHITE-WINGED BECARD (Pachyramphus polychopterus) [*]
BLACK-CAPPED BECARD (Pachyramphus marginatus) – With the mixed flocks we encountered.
PINK-THROATED BECARD (Pachyramphus minor) – Ditto.
Vireonidae (Vireos)
Bluish-fronted Jacamar in a nice portrait by participant George Sims
DUSKY-CAPPED GREENLET (Hylophilus hypoxanthus) – We had a responsive individual which came very low to check us out.
Corvidae (Crows, Jays, and Magpies)
PURPLISH JAY (Cyanocorax cyanomelas)
VIOLACEOUS JAY (Cyanocorax violaceus)
Hirundinidae (Swallows)
WHITE-BANDED SWALLOW (Atticora fasciata)
SOUTHERN ROUGH-WINGED SWALLOW (Stelgidopteryx ruficollis)
BROWN-CHESTED MARTIN (Progne tapera)
WHITE-WINGED SWALLOW (Tachycineta albiventer)
Troglodytidae (Wrens)
THRUSH-LIKE WREN (Campylorhynchus turdinus) – This relative of the cactus Wren was well seen around TRC.
MOUSTACHED WREN (Pheugopedius genibarbis) – We had great looks at this species in the bamboo patches around Posada Amazonas and TRC.
MUSICIAN WREN (Cyphorhinus arada) – This bird behaved exceptionally well...twice! An unforgettable vocalization.
Donacobiidae (Donacobius)
BLACK-CAPPED DONACOBIUS (Donacobius atricapilla)
Turdidae (Thrushes and Allies)
HAUXWELL'S THRUSH (Turdus hauxwelli) – We had good looks at this species in a tree in the clearing around TRC.
LAWRENCE'S THRUSH (Turdus lawrencii) – We were very lucky with this bird because we kept hearing it here and there, but it wasn't until we found a tree with fruits that we could see this species as it fought with a White-necked Thrush.
BLACK-BILLED THRUSH (Turdus ignobilis) – Very common around the clay lick. [N]
WHITE-NECKED THRUSH (Turdus albicollis) – This one was seen also at the same tree with the Lawrence's Thrush and later foraging on the ground near TRC.
Parulidae (New World Warblers)
BUFF-RUMPED WARBLER (Myiothlypis fulvicauda) – The best looks of this bird were at the small creek by the "infamous" water pump.
Thraupidae (Tanagers and Allies)
RED-CAPPED CARDINAL (Paroaria gularis)
MAGPIE TANAGER (Cissopis leverianus) – The first time I saw a magpie in California, I understood why that name fits this bird perfectly.
WHITE-SHOULDERED TANAGER (Tachyphonus luctuosus) – One of the common species we found in canopy flocks.
WHITE-WINGED SHRIKE-TANAGER (Lanio versicolor) – The male and female sentinel species of canopy flocks were seen nicely.
MASKED CRIMSON TANAGER (Ramphocelus nigrogularis) – What a beauty!
SILVER-BEAKED TANAGER (Ramphocelus carbo) – There was a pair nesting at the area designated for folks wanting to watch the macaws. [N]
BLUE-GRAY TANAGER (Thraupis episcopus)
PALM TANAGER (Thraupis palmarum)
MASKED TANAGER (Tangara nigrocincta)
YELLOW-BELLIED TANAGER (Tangara xanthogastra)
TURQUOISE TANAGER (Tangara mexicana)
PARADISE TANAGER (Tangara chilensis)
GREEN-AND-GOLD TANAGER (Tangara schrankii)
BLACK-FACED DACNIS (Dacnis lineata)
YELLOW-BELLIED DACNIS (Dacnis flaviventer)
BLUE DACNIS (Dacnis cayana)
PURPLE HONEYCREEPER (Cyanerpes caeruleus)
GREEN HONEYCREEPER (Chlorophanes spiza)
GUIRA TANAGER (Hemithraupis guira)
Chestnut-eared Aracari (Photo by participant George Sims)
SLATE-COLORED SEEDEATER (Sporophila schistacea) – WOW! What a nice surprise it was to see and hear this species so close! It was my second encounter with it. A bird that is rather rare and localized.
DOUBLE-COLLARED SEEDEATER (Sporophila caerulescens) [a]
CHESTNUT-BELLIED SEEDEATER (Sporophila castaneiventris)
GRAYISH SALTATOR (Saltator coerulescens)
BUFF-THROATED SALTATOR (Saltator maximus) [*]
SLATE-COLORED GROSBEAK (Saltator grossus) [*]
Emberizidae (Buntings and New World Sparrows)
PECTORAL SPARROW (Arremon taciturnus)
YELLOW-BROWED SPARROW (Ammodramus aurifrons)
Cardinalidae (Cardinals and Allies)
RED-CROWNED ANT-TANAGER (Habia rubica) – We came across this species several times associated with mixed flocks.
BLUE-BLACK GROSBEAK (Cyanocompsa cyanoides) [*]
Icteridae (Troupials and Allies)
PALE-EYED BLACKBIRD (Agelasticus xanthophthalmus) – Speaking of surprises, during our boat ride to TRC somebody spotted these birds foraging by a side of the river, and I got a little window to check them out (the eye color was unmistakable) to identify them before they moved away. A rare bird to see at Tambopata!
GIANT COWBIRD (Molothrus oryzivorus)
EPAULET ORIOLE (Icterus cayanensis) – Our best looks of the species were from the clearing at TRC.
SOLITARY BLACK CACIQUE (Cacicus solitarius) [*]
YELLOW-RUMPED CACIQUE (Cacicus cela)
RUSSET-BACKED OROPENDOLA (Psarocolius angustifrons)
CRESTED OROPENDOLA (Psarocolius decumanus)
OLIVE OROPENDOLA (Psarocolius bifasciatus)
CASQUED OROPENDOLA (Clypicterus oseryi)
Fringillidae (Siskins, Crossbills, and Allies)
GOLDEN-BELLIED EUPHONIA (Euphonia chrysopasta)
ORANGE-BELLIED EUPHONIA (Euphonia xanthogaster)
RUFOUS-BELLIED EUPHONIA (Euphonia rufiventris)
MAMMALS
WHITE-BELLIED SLENDER OPOSSUM (Marmosops noctivagus)
SADDLEBACK TAMARIN (Saguinus fuscicollis)
COMMON SQUIRREL MONKEY (Saimiri sciureus)
THREE-STRIPED NIGHT MONKEY (Aotus trivirgatus) [*]
DUSKY TITI MONKEY (Callicebus moloch)
RED HOWLER MONKEY (Alouatta seniculus)
BROWN CAPUCHIN (Cebus apella) – We saw a young capuchin monkey raiding a trogon's nest and eating the eggs right in front of us. As sad as it was from the birds' perspective, it was amazing to witness something like this.
BLACK SPIDER MONKEY (Ateles paniscus) – This is a very rare species of monkey to see elsewhere even within the Amazon basin, but here they were very common because of the protection in the area. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified this species as Endangered.
SOUTHERN TWO-TOED SLOTH (Choloepus didactylus) – While looking for a hummingbird that had perched somewhere above our heads, Rodolfo surprised himself by finding a sleeping sloth well hidden among the vegetation.
SOUTHERN AMAZON RED SQUIRREL (Sciurus spadiceus)
CAPYBARA (Hydrochaeris hydrochaeris)
BROWN AGOUTI (Dasyprocta variegata)
SHORT-EARED DOG (Atelocynus microtis) – Another very rare mammal that was seen around TRC.
TAYRA (Eira barbara)
GIANT OTTER (Pteronura brasiliensis)
BRAZILIAN TAPIR (Tapirus terrestris) – I don't recall seen so many tapirs on a tour: four. It was great to see the largest mammal of the rainforest so many times!
WHITE-LIPPED PECCARY (Tayassu pecari) – What can I say about these beasts? There might be 300-400 hundred individuals around TRC, and they even venture into the clearing. What a great sight...but not so nice a smell!
Herps
GIANT AMEIVA (Ameiva ameiva)
SPECTACLED CAIMAN (Caiman crocodilus)
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Totals for the tour: 313 bird taxa and 17 mammal taxa