tour report - birding & wildlife tours, cruises & expeditions

1 Birdquest: Southeast Brazil 2005

SOUTHEAST BRAZIL

7 - 30 OCTOBER 2005

TOUR REPORT

LEADER: MARK VAN BEIRS This Southeast Brazil tour covered the rich Atlantic Forests from the state of Espirito Santo south to Santa Catarina and obviously concentrated on finding as many of its avian specialities as possible. On this trip we recorded 467 species including 169 Atlantic Forest endemics (species that also occur in northeast Argentina and east Paraguay) and observed many rarely-observed critters. The bird of the trip was, without any doubt, the truly spectacular Long-trained Nightjar that showed so very, very well. We came away with a long list of gripping and much-wanted quality species such as Solitary Tinamou, Masked Duck, White-necked and Mantled Hawks, Black-fronted Piping-Guan, Ash-throated Crake, Blue-winged Macaw, Blue-throated Parakeet, Red-tailed and Red-browed Parrots, Tawny-browed and Rusty-barred Owls, Silky-tailed Nightjar, Saw-billed Hermit, Black-breasted Plovercrest, Frilled and Festive Coquettes, Three-toed Jacamar, Blond-crested Woodpecker, Black-billed Scythebill, Araucaria Tit-Spinetail, Itatiaia Spinetail, Giant, Tufted, Large-tailed and White-bearded Antshrikes, Black-hooded and Marsh Antwrens, Variegated and Speckle-breasted Antpittas, Slaty Bristlefront, Shrike-like, Swallow-tailed, White-winged and Black-and-gold Cotingas, Buff-throated Purpletuft, Bare-throated Bellbird, Sharpbill, Kaempfer’s and Fork-tailed Tody-Tyrants, Rufous-tailed Attila, Azure Jay, Black-backed Tanager and Buffy-fronted and Temminck’s Seedeaters. Quantities of superb food and graceful hospitality definitely added to the enjoyment of this splendid trip. The tour started with a long flight from London bound for Rio de Janeiro, but sadly one of our Swedish participants never made it on time, because of a bird-strike at Gothenburg – how ironic. Luckily he managed to join us a day later. After some more flying and driving our main contingent finally made it to the small town of Santa Teresa in the minute state of Espirito Santo, where the tour started in earnest. Our introductory birding in the gardens of Augusto Ruschi’s museum was pure magic, as we were able to enjoy the antics of no less than 16 species of splendid hummingbirds at close range!! The Black Jacobins were the most showy and pugnacious of the lot, but the tiny and extremely attractive Frilled Coquettes really stole the show. The other interesting sugar-driven visitors included Rufous-breasted, Scale-throated and Planalto Hermits, Swallow-tailed Hummingbird, White-vented Violetear, Versicoloured, Sapphire-spangled, Glittering-bellied and Glittering-throated Emeralds, Violet-capped Woodnymph, White-throated and Sombre Hummingbirds, Brazilian Ruby and Amethyst Woodstar. After witnessing all this frenzied activity around the feeders, we wandered


around the gardens and picked up Short-tailed Hawk, Yellow-lored Tody-Flycatcher, Orange-headed, Golden-chevroned and Gilt-edged Tanagers and quite a selection of common and widespread tyrant flycatchers. Our first dinner in Brazil obviously came with the obligatory and much-appreciated caipirinhas. Next morning at dawn found us in the nearby Augusto Ruschi Biological Reserve (formerly called Nova Lombardia) where lots of Atlantic Forest endemics offered great looks. Coffee plantations, meadows and areas of secondary growth surround this isolated patch of excellent forest and here we birded along a wide track. Bird activity was at a premium and new species kept coming all the time. Particular highlights included Rufous-thighed Kite, an obliging Blackish Rail, Maroon-bellied Parakeet, Surucua Trogon, handsome Spot-billed Toucanets, Channel-billed Toucan (of the distinctive race ariel), Scaled Woodcreeper, Wing-banded Hornero, Spix’s Spinetail, Buff-fronted, Black-capped and White-eyed Foliage-gleaners, Sooretama Slaty Antshrike, dancing Swallow-tailed Manakins, the very localized Wied’s Tyrant-Manakin, the unique Sharpbill, Hooded Berryeater, the incomparable Bare-throated Bellbird, Grey-capped and Oustalet’s Tyrannulets, the tiny Hangnest Tody-Tyrant, Shear-tailed Grey Tyrant, Grey-hooded Attila, Greenish Mourner, Green-backed Becard and Cinnamon, Azure-shouldered and Ruby-crowned Tanagers. Throughout the day we heard the distinctive and rather deafening chorus of Brown Howlers and Masked Titi Monkeys. Another morning in this lovely reserve yielded Black Hawk-Eagle, Slaty-breasted Wood-Rail, Ochre-breasted Foliage-gleaner, Spot-backed Antshrike, Cinnamon-vented Piha, a pair of Yellow-rumped Flycatchers at the nest, Euler’s Flycatcher, Greyish Mourner, Rufous-headed, Red-necked and Burnished-buff Tanagers and Violaceous, Golden-rumped and Chestnut-bellied Euphonias. After a hearty lunch we drove north to the Reserva Natural da Vale do Rio Doce. A lake en route produced Brazilian Teal, Lesser Yellow-headed Vulture, some obliging Burrowing Owls, White-rumped Swallow, White-browed Blackbird and a naughty Snail Kite that caught a tiny chick of a Purple Gallinule. The parents were frantically trying to protect their offspring, but to no avail. Snail Kites obviously don’t just eat snails!! Best of all were the six Masked Duck in non-breeding plumage that were hiding amongst floating vegetation. Upon arrival at Rio Doce we strolled around our lovely chalets where Picazuro Pigeon, Plain Parakeet, Ferruginous Pygmy Owl, Black-necked Aracari and a party of cute Geoffroy’s Marmosets showed. A full day exploration of the magnificent lowland forests of Rio Doce was quite productive, although at times the birding seemed really slow. The Red-billed Curassow was only seen by a few lucky souls but the parrot guild was well represented by Ochre-marked and White-eared Parakeets and Orange-winged, Mealy and Blue-headed Parrots. A Least Pygmy Owl sat angrily, a Minute Hermit posed for all, a Yellow-eared Woodpecker terrorized a rotting tree, incredibly alluring Green-headed Tanagers flitted about in a fruiting bush and we also encountered a Coati and Red and Grey Brocket Deer. At a marshy area we found several ‘real’ Muscovy Duck, Peach-fronted Parakeet, Black-throated Mango, Southern Yellowthroat, a pair of Hooded Tanagers at the nest and several smart Brazilian Tanagers. During the afternoon break some of us saw a Ferruginous Pygmy Owl catch a Scaled Dove!! In the latter part of the day we added Crescent-chested Puffbird, adorable Red-headed Manakins, Eastern Sirystes, Yellow-green Grosbeak, Epaulet Oriole and a posing Great Potoo to the tally. A very cooperative Solitary Tinamou allowed intimate awesome studies and at dusk good numbers of Pauraques gave a great show. The day ended with a splendid performance by a glorious Tawny-browed Owl. Next day, at the nearby Sooretama Biological Reserve a bit of rain brightened everything up and along a splendid track through lovely forest we observed no less than seven Little Tinamous crossing the track, several Red-browed Amazons, a Pauraque nest with two incredibly camouflaged downy young, Striated Softtail, Plumbeous Antvireo, a female White-winged Cotinga, Eye-ringed Tody-Tyrant and some Red-rumped Agoutis. At a well-chosen viewpoint we picked up Grey-headed and Swallow-tailed Kites, Scaled Pigeon and a pair of Blue-winged Macaws, and along a forest edge a stunning male Chestnut-backed Antshrike and Yellowish Pipit were noted. Another morning at Sooretama added Laughing Falcon, Yellow-fronted Woodpecker, Pale-browed Treehunter, Scaled


Antbird, an obliging Rufous-capped Antthrush, several more White-winged Cotingas and an endearing Eared Pygmy-Tyrant to the list. Our afternoon drive via little-travelled dirt roads to the western border of the state gave us White Woodpecker, Swallow-wing, lots of Picazuro Pigeons, a pair of gorgeous Streamer-tailed Tyrants and Great Pampa-Finch. Next morning, accompanied by Ana and Pedro, the two biologists that rediscovered the Cherry-throated Tanager a few years ago, we searched, waited, hung about and hoped for these ultra rare gems to appear, but goddess Orni wouldn’t have it. It was very windy and hot and there was very little bird activity in the isolated forest block that is situated amidst huge pine and eucalypt plantations. White-necked Hawk, Ruddy Quail-Dove, Pallid and Rufous-capped Spinetails, Sharp-tailed Streamcreeper, Ferruginous and Ochre-rumped Antbirds, Pin-tailed Manakin, Grey-hooded Flycatcher and Rufous-crowned Greenlet provided some consolation. Next morning a final bit of frantic searching for the tanager, again didn’t produce the goods. We all felt a bit down, but we had tried. On the drive to Vitoria airport we picked up Bicoloured Conebill in a patch of mangrove and then we were flying to Sao Paulo and driving to distant Intervales. We arrived at this marvellous park in the dark, welcomed by two males Long-trained Nightjar on the dirt road, and settled into our cosy house. Mist and drizzle made our first day incredibly birdy and this was probably our best birding day of the tour. New birds kept appearing and there was activity everywhere. Along a wide track through bamboo-choked forest we found Rufous-capped Motmot, Ochre-collared Piculet, Green-barred Woodpecker, White-throated and Scalloped Woodcreepers, Olive Spinetail, White-browed and White-collared Foliage-gleaners, Giant and Tufted Antshrikes, Dusky-tailed and Squamate Antbirds, White-shouldered Fire-eye, Wing-barred Piprites, Three-striped Flycatcher, Brown, Red-crowned Ant, Olive-green and Brassy-breasted Tanagers, Uniform Finch, Buffy-fronted and Temminck’s Seedeaters, Black-throated Grosbeak and Golden-winged Cacique. In the afternoon we explored the open area around the chalets and a nearby trail and came away with treasures like Tropical Screech-Owl (at its daytime roost), Red-breasted Toucan, Red-eyed Thornbird, Swallow-tailed Cotinga (on its nest) and pretty Diademed Tanagers. Just before dusk several Short-tailed Nighthawks appeared and soon after we were admiring Silky-tailed and really spectacular Long-trained Nightjars. On our second day at Intervales more goodies kept coming and we spent quite a bit of time inside bushes waiting for inveterate skulkers to perform. Our very able man on the spot took us from marvel to marvel. A cracking male Large-tailed Antshrike, a rare White-bearded Antshrike, a magnificent Variegated Antpitta on its nest (!!) and a fabulous Slaty Bristlefront walking about at our feet were the obvious highlights, but other goodies included Rufous-thighed Hawk, Blue-bellied Parrot (but only brief views), Collared and Black-throated Trogons, White-spotted Woodpecker, Grey-bellied Spinetail, Tufted Antshrike, Star-throated Antwren, Ochre-rumped Antbird, White-breasted Tapaculo, Bare-throated Bellbird (several males at close range showing off their copper green faces), Ochre-faced Tody-Flycatcher, the unobtrusive Sao Paulo Tyrannulet, Bay-ringed Tyrannulet (scope views), White-throated Spadebill, Rufous-tailed Attila, Black-goggled and Fawn-breasted Tanagers and Sooty Grassquit. An after dinner walk produced a magnificent Rusty-barred Owl. Persistent rain marred our final morning at Intervales, but we still hiked up along a muddy trail to a favourite haunt of the one important bird we were still missing here: the exquisite Black-fronted Piping-Guan. Group morale was rather low, but we still continued and just as we were ready to return, we found a single bird in a fruiting tree. A much appreciated grand finale!!! Upon checking out we observed three different Swallow-tailed Cotingas. We then drove south into the state of Paraná, where imposing Paraná Pines (Araucaria or Monkey-puzzle Trees) dominate the landscape. Yellow-rumped Marshbird and Hooded Siskin were noted on the journey, and in late afternoon we reached our destination on the border with the state of Santa Catarina. Our accommodation was situated in a large forest clearing and after a great dinner we tried to lure Variable Screech-Owl into view, but it wouldn’t budge. A Nine-banded Armadillo saved the evening though.


Annoying persistent light rain ruined our first hours at the Volta Velha reserve, but thankfully this stopped by mid morning and soon we were observing splendours like Sooty Swift, Spot-backed Antshrike, Unicoloured Antwren, White-crested Tyrannulet, the little-known Kaempfer’s Tody-Tyrant, Restinga Tyrannulet, Neotropical River Warbler, Grassland Sparrow and best of all, a fabulous Black-backed Tanager. A quick look at the beach gave us Magnificent Frigatebird, Brown Booby and Sandwich and South American Terns. On the afternoon drive to Curitiba, we stopped at a cattail marsh where we were soon admiring the recently-described Marsh Antwren. A really bizarre habitat for an antbird!! Not much later we were yomping through another kind of marsh, where we eventually heard a Wetland Tapaculo at close range. Not the place where one would expect a tapaculo!! A Whistling Heron and a Wedge-tailed Grass-Finch did show well. Early next morning, in the bamboo-cloaked montane forest of the Serra da Graciosa we noted Variable Antshrike, lots of Hooded Berryeaters and Bare-throated Bellbirds, Greenish and Mottle-cheeked Tyrannulets, White-browed Warbler, Chestnut-headed and Chestnut-backed Tanagers and a Red-rumped Warbling-Finch before making our way north towards into the state of Sao Paulo. We really filled up on meat in a nice churrascaria, that splendid Brazilian invention, and in the late afternoon we explored a patch of restinga forest on the Sao Paulo coastline where we soon connected with the rare Red-tailed Parrot. A pair of Blond-crested Woodpeckers and a Long-billed Wren also performed. It took a while to locate our hotel on a secluded bit of beach, but in the morning we found American Oystercatcher, Semipalmated Plover and several White-rumped Sandpipers here. We then paid another visit to that area of restinga forest where we saw more Red-tailed Parrots, Azure Jay, Ochre-collared Piculets and displaying White-bearded Manakins. Later we travelled east along the magnificent coastline, with its many secluded bays and beaches to the holiday resort of Ubatuba. After checking into our snug and homely hotel, we had a look at a fantastic set of hummingbird feeders, where Saw-billed Hermit and Frilled and many Festive Coquettes seduced us. Several colourful species like Green-headed and Brazilian Tanagers could be admired at extremely close range and at dusk we marvelled at a couple of interacting Common Potoos just above our heads. That evening a spectacular thunderstorm spiced up our excellent dinner on the outside terrace of our lodgings. Rather heavy rain at dawn postponed our departure, and at our first stop at some more feeders we located a much-wanted Buff-throated Purpletuft on its tiny nest with a fluffy chick. What a cracker!! Nearby, a patch of secondary growth held a sweet Fork-tailed Tody-Tyrant, whilst a rare Mantled Hawk sat drying its wet plumage. An Ash-throated Crake was, uncharacteristically, walking in the open allowing for fantastic views. We also heard Spotted Bamboowren here. Another area of well preserved foothill forest only gave us Yellow-throated Woodpecker, Unicoloured Antwren and Scaled Antbird and a return visit to the smashing hummingbird feeders was much appreciated by the photographers. Our final bird at Ubatuba was a Rufous-thighed Hawk, before we continued our journey along the scenic coast into the state of Rio de Janeiro. In late afternoon we investigated an area of smashed up gallery forest along a small stream where White-barred Piculet, the localized Orange-eyed Thornbird, Yellow Tyrannulet and Lemon-chested Greenlet showed. At dawn, our efforts to get to grips with the fabulous Black-hooded Antwren were sabotaged by rain, but after three hours of waiting around, we were rewarded with smashing, awesome views of this very attractively patterned marvel of a bird. We then packed up and made our way inland to Itatiaia National Park, probably the most famous of Brazil’s protected reserves. In the afternoon we birded the surroundings of our hotel and enjoyed the already known hummers at the feeders. Tame Dusky-legged Guans and cooperative Sick’s Swifts were much appreciated, as were the 18 different kinds of dessert at dinner!! Incredible!! The higher reaches of Itatiaia National Park can easily be accessed along the brilliant Agulhas Negras road. An early start was called for and just after dawn we were already savouring the ornithological delights of this area. A couple of delightful Araucaria Tit-Spinetails posed low down on their favourite tree, a rare Itatiaia Spinetail checked us


out, an enchanting Speckle-breasted Antpitta made us all gasp, gorgeous Black-and-gold Cotingas sang their evocative song from bare treetops and Red-rumped and Bay-chested Warbling-Finches played hide and seek in fruiting bushes. Other new birds for the tour included White-tailed Hawk, Black-breasted Plovercrest, Sharp-billed Treehunter, Rufous-tailed Antbird, Brown-breasted Bamboo-Tyrant, Olivaceous Elaenia, Serra do Mar Tyrannulet, Blue-billed Black Tyrant and Thick-billed Saltator. Serious exploration of various tracks and trails in the lower reaches of Itatiaia added several more goodies to our ever growing list, including Planalto Woodcreeper, Black-billed Scythebill (finally, after having heard it several times), Bertoni’s Antbird, Brazilian and Such’s Antthrushes (but, sadly, a fairly poor performance of these two!!), a dazzling Rufous Gnateater and Velvety Black Tyrant. Another morning along the Agulhas Negras road finally got us Mouse-coloured Tapaculo, an unobtrusive Serra do Mar Tyrant-Manakin and both male and female Black-breasted Plovercrest for most of us. We then waved farewell to beautiful Itatiaia and drove east to the town of Teresópolis. Our approach through the foothills of the Serra dos Orgãos was not as impressive as it should have been, as the spectacular rock formations were kept hidden by low cloud. We got a warm welcome at our pleasant posada and an excellent dinner with wine and many caipirinhas got us in shape for the hike to come. The bird to see at the Serra dos Orgãos is the Grey-winged Cotinga and to reach its haunts one has to get into elfin forest, its preferred habitat. Everyone did a great job walking up and reached our favourite viewpoint without any problems. This beautiful spot offered the most stunning scenery of the tour. Fairly soon after arriving we briefly spotted two Grey-winged Cotingas on a near ridge and found a fruiting tree with attending Swallow-tailed Cotingas. Whilst trying to get better views of these beauties, disaster struck as amiable Mark Foster suffered a sudden and fatal, heart attack. An efficient, major rescue operation ensued with helicopters, fire brigade and army doctors, but it was all to no avail. Mark had died with his boots on, whilst pursuing his birding passion, accompanied by some good mates in one of his most cherished countries. On our last morning in Brazil we visited an area of dry woodland where no less than six Three-toed Jacamars were much valued. A poor little Ferruginous Pygmy Owl was studied in detail as it was mobbed by no less than 31(!) different species of birds, ranging from tiny Versicoloured Emeralds to Chestnut-backed Antshrikes and Great Kiskadees. A really fantastic spectacle. We also heard Tataupa Tinamou and Red-legged Seriema here and added White-fringed Antwren and Pileated Finch to the tally. Our ultimate birding venture took us to sandy dunes on the coast, where we soon connected with the very localized Restinga Antwren. Just before reaching the airport at Rio de Janeiro, we had a great view over the harbour, Sugarloaf, the statue of the Christ and the spectacular skyline of one of the most beautiful cities on earth.


SYSTEMATIC LIST Species which were heard but not seen are indicated by the symbol (H). Species which were not personally recorded by the leader are indicated by the symbol (NL). Subspecies names are given where known and/or appropriate, either in a comment or in parentheses TINAMIDAE Solitary Tinamou Tinamus solitarius: An excellent encounter with this rarely seen Atlantic Forest

endemic (nominate). We saw one walking along a track at Rio Doce where we obtained smashing views. We also regularly heard its mournful song. This species is treated as Near-Threatened in “Threatened Birds of the World”, BirdLife International’s magnificent book on the sad status of 10% of the world’s avifauna.

Little Tinamou Crypturellus soui: No less than eight (!) sightings in the forests of Espirito Santo (albigularis).

Brown Tinamou Crypturellus obsoletus: Easily the most often heard member of the family, as it was recorded on almost every day of the tour. A single bird was glimpsed at Ruschi’s Reserve. The tinamous of the genus Crypturellus are usually notoriously difficult to see. Most species of this family are polygamous, with the smaller males performing the domestic tasks and their eggs are beautifully coloured.

Yellow-legged Tinamou Crypturellus noctivagus (H): Heard at Sooretama, Rio Doce and in the state of Santa Catarina but always too far away (nominate). This Brazilian endemic is treated as Near-Threatened in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Variegated Tinamou Crypturellus variegates (H): We heard its distinctive voice at Rio Doce. Tataupa Tinamou Crypturellus tataupa (H): Heard at the Three-toed Jacamar site (nominate). Red-winged Tinamou Rhynchotus rufescens (H): We heard its whistle in the grasslands near Rio

Doce. PODICIPEDIDAE Least Grebe Podiceps dominicus: Good views of one in breeding attire on a pond at Ruschi’s

Reserve. Pied-billed Grebe Podilymbus podiceps: A couple on a lake near Linhares (antarcticus). FREGATIDAE Magnificent Frigatebird Fregata magnificens: These wonderful and spectacular kleptoparasites with

their highly distinctive flight silhouette were a regular feature of the coast. Frigatebirds have the lowest wing-loading (low weight in contrast to large wing area) of all birds, enabling them to be amongst the most nimble of fliers.

SULIDAE Brown Booby Sula leucogaster: Just four were noted off the coast of the state of Paraná (nominate). PHALACROCORACIDAE Neotropic Cormorant (Olivaceous Cormorant) Phalacrocorax brasilianus: Just a few observations of

the nominate race. PELECANIDAE Brown Pelican Pelecanus occidentalis: A single bird was noted along the coastline east of Rio de

Janeiro. Quite rare this far south.


ANATIDAE White-faced Whistling-Duck (White-faced Tree-Duck) Dendrocygna viduata: Six showed well on a

lake near Linhares. Muscovy Duck Cairina moschata: Good views of four at Rio Doce. Brazilian Teal (B Duck) Amazonetta brasiliensis: A few observations of the race ipecutiri. Masked Duck Nomonyx dominica: Six birds in non-breeding plumage were found on a weed-

covered lake near Linhares. Always a good duck to see. ARDEIDAE Whistling Heron Syrigma sibilatrix: A single of the nominate race of this handsome and very

distinctive heron was seen in the Curitiba area. Its evocative and well-deserved Brazilian name is Maria-faceira ( = Maria with lots of make-up).

Snowy Egret Egretta thula: Regular encounters with the race brewsteri. ‘Thula’ is an Araucano (Chilean) Indian name for the Black-necked Swan, erroneously given to the Snowy Egret!

Capped Heron Pilherodius pileatus: A single showed off its distinctive flight at the Three-toed Jacamar site.

Great Egret (Great White Egret) Casmerodius albus: Regular encounters with the race egretta. Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis: Widespread and common. The nominate race of this highly successful

species apparently invaded South America from Africa in the late 19th century, one of the most spectacular examples of avian range expansions in historic times.

Striated Heron (Green-backed Heron) Butorides striatus: Five sightings of the nominate race. Black-crowned Night-Heron Nycticorax nycticorax: A few were heard during nocturnal excursions

and a single showed at Rio de Janeiro airport (hoactli). THRESKIORNITHIDAE Buff-necked Ibis Theristicus caudatus: Three were noted upon leaving Intervales. CATHARTIDAE Black Vulture Coragyps atratus: Very common (brasiliensis). Recent genetic studies have indeed

confirmed that New World vultures are modified storks and don’t belong with the raptors. However, there is some controversy and the last word on the subject has not been written yet… An excellent example of convergent evolution.

Turkey Vulture Cathartes aura: Regular sightings of the race ruficollis, but much less common than previous species. The members of the genus Cathartes have a very keen sense of smell.

Lesser Yellow-headed Vulture (savanna Vulture) Cathartes burrovianus: Several excellent observations in the more open areas of the state of Espirito Santo (urubitinga).

ACCIPITRIDAE Grey-headed Kite Leptodon cayanensis: No less than three sightings of this handsome bird of prey.

We noted some beautiful display in western Espirito Santo (monachus). Swallow-tailed Kite (American S-t Kite) Elanoides forficatus: Regular sightings of this extremely

handsome and elegant bird of prey. Definitely one of the best raptors in existence (yetapa).

White-tailed Kite Elanus leucurus: A couple of sightings (nominate). Snail Kite Rostrhamus sociabilis: Three together at a marsh at Rio Doce. Great scope views of this

peculiar snail-specialist (nominate). But they don’t just eat snails as we observed one taking a small chick of a Purple Gallinule.

Rufous-thighed Kite Harpagus diodon: Four observations of this well-marked raptor. Superb scope views of a perched bird at Ruschi’s Reserve, whereby we were able to discern the two notches in the upper mandible (diodon = double tooth). Its plumage shows a very close resemblance to Bicoloured Hawk, perhaps suggesting protective mimicry.


Plumbeous Kite Ictinia plumbea: Regular observations of this very aerial raptor. Rufous-thighed Hawk Accipiter erythronemius: A couple of sightings of this small and speedy bird of

prey, which has in the past been considered a race of the North American Sharp-shinned Hawk Accipiter striatus.

White-necked Hawk Leucopternis lacernulata: A single observation of this splendid raptor, which is endemic to SE Brazil. It is treated as Vulnerable in “Threatened Birds of the World” and its total population must be small. The Neotropical genus Leucopternis comprises 10 species, of which several are extremely rare and little known.

Mantled Hawk Leucopternis polionota: One of these all too rarely-observed Atlantic Forest specialities was found by C-G at Ubatuba. The distinctive tail pattern was seen well.

Grey Hawk Asturina nitida: Five observations of this widespread species (pallida). Roadside Hawk Buteo magnirostris: Easily the most commonly-encountered raptor (magniplumis). Short-tailed Hawk Buteo brachyurus: Five sightings of the nominate race. All were pale morphs. White-tailed Hawk Buteo albicaudatus: A few distant observations of this attractive buteo. Black Hawk-Eagle Spizaetus tyrannus: A couple of observations of this impressive eagle (nominate). FALCONIDAE Southern Crested Caracara Caracara plancus: Regular observations of this carrion eater. Yellow-headed Caracara Milvago chimachima: Small numbers were recorded in most areas

(nominate). The peculiar scientific epithet is an onomatopoeic local Argentinian name for this bird.

Laughing Falcon Herpetotheres cachinnans: Good views of this attractive bird at Sooretama, where we also heard the very distinctive hysterical call (queribundus).

Barred Forest-Falcon Micrastur ruficollis: This widespread species was heard at several sites and glimpsed at Rio Doce (nominate).

American Kestrel Falco sparverius: Fairly scarce, as we only saw seven individuals (cearae). Bat Falcon Falco rufigularis (H): We heard one at Rio Doce from within the forest (nominate). CRACIDAE Rusty-margined Guan Penelope superciliaris: A single encounter with the race jacupemba in the

forests of Espirito Santo. Dusky-legged Guan Penelope obscura: Fairly common and especially tame at Itatiaia (bronzina). Black-fronted Piping-Guan Pipile jacutinga: Good views of a single bird at Intervales, but it took a

while before we managed to add this species to our list!!! Upon seeing this bird - on a recce a couple of years ago - my eight year old daughter Caroline remarked that it had a hairdo like the father of Draco Malfidus in the Harry Potter movies. An Atlantic Forest endemic that has disappeared from most of its former range, mainly due to habitat loss and hunting/poaching. There is a remarkably sad record of c50,000 birds killed in a few weeks in the cold winter of 1866 along the lower Rio Itaji in Santa Catarina state. This species is treated as Vulnerable in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Red-billed Curassow Crax blumenbachii: We worked hard to try to get views of this Brazilian endemic, but only a few lucky souls saw one briefly. Disappointing!! The total population is only c250 birds, restricted to four or five reserves and it is treated as Endangered in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

ODONTOPHORIDAE Spot-winged Wood-Quail Odontophorus capueira (H): We heard the distinctive duetting of this

Atlantic Forest endemic in the forests of Intervales, but always rather distantly (nominate).


RALLIDAE Rufous-sided Crake Laterallus melanophaius (H): Heard at close range, but in unworkable habitat

(nominate). Slaty-breasted Wood-Rail Aramides saracura: Repeated good looks at this Atlantic Forest endemic. Ash-throated Crake Porzana albicollis: Regularly heard at close range in dense marsh habitat and

then magnificent prolonged views of a bird walking in the open during drizzly weather at Ubatuba. The best views ever for everyone (nominate). What a performance!!

Blackish Rail Pardirallus nigricans: Good views of one at a small marsh in Espirito Santo (nominate). Purple Gallinule (American P G) Porphyrio martinicus: Several showed well at a marsh near Rio

Doce, where a pair with chicks was trying to keep a Snail Kite away. Sadly, the raptor managed to grab one of the hapless pulli.

Common Moorhen (Common Gallinule) Gallinula chloropus: Regular observations of the race galeata.

ARAMIDAE Limpkin Aramus guarauna: A single bird was seen at Ubatuba (nominate). CARIAMIDAE Red-legged Seriema Cariama cristata (H): Heard on the last morning of the tour, but we were too

short of time to try to locate it. JACANIDAE Wattled Jacana Jacana jacana: A few observations of this widespread lily-trotter (nominate). SCOLOPACIDAE South American Snipe Gallinago paraguaiae (H): We heard the display in the higher reaches of

Itatiaia. Hudsonian Whimbrel Numenius hudsonicus (NL): A couple were seen along the Sao Paulo

coastline. The New World form is now usually split off as marked genetic differences have apparently been found. There are noticeable plumage differences (this form showing a dark rump and underwings, unlike the European form with its white rump and underwings), but the calls sound pretty similar.

Greater Yellowlegs Tringa melanoleuca: A few along the Rio de Janeiro coastline. Lesser Yellowlegs Tringa flavipes: Good numbers at an extensive area of saltflats on the Rio de

Janeiro coast. Ruddy Turnstone Arenaria interpres: A few at the same saltflats. Sanderling Calidris alba: 20+ at the same saltflats Semipalmated Sandpiper Calidris pusilla: A couple of observations. White-rumped Sandpiper Calidris fuscicollis: Four showed well near our hotel on the Sao Paulo

coast. A long distance migrant. HAEMATOPODIDAE American Oystercatcher Haematopus palliates: Three birds graced the sandy coast near Itanhaem

(nominate). CHARADRIIDAE Semipalmated Plover Charadrius semipalmatus: Several observations of this northern migrant. Grey Plover (Black-bellied Plover) Pluvialis squatarola: Six birds were noted along the coast. Southern Lapwing Vanellus chilensis: The race lampronotus was very common and vociferous in

open habitat.


LARIDAE Kelp Gull Larus dominicanus: Regular observations along the coast. Most of the birds involved were

probably wintering individuals from further south, but this species also breeds in small numbers from the state of Sao Paulo southwards.

STERNIDAE Sandwich Tern Sterna sandvicensis: A dozen or so birds with yellow-tipped black bills were seen

along the coast of the state of Santa Catarina. These belonged obviously to the Holarctic breeding population (acuflavidus).

South American Tern Sterna hirundinacea: c20 of these southern migrants were noted along the coast of the state of Santa Catarina.

COLUMBIDAE Rock Dove (Feral Pigeon) Columba livia Scaled Pigeon Columba speciosa: Several showed well at Sooretama. Picazuro Pigeon Columba picazuro: Many excellent views of the nominate race. The scientific

epithet is a Guarani (Paraguayan) Indian name for this species and stands for sour pigeon, from the taste of its flesh after having eaten certain fruits.

Pale-vented Pigeon Columba cayennensis: Several excellent sightings (sylvestris). Plumbeous Pigeon Columba plumbea: Often heard and some good scope views (nominate). Eared Dove Zenaida auriculata: Just a few of the race virgata. Scaled Dove Columbina squammata: A handful of observations only (nominate). Ruddy Ground-Dove Columbina talpacoti: Commonly encountered. There is no explanation for the

epithet talpacoti (nominate). Picui ground-Dove Columbina picui: Just a couple of sightings. Blue Ground-Dove Claravis pretiosa: Perfect views of several in the Sooretama forests. The male

especially is a delightful bird. White-tipped Dove Leptotila verreauxi: Just a few sightings (chalcauchenia). The bird is named after

Jules Pierre Verreaux (1808-1873), a French collector, naturalist and natural history dealer, who also has (amongst others) an eagle, a coua and a turaco bearing his name.

Grey-fronted Dove Leptotila rufaxilla: Regularly flushed in the Atlantic Forests and more often heard (reichenbachii).

Ruddy Quail-Dove Geotrygon montana: Four birds were flushed in western Espirito Santo and showed their bright rufous backs and wings (nominate).

PSITTACIDAE Blue-winged Macaw Propyrrhura maracana: Excellent views of a pair at Sooretama and we also saw

a couple at the Three-toed Jacamar site. This species is now usually placed in the genus Primolius. It is treated as Vulnerable in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

White-eyed Parakeet Aratinga leucophthalmus: Regular observations of the nominate race. Peach-fronted Parakeet Aratinga aurea: Great views of several of these cuties along the forest edge at

Rio Doce. Blue-throated Parakeet (Ochre-marked P, Blue-chested P) Pyrrhura cruentata: Good views of this rare

species at Sooretama. The reserves of Rio Doce and Sooretama are its stronghold and the total population is just a few thousand birds. This Brazilian endemic is treated as Vulnerable in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Reddish-bellied Parakeet (Maroon-bellied P) Pyrrhura frontalis: This Atlantic Forest endemic was common and vociferous (nominate).


Maroon-faced Parakeet (White-eared P) Pyrrhura leucotis: Regular sightings of the nominate race in the Rio Doce and Sooretama reserves. A species with a peculiar patchy distribution (Venezuela, Goias, NE and SE Brazil).

Blue-winged Parrotlet Forpus xanthopterygius: Just a few of the race vividus. Plain Parakeet Brotogeris tirica: Regular sightings of this unobtrusive and well-named Brazilian

endemic. Red-capped Parrot (Pileated P) Pionopsitta pileata: Several encounters with this Atlantic Forest

endemic, but never really seen well. Blue-headed Parrot Pionus menstruus: A single bird of the isolated race reichenowi - with its

distinctive blue underparts - showed well at Rio Doce. Scaly-headed Parrot Pionus maximiliani: One of the more common psittacids of the tour

(melanoblepharus). Many good views. Red-browed Parrot (R-b Amazon) Amazona rhodocorytha: Some good views of this distinctive

species at Sooretama and Rio Doce. The total population of this Brazilian endemic was estimated at only 845 birds in 1999, restricted to the states of Bahia, Minas Gerais, Rio de Janeiro and Espirito Santo. It is treated as Endangered in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Red-tailed Parrot (R-t Amazon) Amazona brasiliensis: Pretty good views of six in coastal Sao Paulo. The total population of this Brazilian endemic is c5000 birds, confined to a narrow littoral strip in the states of Sao Paulo, Paraná and Santa Catarina. It is treated as Endangered in “Threatened Birds of the World”. Souza calls this species misleadingly Blue-cheeked Parrot.

Orange-winged Parrot (O-w Amazon) Amazona amazonica: Good numbers of this widespread Amazon were found in the Espirito Santo forest reserves (nominate).

Mealy Parrot (M Amazon) Amazona farinosa: Just a few in the Rio Doce and Sooretama reserves (nominate).

Blue-bellied Parrot Triclaria malachitacea: Not much luck with this Brazilian endemic, as only a few of us managed to see one in flight at Intervales. The total population of this unobtrusive species stands at more than 10,000 birds and it is treated as Vulnerable in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

CUCULIDAE Squirrel Cuckoo Piaya cayana: Regular encounters with the race macroura. Smooth-billed Ani Crotophaga ani: Very common. Guira Cuckoo Guira guira: Regular encounters with this bizarre punk-headed bird. Striped Cuckoo Tapera naevia: This brood parasite of spinetails, thornbirds and wrens was scoped

whilst singing away in coastal Santa Catarina (nominate). Often heard. TYTONIDAE Barn Owl Tyto alba: Three nocturnal observations of this ubiquitous species. STRIGIDAE Tropical Screech-Owl Otus choliba: Splendid scope views of a roosting bird near our lodge at

Intervales (nominate). Also regularly heard. Black-capped Screech-Owl (Variable Screech-Owl) Otus atricapillus (H): Heard at Rio Doce, Volta

Velha and Ubatuba, but we never managed to lay eyes on this Atlantic Forest endemic. Quite frustrating.

Rusty-barred Owl Strix hylophila: Fantastic views of this cracker near our chalet at Intervales. This Atlantic Forest endemic has a truly great voice.


Tawny-browed Owl Pulsatrix koeniswaldiana: Smashing looks at this smart Atlantic Forest endemic at Rio Doce. We also heard its distinctive voice elsewhere. The bird is named after G. Koeniswald, a 20th century German ornithologist and author.

Least Pygmy-Owl Glaucidium minutissimum: Great looks at this dapper critter at Rio Doce. This species is now restricted to the Atlantic Forests of SE Brazil, Paraguay and NE Argentina following the splitting off of several related forms in Central and South America.

Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl Glaucidium brasilianum: Fantastic views of this always angry-looking critter (nominate). Best of all was the one at the Three-toed Jacamar site which attracted no less than 31 (!!) different species of birds that came to mob it.

Burrowing Owl Athene cunicularia: Repeated great looks at this cutie (race?). NYCTIBIIDAE Great Potoo Nyctibius grandis: Superb spotting by Lars at Rio Doce resulted in perfect day-time

scope views of this splendid species. Grey Potoo (Common P) Nyctibius griseus: Lovely looks and gorgeous audio encounters at Rio

Doce, Volta Velha and Ubatuba (nominate). A truly amazing voice!! CAPRIMULGIDAE Short-tailed Nighthawk (Semi-collared Nighthawk) Lurocalis semitorquatus: Regularly observed,

often at close range. A very distinctive call. Often flying about before dusk (nattereri). Lesser Nighthawk Chordeiles acutipennis: A few observations of this widespread species. Pauraque (Common P) Nyctidromus albicollis : Very common at Rio Doce, where we had to drive

slowly to avoid casualties (derbyanus). Ocellated Poorwill Nyctiphrynus ocellatus (H): Heard nearby at Rio Doce, but the bird stayed in

hiding (nominate). Silky-tailed Nightjar Caprimulgus sericocaudatus: Good flight views and a great audio performance

of this rarely-seen species at Intervales (nominate). Long-trained Nightjar Macropsalis forcipata: A fantastic eye-ball to eye-ball show of a splendid male

at dusk on a wide track at Intervales. We saw it both in flight and on the deck and this truly magnificent experience resulted in it being voted Bird of the Trip. An Atlantic Forest endemic that occurs from Espirito Santo south into NE Argentina. The scientific epithet is usually given as creagra, but it has now appeared that forcipata has priority.

APODIDAE Sooty Swift Cypseloides fumigatus: Repeated good looks during inclement weather at the Santa

Catarina coast. White-collared Swift Streptoprocne zonaris: Commonly encountered (nominate). Grey-rumped Swift Chaetura cinereiventris: The most common swift, often seen very well

(nominate). Sick’s Swift Chaetura meridionalis: Several good and convincing observations. This species was

previously known as Ashy-tailed Swift Chaetura andrei. But, the nominate form from Venezuela has now been lumped in Vaux’s Swift C. vauxi, rendering the name invalid and the residual forms have been renamed Sick’s Swift. But, there is probably more to it...

TROCHILIDAE Rufous-breasted Hermit (Hairy Hermit) Glaucis hirsuta: Great looks at this widespread species at the

Santa Teresa feeders (nominate). Scale-throated Hermit Phaethornis eurynome: Regular good looks at this Atlantic Forest endemic, but

best seen in Ubatuba and at the Hotel do Ype feeders in Itatiaia National Park (nominate).


Dusky-throated Hermit Phaethornis squalidus (NL): One was seen by Daniel in the lower reaches of the Serra dos Orgãos National Park.

Planalto Hermit Phaethornis pretrei: Splendid views at the Santa Teresa feeders. Reddish Hermit Phaethornis ruber: Several showed quite well in the Ubatuba area (nominate). Minute Hermit Phaethornis idaliae: Terrific close range scope views of a displaying male at Rio

Doce. This sexually dimorphic hermit is a Brazilian endemic restricted to the states of Bahia, Espirito Santo and Rio de Janeiro. Idalia is an epithet of the goddess Venus.

Saw-billed Hermit Ramphodon naevius: Fantastic close up looks at this different-looking hermit in the Ubatuba area. It is very hard to see the saw-like serrations of the mandibles. This Brazilian endemic is treated as Near-Threatened in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Swallow-tailed Hummingbird Eupetomena macroura: Many good looks at this big boy (nominate). It is sometimes placed in the genus Campylopterus.

Black Jacobin Melanotrochilus fuscus: Definitely one of the more endearing hummers, found in good numbers at all the visited feeders, where we witnessed some really spectacular display flights. A real gem of a bird. This Atlantic Forest endemic is now often placed in the genus Florisuga.

White-vented Violetear Colibri serrirostris: Cracking views at the Santa Teresa feeders. We all saw the lovely violet ear tufts!!

Black-throated Mango Anthracothorax nigricollis: Repeated scope views of males and females of this widespread species.

Plovercrest (Black-breasted P) Stephanoxis lalandi: Good, if fairly brief views for most of this most extraordinary jewel of a bird. What a crest this Atlantic Forest endemic has!!! We saw the green-crested and blue-breasted nominate race, which is restricted to Espirito Santo, SE Minas Gerais, Rio de Janeiro and northern Sao Paulo. The southern race, loddigesii, occurs from southern Sao Paulo south into Paraguay and northern Argentina and is quite different with a blue crest and a more reduced darker breast patch and has sometimes been considered a separate species.

Frilled Coquette Lophornis magnifica: Awe-inspiring looks at the Santa Teresa and Itatiaia feeders. Yet another really precious hummer, endemic to southern central Brazil.

Festive Coquette Lophornis chalybea: No less than five spectacular males and several females showed at close range in the Ubatuba area. A widespread species of which we observed the isolated nominate race of SE Brazil.

Glittering-bellied Emerald Chlorostilbon aureoventris: A few observations of the race pucherani. Violet-capped Woodnymph Thalurania glaucopis: Many splendid encounters with this beautiful

Atlantic Forest endemic. White-chinned Sapphire Hylocharis cyanus: A few of the nominate race in the Rio Doce forests.

Quite a voice!! White-throated Hummingbird Leucochloris albicollis: Many great looks at this adorable creature at

the Santa Teresa and Itatiaia feeders. Versicoloured Emerald Amazilia versicolor: Repeated good looks at the rather dull-looking nominate

race. This species is now usually put in the genus Argyrtria. Glittering-throated Emerald Amazilia fimbriata: Regular encounters with this widespread and well-

known species (tephrocephala). It is now usually placed in the genus Polyerata. Sapphire-spangled Emerald Amazilia lactea: One or two sightings of this patchily distributed species

of which we saw the isolated southeastern Brazilian nominate race. It is now usually placed in the genus Polyerata.

Sombre Hummingbird Aphantochroa cirrochloris: Good looks at this modestly-attired Brazilian endemic at the Santa Teresa and Ubatuba feeders. Recent research has shown it to belong in the genus Campylopterus (Sabrewings).


Brazilian Ruby Clytolaema rubricauda: Fantastic eye-ball to eye-ball views of this truly remarkable Brazilian endemic at the Itatiaia feeders. What a thrill to see and feel a resplendent male hover only inches away!!

Amethyst Woodstar Calliphlox amethystina: Good looks at a female in Ruschi’s garden. TROGONIDAE Amazonian White-tailed Trogon Trogon viridis: Many excellent observations of this widespread

species. It is usually considered monotypic, but the isolated SE Brazilian population is sometimes considered a separate race (melanopterus).

Collared Trogon Trogon collaris: One showed briefly at Intervales (castaneus). Black-throated Trogon Trogon rufus: A few nice sightings at extremely close range (chrysochloros). Surucua Trogon Trogon surrucura: Many splendid observations of this lovely bird (aurantius). The

nominate race, which some of you have seen in Argentina has a red belly and an orange-red eyering. The scientific epithet is derived from the Guarani (Paraguayan) Indian name surucua for this bird.

ALCEDINIDAE Ringed Kingfisher Megaceryle torquata: Five observations of the largest New World kingfisher

(nominate). Green Kingfisher Chloroceryle americana (NL): A single sighting only (nominate). American Pygmy Kingfisher Chloroceryle aenea: One shot past at the Kaempfer’s Tody-Tyrant spot. MOMOTIDAE Rufous-capped Motmot Baryphthengus ruficapillus: This Atlantic Forest endemic provided several

great looks and lovely dawn choruses GALBULIDAE Three-toed Jacamar Jacamaralcyon tridactyla: Exquisite scope views of this rarely-seen Brazilian

endemic. The total population is thought to number less than 1000 individuals and it is now restricted to inland Rio de Janeiro and eastern Minas Gerais. It is the only member of its genus and it is treated as Endangered in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Rufous-tailed Jacamar Galbula ruficauda: Regular observations of the bluish-headed race rufoviridis. BUCCONIDAE White-eared Puffbird Nystalus chacuru: A single was briefly seen upon leaving Intervales. Crescent-chested Puffbird Malacoptila striata: Cracking scope views of a couple at Rio Doce and a

single at Itanhaem. A Brazilian endemic occurring in two separate populations: the race minor in Maranhao (NE Brazil) and the nominate race in the southeast.

White-fronted Nunbird Monasa morphoeus: A single inside the forest at Sooretama was our only record (nominate).

Swallow-wing Chelidoptera tenebrosa: Just one of the race brasiliensis at Rio Doce. RAMPHASTIDAE Black-necked Aracari Pteroglossus aracari: Regularly observed, but most records were from Espirito

Santo (vergens). Spot-billed Toucanet Selenidera maculirostris: Repeated cracking views of this handsome Atlantic

Forest endemic. Both males and females of this exquisite bird showed well.


Channel-billed Toucan Ramphastos vitellinus: Fairly common in the Espirito Santo forests. We observed the black-billed and orange-breasted race ariel. The latest view on the taxonomy of the croaking toucans considers both Citron-throated Toucan R. citreolaemus and Yellow-ridged Toucan R. culminatus as races of R. vitellinus, mainly due to massive interbreeding over huge areas.

Red-breasted Toucan Ramphastos dicolorus: Many sightings of this really smart Atlantic Forest endemic.

PICIDAE White-barred Piculet Picumnus cirratus: Repeated excellent views of this lovely critter (nominate). In

Venezuela piculets are called telegrafistas, for obvious reasons. Ochre-collared Piculet Picumnus temminckii: Several great looks at this Atlantic Forest endemic. White Woodpecker Melanerpes candidus: A couple in the gardens surrounding the chalets at Rio

Doce provided excellent entertainment. A gorgeous species. Yellow-fronted Woodpecker Melanerpes flavifrons: Another beauty that performed very well on

many occasions. An Atlantic Forest endemic. White-spotted Woodpecker Veniliornis spilogaster: Regular sightings of this unobtrusive species,

endemic to the Atlantic Forest. Yellow-eared Woodpecker Veniliornis maculifrons: Five sightings of this Brazilian endemic, which is

restricted to SE Bahia, Espirito Santo and Rio de Janeiro. Yellow-throated Woodpecker Piculus flavigula: Two observations of this handsome bird (erythropis). White-browed Woodpecker (Yellow-browed W) Piculus aurulentus: Only seen at Intervales. It

would be more correct to call this species Yellow-browed Woodpecker!! This Atlantic Forest endemic is treated as Near-Threatened in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Green-barred Woodpecker Colaptes melanochloros: A couple of observations of the nominate race. Campo Flicker Colaptes campestris: Regular sightings of the nominate race. Blond-crested Woodpecker Celeus flavescens: Great looks at this most handsome species

(nominate). Not strictly an Atlantic Forest endemic, as it also occurs far inland and north till the Amazon. The mainly Neotropical genus Celeus (11 species - one in Asia: Rufous Woodpecker) harbours several of the most enigmatic, most attractive and different-looking woodpeckers of the New World.

Lineated Woodpecker Dryocopus lineatus: A single observation of the race erythrops. Robust Woodpecker Campephilus robustus (H): Regular audio encounters of this Atlantic Forest

endemic. It was very unusual not to bump into one on our travels through SE Brazil!! DENDROCOLAPTIDAE This well-defined assemblage has often been considered to form a subfamily within the Furnariidae, but the most recent views consider it again as a distinct family. Thrush-like Woodcreeper (Plain-winged Woodcreeper) Dendrocincla turdina: Regular encounters

with this Atlantic Forest speciality. Olivaceous Woodcreeper Sittasomus griseicapillus: The race sylviellus was common all over our

circuit. Keep an eye on where you have seen this species as its systematics are in need of a comprehensive revision. Splitting is bound to happen in the future.

White-throated Woodcreeper Xiphocolaptes albicollis: Several splendid looks at this usually very well behaved species. An Atlantic Forest endemic with a very distinctive dawn song (nominate).

Planalto Woodcreeper Dendrocolaptes platyrostris: Just a single observation of the nominate race. Buff-throated Woodcreeper Xiphorhynchus guttatus: Several sightings of this widespread species

(nominate).


Lesser Woodcreeper Xiphorhynchus fuscus: Several lovely observations of the nominate race. This Atlantic Forest endemic was formerly placed in the genus Lepidocolaptes, but recent molecular studies indicate that it is better included in Xiphorhynchus. This is also suggested by behavioural observations and morphological characters.

Scaled Woodcreeper Lepidocolaptes squamatus: Regular encounters with birds of the nominate race in the forests of Espirito Santo. A Brazilian endemic.

Scalloped Woodcreeper Lepidocolaptes falcinellus: This very recent split from the previous species (see Handbook of the Birds of the World, vol 8, p443) was seen by us at Intervales and Itatiaia. It differs from Scaled Woodcreeper in crown pattern and the colouration of back and tail. The dividing line between these two allopatric species is the Rio Paraiba do Sul in northern Sao Paulo. An Atlantic Forest endemic.

Black-billed Scythebill Campylorhamphus falcularius: It took a while, but eventually we obtained superb looks at this enigmatic Atlantic Forest endemic. A remarkable bird.

FURNARIIDAE Wing-banded Hornero (Band-tailed/Tail-banded Hornero) Furnarius figulus: Regular observations of

this distinctive species (nominate). Remember the eye-brow!! Rufous Hornero Furnarius rufus: Argentina’s national bird proved to be very common in all open

areas (albogularis). The distinctive and obvious mud oven nests adorn many posts and pylons. The dozens of nests on one of the barns at Pindobas IV were quite a sight!!

Araucaria Tit-Spinetail Leptasthenura setaria: Perfect views of one or two in the splendid Monkey Puzzle Trees (Araucaria angustifolia) of the higher reaches of Itatiaia. This Atlantic Forest endemic is treated as Near-Threatened in “Threatened Birds of the World”, BirdLife International’s magnificent book on the sad status of 10% of the world’s avifauna.

Itatiaia Spinetail (Itatiaia Thistletail) Oreophylax moreirae: Superb looks at a single bird in the higher reaches of Itatiaia National Park. This Brazilian endemic is restricted to the mountains of SE Brazil at altitudes between 1850 and 2800m. It has previously been considered to belong with the Andean genus Schizoeaca (Thistletails) and also with Asthenes (Canasteros), but it seems most appropriate to retain it in a separate genus.

Rufous-capped Spinetail Synallaxis ruficapilla: Common in Chusquea bamboo rich Atlantic Forest, to which it is endemic.

Chicli Spinetail (Spix’s S) Synallaxis spixi: Regular sightings of this Atlantic Forest endemic. Grey-bellied Spinetail Synallaxis cinerascens: A couple showed very well at Intervales and we also

heard it in the higher reaches of Itatiaia. Yet another endemic of the Atlantic Forest. Pallid Spinetail Cranioleuca pallida: This canopy-inhabiting Brazilian endemic showed regularly in

mixed species flocks. Olive Spinetail Cranioleuca obsoleta: Regular observations of these Atlantic Forest endemics with

mixed mid-storey flocks. Yellow-chinned Spinetail (Y-throated S) Certhiaxis cinnamomea: Several observations in marshy

habitat (russeolus). Striated Softtail Thripophaga macroura: Great views of this distinctive species in the forests of

Sooretama. A SE Brazilian endemic that is treated as Endangered in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Common Thornbird (Plain T, Rufous-fronted T) Phacellodomus rufifrons: Brief looks at one or two near their extraordinary nests at the Three-toed Jacamar site. A species with several widely disjunct populations in South America. Our birds showed a distinct rufous front (nominate).

Orange-eyed Thornbird Phacellodomus erythrophthalmus: Good looks at a couple in the Angra dos Reis area. A SE Brazilian endemic. There has been a fair amount of confusion regarding the English and scientific names of this and the next species. Especially in Ridgley’s and Tudor’s splendidly written and illustrated ”The Handbook of the Birds of South America, Vol II” the matter is totally unfathomable. The species concerned has orange eyes (although the scientific epithet erythrophthalmus = red eyes!!).


Red-eyed Thornbird Phacellodomus ferrugineigula: This recent split from the previous species performed rather sneakily at Intervales. Another Brazilian endemic, restricted to the southern portions of the Atlantic Forest. It has deservedly retained the original English name.

Pale-browed Treehunter Cichlocolaptes leucophrus: Regular observations of the nominate race of this Brazilian endemic. Especially stupendous views were obtained in western Espirito Santo!! The species name is regularly misspelled as leucophrys.

Buff-browed Foliage-gleaner Syndactyla rufosuperciliata: Just a few observations of the nominate race.

White-browed Foliage-gleaner Anabacerthia amaurotis: A single sighting of this Atlantic Forest endemic in the forests of Intervales. It is sometimes placed in the genus Philydor and is treated as Near-Threatened in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Ochre-breasted Foliage-gleaner Philydor lichtensteini: Several superb close up observations of this Atlantic Forest endemic.

Buff-fronted Foliage-gleaner Philydor rufum: Many records of this widespread species (nominate). Black-capped Foliage-gleaner Philydor atricapillus: Regular sightings of this attractive Atlantic Forest

endemic. White-collared Foliage-gleaner Anabazenops fuscus: Several excellent observations of this very

distinctive and fascinating Brazilian endemic. White-eyed Foliage-gleaner Automolus leucophthalmus: This lovely species has one of the more

characteristic voices of the southeastern Brazilian forests (sulphurascens). Regular encounters with yet another Atlantic Forest endemic.

Rufous-breasted Leaftosser Sclerurus scansor: A few brief encounters only with this skulker (nominate).

Sharp-tailed Streamcreeper Lochmias nematura: Great views of this specialized, intriguing and much-wanted species (nominate). A wide-ranging bird that occurs between 700 and 2800m in the Andes from Venezuela south to Argentina, whilst in SE Brazil and adjoining countries it inhabits mainly lowland forest.

Sharp-billed Treehunter Heliobletus contaminatus: Regular observations of this well-behaved diminutive Atlantic Forest endemic (nominate).

Plain Xenops Xenops minutus: A few sightings of this widespread species. Streaked Xenops Xenops rutilans: Common throughout our itinerary (nominate). THAMNOPHILIDAE Spot-backed Antshrike Hypoedaleus guttatus: Several cracking studies of this unusual-looking

Atlantic Forest endemic. It is the only member of its genus and favours dense vine tangles.

Giant Antshrike Batara cinerea: An impressive and splendid male of the large nominate race showed to half the group at Intervales, but this sadly remained our only observation. Quite often heard, as its voice carries a long way.

Tufted Antshrike Mackenziaena severa: Repeated superb looks at both males and females of this attractive and lovely Atlantic Forest endemic.

Large-tailed Antshrike Mackenziaena leachii: That splendid male performing in the open only metres away at Intervales definitely was one of the great moments of the tour. One of the more spectacular Atlantic Forest endemics. The genus is named after Helen Mackenzie McConnell (1871-1954), wife of English traveller and collector Frederick McConnell.

White-bearded Antshrike Biatas nigropectus: Great views of this adorable species in the bamboo at Intervales. This rare bird only occurs in a few isolated forests – have a look at the eye-opening distribution map on p359 in “Threatened Birds of the World”, in which it is treated as Vulnerable. It is endemic to SE Brazil and NE Argentina.

Chestnut-backed Antshrike Thamnophilus palliatus: Great looks at this handsome creature in Sooretama, Angra dos Reis and at the Three-toed Jacamar site (vestitus).


Sooretama Slaty Antshrike Thamnophilus ambiguus: Excellent views at Sooretama. This Brazilian endemic, which occurs from Sergipe south to Rio de Janeiro is a fairly recent split in the “old” Slaty Antshrike T. punctatus complex.

Variable Antshrike Thamnophilus caerulescens: Regular observations of this widespread and well-named species, which shows a complex plumage variation and an unusual geographical distribution (nominate).

Spot-breasted Antvireo Dysithamnus stictothorax: Many excellent sightings of another Atlantic Forest endemic, with its often heard song. It is treated as Near-Threatened in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Plain Antvireo Dysithamnus mentalis: Regular records of the nominate race. Rufous-backed Antvireo Dysithamnus xanthopterus: A SE Brazilian endemic that showed very well

in the higher reaches of Itatiaia National Park. It is restricted to montane forest between 750 and 1700m.

Plumbeous Antvireo (P Antshrike) Dysithamnus plumbeus: Great looks at two males in Sooretama. Another species with a tiny range centred on Espirito Santo. This Brazilian endemic is treated as Vulnerable in “Threatened Birds of the World”, It was formerly treated as conspecific with the geographically remote White-streaked Antvireo D. leucostictus (northern Venezuela and the Andes of Colombia to Peru), and incorrectly transferred to the genus Thamnomanes.

Cinereous Antshrike Thamnomanes caesius: Several sightings of this leader or sentinel of mixed-species flocks. It maintains flock cohesiveness with its constant noisy vocalizations and sounds alarm when predators appear (nominate).

Star-throated Antwren Myrmotherula gularis: A couple of observations of this SE Brazil endemic. White-flanked Antwren Myrmotherula axillaris: One of the regulars in the few mixed-species flocks

we saw (luctuosa). Unicoloured Antwren Myrmotherula unicolor: Good views of this SE Brazilian endemic at Volta

Velha and Ubatuba. It is treated as Vulnerable in “Threatened Birds of the World”. Rufous-winged Antwren Herpsilochmus rufimarginatus: A pair obliged beautifully at Rio Doce and

also at Itanhaem and many others were heard. We saw the race scapularis in Espirito Santo and recorded the nominate race further south.

White-fringed Antwren Formicivora grisea: A male of this widespread species came in to inspect all the consternation caused by a Ferruginous Pygmy Owl at the Three-toed Jacamar site.

Restinga Antwren Formicivora littoralis: We obtained great looks at a male in the restinga vegetation east of Rio de Janeiro. Restinga is beach-scrub habitat, rich in bromeliads and cacti, that grows on sand-dunes. This lovely bird is restricted to a tiny coastal area of only 205 km² and its total population numbers less than 1000 birds. It is endemic to the state of Rio de Janeiro and is treated as Endangered in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Black-hooded Antwren Formicivora erythronotos: Fantastic looks at this lovely species, which has a tiny range in southern Rio de Janeiro state. The total population is probably only a couple of thousand birds, but it has been found at remarkable densities of up to 150 pairs per km². It is treated as Endangered in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Marsh Antwren (Marsh Antbird, Parana Antwren) Stymphalornis acutirostris: Great looks at a male in a Typha-dominated marsh near the coast of Paraná state. Definitely a very unusual habitat for an antbird!! This recently-discovered species (1995) is endemic to SE Brazil and is treated as Endangered in “Threatened Birds of the World”. Although the genus Stymphalornis has been specifically erected for this species, it now seems clear that the Marsh Antwren belongs in the genus Formicivora. A very-closely related form has very recently - last year -been discovered in marsh habitat to the east of Sao Paulo and may represent another new species!!


Ferruginous Antbird Drymophila ferruginea: Repeated great views of this common and attractive SE Brazilian endemic.

Rufous-necked Antbird (Bertoni’s A) Drymophila rubricollis: This Atlantic Forest endemic was heard at Intervales and finally seen well at Itatiaia. Until fairly recently it was considered conspecific with the previous species. We heard both Ferruginous and Rufous-necked Antbirds in the same patch of bamboo at Intervales.

Rufous-tailed Antbird Drymophila genei: Great looks in the bamboo thickets of the higher elevations of Itatiaia National Park. A SE Brazil endemic that is treated as Near-Threatened in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Ochre-rumped Antbird Drymophila ochropyga: Seen well at Pindobas IV. Another SE Brazil endemic that is treated as Near-Threatened in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Dusky-tailed Antbird Drymophila malura: Some good looks at this Atlantic Forest endemic at Intervales.

Scaled Antbird Drymophila squamata: Regular excellent observations of this adorable E Brazil endemic (stictocorypha). We saw no less than six out of the eight existing species of the lovely genus Drymophila on this tour.

Streak-capped Antwren Terenura maculata: Several fine observations of this tiny canopy-inhabiting Atlantic Forest endemic.

White-shouldered Fire-eye Pyriglena leucoptera: Regularly recorded. White-bibbed Antbird Myrmeciza loricata: Some good looks in the Espirito Santo forests and also

heard at Itatiaia. Another striking SE Brazil endemic. Squamate Antbird Myrmeciza squamosa: A gorgeous male posed at length for us at Intervales.

Endemic to SE Brazil. FORMICARIIDAE Rufous-capped Antthrush Formicarius colma: Magnificent views (!!) of this widespread species at

Sooretama (ruficeps). Short-tailed Antthrush Chamaeza campanisona (H): We only heard it at Ruschi’s Reserve, but no joy

(nominate). The most widespread member of the genus. Brazilian Antthrush (Rufous-tailed A) Chamaeza ruficauda: Heard at itatiaia and the Serra dos

Orgãos, but only a few people managed to see this Atlantic Forest endemic, which is also known from Misiones (NE Argentina).

Such’s Antthrush (Cryptic A) Chamaeza meruloides: Fair views for some at Itatiaia. This one is endemic to SE Brazil and was long confused with the previous species, although its song sounds more like that of Short-tailed Antthrush.

Variegated Antpitta Grallaria varia: A very-cooperative bird at Intervales performed at length for us, whilst it sat on its nest. Perfect scope views. Several others were heard. We recorded the race intercedens in Espirito Santo and the race imperator elsewhere.

Speckle-breasted Antpitta Hylopezus nattereri: This little tyke made us work hard, but eventually we had great looks as it hopped about almost at our feet at Itatiaia. So very adorable and endemic to the Atlantic Forest.

CONOPOPHAGIDAE Rufous Gnateater Conopophaga lineata: Splendid looks at the race vulgaris. A lovely little creature,

that is endemic to the Atlantic Forest. Black-cheeked Gnateater Conopophaga melanops (H): Frustratingly, we never managed to lure one

in, although we heard it a few times. Endemic to eastern Brazil.


RHINOCRYPTIDAE Spotted Bamboowren Psilorhamphus guttatus: Not vocal at all on this trip, and we only recorded it at

Ubatuba. An Atlantic Forest endemic that is treated as Near-Threatened in “Threatened Birds of the World”. Its taxonomic position was previously heavily disputed and it has been variously placed in the Thamnophilidae (Antbirds), Troglodytidae (Wrens) and Polioptilidae (Gnatwrens and Gnatcatchers).

Slaty Bristlefront Merulaxis ater: An incredible experience with a very cooperative bird that almost walked at our feet at Intervales!!! Pure magic!!! We also heard it at Ubatuba and Itatiaia. Its enchanting song has deservedly been described as one of the more memorable bird sounds of SE Brazil. This Brazilian endemic is treated as Near-Threatened in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Tall-grass Wetland Tapaculo (Wetland Tapaculo) Scytalopus iraiensis (H): We worked hard and finally heard one nearby in one of the few remaining patches of marsh vegetation where it is known to survive. Seeing this incredible skulker is an entirely other matter!! It is treated as Endangered in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Mouse-coloured Tapaculo Scytalopus speluncae: It took a while, but we were finally rewarded with amazing views of this cute Atlantic Forest endemic. Many others were heard.

White-breasted Tapaculo Scytalopus indigoticus: Great views no of this gorgeous little fellow at Intervales. This SE Brazilian endemic was also regularly heard. It is treated as Near-Threatened in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

COTINGIDAE Shrike-like Cotinga (Elegant Mourner) Laniisoma elegans: Good views for all of this rarely-seen

species in western Espirito Santo (nominate). It is treated as Vulnerable in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Swallow-tailed Cotinga Phibalura flavirostris: Good looks at several, including a brooding bird at Intervales (nominate). We also observed at least four in a fruiting tree in the Serra dos Orgãos. One of the most wanted species of the tour and one of those “must see” birds for the international birder!!!. Its distribution is mainly based on the Atlantic Forest, but there are also records from further inland (Goias and western Bolivia). It is treated as Near-Threatened in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Black-and-gold Cotinga Tijuca atra: Repeated excellent scope views, both at Itatiaia and in the Serra dos Orgãos. This is one of the great specialities of the southeast Brazil mountains, where its strange and memorable song echoes from all around. It is treated as Near-Threatened in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Grey-winged Cotinga (Orgãos C) Tijuca condita: Our full day in the higher reaches of the Serra dos Orgãos was definitely the saddest day of the tour as we lost a very good friend here whilst observing this enigmatic species. We hiked for several hours to get to the elfin forest haunts of this rarely-seen SE Brazil endemic and obtained fair views of one or two birds. The Grey-winged Cotinga only occurs on two small adjacent mountain ranges (Serra dos Orgãos and Serra do Tingua) in the state of Rio de Janeiro, above the preferred elevational range of Black-and-gold Cotinga. It was only described in 1980 and it was Derek Scott (our nestor staff leader at Birdquest) who first studied the behaviour and biology of this species. It is treated as Vulnerable in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Hooded Berryeater Carpornis cucullatus: Many lovely views of this SE Brazilian endemic with its memorable voice. It is treated as Near-Threatened in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Buff-throated Purpletuft Iodopleura pipra: Scope views of an adult with its chick on a nest at Ubatuba. This rare and tiny cotinga is restricted to a fragmented and disjunct range in coastal eastern Brazil, where it feeds on mistletoe berries. It is treated as Endangered in “Threatened Birds of the World”.


Cinnamon-vented Piha Lipaugus lanioides: Good looks at this unobtrusive SE Brazil endemic at Nova Lombardia and also heard elsewhere in Espirito Santo and Intervales. It is treated as Vulnerable in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

White-winged Cotinga Xipholena atropurpurea: Good views of both males and females of this handsome bird in a fruiting tree at Sooretama. A stunning species, which is obviously closely-related to the better known Pompadour Cotinga. This dazzling bird is now virtually confined to 13 protected areas in eastern Brazil and is treated as Endangered in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Red-ruffed Fruitcrow Pyroderus scutatus: A single bird showed briefly at Intervales (nominate). A distinctive voice!!

Bare-throated Bellbird Procnias nudicollis: Many superb scope views of this much-wanted species. In some areas up to four or five different “Arapongas” (= Brazilian name) could be heard at the same time. It is treated as Near-Threatened in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

OXYRUNCIDAE Sharpbill Oxyruncus cristatus: Four birds were seen and many others heard. Excellent scope views of

a species with a really peculiar and disjunct distribution in Central and South America. PIPRIDAE Red-headed Manakin Pipra rubrocapilla: Regular in the Espirito Santo forests. Swallow-tailed Manakin (Blue Manakin) Chiroxiphia caudata: Many great looks at these lovely birds.

We also managed to see them dance and display. Magnificent stuff. An Atlantic Forest endemic.

Pin-tailed Manakin Ilicura militaris: Regular observations of this SE Brazil endemic, but usually of females or young males. The male is a real gem!!

White-bearded Manakin Manacus manacus: Wonderful looks at this widespread species with its amazing display (gutturosus).

Wied’s Tyrant-Manakin Neopelma aurifrons: Scope views of this rare and unobtrusive Brazilian endemic, which is treated as Endangered in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Serra Do Mar Tyrant-Manakin Neopelma chrysolophum: We saw this unobtrusive Brazilian endemic well at Itatiaia. This is a recent split from Wied’s Tyrant-Manakin N. aurifrons.

Wing-barred Manakin (W-b Piprites) Piprites chloris: Excellent views of this unassuming, but widespread species at Intervales.

TYRANNIDAE Grey-hooded Flycatcher Mionectes rufiventris: Good looks at this Atlantic Forest endemic in western

Espirito Santo. Sepia-capped Flycatcher Leptopogon amaurocephalus: Regular observations of the nominate race.

The quickly lifting of a wing over the back, so characteristic of this genus, was also observed.

Drab-breasted Pygmy-Tyrant (D-b Bamboo-Tyrant) Hemitriccus diops: A few brief sightings of this modest Atlantic Forest endemic. More often heard.

Brown-breasted Pygmy-Tyrant (B-b Bamboo-Tyrant) Hemitriccus obsoletus: Frustrating looks for some along the Agulhas Negras road at Itatiaia (nominate). A SE Brazil endemic.

Eye-ringed Tody-Tyrant Hemitriccus orbitatus: A single observation of this SE Brazil endemic, which is treated as Near-Threatened in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Hangnest Tody-Tyrant Hemitriccus nidipendulus: Several magnificent eye-ball to eye-ball experiences with this subtly-attractive species. A SE Brazil endemic.


Kaempfer’s Tody-Tyrant Hemitriccus kaempferi: Great views at close range of this rare and little-known Brazilian endemic. It was for many years only known from the type specimen, which was taken by E. Kaempfer in 1929. Another specimen was obtained in 1950 and it was Mark Pearman, our Birdquest man in Argentina and Chile who rediscovered this unpretentious species near the type locality in the state of Santa Catarina in 1991. It is treated as Endangered in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Fork-tailed Tody-Tyrant Hemitriccus furcatus: Good views of this gorgeous little critter at Ubatuba. Yet another SE Brazil endemic that is treated as Endangered in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Ochre-faced Tody-Flycatcher Todirostrum plumbeiceps: Several delightful encounters with this charming species (nominate).

Yellow-lored Tody-Flycatcher Todirostrum poliocephalum: Great performances of this cute SE Brazil endemic.

Planalto Tyrannulet Phyllomyias fasciatus: Several excellent observations of this self-effacing bird (brevirostris). A highly distinctive voice.

Rough-legged Tyrannulet Phyllomyias burmeisteri: One or two of these canopy inhabitants at Intervales. Usually picked up by voice. It occurs in two disjunct populations in southern South America.

Greenish Tyrannulet Phyllomyias virescens: A couple showed well in the Serra da Graciosa. It is endemic to the Atlantic Forest.

Grey-capped Tyrannulet Phyllomyias griseocapilla: Lovely views of one at Nova Lombardia and then again at Intervales. This SE Brazil endemic is treated as Near-Threatened in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

White-lored Tyrannulet Ornithion inerme (H): We heard one at Rio Doce, but were busy with larger fry.

Southern Beardless Tyrannulet Camptostoma obsoletum: A handful of records of this widespread species (nominate)

Yellow Tyrannulet Capsiempis flaveolus: Great looks in the scrub at Angra dos Reis (nominate). Noisy.

Yellow-bellied Elaenia Elaenia flavogaster: Common, vociferous and conspicuous (nominate). Small-billed Elaenia Elaenia parvirostris: A single bird showed well along a forest edge at Sooretama. Olivaceous Elaenia Elaenia mesoleuca: A few at Itatiaia. Not strictly an Atlantic Forest endemic, as it

occurs far inland to the state of Goias. Highland Elaenia Elaenia obscura: Fairly common in the higher reaches of Itatiaia (sordida). White-crested Tyrannulet Serpophaga subcristata: A single showed at Volta Velha (straminea). Sao Paulo Tyrannulet Phylloscartes paulistus: One performed quite well at Intervales. As always, first

picked up by voice!! An Unobtrusive Atlantic Forest endemic that is treated as Vulnerable in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Oustalet’s Tyrannulet Phylloscartes oustaleti: Repeated excellent views of this tail-shivering SE Brazil endemic. It is treated as Near-Threatened in “Threatened Birds of the World”. The bird is named after Emile Oustalet (1844-1905), a French zoologist and author.

Serra do Mar Tyrannulet Phylloscartes difficilis: Several showed extremely well in the higher reaches of Itatiaia. Another SE Brazil endemic that is treated as Near-Threatened in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Restinga Tyrannulet Phylloscartes kronei: Nice views of this recently-described species (1992). It is restricted to the coastal plain of southern Sao Paulo, Paraná, Santa Catarina and northern Rio Grande do Sul and is treated as Vulnerable in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Mottle-cheeked Tyrannulet Phylloscartes ventralis: Regular encounters with this widespread species (nominate).


Bay-ringed Tyrannulet Phylloscartes sylviolus: Excellent scope views at Intervales, whereby we were able to discern the very distinctive bay eye-ring of this canopy species. Unusual for this bird to remain perched in one spot for that long. An Atlantic Forest endemic that is treated as Near-Threatened in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Eared Pygmy-Tyrant Myiornis auricularis: Many splendid looks at this endearing little fellow, which is endemic to the Atlantic Forest.

Large-headed Flatbill Ramphotrigon megacephala (H): We heard it regularly in its favoured bamboo habitat, but it never performed (nominate).

Olivaceous Flatbill Rhynchocyclus olivaceus: We found several nests hanging over the tracks at Sooretama and Rio Doce and obtained great views of their owners (nominate).

Yellow-olive Flycatcher (Y-o Flatbill) Tolmomyias sulphurescens: An often heard and regularly seen bird of mixed-species flocks (nominate).

Grey-crowned Flycatcher (G-c Flatbill) Tolmomyias poliocephalus: A single showed well at Rio Doce (sclateri).

Yellow-breasted Flycatcher (Y-b Flatbill) Tolmomyias flaviventris: Good views of this distinctive bird at Rio Doce (nominate).

White-throated Spadebill Platyrinchus mystaceus: A few observations of this widespread species, but best was the bird that raised its impressive golden crest at Intervales (cancromus).

Bran-coloured Flycatcher Myiophobus fasciatus: A few observations of the race flammiceps. Yellow-rumped Flycatcher Myiobius mastacalis: This recent split from the “old” Sulphur-rumped

Flycatcher Myiobius barbatus complex showed well at its nest at Nova Lombardia. A SE Brazil endemic.

Black-tailed Flycatcher Myiobius atricaudus: A few at Nova Lombardia (ridgwayi). Swallow Flycatcher Hirundinea bellicosa: Just a few observations of this showy species. This is a

disputed split from Cliff Flycatcher H. ferruginea. All the birds occurring from Bolivia south into Argentina and the southern Brazilian populations pertain with Swallow Flycatcher.

Euler’s Flycatcher Lathrotriccus euleri: Several observations of the nominate race. Tropical Pewee Contopus cinereus: Regularly recorded (nominate). Blue-billed Black-Tyrant Knipolegus cyanirostris: Quite a few observations in the highlands of

Itatiaia. An Atlantic Forest endemic. Velvety Black-Tyrant Knipolegus nigerrimus: Great looks at a male of this SE Brazil endemic at

Itatiaia. Masked Water-Tyrant Fluvicola nengeta: Regular encounters with this wheatear-like species

(nominate). Streamer-tailed Tyrant Gubernetes yetapa: Definitely one of the best-looking members of the huge

Tyrannidae family. Great looks at several in inland Espirito Santo. Long-tailed Tyrant Colonia colonus: One of the more conspicuous members of the family and always

fun to observe (nominate). Cattle Tyrant Machetornis rixosus: Many encounters with the nominate race. Shear-tailed Grey-Tyrant Muscipipra vetula: This Atlantic Forest endemic performed well at Nova

Lombardia and at Pindobas IV. Rufous-tailed Attila Attila phoenicurus: Impeccable scope views of this little-known, but highly vocal

Atlantic Forest endemic. It winters in Amazonia and returns late in SE Brazil. Grey-hooded Attila Attila rufus: Common by voice all over our circuit. Several excellent sightings of

this SE Brazil endemic (nominate). Greyish Mourner Rhytipterna simplex: Several were seen well in the forests of Espirito Santo

(nominate). Cinereous Mourner Laniocera hypopyrra: Two observations in the forests of Espirito Santo. Eastern Sirystes Sirystes sibilator: Often heard and now and then seen. A very distinctive voice.


Dusky-capped Flycatcher Myiarchus tuberculifer: Regular encounters with the nominate race Swainson’s Flycatcher Myiarchus swainsoni: Just a few observations of birds of the nominate race. Short-crested Flycatcher Myiarchus ferox: A couple of birds of the race australis showed well. Brown-crested Flycatcher Myiarchus tyrannulus: A single bird came in to mob the Ferruginous

Pygmy-Owl in inland Rio de Janeiro state. Tropical Kingbird Tyrannus melancholicus: The ubiquitous TK (nominate). Fork-tailed Flycatcher Tyrannus savana: Fairly common and very elegant (nominate). Variegated Flycatcher Empidonomus varius: Regular observations of birds of the nominate race. Boat-billed Flycatcher Megarynchus pitangua: Common and obvious (nominate). What a bill!! Three-striped Flycatcher Conopias trivirgata: A couple of rather vociferous birds posed in the scope

at Intervales and then again at Volta Velha (nominate). A widespread, but all too rarely observed species.

Streaked Flycatcher Myiodynastes maculatus: Commonly encountered (solitarius). Social Flycatcher Myiozetetes similis: Fairly common (pallidiventris). Piratic Flycatcher Legatus leucophaius: Fairly common (nominate). Great Kiskadee Pitangus sulphuratus: Common all over the place. One of the best known voices of

the Neotropics (probably argentinus). Thrush-like Mourner (T-l Schiffornis) Schiffornis turdinus: Good looks at this unobtrusive and

widespread understorey species at Sooretama (nominate). Greenish Mourner (G Schiffornis) Schiffornis virescens: Several excellent encounters with this modest

Atlantic Forest endemic. More often heard than seen. Green-backed Becard Pachyramphus viridis: This one showed well at Nova Lombardia and then

again at Rio Doce. One of the best-looking members of the genus (nominate). Chestnut-crowned Becard Pachyramphus castaneus: Common and often observed at their obvious

and untidy nests (nominate). White-winged Becard Pachyramphus polychopterus: A couple of observations of males of the race

spixii. Black-capped Becard Pachyramphus marginatus: Several records of birds of the nominate race, also

at the nest. Crested Becard Pachyramphus validus: Many observations, often at the large unkempt nests of birds

of the nominate race. Black-tailed Tityra Tityra cayana: Regular encounters. Remember the distinctive nasal grunting call.

The race involved (braziliensis) shows much less red on the bill than Amazonian birds. Black-crowned Tityra Tityra inquisitor: Many observations of the nominate race. CORVIDAE Azure Jay Cyanocorax caeruleus: Excellent observations of this fetching jay in the forests of southern

Sao Paulo. This Atlantic Forest endemic seems to have almost disappeared from NE Argentina and E Paraguay, as there are very few recent records. It prefers Araucaria forest and is treated as Near-Threatened in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

VIREONIDAE Rufous-browed Peppershrike Cyclarhis gujanensis: Several close up observations of this widespread

species (ochrocephala). Its very distinctive song is a commonly heard sound in the forests of SE Brazil.

Red-eyed Vireo Vireo olivaceus: Common all over our circuit. These resident birds are sometimes considered a separate species, Chivi Vireo Vireo chivi, but grounds for this split are a bit thin.


Rufous-crowned Greenlet Hylophilus poicilotis: Many splendid encounters. The northern form, occurring from northern Sao Paulo and southern Bahia north is now split off as a separate species: Grey-eyed Greenlet H. amaurocephalus.

Lemon-chested Greenlet Hylophilus thoracicus: Glorious views of several birds of the isolated nominate race at Angra dos Reis.

TURDIDAE Yellow-legged Thrush Platycichla flavipes: Especially common in the Serra da Graciosa and in the

higher reaches of the Serra dos Orgãos (nominate). Rufous-bellied Thrush Turdus rufiventris: Common all over the place (nominate). Pale-breasted Thrush Turdus leucomelas: Several observations of the nominate race. Creamy-bellied Thrush Turdus amaurochalinus: Quite common. Remember the characteristic

quivering of the tail!! White-necked Thrush Turdus albicollis: Several observations of the nominate race. MIMIDAE Chalk-browed Mockingbird Mimus saturninus: A fairly common and obvious open country

inhabitant (modulator). TROGLODYTIDAE Black-capped Donacobius Donacobius atricapillus: One showed uncharacteristically briefly in a

patch of marsh at Sooretama. Thrush-like Wren Campylorhynchus turdinus (H): These noisy birds were often heard in the forests

of Espirito Santo (nominate). Moustached Wren Thryothorus genibarbis (H): We heard this widespread species distantly at

Sooretama (intercedens). Long-billed Wren Thryothorus longirostris: A nice performance of a pair at Itanhaem. An eastern

Brazil endemic, occurring in two disjunct populations (nominate). Southern House Wren Troglodytes musculus: Very common all over the place (nominate). POLIOPTILIDAE Long-billed Gnatwren Ramphocaenus melanurus: Seen at Sooretama, but we always seemed to be

busy with an endemic (nominate). HIRUNDINIDAE White-rumped Swallow Tachycineta leucorrhoa: Several nice observations. Brown-chested Martin Phaeoprogne tapera: Just a handful of sightings (fusca). Grey-breasted Martin Progne chalybea: Common all over (macrorhamphus). Blue-and-white Swallow Notiochelidon cyanoleuca: The nominate race was common everywhere. Southern Rough-winged Swallow Stelgidopteryx ruficollis: Very common (nominate). Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica: Two flew over the beach at Itanhaem in southern Sao Paulo state. PASSERIDAE House Sparrow Passer domesticus: Common in villages and towns. MOTACILLIDAE Yellowish Pipit Anthus lutescens: One showed briefly over an open area at Sooretama. FRINGILLIDAE Hooded Siskin Carduelis magellanica: Several observations (icterica).


PARULIDAE Tropical Parula Parula pitiayumi : Regular observations of this little gem. The scientific epithet is a

Guarani (Paraguayan) Indian name meaning little yellow chest. Southern Yellowthroat Geothlypis velata: Several sightings. This form is sometimes lumped in

Masked Yellowthroat G. aequinoctialis. Golden-crowned Warbler Basileuterus culicivorus: Commonly encountered (azarae). White-browed Warbler (White-rimmed W) Basileuterus leucoblepharus: A few seen and many heard

in the higher reaches of Itatiaia and in the Serra dos Orgãos. A highly distinctive voice. Neotropical River Warbler Basileuterus rivularis: Great looks at Volta Velha (nominate). EMBERIZIDAE Rufous-collared Sparrow Zonotrichia capensis: Everywhere (subtorquata). If it only was rare….. Grassland Sparrow Ammodramus humeralis: One or two showed well at Volta Velha. Half-collared Sparrow Arremon semitorquatus (H): We heard this SE Brazil endemic at Intervales,

but it didn’t want to show. This is a recent split from Pectoral Sparrow Arremon taciturnus.

Bananaquit Coereba flaveola: Common, sometimes a bit too common. Chestnut-vented Conebill Conirostrum speciosum: Excellent views of several birds at Rio Doce and

Sooretama(nominate). Bicoloured Conebill Conirostrum bicolor: A single bird showed very well in the mangroves at Vitoria

(bicolor). Brown Tanager Orchesticus abeillei: Repeated good views of this SE Brazil endemic. It is treated as

Near-Threatened in “Threatened Birds of the World”. The genus name is derived from the Greek orkhestikos (= of dancing), as it was originally described as allied to the genus Saltator (= a dancer, in Latin).

Cinnamon Tanager Schistochlamys ruficapillus: Excellent views of the nominate race at Nova Lombardia.

Magpie Tanager Cissopis leveriana: Regular sightings at Itatiaia (major). Chestnut-headed Tanager Pyrrhocoma ruficeps: Lovely views of this bamboo specialist in the Serra

da Graciosa. An Atlantic Forest endemic. Orange-headed Tanager Thlypopsis sordida: A few sightings of this widespread species. Guira Tanager Hemithraupis guira (NL): A male was observed by Daniel at Nova Lombardia. Rufous-headed Tanager Hemithraupis ruficapilla: Many splendid looks at this fancy SE Brazil

endemic (nominate). Yellow-backed Tanager Hemithraupis flavicollis: A few showed well at Rio Doce.(insignis). Hooded Tanager Nemosia pileata: Several great looks at this lovely species (caerulea). Olive-green Tanager Orthogonys chloricterus: A party of eight performed well at Intervales. A SE

Brazil endemic. Flame-crested Tanager Tachyphonus cristatus: Many splendid views of this eye-catching species

(brunneus). Ruby-crowned Tanager Tachyphonus coronatus: Common. We even managed to scope a lustrous

black male and admire the usually hidden narrow scarlet streak on the hind crown. Black-goggled Tanager Trichothraupis melanops: Several nice encounters. Red-crowned Ant-Tanager Habia rubica: Fairly common, usually with understorey flocks (nominate). Brazilian Tanager Ramphocelus bresilius: Many fabulous observations of this jewel of a bird. It is

often trapped for the cagebird trade, but is luckily still common in many areas. It is endemic to coastal eastern Brazil.

Sayaca Tanager Thraupis sayaca: Ubiquitous. Sayaca is a Tupi (Brazilian) Indian name for a kind of finch.


Azure-shouldered Tanager Thraupis cyanoptera: Regular observations of this Brazilian endemic. It was once considered rare, but has now been found to be more common and widespread. It is treated as Near-Threatened in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Golden-chevroned Tanager Thraupis ornata: Many encounters with this SE Brazil endemic. Palm Tanager Thraupis palmarum: Everywhere (nominate). Diademed Tanager Stephanophorus diadematus: Repeated fantastic views of these really stunning

Atlantic Forest endemics. Fawn-breasted Tanager Pipraeidea melanonota: Several encounters (nominate). Purple-throated Euphonia Euphonia chlorotica (H): We heard the race serrirostris at Rio Doce. Violaceous Euphonia Euphonia violacea: Regularly observed (auranticollis). Green-chinned Euphonia Euphonia chalybea (H): We heard the distinctive song at Volta Velha, but

couldn’t locate the bird. Golden-rumped Euphonia Euphonia cyanocephala: Regular views of cracking males and more

modest females. Orange-bellied Euphonia Euphonia xanthogaster: One or two observations. Chestnut-bellied Euphonia Euphonia pectoralis: Many exquisite views of this smart Atlantic Forest

endemic. Green-headed Tanager Tangara seledon: Many superb close up studies of a pretty Atlantic Forest

endemic. Red-necked Tanager Tangara cyanocephala: Many terrific looks at the nominate race of another

Atlantic Forest endemic. Brassy-breasted Tanager Tangara desmaresti: This striking species showed ad libidum and is endemic

to the coastal mountains of SE Brazil. Gilt-edged Tanager Tangara cyanoventris: Another fantastic endemic of the SE Brazil forests. Burnished-buff Tanager Tangara cayana: Fairly common (chloroptera). Black-backed Tanager Tangara peruviana: A fantastic male was scoped in a fruiting tree and showed

at length. This little-known species is endemic to coastal SE Brazil and is treated as Vulnerable in “Threatened Birds of the World”. A new species for the Birdquest lifelist and for everyone on the tour!! The scientific epithet doesn’t make a lot of sense!!

Chestnut-backed Tanager Tangara preciosa: We found this rarely-seen, but really precious species in the Serra da Graciosa and again at Angra dos Reis. It is endemic to the Atlantic Forest.

Blue Dacnis Dacnis cayana: Common all over the place (paraguayensis). Green Honeycreeper Chlorophanes spiza: Just a few records of this widespread species (axillaris). Red-legged Honeycreeper Cyanerpes cyaneus: A couple of sightings at Sooretama. Pileated Finch Coryphospingus pileatus: Several showed very well whilst mobbing that angry

Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl. Uniform Finch Haplospiza unicolor: We were, again, lucky with the flowering and seeding of the

bamboo at Intervales and hence this species turned out to be regular. Great looks at this Atlantic Forest endemic.

Bay-chested Warbling-Finch Poospiza thoracica: Superb looks at this smart SE Brazil endemic along the Agulhas Negras road at Itatiaia and in the Serra dos Orgãos. Poospiza stands for grass finch (poe =grass and spiza=finch in Greek).

Red-rumped Warbling-Finch Poospiza lateralis: First seen at the Serra da Graciosa and then again along the Agulhas Negras road at Itatiaia (nominate). An Atlantic Forest endemic.

Saffron Finch Sicalis flaveola: Regular sightings (pelzelni). Wedge-tailed Grass-Finch Emberizoides herbicola: One or two showed well at the Wetland

Tapaculo spot. Great Pampa-Finch Embernagra platensis: A few observations of this widespread open country

species. Blue-black Grassquit Volatinia jacarina: Fairly common ( nominate).


Buffy-fronted Seedeater Sporophila frontalis: We were lucky with the flowering and seeding of the bamboo at Intervales and hence this species turned out to be regular. It is almost never seen away from this irregular phenomenon. This Atlantic Forest endemic offered great views and is treated as Vulnerable in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Temminck’s Seedeater Sporophila falcirostris: Another species that is only recorded where and when bamboo is flowering and seeding. Excellent views of adult males at Intervales. Another Atlantic Forest endemic. It is treated as Vulnerable in “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Double-collared Seedeater Sporophila caerulescens: Common (nominate). Sooty Grassquit Tiaris fuliginosa: We all heard its distinctive song at Intervales, and a few participants

managed to see this little critter. Green Grosbeak (Yellow-green G) Caryothraustes canadensis: A few in the Espirito Santo forests

(brasiliensis). A scientific name that doesn’t make much sense. Black-throated Grosbeak Pitylus fuliginosus: Very nice views at Intervales. This species is now often

placed in the genus Saltator and is then renamed Black-throated Saltator Saltator fuliginosus.

Buff-throated Saltator Saltator maximus: A few observations of the race maximus. Green-winged Saltator Saltator similis: Several encounters with this Atlantic Forest endemic

(nominate). Thick-billed Saltator Saltator maxillosus: Great looks at several highland locations. An Atlantic Forest

endemic. ICTERIDAE Crested Oropendola Psarocolius decumanus: Quite regular (maculosus). Red-rumped Cacique Cacicus haemorrhous: We witnessed the antics of these very social birds at

several colonies (affinis). Golden-winged Cacique Cacicus chrysopterus: Just four of these smart-looking birds at Intervales. White-browed Blackbird Leistes superciliaris: A few in a meadow near Linhares and at Sooretama. Yellow-rumped Marshbird Pseudoleistes guirahuro: A few in open areas of Sao Paulo state. Epaulet Oriole Icterus cayanensis: A single bird showed well in a colony of Red-rumped Caciques at

Rio Doce. Chopi Blackbird Gnorimopsar chopi: Common in open areas (nominate). Chopi is an onomatopoeic

Guarani (Paraguayan) Indian name for this species. Shiny Cowbird Molothrus bonariensis: A handful of observations only (nominate). MAMMALS Nine-banded Armadillo Dasypus novemcinctus: A single was found along a track at Volta Velha.

Always good fun. Forest Rabbit (Tapiti) Sylvilagus brasiliensis: A single at Sooretama. Guianan Squirrel Sciurus aestuans: Regular observations. Red-rumped Agouti Dasyprocta leporina: A few in the Espirito Santo forests. South American Coati Nasua nasua: Four sightings of this endearing little mammal. Geoffroy’s Marmoset Callithrix geoffroyi: A few showed extremely well at Rio Doce. This is a recent

split in the Common Marmoset complex. Masked Titi (M T Monkey) Callicebus personatus: Several excellent observations and also many

audio performances in Espirito Santo. Black-fronted Titi Callicebus nigrifrons: This is the titi some of us saw (and all of us heard) at Itatiaia.

It is now considered a separate species.


Brown Howler (Brown H Monkey) Alouatta guariba: Several good observations. There is quite a bit of variation in the area covered, but there is only one species involved. Great dawn choruses.

Red Brocket Mazama americana: A single at Rio Doce. Grey Brocket Mazama gouazoupira: Also seen at Rio Doce.

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