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What a difference good weather can make! We had a glorious morning for looking for Yellow-eared Parrots, and several dozen parrots cooperated over the course of our visit to Jardin, providing fabulous views of a species that numbers fewer than a 1000. (Photo by guide Richard Webster)
After a rainy start, the weather was largely good, at least meaning not very wet, and we were able to complete our zig-zag route up the Cauca Valley with excellent birding results in both the Western and Central Andes.
Our first morning around Buga produced the first two endemics: Grayish Piculet and Apical Flycatcher. We then moved to our most remote location, Cerro Montezuma, where Leopoldina and her family hosted us for two nights. Fortunately the road was intact (which is not to say smooth or fast!), and we were able to make it to the top, and see several specialties for which we had just the one chance, Chestnut-bellied Flowerpiercer and Munchique Wood-Wren, along with a fine showing by the spectacular Gold-ringed Tanager. Unfortunately, we hit a rainy patch, and birding was difficult thereafter, although we did see some good birds, including Crested Ant-Tanager, Glistening-green and Purplish-mantled tanagers, Black Solitaire, Parker's Antbird, and our first three tapaculos (of nine seen eventually). Leopoldina's hummingbird feeders were busy with Empress Brilliants, White-tailed Hillstars, and Purple-throated Woodstars among the throng.
Otun-Quimbaya was drier, and we enjoyed some spectacular big birds, Cauca Guan and Red-ruffed Fruitcrow being the main attractions, with Andean Motmots and Collared Trogons delightful to see as well, and there were some smaller specialties, such as the endemic Multicolored Tanager, which was seen unusually well.
Manizales was our base for visiting Parque Nacional Los Nevados and for spending two nights at Rio Blanco. Los Nevados had good weather (no rain) that was bad weather (much wind), and we missed some birds, but did find the Bearded Helmetcrest along with Tawny Antpitta and several lovely tanagers. New hummingbird feeders were a huge hit, with great views of many species we often only glimpse, such as Black-thighed and Golden-breasted pufflegs, Great Sapphirewing, and Rainbow-beared Thornbill.
Rio Blanco was good, which doesn't mean we didn't miss some birds like Masked Saltator, but there are so many good birds there that any visit is too short. The antpitta feeding program went extremely well, with four species seen: Brown-banded, Bicolored, Chestnut-crowned, and Slate-crowned. Other specialties included Dusky Piha, Powerful Woodpecker, Red-hooded Tanager, Black-billed Mountain-Toucan, and a bonus roosting male Swallow-tailed Nightjar. There was often good activity, and we saw several excellent flocks, as well as skulkers like Flammulated and Striped treehunters.
A long drive up the Cauca Valley took us first to ProAves' Las Tangaras reserve, then to Jardin. At Las Tangaras we enjoyed birding along the track and on a lovely trail through the cloud forest, the list including many specialties of the montane Choco: more Black-and-gold Tanagers and Black Solitaires, plus Choco Vireo in the canopy, Orange-breasted Fruiteater in good view, Indigo Flowerpiercer, Toucan Barbet, Black-chinned Mountain-Tanager, and Yellow-collared Chlorophonia. The hummingbird feeders were also good, with especially fine views of Violet-tailed Sylph and Velvet-purple Coronet.
Our visit to the lovely town of Jardin started with a walk from the town to a lek of Andean Cocks-of-the-rock, where we had animated males at very close range. Our history with Yellow-eared Parrot had not been great, but we reversed that majorly, with a very unusual clear morning and views of parrots in flight overhead and perched at distance, followed by a chance encounter with foraging parrots in the afternoon, and then the next morning transits by a flock of 47 at another feeding area!!! The sunny weather did not help with birding otherwise, but we still saw some memorable birds, including Tanager Finch, White-capped Tanager, a very cooperative Spillman's Tapaculo, more Powerful Woodpeckers, and a Sword-billed Hummingbird at a feeder.
One night outside of Medellin allowed for a morning visit to a regional park where Stiles's Tapaculo and Colombian Chachalaca were new, we had our best views of Red-bellied Grackle, one of the finest endemics, and we were very lucky with the seldom-seen Yellow-headed Manakin.
Our final major stop was ProAves' Piha reserve (RNA AA), where we enjoyed the busy feeders in the yard, and spent two mornings on excellent trails in the forest. The Chestnut-capped Piha was a tough find, but find it we did, and we had additional views of the missable Multicolored Tanager. Birding in the forest was slow, and the Chestnut Wood-Quail feeder did not work this year for us, but some of the birds were exciting (like Lanceolated Monklet), and we found others in patches along the road (White-mantled Barbet. We finished with a flourish, a terrific large flock that included the newly-described subspecies of Foothill Elaenia and Scarlet-and-white Tanager.
By the end we had seen many threatened species, including 1 Critically Endangered, 6 Endangered, 17 Vulnerable, and 9 Near Threatened. That we saw so many is because of important conservation efforts accompanied by ecotourism infrastructure; that there are so many is because conservation efforts are so greatly needed, in Colombia and everywhere.
All of this was accomplished thanks to the arrangements of Daniel and Maggie and the help of many hosts and guides in Colombia, including Leopoldina, Celene, Luz, Uberney, Daisy, Gustavo, Jose, and Norely, with special mention of Olegario getting us safely from one end to the other (plus some expert 4WD drivers).
Taxonomy tries to follow Clements (Cornell). Conservation information is drawn from the publications of BirdLife International. Apologies are due to the Spanish language for the omission of various symbols that do not translate well across different computer platforms.
--Richard
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)
LITTLE TINAMOU (Crypturellus soui) – Heard our first morning near Buga. [*]
Anatidae (Ducks, Geese, and Waterfowl)
BLACK-BELLIED WHISTLING-DUCK (Dendrocygna autumnalis) – Seen by some from a moving bus on our first day.
FULVOUS WHISTLING-DUCK (Dendrocygna bicolor) – Nice looks at one at the Cameguadua ponds.
Gold-ringed Tanager is one of the prizes of the montane Choco. We had repeated excellent views of this striking endemic during our morning on the higher slopes of Cerro Montezuma (before the rain set in!). (Photo by participant Fred Dalbey)
BLUE-WINGED TEAL (Anas discors) – Common at the Cameguadua ponds. [b]
ANDEAN TEAL (Anas andium) – A half dozen were on a paramo pool at PN Los Nevados. As split from the southern Yellow-billed group.
RUDDY DUCK (ANDEAN) (Oxyura jamaicensis ferruginea) – We saw a male at the Cameguadua ponds, and (quite an elevation difference) another on a paramo pond at PN Los Nevados. Note the subspecies of this southern form.
Cracidae (Guans, Chachalacas, and Curassows)
COLOMBIAN CHACHALACA (Ortalis columbiana) – Seen (and heard) first at La Romera, then at close range coming for food in the yard at Reserva de las Aves Arrierito Antioqueno (RNA AA). As split from the widespreadSpeckled Chachalaca. [E]
CAUCA GUAN (Penelope perspicax) – A "yard bird" at Otun-Quimbaya (who cares if the power comes and goes, that is a great yard!); additional good views in the nearby forest. It is considered "Endangered" with a population of 250-1,000. [E]
WATTLED GUAN (Aburria aburri) – Heard distantly at Otun-Quimbaya, and several times at RNA AA, where we invited them to come, but they declined, as best we could tell. It is considered "Near Threatened." [*]
SICKLE-WINGED GUAN (Chamaepetes goudotii) – Fred spotted our first on our arrival at Rio Blanco, where good views, and we were to have more than average encounters there, RNA Las Tangaras, and RNA AA.
Odontophoridae (New World Quail)
CHESTNUT WOOD-QUAIL (Odontophorus hyperythrus) – We had several chances, and never had a view, hearing them at four locations, trying some playback at Otun-Quimbaya, and the gave the wood-quail feeder at RNA AA two long tries, but Jose had warned us that there had been fewer sightings recently at the feeder, and we had none in close to three hours of patient viewing on two tries. It is considered "Near Threatened." [E*]
Podicipedidae (Grebes)
LEAST GREBE (Tachybaptus dominicus) – At the Cameguadua ponds.
PIED-BILLED GREBE (Podilymbus podiceps) – Ditto, including two broods of medium-sized young.
Phalacrocoracidae (Cormorants and Shags)
The genus Bangsia is a challenge, and Black-and-gold Tanager, a Colombian endemic, lives in the montane Choco, where we found it on Cerro Montezuma and at RNA Las Tangaras. (Photo by participant Greg Griffith)
Ardeidae (Herons, Egrets, and Bitterns)
FASCIATED TIGER-HERON (Tigrisoma fasciatum) – An uncommon bird of montane streams, not regularly seen on this tour. We had good views of an adult that Daniel spotted above our lodge at RNA Las Tangaras.
COCOI HERON (Ardea cocoi) – A couple of sightings en route.
GREAT EGRET (Ardea alba) – A few here and there along the way, plus at the Cameguadua ponds.
SNOWY EGRET (Egretta thula) – Ditto.
LITTLE BLUE HERON (Egretta caerulea) – Several at the Cameguadua ponds.
CATTLE EGRET (Bubulcus ibis) – Nearly daily, often in pastures, even to moderate elevations.
STRIATED HERON (Butorides striata) – Some good views at the Cameguadua ponds.
BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON (Nycticorax nycticorax) – A few adults at the same ponds.
Threskiornithidae (Ibises and Spoonbills)
BARE-FACED IBIS (Phimosus infuscatus) – Widespread and fairly common in wet pastures and wetlands throughout the Cauca Valley.
BUFF-NECKED IBIS (Theristicus caudatus) – Our first morning near Buga, where unfortunately heard only. [*]
Cathartidae (New World Vultures)
BLACK VULTURE (Coragyps atratus) – Common in disturbed areas throughout.
TURKEY VULTURE (Cathartes aura) – Never abundant, but equally widespread as Black.
Accipitridae (Hawks, Eagles, and Kites)
SWALLOW-TAILED KITE (Elanoides forficatus) – Fred spotted one of this beauty flying over the forest at RNA AA.
DOUBLE-TOOTHED KITE (Harpagus bidentatus) – One soaring above RNA Las Tangaras.
ROADSIDE HAWK (Rupornis magnirostris) – Several seen and a few more heard, our best perhaps at Morro Amarillo.
As you will see, the compiler of this list likes brush-finches, and they look great, and we saw many well enough for photos like this, of Gray-striped (part of the former Stripe-headed) Brush-Finch, which was joining antpittas for worms at Rio Blanco. (Photo by participant Greg Griffith)
SHORT-TAILED HAWK (Buteo brachyurus) – One over the Cock-of-the-Rock lek, and another higher above Jardin the next day.
Rallidae (Rails, Gallinules, and Coots)
RUSSET-CROWNED CRAKE (Anurolimnas viridis) – We usually hear more from the deep grass at RNA AA than we did this year; we have yet to see one of this really tough bird on this tour. [*]
BLACKISH RAIL (Pardirallus nigricans) – Heard distantly at Cameguadua. [*]
PURPLE GALLINULE (Porphyrio martinicus) – A scattered few around the Cameguadua marshes.
COMMON GALLINULE (Gallinula galeata) – Common at the same spot.
AMERICAN COOT (Fulica americana) – A resident bird at Cameguadua, near the southern end of its range. F. a. columbiana.
Aramidae (Limpkin)
LIMPKIN (Aramus guarauna) – One seen from a moving bus.
Recurvirostridae (Stilts and Avocets)
BLACK-NECKED STILT (Himantopus mexicanus) – Ten at the Cameguadua ponds.
Charadriidae (Plovers and Lapwings)
SOUTHERN LAPWING (Vanellus chilensis) – A few were seen in pastures along the way, it was common at the Cameguadua ponds, and there were a few noisy birds outside our windows at Jardin (less noisy than the roosters).
KILLDEER (Charadrius vociferus) – One at Cameguadua on 11 February was unusual, apparently a very southerly northern migrant bird (versus the resident populations farther south in South America).
Scolopacidae (Sandpipers and Allies)
SPOTTED SANDPIPER (Actitis macularius) – Common at Cameguadua, wintering birds also seen along the Torrent Duck's home on the Rio Otun. [b]
Not a specialty of the tour, but one of the special experiences of the tour: Visiting the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock lek near Jardin, where we were wonderfully close to many energized males (getting ready for the females, who will start visiting later in the season). (Photo by participant Fred Dalbey)
Columbidae (Pigeons and Doves)
ROCK PIGEON (Columba livia) – Widespread in towns, including the one that walked into our breakfast cafeteria in Jardin. [I]
PALE-VENTED PIGEON (Patagioenas cayennensis) – Several encounters around the lower slopes of the Cauca Valley.
BAND-TAILED PIGEON (WHITE-NECKED) (Patagioenas fasciata albilinea) – Common at Rio Blanco, where displaying and singing; also at several other birding spots, especially around Jardin.
PLUMBEOUS PIGEON (Patagioenas plumbea chapmani) – A forest pigeon, heard at Cerro Montezuma and RNA Las Tangaras. [*]
RUDDY PIGEON (Patagioenas subvinacea) – Another forest pigeon, heard at RNA AA. It is considered "Vulnerable" (which seems odd for a bird with a huge range and seems regular). [*]
RUDDY GROUND-DOVE (Columbina talpacoti) – A few in open country at lower elevations, i.e., where we birded least.
WHITE-TIPPED DOVE (Leptotila verreauxi) [*]
WHITE-THROATED QUAIL-DOVE (Zentrygon frenata) – Heard in the forest at RNA Las Tangaras, where one was flushed after hearing it, undoubtedly this species, but not really identified visually. [*]
LINED QUAIL-DOVE (Zentrygon linearis) – Singing fairly close to us during the wood-quail feeder watch, but it would not respond to playback. [*]
EARED DOVE (Zenaida auriculata) – Widespread in open areas at lower elevations, often seen from a moving vehicle.
Cuculidae (Cuckoos)
SQUIRREL CUCKOO (Piaya cayana) – Uncommon in the upper elevation forests we frequented; seen several times, including at Rio Blanco and RNA Las Tangaras.
There are always a few bonuses, and this roosting male Swallow-tailed Nightjar was a super bonus at Rio Blanco. (Photo by participant Fred Dalbey)
SMOOTH-BILLED ANI (Crotophaga ani) – Common in disturbed areas at lower elevations.
Strigidae (Owls)
TROPICAL SCREECH-OWL (Megascops choliba) [*]
WHITE-THROATED SCREECH-OWL (Megascops albogularis) – Heard very well at Rio Blanco, and seen departing from a perch, but unfortunately no binocular views. [*]
CLOUD-FOREST PYGMY-OWL (Glaucidium nubicola) – Heard at RNA Las Tangaras on both days, and one seemed somewhat responsive to playback, but it never came really close (in any event, we never did see it!). It is considered "Near Threatened." [*]
Caprimulgidae (Nightjars and Allies)
RUFOUS-BELLIED NIGHTHAWK (Lurocalis rufiventris) – It was a gloriously clear morning at the Yellow-eared Parrot site, and our first bird flying over before sunrise was one of this "shearwater" of a nighthawk; good views as it obtained a last meal before sunrise.
BAND-WINGED NIGHTJAR (Systellura longirostris) – A couple of folks saw one that flushed at dawn in front of one vehicle.
SWALLOW-TAILED NIGHTJAR (Uropsalis segmentata) – One of the trip highlights, and a real bonus. Greg spotted a roosting male in the undergrowth at Rio Blanco, and we had terrific views. It took some figuring out (versus Lyre-tailed), further confirmed from the photographs. Not rare, but rarely seen without much nighttime effort and not so well as on a close day roost.
Apodidae (Swifts)
CHESTNUT-COLLARED SWIFT (Streptoprocne rutila) – Identifiable, but less than enthralling views at Rio Blanco and RNA Las Tangaras.
WHITE-COLLARED SWIFT (Streptoprocne zonaris) – Several encounters, first at Rio Blanco, and perhaps best a large flock over the Cock-of-the-Rock lek.
Trochilidae (Hummingbirds)
WHITE-NECKED JACOBIN (Florisuga mellivora) – Lovely views at the feeders at Cerro Montezuma and RNA AA.
GREEN HERMIT (Phaethornis guy) – Quick views for about half of the group on Morro Amarillo.
A great photo because it captures the use of a flowerpiercer hole in the flower, used by the short-billed Wedge-billed Hummingbird to get the goods; a seldom-photographed bird at Rio Blanco. (Photo by participant Greg Griffith)
GREEN-FRONTED LANCEBILL (Doryfera ludovicae) – A couple were seen perched along the cascade at the photo spot at RNA Las Tangaras, and another was at the waterfall at RNA AA (this species thrives along forested watercourses).
WEDGE-BILLED HUMMINGBIRD (Schistes geoffroyi) – An uncommon species we don't always see. Our first was a regular visitor to a garden at Rio Blanco, and the second was a quick view on Morro Amarillo.
BROWN VIOLETEAR (Colibri delphinae) – One was a periodic visitor to the feeders at RNA AA; an uncommon species, not always seen on this route.
GREEN VIOLETEAR (Colibri thalassinus) – Small numbers were around the lodge at Rio Blanco and a couple more were seen above Jardin.
BLACK-THROATED MANGO (Anthracothorax nigricollis) – One female was seen near Buga and another was a regular visitor to the feeders at Cerro Montezuma.
TOURMALINE SUNANGEL (Heliangelus exortis) – Seen on Cerro Montezuma, in the lodge garden at Rio Blanco, and commonly above Jardin (feeders and flowers).
SPECKLED HUMMINGBIRD (Adelomyia melanogenys) – One at Otun-Quimbaya was followed by a couple in the garden at Rio Blanco.
LONG-TAILED SYLPH (Aglaiocercus kingii) – Fewer than normal, with just a couple in the lodge garden at Rio Blanco.
VIOLET-TAILED SYLPH (Aglaiocercus coelestis) – Fabulous views of this fabulous Choco specialty, seen best at the feeders at Cerro Montezuma and RNA Las Tangaras.
RAINBOW-BEARDED THORNBILL (Chalcostigma herrani) – Seen quickly on the scrub slopes of PN Los Nevados, then again at the Los Termales feeders, where it was shy and not a cooperative photographic subject--but it was great to see it at all.
BEARDED HELMETCREST (Oxypogon stuebelii) – The fog was quite thick for photography, but Daniel located a perched bird that provided good views at PN Los Nevados. "Bearded Helmetcrest" has been split four ways, Clements maintaining the common name for this one of the four, which is called Buffy Helmetcrest on other lists. It is considered "Vulnerable," with a population of 250 to 1,000.
TYRIAN METALTAIL (Metallura tyrianthina) – A couple were seen in treeline scrub above Jardin.
VIRIDIAN METALTAIL (Metallura williami) – Our usual quick views were greatly improved at the Los Termales feeders, where this high-elevation species was fairly common and tame.
GREENISH PUFFLEG (Haplophaedia aureliae) – Not a dramatic species, but an uncommon one in many areas. However, on this tour route it seems common in the forest at RNA Las Tangaras and RNA AA, and a couple were even coming to feeders at the former.
BLACK-THIGHED PUFFLEG (Eriocnemis derbyi) – A real specialty that we have previously seen briefly, but the new feeders were a terrific place to admire it at length, which we happily did. It is considered "Near Threatened."
This Yellow-headed Manakin was a prize for a second year near Medellin, perched silently inside the forest. (Photo by participant Greg Griffith)
SHINING SUNBEAM (Aglaeactis cupripennis) – Same feeders, several perching at length, although none with bright rump feathers.
BRONZY INCA (Coeligena coeligena) – Several were in a garden at the lower end of Rio Blanco, and a couple more were seen at La Romera.
BROWN INCA (Coeligena wilsoni) – This Choco endemic was not coming to feeders, but we eventually had good looks at birds in the wild on Cerro Montezuma and, especially, RNA Las Tangaras.
COLLARED INCA (Coeligena torquata) – This striking bird of the Andes was seen first on the upper part of Cerro Montezuma, then at Rio Blanco and above Jardin.
BUFF-WINGED STARFRONTLET (Coeligena lutetiae) – Another nice addition at the Los Termales feeders, an uncommon forest species that we have not always seen, let alone so well.
MOUNTAIN VELVETBREAST (Lafresnaya lafresnayi) – One was visiting the Los Termales feeders, and another was seen above Jardin.
SWORD-BILLED HUMMINGBIRD (Ensifera ensifera) – A bonus on our Yellow-eared Parrot morning was a male coming to the feeders at the ranch house where we enjoyed breakfast.
GREAT SAPPHIREWING (Pterophanes cyanopterus) – A spectacular show at the Termales feeders, with up to five hovering at once, and repeated great views of males and females perched nearby.
BUFF-TAILED CORONET (Boissonneaua flavescens) – After one on upper Cerro Montezuma, common at Rio Blanco, where dominating the lodge feeders (and wonderfully tame and photogenic, but they are thugs), and again above Jardin.
VELVET-PURPLE CORONET (Boissonneaua jardini) – This Choco endemic is one of the beauties of a stunning family. We admired them at Leopoldina's feeders and again at Las Tangaras; in small numbers at both spots, but very cooperative.
BOOTED RACKET-TAIL (Ocreatus underwoodii) – We saw them at the feeders at Cerro Montezuma, in the wild at Otun-Quimbaya, at the feeders at Las Tangaras, and finally a male bathing in the wet moss of a small cascade at RNA AA; never common, but repeated good views.
WHITE-TAILED HILLSTAR (Urochroa bougueri) – Constantly around the Cerro Montezuma feeders, where frequently coming under the awning; also seen once at RNA Las Tangaras. We saw the nominate form ("Rufous-gaped").
PURPLE-BIBBED WHITETIP (Urosticte benjamini) – A couple were occasional visitors to Leopoldina's feeders at Cerro Montezuma; great views of both the gorget and the "odd" white spot on the tail.
FAWN-BREASTED BRILLIANT (Heliodoxa rubinoides) – Several were coming to one set of feeders at Rio Blanco.
GREEN-CROWNED BRILLIANT (Heliodoxa jacula) – Just a few at the Cerro Montezuma feeders, but it was common at the RNA AA feeders, and we eventually saw several in the forest there.
EMPRESS BRILLIANT (Heliodoxa imperatrix) – Another endemic of the Choco, we had great studies of both sexes at the feeders on Cerro Montezuma and at RNA Las Tangaras. Wow!
WHITE-BELLIED WOODSTAR (Chaetocercus mulsant) – Just two, seen at Rio Blanco.
PURPLE-THROATED WOODSTAR (Calliphlox mitchellii) – These avian helicopters were common at the feeders on Cerro Montezuma, with lesser numbers (but still good views) at RNA Las Tangaras, above Jardin, and RNA AA.
WESTERN EMERALD (Chlorostilbon melanorhynchus melanorhynchus) – This black-billed emerald was seen, mostly at garden flowers, not feeders, at our lodges on Cerro Montezuma and at Otun-Quimbaya, and again on Morro Amarillo.
WHITE-VENTED PLUMELETEER (Chalybura buffonii) – Quick views of one near Buga and another near Bolombolo (the wren spot).
Empress Brilliant is difficult to enjoy (or often even to find) in the wild, but at feeders like Leopoldina's one can appreciate the full beauty of this endemic of the Choco. (Photo by participant Fred Dalbey)
ANDEAN EMERALD (Amazilia franciae) – This lovely hummer was one of the more widespread, seen at four of our stops.
STEELY-VENTED HUMMINGBIRD (Amazilia saucerrottei) – A few along the way always seemed like a little bit of an ID challenge, but at RNA AA, where they were common at the feeders, the field marks were easily seen and the beauty enjoyed (in the right light, they really glisten).
RUFOUS-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD (Amazilia tzacatl) – In small numbers at several of our lower elevation feeders.
Trogonidae (Trogons)
GOLDEN-HEADED QUETZAL (Pharomachrus auriceps) – Quetzals have been getting tougher on this tour (too many birders with playback, ourselves included?), but we eventually landed one at RNA Las Tangaras, and had good views of the fine plumage. Others were heard there, at Rio Blanco, and above Jardin.
CRESTED QUETZAL (Pharomachrus antisianus) – Heard at RNA Las Tangaras, but not responsive. [*]
COLLARED TROGON (Trogon collaris) – We had good views at Otun-Quimbaya (T. c. subtropicalis, a mid-montane subspecies) and again at RNA AA.
MASKED TROGON (Trogon personatus assimilis) – We enjoyed this subspecies of middle elevations in the Western Andes, first at Cerro Montezuma, next at RNA Las Tangaras.
MASKED TROGON (Trogon personatus temperatus) – We had two encounters at Rio Blanco; this is an upper montane subspecies of the Central Andes into Ecuador. Splits are likely in Masked Trogon, but the situation is complicated and will require detailed study.
Momotidae (Motmots)
ANDEAN MOTMOT (Momotus aequatorialis) – As split from Blue-crowned. We started with fabulous views at Otun-Quimbaya, and enjoyed them again at Rio Blanco, La Romera, and (heard) RNA AA.
Alcedinidae (Kingfishers)
RINGED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle torquata) – A couple near Buga and another on the utility wires at the Cameguadua ponds.
Bucconidae (Puffbirds)
MOUSTACHED PUFFBIRD (Malacoptila mystacalis) – We only heard this species at RNA AA (never easy, but we have often seen it). [*]
LANCEOLATED MONKLET (Micromonacha lanceolata) – Not a regional specialty, but always a prize, and thanks to Jose's fabulous spotting, we saw a responsive bird at RNA AA.
Capitonidae (New World Barbets)
WHITE-MANTLED BARBET (Capito hypoleucus) – This endemic was very responsive, although it took a while, during an afternoon trip below RNA AA. It is considered "Vulnerable" with a population of 1,500 to 7,000 birds. [E]
White-mantled Barbet is more reliable on the Bogotoa and Magdalena Valley tour, but we often see it on this one, here near RNA AA. (Photo by participant Greg Griffith, who had seen it on the other tour, but was quite happy to get a photo here!)
Semnornithidae (Toucan-Barbets)
TOUCAN BARBET (Semnornis ramphastinus) – This Choco specialty is now treated as a monotypic family in between New World Barbets and Toucans, its common name proven genetically to be completely appropriate. After hearing them at Cerro Montezuma, we enjoyed good views twice at RNA Las Tangaras. It is considered "Near Threatened."
Ramphastidae (Toucans)
EMERALD TOUCANET (Aulacorhynchus prasinus) – We had nice views of A. p. griseigularis in the Central Andes at Otun-Quimbaya, Rio Blanco, and La Romera. This form appears on some lists as Gray-throated Toucanet.
CRIMSON-RUMPED TOUCANET (Aulacorhynchus haematopygus) – We saw one nicely on Cerro Montezuma, and heard more at several other spots.
BLACK-BILLED MOUNTAIN-TOUCAN (Andigena nigrirostris) – Not a common bird, but we have often done better. After hearing a couple, we eventually saw one at Rio Blanco and then above Jardin, but in both cases the bird was high above us, and not the easy, close view we wanted.
Picidae (Woodpeckers)
OLIVACEOUS PICULET (Picumnus olivaceus) – A favorite family of Ron's, and while we saw a variety and some fancy ones, woodpeckers are not a common subject in the upper montane forests of the Andes (indeed, less numerous than in the woods behind many of our homes). This tiny woodpecker was seen with a mixed flock our last morning at RNA AA.
One of our first endemics, Grayish Piculet is an interesting taxon that lives close to Olivaceous Piculet, but has not been reported hybridizing with it. (Photo by participant Greg Griffith)
RED-CROWNED WOODPECKER (Melanerpes rubricapillus) – Scattered, seen regularly in our occasional birding at lower elevations and disturbed areas.
SMOKY-BROWN WOODPECKER (Picoides fumigatus) – Singles were seen at Otun-Quimbaya and RNA AA, also heard at RNA Las Tangaras.
YELLOW-VENTED WOODPECKER (Veniliornis dignus) – Often a rare bird in the Andes, Yellow-vented seems relatively common in Colombia. We had good views at Cerro Montezuma, RNA Las Tangaras, and above Jardin.
GOLDEN-OLIVE WOODPECKER (Colaptes rubiginosus) – Several seen, and others heard in mid-elevation forests.
CRIMSON-MANTLED WOODPECKER (Colaptes rivolii) – Occurring at higher elevations than Golden-olive, we saw several of this stunning woodpecker at Rio Blanco. Both species were formerly placed in the genus Piculus, but are now recognized as flickers.
SPOT-BREASTED WOODPECKER (Colaptes punctigula) – Genetically also shown to be a flicker. We saw two of this lowland species on the valley floor at Cameguadua.
POWERFUL WOODPECKER (Campephilus pollens) – We had two encounters with this uncommon big woodpecker, first at Rio Blanco (distractingly during an antpitta feeding session), then above Jardin, where a responsive pair was seen well.
CRIMSON-CRESTED WOODPECKER (Campephilus melanoleucos) – Two were seen near Buga our first morning, and another was at Otun-Quimbaya.
Falconidae (Falcons and Caracaras)
RED-THROATED CARACARA (Ibycter americanus) – A family group made several appearance at RNA AA, seen from the yard right on our arrival; groups have large territories, and we don't always cross paths with them here.
CRESTED CARACARA (Caracara cheriway) – One fly-by for some folks while driving to the forest at RNA Las Tangaras.
YELLOW-HEADED CARACARA (Milvago chimachima chimachima) – Common in open areas at lower elevations; regularly seen from the bus.
LAUGHING FALCON (Herpetotheres cachinnans) – A perched bird was seen by one vehicle as we left Cerro Montezuma.
AMERICAN KESTREL (Falco sparverius) – A few in open or disturbed areas, including a male on Morro Amarillo that had caught a Rufous-collared Sparrow!
BAT FALCON (Falco rufigularis) – Greg spotted one at RNA AA that was perched on a snag above the forest canopy.
Psittacidae (New World and African Parrots)
RUSTY-FACED PARROT (Hapalopsittaca amazonina) – An uncommon and difficult species, we were fortunate to have fairly good views of a flock that landed at Rio Blanco. Telescope views were brief and they were somewhat distant, but the light was good. Often missed entirely or just heard as fly-bys, this was a welcome encounter. H. a. velezi. It is considered "Vulnerable," with a population of 2,500 to 10,000.
SPECKLE-FACED PARROT (Pionus tumultuosus) – Several fly-bys were seen from the Yellow-eared Parrot vista point.
BLUE-HEADED PARROT (Pionus menstruus) – Common near Buga our first morning; two more at the Cameguadua ponds.
BRONZE-WINGED PARROT (Pionus chalcopterus) – It was unusual to not see this species at all, and especially to hear it only once. [*]
Chestnut-crowned Antpitta was one of four antpittas we enjoyed thanks to the incredible amount of work done to attract them at Rio Blanco. (Photo by participant Ron Majors)
GOLDEN-PLUMED PARAKEET (Leptosittaca branickii) – Several encounters with this difficult bird, first a flock in transit at Otun-Quimbaya, then a couple of flocks at Rio Blanco, where some perched for quick telescope views, and another flock was seen below eye level against a dark background. Not great, but good enough, and better than average. It is considered "Vulnerable," with a population of 1,500 to 7,000.
YELLOW-EARED PARROT (Ognorhynchus icterotis) – On the subject of better than average, how about the best yet (for a species that has often been frustratingly poorly seen)? We had three good encounters, first on a lovely early morning above Jardin, with repeated flyovers and distant perched birds, then, that afternoon, several birds feeding at close range, not in great light for photography, but fabulous in the telescope; and again the next morning at Morro Amarillo, where 47 made several transits overhead, calling loudly. It is considered "Endangered," with a population of about 1,000, but perhaps as few as 200 mature, breeding individuals.
Thamnophilidae (Typical Antbirds)
RUFOUS-RUMPED ANTWREN (Euchrepomis callinota) – After several typical canopy flock experiences at Cerro Montezuma and RNA Las Tangaras, at the Piha Reserve we had an eye-level bird showing its (gasp) rufous rump very well. Formerly placed in Terenura, genetic studies have shown that a new genus was needed for what is one of the ancient lineages of antbirds.
GREAT ANTSHRIKE (Taraba major) [*]
BAR-CRESTED ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus multistriatus) – Our best views came at the Cameguadua ponds, where both the interestingly different male and female were seen well. Technically, not an endemic now, after being found in adjacent Venezuela.
BLACK-CROWNED ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus atrinucha) – We saw a pair in the dry woodlands during our wren search. a.k.a. Western Slaty-Antshrike.
UNIFORM ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus unicolor) – Good views of a pair in the understory at RNA Las Tangaras, with another the next day.
PLAIN ANTVIREO (Dysithamnus mentalis) – A couple of quick encounters at RNA AA, where others were heard.
SLATY ANTWREN (Myrmotherula schisticolor) – A pair was with a mixed flock at Otun-Quimbaya, and we had a very responsive pair at RNA AA, the male erecting white tufts and approaching closely.
YELLOW-BREASTED ANTWREN (Herpsilochmus axillaris) – Seen with a couple of canopy flocks at RNA Las Tangaras. It is considered "Vulnerable."
STREAK-HEADED ANTBIRD (Drymophila striaticeps) – We tried to see a couple of pairs at Rio Blanco, eventually seeing one bird in the bamboo. Part of the split of Long-tailed Antbird.
PARKER'S ANTBIRD (Cercomacra parkeri) – We had good views of a responsive pair at Cerro Montezuma, and then heard more at Morro Amarillo (not responsive) and RNA AA. [E]
JET ANTBIRD (Cercomacra nigricans) – Good views of a responsive bird near Buga our first morning.
Conopophagidae (Gnateaters)
CHESTNUT-CROWNED GNATEATER (Conopophaga castaneiceps) – Variable views at RNA AA; after a slow response, a male became very responsive, but it was quick, and views ranged from great to brief.
Grallariidae (Antpittas)
UNDULATED ANTPITTA (Grallaria squamigera) – Several were heard at distance above Jardin. [*]
MOUSTACHED ANTPITTA (Grallaria alleni) – A couple were heard at Otun-Quimbaya. It is considered "Vulnerable." [*]
CHESTNUT-CROWNED ANTPITTA (Grallaria ruficapilla) – Tainted slightly by being one of the more widespread and common antpittas, it is nonetheless a gorgeous animal, and we had great views of birds being fed at Rio Blanco, part of that wonderful antpitta experience in Manizales' watershed reserve.
Bicolored Antpitta is an extra difficult antpitta to see in the forest, so the relative ease with which we saw one coming for worms at Rio Blanco was wonderful, though not predictable. (Photo by participant Greg Griffith)
CHESTNUT-NAPED ANTPITTA (Grallaria nuchalis) – Heard at Rio Blanco, where it has not ever been reliable for long at the worm sessions; a couple of attempts to call one in were not productive; also heard above Jardin. [*]
YELLOW-BREASTED ANTPITTA (Grallaria flavotincta) – A responsive bird at RNA Las Tangaras sang at close range for a long time, and then was seen briefly by several as it moved by.
RUFOUS ANTPITTA (Grallaria rufula) – Heard at PN Los Nevados, and again above Jardin, where it was close in the thick growth, but not seen at all. [*]
TAWNY ANTPITTA (Grallaria quitensis) – Good views in the paramo of PN Los Nevados.
BROWN-BANDED ANTPITTA (Grallaria milleri) – The endemic star of the Rio Blanco antpitta program. We had good views, and enjoyed the tameness, as one bird approached within a meter of Carol, who was seated quietly. It is considered "Vulnerable," with a population of 1,500 to 7,000 individuals. [E]
SLATE-CROWNED ANTPITTA (Grallaricula nana) – One has been reliably coming for worms at Rio Blanco for several years now, and we enjoyed excellent views of this small antpitta. Also heard above Jardin.
Rhinocryptidae (Tapaculos)
OCELLATED TAPACULO (Acropternis orthonyx) – Ahh, fate. The one tapaculo everyone really wants to see was the one that did not show at all. We had a shouting match with a pair at Rio Blanco, and had an individual respond above Jardin and come very close, but not a feather was seen while moving vegetation was seen. Sorry. [*]
ASH-COLORED TAPACULO (Myornis senilis) – Mostly heard at Rio Blanco, where one was glimpsed by a couple of people, but was marginal at best.
BLACKISH TAPACULO (Scytalopus latrans) – Many were heard at Rio Blanco and above Jardin; at Rio Blanco, one responsive bird was seen by about two-thirds of the group, well by some.
WHITE-CROWNED TAPACULO (Scytalopus atratus confusus) – At the Piha reserve we found a responsive bird that was seen quite well, even the white crown by some. Note the subspecies; further splits are likely in this widespread taxon.
CHOCO TAPACULO (Scytalopus chocoensis) – Variable views, but seen by all and well by most in the roadside vegetation on lower Cerro Montezuma, and heard at length.
STILES'S TAPACULO (Scytalopus stilesi) – This recently-described species was heard at Otun-Quimbaya, then seen well outside of Medellin, and heard again at RNA AA. [E]
NARIO TAPACULO (Scytalopus vicinior) – We had good views of one on Cerro Montezuma, and then heard more at RNA Las Tangaras.
SPILLMANN'S TAPACULO (Scytalopus spillmanni) – Perhaps the finest performer of our many cooperative tapaculos, above Jardin this bird even flew slowly through the group twice!
PARAMO TAPACULO (Scytalopus opacus) – It took a while to find a responsive bird at PN Los Nevados, but we eventually had two move quickly through open areas on a scrubby slope, and better views were had by the few who did not let other birds distract them!
TAPACULO (NEW SPECIES) (Scytalopus sp. nov. 1) – We had good views of one along the track on Cerro Montezuma, and heard more there and at RNA Las Tangaras. Sounding much like Stiles's and occuring at similar elevations in the Western Andes, this population is under study by Colombian ornithologists. It is often called "Alto de Pisones Tapaculo" in birder literature, named for a locality from which it is known.
Formicariidae (Antthrushes)
We had a great year for seeing Yellow-eared Parrot, our best ever, partly because of a better road, especially because of good weather, plus a little luck. (Photo by participant Greg Griffith)
Furnariidae (Ovenbirds and Woodcreepers)
OLIVACEOUS WOODCREEPER (Sittasomus griseicapillus) – One was seen at RNA AA.
TYRANNINE WOODCREEPER (Dendrocincla tyrannina) – Primarily heard at Rio Blanco, where it was seen briefly by Daniel and glimpsed in flight by others, treated as heard only. [*]
STRONG-BILLED WOODCREEPER (Xiphocolaptes promeropirhynchus) – We had very nice views of this huge woodcreeper at Otun-Quimbaya.
COCOA WOODCREEPER (Xiphorhynchus susurrans) – Seen well in semi-deciduous woodland near Buga, and heard in even drier woodland near Bolombolo.
OLIVE-BACKED WOODCREEPER (Xiphorhynchus triangularis) – Seen regularly with mixed flocks in mid-montane forest at Cerro Montezuma, RNA Las Tangaras, and RNA AA.
BROWN-BILLED SCYTHEBILL (Campylorhamphus pusillus) – Quick views for some of one with a mixed flock at RNA AA, competing for attention with Multicolored Tanager and some other fine birds! Another was heard, but would not respond.
MONTANE WOODCREEPER (Lepidocolaptes lacrymiger) – A regular traveler with canopy mixed flocks, e.g., at Rio Blanco.
PLAIN XENOPS (Xenops minutus) – Tyrrell pointed out one below the Piha reserve as we were on our way out.
STREAKED XENOPS (Xenops rutilans) – Paul spotted our first with a flock at Otun-Quimbaya; seen again at Rio Blanco and RNA AA.
BUFFY TUFTEDCHEEK (Pseudocolaptes lawrencii) – Seen first on Cerro Montezuma, and again well at RNA Las Tangaras. We saw P. l. johnsoni, endemic to the montane Choco, a potential split, e.g., as on the IOC list as Pacific Tuftedcheek.
STOUT-BILLED CINCLODES (Cinclodes excelsior) – We saw one alongside the bus in PN Los Nevados.
BUFF-FRONTED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Philydor rufum) – With mixed flocks at several spots; with time, seen better and better by all, especially at RNA AA.
SCALY-THROATED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Anabacerthia variegaticeps) – Also with mixed flocks, first on Cerro Montezuma, then at RNA Las Tangaras.
MONTANE FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Anabacerthia striaticollis) – Two at Otun-Quimbaya were followed by nice views of one on Morro Amarillo.
LINEATED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Syndactyla subalaris) – After brief views of a challenging bird at RNA Las Tangaras, we had better views of an unusually cooperative bird at RNA AA.
This White-headed Wren at RNA Las Tangaras was working on a nest. (Photo by participant Greg Griffith)
UNIFORM TREEHUNTER (Thripadectes ignobilis) – We had fairly good views (well, good views for this tough bird) of a responsive bird on Cerro Montezuma. Another Choco specialty.
FLAMMULATED TREEHUNTER (Thripadectes flammulatus) – We had excellent views of this uncommon, skulking treehunter at Rio Blanco; a bit of a prize.
STRIPED TREEHUNTER (Thripadectes holostictus) – Good views of a responsive bird at Rio Blanco.
STREAK-CAPPED TREEHUNTER (Thripadectes virgaticeps) – One responded at Otun-Quimbaya; not that we didn't miss some other ovenbirds, but a four-treehunter tour is an unusual event, with all four seen well.
SPOTTED BARBTAIL (Premnoplex brunnescens) – After one got away at Las Tangaras, most had good views just after getting off the bus at La Romera.
PEARLED TREERUNNER (Margarornis squamiger) – This beauty was enjoyed with mixed flocks at PN Los Nevados, Rio Blanco, and above Jardin.
RED-FACED SPINETAIL (Cranioleuca erythrops) – Frequent by voice, we had regular sightings with flocks at four stops on the tour.
AZARA'S SPINETAIL (Synallaxis azarae) – Heard at most stops, we had sightings at Otun-Quimbaya and La Romera.
PALE-BREASTED SPINETAIL (Synallaxis albescens) – One was seen without playback at Cameguadua!
RUFOUS SPINETAIL (Synallaxis unirufa) – A very responsive pair were seen well (and photographed!) on Cerro Montezuma.
SLATY SPINETAIL (Synallaxis brachyura) – First seen during a short stop en route to Cerro Montezuma (Apia), then again at the Cameguadua ponds.
Tyrannidae (Tyrant Flycatchers)
WHITE-TAILED TYRANNULET (Mecocerculus poecilocercus) – For Carol, one at Rio Blanco, and then for more, one at our lunch spot above Jardin.
WHITE-BANDED TYRANNULET (Mecocerculus stictopterus) – One above Jardin, as usual, higher than the White-tailed.
WHITE-THROATED TYRANNULET (Mecocerculus leucophrys) – A couple were seen in roadside scrub below PN Los Nevados.
MOUSE-COLORED TYRANNULET (Phaeomyias murina) – Two were seen at the Cameguadua ponds. P. m. incomta.
YELLOW-CROWNED TYRANNULET (Tyrannulus elatus) – One seen and another heard near Buga our first morning.
FOOTHILL ELAENIA (Myiopagis olallai) – A fun encounter, late on our last morning with a large, mixed flock at RNA AA: The recently described subspecies of Foothill Elaenia, M. o. coopmansi. It was very responsive to playback, and we had fairly good looks (given it is a small flycatcher up fairly high!). This form, quite gray in color, is notably disjunct from where Paul Coopmans originally found it in eastern Ecuador.
YELLOW-BELLIED ELAENIA (Elaenia flavogaster) – Several encounters in disturbed areas at lower elevations. One at the Cameguadua ponds on the 11th was sitting on a nest. [N]
Logistics matter, not to borrow from a current advertising campaign; one of our reliable drivers and vehicles, in the rain on Cerro Montezuma. (Photo by participant Greg Griffith)
TORRENT TYRANNULET (Serpophaga cinerea) – Seen along the Rio Otun below the park during our Torrent Duck search.
STREAK-NECKED FLYCATCHER (Mionectes striaticollis) – Small numbers at several stops, perhaps best along the road at RNA Las Tangaras.
OCHRE-BELLIED FLYCATCHER (Mionectes oleagineus) – Seen by part of the group during the wren search at Bolombolo.
SLATY-CAPPED FLYCATCHER (Leptopogon superciliaris) – Seen first at La Romera on the 19th, where nesting on a bank, and then both days at RNA AA. [N]
RUFOUS-BREASTED FLYCATCHER (Leptopogon rufipectus) – Seen first at Otun-Quimbaya, with more views on two days at Rio Blanco. An uncommon bird of montane forest.
MARBLE-FACED BRISTLE-TYRANT (Phylloscartes ophthalmicus) – Several sightings, including Otun-Quimbaya, Las Tangaras, and, with the big flock at eye level, at RNA AA.
SOOTY-HEADED TYRANNULET (Phyllomyias griseiceps) – Seen at El Vinculo our first morning, then heard at Cameguadua.
BLACK-CAPPED TYRANNULET (Phyllomyias nigrocapillus) – A couple were seen at Rio Blanco, and one was heard above Jardin.
PLUMBEOUS-CROWNED TYRANNULET (Phyllomyias plumbeiceps) – Two responsive birds with a mixed flock at Otun-Quimbaya stayed high overhead, but between voice and appearance, were quite identifiable!
GOLDEN-FACED TYRANNULET (GOLDEN-FACED) (Zimmerius chrysops chrysops) – Heard, often commonly, almost daily, and seen periodically. As best we know, the birds in the Western Andes are not Choco Tyrannulet, which occurs farther south, but there is much about which to be puzzled in this group, visually and vocally, and there is much confusion on this subject (and much new, solid data from the papers by Frank Rheindt et al., but more work is needed).
ORNATE FLYCATCHER (Myiotriccus ornatus) – Seen on Cerro Montezuma and at RNA Las Tangaras, and heard at the Piha reserve. A truly distinctive (and lovely) little flycatcher!
RUFOUS-HEADED PYGMY-TYRANT (Pseudotriccus ruficeps) – Two encounters with this nice little flycatcher along the road above Jardin.
SCALE-CRESTED PYGMY-TYRANT (Lophotriccus pileatus) [*]
RUFOUS-CROWNED TODY-FLYCATCHER (Poecilotriccus ruficeps) – Most saw this attractive bird at Rio Blanco, but it was less cooperative than normal.
We saw Slate-headed Tody-Flycatcher on the tour, but this one was photographed the day before the tour, when Greg and Paul came a day early to avoid potential airline problems and rest up, not that they rested! (Photo by participant Greg Griffith)
COMMON TODY-FLYCATCHER (Todirostrum cinereum) – A sprinkling over the lower to middle slopes.
YELLOW-OLIVE FLYCATCHER (Tolmomyias sulphurescens) – Two were seen near Buga (T. s. asemus; splits are likely in this species; a.k.a. Yellow-olive Flatbill).
CINNAMON FLYCATCHER (Pyrrhomyias cinnamomeus) – Locally common, very attractive, often confiding, and widespread, seen at four stops.
HANDSOME FLYCATCHER (Nephelomyias pulcher) – Seen in small groups, often with flocks, on Cerro Montezuma and at RNA Las Tangaras. These are the nominate subspecies; note the new generic name (formerly Myiophobus).
SMOKE-COLORED PEWEE (Contopus fumigatus) – In small numbers, but widespread.
ACADIAN FLYCATCHER (Empidonax virescens) – Heard in small numbers at four spots; we never tried all that hard to see these wintering birds (so much to do!). [b*]
WILLOW FLYCATCHER (Empidonax traillii) – Two seen at the Cameguadua ponds looked good for this species, and one responded physically, but not vocally, to playback of Willow; one in dry woodland near Bolombolo looked somewhat more like Alder, and responded to playback of neither, so!? [b]
BLACK PHOEBE (Sayornis nigricans) – Widespread along mountain streams.
VERMILION FLYCATCHER (Pyrocephalus rubinus) – A few in the lower part of the Cauca Valley.
STREAK-THROATED BUSH-TYRANT (Myiotheretes striaticollis) – Several were hanging around our Yellow-eared Parrot vista point.
SMOKY BUSH-TYRANT (Myiotheretes fumigatus) – We saw a responsive pair on Cerro Montezuma.
PIED WATER-TYRANT (Fluvicola pica) – One was at the Cameguadua ponds.
YELLOW-BELLIED CHAT-TYRANT (Ochthoeca diadema) – After some effort, we had good looks at one of this skulker in forest along the road above Jardin.
SLATY-BACKED CHAT-TYRANT (Ochthoeca cinnamomeiventris) – Heard above Jardin, and seen with surprising ease at La Romera--perched nicely in the open in a typical situation above a stream.
BROWN-BACKED CHAT-TYRANT (Ochthoeca fumicolor) – Good views of two in scrub at PN Los Nevados.
CATTLE TYRANT (Machetornis rixosa) – Good views at the Cameguadua ponds, including on the ground, whre they often forage; also at our hotel in Jardin.
DUSKY-CAPPED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus tuberculifer) – Several were seen on Cerro Montezuma.
APICAL FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus apicalis) – We had good views of this endemic Myiarchus our first morning near Buga. [E]
PALE-EDGED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus cephalotes) – A series of encounters of this montane Myiarchus at Otun-Quimbaya, Rio Blanco, above Jardin, and at RNA AA.
GREAT KISKADEE (Pitangus sulphuratus) – Scattered in open areas at lower elevations.
RUSTY-MARGINED FLYCATCHER (Myiozetetes cayanensis) – Widespread in disturbed areas at lower elevations, memorably cleaning up the insects on the walls under the lights at RNA AA.
LEMON-BROWED FLYCATCHER (Conopias cinchoneti) – A vocal pair was with a canopy flock on Cerro Montezuma. It is considered "Vulnerable."
GOLDEN-CROWNED FLYCATCHER (Myiodynastes chrysocephalus) – Scattered, more often heard than seen, but seen at RNA Las Tangaras, above Jardin, and at RNA AA.
STREAKED FLYCATCHER (Myiodynastes maculatus) – One of our first birds our first morning near Buga, then again in woodland during the Bolombolo wren search.
TROPICAL KINGBIRD (Tyrannus melancholicus) – Widespread in open and disturbed areas throughout, up to moderate elevations; interesting, twice encountered in the canopy of the forest at RNA AA.
Cotingidae (Cotingas)
GREEN-AND-BLACK FRUITEATER (Pipreola riefferii) – Common and easily seen this year on our visit to upper Cerro Montezuma (not always so); heard at RNA Las Tangaras.
BARRED FRUITEATER (Pipreola arcuata) – Also on upper Cerro Montezuma, Leopoldina pointed out a very cooperative pair of the less commonly seen Barred Fruiteater.
ORANGE-BREASTED FRUITEATER (Pipreola jucunda) – One of the less common Choco endemics, we seemed en route to missing it, but a responsive pair at RNA Las Tangaras was greatly appreciated, foremost because they were really lovely.
RED-CRESTED COTINGA (Ampelion rubrocristatus) – Gustavo, a master spotter of Ampelion, pointed out a speck, identifiable in the telescope, above Jardin.
ANDEAN COCK-OF-THE-ROCK (Rupicola peruvianus) – We had had a couple of encounters (a couple of quick males at Cerro Montezuma, the hilarious male attacking a window and perching on the roof at RNA Las Tangaras), but one of the highlights of the tour was still to come: The lek within walking distance of Jardin. With access from the landowner, we were at point blank range as males practiced and staked out territory (no females this early in the season). A memorable experience.
OLIVACEOUS PIHA (Snowornis cryptolophus) – This uncommon species seems relatively common at several sites in Colombia; we ended up seeing at least four.
Red-ruffed Fruitcrow is widespread but uncommon and local in South America; Otun-Quimbaya reserve is an amazing place for this spectacular cotinga. (Photo by participant Fred Dalbey)
CHESTNUT-CAPPED PIHA (Lipaugus weberi) – We dodged the Piha bullet again at the Piha reserve. Birders have had an impact on this bird, at least on seeing it, and we now have to hike well up the ridge to have a chance. Fortunately we hit a lively bird, and while looks were not great, they were decent and repeated. It is considered "Endangered," with a population of 600-1,700 birds at the N end of the Central Andes. [E]
DUSKY PIHA (Lipaugus fuscocinereus) – We have missed this species on a couple of recent trips, so it was great to get back in the win column at Rio Blanco. This happened when Greg spotted one perched in the forest; good views until the silent bird went on its way.
Pipridae (Manakins)
YELLOW-HEADED MANAKIN (Chloropipo flavicapilla) – Thanks to Hernan, a guide for Manakin Tours, we had great looks at this species at La Romera. In fact, we had been standing near it for quite a while, one guide in particular! :) It was just sitting, silent and motionless; was it stoned on fruit or calculating pi out to a thousand places?? We will never know, but it was a great bird to see, our second encounter with it here. It is considered "Near Threatened," with a population of about 6,700.
GOLDEN-WINGED MANAKIN (Masius chrysopterus) – We saw several on Cerro Montezuma, with good views of electric males.
CLUB-WINGED MANAKIN (Machaeropterus deliciosus) – Heard only at Cerro Montezuma. It was not a good manakin trip--we never see all that many individuals, but usually we run into a couple more species. [*]
Tityridae (Tityras and Allies)
BARRED BECARD (Pachyramphus versicolor) – A handful seen, more heard: Rio Blanco, Las Tangaras, Piha reserve.
CINEREOUS BECARD (Pachyramphus rufus) – Seen by part of the group our first morning near Buga; a widespread, but local, species.
WHITE-WINGED BECARD (Pachyramphus polychopterus) – Heard often; seen periodically at Otun-Quimbaya, Rio Blanco, and RNA AA.
Vireonidae (Vireos, Shrike-Babblers, and Erpornis)
CHOCO VIREO (Vireo masteri) – This recently-discovered species, a remarkable discovery given its tiny size and canopy habits, took a long time to find at RNA Las Tangaras, but we did have one. It stuck to the canopy, but we could see some of the details, and hear it sing. That has been the standard experience for this bird: Not great, but most welcome! It is considered "Endangered," with a population of about 15,000.
BROWN-CAPPED VIREO (Vireo leucophrys) – A fairly common bird, but we simply didn't connect well with it this year, hearing some, then Ron and Fred saw one at RNA AA.
RED-EYED VIREO (Vireo olivaceus) – Several heard, then one seen during a bathroom stop near La Pintada during our longest drive up the Cauca Valley. It looked like a local resident type.
RUFOUS-NAPED GREENLET (Hylophilus semibrunneus) – Not an endemic, but probably a lifebird for most, with Colombia the center of its range that barely extends into two other countries. We had more than normal, with a good view early in the trip at Otun-Quimbaya, and more periodically thereafter, including Morro Amarillo and RNA AA.
BLACK-BILLED PEPPERSHRIKE (Cyclarhis nigrirostris) – Mostly heard, and not seen well by all; while fairly common, it is a canopy species that can be unresponsive, and there is often something better with the same mixed flocks (excuses, excuses!)--seen at Otun-Quimbaya and Rio Blanco.
Corvidae (Crows, Jays, and Magpies)
BEAUTIFUL JAY (Cyanolyca pulchra) – Not a bad miss (uncommon and tough), but this Choco endemic was a regrettable miss, heard only at RNA Las Tangaras, and missed totally at Cerro Montezuma. It is considered "Near Threatened." [*]
BLACK-COLLARED JAY (Cyanolyca armillata) – This lovely jay was seen on two days at Rio Blanco with some nice views of cooperative birds. With a limited range in Ecuador and extending only into the Merida Andes of Venezuela, for many this is a lifer in Colombia.
BLACK-CHESTED JAY (Cyanocorax affinis) – Several near Jardin, and seen below RNA AA as we departed; others were heard.
GREEN JAY (Cyanocorax yncas) – Seen twice at Otun-Quimbaya, with more at RNA AA. These Andean populations are split by some as Inca Jay.
Hirundinidae (Swallows)
BLUE-AND-WHITE SWALLOW (Pygochelidon cyanoleuca) – Widespread.
BROWN-BELLIED SWALLOW (Orochelidon murina) – Several encounters with flocks, first around the top of Cerro Montezuma (the clouds were not too thick!), over the paramo of PN Los Nevados, and along the ridgetop at Rio Blanco.
SOUTHERN ROUGH-WINGED SWALLOW (Stelgidopteryx ruficollis) – Widespread in lower, more open areas.
BARN SWALLOW (Hirundo rustica) – Several were at the Cameguadua ponds. [b]
Troglodytidae (Wrens)
SCALY-BREASTED WREN (Microcerculus marginatus) – Heard several times, and seen twice at RNA AA, seen well by most, if only naked eye at two meters distance. a.k.a. S Nightingale-Wren.
HOUSE WREN (SOUTHERN) (Troglodytes aedon musculus) – Widespread, including building a nest under the eaves at our lodge at Cerro Montezuma, which hardly distracted anyone from the Empress Brilliants, et al.! [N]
SEDGE WREN (Cistothorus platensis) – Several were seen, and more heard, in the paramo at PN Los Nevados. These Andean populations are part of a broad group called "Grass Wren" which will certainly be split from Sedge Wren of northern North America.
WHITE-HEADED WREN (Campylorhynchus albobrunneus) – This relative of Band-backed Wren occurs locally from Panama to Ecuador. Over two days we managed to catch up with a few in the palm-studded clearing at RNA Las Tangaras.
SOOTY-HEADED WREN (Pheugopedius spadix) – We had a nicely responsive pair near RNA AA, and heard a couple more along the road.
WHISKERED WREN (Pheugopedius mystacalis) – This was another project, with varying fews of a pair at close range on Morro Amarillo.
Antioquia Wren was described recently from this area; it sounds much like a Rufous-and-white Wren, but is, as this photo shows, less rufous. Finding this bird was a long, hot slog! (Photo by participant Greg Griffith)
RUFOUS WREN (Cinnycerthia unirufa) – Rufous? We heard them very well, and we saw them at close range, but even at close range they were Gray inside the cloud at PN Los Nevados.
SHARPE'S WREN (Cinnycerthia olivascens) – Fairly common in several forests, seen especially well at Rio Blanco and RNA Las Tangaras. Part of the split of Sepia-brown Wren.
GRAY-BREASTED WOOD-WREN (Henicorhina leucophrys) – Common and widespread, heard nearly daily. We also saw them several times, including on Cerro Montezuma and above Jardin.
MUNCHIQUE WOOD-WREN (Henicorhina negreti) – While our weather on Cerro Montezuma was overall poor, we had enough good weather to make it up high and see this endemic, along with a couple of other special birds. Sometimes it can take a while, but we found a responsive pair right away, and had great views. This recently-described species was first noted several decades ago by Steve Hilty on Cerro Munchique, hence the name. It is considered "Critically Endanged," with a population under 1,000, which may reflect actual records, but naked-eye there is more habitat than that. Still, it is a rare and local bird that is hard to reach (as you know, from bouncing up there!). [E]
CHESTNUT-BREASTED WREN (Cyphorhinus thoracicus) – Heard at Otun-Quimbaya and RNA Las Tangaras. [*]
Cinclidae (Dippers)
WHITE-CAPPED DIPPER (Cinclus leucocephalus) – Olegario had the eye for these, pointing out a pair to us at Rio Blanco, and more along the river near RNA Las Tangaras.
Turdidae (Thrushes and Allies)
ANDEAN SOLITAIRE (Myadestes ralloides) – Heard regularly, with at least two seen on Cerro Montezuma.
ORANGE-BILLED NIGHTINGALE-THRUSH (Catharus aurantiirostris) – A couple were singing on Morro Amarillo, one of which responded, but was perhaps seen in the dense growth only by Greg.
SWAINSON'S THRUSH (Catharus ustulatus) – Several encounters with wintering birds, including Morro Amarillo and La Romera. [b]
Black Solitaire is a species we do not see every trip; this year we had several, although it took several chances for everyone to see one! A difficult endemic of the montane Choco. (Photo by participant Greg Griffith)
CLAY-COLORED THRUSH (Turdus grayi) – One was feeding with a Swainson's Thrush in a small fruiting tree along the track at Morro Amarillo; this species is expanding southward in the Cauca region.
BLACK-BILLED THRUSH (Turdus ignobilis) – Common and widespread in disturbed areas.
GREAT THRUSH (Turdus fuscater) – Does "worm-sucking vacuum cleaner" bring back memories? That is how we viewed them at the antpitta-feeding area at Rio Blanco, but otherwise they are an impressive bird!
GLOSSY-BLACK THRUSH (Turdus serranus) – We had good looks at one at Cerro Montezuma.
Mimidae (Mockingbirds and Thrashers)
TROPICAL MOCKINGBIRD (Mimus gilvus) – Tyrrell saw one while birding during a lunch stop en route to the Piha reserve.
Parulidae (New World Warblers)
LOUISIANA WATERTHRUSH (Parkesia motacilla) – One near La Pintada during our drive up the Cauca Valley was around the southern edge of its winter range; it was with a Northern for comparison of superciliums and flank color. [b]
NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH (Parkesia noveboracensis) – One along the Rio Cauca, with the preceding during a bathroom stop. [b]
GOLDEN-WINGED WARBLER (Vermivora chrysoptera) – Fred spotted one with a mixed flock at Rio Blanco. It is considered "Near Threatened." [b]
BLACK-AND-WHITE WARBLER (Mniotilta varia) – A half dozen or so were at scattered locations, often with mixed flocks in montane forest. [b]
TENNESSEE WARBLER (Oreothlypis peregrina) – Just a few at the northern end of the Central Andes, from Medellin north. [b]
OLIVE-CROWNED YELLOWTHROAT (Geothlypis semiflava) – Two were seen along the edge of one of the ponds at Cameguadua.
CERULEAN WARBLER (Setophaga cerulea) – A male that Daniel spotted on Morro Amarillo was very responsive to a recording of song. It is considered "Vulnerable." [b]
TROPICAL PARULA (Setophaga pitiayumi) – Two were seen at Otun-Quimbaya; also heard at RNA AA.
BAY-BREASTED WARBLER (Setophaga castanea) – Two sightings below RNA AA. [b]
BLACKBURNIAN WARBLER (Setophaga fusca) – The most common and widespread wintering warbler, missed on only one day. [b]
YELLOW WARBLER (NORTHERN) (Setophaga petechia aestiva) – A handful, all near the valley floor (Cameguadua, Bolombolo). [b]
RUFOUS-CAPPED WARBLER (Basileuterus rufifrons) – We had close views of a pair in roadside shrubbery below RNA AA.
THREE-STRIPED WARBLER (Basileuterus tristriatus) – Widespread in mid-elevation forests.
CITRINE WARBLER (Myiothlypis luteoviridis richardsoni) – This subspecies of the western Andes was eventually seen well above Jardin; a rather pale version of "citrine."
BLACK-CRESTED WARBLER (Myiothlypis nigrocristata) – Seen several times at PN Los Nevados and at Rio Blanco.
BUFF-RUMPED WARBLER (Myiothlypis fulvicauda) [*]
Andean Motmot, here in a park outside of Medellin, is a montane representative of the "Blue-crowned" group. (Photo by participant Fred Dalbey)
CANADA WARBLER (Cardellina canadensis) – After Blackburnian, the most frequently encountered wintering warbler on this route, seen at a half dozen stops, often with mixed flocks in good forest. [b]
SLATE-THROATED REDSTART (Myioborus miniatus) – The widespread redstart (a.k.a. whitestart) of the lower slopes, seen regularly along the entire route.
GOLDEN-FRONTED REDSTART (Myioborus ornatus) – The upper elevation redstart (whitestart), not quite an endemic, but often a lifebird for visitors to Colombia. A real beauty, seen first on Cerro Montezuma, with more at PN Los Nevados, Rio Blanco, and above Jardin.
Thraupidae (Tanagers and Allies)
WHITE-CAPPED TANAGER (Sericossypha albocristata) – Not a specialty, but a local and uncommon bird that is always a special occasion. We did not note them at Rio Blanco, but did hear and eventually see a responsive flock above Jardin. It is considered "Vulnerable."
RUFOUS-CRESTED TANAGER (Creurgops verticalis) – For just part of the group, one or two encounters at Rio Blanco.
BLACK-CAPPED HEMISPINGUS (Hemispingus atropileus) – Several sightings, first at Rio Blanco, then above Jardin.
SUPERCILIARIED HEMISPINGUS (Hemispingus superciliaris) – Seen twice with mixed flocks at Rio Blanco.
BLACK-EARED HEMISPINGUS (Hemispingus melanotis) – We had at least two groups with flocks at Rio Blanco.
GRAY-HOODED BUSH TANAGER (Cnemoscopus rubrirostris) – Fairly common with flocks at Rio Blanco, and seen again above Jardin.
WHITE-SHOULDERED TANAGER (Tachyphonus luctuosus) – One male was seen with a flock on the lower part of Cerro Montezuma.
CRIMSON-BACKED TANAGER (Ramphocelus dimidiatus) – Common our first morning near Buga, with a few more in disturbed areas on Cerro Montezuma and Morro Amarillo.
FLAME-RUMPED TANAGER (FLAME-RUMPED) (Ramphocelus flammigerus flammigerus) – We saw this more reddish color at a series of stops from start to finish of the tour, along with some hybrids in the disturbed areas of Cerro Montezuma. A recent paper describes the hybrid zone as having shifted eastward over the last century, but it remains narrow.
FLAME-RUMPED TANAGER (LEMON-RUMPED) (Ramphocelus flammigerus icteronotus) – This rump color was seen in disturbed areas of Cerro Montezuma, along with some hybrids; this year none were at RNA AA (?!?), despite the banana feeders!
BLACK-AND-GOLD TANAGER (Bangsia melanochlamys) – Our brief views on Cerro Montezuma were improved by several good encounters at RNA Las Tanagaras; one of the special endemics of Colombia's montane Choco. It is considered "Vulnerable" with a population of 600-1,700 birds. [E]
GOLD-RINGED TANAGER (Bangsia aureocincta) – By getting to the higher slopes of Cerro Montezuma we were in the heart of this bird's zone, and had several great encounters with a very fancy endemic. It is considered "Endangered" with a population of 600-1,700 (which seems low given potential habitat, but it is a local bird). [E]
HOODED MOUNTAIN-TANAGER (Buthraupis montana) – Heard above Jardin. [*]
GRASS-GREEN TANAGER (Chlorornis riefferii) – Small groups were seen on two days at Rio Blanco and again above Jardin.
Olivaceous Piha occurs south to Peru, but it is a seldom-seen species with which we do well in Western Colombia. (Photo by tour participant Greg Griffith)
SCARLET-BELLIED MOUNTAIN-TANAGER (Anisognathus igniventris) – A few vivid viewings in the treeline scrub of PN Los Nevados.
BLUE-WINGED MOUNTAIN-TANAGER (Anisognathus somptuosus) – Many good views of this beauty, starting at Rio Blanco, and continuing at RNA Las Tangaras, La Romera, and RNA AA.
BLACK-CHINNED MOUNTAIN-TANAGER (Anisognathus notabilis) – Endemic to the montane Choco, we missed it at Cerro Montezuma (blame the rain!), but had some excellent views twice at RNA Las Tangaras.
BUFF-BREASTED MOUNTAIN-TANAGER (Dubusia taeniata) – Quick views at Rio Blanco, with another, only somewhat better, above Jardin.
PURPLISH-MANTLED TANAGER (Iridosornis porphyrocephalus) – Endemic to the montane Choco, it is a difficult bird in Ecuador, but fairly common at some locales in Colombia. We saw it well on Cerro Montezuma, at RNA Las Tangaras, and at RNA AA. It is considered "Near Threatened."
GOLDEN-CROWNED TANAGER (Iridosornis rufivertex) – One of this beauty was seen with a small mixed flock in treeline scrub at PN Los Nevados.
GLISTENING-GREEN TANAGER (Chlorochrysa phoenicotis) – What an amazing color! Sort of like one of the green broadbills?? This Choco endemic was seen first on Cerro Montezuma, and again at RNA Las Tangaras, where one at eye level at close range did a very good job of doging our cameras!
MULTICOLORED TANAGER (Chlorochrysa nitidissima) – We visit three spots where we can see this bird, but there is always an element of luck--spotting the right bird in the right flock. After missing it last year for the first time, we had good success this year, seeing it twice at Otun-Quimbaya, and once at RNA AA, including brief telescope views and generally good sightings. As with the other Chlorochrysa, the colors are "different" and intense. It is considered "Vulnerable," with a population in the low tens of thousands. [E]
BLUE-GRAY TANAGER (Thraupis episcopus) – Widespread, as usual. Recent genetic studies show that Thraupis will be divided up, and that the Blue-gray and Palm group fit into the middle of what is currently called Tangara--there are some interesting re-shuffles of the tanagers still to come.
PALM TANAGER (Thraupis palmarum) – A few at lower elevations.
BLUE-CAPPED TANAGER (Thraupis cyanocephala) – Fairly common on upper Cerro Montezuma, with a few more at Rio Blanco and above Jardin. Genetic studies show that this is not a close relative of Blue-gray etc., but instead related to the mountain-tanagers! It may be returned to its old genus, Sporathraupis.
BLACK-CAPPED TANAGER (Tangara heinei) – Good views in the fruiting fig in our yard at Otun-Quimbaya, also at other mid-elevation spots such as La Romera, Morro Amarillo, and RNA AA.
SCRUB TANAGER (Tangara vitriolina) – Widespread (seen on 11 days) in disturbed areas at lower elevations.
BLUE-NECKED TANAGER (Tangara cyanicollis) – This beauty was coming to the banana feeder at RNA AA (and was seen several times earlier in the tour).
RUFOUS-THROATED TANAGER (Tangara rufigula) – A Choco specialty, it was seen first on Cerro Montezuma, and again (and better) at RNA Las Tangaras.
SPECKLED TANAGER (Tangara guttata) – Several sightings at RNA AA.
BLUE-AND-BLACK TANAGER (Tangara vassorii) – This upper-elevation Tangara was seen a few times at Rio Blanco and above Jardin.
BERYL-SPANGLED TANAGER (Tangara nigroviridis) – Regularly encountered, seen at five spots.
Another fine brush-finch view: Chestnut-capped (Photo by tour participant Greg Griffith)
BAY-HEADED TANAGER (Tangara gyrola) – Seen at most stops on the lower slopes.
SAFFRON-CROWNED TANAGER (Tangara xanthocephala) – Generally common in the Andes, this species seems relatively scarce on this route, this year seen only at RNA Las Tangaras.
GOLDEN TANAGER (Tangara arthus) – Widespread in small numbers. It is hard to come up with fresh adjectives for these tanagers, so sometimes we just say that you should consider the thesaurus thrown at the lot!
SILVER-THROATED TANAGER (Tangara icterocephala) – Seen at Cerro Montezuma and RNA AA, even coming to the banana feeder.
PURPLE HONEYCREEPER (Cyanerpes caeruleus) – One male was seen near RNA AA.
GREEN HONEYCREEPER (Chlorophanes spiza) – One for part of the group near the Cock-of-the-Rock lek.
GOLDEN-COLLARED HONEYCREEPER (Iridophanes pulcherrimus) – A pair was seen along the road at RNA Las Tangaras, not close, but good enough; an uncommon bird of foothill forests.
GUIRA TANAGER (Hemithraupis guira) – Seen twice our first day, and again briefly at the end at RNA AA.
SCARLET-AND-WHITE TANAGER (Chrysothlypis salmoni) – This stunning tanager was one of the red-letter (OK, scarlet-and-white) letter birds of that last great flock at RNA AA, and a seldom-seen Choco endemic as well. Good looks at an electric male and the very different female (a real ID challenge without the male).
CAPPED CONEBILL (Conirostrum albifrons) – Seen at Cerro Montezuma (males with blue caps) and Rio Blanco (males with white caps).
CHESTNUT-BELLIED FLOWERPIERCER (Diglossa gloriosissima) – One of our prizes on upper Cerro Montezuma was this endemic, an isolated part of the Glossy group. Seen well, under the amused view of the local army contingent! It is considered "Endangered" with a population of 1,000 to 2,500 individuals. [E]
GLOSSY FLOWERPIERCER (Diglossa lafresnayii) – Seen in the treeline scrub at PN Los Nevados, and later much better at the feeders down the road.
WHITE-SIDED FLOWERPIERCER (Diglossa albilatera) – At several locations, with some of our best views in the garden at Rio Blanco, where the many pierced flowers were also being visited by short-billed hummingbirds.
INDIGO FLOWERPIERCER (Diglossa indigotica) – A Choco specialty (and difficult in Ecuador), this prize was located several times at RNA Las Tangaras, where their songs tested how our high-range hearing has survived the aging process.
RUSTY FLOWERPIERCER (Diglossa sittoides) – A couple in the garden at Otun-Quimbaya was followed by one on Morro Amarillo.
BLUISH FLOWERPIERCER (Diglossa caerulescens) – One was seen briefly above Jardin.
MASKED FLOWERPIERCER (Diglossa cyanea) – Rio Blanco provided the best views.
PLUSHCAP (Catamblyrhynchus diadema) – Luz got most of the group on a pair traveling with a mixed flock at Rio Blanco.
PLUMBEOUS SIERRA-FINCH (Phrygilus unicolor) – One at PN Los Nevados at the same spot as the Cinclodes.
SAFFRON FINCH (Sicalis flaveola) – Seen several times in open areas near the valley floor.
Another taxonomic puzzle is the status of this "Yellow-throated" type of White-naped Brush-Finch, versus the "White-naped" type of Mexico, which is completely yellow underneath; in any event, this one is a beauty. (Photo by participant Ron Majors)
RUDDY-BREASTED SEEDEATER (Sporophila minuta) – Seen well in the grassy margins to the Cameguadua ponds.
THICK-BILLED SEED-FINCH (Sporophila funerea) – One male at Cameguadua.
VARIABLE SEEDEATER (Sporophila corvina) – One male was around the feeding area at Leopoldina's.
BLACK-AND-WHITE SEEDEATER (Sporophila luctuosa) – Paul saw a male on Morro Amarillo.
YELLOW-BELLIED SEEDEATER (Sporophila nigricollis) – Seen several times, that is, Weakly Yellowish-tinged Seedeaters :), in the yard at Otun-Quimbaya, around the Cameguadua ponds, and in the yard at RNA AA.
SLATE-COLORED SEEDEATER (Sporophila schistacea) – Seen by part of the group at the Cameguadua ponds.
BANANAQUIT (Coereba flaveola) – Widespread in small numbers from Cerro Montezuma to RNA AA.
YELLOW-FACED GRASSQUIT (Tiaris olivaceus) – A few were seen in grassy margins at Otun-Quimbaya and on Morro Amarillo.
DUSKY-FACED TANAGER (Mitrospingus cassinii) – Greg saw this lower elevation species on our departure from RNA AA.
BUFF-THROATED SALTATOR (Saltator maximus) – Seen on the feeding stations at Leopoldina's and RNA AA.
BLACK-WINGED SALTATOR (Saltator atripennis) – A series of sightings at the end of the tour at Morro Amarillo and La Romera, with more heard and seen at RNA AA.
GRAYISH SALTATOR (Saltator coerulescens) – This lowland bird was seen at the Cameguadua ponds.
STREAKED SALTATOR (Saltator striatipectus) – Two were at El Vinculo near Buga.
Emberizidae (Buntings and New World Sparrows)
TANAGER FINCH (Oreothraupis arremonops) – After fishing many times, we had a great experience with this difficult Choco endemic, seeing a pair singing at close range above Jardin. It is considered "Vulnerable," with a population of 6,000 to 15,000.
OLIVE FINCH (Arremon castaneiceps) – We were really close to them on Cerro Montezuma, but the vegetation was thick, and views ranged from good to poor. It is considered "Near Threatened."
CHESTNUT-CAPPED BRUSH-FINCH (Arremon brunneinucha) – A series of good sightings, including the repeated visitors to the wood-quail feeder at RNA AA (the only bird visiting the feeder).
GRAY-BROWED BRUSH-FINCH (Arremon assimilis assimilis) – We saw them several times at Rio Blanco, including superb views during antpitta feeding sessions. As split from Stripe-headed Brush-Finch.
BLACK-STRIPED SPARROW (Arremonops conirostris) – Seen first near Buga, then very well several times near Bolombolo, the reason being that the sparrow song was in the background of the Antioquia Wren recording!
WHITE-NAPED BRUSH-FINCH (YELLOW-THROATED) (Atlapetes albinucha gutturalis) – This very attractive brush-finch was seen at RNA Las Tangaras, on Morro Amarillo, and at La Romera.
OK, so the pale nape is not showing, but this is a lovely photograph of Pale-naped Brush-Finch near P.N. Los Nevados. (Photo by participant Ron Majors)
TRICOLORED BRUSH-FINCH (CHOCO) (Atlapetes tricolor crassus) – This Choco form was seen on Cerro Montezuma and at RNA Las Tangaras. As long suspected, recent genetic studies have shown that this subspecies should be treated as a full species, Atlapetes crassus (nominate tricolor occurs in Peru and is not the closest relative of crassus, Sanchez-Gonzalez et al, Zoologica Scripta 2014).
SLATY BRUSH-FINCH (Atlapetes schistaceus) – Seen well at Rio Blanco, with more good views above Jardin.
RUFOUS-COLLARED SPARROW (Zonotrichia capensis) – Common and widespread.
COMMON CHLOROSPINGUS (Chlorospingus flavopectus) – We saw small groups at Otun-Quimbaya and Rio Blanco (C. f. nigriceps), and La Romera (exitelus). f.k.a. Common Bush-Tanager.
DUSKY CHLOROSPINGUS (Chlorospingus semifuscus) – This "bush-tanager" was seen on Cerro Montezuma. A Choco form, genetic studies show it to be part of the Common Chlorospingus group; expect it to stay a full species, and Common Chlorospingus to be split further.
YELLOW-THROATED CHLOROSPINGUS (Chlorospingus flavigularis) – Seen by part of the group at RNA Las Tangaras and better by all at RNA AA.
ASHY-THROATED CHLOROSPINGUS (Chlorospingus canigularis) – Good views of two at Otun-Quimbaya, in the same flock as Common Chlorospingus.
Cardinalidae (Cardinals and Allies)
HEPATIC TANAGER (Piranga flava) – A regular visitor to the RNA Las Tangaras feeders; another was on Morro Amarillo.
SUMMER TANAGER (Piranga rubra) – Usually just one or two wintering birds a day, but seen (or heard) on most days. [b]
WHITE-WINGED TANAGER (Piranga leucoptera) – Seen first on Cerro Montezuma, with others at Otun-Quimbaya and RNA AA.
RED-HOODED TANAGER (Piranga rubriceps) – An uncommon bird, always a prize; we had a trio at Rio Blanco, up high in the canopy, but still vivid.
CRESTED ANT-TANAGER (Habia cristata) – We have several chances for this endemic, and have so far always connected somewhere, but we are never sure where it will be. This year we had a responsive group traveling through the understory on Cerro Montezuma, which was a good thing because the ones we then heard at Otun-Quimbaya did not emerge, and we encountered no others. [E]
ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK (Pheucticus ludovicianus) – Wintering birds were in disturbed areas at Otun-Quimbaya and Morro Amarillo. [b]
Icteridae (Troupials and Allies)
RED-BREASTED BLACKBIRD (Sturnella militaris) – Fred saw one in a pasture en route to RNA AA.
CARIB GRACKLE (Quiscalus lugubris) – Seen by part of the group during a lunch stop en route to RNA AA. This species has colonized large swaths of disturbed areas in Colombia west of the Andes.
RED-BELLIED GRACKLE (Hypopyrrhus pyrohypogaster) – One of Colombia's finest and most distinctive endemics. Our exciting first encounter was at RNA Las Tangaras, where they are known but not expected. We had longer looks at La Romera, but only heard them at RNA AA. It is considered "Vulnerable," with a population of 2,500 to 10,000. [E]
SHINY COWBIRD (Molothrus bonariensis) – A few at lower elevations near the valley floor.
YELLOW-BACKED ORIOLE (Icterus chrysater) – Telescope views of two singing birds on Morro Amarillo.
YELLOW ORIOLE (Icterus nigrogularis) – Two were seen our first morning near Buga.
YELLOW-BILLED CACIQUE (Amblycercus holosericeus) – We heard them at Rio Blanco, but managed no more than a glimpse of one in flight, probably visually uncountable for most.
MOUNTAIN CACIQUE (Cacicus chrysonotus) – Nice views near our lunch spot above Jardin.
RUSSET-BACKED OROPENDOLA (Psarocolius angustifrons) – If we thought that the Great Thrushes were bad at Rio Blanco, these things make it even harder to maintain a banana feeder at RNA Las Tangaras. But they are impressive monsters.
CHESTNUT-HEADED OROPENDOLA (Psarocolius wagleri) – One was seen from the veranda at Leopoldina's.
Fringillidae (Finches, Euphonias, and Allies)
THICK-BILLED EUPHONIA (Euphonia laniirostris) – Good studies at the banana feeder at Leopoldina's, with a few others at lower elevations.
ORANGE-BELLIED EUPHONIA (Euphonia xanthogaster) – In small numbers in the lower montane forests.
BLUE-NAPED CHLOROPHONIA (Chlorophonia cyanea) – One in the fruiting fig in the yard at Otun-Quimbaya, and two more sightings at RNA AA.
CHESTNUT-BREASTED CHLOROPHONIA (Chlorophonia pyrrhophrys) – Heard at RNA Las Tangaras. [*]
YELLOW-COLLARED CHLOROPHONIA (Chlorophonia flavirostris) – Good views of a pair at eye level at RNA Las Tangaras, although the Black-chinned Mountain-Tanagers were a (wonderful) distraction.
YELLOW-BELLIED SISKIN (Spinus xanthogastrus) – This species seems relatively common in Colombia; we had sightings at five spots, perhaps our best coming in the Yellow-eared Parrot area.
MAMMALS
RED HOWLER MONKEY (Alouatta seniculus) – Heard at Otun-Quimbaya. [*]
BRAZILIAN RABBIT (Sylvilagus brasiliensis) – Seen by part of the group at PN Los Nevados.
RED-TAILED SQUIRREL (Sciurus granatensis) – Seen at the Cameguadua ponds and at Rio Blanco.
AMAZON DWARF SQUIRREL (Microsciurus flaviventer) – We saw a very small squirrel that looks like this genus at Cerro Montezuma, Otun-Quimbaya, Rio Blanco, and RNA Las Tangaras. Further research suggests it is probably this species (Thorington et al., Squirrels of the World), M. f. otinus (and not M. santanderensis as used on the checklist).
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Other critters:
Spectacled Bear: Chucho, the rescue project, at Rio Blanco, in his enclosure.
Chestnut Wood-Rat: Our joking name for the small rodents that came to the Chestnut Wood-Quail feeder to which the Chestnut Wood-Quail were not coming this visit. No idea even what genus is involved.
Iguana: A couple at Camaguadua.
Snake sp.: Cerro Montezuma
Anolis sp.
Teid lizards sp.
And perhaps best of all, a Caecilian (an order of Amphibians) on Cerro Montezuma, perhaps brought out by the rain.
Additional bird species seen by those who arrived a day early to the Buga area: Glossy Ibis, Osprey, Little Cuckoo, Greater Ani, Linneated Woodpecker, Fork-tailed Flycatcher, Yellow-green Vireo, and Orchard Oriole.
Totals for the tour: 427 bird taxa and 4 mammal taxa