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Before I get into the trip notes, etc., I just have to say that it has been an honor for me to have had the privilege to guide such a fine gathering of folks over the years - bordering on decades now! - that Denis Kania has brought into my birding circle by way of the Dupage birding crowd! With each trip, it just becomes more like a family... like this growing, energetic ball of fun, that just keeps rolling, with great birding, laughs, and camaraderie.
SE Brazil - especially out of Rio - is an enchanting place that really exemplifies the lures of the lush neotropics, and Serra dos Tucanos was the perfect spot to get back together for a solid eight days of birding. With truck loads of endemic birds (common and mysterious!), comfortable lodging in a dreamy setting, gorgeous scenery, and a fantastic support crew (headed up by Cirilo's brilliant birding skills)... could we go wrong? I think not... have we ever?!
Getting to the birds, there were very few that slipped away before we said our "good-byes". We essentially annihilated the antbirds and furnariids - two of the key endemic groups - leaving only a few small holes; many of the few targets that we missed in these departments, you guys had already nabbed on your pre-trip extension. There will always be personal favorites, but here are some that I thought really sent our trip over the top, whether for aesthetic reasons, rarity, or for sheer excitement, but favorites are favorites: Masked Duck, because Jack had put in a request and DD came through with the find!; that regal Mantled Hawk that Diann spotted for us, perched high above the lodge; a particular Red-legged Seriema that ran in and screamed at us for 15 minutes at very close range; that sneaky pair of Pileated Parrots sitting quietly overhead; a slew of dazzling hummers, but how can you beat the males of Frilled Coquette (thanks Peter!) and Plovercrest???; the highly localized Three-toed Jacamar; Spot-billed Toucanet... it is the lodge's logo bird, after all; Itatiaia Spinetail, because it is local and we really made an effort to see it; all of those endemic antbirds, but how can you beat the beauty of that Large-tailed Antshrike?; a pair of Slaty Bristlefronts to die for; cotingas, cotingas, cotingas! Like Hooded Berryeater calling at close range for scope views, a male Black-and-gold Cotinga singing its sad song, the rare and very local Gray-winged Cotinga for killer views, and the stunning Bare-throated Bellbird singing right overhead... wow!; an unbelievable male Pin-tailed Manakin; and a stunning array of gaudy tanagers... Green-headed, Red-necked, Brassy-breasted, and Gilt-edged stealing the show! I also thought that those Blue-naped Chlorophonias, even though wide-ranging and fairly common, brightened each day at the banana feeders.
I'll sign off with this, and let you flip the pages that follow for more memories. Let's start planning the next one and get it in the books, because I'm ready to get back out there in the field for some exhilarating birding, to some far-flung place!
--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
BIRDS
Tinamidae (Tinamous)
SOLITARY TINAMOU (Tinamus solitarius) – Heard a few times right from the porch at Tucanos lodge. [E*]
BROWN TINAMOU (Crypturellus obsoletus) [*]
Anatidae (Ducks, Geese, and Waterfowl)
WHITE-FACED WHISTLING-DUCK (Dendrocygna viduata) – Numerous in the marshes at REGUA.
BLACK-BELLIED WHISTLING-DUCK (Dendrocygna autumnalis) – Also common in the marshes at REGUA; the one with the red bill.
BRAZILIAN TEAL (Amazonetta brasiliensis) – Especially nice in flight when they flash the wing speculum; seen in good numbers at the REGUA marshes.
MASKED DUCK (Nomonyx dominicus) – Jack - and maybe a few others... secretly - had put in a special order for this one, and what do you know? Dennis S. finds us a female right out in the middle of the pond at REGUA; Cirilo said that he had not seen it there for over a year!
Cracidae (Guans, Chachalacas, and Curassows)
DUSKY-LEGGED GUAN (Penelope obscura) – It is always nice to see a Penelope guan! We had our first looks during our first look around Portao Azul when we found a few feeding in some fruiting trees, trees that also attracted some tanagers.
Fregatidae (Frigatebirds)
MAGNIFICENT FRIGATEBIRD (Fregata magnificens) – On our last afternoon as we made our way through Rio traffic to the airport, padding the list with just a few more so that we could ease over 300 for the trip!
Phalacrocoracidae (Cormorants and Shags)
NEOTROPIC CORMORANT (Phalacrocorax brasilianus) – Rio... from the bus.
Ardeidae (Herons, Egrets, and Bitterns)
RUFESCENT TIGER-HERON (Tigrisoma lineatum) – Nice scope views at REGUA of this regal heron.
COCOI HERON (Ardea cocoi) – We had what looked like an immature bird at REGUA.
GREAT EGRET (Ardea alba) – A common egret, even in roadside ponds.
SNOWY EGRET (Egretta thula) – On the drive to Rio from Tucanos... in our quest for 300!
CATTLE EGRET (Bubulcus ibis) – The usual common egret along roadsides... think we all had nice views...
STRIATED HERON (Butorides striata) – Fairly common in the REGUA marshes.
WHISTLING HERON (Syrigma sibilatrix) – One of the most distinctive and handsome herons around (with those pastel blues and pinks), and it also happens to be very well named, owing to its strange, whistled call that is unlike any other heron. We had nice looks at them on the hillsides on our way to Sumidouro.
CAPPED HERON (Pilherodius pileatus) – Some saw the skittish bird that hung around peripherally at the REGUA marshes. This is usually not that wary of a bird, but it flushed each time we approached.
BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON (Nycticorax nycticorax) – Joe had one at REGUA while we lingered behind with the Rufous-sided Crakes.
Cathartidae (New World Vultures)
BLACK VULTURE (Coragyps atratus) – On most days.
TURKEY VULTURE (Cathartes aura) – Ditto, but less common than the previous species.
LESSER YELLOW-HEADED VULTURE (Cathartes burrovianus) – Low-flying birds out over the open country on our Sumidouro and REGUA days.
Accipitridae (Hawks, Eagles, and Kites)
GRAY-HEADED KITE (Leptodon cayanensis) – One fly-over, that most of us could have seen better, on our day out to Sumidouro.
HOOK-BILLED KITE (Chondrohierax uncinatus) – One came flying by on our day out to Portao Azul.
RUFOUS-THIGHED KITE (Harpagus diodon) – Pretty common over the course of the trip, but we had some especially nice views of them nest-building along the Theodoros trail.
PLUMBEOUS KITE (Ictinia plumbea) – We had a few birds of this genus drifting up in the distance on our way to Sumidouro that may have been this species, but we couldn't rule out Mississippi on migration.
MANTLED HAWK (Leucopternis polionotus) – WOW! Diann spotted a perched bird for us from the lodge for awesome scope studies... what a gorgeous hawk! [E]
SAVANNA HAWK (Buteogallus meridionalis) – Some nice looks at this large hawk, with rufous highlights, a few times in drier areas.
ROADSIDE HAWK (Buteo magnirostris) – A common neotropical hawk - the one with the rufous wing-panels - that we saw a few times.
WHITE-TAILED HAWK (Buteo albicaudatus) – Joe spotted our first one on our day to Pico da Caledonia.
Falconidae (Falcons and Caracaras)
SOUTHERN CARACARA (Caracara plancus) – Almost daily.
YELLOW-HEADED CARACARA (Milvago chimachima) – Common in cleared areas.
AMERICAN KESTREL (Falco sparverius) – Seen along the roadsides in the Sumidouro area.
APLOMADO FALCON (Falco femoralis) – A couple of them came by during our birding to Sumidouro.
Cariamidae (Seriemas)
RED-LEGGED SERIEMA (Cariama cristata) – I have seen seriemas a number of times, but have never experienced anything like this! What a thrill to have this impressive and imposing bird - reminding me of a velociraptor! - come running down the hill towards to then launch into full display only meters away at Fazenda Sao Bernardo... awesome!
Rallidae (Rails, Gallinules, and Coots)
RUFOUS-SIDED CRAKE (Laterallus melanophaius) – Cirilo led us right to a responsive pair at the REGUA marshes for some really nice studies.
SLATY-BREASTED WOOD-RAIL (Aramides saracura) – It was a real treat to have that resident pair at Tucanos that visited the garden pond several times a day, and gave us its wake-up call each morning! [E]
ASH-THROATED CRAKE (Porzana albicollis) – I drew one right out into a field for tremendous scope views on our way to Sumidouro.
BLACKISH RAIL (Pardirallus nigricans) – Seen equally well right at the same spot as the previous species.
PURPLE GALLINULE (Porphyrio martinica) – This and the next gallinule were common and seen well at the REGUA marshes.
COMMON GALLINULE (Gallinula galeata)
Aramidae (Limpkin)
LIMPKIN (Aramus guarauna) – Heard at REGUA. [*]
Charadriidae (Plovers and Lapwings)
SOUTHERN LAPWING (Vanellus chilensis) – Abundant in almost any cleared area and roadsides, but a handsome bird nonetheless!
Jacanidae (Jacanas)
WATTLED JACANA (Jacana jacana) – Seen best at the REGUA marshes.
Laridae (Gulls, Terns, and Skimmers)
KELP GULL (Larus dominicanus) – From the van on our way to the Rio airport... through the tinted windows...
Columbidae (Pigeons and Doves)
ROCK PIGEON (Columba livia) [I]
PICAZURO PIGEON (Patagioenas picazuro) – The common and large pigeon that we saw throughout.
PLUMBEOUS PIGEON (Patagioenas plumbea) – Never could catch even a glimpse. [*]
RUDDY GROUND-DOVE (Columbina talpacoti) – A common little ground-dove in cleared and forest-edge habitats.
GRAY-FRONTED DOVE (Leptotila rufaxilla) – Heard around Tucanos. [*]
RUDDY QUAIL-DOVE (Geotrygon montana) – Heard at Serra dos Orgaos National Park. [*]
Psittacidae (Parrots)
MAROON-BELLIED PARAKEET (Pyrrhura frontalis frontalis) – The Pyrrhura of the area, and quite a fancy one. We had had daily views of them at very close range right at the lodge banana feeders, where folks had some super photographic opportunities.
WHITE-EYED PARAKEET (Aratinga leucophthalma) – Good looks at this Aratinga on our day to Sumidouro.
BLUE-WINGED MACAW (Primolius maracana) – Quick views of a pair when they flew by near Nova Friburgo.
BLUE-WINGED PARROTLET (Forpus xanthopterygius) – Nice scope views at a small group of this tiny parrotlet near Nova Friburgo.
PLAIN PARAKEET (Brotogeris tirica) – An endemic Brotogeris of the SE Brazil biome; we had plenty of fine looks over the course of our week's worth of birding, such as right around the lodge. [E]
PILEATED PARROT (Pionopsitta pileata) – A tough endemic to find, so we were really fortunate to have stumbled into a close feeding pair right above us along the Bamboo trail.. nice! [E]
SCALY-HEADED PARROT (Pionus maximiliani) – Mostly seen as fly overs, but we did catch them perched a time or two for scope looks, such as our day to Sumidouro.
BLUE-BELLIED PARROT (Triclaria malachitacea) – Heard (singing its thrush-like song) and glimpsed as flybys a couple of times, but this extremely wary parrot usually takes some luck. It was nice to know that we were in its immediate presence. [E]
Cuculidae (Cuckoos)
SQUIRREL CUCKOO (Piaya cayana) – This large cuckoo was seen a well on a couple of days.
GUIRA CUCKOO (Guira guira) – Common, such as in roadside fields, in drier areas, and really festive looking bird!
STRIPED CUCKOO (Tapera naevia) – Nice views of this dry habitat cuckoo perched on a wire on our way to Sumidouro.
GREATER ANI (Crotophaga major) – This large, iridescent ani was seen well near the main houses at REGUA.
SMOOTH-BILLED ANI (Crotophaga ani) – Common in cleared areas.
Strigidae (Owls)
TAWNY-BROWED OWL (Pulsatrix koeniswaldiana) – Heard by some from the lodge, but our attempts to call one in weren't successful. [*]
BURROWING OWL (Athene cunicularia) – A few in cleared areas; an owl able to live comfortably around humans!
Apodidae (Swifts)
WHITE-COLLARED SWIFT (Streptoprocne zonaris) – The common large swift that we saw daily in sizable groups.
SICK'S SWIFT (Chaetura meridionalis) – This one has enjoyed a convoluted taxonomic history, once grouped with another form - that is now known to be more allied with the Vaux's Swift complex - as Ashy-tailed Swift. Looks like things got sorted out though, and we had them on a few days flying overhead.
GRAY-RUMPED SWIFT (Chaetura cinereiventris) – The common swift over the lodge.
Trochilidae (Hummingbirds)
BLACK JACOBIN (Florisuga fusca) – An endemic jacobin of SE Brazil, and one of the most common feeder birds at Tucanos lodge. [E]
SAW-BILLED HERMIT (Ramphodon naevius) – An amazing species of hermit, with a striking plumage and hulking size; we had them daily, point blank, at Tucanos' feeders. [E]
REDDISH HERMIT (Phaethornis ruber) – Great views at this richly-colored, and tiny, hermit at the entrance to the Portao Azul road.
PLANALTO HERMIT (Phaethornis pretrei) – Jack and I had quick views of one when it zipped by, sporting that rufousy rump.
SCALE-THROATED HERMIT (Phaethornis eurynome) – Fairly common in the forest understory, and seen well a couple of times, such as along the Theodoros and Bamboo trails.
FRILLED COQUETTE (Lophornis magnificus) – Peter staked out that unbelievable male out by the pool for staggering views on a few days! [E]
BRAZILIAN RUBY (Clytolaema rubricauda) – Encountered a few times for nice views. [E]
AMETHYST WOODSTAR (Calliphlox amethystina) – This tiny hummer was seen well a couple of times for scope studies.
GLITTERING-BELLIED EMERALD (Chlorostilbon aureoventris) – Most common in slightly drier areas.
PLOVERCREST (Stephanoxis lalandi lalandi) – Crippling studies of males through the scope at Macae da Cima one lovely afternoon right after the bellbirds. [E]
SWALLOW-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD (Eupetomena macroura) – Seen numerous times for fine studies.
VIOLET-CAPPED WOODNYMPH (Thalurania glaucopis) – The woodnymph endemic to the Atlantic forests, and a beautiful hummer; also a feeder bird at Tucanos. [E]
SOMBRE HUMMINGBIRD (Aphantochroa cirrochloris) – This species' plumage is certainly consistent with its name; another abundant bird at Tucanos' feeders. [E]
WHITE-THROATED HUMMINGBIRD (Leucochloris albicollis) – This boldly patterned hummer was common during our week of birding at a number of sites, and we even had one at a nest along the Theodoros trail. [N]
VERSICOLORED EMERALD (Amazilia versicolor) – This small hummer was seen on most days, and in some nice light to really appreciate those rich greenish-turquoise colors on the chest and throat.
SAPPHIRE-SPANGLED EMERALD (Amazilia lactea) – Seen well during our day out to Sumidouro.
WHITE-CHINNED SAPPHIRE (Hylocharis cyanus) – Nice scope views of one at a lek at REGUA.
Trogonidae (Trogons)
SURUCUA TROGON (Trogon surrucura) – It took us the better part of a week to get the looks we were hoping for of a male, but we finally did it, along the Cedae trail one afternoon! [E]
BLACK-THROATED TROGON (Trogon rufus chrysochloros) – Nice looks at a pair along the boardwalk trail at Serra dos Orgoas N.P.!
Momotidae (Motmots)
RUFOUS-CAPPED MOTMOT (Baryphthengus ruficapillus) – We had a go at them the first afternoon together, and had some decent views, but really had the looks we wanted later on up on the ridge behind the lodge one afternoon when we spotted a few calling birds. [E]
Alcedinidae (Kingfishers)
RINGED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle torquata) – REGUA marshes.
Bucconidae (Puffbirds)
WHITE-EARED PUFFBIRD (Nystalus chacuru) – We called in a really responsive pair for dynamite views on our way to Sumidouro.
Galbulidae (Jacamars)
THREE-TOED JACAMAR (Jacamaralcyon tridactyla) – It took an entire day of birding to get to them, but we finally arrived in the afternoon to the stake-out spot, where we celebrated sensational views of this endemic. [E]
Ramphastidae (Toucans)
SAFFRON TOUCANET (Pteroglossus bailloni) – Well, you guys say this one well pre-tour, but it was still nice to re-visit it during our birding along the boardwalk at Serra dos Orgaos National Park. [E]
BLACK-NECKED ARACARI (Pteroglossus aracari) – Nicely in the dry valleys near Sumidouro during our lunch stop.
SPOT-BILLED TOUCANET (Selenidera maculirostris) – This endemic - and sort of Tucanos lodge's emblematic species - was seen well a couple of times during our stay. [E]
TOCO TOUCAN (Ramphastos toco) – The Tequila Sunrise bill! We saw this species well in the REGUA area.
CHANNEL-BILLED TOUCAN (Ramphastos vitellinus ariel) – This subspecies is very different from those found further west, looking almost more like a Red-billed Toucan.
Picidae (Woodpeckers)
WHITE-BARRED PICULET (Picumnus cirratus) – This little endemic performed really well for us along the Theodoros trail! [E]
WHITE WOODPECKER (Melanerpes candidus) – Quick flybys on our day to Sumidouro.
YELLOW-EARED WOODPECKER (Veniliornis maculifrons) – Nice views of this small woodpecker a couple of times with the flocks, and we even saw one our first afternoon together when a individual came pecking about right next to the banana feeders behind the lodge. [E]
YELLOW-THROATED WOODPECKER (Piculus flavigula erythropis) – Donnalyn found this one for us at REGUA up the trail with an active mixed flock... nice!
WHITE-BROWED WOODPECKER (Piculus aurulentus) – Also known as Yellow-browed Woodpecker and an Atlantic forest endemic, relative to the more wide-ranging Yellow-throated Woodpecker. We had fine studies of this looker a couple of times; our first being up on the slopes coming down from Pico da Caledonia. [E]
CAMPO FLICKER (Colaptes campestris campestris) – Common in open and drier areas en route to Sumidouro.
BLOND-CRESTED WOODPECKER (Celeus flavescens) – Seen by many on the pre-trip extension, but after a few tries, we nabbed the ones that were hanging around the lodge This is really one of the more spectacular Celeus species, with that exaggerated crest!
Furnariidae (Ovenbirds and Woodcreepers)
TAWNY-THROATED LEAFTOSSER (Sclerurus mexicanus bahiae) – Pretty common along the trails right behind the lodge where we coaxed on into view. [E]
WING-BANDED HORNERO (Furnarius figulus) – This handsome little hornero is common in drier open areas. [E]
RUFOUS HORNERO (Furnarius rufus) – Larger and more uniform than the previous species, but found in the same sort of habitats.
RUFOUS-CAPPED SPINETAIL (Synallaxis ruficapilla) – We only heard them on our first try at Portao Azul, but caught up with this bamboo-based bird in the following days for nice views a couple of times, such as at Serra dos Orgaos National Park. [E]
SPIX'S SPINETAIL (Synallaxis spixi) – Good looks along the Portao Azul road. Also known as the Chicli Spinetail.
PALLID SPINETAIL (Cranioleuca pallida) – An arboreal species that we saw well a couple of times. [E]
YELLOW-CHINNED SPINETAIL (Certhiaxis cinnamomeus) – Common in wet pastures and marshes.
ITATIAIA SPINETAIL (Asthenes moreirae) – This localized endemic had us sweating - literally and figuratively! - up on Pico da Caledonia, but we finally found a responsive bird up at the top, where it came right into the close bushes right below us. [E]
RUFOUS-FRONTED THORNBIRD (Phacellodomus rufifrons) – This species' large stick nests are easily found in dry, often roadside habitat. We had them well on a couple of days.
ORANGE-EYED THORNBIRD (Phacellodomus erythrophthalmus) – Nice, close views along the Portao Azul road at this striking thornbird species. [E]
WHITE-BROWED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Anabacerthia amaurotis) – With a flock along the Theodoros trail, and then again at Serra dos Orgaos N.P.; a relative of the Montane Foliage-gleaner, that many of you have seen in Ecuador. [E]
BUFF-BROWED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Syndactyla rufosuperciliata) – Some had looks along the Bamboo trail.
OCHRE-BREASTED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Philydor lichtensteini) – We finally tracked one down with a large flock as it foraged mid-level along the Cedae trail. [E]
BLACK-CAPPED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Philydor atricapillus) – We did a fine job with this family this trip, seeing all of the foliage gleaners well. This one gave us the most trouble, and I was starting to wonder where they were, but our strategy of hitting the lodge trails one last afternoon - thanks to Cirilo's suggestion - paid off, nailing nice views for most only a short walk from the lodge. [E]
BUFF-FRONTED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Philydor rufum) – The most common foliage-gleaner with canopy flocks, and bird that ranges out to both slopes of the Andes.
WHITE-COLLARED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Anabazenops fuscus) – One of the more special foliage-gleaners to get on this trip, and we did so along the Bamboo trail, when we called in a pair. [E]
PALE-BROWED TREEHUNTER (Cichlocolaptes leucophrus leucophrus) – A monotypic genus which reminds me most of the woodhaunter group in overall look and behavior... not sure how they link up genetically though. At any rate, we had some fine studies - even through the scope - at Serra dos Orgaos N.P. [E]
WHITE-EYED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Automolus leucophthalmus) – An large understory foliage-gleaner that we saw well a couple of times, such as along the Cedae trail. This one has the obvious pale eyes. [E]
SHARP-TAILED STREAMCREEPER (Lochmias nematura nematura) – Most common right out in front of the lodge along the stream, where we all enjoyed some nice shows.
SHARP-BILLED TREEHUNTER (Heliobletus contaminatus) – We had not crossed paths with this one until we went especially looking for it on our last morning along the road up to the Bamboo trail, again thanks to Cirilo's helpful advice. It didn't take too long before we located a pair that performed wonderfully for us as they foraged with a small flock. As for the meaning of its scientific name, as there was some discussion and speculation? Well, "Heliobletus" means sun-scorched; "contaminatus" means unclean, dirty, but apparently this was based on a poor specimen. Wow: dirty, sun-scorched bird... this guy got shredded in the naming process! [E]
STREAKED XENOPS (Xenops rutilans) – This small nuthatch-like furnariid is common with mixed flocks.
PLAIN-BROWN WOODCREEPER (PLAIN-WINGED) (Dendrocincla fuliginosa turdina) – A very likely split from Plain-brown Woodcreeper... wow do they sound different! Just a matter of time. [E]
OLIVACEOUS WOODCREEPER (OLIVACEOUS) (Sittasomus griseicapillus sylviellus) – A common and small woodcreeper across much of the neotropics, but beware, there are many different forms that will likely be split, and this SE Brazil form is one of them. This rufousy form is really distinctive. [E]
WHITE-THROATED WOODCREEPER (Xiphocolaptes albicollis) – A hulking woodcreeper, and a close relative of the Strong-billed Woodcreeper. We had them well right around the lodge numerous times. [E]
PLANALTO WOODCREEPER (Dendrocolaptes platyrostris) – Good looks at Serra dos Orgaos N.P.; a relative of the Black-banded Woodcreeper that many of you may know from previous, Amazonian travels. [E]
LESSER WOODCREEPER (LESSER) (Xiphorhynchus fuscus fuscus) – Well, you guys had already seen this one well on the pre-trip tour... but I was happy to see it along the Cedae trail and get reacquainted with it! [E]
SCALED WOODCREEPER (SCALED) (Lepidocolaptes squamatus squamatus) – Fairly common and seen well a few times. [E]
BLACK-BILLED SCYTHEBILL (Campylorhamphus falcularius) – Really nice views of this endemic scythebill at Portao Azul. [E]
Thamnophilidae (Typical Antbirds)
GIANT ANTSHRIKE (Batara cinerea) – Awesome views of this imposing antshrike at Portao Azul when we called them out for even road crossings... wow! Technically, this group got to see all of the "big five" antshrikes - #'s 21-25 on the checklist! - this trip. You saw four on the main body of the trip, and then also the Spot-backed on the pre-trip extension, so we didn't put much effort into finding this one. Not always an easy feat!
LARGE-TAILED ANTSHRIKE (Mackenziaena leachii) – A stunningly plumaged antshrike that we saw on our first morning together when we teased one out of the Bamboo understory along the Theodoros trail... nice! [E]
TUFTED ANTSHRIKE (Mackenziaena severa) – Seen unusually well (and quite easily) at Portao Azul. [E]
WHITE-BEARDED ANTSHRIKE (Biatas nigropectus) – We had a female creep in far in along the Bamboo trail that only four folks got onto; once it retreated, we couldn't get it back in, despite further attempts. [E]
CHESTNUT-BACKED ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus palliatus) – Nicely during our day out to Sumidouro.
SOORETAMA SLATY-ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus ambiguus) – Wonderfully cooperative at REGUA. Remember that the word "Sooretama" means Atlantic forests. [E]
VARIABLE ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus caerulescens caerulescens) – Seen a few times, but first along Theodoros trail when we coaxed a male across the trail a few times.
SPOT-BREASTED ANTVIREO (Dysithamnus stictothorax) – Nice looks along the Bamboo trail during our glorious morning there. [E]
PLAIN ANTVIREO (Dysithamnus mentalis) – A common antvireo throughout the neotropics.
RUFOUS-BACKED ANTVIREO (Dysithamnus xanthopterus) – Occurs higher than the other antvireos, where it inhabits temperate, more stunted forest woodlands, often along ridges. This also happens to be one of the more handsome of this genus. We had good looks at them on the upper sector of Serra dos Orgoas N.P., and heard them them on the higher slopes up at Pico da Caledonia. [E]
STAR-THROATED ANTWREN (Myrmotherula gularis) – This understory antwren was seen as a group right along the trails behind the lodge one afternoon. [E]
WHITE-FLANKED ANTWREN (SILVERY-FLANKED) (Myrmotherula axillaris luctuosa) – A pretty easy find along the rails at REGUA. This SE Brazil form is quite different from forms further west, and probably will be split one day! [E]
SALVADORI'S ANTWREN (Myrmotherula minor) – A pair with a fast-moving mixed flock right behind the lodge at Tucanos on our last afternoon; apparently this is not a common property bird at all, so we were lucky! [E]
UNICOLORED ANTWREN (Myrmotherula unicolor) – Another easy find right along the secondary forest trails at REGUA when we called in a pair for nice views. That was quite an active spot for some key antbirds! [E]
RUFOUS-WINGED ANTWREN (Herpsilochmus rufimarginatus) – This wide-ranging canopy antwren was seen pretty well with a large mixed flock along the upper trails at REGUA.
SERRA ANTWREN (Formicivora serrana interposita) – A responsive pair in drier, roadside forest on our way out to Sumidouro was a hit. [E]
FERRUGINOUS ANTBIRD (Drymophila ferruginea) – This genus of strikingly plumaged, mostly bamboo-based little antbirds really diversifies in SE Brazil, and you guys got to see all of them; remember you got Scaled pre-trip, so we didn't work for it. We found this stunner for wonderful views in a bamboo patch along the Theodoros trail. [E]
BERTONI'S ANTBIRD (Drymophila rubricollis) – This species went unnoticed for years, long thought to be a Ferruginous Antbird; this is where sound really helped to hammer out the confusion. The two look really similar and are frequently found together so the mix up wasn't too surprising. We had good looks on our first day together along the Theodoros trail. [E]
RUFOUS-TAILED ANTBIRD (Drymophila genei) – Tends to occur at higher elevations than the others of the genus, up in the more stunted forests. We had tremendous studies of one - with relatively no effort - up on Pico da Caledonia. [E]
OCHRE-RUMPED ANTBIRD (Drymophila ochropyga) – It took us a number of days to get this otherwise pretty common Drymophila species; we had them well in a thick bamboo patch along the... Bamboo trail! [E]
DUSKY-TAILED ANTBIRD (Drymophila malura) – We found them in a taller bamboo stand at Portao Azul for nice views. [E]
STREAK-CAPPED ANTWREN (Terenura maculata) – This canopy antwren was common with the flocks at Tucanos, where they frequently graced the gardens. [E]
WHITE-SHOULDERED FIRE-EYE (Pyriglena leucoptera) – Good looks at this skulker a few times, but one that most had already seen well on the pre-trip extension. [E]
Formicariidae (Antthrushes)
RUFOUS-CAPPED ANTTHRUSH (Formicarius colma) – A number of folks actually managed to see this one from the boardwalk at Serra dos Orgaos N.P. as it stalked about in the shady understory.
SHORT-TAILED ANTTHRUSH (Chamaeza campanisona campanisona) – Diann, Joy and I had quick views down along the Cedae trail when it scooted through in the understory!
SUCH'S ANTTHRUSH (Chamaeza meruloides) [E*]
RUFOUS-TAILED ANTTHRUSH (Chamaeza ruficauda) – Most managed to get the right angle along the Bamboo trail during a playback session with this loud species... nice! Also known as "Brazilian Antthrush". [E]
Grallariidae (Antpittas)
VARIEGATED ANTPITTA (Grallaria varia) – It didn't want to play. [*]
Conopophagidae (Gnateaters)
RUFOUS GNATEATER (Conopophaga lineata) – We encountered them first along the Theodoros trail, but the viewing angles were tough, so I think we were all pleased to have reconnected with them along the Bamboo trail later on the trip for some pretty top-notch studies. [E]
BLACK-CHEEKED GNATEATER (Conopophaga melanops) – A really undistinguished name for such a handsome group of birds... "gnateaters"... How about something more lively, like "gnatgrabbers", or "gnatsnatchers"? I guess it all boils down to the verb "to eat", which is sort of a lackluster, boring word. Ok, enough rambling! We had some quality views of this little guy in the understory a couple of times, such as right up the trails from the lodge. [E]
Rhinocryptidae (Tapaculos)
SLATY BRISTLEFRONT (Merulaxis ater) – I couldn't believe our luck in calling in this reclusive, understory species along the Bamboo trail, where in the end it almost seeming to follow us, popping into view at very close range along the Bamboo trail. "Bristlefront"... now that is a name! [E]
WHITE-BREASTED TAPACULO (Eleoscytalopus indigoticus) – It was close, but very talented at staying out of sight... had to settle for heard only. [E*]
SERRA DO MAR TAPACULO (Scytalopus notorius) – The convoluted taxonomic history of this bird has been pretty much resolved after decades of relative confusion. Rather than explaining it here - and getting it wrong - it is pretty easy to look up on line. At any rate we enjoyed some pretty decent views up on Pico da Caledonia when we called one into the shrubbery right below us. [E]
Tyrannidae (Tyrant Flycatchers)
SOUTHERN BEARDLESS-TYRANNULET (Camptostoma obsoletum) – A common tyrannulet in drier areas throughout South America, but do keep track of where you see them as there may some splits on the horizon!
YELLOW TYRANNULET (Capsiempis flaveola) – In the roadside growth at Portao Azul.
YELLOW-BELLIED ELAENIA (Elaenia flavogaster) – Common in many parts of South America, especially in direr areas.
SOOTY TYRANNULET (Serpophaga nigricans) – We called them right up out or a wet pasture next to a stream on our way to Sumidouro.
WHITE-CRESTED TYRANNULET (Serpophaga subcristata) – I honestly can't remember where exactly we saw this... but it was on the 19th!!!
OCHRE-BELLIED FLYCATCHER (Mionectes oleagineus) – Good looks along the upper trails at REGUA.
GRAY-HOODED FLYCATCHER (Mionectes rufiventris) – A relative of the previous species, but endemic to the Atlantic forests; the gray hood makes it easily distinguishable. [E]
SEPIA-CAPPED FLYCATCHER (Leptopogon amaurocephalus) – A common and noisy bird with just about every flock!
MOTTLE-CHEEKED TYRANNULET (Phylloscartes ventralis) – A sprite little tyrannulet that we saw with flocks a couple of times, seeing our first ones at the head of the Theodoros trail.
SERRA DO MAR TYRANNULET (Phylloscartes difficilis) – Sneaky, sneaky! We heard this one calling as it moved with a flock up on Pico da Caledonia, where it came quietly into a bush right below for decent views before retreating. [E]
ROUGH-LEGGED TYRANNULET (BURMEISTER'S) (Phyllomyias burmeisteri burmeisteri) [*]
PLANALTO TYRANNULET (Phyllomyias fasciatus) – The common Phyllomyias in this part of South America.
GRAY-CAPPED TYRANNULET (Phyllomyias griseocapilla) – An eleventh hour bird that some saw right behind the pool at the lodge when it sneaked it to have a look. [E]
SOUTHERN ANTPIPIT (Corythopis delalandi) – A really cooperative pair at REGUA was a treat, where we were even able to throw the scope on it!
EARED PYGMY-TYRANT (Myiornis auricularis) – Nice looks at this tiny tyrannid along the Theodoros trail. [E]
DRAB-BREASTED PYGMY-TYRANT (Hemitriccus diops) – This one gave us a hard time for much of the trip, staying out of sight skillfully, but we finally found a cooperative bunch along the Bamboo trail. [E]
EYE-RINGED TODY-TYRANT (Hemitriccus orbitatus) – The birds along the trails behind the lodge seemed silent nd uncooperative, but the birds at REGUA more than made up for it! [E]
HANGNEST TODY-TYRANT (Hemitriccus nidipendulus) – A bird of more stunted woodlands, with sparser vegetation. We picked up a pair for excellent views on our way out to Sumidouro, right at the same spot as the Serra Antwrens. [E]
OCHRE-FACED TODY-FLYCATCHER (Poecilotriccus plumbeiceps) – Fairly common in bamboo understory; we had good looks at them along the Theodoros trail.
GRAY-HEADED TODY-FLYCATCHER (Todirostrum poliocephalum) – Also known as Yellow-lored Tody-Flycatcher. This is a common species that we saw particularly well right around the lodge gardens. [E]
YELLOW-OLIVE FLYCATCHER (SOORETAMA) (Tolmomyias sulphurescens sulphurescens) – The nominate form of a very complicated taxon that may end up being split into many different species. We had them commonly in a many areas over the course of the trip. [E]
WHITE-THROATED SPADEBILL (Platyrinchus mystaceus) – Common right behind the lodge along the trails.
WHISKERED FLYCATCHER (YELLOW-RUMPED) (Myiobius barbatus mastacalis) – Fairly common in small numbers in the understory of forest... the one with the yellow rump! [E]
BRAN-COLORED FLYCATCHER (Myiophobus fasciatus) – More common in drier, open areas.
EULER'S FLYCATCHER (EULER'S) (Lathrotriccus euleri euleri) – Seen at Portao Azul, and wide-ranging South American species.
BLUE-BILLED BLACK-TYRANT (Knipolegus cyanirostris) – A few up on the slopes at Pico da Caledonia.
VELVETY BLACK-TYRANT (Knipolegus nigerrimus) – We had a few of these as well up on Pico da Caledonia. [E]
YELLOW-BROWED TYRANT (Satrapa icterophrys) – This handsome tyrant was seen well at an unlikely stop - in some farm land - as we made our way to Sumidouro.
WHITE-RUMPED MONJITA (Xolmis velatus) – Common out in the open country at REGUA.
STREAMER-TAILED TYRANT (Gubernetes yetapa) – One of the fanciest members of the tyrant family, and we were even treated to some of its explosive, territorial wing displays on our way to Sumidouro.. wow!
MASKED WATER-TYRANT (Fluvicola nengeta) – Always a joy to watch and we had them running around the gardens at Tucanos lodge, which made for some nice photo opportunities!
WHITE-HEADED MARSH TYRANT (Arundinicola leucocephala) – Nice views of them perched out over the marshes at REGUA.
LONG-TAILED TYRANT (Colonia colonus) – Nice looks at this long-tailed species a couple of times.
CATTLE TYRANT (Machetornis rixosa) – Common in open country.
RUFOUS-TAILED ATTILA (Attila phoenicurus) [*]
GRAY-HOODED ATTILA (Attila rufus) [E*]
SIRYSTES (EASTERN) (Sirystes sibilator sibilator) [*]
SWAINSON'S FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus swainsoni) – Seen a coupe of times this tour, but first at the head of the Theodoros trail. This is a pretty washed out Myiarchus, that often shows pale at the base of the bill.
SHORT-CRESTED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus ferox) – Pretty common in more open habitats.
GREAT KISKADEE (Pitangus sulphuratus) – One we all know well!
BOAT-BILLED FLYCATCHER (Megarynchus pitangua) – A heavier-set version of the previous species, especially that bill, which tends to be quite frugivorous.
SOCIAL FLYCATCHER (Myiozetetes similis) – Pretty common in non-forested areas.
STREAKED FLYCATCHER (Myiodynastes maculatus) – Common throughout!
PIRATIC FLYCATCHER (Legatus leucophaius) [a*]
VARIEGATED FLYCATCHER (Empidonomus varius) – A couple of times for scope views. [a]
TROPICAL KINGBIRD (Tyrannus melancholicus) – Throughout the neotropics, and one seen on most trips down here, often in healthy numbers!
FORK-TAILED FLYCATCHER (Tyrannus savana) – The most elegant of the Tyrannus flycatchers.
Oxyruncidae (Sharpbill)
SHARPBILL (Oxyruncus cristatus) – A strange bird placed in its own family; this one was been placed with the cotingas. SE Brazil has to be one of the best places to find this often hard to find species, but it can be quite tricky to actually see, as they tend to be shy, canopy birds. We worked one along the Theodoros trail and finally managed to get it to pop into an angle that worked for most of the group!
Cotingidae (Cotingas)
HOODED BERRYEATER (Carpornis cucullata) – SE Brazil is one of the best places to bird if you are in for some really cool, endemic, and diverse cotingids... wow! We had fabulous studies at this stunner, beckoning us with its loud calls, along the Bamboo trail. [E]
BLACK-AND-GOLD COTINGA (Tijuca atra) – The males of this species are boldly plumaged and sing their melancholy song throughout the day from high perches in upper elevation forests. Our first views of this species up on Pico da Caledonia were actually of a female coming to a fruiting tree, close to the highest drivable spot, but Cirilo felt confident that we'd find the males a little lower down, and what do you know? Right after lunch, a short stroll down the road produced crippled studies at singing males! [E]
GRAY-WINGED COTINGA (Tijuca condita) – One of the real goal birds of this trip, as well as being on one of South America's most range-restricted species, occurring only on a few localized, high peaks out of Rio. To get it here, you have to drive right up to the end of the road at Pico de Caledonia, and scan the forests that sprawl out below. Joe put it best when he said that I could have made the search a little more suspenseful; no sooner had we gotten geared up after the pick-up truck ride, when Cirilo spotted one perched right up on one of its favorite perches for really nice scope studies! Hey, I'll take that any day over having to scour the hills, wondering where they could, which apparently happens a good percentage of the time! [E]
BARE-THROATED BELLBIRD (Procnias nudicollis) – As with a number of the cotinga group, this one has one of South America's most distinctive and memorable voices... "gong"! We made an afternoon side trip, after a long day of birding, up the Macae de Cima road in search of this specialty, and were rewarded with some fabulous scope views. But this wasn't the end of it; later on in the trip, down the Bamboo trail, we scored some tremendously close views of a male perched in the subcanopy that just blew us away! [E]
Pipridae (Manakins)
SERRA DO MAR TYRANT-MANAKIN (Neopelma chrysolophum) – After a few attempts at known spots, we called in a very responsive male at Sao Bernardo for amazing views. Not a real looker, but an interesting endemic nonetheless. [E]
PIN-TAILED MANAKIN (Ilicura militaris) – After having seen a couple of females well, we were still pulling for a superb male, and found it at Serra dos Orgaos N.P. for awesome views! [E]
WHITE-BEARDED MANAKIN (Manacus manacus) [*]
SWALLOW-TAILED MANAKIN (Chiroxiphia caudata) – Also called Blue Manakin, and a common endemic. We enjoyed some pretty stunning scope views a few times. [E]
Tityridae (Tityras and Allies)
BLACK-TAILED TITYRA (Tityra cayana) – The common tityra.
GREENISH SCHIFFORNIS (Schiffornis virescens) – This genus was until very recently placed with the manakins, but has been shown genetically to be allied with the becards... what'll they unearth next?! Although a shy understory species, we lured one out for nice views along the Theodoros trail. [E]
SHRIKE-LIKE COTINGA (BRAZILIAN) (Laniisoma elegans elegans) – A reclusive bird of humid, foothill forests, but by voice, not particularly rare in this part of the world! Seeing it, however, can be a real challenge, as it has a special talent for staying out of sight, even in the midstory, but we did have some luck calling one in for decent views (for those with the right angle). This is another species that has been re-classified and, joined into the becard family. [E]
GREEN-BACKED BECARD (Pachyramphus viridis) – A pretty common bird; we had nice looks at them at Portao Azul.
CHESTNUT-CROWNED BECARD (Pachyramphus castaneus) – This small becard was seen numerous times.
WHITE-WINGED BECARD (Pachyramphus polychopterus) – Plenty of fine studies.
CRESTED BECARD (Pachyramphus validus) – A large becard that we saw a few times well, such as Serra dos Orgaos N.P., where they were actively attending a nest.
Vireonidae (Vireos)
RED-EYED VIREO (MIGRATORY CHIVI) (Vireo olivaceus chivi) – Commonly heard, and seen a time or two.
RUFOUS-CROWNED GREENLET (Hylophilus poicilotis) – Common in lighter forest. [E]
LEMON-CHESTED GREENLET (Hylophilus thoracicus thoracicus) – Brief views at REGUA when we called in a pair.
RUFOUS-BROWED PEPPERSHRIKE (Cyclarhis gujanensis) – A common bird in many parts of the neotropics, and one that you hear much more often than you see!
Corvidae (Crows, Jays, and Magpies)
CURL-CRESTED JAY (Cyanocorax cristatellus) – More a bird of the central Brazilian plateau, but we hit it at the eastern edge of its range, where they seem to occur in small numbers. This beautiful and distinctive jay performed well for us when three came blasting in for us out near Sumidouro.
Hirundinidae (Swallows)
BLUE-AND-WHITE SWALLOW (Pygochelidon cyanoleuca) – The common swallow of the trip, and one that occurs throughout South America.
TAWNY-HEADED SWALLOW (Alopochelidon fucata) – A few out over some cow pastures (!) on our way to Sumidouro.
SOUTHERN ROUGH-WINGED SWALLOW (Stelgidopteryx ruficollis) – Common throughout many parts of South America.
GRAY-BREASTED MARTIN (Progne chalybea) – A few out at Sumidouro.
BROWN-CHESTED MARTIN (Progne tapera) – Browner than the previous species, with a duskier face; also seen out in te drier habitats near Sumidouro.
WHITE-RUMPED SWALLOW (Tachycineta leucorrhoa) – A cleanly marked swallow with a bold white rump, that we had good looks at out over the drier habitats heading towards Sumidouro.
Troglodytidae (Wrens)
LONG-BILLED WREN (Cantorchilus longirostris) – A handsome wren that sneaks around the gardens at the lodge at Tucanos (calling all the while), where we had some nice looks. [E]
HOUSE WREN (Troglodytes aedon) – Yep! Keep track of where you see these though, as they could end up being split one day!
Donacobiidae (Donacobius)
BLACK-CAPPED DONACOBIUS (Donacobius atricapilla) – It was about time that this species got the dignity of being placed into its own, monotypic family, after having been placed with mockingbirds and wrens. Not that the other families aren't dignified, but this one is just so distinctive and attractive! We had nice looks at a group of them in a marsh on our way to Sumidouro.
Turdidae (Thrushes and Allies)
YELLOW-LEGGED THRUSH (Turdus flavipes) – Common, and very vocal, throughout in humid habitats, but not always easy to see as they sing from the canopy. We did see them a few times though.
PALE-BREASTED THRUSH (Turdus leucomelas) – Pretty common in less dense forest and forest edges.
RUFOUS-BELLIED THRUSH (Turdus rufiventris) – All over the gardens at Tucanos!
CREAMY-BELLIED THRUSH (Turdus amaurochalinus) – An attractive thrush, with those throat stripes and yellow eyering, that we saw on most days.
Mimidae (Mockingbirds and Thrashers)
CHALK-BROWED MOCKINGBIRD (Mimus saturninus) – Common along roadsides and other open-country habitats.
Parulidae (New World Warblers)
MASKED YELLOWTHROAT (Geothlypis aequinoctialis) – Seen well out in a marsh at Portao Azul; common in many open habitats in South America.
TROPICAL PARULA (Setophaga pitiayumi) – I think I might have been the only one to get onto this one... but you guys made me list it, right, Joe?!
GOLDEN-CROWNED WARBLER (Basileuterus culicivorus) – Common with forest flocks.
WHITE-BROWED WARBLER (Myiothlypis leucoblepharus) – A pale-plumaged warbler that isn't hard to find with understory flocks in humid forest. [E]
Coerebidae (Bananaquit)
BANANAQUIT (Coereba flaveola) – Now this one could go all sorts of ways, split-wise, so keep track of them! For anybody who has birded the neotropics, this is certainly no stranger!
Thraupidae (Tanagers and Allies)
BROWN TANAGER (Orchesticus abeillei) – Heard by the guides at Serra dos Orgaos N.P., but it wasn't willing to play. [E]
MAGPIE TANAGER (Cissopis leverianus) – A common tanager of second-growth all across the Amazon, and into the Atlantic forests; it also happens to be the longest.
OLIVE-GREEN TANAGER (Orthogonys chloricterus) – Nice to have this endemic right at the feeders at Tucanos, otherwise I can seeing it being a potential tough one to find. [E]
CHESTNUT-HEADED TANAGER (Pyrrhocoma ruficeps) – We made a special effort to find this endemic at a little spot that Cirilo had staked-out, ending up with some brilliant views at it foraged about with a small flock in the understory. [E]
BLACK-GOGGLED TANAGER (Trichothraupis melanops) – A common tanager that we saw numerous times, such as right behind the lodge at Tucanos along the trails.
CHESTNUT-VENTED CONEBILL (Conirostrum speciosum) – Peter had them first along the Cedae trail, but we were lucky to catch up with them a couple of days later out at REGUA.
RUFOUS-HEADED TANAGER (Hemithraupis ruficapilla) – Nice looks at this handsome endemic as it moved with a large canopy along the Theodoros trail. [E]
YELLOW-BACKED TANAGER (Hemithraupis flavicollis) – Some nice views on our last two days at this canopy flock species, such as up along the trails at Tucanos.
FLAME-CRESTED TANAGER (Tachyphonus cristatus) – The male of this species is stunning, and had many fine studies as they moved with the canopy flocks.
RUBY-CROWNED TANAGER (Tachyphonus coronatus) – Common, especially at forest edges, and seen everyday of the trip! [E]
BRAZILIAN TANAGER (Ramphocelus bresilius) – Wow... like electric velvet! This one was a common sight at the banana feeders at the lodge. [E]
SAYACA TANAGER (Thraupis sayaca) – Replaces the Blue-gray Tanager in this part of South America, and seen daily.
AZURE-SHOULDERED TANAGER (Thraupis cyanoptera) – Seen in small numbers on most days, such as at the banana feeders at the lodge. [E]
GOLDEN-CHEVRONED TANAGER (Thraupis ornata) – One of the more handsome birds of the genus, and seen everyday of the trip. [E]
PALM TANAGER (Thraupis palmarum) – When seen well, and in good light, this is quite a fine looking bird... but it rarely gets much credit.
DIADEMED TANAGER (Stephanophorus diadematus) – A high elevation tanager that we had many fine views of up at the Gray-winged Cotinga spot up on Pico da Caledonia.
FAWN-BREASTED TANAGER (Pipraeidea melanonota) [*]
GREEN-HEADED TANAGER (Tangara seledon) – Common in large numbers around the gardens at the lodge, and one of the most brilliantly patterned of the genus... wow! [E]
RED-NECKED TANAGER (Tangara cyanocephala) – Another fancy Atlantic forest tanager that we had fine looks at on most days. I just love the name! [E]
BRASSY-BREASTED TANAGER (Tangara desmaresti) – These tanagers just keep getting better and better... I just can't choose! We had some pretty nice encounters with this beauty! [E]
GILT-EDGED TANAGER (Tangara cyanoventris) – We had our first exhilarating experiences with this, yet again, gaudy species along the Portao Azul road when we spotted a small group at a fruiting tree. [E]
BURNISHED-BUFF TANAGER (Tangara cayana) – Ok, whew... now we can back off on the gaudiness for a moment. While this one is well marked enough (with its peachy tones), it doesn't stack up to the previous four, but we still enjoyed the fine views we had of them on most days.
BLUE DACNIS (Dacnis cayana) – A common bird in many parts of tropical South America.
GREEN HONEYCREEPER (Chlorophanes spiza) – Ditto!
SWALLOW TANAGER (Tersina viridis) – A strange tanager that has sometimes been placed in its own family... we'll see what genetics say! We had them well, in small groups, a few times.
GREEN-WINGED SALTATOR (Saltator similis) – Seen well up on Pico da Caledonia. This is a common cage-bird that the locals capture for its beautiful song.
THICK-BILLED SALTATOR (Saltator maxillosus) – This often hard-to-find saltator performed wonderfully for us up on Pico da Caledonia, perching up for memorable views. [E]
BLACK-THROATED GROSBEAK (Saltator fuliginosus) – The Atlantic forest representative of the Slate-colored Grosbeak, and a handsome bird as well. We had our first good looks at this vocal species along the Theodoros trail one birdy morning! [E]
Emberizidae (Buntings, Sparrows and Allies)
BAY-CHESTED WARBLING-FINCH (Poospiza thoracica) – A very local endemic that entertained us with some spectacular views up on Pico da Caledonia as pairs fed about in the roadside shrubbery. [E]
BLUE-BLACK GRASSQUIT (Volatinia jacarina) – Pretty common out in the pasture growth on our way to Sumidouro.
DOUBLE-COLLARED SEEDEATER (Sporophila caerulescens) – A well-marked Sporophila that inhabits pastures and grassy areas... as many Sporophilas do!
CHESTNUT-BELLIED SEED-FINCH (Oryzoborus angolensis) – We had a female out towards Sumidouro.
SOOTY GRASSQUIT (Tiaris fuliginosus) – Well, I probably shouldn't include this one, but we did see it really well... even if found dead as a crash test dummy behind the dining room!
SAFFRON FINCH (Sicalis flaveola) – Common in any open habitat!
HALF-COLLARED SPARROW (Arremon semitorquatus) – Really nice views at this endemic, closely related to the Orange-billed Sparrow that many of you know, at Portao Azul when we dug one up out of its understory haunts. [E]
GRASSLAND SPARROW (Ammodramus humeralis) – In the dry habitats out towards Sumidouro... sounds like an insect.
RUFOUS-COLLARED SPARROW (Zonotrichia capensis) – Anybody miss it, because I've got plenty in my yard here in Ecuador!?
Cardinalidae (Cardinals and Allies)
RED-CROWNED ANT-TANAGER (Habia rubica) – Diann had the first looks at this understory - and noisy - tanager (well, now cardinal!) at Serra dos Orgaos N.P., but we caught up with them later on in the trip right along the trails behind the lodge.
YELLOW-GREEN GROSBEAK (Caryothraustes canadensis) – One of the most common, and vocal, canopy birds in the lower areas of Serra dos Orgaos N.P. where enjoyed some really nice of this looker!
Icteridae (Troupials and Allies)
CHOPI BLACKBIRD (Gnorimopsar chopi) – A bird of drier and more open country; it is abundant out in Brazil's central plateau, for instance. We had plenty of them during our roadside birding out to Sumidouro.
CHESTNUT-CAPPED BLACKBIRD (Chrysomus ruficapillus) – We scoped them out at a marsh on our way to Sumidouro... a really handsome blackbird indeed.
SHINY COWBIRD (Molothrus bonariensis) – Seen in small numbers on every day of the trip.
GIANT COWBIRD (Molothrus oryzivorus) – And it is large! Yet another icterid that we saw on our way out to Sumidouro.
RED-RUMPED CACIQUE (Cacicus haemorrhous) – Seen first it the lower sector of Serra dos Orgaos N.P. when we called them into close range.
CRESTED OROPENDOLA (Psarocolius decumanus) – Only seen on our last day before heading back to Rio.
Fringillidae (Siskins, Crossbills, and Allies)
PURPLE-THROATED EUPHONIA (Euphonia chlorotica) – Jack and Joe had the first one at the lodge feeders, where it is apparently not a common bird; we all caught up with it a couple of days later there.
VIOLACEOUS EUPHONIA (Euphonia violacea) – One of the area's most common euphonias, and seen on all days.
ORANGE-BELLIED EUPHONIA (Euphonia xanthogaster) – Seen most days, and a common euphonia in many parts of the neotropics.
CHESTNUT-BELLIED EUPHONIA (Euphonia pectoralis) – A common bird at the lodge's banana feeders, and a richly-marked bird. [E]
BLUE-NAPED CHLOROPHONIA (Chlorophonia cyanea) – Stunning as always, and a common feeders bird at Tucanos... nice!
HOODED SISKIN (Spinus magellanicus) – Seen on a couple of days.
Passeridae (Old World Sparrows)
HOUSE SPARROW (Passer domesticus) – Mostly as we drove through towns. [I]
MAMMALS
WHITE-TUFTED-EAR MARMOSET (Callithrix jacchus jacchus) – Finally, a monkey, right at the visitor area at REGUA when we collided with an active group of this attractive species. [E]
GUIANAN SQUIRREL (Sciurus aestuans) – A large squirrel that we on a few days.
CAPYBARA (Hydrochaeris hydrochaeris) – Wallowing in the ponds at REGUA!
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Totals for the tour: 303 bird taxa and 3 mammal taxa