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The canopy towers at Sacha allowed us to get up into the habitat of some really spectacular birds, like this troop of Many-banded Aracaris. These were one of 6 toucan species that we were able to find on the tour. Photo by participant Stan Lilley.
Sacha Lodge is always such a joy to visit; the birding is excellent (with great local guides... thanks Oscar!), the accommodations and service are almost too good to be true for such a remote spot, and the food always imaginative and hearty! During our week here, we scoured the diverse habitat-types, from blackwater streams and lakes, to lush terra firme forest trails and river islands. The canopy towers, though, are really what it is all about here, and there was almost never a dull moment during our hours of observation from these magnificent structures that allow us to reach a world essentially not effectively bird-able otherwise; the constant stream of close tanagers in your face, perched raptors, and other fascinating birds and wildlife kept our heads spinning, this is for sure!
As always during a birding trip to Ecuador's Amazon, there is a long list of fabulous birds at the end of the tour, rare, beautiful, or both. Hard to name them all here - that's what the list is for (!) - so here are some that I think really sent our trip over the top: that shy and very hard to see Variegated Tinamou that crept in after some perseverance; those large Spix's Guans right overhead next to the lodge; all of those goofy Hoatzins out on the lake edge that kept us entertained; Zigzag Heron as it called and swooped by a few times; a perched Agami Heron at close range; our marvelous Crested Eagle from the tower that sat for unbelievable scope studies; both Tawny-bellied Screech-Owl and Crested Owl at day roosts; some nice puffbirds, including White-necked and Pied, as well as that Lanceolated Monklet; all of those colorful jacamars and toucans; that smashing pair of Cream-colored Woodpeckers heading to roost; some wonderful parrots, parakeets, and macaws, but the show of the Cobalt-winged Parakeets at the in-forest clay lick was just unforgettable; some fine antbirds, but that scoped male Lunulated has to be the undisputed winner; excellent looks at both Short-billed and Black-tailed Leaftossers; a slew of flycatcher species, but I'd have to say that those tody-flycatchers (Spotted and Yellow-browed) take top honors; all of those colorful and whacky cotinga species from the towers; our eleventh-hour Orange-crested Manakin; those cute little White-browed Purpletufts from the towers; that Scaly-breasted Wren that posed without fear; all of those flashy euphonias; scope views of the unusual Green Oropendola from the Kapok tower; and a head-spinning set of dazzling tanagers... hard to pick a favorite, but Paradise and Masked Crimson certainly blew us away!
It wasn't only about the birds, because we also took the time to enjoy other wildlife that we stumbled into, some of the most memorable being all of those active Squirrel Monkeys, that small troop of rare Monk Sakis, and the very local Golden-mantle Tamarin that squeaked at us in alarm as they jumped about overhead; sure wish that Giant Anteater that was crashing around near us had emerged a bit more out of the undergrowth, but it was still a thrill!
So go ahead and turn some pages to relive the memories! I want thank you all for making this trip such a blast to lead, and hope to get out there in the field together sometime again soon!
Mitch
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 also had stellar views of some great tanagers including this stunning Paradise Tanager. Photo by participant Duane Morse.
Tinamidae (Tinamous)
GREAT TINAMOU (Tinamus major) – This large tinamou was seen by a few either on the ground or in flight... wish they had stuck around a tad longer!
CINEREOUS TINAMOU (Crypturellus cinereus) [*]
UNDULATED TINAMOU (Crypturellus undulatus) [*]
VARIEGATED TINAMOU (Crypturellus variegatus) – The angle was tricky, but most folks tagged in with decent, and even excellent, views of this rarely seen tinamou along the trails near the lodge... wow!
Cracidae (Guans, Chachalacas, and Curassows)
SPECKLED CHACHALACA (Ortalis guttata) – Fairly common, and seen well out along the Napo River.
SPIX'S GUAN (Penelope jacquacu) – Marianne spotted this one for us right behind the lodge for some nice views as they foraged about high up in the canopy.
Odontophoridae (New World Quail)
MARBLED WOOD-QUAIL (Odontophorus gujanensis) [*]
Columbidae (Pigeons and Doves)
ROCK PIGEON (Columba livia) [I]
PALE-VENTED PIGEON (Patagioenas cayennensis) – Common along river and lake edges, and a very attractive pigeon when seen well!
PLUMBEOUS PIGEON (Patagioenas plumbea) – Nice scope views of a responsive bird near the lodge.
RUDDY PIGEON (Patagioenas subvinacea) – Seen well from the canopy walkway.
COMMON GROUND-DOVE (Columbina passerina) – Brief views of a bird flying off at the San Jose Garden Hotel.
RUDDY GROUND-DOVE (Columbina talpacoti) – One seen briefly by some out on a river island.
SAPPHIRE QUAIL-DOVE (Geotrygon saphirina) [*]
One of the best moments of the tour was watching this flock of Cobalt-winged Parakeets at the salt lick in the forest. Photo by participant Rick Woodruff.
WHITE-TIPPED DOVE (Leptotila verreauxi) [*]
GRAY-FRONTED DOVE (Leptotila rufaxilla) [*]
EARED DOVE (Zenaida auriculata) – Common in the central valley.
Cuculidae (Cuckoos)
GREATER ANI (Crotophaga major) – This large and striking ani was seen well a number of times out along Pilchecocha and the Napo River. This species' iridescent colors really shine in the right light.
SMOOTH-BILLED ANI (Crotophaga ani)
SQUIRREL CUCKOO (Piaya cayana) – Good looks from the canopy walkway towers.
Caprimulgidae (Nightjars and Allies)
LADDER-TAILED NIGHTJAR (Hydropsalis climacocerca) – Oscar spotted a male for us out along the Napo River on a day perch!
Nyctibiidae (Potoos)
GREAT POTOO (Nyctibius grandis) [*]
Apodidae (Swifts)
WHITE-COLLARED SWIFT (Streptoprocne zonaris) – The large swift that we saw in large groups a few times.
SHORT-TAILED SWIFT (Chaetura brachyura) – The swift with the thick, swept-back wings and cropped off tail.
GRAY-RUMPED SWIFT (Chaetura cinereiventris) – Seen briefly as we paddled out on lake Pilchecocha; longer-tailed than the previous species.
FORK-TAILED PALM-SWIFT (Tachornis squamata) – The slim, pointy-tailed swift that we saw on most days.
Trochilidae (Hummingbirds)
WHITE-NECKED JACOBIN (Florisuga mellivora) – First seen on the Zapote flowers at the Napo dock, but then again later on along the Anaconda stream.
PALE-TAILED BARBTHROAT (Threnetes leucurus leucurus) – One came hovering out over the Orquidea stream during our first paddle through.
During our week at Sacha, we were able to sample some wonderful habitats. Here is a shot of our group birding the Anaconda stream by canoe. Photo by participant Stan Lilley.
WHITE-BEARDED HERMIT (Phaethornis hispidus) – Quick looks at one as it it hovered in front of us across the river at Anangu.
STRAIGHT-BILLED HERMIT (Phaethornis bourcieri) – Marvelous scope views of them at a lek near the lodge. Maybe this one should be called "Straighter-billed Hermit"!
GREAT-BILLED HERMIT (Phaethornis malaris) – Quick views for some across the river at Anangu.
BLACK-THROATED HERMIT (Phaethornis atrimentalis) – One came zipping in along the Anaconda stream for quick views.
SPARKLING VIOLETEAR (Colibri coruscans) – Common in the central valley around the Hosteria San Jose.
BLACK-TAILED TRAINBEARER (Lesbia victoriae victoriae) – We tracked down a young male on our last afternoon of the trip around the San Jose for excellent studies as it fed about on some garden flowers.
WHITE-BELLIED WOODSTAR (Chaetocercus mulsant) – We had one female on our first day before our flight to Coca around the San Jose as it fed on canopy flowers.
WESTERN EMERALD (Chlorostilbon melanorhynchus melanorhynchus) – A tiny and fantastically glittering hummer species of the central valley. This one was split from the following species some time back as they occupy completely different habitats.
BLUE-TAILED EMERALD (Chlorostilbon mellisugus) – Seen along the swampy edges of lake Pilchecocha at Sacha as it perched up on a dead snag.
FORK-TAILED WOODNYMPH (Thalurania furcata) – Seen briefly by a few of us after lunch at Sacha when a male fed at some purple flowers along the boardwalk.
OLIVE-SPOTTED HUMMINGBIRD (Leucippus chlorocercus) – A river island specialist that we scoped singing!
GLITTERING-THROATED EMERALD (Amazilia fimbriata) – The hummer with the white stripe down the belly, making it very easy to identify!
Opisthocomidae (Hoatzin)
HOATZIN (Opisthocomus hoazin) – Ok, everybody cough... uugh! Good imitation! This comical species, that I always characterize as being a cross between a clown and punk-rocker, entertained us numerous times! We even found one on a nest along the edges of Pilchecocha. [N]
Rallidae (Rails, Gallinules, and Coots)
GRAY-COWLED WOOD-RAIL (Aramides cajaneus) – Mike caught quick views out along the Napo; the rest of us heard it calling.
This Squirrel Monkey is one of a number of these engaging little primates that we saw daily around the lodge. Photo by participant Rick Woodruff.
GRAY-BREASTED CRAKE (Laterallus exilis) – We teased one out on a river island, but it was quick to discover us, and ran off way too fast!
Aramidae (Limpkin)
LIMPKIN (Aramus guarauna) – Common out along the edges of Pilchecocha.
Charadriidae (Plovers and Lapwings)
SOUTHERN LAPWING (Vanellus chilensis) – Fine views of this attractive plover out along the Napo river.
COLLARED PLOVER (Charadrius collaris) – Seen a few times along the Napo.
Scolopacidae (Sandpipers and Allies)
GREATER YELLOWLEGS (Tringa melanoleuca) – We spotted one along the shores of a river island on the Napo. [b]
Anhingidae (Anhingas)
ANHINGA (Anhinga anhinga) – Good looks at a perched bird along the Shipati stream.
Ardeidae (Herons, Egrets, and Bitterns)
ZIGZAG HERON (Zebrilus undulatus) – We had a bitter-sweet experience with this rare little forest heron. We were lucky enough to have even located them as they called back to us, and even managed to get one to fly by for full spotlight views, but the downside was that it never really perched cleanly for us... except for Suellen, who actually caught it sitting for a moment... nice!
RUFESCENT TIGER-HERON (Tigrisoma lineatum) [*]
GREAT EGRET (Ardea alba)
SNOWY EGRET (Egretta thula)
STRIATED HERON (Butorides striata) – One scoped out on a river island.
AGAMI HERON (Agamia agami) – Quick, but fine views of this magnificent swamp forest heron!
CAPPED HERON (Pilherodius pileatus) – Oscar spotted a distant bird flying from the canopy walkway towers, and lucky for us, it perched, so we were able to throw the scopes on it for pretty decent studies... blue bill and all!
BOAT-BILLED HERON (Cochlearius cochlearius) – One dawn flyover out on Pilchecocha that we spotlighted, thanks to Mike's sharp eyes.
Threskiornithidae (Ibises and Spoonbills)
GREEN IBIS (Mesembrinibis cayennensis) [*]
BARE-FACED IBIS (Phimosus infuscatus) – This species has been expanding rapidly over the last few years in eastern Ecuador; before this it was unheard of... probably coming in from Colombia. This was my first time seeing them right at Coca, when we found a group of them out on a rocky island right from the main town, river promenade.
ROSEATE SPOONBILL (Platalea ajaja) – We had our best looks at these guys when we spotted a group of six birds out on a river island sandbar along the Napo.
Cathartidae (New World Vultures)
KING VULTURE (Sarcoramphus papa) – Nice scope views of an adult in flight from the canopy walkway towers!
BLACK VULTURE (Coragyps atratus)
TURKEY VULTURE (Cathartes aura) – Mostly out along the Napo River.
GREATER YELLOW-HEADED VULTURE (Cathartes melambrotus) – Larger and darker than the previous species, and more forest-based. We had some nice scope views of them a couple of times to soak in that yellow head.
Pandionidae (Osprey)
OSPREY (Pandion haliaetus) – One came flying in over Pilchecocha. [b]
Accipitridae (Hawks, Eagles, and Kites)
GRAY-HEADED KITE (Leptodon cayanensis) – A calling pair flew over the Kapok tower one morning for nice looks. On our last day as we motored up to Coca we caught quick looks at a young bird in flight.
SWALLOW-TAILED KITE (Elanoides forficatus) – Seen soaring about a few times.
CRESTED EAGLE (Morphnus guianensis) – Arguably the bird of the trip when Oscar spotted a perched, light morph bird for us soon after getting to the top of the canopy walkway towers. What a thrill to kind this rare eagle, and the scope studies were fantastic, small black mask and all... wow! Big eagles are hard to come by, and Sacha has been the place of late.
SLENDER-BILLED KITE (Helicolestes hamatus) – Seen best from the Kapok tower through the scope one afternoon.
This gorgeous male Amazonian Trogon was seen from the canopy walkway. Photo by participant Stan Lilley.
DOUBLE-TOOTHED KITE (Harpagus bidentatus) – Seen a few times, but best from the Kapok tower where we found a bird sitting on a nest. [N]
PLUMBEOUS KITE (Ictinia plumbea) – Perched birds seen well from the towers through the scope.
CRANE HAWK (Geranospiza caerulescens) – A long, skinny hawk that we scoped a couple of times from the towers.
SLATE-COLORED HAWK (Buteogallus schistaceus) – This one has a color scheme similar to the previous species, but is more intensely-colored, and is much chunkier. We had a few fine scope studies from the towers.
ROADSIDE HAWK (Rupornis magnirostris)
SHORT-TAILED HAWK (Buteo brachyurus) – One soaring, light morph bird from the towers.
Strigidae (Owls)
TAWNY-BELLIED SCREECH-OWL (Megascops watsonii) – Owling made easy, when Oscar located one on a day roost right at the lodge near the cabins... nice!
CRESTED OWL (Lophostrix cristata) – Oscar and Walter tracked down a pair for us on a day roost behind the lodge for spectacular scope views.
SPECTACLED OWL (Pulsatrix perspicillata) – Just would not come in! [*]
FERRUGINOUS PYGMY-OWL (Glaucidium brasilianum) [*]
BURROWING OWL (Athene cunicularia) – We spotted a couple of birds on a river island, where they seem to be increasingly common.
Trogonidae (Trogons)
BLACK-TAILED TROGON (Trogon melanurus) [*]
GREEN-BACKED TROGON (Trogon viridis) – The most common trogon of the region that we saw a few times.
AMAZONIAN TROGON (Trogon ramonianus) – We spotted our first male from the canopy walkway towers soon after arrival.
Participant Duane Morse got a nice shot of a Glittering-throated Emerald.
BLACK-THROATED TROGON (Trogon rufus) [*]
COLLARED TROGON (Trogon collaris) – We finally tracked this one down along the Anaconda stream on our last day, and even saw one get chased off by a Cinnamon Attila.
Momotidae (Motmots)
AMAZONIAN MOTMOT (Momotus momota) [*]
Alcedinidae (Kingfishers)
RINGED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle torquata) – This large kingfisher was seen well on most days.
AMERICAN PYGMY KINGFISHER (Chloroceryle aenea) – I think that after the multiple run-ins with this tiny kingfisher, we all finally got on to it for good views, at one point or another!
GREEN-AND-RUFOUS KINGFISHER (Chloroceryle inda) – After having this one zoom past us on many occasions, we finally pinned one down along the Orquidea stream.
Bucconidae (Puffbirds)
WHITE-NECKED PUFFBIRD (Notharchus hyperrhynchus) – Stunning views of this large puffbird from the Kapok tower on our first visit there.
PIED PUFFBIRD (Notharchus tectus) – Perched right on a suspension cable at the canopy walkway towers!
LANCEOLATED MONKLET (Micromonacha lanceolata) – Although probably a lot more common than we suspect, this guy is a tough one to find unless calling, since they spend much of their time perching quietly in the canopy. Lucky for us, this trip they were calling and active, so were easy to call in, and we had fine studies from the lower levels of the canopy walkway towers.
BLACK-FRONTED NUNBIRD (Monasa nigrifrons) – Seen well out along the Napo River.
WHITE-FRONTED NUNBIRD (Monasa morphoeus) – Nice scope views at a pair from the canopy walkway towers.
SWALLOW-WINGED PUFFBIRD (Chelidoptera tenebrosa) – A dark and chunky puffbird species that we saw out along the Napo a few times for good looks.
Galbulidae (Jacamars)
WHITE-EARED JACAMAR (Galbalcyrhynchus leucotis) – We saw a pair of this distinctive jacamar perched up in an overhead Cecropia tree along a side channel of the Napo River... our only ones of the trip. That long pinkish bill really stands out!
WHITE-CHINNED JACAMAR (Galbula tombacea) – Great views of the swamp forest jacamar on our first attempt along the Orquidea stream.
Crested Owls are always a favorite; we had a great view of this pair that was roosting behind the lodge. Photo by participant Rick Woodruff.
PURPLISH JACAMAR (Galbula chalcothorax) – We had our first views of this forest-based jacamar on the first afternoon birding stint behind the lodge when we called in a pair for scope views.
GREAT JACAMAR (Jacamerops aureus) – Seen right after the previous species when we called in a pair for scope studies!
Capitonidae (New World Barbets)
SCARLET-CROWNED BARBET (Capito aurovirens) – Nice looks at a perched male along a side channel of the Napo River.
GILDED BARBET (Capito auratus) – It took us up until the fifth day to really tag in with good looks at this common barbet species at the Kapok tower.
LEMON-THROATED BARBET (Eubucco richardsoni) [*]
Ramphastidae (Toucans)
LETTERED ARACARI (Pteroglossus inscriptus) – A small aracari species that we finally turned up along the Shipati stream across the Napo from Sacha for good looks... the one with the all yellow belly.
CHESTNUT-EARED ARACARI (Pteroglossus castanotis) – Fairly common out along the Napo River; the one with the red belly band.
MANY-BANDED ARACARI (Pteroglossus pluricinctus) – The common aracari of the Ecuadorian Amazon and seen especially well from the towers.
GOLDEN-COLLARED TOUCANET (Selenidera reinwardtii) [*]
WHITE-THROATED TOUCAN (CUVIER'S) (Ramphastos tucanus cuvieri) – Nice scope studies at this large toucan from the towers.
CHANNEL-BILLED TOUCAN (YELLOW-RIDGED) (Ramphastos vitellinus culminatus) [*]
Picidae (Woodpeckers)
YELLOW-TUFTED WOODPECKER (Melanerpes cruentatus) – A mostly black woodpecker with a red belly and funny looking yellow goggles! We had them for nice views numerous times, especially from the towers.
LITTLE WOODPECKER (Dryobates passerinus) – Nice looks at a female on a river island.
RED-STAINED WOODPECKER (Dryobates affinis) – We scoped a female from the canopy walkway towers.
CRIMSON-CRESTED WOODPECKER (Campephilus melanoleucos) – The large woodpecker of the trip, and we had great looks at a pair tending a nest hole out along the Napo River.
CREAM-COLORED WOODPECKER (Celeus flavus) – Oscar spotted a pair of this stunning woodpecker coming to roost along the Anaconda stream for almost eye-level views. These guys like to roost at lower levels on skinny, spiny palm trees for protection.
CRIMSON-MANTLED WOODPECKER (Colaptes rivolii) – About half the group snagged this one on the grounds of the San Jose before the flight to Coca.
SPOT-BREASTED WOODPECKER (Colaptes punctigula) – We drew in a cooperative male on a Napo river island for excellent scope studies.
Falconidae (Falcons and Caracaras)
LINED FOREST-FALCON (Micrastur gilvicollis) [*]
BLACK CARACARA (Daptrius ater) – The black caracara with the white rump and red face that we saw out along the Napo.
RED-THROATED CARACARA (Ibycter americanus) – First seen harassing our Crested Eagle, but then again better from the same towers as they flew by and perched briefly. The calls of this species are raucous and unforgettable!
YELLOW-HEADED CARACARA (Milvago chimachima) – A riparian species that we saw a few times out along the Napo River, and even flying over the Kapok Tower.
LAUGHING FALCON (Herpetotheres cachinnans) [*]
AMERICAN KESTREL (Falco sparverius) – Common around the grounds of the San Jose.
APLOMADO FALCON (Falco femoralis) – One came blasting by at the San Jose, which was a bit of a surprise! The mostly dark plumage and long tail aided in identification.
We had a good view of an unusual Green Oropendola from the Kapok Tower; they are not frequently seen north of the Napo River, but we were happy to get such a great look. Photo by participant Duane Morse.
BAT FALCON (Falco rufigularis) – Seen a couple of times from the towers.
Psittacidae (New World and African Parrots)
SCARLET-SHOULDERED PARROTLET (Touit huetii) – They didn't hit the clay lick, but we did have them come screaming by a couple of times, once in a larger group from the canopy walkway towers, and then again when three birds zoomed by during lunch next to Pilchecocha.
COBALT-WINGED PARAKEET (Brotogeris cyanoptera) – The common parakeet of the zone, and one we had some fabulous looks at, especially at the in-forest clay lick for one of the greatest experiences of the trip. How could any of us ever forget the anticipation as we all waited for the the parakeets to come trickling down to the clay and pools, and they did, in waves! After a spectacular show of them drinking and chattering, the explosion came as they blasted off and even flew through the pavilion we were viewing from... wow... amazing!
BLUE-HEADED PARROT (Pionus menstruus) – The clay lick along the Napo River was quiet this year for us, but there were most of the typical parrots up in the trees above, and we had decent looks at a few of them. We managed to find a small group of this handsome parrot in the Inga trees hanging over the lick... not too far from a Red-tailed Boa, lying in wait to snag a parrot for a meal.
YELLOW-CROWNED PARROT (Amazona ochrocephala) – One flew by out at at the Napo-edge parrot clay lick.
MEALY PARROT (Amazona farinosa) – The large Amazon parrot with the gray cast to its green plumage, that we saw well a few times from the towers.
ORANGE-WINGED PARROT (Amazona amazonica) – Seen mostly as fly-bys, but we did catch them once as they perched out along the edges of Pilchecocha.
BLACK-HEADED PARROT (Pionites melanocephalus) – Nice scope views of this handsome parrot as they fed about in a flowering Erythrina tree from the canopy walkway towers.
MAROON-TAILED PARAKEET (Pyrrhura melanura) – Seen shoulder-to-shoulder with the previous species, picking away at those Erythrina flowers.
DUSKY-HEADED PARAKEET (Aratinga weddellii) – The loud parakeet at the Napo-edge clay lick. They never hit the bank, but there were plenty in the trees just above.
RED-BELLIED MACAW (Orthopsittaca manilatus) – Seen daily in flight around the lodge.
SCARLET MACAW (Ara macao) – Oscar scoped a few for us at the in-forest clay lick as they perched in some overhead trees before they flew off.
CHESTNUT-FRONTED MACAW (Ara severus) – A couple of pairs seen flying over on our first day.
WHITE-EYED PARAKEET (Psittacara leucophthalmus) – Nice scope views at a perched group along the Napo River.
Oscar found this sleepy Ladder-tailed Nightjar for us as it roosted along the Napo. Photo by participant Stan Lilley.
Thamnophilidae (Typical Antbirds)
FASCIATED ANTSHRIKE (Cymbilaimus lineatus) – Nice looks at pair as they foraged with a small flock near the lodge one afternoon.
GREAT ANTSHRIKE (Taraba major) [*]
PLAIN-WINGED ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus schistaceus) [*]
MOUSE-COLORED ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus murinus) [*]
CASTELNAU'S ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus cryptoleucus) – We drew in a pair to some close-by shrubbery out on a river island; this large antshrike is always shy and jumpy.
DUSKY-THROATED ANTSHRIKE (Thamnomanes ardesiacus) – Fine studies of a pair during some afternoon trail birding behind the lodge.
CINEREOUS ANTSHRIKE (Thamnomanes caesius) – Usually a bird of the south bank of the Napo, but we scored a pair along the trails behind the lodge one morning. Very similar in appearance to the previous species, but their vocalizations are very different.
PLAIN-THROATED ANTWREN (Isleria hauxwelli) – Excellent studies of a male in the understory along the trails behind the lodge; the one with the bold wing pattern.
SPOT-WINGED ANTSHRIKE (Pygiptila stellaris) [*]
ORNATE ANTWREN (Epinecrophylla ornata) [*]
PYGMY ANTWREN (Myrmotherula brachyura) – Very nice views of a cooperative bird from the canopy walkway towers as it foraged below eye level!
WHITE-FLANKED ANTWREN (Myrmotherula axillaris) – Common with understory flocks.
GRAY ANTWREN (Myrmotherula menetriesii) – We called in a pair and enjoyed some nice views of them foraging about from one of the lower level platforms at the canopy walkway towers.
PERUVIAN WARBLING-ANTBIRD (Hypocnemis peruviana) – It took a few tries, but we finally nailed one near the lodge.
This vibrant Plum-throated Cotinga seems as curious about us as we were about him! Photo by participant Stan Lilley.
RIPARIAN ANTBIRD (Cercomacroides fuscicauda) – Split from the Blackish Antbird. This one crept through some dark holes for surprisingly good looks along the Shipati stream.
GRAY ANTBIRD (Cercomacra cinerascens) [*]
BLACK-FACED ANTBIRD (Myrmoborus myotherinus) – Nice views at a cooperative male.
BLACK-AND-WHITE ANTBIRD (Myrmochanes hemileucus) – A river island specialist, and clean-cut antbird. We coaxed them in for nice views as they called and sneaked about in the low shrubbery.
SILVERED ANTBIRD (Sclateria naevia) – Common in the black water forests around Sacha as they hop about at water's edge. We enjoyed nice views a few times.
PLUMBEOUS ANTBIRD (Myrmelastes hyperythrus) – A large and loud antbird of swampy forest that we saw well on our first full day along the Orquidea stream.
SPOT-WINGED ANTBIRD (Myrmelastes leucostigma) [*]
WHITE-SHOULDERED ANTBIRD (Akletos melanoceps) – A male came dancing in for us across the river at Anangu, singing all the while.
SOOTY ANTBIRD (Hafferia fortis) – Some of us had good looks at a pair near the lodge as they called from the understory.
WHITE-CHEEKED ANTBIRD (Gymnopithys leucaspis) [*]
LUNULATED ANTBIRD (Oneillornis lunulatus) – Stunning scope studies of a male along the Providencia trail that sat for as long as I've ever seen this one sit.
[SPOT-BACKED] ANTBIRD (NEW SPECIES) (Hylophylax [naevius] sp. nov.?) – Fairly common in the understory of swampy forests around the lodge. Note that this form will be split in the future from birds of more hilly, terra firme forests.
DOT-BACKED ANTBIRD (Hylophylax punctulatus) – A clean-cut little antbird of blackwater forests that we had fabulous studies of along the Orquidea stream.
COMMON SCALE-BACKED ANTBIRD (Willisornis poecilinotus) – A well-marked antbird of the understory that we enjoyed some excellent studies of along the trails behind the lodge.
Gray-breasted Martins were common around the Pilchecocha lake. Photo by participant Rick Woodruff.
Conopophagidae (Gnateaters)
CHESTNUT-BELTED GNATEATER (Conopophaga aurita) [*]
Rhinocryptidae (Tapaculos)
RUSTY-BELTED TAPACULO (Liosceles thoracicus) – We stumbled into a close bird as it scampered about on the forest floor along the trail into the parrot salt lick, and most folks got onto it before it slinked away into the brush.
Furnariidae (Ovenbirds and Woodcreepers)
SHORT-BILLED LEAFTOSSER (Sclerurus rufigularis) – We nailed two species of leaftosser in one morning along the trails behind the lodge, which I had not done in years... so a real thrill! This one came in so close that it was almost impossible to focus on!
BLACK-TAILED LEAFTOSSER (Sclerurus caudacutus) – It was nice to have had this one on a territory that I had not seen it on for years along the trails at Sacha.
PLAIN-BROWN WOODCREEPER (Dendrocincla fuliginosa) – A fairly markless woodcreeper that we saw a few times.
WEDGE-BILLED WOODCREEPER (Glyphorynchus spirurus) – Some got onto this tiny woodcreeper.
CINNAMON-THROATED WOODCREEPER (Dendrexetastes rufigula) [*]
LONG-BILLED WOODCREEPER (Nasica longirostris) [*]
BLACK-BANDED WOODCREEPER (Dendrocolaptes picumnus) – We finally managed to connect with this large woodcreeper out on a river island as it zipped about in riparian forest.
STRIPED WOODCREEPER (Xiphorhynchus obsoletus) – Quick looks along the Orquidea stream.
ELEGANT WOODCREEPER (Xiphorhynchus elegans) – A commonly heard woodcreeper, but difficult to see as it is so shy and stays in lower strata, jumping from one trunk to another before getting too high; we had fairly fleeting views along the trails behind Sacha in the context that I describe!
BUFF-THROATED WOODCREEPER (Xiphorhynchus guttatus) – A large woodcreeper that we finally tracked down at Sacha.
STRAIGHT-BILLED WOODCREEPER (Dendroplex picus) – We did finally manage to connect with this swamp forest species along the edges of Pilchecocha when we found one calling and foraging right next to the "Balsa".
DUIDA WOODCREEPER (Lepidocolaptes duidae) [*]
Gray-crowned Flycatcher was one of over 40 species of flycatchers that we saw. Photo by participant Duane Morse.
PLAIN XENOPS (Xenops minutus) – Good looks for some in the understory at Sacha.
CINNAMON-RUMPED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Philydor pyrrhodes) – Zipping by along the Orquidea stream... as they usually do!
WHITE-BELLIED SPINETAIL (Mazaria propinqua) – A strict river island specialist that we lured out for great views!
DARK-BREASTED SPINETAIL (Synallaxis albigularis) – We teased this riparian-edge species in after some work out on a river island where it finally crept in for some nice views.
AZARA'S SPINETAIL (Synallaxis azarae) – Stephen caught some views on the last day around the San Jose.
Tyrannidae (Tyrant Flycatchers)
WHITE-LORED TYRANNULET (Ornithion inerme) – Awesome views of this canopy tyrannulet from the canopy walkway towers, and even seen gathering nesting material.
SOUTHERN BEARDLESS-TYRANNULET (Camptostoma obsoletum) – We saw the dry forest form on our first day around the San Jose; Amazonian birds probably need to be classified as a different species.
MOUSE-COLORED TYRANNULET (Phaeomyias murina) – In the trees along the Coca promenade, as they usually are!
YELLOW-CROWNED TYRANNULET (Tyrannulus elatus) – Good looks at this distinctive canopy tyrannulet out along the Napo River.
GRAY ELAENIA (Myiopagis caniceps) – We caught a pair in the canopy with some flock activity across the river at Providencia.
YELLOW-CROWNED ELAENIA (Myiopagis flavivertex) [*]
LARGE ELAENIA (Elaenia spectabilis) – Quick scope views at this large elaenia -that nests in the Pantanal - out on a river island along the Napo. [a]
MOTTLE-BACKED ELAENIA (Elaenia gigas) [*]
RIVER TYRANNULET (Serpophaga hypoleuca) – A pair came zipping in out in the willow beds on a river island for nice views.
Participant Stan Lilley captured one of our group on the canopy walkway; this gives a really good idea of why we love the walkway so much! It puts us right at "bird's-eye level"!
OCHRE-BELLIED FLYCATCHER (Mionectes oleagineus) – Good looks at this one in the understory along the Providencia trail.
SLENDER-FOOTED TYRANNULET (Zimmerius gracilipes) – A confusing little tyrannulet of the forest canopy that we had close views of from the towers.
SHORT-TAILED PYGMY-TYRANT (Myiornis ecaudatus) [*]
DOUBLE-BANDED PYGMY-TYRANT (Lophotriccus vitiosus) [*]
SPOTTED TODY-FLYCATCHER (Todirostrum maculatum) – Excellent eye-level level scope studies of this handsome flycatcher out on a river island.
YELLOW-BROWED TODY-FLYCATCHER (Todirostrum chrysocrotaphum) – A spectacular little tody-flycatcher that we had wonderful views of from the canopy walkway towers.
OLIVACEOUS FLATBILL (Rhynchocyclus olivaceus) – We found a calling bird as it moved loosely with a dispersed mixed flock along the Providencia trail as it zipped about, foraging.
YELLOW-OLIVE FLYCATCHER (RIVERINE) (Tolmomyias sulphurescens insignis) [*]
YELLOW-MARGINED FLYCATCHER (Tolmomyias assimilis) – This and the following closely related species are very similar, other than their calls, and both occur together in the forest canopy. We had nice looks at them at close range from the towers.
GRAY-CROWNED FLYCATCHER (Tolmomyias poliocephalus)
YELLOW-BREASTED FLYCATCHER (Tolmomyias flaviventris) – Seen well out in the riparian woodlands out along the Napo River.
FUSCOUS FLYCATCHER (FUSCOUS) (Cnemotriccus fuscatus fuscatior) – Good looks at them foraging about out on a river island as it started to get hot!
VERMILION FLYCATCHER (Pyrocephalus rubinus) – This fancy flycatcher was seen well on the grounds of the San Jose, where they are numerous.
DRAB WATER TYRANT (Ochthornis littoralis) – Seen well along the edges of the Napo River, where they rarely get higher than a couple of meters above the water.
A nice portrait of a Straight-billed Hermit, by participant Rick Woodruff.
CATTLE TYRANT (Machetornis rixosa) – This one is usually a bird of cleared, open areas, so it was a surprise to find one up in the forest canopy up at the canopy walkway towers.
CINNAMON ATTILA (Attila cinnamomeus) – This was an exceptional trip for attilas, seeing all three possible species, and even in one day! The views of this all rufousy bird from the tower and along the Anaconda stream were memorable.
CITRON-BELLIED ATTILA (Attila citriniventris) – Awesome scope studies from the canopy walkway towers of this beautiful attila species. It is is interesting to note that this species seems to have invaded the upper Napo area in the last 10 years; before that, this species was unheard of in the area.
BRIGHT-RUMPED ATTILA (Attila spadiceus) – We snagged this one as well from the canopy walkway towers for scope studies as it flashed that yellow-rump.
WHITE-RUMPED SIRYSTES (Sirystes albocinereus) – We finally tracked this canopy forest species down at the Kapok tower as it called and perched right overhead!
GRAYISH MOURNER (Rhytipterna simplex) – We connected with this dull species along the Providencia trail.
DUSKY-CAPPED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus tuberculifer)
SWAINSON'S FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus swainsoni) – Seen out along the edges of Pilchecocha as they called and flitted about.
SHORT-CRESTED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus ferox) [*]
LESSER KISKADEE (Pitangus lictor) – Common along the edges of Pilchecocha where they are always found just above the water.
GREAT KISKADEE (Pitangus sulphuratus) – A well known bird to neotropical birders!
BOAT-BILLED FLYCATCHER (Megarynchus pitangua)
SOCIAL FLYCATCHER (Myiozetetes similis) – Common right around the lake at Sacha.
GRAY-CAPPED FLYCATCHER (Myiozetetes granadensis) – The flycatcher with the peculiar bifurcated crest.
DUSKY-CHESTED FLYCATCHER (Myiozetetes luteiventris) – A flycatcher of the forest canopy that we saw well a few times from the canopy towers.
STREAKED FLYCATCHER (Myiodynastes maculatus)
PIRATIC FLYCATCHER (Legatus leucophaius)
VARIEGATED FLYCATCHER (Empidonomus varius) [a]
CROWNED SLATY FLYCATCHER (Empidonomus aurantioatrocristatus) [a]
SULPHURY FLYCATCHER (Tyrannopsis sulphurea) [*]
TROPICAL KINGBIRD (Tyrannus melancholicus)
FORK-TAILED FLYCATCHER (Tyrannus savana) [a]
Cotingidae (Cotingas)
PURPLE-THROATED FRUITCROW (Querula purpurata) – Fine looks from the towers at eye level a few times; those males displaying their throat fascinators are always a thrill!
We had great views of both male and female Pink-throated Becards from the canopy towers. This male was very cooperative, allowing participant Stan Lilley to get a nice image.
AMAZONIAN UMBRELLABIRD (Cephalopterus ornatus) – Excellent views of this bizarre cotinga a few times, especially from the Kapok tower, where we enjoyed scope studies, white eye and all.
PLUM-THROATED COTINGA (Cotinga maynana) – Wonderful scope studies of males and females from the towers.
SPANGLED COTINGA (Cotinga cayana) – Electrifying as always!
SCREAMING PIHA (Lipaugus vociferans) – We had them best along the Providencia trail at a small lek.
BARE-NECKED FRUITCROW (Gymnoderus foetidus) – A peculiar cotinga, especially the male with those odd flaps on the face, and we saw them for scope views a few time from the towers.
Pipridae (Manakins)
DWARF TYRANT-MANAKIN (Tyranneutes stolzmanni) – This small and rather dull manakin species put in a visit at the Kapok tower to feed on ficus fruits.
BLUE-CROWNED MANAKIN (Lepidothrix coronata) – We caught a male along the Providencia trail that some folks got onto before it flitted away.
ORANGE-CROWNED MANAKIN (Heterocercus aurantiivertex) – Well, it took us long enough, but we finally connected with a female along the Orquidea stream for exceptional views on our last full day, despite having heard them on numerous occasions.
WIRE-TAILED MANAKIN (Pipra filicauda) – Stunning scope studies at a male along the trails behind the lodge as it perched in the understory... what an awesome bird!
GOLDEN-HEADED MANAKIN (Ceratopipra erythrocephala) – A bold black and yellow manakin, and always a real attention grabber! We found a calling male along the trails behind the lodge... wow!
Tityridae (Tityras and Allies)
BLACK-TAILED TITYRA (Tityra cayana) – Seen almost daily, but best from the canopy towers.
WHITE-BROWED PURPLETUFT (Iodopleura isabellae) – This fascinating, and beautiful, little canopy species was recently transfered from the cotinga family to this newly erected family. We had them well from the canopy towers a few times.
WHITE-WINGED BECARD (Pachyramphus polychopterus) – Quick, but good looks at a male as it darted about in the canopy near the Napo one morning.
PINK-THROATED BECARD (Pachyramphus minor) – Great looks at males and females from the towers, but the male, when seen well, is really spectacular!
Hoatzins, including this one sitting on a nest, were common along the lake-sides. Photo by participant Stan Lilley.
Vireonidae (Vireos, Shrike-Babblers, and Erpornis)
DUSKY-CAPPED GREENLET (Pachysylvia hypoxantha) [*]
RED-EYED VIREO (Vireo olivaceus) [b]
Corvidae (Crows, Jays, and Magpies)
VIOLACEOUS JAY (Cyanocorax violaceus) – A large and raucous jay of the Amazon that we saw well numerous times.
Hirundinidae (Swallows)
BLUE-AND-WHITE SWALLOW (Pygochelidon cyanoleuca) – We saw the highland resident form in around the San Jose, as well as the austral migrant race in the lowlands around Sacha.
WHITE-BANDED SWALLOW (Atticora fasciata) – The elegant swallow with the white chest band.
GRAY-BREASTED MARTIN (Progne chalybea) – Seen on most days right around Pilchecocha.
BROWN-CHESTED MARTIN (Progne tapera) – Seen right near the town of Coca as we started down the Napo River to Sacha.
WHITE-WINGED SWALLOW (Tachycineta albiventer) – The boldly patterned swallow that we saw daily along the edges of Pilchecocha.
Troglodytidae (Wrens)
SCALY-BREASTED WREN (Microcerculus marginatus) – We got one to pop right in for spectacular views across the river along the Providencia trail just before a downpour.
HOUSE WREN (Troglodytes aedon) [*]
THRUSH-LIKE WREN (Campylorhynchus turdinus) – A canopy wren whose pairs sing quite an explosive song! We had a cooperative pair across the river at Anangu.
CORAYA WREN (Pheugopedius coraya) – Jittery birds were seen a couple of times; man are they tough to keep still!
BUFF-BREASTED WREN (Cantorchilus leucotis) – Good looks at them along the Anaconda Stream.
WHITE-BREASTED WOOD-WREN (Henicorhina leucosticta) [*]
Polioptilidae (Gnatcatchers)
LONG-BILLED GNATWREN (Ramphocaenus melanurus) – Some got onto this tangle specialist along the trails near the lodge.
This Bright-rumped Attila was one of three attilas that we saw in one day. Photo by participant Duane Morse.
Donacobiidae (Donacobius)
BLACK-CAPPED DONACOBIUS (Donacobius atricapilla) – More subdued this trip, not popping up out of the marshes as much as usual, but still around. We could a family group for nice views along the edges of Pilchecocha.
Turdidae (Thrushes and Allies)
WHITE-NECKED THRUSH (Turdus albicollis) [*]
BLACK-BILLED THRUSH (Turdus ignobilis) – Common in riparian habiats.
GREAT THRUSH (Turdus fuscater) – Common in riparian habitats.
Mimidae (Mockingbirds and Thrashers)
TROPICAL MOCKINGBIRD (Mimus gilvus) [*]
Fringillidae (Finches, Euphonias, and Allies)
THICK-BILLED EUPHONIA (Euphonia laniirostris) – We had fine studies at all of the possible euphonia species this trip from the towers, which isn't always an easy feat.
GOLDEN-RUMPED EUPHONIA (Euphonia cyanocephala)
GOLDEN-BELLIED EUPHONIA (Euphonia chrysopasta)
WHITE-VENTED EUPHONIA (Euphonia minuta)
ORANGE-BELLIED EUPHONIA (Euphonia xanthogaster)
RUFOUS-BELLIED EUPHONIA (Euphonia rufiventris)
HOODED SISKIN (Spinus magellanicus) – In the central valley around the San Jose.
Passerellidae (New World Sparrows)
YELLOW-BROWED SPARROW (Ammodramus aurifrons) – Common out on early-growth river islands.
RUFOUS-COLLARED SPARROW (Zonotrichia capensis) – Abundant in the central valley!
Icteridae (Troupials and Allies)
RUSSET-BACKED OROPENDOLA (Psarocolius angustifrons) – The common oropendola of Amazonian Ecuador.
Monk Saki Monkeys are not common, so we were quite happy to see this one so well! Photo by participant Stan Lilley.
GREEN OROPENDOLA (Psarocolius viridis) – One surprised us at the Kapok tower for fine scope studies, where it is not typically found; this one usually shows up across the river in more terra firme habitats.
CRESTED OROPENDOLA (Psarocolius decumanus) – The one with the ivory bill and mostly black plumage.
SOLITARY BLACK CACIQUE (Cacicus solitarius) – We got one to pop up out of its thicket and into some overhead tress for pretty decent studies.
YELLOW-RUMPED CACIQUE (Cacicus cela) – All over the place, as usual. What really makes this one fun are its antics and mimicry; remember the one right overhead at the Kapok tower?
CASQUED CACIQUE (Cacicus oseryi) – Brief views from the Kapok tower as they headed to roost with a group of oropendolas.
EPAULET ORIOLE (MORICHE) (Icterus cayanensis chrysocephalus) – Several nice encounters from the Kapok tower.
SHINY COWBIRD (Molothrus bonariensis)
GIANT COWBIRD (Molothrus oryzivorus) – We saw this large cowbird a few times.
ORIOLE BLACKBIRD (Gymnomystax mexicanus) – A stunning blackbird of river islands that offered up some nice scope views.
Cardinalidae (Cardinals and Allies)
AMAZONIAN GROSBEAK (Cyanoloxia rothschildii) [*]
Thraupidae (Tanagers and Allies)
MAGPIE TANAGER (Cissopis leverianus) – A little scarce this trip, but we managed to find one out along the Napo River.
ORANGE-HEADED TANAGER (Thlypopsis sordida) – Quick views for some out on a river island before it sneaked away.
GRAY-HEADED TANAGER (Eucometis penicillata) – We got one to perch up overhead along the Anaconda stream during some flock activity.
FLAME-CRESTED TANAGER (Tachyphonus cristatus) – Close views as they fed at a fruiting ficus tree next to the Kapok tower. That crest is amazing!
FULVOUS-CRESTED TANAGER (Tachyphonus surinamus) – Not a common bird on this tour, but we spotted one with some canopy flock activity along the Providencia trail.
FULVOUS SHRIKE-TANAGER (Lanio fulvus) – Fine studies of a male near the lodge when it came bombing in and perched for us at close range.
SILVER-BEAKED TANAGER (Ramphocelus carbo) – Fairly common in edge habitats.
MASKED CRIMSON TANAGER (Ramphocelus nigrogularis) – We ran into a few groups of this beauty a few times as they fed about in the canopy.
BLUE-AND-YELLOW TANAGER (Pipraeidea bonariensis) – Seen on the first day of the tour around the San Jose; a bird of the drier central valley.
BLUE-GRAY TANAGER (Thraupis episcopus) – We saw the drab form in the central valley around the San Jose as well as the Amazonian form with the white shoulder bar at Sacha.
PALM TANAGER (Thraupis palmarum) – Seen everyday of the trip!
YELLOW-BELLIED TANAGER (Ixothraupis xanthogastra) – Mike and I had one from the canopy walkway towers before it got away.
MASKED TANAGER (Tangara nigrocincta) – Fairly common in the canopy and seen well with the tanager flocks.
TURQUOISE TANAGER (Tangara mexicana) – This one is really more purple and yellow! We had them well a few times from the towers.
PARADISE TANAGER (Tangara chilensis) – Always a thrill to see!
OPAL-RUMPED TANAGER (Tangara velia) – We this and the next species from both towers for some memorable views.
OPAL-CROWNED TANAGER (Tangara callophrys)
GREEN-AND-GOLD TANAGER (Tangara schrankii) – An ornate tanager that we had with the canopy flocks numerous times.
As a final reminder of the good fun we had, here is our group walking on an island in the Napo on one of our outings. Photo by participant Rick Woodruff.
BLACK-FACED DACNIS (Dacnis lineata) – The one with the turquoise belly and black mask that we saw well from the towers.
YELLOW-BELLIED DACNIS (Dacnis flaviventer) – A uniquely colored dacnis of the forest canopy.
BLUE DACNIS (Dacnis cayana) – We had a pair from the canopy walkway towers one morning.
SHORT-BILLED HONEYCREEPER (Cyanerpes nitidus) – Usually quite rare at Sacha, but there was a family group hanging around the Kapok towers that we saw really well a few times.
PURPLE HONEYCREEPER (Cyanerpes caeruleus) – Similar to the previous species, but with bright yellow legs and a longer bill.
GREEN HONEYCREEPER (Chlorophanes spiza) – Common from the canopy towers.
YELLOW-BACKED TANAGER (Hemithraupis flavicollis) – We caught a pair as they foraged with a canopy flock high overhead along the Providencia trail.
CINEREOUS CONEBILL (OCHRACEOUS) (Conirostrum cinereum fraseri) – Seen on both of our passes through the San Jose as they foraged in the gardens.
RUSTY FLOWERPIERCER (Diglossa sittoides decorata) – Nice views at males and females at the San Jose.
SAFFRON FINCH (SAFFRON) (Sicalis flaveola valida) – The yellow finch that was common in the gardens of the San Jose.
CHESTNUT-BELLIED SEEDEATER (Sporophila castaneiventris) – Nice scope views out on the river islands.
CHESTNUT-BELLIED SEED-FINCH (Sporophila angolensis) – Scope views of a singing male out on a river island.
CAQUETA SEEDEATER (Sporophila murallae) – The all black-and-white seedeater that we found out on a river island.
YELLOW-BELLIED SEEDEATER (Sporophila nigricollis) – One dull female on the first day at the San Jose.
YELLOW-SHOULDERED GROSBEAK (Parkerthraustes humeralis) [*]
BUFF-THROATED SALTATOR (Saltator maximus) – One as it fed with the tanager flocks from the Kapok tower.
GRAYISH SALTATOR (Saltator coerulescens)
MAMMALS
LONG-NOSED BAT (Rhynchonycteris naso) – Seen on the emergent sticks poking up out of the water along the edges of Pilchecocha.
BLACK-MANTLE TAMARIN (Saguinus nigricollis) – Right around the lodge on a few days as they fed at point-blank range!
GOLDEN-MANTLE TAMARIN (Saguinus tripartitus) – A smashing monkey species with a small range that is found only on the south side of the Napo River. We surprised a family group of them for nice views along the Shipati stream.
COMMON SQUIRREL MONKEY (Saimiri sciureus) – Seen daily around the lodge as they went about their comical business!
DUSKY TITI MONKEY (Callicebus moloch) – We had a pair with young for scope studies from the canopy walkway towers; the calls of this species are especially distinctive, sounding like a bunch of wild men laughing.
RED HOWLER MONKEY (Alouatta seniculus) – This large red monkey was seen and heard many times around the lodge at close range.
MONK SAKI MONKEY (Pithecia monachus) – A hard to find monkey of the south bank of the Napo, so were were lucky to have had such good looks along the Providencia trail.
WHITE-FRONTED CAPUCHIN (Cebus albifrons) – Seen a couple of times as they foraged about with the troops of Squirrel Monkeys; this one is larger and has a prehensile tail.
BROWN-THROATED THREE-TOED SLOTH (Bradypus variegatus) – We had our best views when we scoped one on our last afternoon from the Kapok tower.
GIANT ANTEATER (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) – Seen by some through the understory brush along the anaconda stream as it crashed about. This is a rarely seen animal in Ecuador.
CAPYBARA (Hydrochaeris hydrochaeris) – Tracks out on the river islands.
BLACK AGOUTI (Dasyprocta fuliginosa) – Common right around the cabins, and seen daily as they foraged about.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
We ran into some other interesting critters as well that aren't on checklist, like that Black Caiman out at the balsa dock, a lazy Caiman Lizard there as well, all of those Yellow-spotted Turtles, and a Red-tailed Boa out at the parrot clay lick along the Napo River as it waited for any parrot to get too close!
Totals for the tour: 317 bird taxa and 12 mammal taxa