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The endangered Three-toed Jacamar has a very limited range in the Atlantic Forest. Anyone counting toes? Three or six? (Photo by guide John Rowlett)
Surely getting long, bang-up looks at a vocalizing Gray-winged Cotinga was ONE of the highlights of our superb tour of the Atlantic Forest endemics in the state of Rio de Janeiro, but seeing all the Drymophila antbirds so splendidly, getting wonderful views of Bare-throated Bellbird, Hooded Berryeater, and that ethereal Black-and-gold Cotinga, long leisurely views of a circling Mantled Hawk, the unsurpassable Chestnut-headed Tanager, a furtive pair of Itatiaia Spinetails, a plump, immobile Variegated Antpitta singing for us until we walked away, and a Seriema performance that just couldn't be beat--only some 25 feet away--all these outweighed missing White-bearded Antshrike, Crescent-chested Puffbird (usually a gimme), and Swallow-tailed Cotinga (due to wind). And just birding the grounds was so pleasant, as we all really appreciated repeated photo-looks at the constant, colorful avian activity surrounding the hummingbird feeders and banana trays at Serra dos Tucanos Lodge, a lovely base for our eight full days of birding. The Tucanos staff and Cirilo made our stay notably free of concern, as they kept all the feeders full (the birds' and our own) and your guide oriented in the right direction.
Ours was a skilled group, easy to pick up on birds, awfully good at spotting them, appreciative of their limited distribution to the Sooretama, and entertaining (as well as informative) at our convivial meals, where the caipirinhas, the evening variety, and the desserts sent us off to bed with visions of another great day to follow. I hope our paths will cross on another tour before long--be it Ecuador, Scotland, or Australia.
--Pepper
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)
An evening before "The Finger of God," Orgaos National Park. (Photo by guide John Rowlett)
BROWN TINAMOU (Crypturellus obsoletus) – Heard in several areas; those forest tinamous are tough to see. [*]
Anatidae (Ducks, Geese, and Waterfowl)
WHITE-FACED WHISTLING-DUCK (Dendrocygna viduata) – Handsome ducks—at REGUA.
BRAZILIAN TEAL (Amazonetta brasiliensis) – Flashy in flight.
Cracidae (Guans, Chachalacas, and Curassows)
DUSKY-LEGGED GUAN (Penelope obscura)
Odontophoridae (New World Quail)
SPOT-WINGED WOOD-QUAIL (Odontophorus capueira) – Heard along the Cedae Trail—at too great a distance to attract by playback. [*]
Podicipedidae (Grebes)
LEAST GREBE (Tachybaptus dominicus)
Fregatidae (Frigatebirds)
MAGNIFICENT FRIGATEBIRD (Fregata magnificens)
Phalacrocoracidae (Cormorants and Shags)
NEOTROPIC CORMORANT (Phalacrocorax brasilianus)
Ardeidae (Herons, Egrets, and Bitterns)
This male Brazilian Ruby is showing its fawn crissum and alulas—as well as its fancy gorget and forehead. A bird's alula is homologous to a primate's thumb. (Photo by guide John Rowlett)
COCOI HERON (Ardea cocoi) – One at REGUA.
GREAT EGRET (Ardea alba)
SNOWY EGRET (Egretta thula)
CATTLE EGRET (Bubulcus ibis)
STRIATED HERON (Butorides striata)
WHISTLING HERON (Syrigma sibilatrix) – A lovely heron; seen nicely.
CAPPED HERON (Pilherodius pileatus) – Another lovely heron; several at REGUA.
BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON (Nycticorax nycticorax) – One immature at REGUA.
Cathartidae (New World Vultures)
BLACK VULTURE (Coragyps atratus) – Daily.
TURKEY VULTURE (Cathartes aura) – Almost daily.
LESSER YELLOW-HEADED VULTURE (Cathartes burrovianus) – One seen well on two days. A savannah vulture.
Accipitridae (Hawks, Eagles, and Kites)
PLUMBEOUS KITE (Ictinia plumbea)
SHARP-SHINNED HAWK (RUFOUS-THIGHED) (Accipiter striatus erythronemius) – One on each of three days; some authorities split this species from Sharp-shinned.
MANTLED HAWK (Leucopternis polionotus) – Terrific views of this scarce raptor as it soared in circles over the Cedae Trail on a lovely morning; thanks to Amy's sharp eye. [E]
SAVANNA HAWK (Buteogallus meridionalis) – Seen by several, including Keith, Bill, and Gaye.
ROADSIDE HAWK (Buteo magnirostris)
SHORT-TAILED HAWK (Buteo brachyurus) – A dark morph in flight over the Portao Azul Trail that Keith got us on.
WHITE-TAILED HAWK (Buteo albicaudatus) – Several seen nicely, including a fine dark morph; most numerous near Duas Barras and Sumidouro.
BLACK-AND-WHITE HAWK-EAGLE (Spizaetus melanoleucus) – A pair aloft over the upper parking lot at Orgaos NP.
Falconidae (Falcons and Caracaras)
BARRED FOREST-FALCON (Micrastur ruficollis) – One seen responding nicely to playback along the Theodoro Trail.
SOUTHERN CARACARA (Caracara plancus) – The big caracara of this region.
YELLOW-HEADED CARACARA (Milvago chimachima) – Alternatively, the small caracara of the region.
AMERICAN KESTREL (Falco sparverius)
APLOMADO FALCON (Falco femoralis) – Nice scope views of a distant bird perched atop an isolated tree near Duas Barras where we had lunch; spotted by sharp-eyed Amy.
Cariamidae (Seriemas)
Enjoy participant Keith Kwan's video of the pair of Red-legged Seriemas we watched at point-blank range...what fantastic birds! The pair starts duetting about two minutes into the video...
Rallidae (Rails, Gallinules, and Coots)
RUFOUS-SIDED CRAKE (Laterallus melanophaius) [*]
SLATY-BREASTED WOOD-RAIL (Aramides saracura) – The resident pair at the lodge presented us with many opportunities to make their acquaintance. [E]
ASH-THROATED CRAKE (Porzana albicollis) [*]
BLACKISH RAIL (Pardirallus nigricans) – Seen below us in the reeds en route to Duas Barras.
PURPLE GALLINULE (Porphyrio martinica) – Fairly common at REGUA.
COMMON GALLINULE (Gallinula galeata) – Also common at REGUA.
Charadriidae (Plovers and Lapwings)
SOUTHERN LAPWING (Vanellus chilensis) – Not uncommon in the countryside.
Jacanidae (Jacanas)
WATTLED JACANA (Jacana jacana) – Several at REGUA.
Laridae (Gulls, Terns, and Skimmers)
KELP GULL (Larus dominicanus) – In Rio on our return to the airport.
SOUTH AMERICAN TERN (Sterna hirundinacea) – One seen diving into the water on our return to the airport in Rio.
Columbidae (Pigeons and Doves)
ROCK PIGEON (Columba livia) [I]
PICAZURO PIGEON (Patagioenas picazuro) – A big pigeon!
PLUMBEOUS PIGEON (Patagioenas plumbea) – We had surprisingly good looks at this forest pigeon atop a tree in open habitat at REGUA; probably with a drink on its mind.
RUDDY GROUND-DOVE (Columbina talpacoti)
WHITE-TIPPED DOVE (Leptotila verreauxi)
GRAY-FRONTED DOVE (Leptotila rufaxilla) – Mostly heard, but one seen at Portao Azul.
Psittacidae (Parrots)
MAROON-BELLIED PARAKEET (Pyrrhura frontalis frontalis) – Good studies at the lodge's bananas. [E]
WHITE-EYED PARAKEET (Aratinga leucophthalma) – Seen in flight near Duas Barras.
BLUE-WINGED MACAW (Primolius maracana) – The largest group of macaws I've seen on any trip to the Duas Barras-Sumidouro area; I put the group at 36. It's not unusual to miss this species altogether!
BLUE-WINGED PARROTLET (Forpus xanthopterygius) – Seen from the lodge grounds.
PLAIN PARAKEET (Brotogeris tirica) – A regular visitor to the lodge's banana feeders. [E]
SCALY-HEADED PARROT (Pionus maximiliani) – Some good scope views; the resident Pionus of the area.
Cuculidae (Cuckoos)
SQUIRREL CUCKOO (Piaya cayana) – Quite a few seen.
GUIRA CUCKOO (Guira guira) – These cuckoos are quite comical in appearance and behavior.
STRIPED CUCKOO (Tapera naevia) [*]
GREATER ANI (Crotophaga major) – A group seen from the hide at REGUA.
SMOOTH-BILLED ANI (Crotophaga ani)
Strigidae (Owls)
TROPICAL SCREECH-OWL (Megascops choliba) – Nice looks at a roosting bird on the grounds at REGUA.
BURROWING OWL (Athene cunicularia) – Seen at REGUA.
Apodidae (Swifts)
WHITE-COLLARED SWIFT (Streptoprocne zonaris) – Seen most days.
GRAY-RUMPED SWIFT (Chaetura cinereiventris) – Seen on several occasions from the lodge, including a bird that took up residence, if only for a couple of days, outside Cynthia and Lorel's room!
Trochilidae (Hummingbirds)
BLACK JACOBIN (Florisuga fusca) – Common—and striking—at the lodge feeders. [E]
SAW-BILLED HERMIT (Ramphodon naevius) – A fine-looking hermit! Seen repeatedly at lodge feeders. [E]
RUFOUS-BREASTED HERMIT (Glaucis hirsutus) – One enjoyed by all as it perched above the track at REGUA.
REDDISH HERMIT (Phaethornis ruber) – Several seen, one behind the lodge.
SCALE-THROATED HERMIT (Phaethornis eurynome) – Keith got us on our first at Portao Azul; then we had several others. [E]
BRAZILIAN RUBY (Clytolaema rubricauda) – Great views of this beauty—both males and females—at the lodge feeders. [E]
GLITTERING-BELLIED EMERALD (Chlorostilbon aureoventris) – Seen en route to and near Duas Barras.
PLOVERCREST (Stephanoxis lalandi lalandi) – Great studies of this fancy hummer on the slope of Caledonia. [E]
SWALLOW-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD (Eupetomena macroura) – Seen well; we also had a female on the nest.
VIOLET-CAPPED WOODNYMPH (Thalurania glaucopis) – A beautiful endemic woodnymph. [E]
SOMBRE HUMMINGBIRD (Aphantochroa cirrochloris) – Another endemic; this stocky hummer is quite a bully at the feeders. [E]
WHITE-THROATED HUMMINGBIRD (Leucochloris albicollis) – Seen best along the Theodoro Trail.
VERSICOLORED EMERALD (Amazilia versicolor) – A regular at the lodge feeders. Lovely colors when the light strikes a male properly.
SAPPHIRE-SPANGLED EMERALD (Amazilia lactea) – Seen outside Sumidouro at the Jacamar spot.
Trogonidae (Trogons)
SURUCUA TROGON (Trogon surrucura) – Heard frequently; seen best through the scope at Portao Azul. [E]
BLACK-THROATED TROGON (Trogon rufus chrysochloros) [*]
Momotidae (Motmots)
RUFOUS-CAPPED MOTMOT (Baryphthengus ruficapillus) – Seen well through the scope in the REGUA forest after much effort. A thrilling vocalization. [E]
Alcedinidae (Kingfishers)
RINGED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle torquata)
Bucconidae (Puffbirds)
WHITE-EARED PUFFBIRD (Nystalus chacuru) – Seen extremely well en route to Duas Barras (and elsewhere that day).
Galbulidae (Jacamars)
A divine stretch before taking off almost puts the monotypic Jacamaralcyon (the Three-toed Jacamar) to sleep. Anyone counting primaries? (Photo by guide John Rowlett)
RUFOUS-TAILED JACAMAR (SPOT-TAILED) (Galbula ruficauda rufoviridis) – Seen in the forest at REGUA.
Ramphastidae (Toucans)
SPOT-BILLED TOUCANET (Selenidera maculirostris) – Two males during our visit; the first one spotted by Bill. This toucan is a humdinger. [E]
CHANNEL-BILLED TOUCAN (Ramphastos vitellinus ariel) – This taxon was seen from the lodge grounds, as well as elsewhere.
Picidae (Woodpeckers)
WHITE-BARRED PICULET (Picumnus cirratus) – Seen well on numerous occasions, but our best encounter came at REGUA where we saw a male work the small twigs and branches a foot from the ground and only a few feet away! [E]
WHITE WOODPECKER (Melanerpes candidus) – A distant pair seen through the scope en route to Duas Barras.
YELLOW-EARED WOODPECKER (Veniliornis maculifrons) [E*]
YELLOW-THROATED WOODPECKER (Piculus flavigula erythropis) – Nice looks at a male in the forest at REGUA. This taxon is peculiar in that it's a "red-throated," "yellow-throated" woodpecker.
WHITE-BROWED WOODPECKER (Piculus aurulentus) – Two beauties along the Portao Azul track. [E]
CAMPO FLICKER (Colaptes campestris campestris) – An open-country flicker.
BLOND-CRESTED WOODPECKER (Celeus flavescens) – A male at the upper lodge feeder; and, later, a female; thanks to Gaye.
Furnariidae (Ovenbirds and Woodcreepers)
TAWNY-THROATED LEAFTOSSER (Sclerurus mexicanus bahiae) [E*]
WING-BANDED HORNERO (Furnarius figulus) – Seen best in response to playback at REGUA. [E]
RUFOUS HORNERO (Furnarius rufus) – Common in dry, open country.
RUFOUS-CAPPED SPINETAIL (Synallaxis ruficapilla) – Seen along the Theodoro Trail. [E]
SPIX'S SPINETAIL (Synallaxis spixi) – A pair seen sneaking around along the track at Portao Azul.
PALLID SPINETAIL (Cranioleuca pallida) – A pair seen at Pico da Caledonia. [E]
YELLOW-CHINNED SPINETAIL (Certhiaxis cinnamomeus) – Seen well at REGUA and near Duas Barras.
ITATIAIA SPINETAIL (Asthenes moreirae) – A pair seen very well as they foraged in the bunch grass at Pico da Caledonia. A very local endemic to the state of Rio de Janeiro. [E]
RUFOUS-FRONTED THORNBIRD (Phacellodomus rufifrons) – Quite a few, including many ponderous stick nests.
ORANGE-EYED THORNBIRD (Phacellodomus erythrophthalmus) [E*]
WHITE-BROWED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Anabacerthia amaurotis) – Seen well along the Bamboo and the Theodoro trails. [E]
BUFF-BROWED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Syndactyla rufosuperciliata) – Also seen along the Bamboo and Theodoro trails.
OCHRE-BREASTED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Philydor lichtensteini) – Heard along the Cedae Trail, but we couldn't get it to show. [E*]
BUFF-FRONTED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Philydor rufum) – The commonest foliage-gleaner of the trip.
WHITE-COLLARED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Anabazenops fuscus) – Two seen very well along the Portao Azul track. [E]
PALE-BROWED TREEHUNTER (Cichlocolaptes leucophrus leucophrus) – A responsive bird seen extremely well at the lower parking lot of Orgaos NP. [E]
WHITE-EYED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Automolus leucophthalmus) – This pretty foliage-gleaner was seen nicely along the trail above the lodge our first afternoon. [E]
SHARP-TAILED STREAMCREEPER (Lochmias nematura nematura) – Seen awfully well at the bridge over the Pedra Branca on the lodge grounds.
SHARP-BILLED TREEHUNTER (Heliobletus contaminatus) – Seen well on the slopes of Caledonia where we had the Black-and-gold Cotinga. [E]
PLAIN XENOPS (Xenops minutus) – One seen at REGUA.
STREAKED XENOPS (Xenops rutilans) – Seen along several of the trails.
PLAIN-BROWN WOODCREEPER (PLAIN-WINGED) (Dendrocincla fuliginosa turdina) – Well seen on two occasions; this taxon will be split from Plain-brown, so put it in escrow. [E]
OLIVACEOUS WOODCREEPER (OLIVACEOUS) (Sittasomus griseicapillus sylviellus) – Another taxon that will be split. This bird has no gray on it whatsoever. [E]
WHITE-THROATED WOODCREEPER (Xiphocolaptes albicollis) – Wonderful looks at a responsive bird on the lodge grounds; this crepuscular singer was heard on several occasions. [E]
Long regarded as a separate species (Galbula rufoviridis), this taxon is virtually endemic to Brazil south of the Amazon and has been called Rufous-and-green Jacamar and Spot-tailed Jacamar. It is currently lumped with Rufous-tailed Jacamar as G. ruficauda rufoviridis. Jacamars are among the most accommodating subjects for digiscoping interlopers. (Photo by guide John Rowlett)
LESSER WOODCREEPER (LESSER) (Xiphorhynchus fuscus fuscus) – Seen along the Cedae Trail. [E]
SCALED WOODCREEPER (SCALED) (Lepidocolaptes squamatus squamatus) – A handsome pair seen well at the start of the Portao Azul track. [E]
BLACK-BILLED SCYTHEBILL (Campylorhamphus falcularius) – A striking, endemic scythebill seen along the Bamboo Trail. What a bill! [E]
Thamnophilidae (Typical Antbirds)
SPOT-BACKED ANTSHRIKE (Hypoedaleus guttatus) – A nice, responsive bird along the Cedae Trail—at the eleventh hour! [E]
GIANT ANTSHRIKE (Batara cinerea) – What a horse of a bird! A responsive male seen well from the boardwalk at Orgaos NP.
LARGE-TAILED ANTSHRIKE (Mackenziaena leachii) – A good-looking male, a real "starry, starry night" of a bird, seen up close on the Caledonia slope; earlier, a singing male had surprised us at the beginning of the Bamboo Trail, where Cirilo and I have never seen (or heard) it before. After much effort by all, Keith finally got us on that surprise. [E]
TUFTED ANTSHRIKE (Mackenziaena severa) – We were all disappointed not to see any of the several birds we heard; they simply weren't responding to playback by showing themselves. [E*]
RUFOUS-CAPPED ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus ruficapillus ruficapillus) – A smart-looking antshrike seen nicely on the upper slope of Caledonia.
CHESTNUT-BACKED ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus palliatus) – A handsome antshrike, seen best at REGUA.
SOORETAMA SLATY-ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus ambiguus) – A pair seen very well in the forest at REGUA. Its name, Sooretama, means "lowland Atlantic Forest." [E]
VARIABLE ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus caerulescens caerulescens) – Seen best along the Theodoro Trail our last morning.
SPOT-BREASTED ANTVIREO (Dysithamnus stictothorax) – A mixed-flock leader; seen repeatedly along the Cedae Trail. [E]
PLAIN ANTVIREO (Dysithamnus mentalis) – A pair seen well our first afternoon on the trail above the lodge.
RUFOUS-BACKED ANTVIREO (Dysithamnus xanthopterus) – The handsomest of the antvireos; seen well on the Caledonia slope. [E]
STAR-THROATED ANTWREN (Myrmotherula gularis) – Most frequently encountered along the Cedae Trail. [E]
WHITE-FLANKED ANTWREN (SILVERY-FLANKED) (Myrmotherula axillaris luctuosa) – Seen very well in the mixed flock at REGUA. This taxon will be split and called Silvery-flanked. [E]
UNICOLORED ANTWREN (Myrmotherula unicolor) – A pair seen surprisingly well in the mixed flock at REGUA; this is one of the residents of the scarce lowland forest left in the "Sooretama." [E]
SERRA ANTWREN (Formicivora serrana interposita) – Nice studies, finally, of this very black endemic; this taxon may be split in the future. [E]
FERRUGINOUS ANTBIRD (Drymophila ferruginea) – One of the six endemic Drymophila found in the Atlantic Forest. We saw this beauty along the Theodoro Trail our last morning. [E]
BERTONI'S ANTBIRD (Drymophila rubricollis) – Another beauty, seen along the Bamboo Trail and the Theodoro Trail. [E]
RUFOUS-TAILED ANTBIRD (Drymophila genei) – The high-elevation Drymophila seen well on the Caledonia slopes. [E]
OCHRE-RUMPED ANTBIRD (Drymophila ochropyga) – Seen well both along the Bamboo and Theodoro trails. [E]
DUSKY-TAILED ANTBIRD (Drymophila malura) – A pair seen nicely as the birds sneaked around in the brush just off the Portao Azul Trail. [E]
SCALED ANTBIRD (Drymophila squamata) – Seen best in the forest at REGUA. A great little bird! [E]
STREAK-CAPPED ANTWREN (Terenura maculata) – The only Terenura endemic to the Atlantic Forest. Seen repeatedly along the Cedae Trail. [E]
WHITE-SHOULDERED FIRE-EYE (Pyriglena leucoptera) – A responsive pair seen near the beginning of the Portao Azul Trail. [E]
WHITE-BIBBED ANTBIRD (Myrmeciza loricata) – Heard only; darn—one of the liabilities of having to do the Orgaos boardwalk on a Sunday. [E*]
Formicariidae (Antthrushes)
SUCH'S ANTTHRUSH (Chamaeza meruloides) – We couldn't get close enough. [E*]
RUFOUS-TAILED ANTTHRUSH (Chamaeza ruficauda) – Seen along the Orgaos boardwalk—at least by most: Keith, Amy, Bill, Lorel, and Dorothy, and perhaps by others. [E]
Grallariidae (Antpittas)
VARIEGATED ANTPITTA (Grallaria varia) – WOW. That was one heck of a look at this furtive antpitta! Enjoyed by all.
Conopophagidae (Gnateaters)
RUFOUS GNATEATER (Conopophaga lineata) – One seen well, and very close, along the Portao Azul track. [E]
BLACK-CHEEKED GNATEATER (Conopophaga melanops) – We saw two striking males on the trail above the lodge our first afternoon. Heard often along the Cedae Trail. [E]
Rhinocryptidae (Tapaculos)
SPOTTED BAMBOOWREN (Psilorhamphus guttatus) – Heard along the—well, the Bamboo Trail. [E*]
SLATY BRISTLEFRONT (Merulaxis ater) – After hearing a couple along the Bamboo Trail, we finally got one along the Theodoro Trail our last morning. [E]
SERRA DO MAR TAPACULO (Scytalopus notorius) – Seen from the stairs at Pico da Caledonia; it just about untied Amy's shoelaces before the rest of us saw it. [E]
Tyrannidae (Tyrant Flycatchers)
SOUTHERN BEARDLESS-TYRANNULET (Camptostoma obsoletum)
YELLOW TYRANNULET (Capsiempis flaveola) [*]
YELLOW-BELLIED ELAENIA (Elaenia flavogaster)
WHITE-CRESTED TYRANNULET (Serpophaga subcristata) – First at Portao Azul, then a pair at Caledonia.
GRAY-HOODED FLYCATCHER (Mionectes rufiventris) – Several, the best at the upper parking lot in Orgaos NP. [E]
SEPIA-CAPPED FLYCATCHER (Leptopogon amaurocephalus) – Not uncommon. [N]
MOTTLE-CHEEKED TYRANNULET (Phylloscartes ventralis) – The first along the Bamboo Trail (carrying nesting material); then several at Caledonia. [N]
OUSTALET'S TYRANNULET (Phylloscartes oustaleti) – Wonderful views (along the Cedae Trail) of this well-marked, tail-shaker, one of my favorite Atlantic Forest endemics. [E]
SERRA DO MAR TYRANNULET (Phylloscartes difficilis) – Heard on the slopes of Pico da Caledonia. [E*]
PLANALTO TYRANNULET (Phyllomyias fasciatus) – Seen best along the Portao Azul track.
GRAY-CAPPED TYRANNULET (Phyllomyias griseocapilla) – Nice looks at this endemic on the lodge grounds. [E]
SOUTHERN ANTPIPIT (Corythopis delalandi) – One seen nicely in the forest at REGUA.
EARED PYGMY-TYRANT (Myiornis auricularis) – Several seen, our first along the Cedae Trail. [E]
DRAB-BREASTED PYGMY-TYRANT (Hemitriccus diops) – Bill and Keith got a look at a difficult individual on the Portao Trail; then everyone had good views along the Bamboo Trail. [E]
EYE-RINGED TODY-TYRANT (Hemitriccus orbitatus) – Seen well on the trail above the lodge our first afternoon. [E]
HANGNEST TODY-TYRANT (Hemitriccus nidipendulus) – Seen en route to Duas Barras where we had the Serra Antwren. [E]
OCHRE-FACED TODY-FLYCATCHER (Poecilotriccus plumbeiceps) – What a look we had at this little Tyrannid along the Portao Azul track!
GRAY-HEADED TODY-FLYCATCHER (Todirostrum poliocephalum) – Swell views of this mite, first on the lodge grounds; also known as Yellow-lored Tody-Flycatcher. [E]
YELLOW-OLIVE FLYCATCHER (SOORETAMA) (Tolmomyias sulphurescens sulphurescens) – This Tolmomyias will be split; this, the nominate taxon is endemic to the Atlantic Forest. [E]
WHITE-THROATED SPADEBILL (Platyrinchus mystaceus) – Our best look was at a bird along the trail behind the lodge.
CLIFF FLYCATCHER (Hirundinea ferruginea bellicosa) – Seen in the Duas Barras area.
WHISKERED FLYCATCHER (YELLOW-RUMPED) (Myiobius barbatus mastacalis) – Several seen. [E]
BRAN-COLORED FLYCATCHER (Myiophobus fasciatus) – Seen in the open area along the Portao Azul track.
EULER'S FLYCATCHER (EULER'S) (Lathrotriccus euleri euleri) – Several, our first along the Portao Azul track.
BLUE-BILLED BLACK-TYRANT (Knipolegus cyanirostris) – Seen on the slopes of Caledonia.
CRESTED BLACK-TYRANT (Knipolegus lophotes) – Seen best at the restaurant where we ate our picnic, near Duas Barras.
VELVETY BLACK-TYRANT (Knipolegus nigerrimus) – Seen very well from the steps up to Pico da Caledonia. [E]
YELLOW-BROWED TYRANT (Satrapa icterophrys) – Seen at our first stop en route to Duas Barras. A pretty flycatcher. [a]
WHITE-RUMPED MONJITA (Xolmis velatus) – Seen from the spot where we had the Aplomado Falcon, near Duas Barras. And as distant as the Aplomado!
STREAMER-TAILED TYRANT (Gubernetes yetapa) – A remarkable performance by this big flycatcher en route to Duas Barras.
SHEAR-TAILED GRAY TYRANT (Muscipipra vetula) – A pair seen on the wires, Pico da Caledonia. [E]
MASKED WATER-TYRANT (Fluvicola nengeta) – Just about daily, including the lodge grounds.
WHITE-HEADED MARSH TYRANT (Arundinicola leucocephala) – Several seen at the REGUA wetland.
LONG-TAILED TYRANT (Colonia colonus) – Several seen.
CATTLE TYRANT (Machetornis rixosa) – Several seen in the Duas Barras-Sumidouro area.
GRAY-HOODED ATTILA (Attila rufus) – Seen well at the lodge; heard daily. [E]
SHORT-CRESTED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus ferox) – First at REGUA, then in near Sumidouro.
LESSER KISKADEE (Pitangus lictor) – Heard at the REGUA wetland. [*]
GREAT KISKADEE (Pitangus sulphuratus) – Daily. [N]
BOAT-BILLED FLYCATCHER (Megarynchus pitangua) [*]
SOCIAL FLYCATCHER (Myiozetetes similis) – Daily.
STREAKED FLYCATCHER (Myiodynastes maculatus) – Not uncommon.
TROPICAL KINGBIRD (Tyrannus melancholicus)
FORK-TAILED FLYCATCHER (Tyrannus savana) – Seen at REGUA and in the Duas Barras area. [a]
Oxyruncidae (Sharpbill)
SHARPBILL (Oxyruncus cristatus) – Several were heard delivering their "bombs away" vocalization; our excellent sightings came along the Bamboo and Theodoro trails. Recently this species was elevated to a monotypic family.
Cotingidae (Cotingas)
HOODED BERRYEATER (Carpornis cucullata) – What wonderful views of this big, handsome Cotingid along the Bamboo Trail. [E]
BLACK-AND-GOLD COTINGA (Tijuca atra) – Fabulous views of a singing bird on the slopes of Caledonia. [E]
GRAY-WINGED COTINGA (Tijuca condita) – Studying at leisure this VULNERABLE Cotingid, described to science as late as 1980, was a highlight of the trip! When David Snow was studying Cotingas for a family monograph, he noticed that a specimen of this bird had been misidentified as a female Black-and-gold. He described it as a Tijuca, but it is likely more closely related to Lipaugus (Pihas) based on morphology, feather proteins, and vocalizations. This species, endemic to a small range within the state of Rio de Janeiro, was the rarest bird we saw on the tour. [E]
BARE-THROATED BELLBIRD (Procnias nudicollis) – Nice studies of an adult male sitting up bonging and ringing along the Bamboo Trail; many, of course, were heard, even one from above the lodge, as it no doubt was moving up to higher elevations to breed. [E]
Pipridae (Manakins)
SERRA DO MAR TYRANT-MANAKIN (Neopelma chrysolophum) [E*]
PIN-TAILED MANAKIN (Ilicura militaris) – Several were heard; an immature male was seen along the Theodoro Trail. [E]
WHITE-BEARDED MANAKIN (Manacus manacus) – Females only.
SWALLOW-TAILED MANAKIN (Chiroxiphia caudata) – One of the most beautiful of all manakins. Seen many times, including males displaying. [E]
Tityridae (Tityras and Allies)
GREENISH SCHIFFORNIS (Schiffornis virescens) – We played with this darter along the Bamboo Trail. [E]
CHESTNUT-CROWNED BECARD (Pachyramphus castaneus) – Seen along the Cedae Trail; we were a little early for them.
WHITE-WINGED BECARD (Pachyramphus polychopterus) – Several seen at REGUA.
Vireonidae (Vireos)
RED-EYED VIREO (MIGRATORY CHIVI) (Vireo olivaceus chivi)
RUFOUS-CROWNED GREENLET (Hylophilus poicilotis) – Heard along the Theodoro Trail. I'm surprised we missed encountering this species more often. [E*]
RUFOUS-BROWED PEPPERSHRIKE (Cyclarhis gujanensis) – Almost daily.
Corvidae (Crows, Jays, and Magpies)
CURL-CRESTED JAY (Cyanocorax cristatellus) – Fine looks at this big, colorful, short-tailed jay near Sumidouro.
Hirundinidae (Swallows)
BLUE-AND-WHITE SWALLOW (Pygochelidon cyanoleuca) – Daily.
TAWNY-HEADED SWALLOW (Alopochelidon fucata) – Nice views of an individual Cirilo picked out in the open country en route to Sumidouro.
SOUTHERN ROUGH-WINGED SWALLOW (Stelgidopteryx ruficollis)
BROWN-CHESTED MARTIN (Progne tapera)
WHITE-RUMPED SWALLOW (Tachycineta leucorrhoa)
Troglodytidae (Wrens)
LONG-BILLED WREN (Cantorchilus longirostris) – Seen our first afternoon at the lodge; heard daily thereafter—that poor, lone male looking for a mate, now for two years! [E]
HOUSE WREN (Troglodytes aedon) – Daily.
Donacobiidae (Donacobius)
BLACK-CAPPED DONACOBIUS (Donacobius atricapilla) – Bill got us on our first one—at REGUA.
Turdidae (Thrushes and Allies)
YELLOW-LEGGED THRUSH (Turdus flavipes)
PALE-BREASTED THRUSH (Turdus leucomelas) – Fairly common on the lodge grounds.
RUFOUS-BELLIED THRUSH (Turdus rufiventris) – Common throughout.
CREAMY-BELLIED THRUSH (Turdus amaurochalinus) – Daily. At least one bird was present on the lodge grounds throughout our stay.
WHITE-NECKED THRUSH (Turdus albicollis albicollis) – Heard on the Bamboo Trail. [*]
Mimidae (Mockingbirds and Thrashers)
CHALK-BROWED MOCKINGBIRD (Mimus saturninus)
Motacillidae (Wagtails and Pipits)
YELLOWISH PIPIT (Anthus lutescens) [*]
Parulidae (New World Warblers)
MASKED YELLOWTHROAT (Geothlypis aequinoctialis) – A male seen along the Portao Azul track.
TROPICAL PARULA (Setophaga pitiayumi) – One along the Cedae Trail.
GOLDEN-CROWNED WARBLER (Basileuterus culicivorus) – Fairly common in the understory.
WHITE-BROWED WARBLER (Myiothlypis leucoblepharus) – Memorable views of a very close bird at the start of the Bamboo Trail. Heard elsewhere. [E]
Coerebidae (Bananaquit)
BANANAQUIT (Coereba flaveola) – Daily.
Thraupidae (Tanagers and Allies)
HOODED TANAGER (Nemosia pileata) – Seen at the REGUA wetland.
CHESTNUT-HEADED TANAGER (Pyrrhocoma ruficeps) – WOW. Always a highlight, this stupendous bird is one of my favorite Atlantic Forest endemics. We had a superb encounter! [E]
BLACK-GOGGLED TANAGER (Trichothraupis melanops) – Fairly common.
CHESTNUT-VENTED CONEBILL (Conirostrum speciosum) – Seen at REGUA.
RUFOUS-HEADED TANAGER (Hemithraupis ruficapilla) – Seen on the Cedae and Theodoro trails. [E]
YELLOW-BACKED TANAGER (Hemithraupis flavicollis) – Very responsive to playback!
FLAME-CRESTED TANAGER (Tachyphonus cristatus) – Seen on the trail behind the lodge and along the Cedae Trail, as well as in the forest at REGUA.
RUBY-CROWNED TANAGER (Tachyphonus coronatus) – Daily at the lodge feeders. [E]
BRAZILIAN TANAGER (Ramphocelus bresilius) – What a knock-out! Enjoyed daily at the lodge feeders. [E]
SAYACA TANAGER (Thraupis sayaca) – Almost daily.
AZURE-SHOULDERED TANAGER (Thraupis cyanoptera) – Fine studies of this endemic. [E]
GOLDEN-CHEVRONED TANAGER (Thraupis ornata) – Almost daily; another pretty, endemic tanager. [E]
PALM TANAGER (Thraupis palmarum) – Here and there.
DIADEMED TANAGER (Stephanophorus diadematus) – Common on the slopes of Pico da Caledonia.
GREEN-HEADED TANAGER (Tangara seledon) – One of four flashy, endemic Tangaras, each a distinct beauty. We never tired of them. [E]
RED-NECKED TANAGER (Tangara cyanocephala) – The only Tangara that doesn't visit the feeders! [E]
BRASSY-BREASTED TANAGER (Tangara desmaresti) – Normally found at somewhat higher elevations than the lodge. [E]
GILT-EDGED TANAGER (Tangara cyanoventris) – Splendid birds along the Portao Azul track. [E]
BURNISHED-BUFF TANAGER (Tangara cayana chloroptera) – Great studies of males and females at the lodge feeders.
BLUE DACNIS (Dacnis cayana) – Dimorphic sexes.
GREEN HONEYCREEPER (Chlorophanes spiza) – A male seen on two occasions at the lodge.
SWALLOW TANAGER (Tersina viridis) – A few seen.
GREEN-WINGED SALTATOR (Saltator similis) – One seen along the Portao Azul track; heard elsewhere.
BUFF-THROATED SALTATOR (Saltator maximus) – A bird seen in the lower part of Orgaos NP.
BLACK-THROATED GROSBEAK (Saltator fuliginosus) – Excellent looks at a singing male at the start of the Cedae Trail. [E]
Emberizidae (Buntings, Sparrows and Allies)
BAY-CHESTED WARBLING-FINCH (Poospiza thoracica) – Several seen on the slopes of Caledonia. [E]
DOUBLE-COLLARED SEEDEATER (Sporophila caerulescens)
WHITE-BELLIED SEEDEATER (Sporophila leucoptera leucoptera) – One male near Duas Barras.
SOOTY GRASSQUIT (Tiaris fuliginosus) – A female seen eating ground seeds at the lodge.
UNIFORM FINCH (Haplospiza unicolor) – Seen best along the Bamboo Trail. [E]
SAFFRON FINCH (Sicalis flaveola) – Daily.
HALF-COLLARED SPARROW (Arremon semitorquatus) – Outstanding views of this lovely sparrow along the Portao Azul track. [E]
RUFOUS-COLLARED SPARROW (Zonotrichia capensis)
Cardinalidae (Cardinals and Allies)
RED-CROWNED ANT-TANAGER (Habia rubica)
YELLOW-GREEN GROSBEAK (Caryothraustes canadensis) – A nice group in the lower section of Orgaos NP.
Icteridae (Troupials and Allies)
CHOPI BLACKBIRD (Gnorimopsar chopi) – Near Duas Barras.
CHESTNUT-CAPPED BLACKBIRD (Chrysomus ruficapillus) – A very attractive blackbird; seen en route to Duas Barras.
SHINY COWBIRD (Molothrus bonariensis) – Daily on the lodge grounds.
RED-RUMPED CACIQUE (Cacicus haemorrhous) – Nesting at the REGUA wetland. [N]
CRESTED OROPENDOLA (Psarocolius decumanus) – Seen in the Duas Barras-Sumidouro area.
Fringillidae (Siskins, Crossbills, and Allies)
VIOLACEOUS EUPHONIA (Euphonia violacea) – Great mimics; seen daily at the lodge feeders.
ORANGE-BELLIED EUPHONIA (Euphonia xanthogaster) – Gaye got us on our first male at the lodge.
CHESTNUT-BELLIED EUPHONIA (Euphonia pectoralis) – A dark-colored Euphonia seen almost daily at the lodge feeders; its distinctive call was evident in a number of areas. [E]
BLUE-NAPED CHLOROPHONIA (Chlorophonia cyanea) – Admired daily at the lodge feeders; a beauty!
HOODED SISKIN (Spinus magellanicus)
Passeridae (Old World Sparrows)
HOUSE SPARROW (Passer domesticus) [I]
MAMMALS
BROWN HOWLER MONKEY (Alouatta fuscus) – A male seen along the Cedae Trail was a great surprise; this howler is endemic to the Atlantic Forest. [E]
GUIANAN SQUIRREL (Sciurus aestuans) – Fairly common.
CAPYBARA (Hydrochaeris hydrochaeris) – Families seen at the REGUA wetland.
BROWN AGOUTI (Dasyprocta variegata) – Gaye had one bound across the trail.
TAYRA (Eira barbara) – Seen by part of the group.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Totals for the tour: 282 bird taxa and 5 mammal taxa