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In addition to more than 400 other species of birds, it was a great tour for nightbirds, with 17 species recorded, including this Spectacled Owl. Check out the fantastic potoos below, too! (Photo by participants David & Judy Smith)
After many years of learning and reading about the geological features of this area and their tremendous impact and influence on the avifauna of the Amazon region, I was thrilled to join Bret on this trip to a destination that has fascinated me for so long. We had great luck with the weather and with the specialties we were after: White-winged and Rufous potoos, Guianan Cock-of-the-rock, Guianan Red-Cotinga, Guianan Toucanet, Capuchinbird, Crimson Topaz, Guianan Puffbird, Bronzy Jacamar, Waved Woodpecker, and many more species, including some new ones, restricted to this amazing part of the Amazon and the Guianas.
We started our tour by birding the hotel grounds, where we had good views of some common species such as White-eyed Parakeet, Pale-breasted Thrush, Grayish Saltator, and Yellow-rumped Cacique. Our next day we had a great visit to the Ducke reserve, where we had great views of a responsive Black-faced Hawk perched in the open, a pair of Guianan Toucanets that came in close, several species of woodcreepers including a Red-billed, a very cooperative Amazonian Pygmy-Owl, and Red-billed Tanagers, among others. In the afternoon we visited a palm swamp area near town where we scored the three palm specialties: Sulphury Flycatcher, Red-bellied Macaw, and Point-tailed Palmcreeper. We also had great views of a pair of Golden-spangled Piculets, some Black-necked Aracaris, and Variable Chachalacas, which responded surprisingly well to the tape!
Our next stop was the town of Presidente Figueiredo, where we had another set of target birds. Perhaps the most sought-after was Guianan Cock-of-the-rock, which we saw very well. Among other species restricted to this area we also saw well Crimson Topaz, Bronzy Jacamar, and Rufous-crowned Elaenia. And how could we forget the pair of Scarlet Macaws we came across sitting in the open on our way to the Cock-of-the-rock lek?! Next on our tour was Camp 41, where we spent three nights. Bret did a great "hammock workshop" to ensure our proper use of such a helpful and useful sleeping device and to make sure we'd enjoy good sleep during our stay there. Capuchinbirds, Guianan Warbling-Antbird, and Guianan Red-Cotinga were some of the species we saw well near the Camp.
On the next leg of our tour we were based on the Iracema, our great and comfortable boat aboard which we spent the rest of our tour navigating the Rio Negro area, including the Anavilhanas archipelago and Jau National Park, where we explored islands and trails looking for different species such as Wire-tailed Manakins. But perhaps the most amazing sights on this part of the trip were the four species of potoos, including daytime views of a Great Potoo with a chick and dynamite close views of Rufous and White-winged potoos!
After we left the Rio Negro area, we continued on the mighty Amazon and had wonderful views of the meeting of the waters, where for miles one can see how the dark waters of the Rio Negro and the silt-laden ones of the Amazon run side by side for miles without mixing.
We spent our following days exploring and birding a different set of islands in the Amazon and Madeira rivers. We had new species such as Black-bellied Whistling-Ducks, Brazilian Teal, several species of resident shorebirds like Pied and Southern lapwings, Collared Plovers, as well as some boreal migrants such as American and Black-bellied plovers, and Spotted, Least, and White-rumped sandpipers, to mention a few. Other sightings included Lesser Horneros and spectacular views of a pair of Spectacled Owls with a youngster(!), Green-throated Mango, Olive-spotted Hummingbird, Varzea Piculet, and seven species of spinetails!
This was indeed a great trip, and I am very grateful for all of those great moments we shared. Here are just a few: landing on a newly formed island and seeing all that great bird activity; bushwhacking to find Bret spotlighting a Rufous Potoo at close range; and what about the Crested Owl that came and perched in the open to allow us great views? There were so many great moments that will remain with us for a long time.
My deepest gratitude goes to all the people who worked very hard to make our trip so smooth and enjoyable, especially Junior and his crew on the Iracema. Of course you, the group, also made this a memorable trip -- thank you very much! I look forward to meeting you again in another wonderful part of the world to share more great times together.
Com grandes abraços,
Pepe e Bretche
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)
GREAT TINAMOU (Tinamus major) – At Camp 41 daily. [*]
The incomparable Guianan Cock-of-the-rock is always a reliable highlight on this tour. The angle in this photo by participants David & Judy Smith really shows off the odd shape of the semi-circular crest as well as the wing filaments.
VARIEGATED TINAMOU (Crypturellus variegatus) – Also heard at camp 41. [*]
Anhimidae (Screamers)
HORNED SCREAMER (Anhima cornuta) – Our best looks of this species were from the upper deck on the Iracema when they responded very well to the playback and allowed us great views on fly. We even had great views of the "horn" as well as the claws that grow in their alulas.
Anatidae (Ducks, Geese, and Waterfowl)
BLACK-BELLIED WHISTLING-DUCK (Dendrocygna autumnalis) – We saw a great number of these birds, especially on the new island (Ilha Nova).
MUSCOVY DUCK (Cairina moschata) – Very common around Jau national park.
BRAZILIAN TEAL (Amazonetta brasiliensis) – We saw our first individuals (of many more to come) at the new island.
Cracidae (Guans, Chachalacas, and Curassows)
VARIABLE CHACHALACA (Ortalis motmot) – During our visit to the palm swamp area around Manaus, these birds responded surprisingly well to Bret's tape, allowing us to get great views. AKA Little Chachalaca.
MARAIL GUAN (Penelope marail) – Our best looks were at the road on Camp 41.
SPIX'S GUAN (Penelope jacquacu) – It was seen at the West bank of the rio Negro, where it replaces the previous species. [*]
NOCTURNAL CURASSOW (Nothocrax urumutum) – What a nice surprise for those that went to the night outing after the White-winged Potoo. Just hearing this birds out there was a treat! [*]
CRESTLESS CURASSOW (Mitu tomentosum) – We did not see this bird but it was heard during our outing in the Anavilhanas archipelago. [*]
Odontophoridae (New World Quail)
MARBLED WOOD-QUAIL (Odontophorus gujanensis) – Mostly heard but on the way back to the hammocks camp, Pepe, Carol and Judy flushed two individuals from the trail. [*]
Phalacrocoracidae (Cormorants and Shags)
NEOTROPIC CORMORANT (Phalacrocorax brasilianus) – Common around the river.
Anhingidae (Anhingas)
We're not usually big fans of vulture photos, but this one of an adult and young Lesser Yellow-headed Vulture...well, it's a bit unusual, to say the least! Check out the Great Potoo with chick also in the upper right corner... (Photo by participants David & Judy Smith)
Ardeidae (Herons, Egrets, and Bitterns)
RUFESCENT TIGER-HERON (Tigrisoma lineatum)
COCOI HERON (Ardea cocoi)
GREAT EGRET (Ardea alba)
SNOWY EGRET (Egretta thula)
CATTLE EGRET (Bubulcus ibis)
STRIATED HERON (Butorides striata)
CAPPED HERON (Pilherodius pileatus)
BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON (Nycticorax nycticorax)
BOAT-BILLED HERON (Cochlearius cochlearius) – WOW! Do you remember that male in breeding plumage? I hadn't seen that crest before.
Threskiornithidae (Ibises and Spoonbills)
GREEN IBIS (Mesembrinibis cayennensis) [*]
BUFF-NECKED IBIS (Theristicus caudatus) – Bret spotted at least three individuals from the upper deck while cruising the Amazon along the shore of the cattle ranches.
Cathartidae (New World Vultures)
BLACK VULTURE (Coragyps atratus)
TURKEY VULTURE (Cathartes aura)
LESSER YELLOW-HEADED VULTURE (Cathartes burrovianus) – This species replaces the following species out of the forest. Mainly on islands.
GREATER YELLOW-HEADED VULTURE (Cathartes melambrotus) – Above the forest.
KING VULTURE (Sarcoramphus papa) – We had great views of an individual perched above the hammocks camp.
Pandionidae (Osprey)
OSPREY (Pandion haliaetus) – Dona Margaretch spotted an individual the first afternoon from the Iracema.
Accipitridae (Hawks, Eagles, and Kites)
GRAY-HEADED KITE (Leptodon cayanensis) [*]
SWALLOW-TAILED KITE (Elanoides forficatus)
ORNATE HAWK-EAGLE (Spizaetus ornatus) – An individual soaring was heard and seen by some on Pepe's boat while coming back from our last morning's outing in Jau.
BLACK-COLLARED HAWK (Busarellus nigricollis)
Islands in beautiful Anavilhanas Archipelago (Photo by participants David & Judy Smith)
PLUMBEOUS KITE (Ictinia plumbea)
CRANE HAWK (Geranospiza caerulescens)
GREAT BLACK-HAWK (Buteogallus urubitinga) – We had some closer looks of a pair perched at the tree near the hammocks camp.
ROADSIDE HAWK (Rupornis magnirostris) – Should we call them riverside hawk?
WHITE HAWK (Pseudastur albicollis) – Our best looks of this beautiful raptor were along the road at Camp 41.
BLACK-FACED HAWK (Leucopternis melanops) – This bird responded very well to the tape and flew to perched on a clear branch were we enjoyed great looks.
GRAY-LINED HAWK (Buteo nitidus)
Eurypygidae (Sunbittern)
SUNBITTERN (Eurypyga helias) [*]
Rallidae (Rails, Gallinules, and Coots)
GRAY-BREASTED CRAKE (Laterallus exilis) [*]
GRAY-NECKED WOOD-RAIL (Aramides cajaneus) [*]
RUSSET-CROWNED CRAKE (Anurolimnas viridis) [*]
PURPLE GALLINULE (Porphyrio martinicus)
Heliornithidae (Finfoots)
SUNGREBE (Heliornis fulica) – Some distant views ahead of Bret's boat at Jau.
Aramidae (Limpkin)
LIMPKIN (Aramus guarauna)
Charadriidae (Plovers and Lapwings)
PIED LAPWING (Vanellus cayanus) – As with most of the waders, our first encounter was at the new island and later along the Amazon shores.
SOUTHERN LAPWING (Vanellus chilensis) – Ditto.
BLACK-BELLIED PLOVER (Pluvialis squatarola)
We were treated to rare views of the amazing crest of this Boat-billed Heron on an evening boat trip in Jau National Park! A Capped Heron happened to be roosting nearby. (HD video copyright Bret Whitney)
COLLARED PLOVER (Charadrius collaris)
Jacanidae (Jacanas)
WATTLED JACANA (Jacana jacana)
Scolopacidae (Sandpipers and Allies)
SPOTTED SANDPIPER (Actitis macularius)
SOLITARY SANDPIPER (Tringa solitaria)
LESSER YELLOWLEGS (Tringa flavipes)
LEAST SANDPIPER (Calidris minutilla)
WHITE-RUMPED SANDPIPER (Calidris fuscicollis)
Laridae (Gulls, Terns, and Skimmers)
YELLOW-BILLED TERN (Sternula superciliaris) – Seen every day at Jau.
LARGE-BILLED TERN (Phaetusa simplex) – Ditto.
BLACK SKIMMER (Rynchops niger) – Seen couple of times flying very high.
Columbidae (Pigeons and Doves)
ROCK PIGEON (Columba livia)
PALE-VENTED PIGEON (Patagioenas cayennensis)
SCALED PIGEON (Patagioenas speciosa) – We had a great view of this beautiful pigeon at Lages in Presidente Figueiredo.
PLUMBEOUS PIGEON (Patagioenas plumbea)
RUDDY PIGEON (Patagioenas subvinacea)
COMMON GROUND-DOVE (Columbina passerina)
RUDDY GROUND-DOVE (Columbina talpacoti)
WHITE-TIPPED DOVE (Leptotila verreauxi) [*]
GRAY-FRONTED DOVE (Leptotila rufaxilla) [*]
Opisthocomidae (Hoatzin)
HOATZIN (Opisthocomus hoazin)
Cuculidae (Cuckoos)
LITTLE CUCKOO (Coccycua minuta) – When we were looking for the Plain Softails, this species was heard and seen very well.
This might be an intimidating view if you're Black-faced Hawk prey. (Photo by participants David & Judy Smith)
BLACK-BELLIED CUCKOO (Piaya melanogaster) – Same as above but also at Camp 41 where it was heard everyday.
STRIPED CUCKOO (Tapera naevia) – We heard its call from the Iracema. [*]
GREATER ANI (Crotophaga major)
SMOOTH-BILLED ANI (Crotophaga ani)
Tytonidae (Barn-Owls)
BARN OWL (AMERICAN) (Tyto alba hellmayri) – While enjoying a great sunset, an unmistakeable silhouette came flying across the river above our boats, which turned out to be this species.
Strigidae (Owls)
CRESTED OWL (Lophostrix cristata) – What a great experience. During our first night outing, we heard an individual vocalizing and it responded very well to the tape. It not only came flying across the river but also perched for long time allowing us to enjoy great views and pictures of it. A favorite of Carol and Judy!
SPECTACLED OWL (Pulsatrix perspicillata) – Speaking of great views, this species was also very responsive. After the playback, Lynn spotted the individual that came in and perched! Later we had great views at day light of a pair with a white young chick at Marchantaria island. [N]
AMAZONIAN PYGMY-OWL (Glaucidium hardyi) – Great views at the Ducke reserve our first morning.
BURROWING OWL (Athene cunicularia) – We had at least two at the lawn of our hotel in Presidente Figueiredo.
Caprimulgidae (Nightjars and Allies)
SHORT-TAILED NIGHTHAWK (Lurocalis semitorquatus)
SAND-COLORED NIGHTHAWK (Chordeiles rupestris) – On the new island we saw several individuals sitting on the sand and logs everywhere.
LESSER NIGHTHAWK (Chordeiles acutipennis) – We saw some individuals flying around and foraging from our deck around the Umbrella birds island on our way to the Madeira river.
BAND-TAILED NIGHTHAWK (Nyctiprogne leucopyga) – We saw a number of individuals flying at dawn and dusk from the Iracema mostly around Jau National Park.
COMMON PAURAQUE (Nyctidromus albicollis) – Mostly heard in Jau National Park. [*]
LITTLE NIGHTJAR (Caprimulgus parvulus) – After the potoo outing, for those on the boat we saw an individual perched low on a branch. [a]
BLACKISH NIGHTJAR (Caprimulgus nigrescens) – David spotted a male sitting by the road on the Camp 41 highway.
LADDER-TAILED NIGHTJAR (Hydropsalis climacocerca) – Seen at igarapé preto in Jau National Park and heard also in the new island.
Nyctibiidae (Potoos)
GREAT POTOO (Nyctibius grandis) – We had great views of this species in several locations including one first found by Marcelo Padua in 2009! A favorite of many was the female with the baby we found later at the Marchantaria island. [N]
This Sand-colored Nighthawk blended pretty nicely with the sandy background of a river island we visited. (Photo by participants David & Judy Smith)
WHITE-WINGED POTOO (Nyctibius leucopterus) – WOW! I can't believe the looks we got at this bird! After an "almost" (and frustrating!) encounter in Camp 41, we had amazing views of of a responsive bird in the terra firme trail in Jau National park. As Bret explained, the Amazon form we saw differs from the specimens from the the type locality in Bahia and it has been split. Stay tuned for the final paper!
RUFOUS POTOO (Nyctibius bracteatus) – Another hard bird to get that is associated with white sands and allowed wonderful looks. Personally, this species had eluded me several times until this trip. Our early morning search for this bird involved some bush whacking when Bret when ahead to locate this small potoo. A favorite and lifer of many, including yours truly!
Apodidae (Swifts)
SHORT-TAILED SWIFT (Chaetura brachyura)
BAND-RUMPED SWIFT (Chaetura spinicaudus)
GRAY-RUMPED SWIFT (Chaetura cinereiventris)
FORK-TAILED PALM-SWIFT (Tachornis squamata) – It was great to see the nest that Bret found and to hear how they gather the feathers to build the nests.....birds, be afraid of the swifts!
Trochilidae (Hummingbirds)
CRIMSON TOPAZ (Topaza pella) – We enjoyed superb looks at a male missing one of the streamer feathers. We even had great views of the bird perched guarding his flowers!
WHITE-NECKED JACOBIN (Florisuga mellivora)
RUFOUS-BREASTED HERMIT (Glaucis hirsutus) – We saw this hummer at the Machado island.
STRAIGHT-BILLED HERMIT (Phaethornis bourcieri)
One of those potoos we mentioned earlier...the rarely seen White-winged, seen beautifully well! (Photo by guide Bret Whitney)
REDDISH HERMIT (Phaethornis ruber)
BLACK-EARED FAIRY (Heliothryx auritus) – The first we saw was from the INPA tower. Later Don Miguel found a female building a nest during our visit to the Reserva de Campina. [N]
GREEN-TAILED GOLDENTHROAT (Polytmus theresiae)
GREEN-THROATED MANGO (Anthracothorax viridigula)
BLUE-CHINNED SAPPHIRE (Chlorestes notata)
GRAY-BREASTED SABREWING (Campylopterus largipennis)
FORK-TAILED WOODNYMPH (Thalurania furcata)
OLIVE-SPOTTED HUMMINGBIRD (Leucippus chlorocercus) – This island specialist was seen twice during our island outings.
VERSICOLORED EMERALD (Amazilia versicolor)
GLITTERING-THROATED EMERALD (Amazilia fimbriata)
Trogonidae (Trogons)
BLACK-TAILED TROGON (Trogon melanurus)
GREEN-BACKED TROGON (Trogon viridis)
GUIANAN TROGON (Trogon violaceus) – This species was recently split from the Violaceous Trogon based on genetic and vocalization data.
BLUE-CROWNED TROGON (Trogon curucui)
BLACK-THROATED TROGON (Trogon rufus)
Momotidae (Motmots)
AMAZONIAN MOTMOT (Momotus momota)
Alcedinidae (Kingfishers)
RINGED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle torquata)
AMAZON KINGFISHER (Chloroceryle amazona)
GREEN KINGFISHER (Chloroceryle americana)
GREEN-AND-RUFOUS KINGFISHER (Chloroceryle inda) – This species was elusive to Bret and Michael for a few days until we got it our last morning on the Igarapé Preto in Jau National Park.
AMERICAN PYGMY KINGFISHER (Chloroceryle aenea)
Bucconidae (Puffbirds)
GUIANAN PUFFBIRD (Notharchus macrorhynchos) – One of the specialties of the Guianas seen from the INPA tower and also at Presidente Figueiredo.
PIED PUFFBIRD (Notharchus tectus) – A pair was spotted our last morning at the INPA tower.
SPOTTED PUFFBIRD (Bucco tamatia) – Dona Judy spotted this bird while we were working on the Yellow-crowned Manakin in the Reserva de Campina.
Yellow-billed Jacamar (Photo by participants David & Judy Smith)
BLACK-FRONTED NUNBIRD (Monasa nigrifrons) – This one replaces the previous species on the West bank of the Rio Negro and south of the Amazon river.
SWALLOW-WINGED PUFFBIRD (Chelidoptera tenebrosa)
Galbulidae (Jacamars)
YELLOW-BILLED JACAMAR (Galbula albirostris)
GREEN-TAILED JACAMAR (Galbula galbula) – Lynn found an individual perched while we were watching the Softails displaying.
BRONZY JACAMAR (Galbula leucogastra) – This is also another of the specialties of the trip. An inhabitant of the campina and other similar areas under the influence of the Guianan shield. Nicely seen!
PARADISE JACAMAR (Galbula dea)
GREAT JACAMAR (Jacamerops aureus) – The best views were at Camp 41 where we had a very responsive individual.
Capitonidae (New World Barbets)
BLACK-SPOTTED BARBET (Capito niger) – Our best looks were from the INPA tower.
GILDED BARBET (Capito auratus) – We saw this species across the Negro river, at the West bank, where it replaces the previous species.
Ramphastidae (Toucans)
BLACK-NECKED ARACARI (Pteroglossus aracari) – We came across this bird twice. First in Taruma for a brief moment and later at Presidente Figueiredo sitting next to a pair of Scarlet Macaws...Nice!
GUIANAN TOUCANET (Selenidera culik) – Another specialty of the area well seen (and photographed) during our first outing on the Ducke reserve in Manaus.
TAWNY-TUFTED TOUCANET (Selenidera nattereri) – After playing its call, we heard an individual responding at the distance and we went buschwacking in an effort to meet this bird in the middle. Tried again but the birds just did not cooperate. [*]
TOCO TOUCAN (Ramphastos toco) – I am not sure if everybody was able to see this one. It was spotted by Bret when we were cruising back to Manaus aboard the Iracema from the top deck.
WHITE-THROATED TOUCAN (Ramphastos tucanus) – The nominate race was seeing during the first part of our tour, around the area of influence of the Guianan shield.
The tall INPA tower north of Manaus, from which we saw so many great birds. (Photo by participants David & Judy Smith)
CHANNEL-BILLED TOUCAN (Ramphastos vitellinus) – The individuals of this race had the orange feathers. Also in the area under the Guianan shield influence.
CHANNEL-BILLED TOUCAN (YELLOW-RIDGED) (Ramphastos vitellinus culminatus) – This race replaced the previous species West of the Negro river and as you remember, it did not have orange, just a white throat.
Picidae (Woodpeckers)
LAFRESNAYE'S PICULET (Picumnus lafresnayi)
GOLDEN-SPANGLED PICULET (Picumnus exilis) – A pair managed to sneak by a bush next to us at the spot where we saw the chachalacas.
VARZEA PICULET (Picumnus varzeae) – This Brazilian endemic was nicely seen at our first stop in the buffalo island in the Madeira river. [E]
YELLOW-TUFTED WOODPECKER (Melanerpes cruentatus) – Great views from the INPA tower.
GOLDEN-COLLARED WOODPECKER (Veniliornis cassini) – Seen at Ducke reserve.
LITTLE WOODPECKER (Veniliornis passerinus) – Seen around the Madeira river islands.
RED-STAINED WOODPECKER (Veniliornis affinis)
WHITE-THROATED WOODPECKER (Piculus leucolaemus) – On Marchantaria island.
YELLOW-THROATED WOODPECKER (Piculus flavigula)
GOLDEN-GREEN WOODPECKER (Piculus chrysochloros)
SPOT-BREASTED WOODPECKER (Colaptes punctigula) – Seen twice at islands in the Madeira river.
WAVED WOODPECKER (Celeus undatus) – During our first visit to the tower we missed this bird but we nailed the second time. It did not come easily though, it took a while to show itself but once it happened it was wonderful. Nicely seen and photographed!
SCALE-BREASTED WOODPECKER (Celeus grammicus)
CREAM-COLORED WOODPECKER (Celeus flavus) – We had a brief look from the tower our first visit morning. Later we had better looks in Anavilhanas.
RINGED WOODPECKER (Celeus torquatus) – We saw this species twice, but I think everybody will agree the best experience was seeing the adult female feeding the young during one of our boat outings at Jau National Park.
LINEATED WOODPECKER (Dryocopus lineatus)
RED-NECKED WOODPECKER (Campephilus rubricollis)
CRIMSON-CRESTED WOODPECKER (Campephilus melanoleucos)
Falconidae (Falcons and Caracaras)
LINED FOREST-FALCON (Micrastur gilvicollis) – It was heard at Camp 41 but it did not cooperate to come into view. [*]
BLACK CARACARA (Daptrius ater)
Spotted Puffbird (Photo by participants David & Judy Smith)
SOUTHERN CARACARA (Caracara plancus)
YELLOW-HEADED CARACARA (Milvago chimachima)
BAT FALCON (Falco rufigularis)
Psittacidae (Parrots)
WHITE-EYED PARAKEET (Aratinga leucophthalma) – Very common around the hotel in Manaus.
BROWN-THROATED PARAKEET (Aratinga pertinax) – Seeing in Jau National Park.
CHESTNUT-FRONTED MACAW (Ara severus)
RED-AND-GREEN MACAW (Ara chloropterus) – We had some flying by at different locations.
SCARLET MACAW (Ara macao) – A pair was nicely seen for an extended period of time when we were going to the Cock of the Rock lek in Presidente Figueiredo area.
BLUE-AND-YELLOW MACAW (Ara ararauna)
RED-BELLIED MACAW (Orthopsittaca manilata) – These moriche palm specialists were seen very well at Taruma, in Manaus.
BLUE-WINGED PARROTLET (Forpus xanthopterygius) – We saw some of this small psittacids at the same Softail's spot.
WHITE-WINGED PARAKEET (Brotogeris versicolurus)
GOLDEN-WINGED PARAKEET (Brotogeris chrysoptera)
TUI PARAKEET (Brotogeris sanctithomae)
SAPPHIRE-RUMPED PARROTLET (Touit purpuratus)
ORANGE-CHEEKED PARROT (Pyrilia barrabandi) – We had some flying by.
CAICA PARROT (Pyrilia caica) – We enjoyed great views from this species from the INPA tower.
SHORT-TAILED PARROT (Graydidascalus brachyurus)
BLUE-HEADED PARROT (Pionus menstruus)
DUSKY PARROT (Pionus fuscus) – Seen well and several times during the tour.
FESTIVE PARROT (Amazona festiva) – Look at the red rump!
ORANGE-WINGED PARROT (Amazona amazonica) – We came across several of these birds during the tour.
MEALY PARROT (Amazona farinosa)
RED-FAN PARROT (Deroptyus accipitrinus) – Well seen from the INPA tower.
Thamnophilidae (Typical Antbirds)
FASCIATED ANTSHRIKE (Cymbilaimus lineatus)
The tiny Painted Tody-Flycatcher...we had to be up in the tower to get views this great of this canopy-dweller. (Photo by participants David & Judy Smith)
BLACK-CRESTED ANTSHRIKE (Sakesphorus canadensis) – A species with an unusual distribution throughout its range that includes six subspecies. I believe we saw S. c. loretoyacuensis.
GLOSSY ANTSHRIKE (Sakesphorus luctuosus) – We had a male and female at Miracauera. What a nice rufous crest on the female!
BARRED ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus doliatus) – We encountered a nicely responsive and cooperative pair at the softail's spot.
MOUSE-COLORED ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus murinus)
CASTELNAU'S ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus cryptoleucus)
BLACKISH-GRAY ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus nigrocinereus) – Seen well at Anavilhanas archipelago.
NORTHERN SLATY-ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus punctatus) – This is a species with a very disjunct distribution. Four subspecies are recognized based on the morphological variations, and this is the nominate race which was formerly known as the Guianan Slaty Antshrike.
AMAZONIAN ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus amazonicus cinereiceps)
DUSKY-THROATED ANTSHRIKE (Thamnomanes ardesiacus) – One of leading species on the mixed flocks we encountered in the forest.
CINEREOUS ANTSHRIKE (Thamnomanes caesius) – The other leading species that acts more as a sentinel was well seen during our hikes in the forest.
SPOT-WINGED ANTSHRIKE (Pygiptila stellaris)
BROWN-BELLIED ANTWREN (Epinecrophylla gutturalis) – This is another of the specialities of the trip that was well seen around Camp 41. A species restricted to the Guianan shield area.
Our group with with the great Iracema crew (Photo by participants David & Judy Smith)
CHERRIE'S ANTWREN (Myrmotherula cherriei) – This black and white striped little gem was well seen during our trip in Jau National park.
KLAGES'S ANTWREN (Myrmotherula klagesi) – A Brazilian endemic that was seen very well in Jau as well. Klages first collected this species from the Santarem area in the 19th century. In 1993-94 Mario Cohn-Haft found it in Anavilhanas. [E]
WHITE-FLANKED ANTWREN (Myrmotherula axillaris) – Another species that was part of the mixed flocks we encountered in the forest.
LONG-WINGED ANTWREN (Myrmotherula longipennis) – Ditto.
GRAY ANTWREN (Myrmotherula menetriesii) – Ditto.
LEADEN ANTWREN (Myrmotherula assimilis) – This gray-colored antwren is known to prefer old river islands, like those we saw at Anavilhanas archipelago.
SPOT-BACKED ANTWREN (Herpsilochmus dorsimaculatus)
ASH-WINGED ANTWREN (Terenura spodioptila) –
GRAY ANTBIRD (Cercomacra cinerascens)
ASH-BREASTED ANTBIRD (Myrmoborus lugubris) – This species is restricted to the vegetation along the Amazon river from Northeast Peru and its tributaries all the way to Para.
BLACK-FACED ANTBIRD (Myrmoborus myotherinus)
GUIANAN WARBLING-ANTBIRD (Hypocnemis cantator) – One of the six species that used to be included in Warbling Antbird.
YELLOW-BROWED ANTBIRD (Hypocnemis hypoxantha) – A favorite of David's. Was nicely seen (and photographed) on our way to the INPA tower the last morning in Manaus.
BLACK-CHINNED ANTBIRD (Hypocnemoides melanopogon) – This antbird, which has a strong association with water, was seen twice.
BLACK-AND-WHITE ANTBIRD (Myrmochanes hemileucus) – An island specialist that was also seen very well.
BLACK-HEADED ANTBIRD (HELLMAYR'S) (Percnostola rufifrons subcristata) – The bird we saw in this trip is the race subcristata.
FERRUGINOUS-BACKED ANTBIRD (Myrmeciza ferruginea) – We saw this handsome antbird in Camp 41.
The Crested Owl we saw so well. (Photo by participants David & Judy Smith)
RUFOUS-THROATED ANTBIRD (Gymnopithys rufigula) – This species was also in the same ant swarm and was well seen.
SPOT-BACKED ANTBIRD (Hylophylax naevius) – We saw a pair on the terra firme trail in Jau National Park.
COMMON SCALE-BACKED ANTBIRD (Willisornis poecilinotus) – This species was seen twice. First during our capuchin bird quest in Camp 41 and later the last day on our way to the tower.
Conopophagidae (Gnateaters)
CHESTNUT-BELTED GNATEATER (Conopophaga aurita) – Bret's strategy to get these birds excited worked very well by playing their vocalizations during our morning hike! When we were back in the afternoon, there were some birds singing spontaneously. Needless to say, they responded very well to playback and after some effort we got great views of a nice male.
Grallariidae (Antpittas)
VARIEGATED ANTPITTA (Grallaria varia) [*]
SPOTTED ANTPITTA (Hylopezus macularius) [*]
THRUSH-LIKE ANTPITTA (Myrmothera campanisona) [*]
Formicariidae (Antthrushes)
RUFOUS-CAPPED ANTTHRUSH (Formicarius colma) – We had great views of a male in Camp 41.
BLACK-FACED ANTTHRUSH (Formicarius analis) – And this one too!
Furnariidae (Ovenbirds and Woodcreepers)
SHORT-BILLED LEAFTOSSER (Sclerurus rufigularis) [*]
SPOT-THROATED WOODCREEPER (Certhiasomus stictolaemus) – Seen in Camp 41.
OLIVACEOUS WOODCREEPER (Sittasomus griseicapillus) – First seen at Ducke reserve and later in Jau National Park where it was also heard.
PLAIN-BROWN WOODCREEPER (Dendrocincla fuliginosa) – Seen at Ducke and Camp 41.
WHITE-CHINNED WOODCREEPER (Dendrocincla merula) – We saw two individuals foraging in the ant swarm at Camp 41.
WEDGE-BILLED WOODCREEPER (Glyphorynchus spirurus) – The smallest of the woodcreepers was seeing several times particularly during the first part of the tour.
CINNAMON-THROATED WOODCREEPER (Dendrexetastes rufigula) – One seen at Ducke.
LONG-BILLED WOODCREEPER (Nasica longirostris) – We saw this spectacular woodcreeper very well and twice! The first time in Anavilhanas and later at one of the islands in the Madeira river.
Leaving the Iracema for a morning birding in the Anavilhanas Archipelago. (Video clip copyright guide Bret Whitney)
RED-BILLED WOODCREEPER (Hylexetastes perrotii) – This specialty was seen very well during our first outing in Ducke. Later we saw it again in Camp 41.
STRIPED WOODCREEPER (Xiphorhynchus obsoletus) – This is a bird we saw during our outing in the Chavascal area in Jau National Park.
OCELLATED WOODCREEPER (Xiphorhynchus ocellatus)
CHESTNUT-RUMPED WOODCREEPER (Xiphorhynchus pardalotus) – This woodcreeper was seen and heard every day at Camp 41.
BUFF-THROATED WOODCREEPER (Xiphorhynchus guttatus) – On the West bank of the Negro river.
STRAIGHT-BILLED WOODCREEPER (Dendroplex picus) – Seen very well in Anavilhanas where we had great studies of this bird and following species.
ZIMMER'S WOODCREEPER (Dendroplex kienerii) – We had great views to compare the differences with the previous species. It was fascinating to hear Bret's story about following this bird for hours until he was able to get the first recording ever of its vocalization.
CURVE-BILLED SCYTHEBILL (Campylorhamphus procurvoides) – Finally, our last day was also our last chance and it happened! We had great looks around the INPA tower.
LINEATED WOODCREEPER (Lepidocolaptes albolineatus)
PLAIN XENOPS (Xenops minutus) – We saw this species in a mixed flock in camp 41.
POINT-TAILED PALMCREEPER (Berlepschia rikeri) – I can't believe how easily we saw this bird! It normally takes a lot of work and effort to get the kind of views we did. Just great!
RUFOUS-TAILED XENOPS (Microxenops milleri) – In Camp 41.
LESSER HORNERO (Furnarius minor) – This island specialist was well seen in the island where Lynn had her infamous encounter with the mud.
RUFOUS-RUMPED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (Philydor erythrocercum) – Seen at Camp 41.
Scarlet Macaws (Photo by participants David & Judy Smith)
PLAIN SOFTTAIL (Thripophaga fusciceps obidensis) – Now, these birds are likely to be split. I remember Bret explaining how this subspecies built their nest with two entrances instead of one, as the other subspecies do. Stay tuned for this!
RUSTY-BACKED SPINETAIL (Cranioleuca vulpina) [*]
PARKER'S SPINETAIL (Cranioleuca vulpecula) – An island specialist that was seen well during one of our outings on the Madeira river islands.
SPECKLED SPINETAIL (Cranioleuca gutturata)
SCALED SPINETAIL (Cranioleuca muelleri) – We got lucky with this rare and localized species that we saw on the Machado island.
YELLOW-CHINNED SPINETAIL (Certhiaxis cinnamomeus) – Another island specialist that was seen very well.
RED-AND-WHITE SPINETAIL (Certhiaxis mustelinus) – Also this one, which was seen on the same island.
PALE-BREASTED SPINETAIL (Synallaxis albescens) – Another of the island specialists we saw on the tour.
DARK-BREASTED SPINETAIL (Synallaxis albigularis) – This also was part of our spinetail morning.
WHITE-BELLIED SPINETAIL (Synallaxis propinqua) – And this one too!
PLAIN-CROWNED SPINETAIL (Synallaxis gujanensis) – Another spinetail that was seen our last day birding on the islands.
Tyrannidae (Tyrant Flycatchers)
WHITE-LORED TYRANNULET (Ornithion inerme) [*]
SOUTHERN BEARDLESS-TYRANNULET (Camptostoma obsoletum)
YELLOW-CROWNED TYRANNULET (Tyrannulus elatus)
FOREST ELAENIA (Myiopagis gaimardii)
GRAY ELAENIA (Myiopagis caniceps)
YELLOW-CROWNED ELAENIA (Myiopagis flavivertex)
SMALL-BILLED ELAENIA (Elaenia parvirostris) [a]
BROWNISH ELAENIA (Elaenia pelzelni) – Another island specialist that was well seen during our tour.
RUFOUS-CROWNED ELAENIA (Elaenia ruficeps) – This bird was seen very well at the campina in Lages.
RIVER TYRANNULET (Serpophaga hypoleuca) – Seen on the islands of the Madeira river.
MCCONNELL'S FLYCATCHER (Mionectes macconnelli) – At least one sighting in Camp 41 with a canopy mixed flock.
OLIVE-GREEN TYRANNULET (Phylloscartes virescens) – Another Guianan specialty. This bird has a very localized range within Brazil and we got it!
SLENDER-FOOTED TYRANNULET (Zimmerius gracilipes)
GUIANAN TYRANNULET (Zimmerius acer) – This bird is a split from the previous species and is found North of the Amazon and East of the Negro river across Brazil all the way into the Guianas.
AMAZONIAN TYRANNULET (Inezia subflava)
RINGED ANTPIPIT (Corythopis torquatus) – This bird was mostly heard despite the leaders' attempts to get it in view. [*]
Large-billed Tern (Photo by participants David & Judy Smith)
SHORT-TAILED PYGMY-TYRANT (Myiornis ecaudatus) – This smallest of the passerines was seeing very well from the INPA tower.
SNETHLAGE'S TODY-TYRANT (Hemitriccus minor pallens) – We saw this little gem very well in Anavilhanas, which offers plenty of seasonal flooded forest. It was great to hear about the naming of the species honoring the German ornithologist Emilia Snethlage.
WHITE-EYED TODY-TYRANT (Hemitriccus zosterops zosterops) – We saw this species on the terra firme trail at Jau National Park.
WHITE-EYED TODY-TYRANT (Hemitriccus zosterops rothschildi) – And this one in Camp 41, where it was apparently nesting due its behavior.
TODY-TYRANT SP. (Hemitriccus sp. nov.?) – This new species of tody tyrant was seen in the Chavascal.
RUSTY-FRONTED TODY-FLYCATCHER (Poecilotriccus latirostris) – We heard and saw this bird at the Softail's spot.
SPOTTED TODY-FLYCATCHER (Todirostrum maculatum)
PAINTED TODY-FLYCATCHER (Todirostrum pictum) – What a gem! We enjoyed great looks at eye level from the tower.
YELLOW-OLIVE FLYCATCHER (Tolmomyias sulphurescens) – We saw the subspecies insignis, which also is an island specialist.
YELLOW-MARGINED FLYCATCHER (Tolmomyias assimilis)
YELLOW-BREASTED FLYCATCHER (Tolmomyias flaviventris) – When we were watching a pair of Cinereous Becards, this bird came and chased them away.
CINNAMON-CRESTED SPADEBILL (Platyrinchus saturatus) – Seen well in Camp 41.
GOLDEN-CROWNED SPADEBILL (Platyrinchus coronatus) – Ditto.
WHITE-CRESTED SPADEBILL (Platyrinchus platyrhynchos) – Also this one at Camp 41.
CINNAMON MANAKIN-TYRANT (Neopipo cinnamomea) [*]
WHISKERED FLYCATCHER (Myiobius barbatus) – The flycatchers of this genus have a very distinctive light-colored rump, which was very helpful to I.D. this bird.
FUSCOUS FLYCATCHER (CAMPINA) (Cnemotriccus fuscatus duidae) – Another of the campina birds seen in Lages.
FUSCOUS FLYCATCHER (FUSCOUS) (Cnemotriccus fuscatus fuscatior) – And this was seen during our islands outings.
WHITE-HEADED MARSH TYRANT (Arundinicola leucocephala)
RUFOUS-TAILED FLATBILL (Ramphotrigon ruficauda)
RUFOUS-TAILED ATTILA (Attila phoenicurus) – A bird caught Bret's eye when we were birding the Chavascal area of Jau, and it turned out to be this species, an austral migrant that breeds in Southeast Brazil but winters as far North as Venezuela. Interestingly, in the Handbook of the Birds of the World there is no information regarding the species breeding. [a]
CINNAMON ATTILA (Attila cinnamomeus) – We found this bird in Anavilhanas.
DULL-CAPPED ATTILA (Attila bolivianus) – We had great looks at a very responsive bird in Machado island.
Point-tailed Palmcreeper was one of the palm specialists we saw well. (Photo by participants David & Judy Smith)
SIRYSTES (Sirystes sibilator) [*]
GRAYISH MOURNER (Rhytipterna simplex)
SWAINSON'S FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus swainsoni) – A species that The Handbook of the Birds of the World describes as "a taxonomically complex group; in need of revision that carefully integrates molecular and morphological data." It includes some subspecies that are austral migrants, however the subspecies we saw: M. s. phaenotus is not and occurs in SE Venezuela, W Guyana and Northern Brazil.
SHORT-CRESTED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus ferox)
LESSER KISKADEE (Pitangus lictor)
GREAT KISKADEE (Pitangus sulphuratus)
BOAT-BILLED FLYCATCHER (Megarynchus pitangua)
RUSTY-MARGINED FLYCATCHER (Myiozetetes cayanensis)
SOCIAL FLYCATCHER (Myiozetetes similis)
YELLOW-THROATED FLYCATCHER (Conopias parvus)
THREE-STRIPED FLYCATCHER (Conopias trivirgatus)
STREAKED FLYCATCHER (Myiodynastes maculatus)
ISLAND STREAKED FLYCATCHER (Myiodynastes [maculatus] sp. nov.)
PIRATIC FLYCATCHER (Legatus leucophaius)
VARIEGATED FLYCATCHER (Empidonomus varius)
CROWNED SLATY FLYCATCHER (Empidonomus aurantioatrocristatus) [a]
SULPHURY FLYCATCHER (Tyrannopsis sulphurea) – This is one of the "Moriche palm specialists" we saw in Taruma, near Manaus.
WHITE-THROATED KINGBIRD (Tyrannus albogularis) [a]
TROPICAL KINGBIRD (Tyrannus melancholicus)
FORK-TAILED FLYCATCHER (Tyrannus savana)
Cotingidae (Cotingas)
GUIANAN RED-COTINGA (Phoenicircus carnifex) – Another of the specialties of the tour. We got very lucky and enjoyed great looks at this bird that we sometimes miss on tour.
Black-spotted Barbet, another canopy species seen beautifully from the tower. (Photo by participants David & Judy Smith)
AMAZONIAN UMBRELLABIRD (Cephalopterus ornatus) – We almost missed this bird but we took the boat around an island and were able to find a male perched on the top of an emergent tree...phew!
CAPUCHINBIRD (Perissocephalus tricolor) – Another incredible bird and specialty of our tour. We got great views of a few males and we even heard them responding to the playback. We even got some to call back!
PURPLE-BREASTED COTINGA (Cotinga cotinga) – It was really amazing to find this bird in Jau. It is certainly a species we don't find regularly on this tour.
SPANGLED COTINGA (Cotinga cayana)
SCREAMING PIHA (Lipaugus vociferans) – Mostly heard but also seen.
POMPADOUR COTINGA (Xipholena punicea) – We enjoyed several views at different locations of some males but a special mention goes to the female with a chick in the nest in front of the tower. [N]
BARE-NECKED FRUITCROW (Gymnoderus foetidus)
Pipridae (Manakins)
SAFFRON-CRESTED TYRANT-MANAKIN (Neopelma chrysocephalum) – Another species that we saw very well in the campina.
TINY TYRANT-MANAKIN (Tyranneutes virescens) – "Nicky the Greek"
WHITE-FRONTED MANAKIN (Lepidothrix serena) – This is another specialty bird of the tour. The range of this bird lies within the Guianan Shied.
BLACK MANAKIN (Xenopipo atronitens) – Seen in Lages.
YELLOW-CROWNED MANAKIN (Heterocercus flavivertex) – Also seen in the campina.
WHITE-CROWNED MANAKIN (Pipra pipra) – A female was spotted at Camp 41. David also got views of a male our last morning going to the INPA tower.
WIRE-TAILED MANAKIN (Pipra filicauda) – Spectacular! Seen very well in Anavilhanas at Jau National Park.
GOLDEN-HEADED MANAKIN (Pipra erythrocephala) – A male flew across the igarapé when we were birding from the boats. It was around the same area where the cotingas were feeding.
WING-BARRED PIPRITES (Piprites chloris) [*]
Tityridae (Tityras and Allies)
BLACK-TAILED TITYRA (Tityra cayana)
MASKED TITYRA (Tityra semifasciata)
VARZEA SCHIFFORNIS (Schiffornis major)
BROWN-WINGED SCHIFFORNIS (Schiffornis turdina) – This species was split from the Thrush-like Schiffornis.
CINEREOUS MOURNER (Laniocera hypopyrra) [*]
Yellow-browed Sparrow gave us some fine views on the river islands. (Photo by participants David & Judy Smith)
WHITE-WINGED BECARD (Pachyramphus polychopterus) [*]
GLOSSY-BACKED BECARD (Pachyramphus surinamus) – We had the first looks of this bird from the ground during our outing in Ducke. The following day from the INPA tower we had much better looks at eye level.
PINK-THROATED BECARD (Pachyramphus minor) – We saw a female in Camp 41.
Vireonidae (Vireos)
RED-EYED VIREO (MIGRATORY CHIVI) (Vireo olivaceus chivi) – The subspecies solimoensis that we saw is a breeding resident.
LEMON-CHESTED GREENLET (Hylophilus thoracicus) [*]
ASHY-HEADED GREENLET (Hylophilus pectoralis) – Seen at Miracauera during our last island stop.
BROWN-HEADED GREENLET (Hylophilus brunneiceps)
DUSKY-CAPPED GREENLET (Hylophilus hypoxanthus) [*]
BUFF-CHEEKED GREENLET (Hylophilus muscicapinus)
TAWNY-CROWNED GREENLET (Hylophilus ochraceiceps)
SLATY-CAPPED SHRIKE-VIREO (Vireolanius leucotis)
RUFOUS-BROWED PEPPERSHRIKE (Cyclarhis gujanensis)
Hirundinidae (Swallows)
WHITE-THIGHED SWALLOW (Atticora tibialis)
SOUTHERN ROUGH-WINGED SWALLOW (Stelgidopteryx ruficollis)
GRAY-BREASTED MARTIN (Progne chalybea)
A river dolphin has an eerie glow in the heavily stained, tannin-rich waters of the Rio Negro. (Photo by participants David & Judy Smith)
WHITE-WINGED SWALLOW (Tachycineta albiventer)
BARN SWALLOW (Hirundo rustica)
Troglodytidae (Wrens)
WING-BANDED WREN (Microcerculus bambla) – First heard in Ducke and later seen VERY well in the terra firme trail in Jau National Park.
HOUSE WREN (Troglodytes aedon)
CORAYA WREN (Pheugopedius coraya)
BUFF-BREASTED WREN (Cantorchilus leucotis)
MUSICIAN WREN (Cyphorhinus arada) – Seen in Camp 41
Polioptilidae (Gnatcatchers)
COLLARED GNATWREN (Microbates collaris) [*]
TROPICAL GNATCATCHER (Polioptila plumbea)
Donacobiidae (Donacobius)
BLACK-CAPPED DONACOBIUS (Donacobius atricapilla)
Turdidae (Thrushes and Allies)
PALE-BREASTED THRUSH (Turdus leucomelas)
HAUXWELL'S THRUSH (Turdus hauxwelli)
BLACK-BILLED THRUSH (Turdus ignobilis)
Parulidae (New World Warblers)
MASKED YELLOWTHROAT (Geothlypis aequinoctialis)
Thraupidae (Tanagers and Allies)
RED-CAPPED CARDINAL (Paroaria gularis)
RED-BILLED PIED TANAGER (Lamprospiza melanoleuca) – We had great views of some birds at Ducke reserve.
HOODED TANAGER (Nemosia pileata) – Male and female seen on the islands on the Madeira river.
ORANGE-HEADED TANAGER (Thlypopsis sordida) – Also on islands.
FLAME-CRESTED TANAGER (Tachyphonus cristatus) – As part of the canopy flocks we saw from the tower and in Camp 41.
A fine view of the meetings of the waters between the clear Rio Negro and the silt-laden Amazon. (Photo by participants David & Judy Smith)
SILVER-BEAKED TANAGER (Ramphocelus carbo)
BLUE-GRAY TANAGER (Thraupis episcopus)
PALM TANAGER (Thraupis palmarum)
DOTTED TANAGER (Tangara varia) – What great spotting! This species is hard to see (or easy to miss) but we got lucky this time.
SPOTTED TANAGER (Tangara punctata)
PARADISE TANAGER (Tangara chilensis)
BLUE DACNIS (Dacnis cayana)
PURPLE HONEYCREEPER (Cyanerpes caeruleus)
RED-LEGGED HONEYCREEPER (Cyanerpes cyaneus)
GREEN HONEYCREEPER (Chlorophanes spiza)
YELLOW-BACKED TANAGER (Hemithraupis flavicollis)
BICOLORED CONEBILL (Conirostrum bicolor) – We found this species on the Madeira river islands.
PEARLY-BREASTED CONEBILL (Conirostrum margaritae) – We also found this species at the Madeira river islands. The main difference with the previous species is that this one is highly specialized on Cecropia trees.
ORANGE-FRONTED YELLOW-FINCH (Sicalis columbiana)
BLUE-BLACK GRASSQUIT (Volatinia jacarina)
LINED SEEDEATER (Sporophila lineola) [a]
CHESTNUT-BELLIED SEEDEATER (Sporophila castaneiventris)
BANANAQUIT (Coereba flaveola)
GRAYISH SALTATOR (Saltator coerulescens)
BUFF-THROATED SALTATOR (Saltator maximus)
Emberizidae (Buntings and New World Sparrows)
YELLOW-BROWED SPARROW (Ammodramus aurifrons)
Cardinalidae (Cardinals and Allies)
YELLOW-GREEN GROSBEAK (Caryothraustes canadensis) – We heard one at Ducke and later had a fly by on the Camp 41 road. [*]
Icteridae (Troupials and Allies)
RED-BREASTED BLACKBIRD (Sturnella militaris) – Those males in the new island put up an amazing show with their displays.
Our fantastic view of the Rufous Potoo. (Photo by participants David & Judy Smith)
YELLOW-HOODED BLACKBIRD (Chrysomus icterocephalus)
SHINY COWBIRD (Molothrus bonariensis)
ORANGE-BACKED TROUPIAL (Icterus croconotus)
SOLITARY BLACK CACIQUE (Cacicus solitarius)
RED-RUMPED CACIQUE (Cacicus haemorrhous)
YELLOW-RUMPED CACIQUE (Cacicus cela)
GREEN OROPENDOLA (Psarocolius viridis)
CRESTED OROPENDOLA (Psarocolius decumanus)
OLIVE OROPENDOLA (Psarocolius bifasciatus yuracares)
Fringillidae (Siskins, Crossbills, and Allies)
GOLDEN-BELLIED EUPHONIA (Euphonia chrysopasta) – AKA White-lored Euphonia.
GOLDEN-SIDED EUPHONIA (Euphonia cayennensis)
MAMMALS
LONG-NOSED BAT (Rhynchonycteris naso)
GHOST BAT SP. (Diclidurus scutatus)
GREATER BULLDOG BAT (Noctilio leporinus) – Flying all around over the water during our first night outing.
GOLDEN-HANDED TAMARIN (Saguinus midas) – An always hard to see species of monkey that we saw twice: from the INPA tower first and then around Camp 41.
BRAZILIAN BARE-FACE TAMARIN (Saguinus bicolor) – This is also a species that we had been missing on recent tours. Fortunately we had excellent views of a group around our hotel grounds.
THREE-STRIPED NIGHT MONKEY (Aotus trivirgatus) – It was pretty neat to see the family of 5 (or 6?) in the hole of a tree.
RED HOWLER MONKEY (Alouatta seniculus) – When we thought we were going to have it "Heard Only," we had excellent views in Miracauera and later from the tower.
GUIANAN SAKI MONKEY (Pithecia pithecia)
BROWN BEARDED SAKI MONKEY (Chiropotes satanas) – We got extremely lucky with this species since we normally come across them half of the time we do this tour.
BLACK UAKARI MONKEY (Cacajao malanocephalus)
BROWN CAPUCHIN (Cebus apella)
SOUTHERN TWO-TOED SLOTH (Choloepus didactylus)
A family of Three-striped Night Monkeys (Photo by participants David & Judy Smith)
GUIANAN SQUIRREL (Sciurus aestuans)
NORTHERN AMAZON RED SQUIRREL (Sciurus igniventris)
NEOTROPICAL PYGMY SQUIRREL (Sciurillus pusillus)
BRAZILIAN PORCUPINE (Coendou prehensilis) – We saw at least two individuals sleeping on top of some trees in Taruma.
RED-RUMPED AGOUTI (Dasyprocta agouti)
AMAZON RIVER DOLPHIN (Inia geoffrensis)
TUCUXI (Sotalia fluviatilis)
BROWN BROCKET DEER (Mazama gouazoubira) – In Camp 41.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
The Other Creatures Nocturnal wasps (Apoica pallens): While we hiked to the Capuchinbird lek, we found an amazing wasp nest. I found a paper from Orlando Tobias Silveira and collaborators that studied some of these wasps in the Manaus area and this what it said: "These wasps are popular on account of their aggressive defensive behavior and beauty of nest architecture, both aspects representing emergent social features. They are mainly carnivorous, the food items consisting of arthropod preys, primarily insects of various orders but with a great prevalence of lepidopteran caterpillars. Larval and adult diets also include nectar and other vegetal juices. Most species construct aerial nests, height from the ground varying with species preferences and nest site availability."
Gladiator Treefrog (Hypsiboas boans): The most common tree frog we found during our night outing.
Cane Toad (Bufo marinus): We came across several of these big toads the same night.
Brown Tree-Boa (Corallus hortulanus): This was the species of boa we found during our night outing.
Totals for the tour: 427 bird taxa and 21 mammal taxa