For our tour description, itinerary, past triplists, dates, fees, and more, please VISIT OUR TOUR PAGE.
See this triplist in printable PDF format with media only on page 1.
The exquisite Plovercrest is one of a number of fancy hummers endemic to the Atlantic Forest. (Photo by participant George Nixon)
This continues to be a great short tour for Atlantic Forest birds. We encountered 120 endemics (as coded on this triplist), with but nine of those heard only! The weather was perfect for the entire trip—dry and cool, warming a bit toward the end. Avian highlights were manifold, though the greatest pleasure for me came in sharing those delights with an extraordinary group of folks. You made up one of the finest groups I've ever traveled with.
Andy Foster, owner of the lodge, was our sharp local co-guide this year. Andy spent the past four years in the office booking clients rather than guiding. With daughter Olivia a bit older and Cristina willing, Andy has now determined to do all the guiding himself—a treat for us, indeed, as he's an excellent birder who knows Atlantic Forest birds well and all the locales thoroughly. (There is room for improvement only in taking [meal] orders!) Once again, accommodations and dining were splendid, not to mention desserts and the caiparinhas!
As always, the birds were the stellar performers with highlights ranging from stunning views of Gray-winged Cotinga, roosting Tawny-browed Owls (a first for the tour), a family of Brown Tanagers that won the Quickest-Response Award, a beautiful and most reliable Chestnut-headed Tanager, a smashing pair of White-bearded Antshrikes, and our first SEEN Spotted Bamboowren for the tour; to stunners like Large-tailed Antshrike, fine studies of six Drymophila antbirds, a fabulous encounter with Pale-browed Treehunter, pretty Ochre-breasted and White-browed foliage-gleaners, the delightful, tail-quivering Oustelet’s Tyrannulet, in-your-face Rufous-breasted Leaftossers, megalooks at Hooded Berryeater, Bare-throated Bellbird, and Swallow-tailed Cotingas. While these are all Atlantic Forest endemics, we also had some great encounters with more widespread species that knocked our socks off: like the choreographed pas de deux by Streamer-tailed Tyrants and Black-capped Donacobius, the remarkably friendly Red-legged Seriema that responded to a suggestion rather than playback, a most unusual red morph Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl, and a pair of downright dangerous Giant Antshrikes. When relaxing on the porch at the lodge, the full-time hummer and tanager show at the feeders kept us alert, with or without camera in hand. And a slothful sloth, a parading Black Capuchin, and roaring Brown Howler Monkeys vied for the top non-birding mammal.
I thank Andy, Aldo, the staff, and all of you for contributing fun, class, and genuine mirth to a humdinger of a tour.
--John
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 endemic Slaty-breasted Wood-Rail struts boldly through the gardens of the lodge. (Photo by participant Max Rodel)
BROWN TINAMOU (Crypturellus obsoletus) [*]
TATAUPA TINAMOU (Crypturellus tataupa) – We almost had this one; Aldo saw one cross the road at the Three-toed Jacamar spot. [*]
Anatidae (Ducks, Geese, and Waterfowl)
WHITE-FACED WHISTLING-DUCK (Dendrocygna viduata)
MUSCOVY DUCK (Cairina moschata)
BRAZILIAN TEAL (Amazonetta brasiliensis) – All our ducks were seen at the REGUA wetland.
Cracidae (Guans, Chachalacas, and Curassows)
DUSKY-LEGGED GUAN (Penelope obscura) – Seen our first morning near the beginning of the Portao Azul Track.
Fregatidae (Frigatebirds)
MAGNIFICENT FRIGATEBIRD (Fregata magnificens) – Amassing over Rio!
Phalacrocoracidae (Cormorants and Shags)
NEOTROPIC CORMORANT (Phalacrocorax brasilianus)
Ardeidae (Herons, Egrets, and Bitterns)
COCOI HERON (Ardea cocoi) – Near Rio and one at REGUA.
GREAT EGRET (Ardea alba)
SNOWY EGRET (Egretta thula)
CATTLE EGRET (Bubulcus ibis)
STRIATED HERON (Butorides striata)
WHISTLING HERON (Syrigma sibilatrix)
CAPPED HERON (Pilherodius pileatus) – Two in fine plumage at REGUA.
BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON (Nycticorax nycticorax)
Cathartidae (New World Vultures)
BLACK VULTURE (Coragyps atratus)
TURKEY VULTURE (Cathartes aura)
Accipitridae (Hawks, Eagles, and Kites)
BLACK HAWK-EAGLE (Spizaetus tyrannus) – One seen soaring above the canopy boardwalk at Serra dos Orgaos NP.
SHARP-SHINNED HAWK (RUFOUS-THIGHED) (Accipiter striatus erythronemius) – A bird in flight only.
SAVANNA HAWK (Buteogallus meridionalis)
ROADSIDE HAWK (Rupornis magnirostris)
WHITE-TAILED HAWK (Geranoaetus albicaudatus) – Seen on several days, our first at Caledonia.
SHORT-TAILED HAWK (Buteo brachyurus) – A dark morph see from the Portao Azul Track.
Rallidae (Rails, Gallinules, and Coots)
RUFOUS-SIDED CRAKE (Laterallus melanophaius) – Heard at REGUA—right at our feet! [*]
SLATY-BREASTED WOOD-RAIL (Aramides saracura) – Seen daily at the lodge where a pair hung out at and behind the water feature; some of you saw one feeding at the banana feeder! [E]
ASH-THROATED CRAKE (Porzana albicollis) – Andy spotted this one hiding in the grass not far from Duas Barras. Fairly responsive to playback.
BLACKISH RAIL (Pardirallus nigricans) – Nicely responsive to playback, this rail walked right out of the reeds as it sang.
PURPLE GALLINULE (Porphyrio martinicus) – REGUA.
COMMON GALLINULE (Gallinula galeata)
Charadriidae (Plovers and Lapwings)
SOUTHERN LAPWING (Vanellus chilensis)
Jacanidae (Jacanas)
WATTLED JACANA (Jacana jacana)
Laridae (Gulls, Terns, and Skimmers)
KELP GULL (Larus dominicanus) – The big gull near Rio.
GULL-BILLED TERN (Gelochelidon nilotica) – A few seen near Rio; the Sterna we saw we left unidentified.
Columbidae (Pigeons and Doves)
The legendary White-bearded Antshrike is always among the most exciting finds; this male was inquisitive owing to a presumed interloper. (Photo by co-leader Andy Foster)
PICAZURO PIGEON (Patagioenas picazuro) – The common BiG pigeon in our area.
RUDDY GROUND-DOVE (Columbina talpacoti) – Daily at the lodge.
WHITE-TIPPED DOVE (Leptotila verreauxi)
Cuculidae (Cuckoos)
SQUIRREL CUCKOO (Piaya cayana)
GUIRA CUCKOO (Guira guira) – Only two seen! Can that be?
STRIPED CUCKOO (Tapera naevia) [*]
GREATER ANI (Crotophaga major) – Again, only two! At REGUA.
SMOOTH-BILLED ANI (Crotophaga ani)
Strigidae (Owls)
TAWNY-BROWED OWL (Pulsatrix koeniswaldiana) – WOW. What a surprise finding a pair of roosting Tawny-broweds at REGUA! One bird remained on its perch—while we gawked—before it retreated a bit into more obscure safety. [E]
FERRUGINOUS PYGMY-OWL (Glaucidium brasilianum) – Another nice find at REGUA—this one a rufous morph—only the second time Andy and I have seen this plumage anywhere. Several of you got nice photos. We noticed the lack of barring on the tail, a feature of the rufous morph.
Apodidae (Swifts)
WHITE-COLLARED SWIFT (Streptoprocne zonaris) – The common, default big swift in our area.
BISCUTATE SWIFT (Streptoprocne biscutata) – Andy managed to pick out one among a bunch of White-collareds at Serra dos Orgaos NP. The white shield on the breast of this species is a more reliable feature than the interrupted collar.
SICK'S SWIFT (Chaetura meridionalis) – Seen from the lodge.
GRAY-RUMPED SWIFT (Chaetura cinereiventris) – A few from the lodge and elsewhere, though not as common as usual.
Trochilidae (Hummingbirds)
BLACK JACOBIN (Florisuga fusca) – Delightful!—as were all of the regular hummers swarming the feeders. Seen daily. [E]
SAW-BILLED HERMIT (Ramphodon naevius) – Great studies of this unusual hermit. [E]
REDDISH HERMIT (Phaethornis ruber) – Glimpsed at REGUA.
SCALE-THROATED HERMIT (Phaethornis eurynome) – Several seen about, though none at the feeders. [E]
FRILLED COQUETTE (Lophornis magnificus) – A female glimpsed by some high above the path along the Cedae Track feeding at a flowering tree popular with other hummers. She sat for but a few moments. [E]
BRAZILIAN RUBY (Clytolaema rubricauda) – Another beauty. [E]
GLITTERING-BELLIED EMERALD (Chlorostilbon lucidus) – A smashing hummer of the drier, more open habitats.
PLOVERCREST (EMERALD-CRESTED) (Stephanoxis lalandi lalandi) – WOW. Fabulous looks at males of this species on the Macae de Cima Track. We had seen a few at Pico da Caledonia, though not so well. [E]
SWALLOW-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD (Eupetomena macroura) – Nice views of a bird at a roadside stop near Duas Barras.
VIOLET-CAPPED WOODNYMPH (Thalurania glaucopis) – Males and females daily at the lodge feeders! [E]
SOMBRE HUMMINGBIRD (Aphantochroa cirrochloris) – Ditto. [E]
WHITE-THROATED HUMMINGBIRD (Leucochloris albicollis) – Seen on several trails.
VERSICOLORED EMERALD (Amazilia versicolor) – The small, rather nondescript hummer visiting the lodge feeders.
WHITE-CHINNED SAPPHIRE (Hylocharis cyanus cyanus) – Seen nicely at REGUA. This taxon has a bright coppery rump.
Trogonidae (Trogons)
SURUCUA TROGON (Trogon surrucura) – Fine views of the yellow-bellied morph; heard on numerous occasions. [E]
Momotidae (Motmots)
While not an Atlantic Forest endemic, the Streamer-tailed Tyrant takes the prize annually for best dramatic performance. (Photo by participant George Nixon)
Alcedinidae (Kingfishers)
RINGED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle torquata)
Bucconidae (Puffbirds)
WHITE-EARED PUFFBIRD (Nystalus chacuru) – What attractive, open-country birds! Seen at our first stop en route to Duas Barras.
CRESCENT-CHESTED PUFFBIRD (Malacoptila striata) – Kathe got us on this forest species at the Three-toed Jacamar spot; great study. Heard at REGUA but not seen. [E]
Galbulidae (Jacamars)
THREE-TOED JACAMAR (Jacamaralcyon tridactyla) – Super looks at its six toes! A very local endemic. [E]
RUFOUS-TAILED JACAMAR (SPOT-TAILED) (Galbula ruficauda rufoviridis) – Nice views of a bird at REGUA.
Ramphastidae (Toucans)
SAFFRON TOUCANET (Pteroglossus bailloni) – Cindy got us on a couple of birds upslope at the beginning of the Portao Azul Track. Nice! [E]
SPOT-BILLED TOUCANET (Selenidera maculirostris) – Great looks at a male on the lodge grounds one afternoon; seen again along the Cedae Track. George's most-wanted species on the trip. [E]
CHANNEL-BILLED TOUCAN (ARIEL) (Ramphastos vitellinus ariel) – High upslope at the lodge our first afternoon; heard often.
Picidae (Woodpeckers)
WHITE-BARRED PICULET (Picumnus cirratus) – This miniscule woodpecker was seen well on several occasions. [E]
YELLOW-EARED WOODPECKER (Veniliornis maculifrons) – Seen well on several occasions, our first along the Theodoro Trail. [E]
YELLOW-THROATED WOODPECKER (Piculus flavigula erythropis) – The red-throated yellow-throated Woodpecker! This taxon is endemic to the Atlantic Forest and is likely to be split. [E]
WHITE-BROWED WOODPECKER (Piculus aurulentus) – Another lovely endemic seen along the Portao Azul Track. [E]
GREEN-BARRED WOODPECKER (Colaptes melanochloros) – This "flicker" was seen near Duas Barras.
BLOND-CRESTED WOODPECKER (BLOND-CRESTED) (Celeus flavescens flavescens) – Though not indicated so on our checklist, this beautiful taxon is endemic to the Atlantic Forest, the species limited to southeast Brazil. [E]
Cariamidae (Seriemas)
RED-LEGGED SERIEMA (Cariama cristata) – What a performance having this "half a Rhea" run downslope to meet us before Andy even attempted playback! Now that's a friendly bird.
Falconidae (Falcons and Caracaras)
SOUTHERN CARACARA (Caracara plancus)
YELLOW-HEADED CARACARA (Milvago chimachima)
Psittacidae (Parrots)
MAROON-BELLIED PARAKEET (MAROON-TAILED) (Pyrrhura frontalis frontalis) – Many fine studies of this endemic at the lodge feeders. This subspecies has maroon atop the tail, whereas its conspecific has a yellow wash atop its tail; both are Atlantic Forest endemics. [E]
WHITE-EYED PARAKEET (Aratinga leucophthalma) – First at Serra dos Orgaos; later in drier country near Duas Barras and REGUA.
BLUE-WINGED MACAW (Primolius maracana) – A pair flew over us at an early stop en route to Duas Barras.
BLUE-WINGED PARROTLET (Forpus xanthopterygius) – Excellent study of these tiny parrots near the Serra Antwren spot.
PLAIN PARAKEET (Brotogeris tirica) – Another Atlantic Forest endemic, those found in and around Sao Paulo considered introduced and feral. [E]
This roosting Tawny-browed Owl sat around for a few moments, its mate having bailed at first sight of us. (Photo by participant George Nixon)
ORANGE-WINGED PARROT (Amazona amazonica) – Seen perched and flying at REGUA; these birds have yellow on their faces.
BLUE-BELLIED PARROT (Triclaria malachitacea) – We got close to this one on the trail behind the lodge; it was "singing" right overhead and we failed to find it! [E*]
Thamnophilidae (Typical Antbirds)
SPOT-BACKED ANTSHRIKE (Hypoedaleus guttatus) – DARN. Heard along the Cedae Track, most persistently at the trackhead, but we couldn't lure it into view with playback. [E*]
GIANT ANTSHRIKE (Batara cinerea) – What a thrilling encounter with the pair at Portao Azul! That is one horse of a bird. The nominate taxon is an Atlantic Forest endemic, but another taxon is found in Bolivia, another in northwestern Argentina.
LARGE-TAILED ANTSHRIKE (Mackenziaena leachii) – This starry, starry night was of the highlights of the trip! Seen on several occasions on Caledonia and heard along the Portao Track and in Serra dos Orgaos NP. [E]
TUFTED ANTSHRIKE (Mackenziaena severa) – This stinker was heard only along the Portao Azul Track; I think it may have been nesting, as it was so quiet throughout our tour. [E*]
WHITE-BEARDED ANTSHRIKE (Biatas nigropectus) – WOW. Unbeatable views of a pair along the Macae de Cima Road; this is one of the most storied birds of the Atlantic Forest and still very poorly known. [E]
RUFOUS-CAPPED ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus ruficapillus ruficapillus) [*]
CHESTNUT-BACKED ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus palliatus) – A good-looking Thamnophilus; seen at REGUA.
SOORETAMA SLATY-ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus ambiguus) – Seen very nicely at REGUA; this antshrike is very localized, occurring only in the extreme lowlands of the Atlantic Forest. [E]
VARIABLE ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus caerulescens caerulescens) – Seen and heard on multiple days.
SPOT-BREASTED ANTVIREO (Dysithamnus stictothorax) – This mixed-flock leader was seen along the Cedae Track our last morning. [E]
PLAIN ANTVIREO (Dysithamnus mentalis mentalis) – More widespread than its congener.
RUFOUS-BACKED ANTVIREO (Dysithamnus xanthopterus) – Unfortunately, this antvireo was heard only. [E*]
STAR-THROATED ANTWREN (Myrmotherula gularis) – Seen along the Theodoro Trail. [E]
WHITE-FLANKED ANTWREN (SILVERY-FLANKED) (Myrmotherula axillaris luctuosa) – Seen well on several occasions at REGUA; this taxon is likely to be elevated to specific status. [E]
UNICOLORED ANTWREN (Myrmotherula unicolor) – Seen best in the lower part of Serra dos Orgaos NP; high for this lowland endemic. [E]
RUFOUS-WINGED ANTWREN (Herpsilochmus rufimarginatus rufimarginatus) – Heard at Orgaos NP and at REGUA, but showed little interest in playback. This, the nominate taxon is endemic to the Atlantic Forest and is subject to being elevated to species status. [E*]
SERRA ANTWREN (Formicivora serrana interposita) – Great looks, finally, at this fine-looking antwren; the male of this taxon is virtually black on the back. [E]
FERRUGINOUS ANTBIRD (Drymophila ferruginea) – Super views along the Theodoro Trail; some of you got fine pix! The first, phylogenetically speaking, of six distinctive taxa of Drymophila, all endemic to the Atlantic Forest. Ferruginea is the only one without a raspy, or harsh, voice. [E]
BERTONI'S ANTBIRD (Drymophila rubricollis) – Seen best along the Theodoro Trail. [E]
RUFOUS-TAILED ANTBIRD (Drymophila genei) – Another beauty, this one the highest ranging of the group; nice views on Caledonia. [E]
OCHRE-RUMPED ANTBIRD (Drymophila ochropyga) – Seen well along the Macae de Cima Road. [E]
DUSKY-TAILED ANTBIRD (Drymophila malura) – Also along the Macae de Cima Road. [E]
SCALED ANTBIRD (Drymophila squamata) – Seen nicely on the trail behind the lodge; thanks to George for getting everyone on it with the laser. [E]
STREAK-CAPPED ANTWREN (Terenura maculata) – Seen on several occasions; the only Terenura in the Atlantic Forest. [E]
WHITE-SHOULDERED FIRE-EYE (Pyriglena leucoptera) – Heard often, but seen only between Duas Barras and Sumidouro. [E]
WHITE-BIBBED ANTBIRD (Myrmeciza loricata) – What a lovely bird! We worked hard to see this one, but we finally had great studies as it poked and hopped around in the leaf litter at REGUA. [E]
Conopophagidae (Gnateaters)
RUFOUS GNATEATER (Conopophaga lineata) – Seen on our Caledonia day; Elinor and I had great views of a male as the two of us walked down the steep track in advance of the group. [E]
BLACK-CHEEKED GNATEATER (Conopophaga melanops) – Excellent views behind the lodge and at Serra dos Orgaos NP. [E]
Grallariidae (Antpittas)
VARIEGATED ANTPITTA (Grallaria varia) [*]
Rhinocryptidae (Tapaculos)
SPOTTED BAMBOOWREN (Psilorhamphus guttatus) – Wow! The first time one of our groups has seen this aberrant tapaculo on the tour; heretofore, it was heard only. Ours gave us trouble at the White-bearded Antshrike spot along the Macae de Cima Road. [E]
SLATY BRISTLEFRONT (Merulaxis ater) – Another great endemic! We had superb views of a female along the Theodoro Trail; her "bristles" did not escape detection. [E]
SERRA DO MAR TAPACULO (Scytalopus notorius) – We just never got close to one at Caledonia. [E*]
Formicariidae (Antthrushes)
SHORT-TAILED ANTTHRUSH (Chamaeza campanisona campanisona) – Heard along the Cedae Track. [*]
A male Saw-billed Hermit serenades us from his song perch. (Photo by participant Max Rodel)
RUFOUS-TAILED ANTTHRUSH (Chamaeza ruficauda) – Seen well just off the Macae de Cima Road as it walked about countersinging to playback. [E]
Furnariidae (Ovenbirds and Woodcreepers)
TAWNY-THROATED LEAFTOSSER (ATLANTIC) (Sclerurus mexicanus bahiae) – Great views of a pair along the canopy boardwalk at Serra dos Orgaos NP; very responsive. [E]
RUFOUS-BREASTED LEAFTOSSER (Sclerurus scansor scansor) – Great views along the Theodoro Trail; another endemic that was not marked as such on your checklist. [E]
OLIVACEOUS WOODCREEPER (OLIVACEOUS) (Sittasomus griseicapillus sylviellus) – The most frequently encountered woodcreeper; this distinctive taxon will be split. [E]
PLAIN-BROWN WOODCREEPER (PLAIN-WINGED) (Dendrocincla fuliginosa turdina) – Another taxon that will be split; we had superb views along the trail at REGUA after getting a quick look (near the sloth!) at Serra dos Orgaos. [E]
PLANALTO WOODCREEPER (Dendrocolaptes platyrostris) – A big woodcreeper seen nicely along the trail at the lodge. [E]
WHITE-THROATED WOODCREEPER (Xiphocolaptes albicollis) – The largest woodcreeper on the tour; what a fine vocalization! what a big bill! [E]
LESSER WOODCREEPER (LESSER) (Xiphorhynchus fuscus fuscus) – Seen well in the lower part of Orgaos NP. [E]
BLACK-BILLED SCYTHEBILL (Campylorhamphus falcularius) – After hearing it on a couple of preceding days, Kathe spotted one for us along the Macae de Cima Road for fabulous views. [E]
SCALED WOODCREEPER (SCALED) (Lepidocolaptes squamatus squamatus) – Seen well en route to Duas Barras. [E]
STREAKED XENOPS (Xenops rutilans) – Seen on several days.
WING-BANDED HORNERO (Furnarius figulus) – Seen best as a pair vocalized right in front of us on the Sumidouro day where we had the Tawny-headed Swallow and Chestnut-capped Blackbird. [E]
RUFOUS HORNERO (Furnarius rufus)
SHARP-TAILED STREAMCREEPER (Lochmias nematura nematura) – Beautifully seen in response to playback along the Theodoro Trail. Though it was heard a couple of time along the river at the lodge, we never managed to see it. The nominate Brazilian taxon is much easier to see than the two taxa found in the Andes.
WHITE-COLLARED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Anabazenops fuscus) – Doggone. Not responsive to playback, which I found unusual. [E*]
PALE-BROWED TREEHUNTER (Cichlocolaptes leucophrus leucophrus) – Fantastic encounter with a responsive bird along the canopy boardwalk at Orgaos NP. [E]
SHARP-BILLED TREEHUNTER (Heliobletus contaminatus) – Nice looks at two birds along the Theodoro Trail; quite xenops-like in appearance. [E]
OCHRE-BREASTED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Philydor lichtensteini) – A pair seen very well along the Cedae Track; this is the only place we ever see this endemic on the tour. [E]
BLACK-CAPPED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Philydor atricapillus) – Several seen in the lower part of Orgaos NP with a mixed-species flock. A pretty foliage-gleaner. [E]
BUFF-FRONTED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Philydor rufum) – A widespread Philydor and the commonest in our area.
WHITE-BROWED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Anabacerthia amaurotis) – Great looks along the canopy walkway at Orgaos. [E]
BUFF-BROWED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Syndactyla rufosuperciliata) – Also seen at Orgaos NP.
WHITE-EYED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Automolus leucophthalmus) – A smart-looking foliage-gleaner seen along the trail behind the lodge; heard on other occasions. [E]
RUFOUS-FRONTED THORNBIRD (Phacellodomus rufifrons) – Seen en route to Sumidouro; plus lots of its big stick nests.
ORANGE-EYED THORNBIRD (Phacellodomus erythrophthalmus) – Seen along the Portao Azul Track; sneaky peeks. [E]
FIREWOOD-GATHERER (Anumbius annumbi) – A pair seen on top of their nest out of Duas Barras.
ITATIAIA SPINETAIL (Asthenes moreirae) – Two seen well by intrepid birders who went up the steps at Pico da Caledonia with Andy—Andy, who managed to get them into view whereas an advance group missed them. Well done. [E]
PALLID SPINETAIL (Cranioleuca pallida) – Seen along the Portao Azul Track and at Sao Bernardo where he had the Seriema and the Swallow-tailed Cotingas. [E]
YELLOW-CHINNED SPINETAIL (Certhiaxis cinnamomeus) – Seen in open country beyond Duas Barras where we had the Ash-throated Crake.
RUFOUS-CAPPED SPINETAIL (Synallaxis ruficapilla) – Another pretty spinetail, this one seen best along the Portao Azul Track. [E]
This bold Red-legged Seriema seemed anxious to get a closer look at us, giving us a close look in the process! (Photo by participant Max Rodel)
SPIX'S SPINETAIL (Synallaxis spixi) – One of the four spinetails seen along the Portao Azul Track.
Tyrannidae (Tyrant Flycatchers)
SOUTHERN BEARDLESS-TYRANNULET (Camptostoma obsoletum) – Seen on a couple of days, first in the lower part of Orgaos NP.
YELLOW TYRANNULET (Capsiempis flaveola) – Seen best our first morning along the Portao Azul Track. This, the nominate taxon, is entirely yellow below (without white throat) and is disjunct from Amazonian populations and almost entirely restricted to southeastern Brazil.
YELLOW-BELLIED ELAENIA (Elaenia flavogaster)
OLIVACEOUS ELAENIA (Elaenia mesoleuca) [*]
WHITE-CRESTED TYRANNULET (Serpophaga subcristata) – Seen along the Portao Azul Track, but perhaps best at Sao Bernardo.
OCHRE-BELLIED FLYCATCHER (Mionectes oleagineus)
GRAY-HOODED FLYCATCHER (Mionectes rufiventris) – This endemic tyrannid was seen well on several occasions. [E]
SEPIA-CAPPED FLYCATCHER (Leptopogon amaurocephalus) – Seen best at REGUA.
MOTTLE-CHEEKED TYRANNULET (Phylloscartes ventralis) – Seen along the Theodoro Trail and Macae de Cima Road.
OUSTALET'S TYRANNULET (Phylloscartes oustaleti) – A fabulous tail-shaking endemic; seen extremely well along the Theodoro Trail and the Cedae Track. [E]
SERRA DO MAR TYRANNULET (Phylloscartes difficilis) – Seen very nicely along the Caledonia Track. [E]
PLANALTO TYRANNULET (Phyllomyias fasciatus) – Seen on several days, the first along the Portao Azul Track.
GRAY-CAPPED TYRANNULET (Phyllomyias griseocapilla) – Most numerous along the Portao Azul Track. [E]
SOUTHERN ANTPIPIT (Corythopis delalandi) – This little guy gave us fits at REGUA; seen for but a moment by George and John.
EARED PYGMY-TYRANT (Myiornis auricularis) – This mite was encountered on several days.
DRAB-BREASTED PYGMY-TYRANT (Hemitriccus diops) – Seen along the Portao Track and the Theodoro Trail, but it proved difficult to get a completely satisfying view. [E]
EYE-RINGED TODY-TYRANT (Hemitriccus orbitatus) – Seen very well at REGUA. [E]
HANGNEST TODY-TYRANT (Hemitriccus nidipendulus) – Seen well along the Portao Azul Track in bright sunlight; also in shade at the Serra Antwren spot. [E]
OCHRE-FACED TODY-FLYCATCHER (Poecilotriccus plumbeiceps) – Seen well along the Portao Track, its flatulent call heard frequently elsewhere.
GRAY-HEADED TODY-FLYCATCHER (Todirostrum poliocephalum) – Seen nicely on the lodge grounds late in the PM. [E]
YELLOW-OLIVE FLYCATCHER (SOORETAMA) (Tolmomyias sulphurescens sulphurescens) – This tyrannid with the harsh vocalization will be split from other "Yellow-olives." Encountered almost daily, this species is easily seen at the lodge. [E]
YELLOW-BREASTED FLYCATCHER (Tolmomyias flaviventris) – Mostly heard only at REGUA, though I think Andy saw one.
WHITE-THROATED SPADEBILL (Platyrinchus mystaceus) – Seen by George, "by George," and heard along the Theodoro Trail.
WHISKERED FLYCATCHER (YELLOW-RUMPED) (Myiobius barbatus mastacalis) – Seen by some near Duas Barras. [E]
BRAN-COLORED FLYCATCHER (Myiophobus fasciatus) – Seen on several occasions, our first along the Portao Track.
EULER'S FLYCATCHER (EULER'S) (Lathrotriccus euleri euleri) – This Empidonax-like tyrannid was seen well, first along the Portao Track; the nominate taxon is a "partial migrant" into Amazonia.
BLUE-BILLED BLACK-TYRANT (Knipolegus cyanirostris) – Seen along the Caledonia Track.
CRESTED BLACK-TYRANT (Knipolegus lophotes) – Glimpsed at a distance by Andy and George at our first stop on the Duas Barras-Sumidouro day, flying before most of us could get on it.
VELVETY BLACK-TYRANT (Knipolegus nigerrimus) – A distinctive female seen by those who ventured up the steps at Pico da Caledonia. [E]
YELLOW-BROWED TYRANT (Satrapa icterophrys) – Seen nicely out of Duas Barras.
WHITE-RUMPED MONJITA (Xolmis velatus) – From a distance on our Duas Barras-Sumidouro day; another tyrannid that didn't stay around for a long viewing.
STREAMER-TAILED TYRANT (Gubernetes yetapa) – What a performance! Truly extraordinary birds! Some of you got terrific photos. A real highlight.
SHEAR-TAILED GRAY TYRANT (Muscipipra vetula) – Nice views of this endemic tyrannid along Portao and Caledonia tracks. [E]
Now this is the way to see Pale-browed Treehunter—from the canopy walkway at Serra dos Orgaos NP. (Photo by participant George Nixon)
WHITE-HEADED MARSH TYRANT (Arundinicola leucocephala) – Seen well at REGUA.
LONG-TAILED TYRANT (Colonia colonus) – Seen several times, first along the Portao Azul Track.
CATTLE TYRANT (Machetornis rixosa) – Seen at the lodge and occupying Rufous Hornero nests on our Duas Barras-Sumidouro day.
GRAY-HOODED ATTILA (Attila rufus) – Seen well; a pleasant wake-up call each morning at the lodge. [E]
SHORT-CRESTED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus ferox) – A widespread Myiarchus.
GREAT KISKADEE (Pitangus sulphuratus) – Daily at the lodge.
BOAT-BILLED FLYCATCHER (Megarynchus pitangua) – Heard on several occasions; seen at Sao Bernardo.
SOCIAL FLYCATCHER (Myiozetetes similis) – Daily at the lodge.
STREAKED FLYCATCHER (Myiodynastes maculatus)
TROPICAL KINGBIRD (Tyrannus melancholicus)
FORK-TAILED FLYCATCHER (Tyrannus savana) – Seen near Duas Barras.
Oxyruncidae (Sharpbill)
SHARPBILL (Oxyruncus cristatus) – Great looks along the Theodoro Trail—right where Andy said they would be! Now placed in a monotypic family! Can't you still hear their bombardier whistles?
Cotingidae (Cotingas)
HOODED BERRYEATER (Carpornis cucullata) – A marvelous encounter with a bird at close range along the canopy walkway, Serra dos Orgaos! A super endemic to the Atlantic Forest. [E]
BLACK-AND-GOLD COTINGA (Tijuca atra) – Another super endemic! Ornithologist Ernest J. Holt, who explored Itatiaia in the 1930s, called this bird the Saudade due to its unforgettable voice, which he said invoked "memory imbued with longing"! Not bad. [E]
GRAY-WINGED COTINGA (Tijuca condita) – WOW. The rarest of the endemics we saw on the tour. A super cotinga to see so well; we had one in the scope to enjoy on Pico da Caledonia. [E]
BARE-THROATED BELLBIRD (Procnias nudicollis) – What a great bird, as well. This endemic we had heard long before we saw it; and then we saw it, along Macae de Cima, at glorious close range! [E]
SWALLOW-TAILED COTINGA (SWALLOW-TAILED) (Phibalura flavirostris flavirostris) – What a fancy bird! Five seen very well at Sao Bernardo (after glimpsing three at Caledonia). [E]
Pipridae (Manakins)
SERRA DO MAR TYRANT-MANAKIN (Neopelma chrysolophum) – Seen briefly along the Portao Azul Track where we had the Giant Antshrikes. Not too responsive. [E]
PIN-TAILED MANAKIN (Ilicura militaris) – Seen along the Theodoro Trail and heard quite a few times elsewhere. [E]
WHITE-BEARDED MANAKIN (Manacus manacus) – Mostly females but a few males.
SWALLOW-TAILED MANAKIN (Chiroxiphia caudata) – Seen along the Theodoro Trail, but heard almost daily elsewhere. [E]
Tityridae (Tityras and Allies)
GREENISH SCHIFFORNIS (Schiffornis virescens) – Good looks along the Macae de Cima Road near the Bellbird spot. [E]
SHRIKE-LIKE COTINGA (BRAZILIAN) (Laniisoma elegans elegans) – We couldn't get this "Elegant Mourner" to respond to playback. [E*]
GREEN-BACKED BECARD (Pachyramphus viridis) – A male seen well along the Portao Track.
CHESTNUT-CROWNED BECARD (Pachyramphus castaneus) – Also seen along the Portao Track and elsewhere.
WHITE-WINGED BECARD (Pachyramphus polychopterus) – Heard only, at REGUA. [*]
Vireonidae (Vireos)
RED-EYED VIREO (MIGRATORY CHIVI) (Vireo olivaceus chivi) [*]
RUFOUS-CROWNED GREENLET (Hylophilus poicilotis) – A nice-looking bird; seen first along the Portao Track. [E]
LEMON-CHESTED GREENLET (Hylophilus thoracicus thoracicus) – Seen at REGUA where it attempted to evade our gaze. This nominate taxon, widely disjunct from Amazonian taxa, is limited in range to only a small part of the Atlantic Forest and is likely to be split. [E]
RUFOUS-BROWED PEPPERSHRIKE (Cyclarhis gujanensis) – Seen and heard almost daily.
Corvidae (Crows, Jays, and Magpies)
CURL-CRESTED JAY (Cyanocorax cristatellus) – Seen at a distance at our first stop on the Duas Barras Road. A fine jay!
Hirundinidae (Swallows)
BLUE-AND-WHITE SWALLOW (Pygochelidon cyanoleuca) – Almost daily.
Brassy-breasted Tanager is one of several endemic members of the colorful genus Tangara, all of them strikingly beautiful and readily seen. (Photo by participant George Nixon)
SOUTHERN ROUGH-WINGED SWALLOW (Stelgidopteryx ruficollis)
BROWN-CHESTED MARTIN (Progne tapera) – Two posed nicely for us on the utility wire on the Duas Barras Road where we had the Serra Antwren.
WHITE-RUMPED SWALLOW (Tachycineta leucorrhoa) – Seen in the dry country near Duas Barras.
Troglodytidae (Wrens)
HOUSE WREN (Troglodytes aedon) – Daily. [N]
MOUSTACHED WREN (Pheugopedius genibarbis) – Seen very well at REGUA, along with Long-billed.
LONG-BILLED WREN (Cantorchilus longirostris) – What a long bill! The male that has been hanging around the lodge for the past four years would only show himself to George. [E]
Donacobiidae (Donacobius)
BLACK-CAPPED DONACOBIUS (Donacobius atricapilla) – Their correographed duets are delightful!
Turdidae (Thrushes and Allies)
YELLOW-LEGGED THRUSH (Turdus flavipes) – Almost daily.
PALE-BREASTED THRUSH (Turdus leucomelas) – Almost daily; a pair was nesting at the lodge. [N]
RUFOUS-BELLIED THRUSH (Turdus rufiventris) – Daily. The national bird of Brazil!?!
CREAMY-BELLIED THRUSH (Turdus amaurochalinus) – Seen often.
WHITE-NECKED THRUSH (Turdus albicollis albicollis) – A pair seen well at Sao Bernardo. [E]
Mimidae (Mockingbirds and Thrashers)
CHALK-BROWED MOCKINGBIRD (Mimus saturninus)
Motacillidae (Wagtails and Pipits)
YELLOWISH PIPIT (Anthus lutescens) [*]
Parulidae (New World Warblers)
GOLDEN-CROWNED WARBLER (Basileuterus culicivorus) – Seen often.
WHITE-BROWED WARBLER (Myiothlypis leucoblephara) – Great views of this pretty warbler along Theodoro and Cedae. [E]
Thraupidae (Tanagers and Allies)
This endemic Brown Tanager was among a family that responded to playback with unsurpassed alacrity, astonishing us all. (Photo by participant George Nixon)
CINNAMON TANAGER (Schistochlamys ruficapillus) – Two seen near Sao Bernardo; handsome.
MAGPIE TANAGER (Cissopis leverianus) – Several seen well.
OLIVE-GREEN TANAGER (Orthogonys chloricterus) – A scarce endemic, but one we got to see very well, both at the lodge feeders and at the head of the Cedae Track. [E]
CHESTNUT-HEADED TANAGER (Pyrrhocoma ruficeps) – One of my favorite endemics. A male seen very well near Sao Bernardo. [E]
BLACK-GOGGLED TANAGER (Trichothraupis melanops) – Seen almost daily.
FLAME-CRESTED TANAGER (Tachyphonus cristatus) – A striking tanager, especially when its crest is raised. Seen at Orgaos and REGUA.
RUBY-CROWNED TANAGER (Tachyphonus coronatus) – Daily. [E]
BRAZILIAN TANAGER (Ramphocelus bresilius) – Almost daily; what a looker, that male! [E]
SAYACA TANAGER (Thraupis sayaca)
AZURE-SHOULDERED TANAGER (Thraupis cyanoptera) – This pretty Thraupis was seen well in the forest and on the lodge feeders. [E]
GOLDEN-CHEVRONED TANAGER (Thraupis ornata) – Another nice Thraupis seen frequently. [E]
PALM TANAGER (Thraupis palmarum) – Regular at the lodge.
DIADEMED TANAGER (Stephanophorus diadematus) – Common and seen multiple times on Caledonia.
FAWN-BREASTED TANAGER (Pipraeidea melanonota melanonota) – A quick one seen near Sumidouro.
BURNISHED-BUFF TANAGER (STRIPE-BELLIED) (Tangara cayana chloroptera) – This taxon may be split from the disjunct, non-stripe-bellied form, which looks quite different. Often seen on the lodge feeders. [E]
GREEN-HEADED TANAGER (Tangara seledon) – A colorful endemic Tangara. [E]
RED-NECKED TANAGER (Tangara cyanocephala) – Another colorful, endemic Tangara. [E]
BRASSY-BREASTED TANAGER (Tangara desmaresti) – Another colorful, endemic Tangara. [E]
GILT-EDGED TANAGER (Tangara cyanoventris) – An especially pretty, endemic Tangara. Those Tangaras are beautiful tanagers. [E]
SWALLOW TANAGER (Tersina viridis) – Males and females seen on several occasions.
BLUE DACNIS (Dacnis cayana)
GREEN HONEYCREEPER (Chlorophanes spiza) – A male here and there.
RUFOUS-HEADED TANAGER (Hemithraupis ruficapilla) – A pretty Hemithraupis: "half of a tanager"! [E]
YELLOW-BACKED TANAGER (Hemithraupis flavicollis insignis) – This Hemithraupus almost attacked the recorder at Orgaos NP! [E]
CHESTNUT-VENTED CONEBILL (Conirostrum speciosum) – Seen near Sumidouro and at REGUA.
UNIFORM FINCH (Haplospiza unicolor) – A male was visiting the corn feeder at the lodge; also seen along the Theodoro Trail. [E]
BAY-CHESTED WARBLING-FINCH (Poospiza thoracica) – What a beautiful finch! Seen extemely well on Caledonia, where George got a great photo. [E]
SAFFRON FINCH (Sicalis flaveola) – About.
BLUE-BLACK GRASSQUIT (Volatinia jacarina) – Seen in the drier country on the Sumidouro day.
DOUBLE-COLLARED SEEDEATER (Sporophila caerulescens) – Also on the Sumidouro day, near Duas Barras.
BANANAQUIT (Coereba flaveola) – Daily at the lodge hummer feeders.
GREEN-WINGED SALTATOR (Saltator similis) – Seen along the Portao Track; heard elsewhere.
BUFF-THROATED SALTATOR (Saltator maximus)
BLACK-THROATED GROSBEAK (Saltator fuliginosus) – A responsive male, its big red bill seen gleaming in the early morning light, was seen well along the Cedae Track. [E]
Emberizidae (Buntings and New World Sparrows)
HALF-COLLARED SPARROW (Arremon semitorquatus) – A fine-looking sparrow! Seen well along the Duas Barras Road at the Serra Antwren spot. [E]
RUFOUS-COLLARED SPARROW (Zonotrichia capensis)
Cardinalidae (Cardinals and Allies)
RED-CROWNED ANT-TANAGER (Habia rubica) – Seen in the lower part of Serra dos Orgaos NP.
Icteridae (Troupials and Allies)
CHESTNUT-CAPPED BLACKBIRD (Chrysomus ruficapillus) – A handsome blackbird.
SHINY COWBIRD (Molothrus bonariensis) – Almost daily at the lodge.
RED-RUMPED CACIQUE (Cacicus haemorrhous) – See nesting in the lower part of Orgaos. [N]
The endemic Bay-chested Warbling-Finch is a lovely addition to the highlands of Rio. (Photo by participant George Nixon)
Fringillidae (Siskins, Crossbills, and Allies)
PURPLE-THROATED EUPHONIA (Euphonia chlorotica) – Heard at REGUA. [*]
VIOLACEOUS EUPHONIA (Euphonia violacea) – Daily at the lodge feeders.
GREEN-THROATED EUPHONIA (Euphonia chalybea) – Darn; we never connected with those we heard. [E*]
ORANGE-BELLIED EUPHONIA (Euphonia xanthogaster) – Regular at the lodge feeders.
CHESTNUT-BELLIED EUPHONIA (Euphonia pectoralis) – Good looks at both sexes on the lodge feeders. [E]
BLUE-NAPED CHLOROPHONIA (Chlorophonia cyanea) – A beauty! Daily on the lodge feeders.
HOODED SISKIN (Spinus magellanicus) – Seen close to the Serra Antwren spot.
Passeridae (Old World Sparrows)
HOUSE SPARROW (Passer domesticus)
MAMMALS
WHITE-TUFTED-EAR MARMOSET (Callithrix jacchus jacchus) – A small troop seen at REGUA. [E]
BROWN HOWLER MONKEY (Alouatta fuscus) – Critically endangered. this howler was seen and heard along the Portao Azul Track. Not marked as endemic on your checklist. [E]
BLACK CAPUCHIN (Cebus nigritus) – Seen in Orgaos NP. [E]
BROWN-THROATED THREE-TOED SLOTH (Bradypus variegatus) – George spotted this guy in the lower part of Orgaos NP.
GUIANAN SQUIRREL (Sciurus aestuans) – The common Sciurus, frequently visiting the lodge feeders.
CAPYBARA (Hydrochaeris hydrochaeris) – Seen at REGUA.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Totals for the tour: 290 bird taxa and 6 mammal taxa