Limosa Holidays Trip Report Brazil Bird Report... · Many at Sumidouro with their huge stick nests...

Limosa Holidays Trip Report

Brazil The Atlantic Rainforest Thu 10th – Sat 19th March 2016

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Trip photos (clockwise, from top left): Giant Snipe • Streamer-tailed Tyrant • Three-toed Jacamar • Red-legged Seriema © tour leader Colin Bushell/Limosa Holidays Report compiled by tour leader: Colin Bushell ___________________________________________________________________________

© Limosa Holidays, West End Farmhouse, Chapelfield, Stalham Norfolk NR12 9EJ tel: +44 (0)1692 580623 • fax: +44 (0)1692 580624

email: [email protected] • website: www.limosaholidays.co.uk

Limosa Trip Report Brazil 10-19 March 2016

2 • © Limosa Holidays limosaholidays.co.uk

Brazil | The Atlantic Rainforest Tour Leader: Colin Bushell with Paul & Sandy Freeman and Lesley Coley Some tour highlights .......

• Unbeatable views of Giant Snipe at dusk with Short-tailed Nighthawks overhead. • Dry forest endemics like Three-toed Jacamar and Serra Antwren at Sumidouro. • Huge flocks of Black Skimmers near Cabo Frio where Restinga Antwren was easy to see on

Limosa's first visit to the coast in this region. • "Cotinga-fest" - the rare Grey-winged Cotinga, Black-and-Gold Cotinga, Hooded Berryeater and

Bare-throated Bellbird all seen during the tour. • 'Scope views of Sharpbill. • High percentage of birds seen were either Brazilian, or Atlantic Forest endemics. • Red-legged Seriemas so close you couldn't focus your binoculars on them! • Incredible views of hummers including a point-blank range Plovercrest.

10 March. "You'll love REGUA", were my first words to Paul and Sandy when we met at Terminal 5, London Heathrow on the first day of the Atlantic Forest tour. I knew I was on safe ground with this statement, having visited Guapi Assu Bird Lodge several times over recent years. We met up with Lesley at the departure gate for the British Airways flight direct to Rio de Janeiro. Eleven hours of thumbing through the field guide (with the odd break for a feature film) ensued and we arrived in Brazil with evening temperatures of 33 degrees centigrade and high humidity. The fleeces were off! Driver, Alceni was in arrivals and greeting us with his usual infectious smile and bubbly personality. In no time at all we were on the road to Reserva Ecologica de Guapiacu (hereafter REGUA), a journey of around two hours with the built-up areas of Rio soon giving way to rural countryside. Tomas, the resident administrator at REGUA was there to greet us with snacks and refreshments before we retired to our rooms for the night. 11 March. With the late arrival in REGUA the previous evening we opted for a leisurely start on our first full day in the field. The beauty of REGUA is the accessible birding on the lodge doorstep. Optional pre-breakfast birding proved popular with our first views of Channel-billed Toucans as we gazed across the wetland to the forested hills beyond - a swathe of green, packed with Atlantic Forest endemic species! In no time at all we had seen Violet-capped Woodnymph, Rufous-breasted Hermits, Swallow-tailed Hummingbirds and Black Jacobins on the hummingbird feeders in the garden and a wealth of wetland birds from the platform. Noisy Boat-billed Flycatchers, Great Kiskadees and Social Flycatchers flitted around the trees bordering the clearing and Wattled Jacanas, Ringed Kingfishers and Greater Anis were watched through the 'scope on the wetland below us as Yellow-headed Caracaras flew overhead. Breakfast was punctuated with appearances of various visitors to the garden like Glittering-throated Emerald and Violaceous Euphonia before it was time to head out for our first taste of birding the trails. Adelei was our guide today and was soon showing us Brazilian endemics like Grey-headed Tody-flycatcher among the more widespread Neotropical species such as Blue Dacnis, White-headed Marsh Tyrant, Masked Water Tyrant and Cattle Tyrant. Adelei located a pair of roosting Tropical Screech Owls just before we turned off to the trail around the wetland. Black-bellied Whistling Ducks, Southern Lapwings and American Moorhens greeted us as we scanned across the wetland but it was the wooded margins and islands that held our initial interest. Saffron Finches, Lined Seedeaters and Common Waxbills appeared nearby but better still, a female Black-legged Dacnis was found. Later Adelei located a small flock of Black-legged Dacnis working the trees along the trail. We had good 'scope views of this Brazilian endemic before moving on to other birds along the trails. Although it was a little humid, conditions were otherwise perfect for birding with an overcast sky. We were able to work the area until lunchtime, seeing a good variety of species including White-flanked Antwren, a stunning male Chestnut-backed Antshrike, a pair of Slaty-breasted Wood Rails that dashed across the trail, Blond-crested Woodpecker and Piratic Flycatcher.



The return walk around another lagoon allowed us to view some of the non-avian inhabitants of the wetland such as Broad-snouted Caiman and Capybaras, some of the latter hiding under island vegetation with their young. Birds associated with damp areas such as Black-capped Donacobius and Chestnut-capped Blackbird appeared although Blackish Rails refused to cooperate. However, our luck was in with the Rufous-sided Crake, three being enticed across a small gap in the reeds for absolutely marvellous views! Heading back to the lodge for lunch we picked up White-barred Piculet, Rufous-tailed Jacamar, Yellow-chinned Spinetail and Lemon-chested Greenlet while Brazilian Teals and Muscovy Ducks were seen on the water. Red-cowled Cardinal and Sooretama Slaty Antshrike - two more endemics - were seen before we made it up the short slope to the garden and a welcome lunch. We ventured out into the field again after a siesta in the afternoon. This time we boarded the Toyota truck that took us outside the reserve. Timing our visit so we could have a few hours before dusk in open country we saw a different suite of non-forest species. Yellow-bellied Elaenia, Yellow-browed Tyrant, Wedge-tailed Grass Finch, Grassland Sparrow and Chalk-browed Mockingbird all fell into this category. A few Burrowing Owls looked on as we watched Campo Flickers and a superb pair of Streamer-tailed Tyrants that performed so well for us as the afternoon light faded. Ash-throated Crakes showed well at the edge of the longer grass in the pasture below us. But the main event required us to venture into the field as Adelei played the recording of Giant Snipe. A few could be heard in the distance and it seemed we were maybe a little too far from the singing birds when one sang very close by! A quick sweep with the flashlight revealed a Giant Snipe, crouching in the damp grass, "bobbing" as it sang. We enjoyed incredible views, even through the 'scope with the aid of the lamp. Our experience was enhanced further as a couple of Short-tailed Nighthawks buzzed over our heads just before we made our way back to the truck. We enjoyed our dinner and Caipirinhas very much indeed that night! 12 March. With a favourable weather forecast for REGUA but poor for other sites on our programme, we decided to stay on the reserve today. We took an early breakfast before boarding the Toyota once again on a short journey to the Green Trail. Our drive was interrupted a few times for open country birds such as Double-collared Seedeater, American Kestrels, a fine Savannah Hawk and a Green-barred Flicker seen in flight. Arriving on the Green Trail we were soon in the swing of Neotropical forest birding, searching for canopy species like Streak-capped Antwren and understory dwellers like Southern Antpipit. The latter certainly showed well whereas the antwren gave us the run around as well as a sore neck! The pair of Black-cheeked Gnateaters (a REGUA speciality) at ground level was a welcome respite from canopy birding. Grey-hooded Flycatcher and Grey-hooded Attila, two species with basically the same plumage pattern and both Atlantic Forest endemics, appeared in the same forest patch as did Surucua and Black-throated Trogons. Eared Pygmy Tyrant and Eye-ringed Tody-tyrant kept us busy as these small birds buzzed around the sub canopy or a little lower - Neotropical birding can be mind-boggling at times. Our first mixed species flock appeared and mainly consisted of Flame-crested Tanagers and just a few Green-headed Tanagers. Greyish Mourner, White-necked Thrush and Blue Manakin all made appearances before we moved on. A little further along the trail we had superb views of Star-throated Antwren, a male Pin-tailed Manakin and Unicoloured Antwren, all species restricted to these forests of eastern Brazil. Our second mixed species flock held a little more variety than the first, although still mainly comprised of Flame-crested Tanagers. Yellow-throated Woodpecker played hard to get (but get it we did!), but a trio of woodcreepers - Lesser, Olivaceous and Plain-winged - were easier. Ochre-breasted Foliage-gleaner and Ochre-bellied Flycatcher made up the list of birds before we turned back towards the truck. This didn't mean that birding was over of course with Plain Parakeets and Golden-tailed Parrotlets whizzing through the treetops before we boarded the Toyota and headed down for lunch at the lodge. The afternoon unfortunately was a bit of a wash out. Thunder storms hit REGUA, even cutting power to the lodge for an hour or so. A short walk to the wetland between showers did produce Capped Heron plus the regular birds there. 13 March. With a widespread favourable forecast we decided on a change of venue this morning and headed to Sumidouro. Crossing the Serra dos Orgaos we soon realised we had done the right thing as the mountains were shrouded in rain-filled cloud. Driving into drier country we stopped by the Rio Preto where Short-tailed Hawk soared high above us with huge numbers of American Black Vultures. Moving on we saw Crested Black Tyrants and Toco Toucans by the roadside before finally reaching the dry



forests above Carmo. Adelei soon had a few birds lined up for us - Long-tailed Tyrant, Brown-crested Flycatcher and Sepia-capped Flycatcher before the star bird appeared. Three-toed Jacamar is a rare endemic found in these forest fragments. Being a hole-nester they also need steep sided banks and this area of the Sumidouro road fits the bill perfectly. We saw up to fifteen of these rather understated jacamars (not as gaudy as many of there commoner relatives), some posing in groups of three or four birds on roadside twigs. A photographer's dream indeed! The next target species - the Serra Antwren - took a little more persuading to show. Indeed one singing bird refused to show whereas the next performed wonderfully, even bringing his partner to the event! Yellow-eared Woodpeckers, Golden-crowned Warblers, Burnished Buff Tanagers and Sooty Grassquits were seen as we strolled along the road. Hangnest Tody-tyrants could be heard along the length of the road and we finally found one to look at before the bus came into sight with Alceni distributing the packed lunches. The taller forest at this point held some good birds like Rufous-capped Spinetail, the exquisite Scaled Woodcreeper and a pair of Rufous Gnateaters that showed wonderfully well. After lunch we drove into open country, quickly locating Striped Cuckoo, Scaled Doves and the endemic Campo Troupial. Looking for the latter bird led to locating four Red-legged Seriemas on the far hillside. A most welcome find and we watched them walk down to a track and then dust bath before disappearing. The open farmland was surprisingly good for birds, even in the soaring afternoon heat, with White-eared Puffbirds, Firewood-gatherer and Variegated Flycatcher being quickly found. Scrutiny of birds perched on fence wires revealed two White-rumped Monjitas next to a Grey Monjita with a small damp patch holding Whistling Heron and Streamer-tailed Tyrant. Eventually the heat became unbearable and it was time to leave. The mountains were still in cloud as we retraced our steps and REGUA had suffered heavy rainfall. Our day in the dry forests of Carmo and Sumidouro had been a real success though. 14 March. Another day away from REGUA today saw us heading for the coast. This was a first trip for a Limosa group so it added some variety to the bird list for the tour. Our destination was Cabo Frio where some remnant Restinga (low coastal forest and scrub) can still be found. Like many habitats in Brazil it's disappearing fast but this time due to development of the coastal strip for tourism. On the way to the coast we stopped in some of the bays to look for shorebirds. Igor was our guide today and with his help we set about the task of finding some coastal species that would feature on a Limosa REGUA tour for the first time. The variety of shorebirds was as expected, a little less than my previous September visits when migration is in full flow. However the huge gathering of Black Skimmers was a nice sight. A quick count and some estimation of another distant flock across the bay arrived at a conservative figure of 350+. It was a real treat when the closer birds began skimming too! Grey-headed and Kelp Gulls were common here but we failed to relocate the Franklin's Gull found by the Finnish birders staying at REGUA the previous day. There were large numbers of White-backed Stilts on the pans with slightly fewer Lesser Yellowlegs. Igor found us a very nice summer plumage Greater Yellowlegs too. White-cheeked Pintail, Roseate Spoonbills, Little Blue Herons, Semipalmated Plovers, a Willet and Spotted Sandpipers were all on view, some of the latter in their attractive summer dress. Offshore we could see some Cabot's Terns as well as a few Royal Terns. The Restinga is never very lively for birds in my experience. This specialised habitat supports a very small variety of species but some are very rare indeed. One of these - the Restinga Antwren - is quite easy to see though and we had secured good views of male and female of this rare endemic (but see my annotated notes in species list for more detail) soon after entering the Restinga. Sooretama Slaty Antshrike, Fuscous Flycatcher, Brown-crested Flycatcher, Hangnest Tody-tyrant and the gaudy Brazilian Tanager were all present in the Restinga. There was no sign of any Black-backed Tanagers though, but these can be very difficult to find in the almost impenetrable forest here. Although we'd chosen a weekday to visit Cabo Frio the beach was very busy with swimmers and sunbathers and unfortunately another storm made its way in, bringing our day to a very abrupt end. 15 March. We were due a break from the travelling today so we concentrated on REGUA with its extensive network of trails. The rather wet weather as the rainy season was coming to an end meant we could only drive a fraction of the 4x4 Trail before it became too slippery. We began walking in the direction of Casa Anibal but the forest was rather quiet. Fortunately we had Adelei with us and his sharp eyes picked out an Orange-spined Hairy Dwarf Porcupine sleeping in a tree. A little further on a Green Vine Snake was stretched across the trail and then, at last, there was a bird flock. As usual there were plenty of Flame-



crested Tanagers but this time they were joined by Chestnut-crowned Becards and Black-capped, Buff-fronted and Ochre-breasted Foliage-gleaners. Both Black-and-white Hawk Eagle and Black Hawk Eagle were in the clear blue sky overhead. Unfortunately only a few saw the former and the latter was only heard through the dense canopy above us. A Rufous-capped Motmot kept frustration levels high by remaining invisible until another mixed species flock came through. This time Rufous-winged Antwrens, Yellow-olive Flycatchers, Streak-capped Antwrens and Streaked Xenops showed well as well as an Euler's Flycatcher that appeared to be trailing the flock. Perhaps the best moment of the morning followed the disappearance of the flock when a pair of Scaled Antbirds came into view. REGUA is a really good place to see this attractive endemic, with the male in its greyish-white and black plumage, mirrored by the female's brown and white colours. Other birds seen this morning included Yellow-eared and Yellow-throated Woodpeckers as well as White-barred Piculet but it had been a humid morning and we were glad to see the truck again as we descended the trail. After lunch we made our way to the Brown Trail in search of Shrike-like Cotinga. Unfortunately the weather beat us again and we made a hasty retreat from the storm! 16 March. We set out early in fine conditions this morning to the uplands of Macae de Cima in the Tres Picos National Park. Our first Crested Oropendola of the tour appeared as we boarded the bus, before transferring to the Toyota to complete the ascent on unmade roads. Drab-breasted Pygmy Tyrant called from the bamboo and four were quickly located by Adelei. Mottle-cheeked Tyrannulet appeared soon after but the White-browed Warbler just wouldn't do the same, despite almost continuous singing below the road. We were soon among montane Atlantic Forest species, many of them endemic to Brazil. Pale-browed Treehunter, Ochre-rumped Antbird, Bertoni's Antbird, Black-billed Scythebill and a cracking flock of Brassy-breasted Tanagers feeding in the mossy trunks and bamboo stands made the start of our walk very entertaining indeed! A Sharp-tailed Streamcreeper showed briefly but well before we jumped in, or on (depending if you were on the back or not!) the Toyota and headed higher. The small clearing at the top of the road is always a good vantage point to look for Black-and-Gold Cotinga, a species frequenting the canopy of these humid montane forests. Although one was continuously singing we just could not see it. A flying female was little compensation but the hummingbirds were a delight here with Scale-throated Hermit, Brazilian Ruby and White-throated Hummingbird fairly regular at the feeders. A female Plovercrest appeared briefly but did not hang around too long. With seats available we decided to take an early lunch. This was fortuitous as Saffron Toucanets accompanied by some Spot-billed Toucanets appeared on cue in trees fringing the clearing. Scanning the canopy failed to produce the hoped-for cotinga but we were rewarded with Green-throated Euphonia, Blue-billed Black Tyrants, Cliff Flycatchers and a Shear-tailed Grey Tyrant as we retraced our steps downwards. A party of Golden-tailed Parrotlets gave a few opportunities to see this species, albeit briefly, before Adelei located a Sharpbill that had been singing intermittently. We were so engrossed with this bird, by now being fully appreciated in the 'scope, that we nearly missed a passing flock. Thankfully Adelei alerted us as more Brassy-breasted Tanagers, Pale-browed Treehunters, a Sharp-billed Treehunter, Rufous-crowned Greenlets and best of all, Hooded Berryeater came into view. Dragging ourselves away from the Sharpbill had paid dividends after all. We were watching Variable Antshrikes when the clouds rolled in, followed by a quite intense downpour. We made for the lower slopes where we saw Cinnamon Tanager well but alas the rain followed us, with increasing intensity. 17 March. Another highland area in reach of REGUA is the Pico do Caledonia near Teresopolis. This was our venue and we had the pleasure of Nicholas Locke's company on the mountain. Nicholas owns property at REGUA and the conservation project there is testament to his vision for Atlantic Forest conservation. After an early breakfast and passing through the streets of Teresopolis we arrived at Caledonia where Nicholas was waiting with the Toyota. After a short break for coffee we headed up the mountain, through the Eucalyptus-clad lower slopes and into the cloud forest. Our main target bird here is the rare, endemic Grey-winged Cotinga’ a bird living near the top of the mountain in the humid elfin forests. Known only from a handful of Brazilian sites it can be a tough task to find it, but Nicholas knew the exact spot to look at around 2,000 metres above sea-level. We waited a while, then suddenly there was a moss-coloured figure on a trunk in the mist. Unfortunately a bank of cloud rolled in just as the Grey-winged Cotinga appeared and as the cloud broke the bird had gone! Nearly an hour passed with just one more brief sighting of this rarity. Our time was not wasted though as Diademed Tanagers, Bay-chested Warbling Finches and Pallid Spinetails appeared from time to time.



One of the trip highlights was the Plovercrest that perched in front of us as we waited patiently for the cotinga. Rufous-tailed Antbird took a little more persuading to show, it has to be said! Nicholas promised to show us a trail "with all the birds apart from penguins", so how could we refuse? We did have to stop to watch Black-and-Gold Cotinga singing over the trail, but otherwise our progress was quite rapid! Descending in the Toyota we suddenly took a turning, leading to a nice patch of forest. What followed was quite unexpected: a Red-legged Seriema trotting along the track! Approaching the vehicle it seemed quite unperturbed by our presence and hopped up on a fencepost opposite the Toyota and started calling! The behaviour reminded me of one of the "rogue" Capercaillies rarely encountered in the forests of Speyside that confront walkers on the tracks there. Eventually it leapt off the fence and ran along the track where it was joined by two more seriemas. A bizarre series of events. We relaxed for a while and ate lunch by the Toyota before heading along the trail and into the forest. This patch was very good for birds and we found Red-eyed Thornbirds almost immediately alongside Buff-browed Foliage-gleaners. The other highlight here was the Serra do Mar Tyrant-Manakin seen so well and very responsive to playback indeed. We were watching Lineated Woodpecker as a White-rumped Hawk flew into view and our walk back to the vehicle was punctuated with other good birds like Dusky-tailed Antbird. It was indeed a very good trail, even if there were no penguins! Our last stop for Half-collared Sparrow was unfortunately unsuccessful (although we did hear one). As always in the Neotropics there's always something to see though and we found Ruby-crowned Tanager prior to the rain setting in as we left Caledonia. 18 March. Adelei was with us again today and we headed to the Waldenoor Trail; one of REGUA's highest but accessible by vehicle. A brief stop at a low clearing produced our only White-thighed Swallows of the tour as well as another brief view of Blond-crested Woodpecker before driving higher. Before reaching the turning point we had to stop for an immaculate White-necked Hawk perched by the track at the forest edge. What a start! Leaving the vehicle the first forest patch held Saw-billed Hermits and Olive-green Tanager before we started the short hike along the rocky trail. Waldenoor was good for flocks and our first one held Crested and White-winged Becards, Orange-bellied Euphonias, Sepia-capped and Whiskered Flycatchers, Black-goggled Tanagers and Chestnut-vented Conebills. Rufous-crowned Ant-tanager was new for the tour here as was the White-throated Spadebill that performed well right next to the trail. Returning to the lower section of the trail we found our only Bare-throated Bellbird of the trip, a very welcome sight even if it was only a female. Lingering on this section rewarded us with Black-throated Trogon and better still, a superb pair of Streak-chested Puffbirds. Descending in the vehicle we crossed paths with a Rufous-capped Motmot but it disappeared rather quickly unfortunately. We returned to the lodge in good time to check the garden where a nice flock of Maroon-bellied Parakeets were using the tall trees for shade from the hot midday sun. The rest of the afternoon was free time for a last look at the wetland or garden and packing for the long journey home. REGUA staff were kind enough to prepare a light meal prior to our departure for the airport after settling accounts and bidding farewell to Nicholas and Raquel and the staff. Alceni arrived with his bus for the trip to Rio de Janeiro which was a trouble-free journey and we checked in for the British Airways flight to London in good time. 19 March. We arrived in Heathrow nearly an hour ahead of schedule and in a somewhat different climate than we had become accustomed to over the last ten days! With all luggage retrieved we said our goodbyes; I look forward to meeting you all again for another birding adventure with Limosa very soon!



Annotated Species Checklist Brown Tinamou Crypturellus obsoletus Heard in the highlands of Macae de Cima and Pico de Caledonia but not seen. Tataupa Tinamou Crypturellus tataupa Heard on two dates at REGUA. Rusty-margined Guan Penelope superciliaris A couple of birds lurking around the lodge garden were seen on three dates at REGUA. Dusky-legged Guan Penelope obscura Seen at Macae de Cima and heard at the foot of Pico do Caledonia the following day. Black-bellied Whistling Duck Dendrocygna autumnalis Small numbers (3 - 4 birds) on the REGUA wetlands throughout our stay. Muscovy Duck Cairina moschata A group of eight birds frequenting the REGUA wetland throughout our stay. Brazilian Teal Amazonetta brasiliensis Just one or two on the REGUA wetlands and roadside marshes near Carmo. White-cheeked Pintail Anas bahamensis Only seen on our trip to the coast near Cabo Frio where a few small flocks were seen. Roseate Spoonbill Platalea ajaja Several in marshes close to Cabo Frio. Rufescent Tiger Heron Tigrisoma lineatum One adult on the REGUA wetlands. Striated Heron Buturoides striata Ones and twos most days on the REGUA wetlands and a few near Cabo Frio. Western Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis Common and seen daily with sizeable roosts at REGUA and elsewhere on the road from Guapi Assu. Cocoi Heron Ardea cocoi A single bird seen on two dates on the REGUA wetland. Great Egret Ardea alba Most were seen near Cabo Frio but smaller numbers near Carmo and REGUA as well. Capped Heron Pilherodius pileatus One or two birds seen regularly on the REGUA wetland. Whistling Heron Syrigma sibilatrix Two seen near Carmo during an excellent afternoon's spell of birding in the dry country. Little Blue Heron Egretta caerulea Common at Cabo Frio. Snowy Egret Egretta thula Small numbers around the REGUA wetland and more numerous near the coast at Cabo Frio. Magnificent Frigatebird Fregata magnificens Common in the skies around Cabo Frio. Neotropic Cormorant Phalacrocorax brasilianus Small numbers on the REGUA wetland and a few at Cabo Frio. Anhinga Anhinga anhinga Single bird on two dates on the REGUA wetland. Turkey Vulture Cathartes aura Common; seen every day. Lesser Yellow-headed Vulture Cathartes burrovianus One at REGUA on two dates. American Black Vulture Coragyps atratus Seen daily and very numerous, especially near rubbish tips! Southern Caracara Caracara plancus Seen almost daily; often in large numbers but always in more open country. Yellow-headed Caracara Milvago chimachima Again, numerous in open country and seen almost daily. Possibly more tolerant of partially forested areas than the above species. Laughing Falcon Herpetotheres cachinnans Heard at dawn near the lodge at REGUA on the final day of the tour. American Kestrel Falco sparverius Pairs seen in open country en route to the 4x4 Trail at REGUA and near Sumidouro the next day.



White-necked Hawk Leucopternis lacernulatus One along the Waldenoor Trail on our final morning of the tour. This attractive forest-dwelling raptor is endemic to Brazil and can only be found in the Atlantic Forests. It is declining and classed as 'Vulnerable' by BirdLife International. Savannah Hawk Buteogallus meridionalis One seen near REGUA on the way to the Green Trail. Roadside Hawk Buteo magnirostris We saw three or four of these during our travels in open country around REGUA. White-rumped Hawk Buteo leucorrhous One seen from the lower trail at Caledonia. Short-tailed Hawk Buteo brachyurus A pale morph bird seen near the Rio Preto as we travelled to Sumidouro. White-tailed Hawk Buteo albicaudatus One near Carmo and another over the hillsides near Pico do Caledonia. Black-and-white Hawk-eagle Spizastur melanoleucus One above the canopy from the 4x4 Trail wasn't seen by all members of the group unfortunately. Black Hawk-eagle Spizaetus tyrannus Heard from the 4x4 Trail at REGUA. Red-legged Seriema Cariama cristata We watched four at a distance near Carmo as they strutted through a field and then began to dust bathe on a path. However this event was eclipsed somewhat at Caledonia where a bird walked towards our vehicle, hopped up on a fencepost and began calling loudly next to the truck! After a while it continued on its way along the path, being joined by two more birds as it went. Rufous-sided Crake Laterallus melanophaius Readily heard at the REGUA wetlands and at least three enticed into view for excellent looks. Slaty-breasted Wood Rail Aramides saracura Often seen scurrying across the wetland tracks at REGUA and forest roads of Macae de Cima and Caledonia. Restricted to Atlantic Forests of southern Brazil, northern Argentina and eastern Paraguay. Ash-throated Crake Porzana albicollis Two seen in damp pasture near REGUA in the evening of the first full day in the field. Blackish Rail Pardirallus nigricans Heard at REGUA regularly but not seen. Purple Gallinule Porphyrio martinica Small numbers on the REGUA wetlands. America Moorhen Gallinula galeata Common on the REGUA wetlands. Also seen on various ponds during our travels and near Cabo Frio. White-backed Stilt Himantopus melanurus Very common at Cabo Frio. The taxonomy of this species is a little contentious. We also saw some "Black-necked Stilts" but closer scrutiny revealed birds exhibiting features of intergrades. Southern Lapwing Vanellus chilensis Common in open country. Semipalmated Plover Charadrius semipalmatus A few at Cabo Frio. Greater Yellowlegs Tringa melanoleuca A handsome individual in summer plumage at Cabo Frio. Lesser Yellowlegs Tringa flavipes Common at Cabo Frio. Solitary Sandpiper Tringa solitaria One at Cabo Frio. Spotted Sandpiper Actitis macularius Several at Cabo Frio including some immaculate birds in summer plumage. Willet Catoptrophorus semipalmatus Small numbers at Cabo Frio. Wattled Jacana Jacana jacana Fairly common at the REGUA wetlands and also seen on small ponds as we travelled to other sites. Giant Snipe Gallinago undulata Brilliant views of one near REGUA in damp pasture. After listening to several birds we made our way into the field where Adelei located a grounded bird and excellent views were obtained using the lamp. REGUA is surely one of the best places in the world to see this species.



Black Skimmer Rynchops niger At least 350 near Cabo Frio. It was a thrill to see such a large gathering over the shallows of the bay and roosting on the shoreline. Grey-headed Gull Chroicocephalus cirrocephalus Common at Cabo Frio. Kelp Gull Larus dominicanus Common at Cabo Frio. Royal Tern Thalasseus maximus Small numbers at Cabo Frio. Cabot's Tern Thalasseus acuflavidus Common at Cabo Frio. Feral Rock Dove Columba livia Common in towns. Picazuro Pigeon Patagioenas picazuro Widespread and fairly common; seen most days and at most sites visited. Pale-vented Pigeon Patagioenas cayennensis A few at Caledonia on the lower slopes. Plumbeous Pigeon Patagioenas plumbea A few in the uplands of Macae de Cima and Caledonia only. Scaled Dove Columbina squammata Two near Carmo. Ruddy Ground Dove Columbina talpacoti Seen most days around REGUA and in open country elsewhere. White-tipped Dove Leptotila verreauxi Seen on four dates. Often seen just disappearing from the trail ahead of us. White-eyed Parakeet Aratinga leucopthalma Heard at Carmo and Sumidouro before finally being seen at Caledonia later in the tour. Maroon-bellied Parakeet Pyrrhura frontalis With so many "heard only" records as birds flew through the canopy, it was with some relief that a flock decided to frequent the lodge garden at REGUA on the final morning. Thirty or so birds gave great views as they sheltered from the hot southern summer sun before dropping to the feeders briefly. Restricted to the Atlantic Forest belt. Blue-winged Parrotlet Forpus xanthopterygius Small parties seen at REGUA on two dates and heard elsewhere. Plain Parakeet Brotogeris tirica Recorded on three dates but this Brazilian endemic remained elusive and we had to be content with just brief flight views. Pileated Parrot Pionopsitta pileata Heard at Caledonia. Scaly-headed Parrot Pionus maximiliani Heard only. Our best chance of seeing this species was thwarted by thick cloud at Caledonia when a small flock flew by! Squirrel Cuckoo Piaya cayana Recorded at every site except Cabo Frio with ones and twos most days. Greater Ani Crotophaga major Seen most days around the REGUA wetland. Smooth-billed Ani Crotophaga ani Again recorded nearly daily but unlike its larger relative, not restricted to damp areas. Guira Cuckoo Guira guira Recorded on four dates. Regular sightings from the open country near the REGUA turn off (usually a party on cables) and a few in the Carmo and Sumidouro area. Striped Cuckoo Tapera naevia Heard near REGUA as we attempted to see Giant Snipe and then seen well near Carmo. Tropical Screech Owl Megascops choliba Two roosting near the REGUA offices at the start of our first walk was a good introduction. A favoured site for this species on the reserve. Ferruginous Pygmy Owl Glaucidium brasilianum One seen well just outside the lodge garden on the last morning of the tour. Heard before breakfast most days.



Burrowing Owl Athene cunicularia At least three in the pasture area where we saw Giant Snipe. Short-tailed Nighthawk Lurocalis semitorquatus Two circled us at dusk just as we put the flashlights away after watching Giant Snipe. Magic! Pauraque Nyctidromus albicollis Heard outside the lodge at REGUA. White-collared Swift Streptoprocne zonaris Recorded on five dates with some big concentrations of birds prior to the storms. Sick's Swift Chaetura meridionalis About ten seen over one of the clearings at REGUA on our first full day in the reserve. Many small swifts were left unidentified due to the poor viewing conditions at the time of observation and by virtue of the difficulty of identifying them. Saw-billed Hermit Ramphodon naevius At least three seen well (perched views) on the Waldenoor Trail. A Brazilian endemic restricted to the Atlantic Forests of the south-east and carries the current IUCN Red List category of "Near Threatened". Rufous-breasted Hermit Glaucis hirsuta A frequent visitor to the feeders outside the lodge. Scale-throated Hermit Phaethornis eurynome Seen only at Macae de Cima. Another Atlantic Forests species restricted to south-east Brazil, north- east Argentina and eastern Paraguay. Swallow-tailed Hummingbird Eupetomena macroura Frequent at the feeders outside the lodge at REGUA and a few at Macae de Cima. Black Jacobin Florisuga fusca Another hummer seen well on the feeders at REGUA. Green-crowned Plovercrest Stephanoxis lalandi A female seen briefly at Macae de Cima was our first all-too-brief sighting. We need not have worried as superb views were obtained the following day on Pico do Caledonia. Stephanoxis lalandi and S. loddigesii were previously lumped as S. lalandi. Green-crowned Plovercrest is endemic to Brazil. Violet-capped Woodnymph Thalurania glaucopis Common and frequently seen, especially at the lodge feeders. White-throated Hummingbird Leucochloris albicollis Seen in the uplands of Macae de Cima and Pico do Caledonia. Glittering-throated Emerald Amazilia fimbriata Frequent on the lodge feeders. Glittering-bellied Emerald Chlorostilbon lucidus Seen at Sumidouro and near Caledonia. Brazilian Ruby Clytolaema rubricauda This endemic (restricted to the east of Brazil) was seen only in the highlands of Macae de Cima and Pico do Caledonia. Surucua Trogon Trogon surrucura Recorded on four dates at REGUA, Sumidouro and Macae de Cima. Black-throated Trogon Trogon rufus Seen on the Green Trail and Waldenoor Trail at REGUA. Green Kingfisher Chloroceryle americana One on the REGUA wetland. Amazon Kingfisher Chloroceryle amazona Seen on two dates on the REGUA wetland and a few from the bus as we crossed rivers. Ringed Kingfisher Megaceryle torquata Seen on five dates at REGUA and elsewhere as we travelled between sites. Rufous-capped Motmot Baryphthengus ruficapillus Heard on REGUA's 4x4 Trail but, as is so often the case with this frustrating species, we failed to see it there. One seen the last morning as we descended from the Waldenoor Trail was a nice surprise, but a shame most of the group were inside the vehicle! Another species restricted to Atlantic Forests of eastern Brazil, north-east Argentina and eastern Paraguay, so always nice to see (however briefly!). Saffron Toucanet Baillonius bailloni This Atlantic Forest endemic (known as "Aracari Banana" in Brazil) was seen well at Macae de Cima where it's not easy to find. Spot-billed Toucanet Selendera maculirostris Yet another species seen on this tour that's restricted to the Atlantic Forests. We saw two pairs in the company of the above species at Macae de Cima.



Channel-billed Toucan Ramphastos vitellinus Frequently encountered at REGUA throughout our stay there; often seen from the platform overlooking the wetland just outside the lodge. Toco Toucan Ramphastos toco Several seen on the way to Sumidouro. White-barred Piculet Picumnus cirratus Seen on five dates in REGUA, Sumidouro, Macae de Cima and Pico do Caledonia. Yellow-eared Woodpecker Veniliornis maculifrons Seen on three dates at REGUA and in the dry forests near Sumidouro too. A Brazilian endemic only found in the Atlantic Forests in the extreme south-eastern corner of the country. Yellow-throated Woodpecker Piculus flavigula Seen along the Green Trail and 4x4 Trail at REGUA. Green-barred Woodpecker Colaptes melanochloris One seen as we travelled to the Green Trail. Unfortunately it didn't hang around very long. Campo Flicker Colaptes campestris Seen on four dates and always in open country. Around REGUA we saw them while waiting for Giant Snipe to sing and also on the road to the Waldenoor Trail. The Carmo and Sumidouro area was good for this species as we travelled through dry, open pasture for most of the day. Blond-crested Woodpecker Celeus flavescens Single birds on two dates at REGUA. One at the foot of the Waldenoor Trail showed the best (just!). Lineated Woodpecker Drycopus lineatus One near the REGUA wetland and another through the 'scope, from the trail below Pico do Caledonia. Three-toed Jacamar Jacamaralcyon tridactyla This Brazilian endemic has undergone a major decline and is categorised as "Vulnerable" by BirdLife International. We were fortunate to see probably in the region of fifteen birds on our excursion to Carmo and Sumidouro. However this rare bird is restricted to what appears to be fragmented pockets of dry forest and habitat loss appears to be the main threat. Rufous-tailed Jacamar Galbula ruficauda Seen on two dates in REGUA and heard in the dry forests near Sumidouro. White-eared Puffbird Nystalus chacuru This open country puffbird was seen near Sumidouro where a group of three birds were observed. Crescent-chested Puffbird Malacoptila striata Another endemic and classified as "Near Threatened"; we saw a couple at the lower end of the Waldenoor Trail in REGUA. Pin-tailed Manakin Ilicura militaris A male seen on the Green Trail at REGUA and a female at Macae de Cima. A Brazilian endemic. White-bearded Manakin Manacus manacus Seen on three dates at REGUA. Blue Manakin Chiroxiphia caudata Heard more often than seen but we did obtain some very good views in the end. The Green Trail, 4x4 Trail and Waldenoor Trails at REGUA were good for this species (also known as Swallow-tailed Manakin), but it was also at Macae de Cima. Greenish Schiffornis Schiffornis virescens Heard on the way up Macae de Cima but not seen. Serra do Mar Tyrant-Manakin Neopelma chrysolophum One on the lower Caledonia trail. Endemic to Brazil. Chestnut-crowned Becard Pachyramphus castaneus Multiple sightings on trails at REGUA on two dates. White-winged Becard Pachyramphus polychopterus One in a bird flock on the Waldenoor Trail. Crested Becard Pachyramphus validus One along the Waldenoor Trail. Hooded Berryeater Carpornis cucullata This Brazilian endemic, only found in the Atlantic Forests, was seen at Macae de Cima. As usual it was very vocal at this site. Sharpbill Oxyruncus cristatus One showed very well at Macae de Cima. In fact it showed so well that Adelei had trouble dragging us away from it to see the bird flock passing through at the time! Bare-throated Bellbird Procnias nudicollis A "female-type" (possibly an immature male?) seen on the Waldenoor Trail. This species appears to be



silent in the hills at this time of year as no "clanging" was heard. This cotinga is restricted to the forests of eastern Brazil, northern Argentina and eastern Paraguay. Its main threats are habitat loss and trapping for the cage-bird trade. Black-and-Gold Cotinga Tijuca atra Only found in the uplands of Macae de Cima and Pico do Caledonia on our itinerary. Despite hearing males in song for most of the morning, we were unable to locate one at Macae de Cima. A brief view of a flying female was all we got there. It was a very different story at Pico do Caledonia the following day where we watched perched males in song and feeding females. At one time they were right above our vehicle in the canopy arching over the road. A great way to see your endemics! Grey-winged Cotinga Tijuca condita One seen at Pico do Caledonia chose the wrong moment to appear when a bank of cloud rolled up the mountain, completely obscuring the perch seconds after we located it! Although it appeared shortly after it was never in view for long and only "sang" once in a period of over an hour. Grey-winged occurs at higher elevations than Black-and-Gold Cotinga (although you can hear both from the site we saw the Grey-winged) and is restricted to the elfin-forest. Forest fires would appear to be the main threat to this rare endemic as it has a very restricted distribution. Planalto Tyrannulet Phyllomyias fasciatus Heard frequently in the uplands of Macae de Cima and Caledonia. Seen well at the latter site along the lower trail. Rough-legged Tyrannulet Phyllomyias burmeisteri Heard along the 4x4 Trail in REGUA and seen well along the Waldenoor Trail. Yellow-bellied Elaenia Elaenia flavogaster This elaenia favours more open, non-forested areas and was seen well as we waited for Giant Snipe near REGUA and heard near Sumidouro. Southern Beardless Tyrannulet Camptostoma obsoletum Seen at Sumidouro and heard at Cabo Frio. Yellow Tyrannulet Capsiempis flaveola Seen near the REGUA wetlands on two occasions. Southern Antpipit Corythopis delalandi Cracking views of a singing bird along the Green Trail at REGUA. Mottle-cheeked Tyrannulet Phylloscartes ventralis Frequently heard at the upland areas of Macae de Cima and Caledonia and seen at both sites. Ochre-bellied Flycatcher Mionectes oleagineus One seen on the Green Trail at REGUA. Grey-hooded Flycatcher Mionectes rufiventris Another Atlantic Forest species seen along the Green Trail. Sepia-capped Flycatcher Leptopogon amaurocephalus Seen on four dates at REGUA and Sumidouro. The distinctive wing-flicking habit (sometimes just one wing!) is a good feature of this genus. Bran-coloured Flycatcher Myiophobus fasciatus Heard in the more arid forests of Sumidouro and the Restinga of Cabo Frio, but not seen. Drab-breasted Pygmy Tyrant Hemitriccus diops Four of these Atlantic Forest endemics seen at Macae de Cima and heard along the lower trail near Caledonia the following day. Eye-ringed Tody-tyrant Hemmitriccus orbitatus Seen at REGUA on two dates. This noisy flycatcher is considered "Near Threatened" and is endemic to the forests of south-east Brazil. Hangnest Tody-tyrant Hemmitriccus nidipendulus Seen very well at Sumidouro and heard at Cabo Frio the following day. Restricted to south-east Brazil but found in a variety of habitats. Eared Pygmy-Tyrant Myiornis auricularis Seen on two dates in REGUA. Another species restricted to the Atlantic Forests but also occurs in Argentina and Paraguay. Ochre-faced Tody-flycatcher Poecilotriccus plumbeiceps Heard on the lower Caledonia trail but could not be encouraged into view. Grey-headed Tody-flycatcher Todirostrum poliocephalum This Brazilian endemic was one of the first birds to welcome us outside the lodge with its distinctive call. Recorded on four dates at REGUA and seen well. Common Tody-flycatcher Todirostrum cinereum Seen in the mangroves near Cabo Frio only.



Yellow-olive Flycatcher Tolmomyias sulphurescens Recorded on seven dates and seen well at REGUA and Caledonia. The "bzweep, bzweep" call became very familiar to us in the Atlantic Forests here. White-throated Spadebill Platyrinchus mystaceus One seen well on the Waldenoor Trail at REGUA. Whiskered Flycatcher Myiobius barbatus Seen on the 4x4 Trail and Waldenoor Trail at REGUA. Cliff Flycatcher Hirundinea ferruginea A few in the clearing at the top of Macae de Cima. Euler's Flycatcher Lathotriccus euleri Heard at Sumidouro and seen on the Brown Trail at REGUA. Fuscous Flycatcher Cnemotriccus fuscatus One at Cabo Frio. Blue-billed Black Tyrant Knipolegus cyanirostris A male at Macae de Cima and a pair the following day at Pico do Caledonia. Crested Black Tyrant Knipolegus lophotes Several on roadside perches as we drove to Sumidouro. Yellow-browed Tyrant Satrapa icterophrys At least two in the scrub-covered pasture where we saw the Giant Snipe near REGUA. Grey Monjita Xolmis cinereus One near Sumidouro. White-rumped Monjita Xolmis velatus Two on the same fence as the Grey Monjita! Streamer-tailed Tyrant Gubernetes yetapa A pair gave great views at the Giant Snipe site near REGUA only to be upstaged by a pair near Sumidouro that perched even closer! Masked Water Tyrant Fluvicola nengeta Seen easily on the REGUA wetlands. White-headed Marsh Tyrant Arundinicola leucocephala Seen at the REGUA wetlands and on ponds near Cabo Frio. Long-tailed Tyrant Colonia colonus Seen well at Sumidouro. Cattle Tyrant Machetornis rixosus Seen on two dates at REGUA. Piratic Flycatcher Legatus leucophaius Seen from the REGUA wetland. Social Flycatcher Myiozetetes similis Common at REGUA and other lowland sites; seen most days. Great Kiskadee Pitangus sulphuratus Common; seen ever day. Streaked Flycatcher Myiodynastes maculatus Seen on two dates at REGUA. Boat-billed Flycatcher Megarhynchus pitangua Recorded on six dates with a particularly noisy pair around the lodge clearing at REGUA. Variegated Flycatcher Empidonomus varius Seen in REGUA and near Carmo. Tropical Kingbird Tyrannus melancholicus Common and widespread in lowland areas. Brown-crested Flycatcher Myiarchus tyrannulus Seen at Sumidouro and Cabo Frio. Short-crested Flycatcher Myiarchus ferox Seen in REGUA and heard at Sumidouro. Grey-hooded Attila Attila rufus One seen well along the Green Trail at REGUA. Brazilian endemic restricted to the Atlantic Forests. Chestnut-backed Antshrike Thamnophilus palliatus Great views of a male on the REGUA wetland trails and also heard there. One heard at Sumidouro. Sooretama Slaty Antshrike Thamnophilus ambiguus A male seen well between the lodge and the wetland at REGUA and heard at Cabo Frio. The "slaty antshrike" complex has undergone a thorough taxonomic review in recent years with this form, restricted to the Atlantic Forest region, acquiring Brazilian endemic status.



Variable Antshrike Thamnophilus caerulescens Frequently heard in the uplands with a few seen at Macae de Cima and Pico do Caledonia. Rufous-capped Antshrike Thamnophilus ruficapillus Heard from the lower Caledonia trail but always distant. Spot-breasted Antvireo Dysithamnus stictothorax Heard on the Green Trail in REGUA and finally seen on the 4x4 Trail there a few days later. This species is restricted to eastern Brazil and north-eastern Argentina and listed as "Near Threatened" owing to the declining population in the degraded and disappearing habitat in which it resides. Rufous-backed Antvireo Dysithamnus xanthopterus Another Brazilian endemic restricted to highland Atlantic Forests like Macae de Cima where we saw it. Star-throated Antwren Myrmotherula gularis The Green Trail and the Waldenoor Trail at REGUA were good for this species and it was nice to see this Brazilian endemic there. White-flanked Antwren Myrmotherula axillaris This widespread Neotropical bird was seen on three dates in REGUA. Unicoloured Antwren Myrmotherula unicolor Two from the Green Trail in REGUA were our only sightings of this Brazilian endemic. Rufous-winged Antwren Herpsilochmus rufimarginatus Heard on most trails in REGUA but only really seen well from the 4x4 trail when we found them in a big mixed species flock there. Serra Antrwen Formicivora serrana This endemic was seen well at Sumidouro where we were able to compare the male and female plumages at leisure. Restinga Antwren Formicivora littoralis Easily found in the Restinga near Cabo Frio. Recent surveys have found this taxon's population to be in a healthier state than previously thought. However, continued degradation and removal of its habitat (coastal Restinga) for beach development, leaves this "endemic" (see below) in a rather perilous situation. NOTE: Recent taxonomic studies have revealed that this is not a valid taxon, but simply a population of Serra Antwren F. serrana. Bertoni's Antbird Drymophila rubricollis This species, restricted to the montane Atlantic Forests, performed well at Macae de Cima. Rufous-tailed Antbird Drymophila genei Another montane Drymophila antbird, this time an endemic to Brazil. We saw a couple after a bit of a struggle on Pico do Caledonia (near the Grey-winged Cotinga site). Ochre-rumped Antbird Drymophila ochropyga Another Brazilian endemic that, like many of the Drymophila here, loves the bamboo infested mountain slopes of the Atlantic Forest. We saw them well at Macae de Cima. Dusky-tailed Antbird Drymophila malura Seen well (eventually) on the lower Caledonia trail. Scaled Antbird Drymophila squamata The Atlantic Forests of REGUA are a great place to see this Brazilian endemic. We heard it on the Green Trail but it showed very well indeed on the 4x4 Trail a few days later. Streak-capped Antwren Terenura maculata This Atlantic Forest endemic loves the canopy of tall trees and can be very frustrating to see! Severe cases of "Neotropical Neck" were endured to finally clinch acceptable views on the Green Trail and 4x4 Trail at REGUA. White-shouldered Fire-eye Pyriglena leucoptera A distant bird heard on the Green Trail at REGUA. Rufous Gnateater Conopophaga lineata A pair showed exceptionally well at Sumidouro. Black-cheeked Gnateater Conopophaga melanops Another Brazilian endemic that is one of REGUA's specialties. We saw them at close quarters on the Green Trail and heard them on the 4x4 Trail too. Spotted Bamboowren Psilorhamphus guttatus We heard this species at Macae de Cima. It sang just the once so we failed to locate this Atlantic Forest endemic unfortunately. Slaty Bristlefront Merulaxis ater We heard this Brazilian endemic on just one occasion at Macae de Cima. Mouse-coloured Tapaculo Scytalopus speluncae Heard at Macae de Cima.



Rufous-tailed Atthrush Chamaeza ruficauda Heard at Macae de Cima. Band-tailed Hornero Furnarius figulus This Brazilian endemic is easily seen in non-forested areas around REGUA. Rufous Hornero Furnarius rufus Common in lowland open areas. Rufous-capped Spinetail Synallaxis ruficapillus Seen at Sumidouro and Macae de Cima. Also heard at Caledonia. Spix's Spinetail Synallaxis spixi Heard on the lower Caledonia trail. Pallid Spinetail Cranioleuca pallida This Brazilian endemic was common on Pico do Caledonia. Yellow-chinned Spinetail Certhiaxis cinnamomeus Common on the REGUA wetland. Rufous-fronted Thornbird Phacellodomus rufifrons Many at Sumidouro with their huge stick nests a feature of the area. Red-eyed Thornbird Phacellodomus erythopthalmus We saw this Brazilian endemic well along the lower Caledonia trail. Buff-browed Foliage-gleaner Syndactyla rufosuperciliata Seen well along the lower Caledonia trail. Ochre-breasted Foliage-gleaner Philydor lichtensteini A few sightings on the Green Trail and the 4x4 Trail in REGUA. Black-capped Foliage-gleaner Philydor atricapillus We saw this Atlantic Forests endemic well on the Green Trail in REGUA. Buff-fronted Foliage-gleaner Philydor rufum Seen on the 4x4 Trail and Waldenoor Trail in REGUA. Pale-browed Treehunter Cichlocolaptes leucophrus Seen well in REGUA (along the Green Trail) and in a bird flock at Macae de Cima. Another Brazilian endemic of the Atlantic Forests. White-eyed Foliage-gleaner Automolus leucopthalmus Great views of one on the Waldenoor Trail in REGUA. Sharp-tailed Streamcreeper Lochmias nematura One at Macae de Cima. Plain Xenops Xenops minutus Good views of one on the Green Trail in REGUA. Streaked Xenops Xenops rutilans Seen on the 4x4 Trail and Waldenoor Trail in REGUA. Plain-winged Woodcreeper Dendrocincla turdina The Green Trail and the 4x4 Trail in REGUA were good spots for this species. Note that some authorities now lump this with Plain-brown Woodcreeper D. fuliginosa. Olivaceous Woodcreeper Sittasomus griseicapillus This attractive woodcreeper, with bright buff plumage tones here in the Atlantic Forests (very different to the drab, grey-brown birds of the Amazon), was seen regularly in REGUA. Planalto Woodcreeper Dendrocolaptes platyrostris Heard at Mace de Cima. Lesser Woodcreeper Xiphorhynchus fuscus Seen daily on the REGUA trails. Scaled Woodcreeper Lepidocolaptes squamatus A very attractive Brazilian endemic that we saw at Sumidouro. Surely one of the most striking woodcreepers? Black-billed Scythebill Campylorhamphus falcularius Gave us the run around but finally seen at Macae de Cima. One of the region's most enigmatic birds. Rufous-browed Peppershrike Cyclarhis gujanensis Seen on the 4x4 Trail at REGUA, Macae de Cima and lower Caledonia trail. Red-eyed Vireo Vireo olivaceus Seen on the Green Trail and Waldenoor Trail in REGUA. Rufous-crowned Greenlet Hylophilus poicilotis A small flock at Macae de Cima. Lemon-chested Greenlet Hylophilus thoracicus Two seen on the wetland at REGUA and heard at Cabo Frio.



Grey-eyed Greenlet Hylophilus amaurocephalus We heard this Brazilian endemic at Sumidouro. Grey-breasted Martin Progne chalybea Seen on three dates around REGUA. Blue-and-white Swallow Pygochelidon cyanoleuca Seen near REGUA while looking for Giant Snipe and at the Waldenoor Trail. Common near Caledonia. White-thighed Swallow Neochelidon tibialis Several at the start of the Waldenoor Trail in REGUA. Southern Rough-winged Swallow Stelgidopteryx ruficollis Common and widespread; seen daily. Black-capped Donacobius Donacobius atricapilla Good views of these on the REGUA wetland fringes. Moustached Wren Pheugopedius genibarbis Seen around the clearing of the lodge at REGUA. Long-billed Wren Cantorchilus longirostris Seen from the REGUA wetland trail. Southern House Wren Troglodytes musculus Seen daily. Chalk-browed Mockingbird Mimus saturninus Recorded on five dates in cleared areas around REGUA and other open country areas. Rufous-bellied Thrush Turdus rufiventris One seen in Carmo as we drove to the Sumidouro Road. Pale-breasted Thrush Turdus leucomelas A few at REGUA, Sumidouro and Cabo Frio. White-necked Thrush Turdus albicollis Singles at REGUA on two dates. House Sparrow Passer domesticus Usually seen when we stopped at a garage! Common Waxbill Estrilda astrild Small numbers near wetlands at REGUA and Cabo Frio. Yellowish Pipit Anthus lutescens Heard at Cabo Frio. Tropical Parula Setophaga pitiayumi Seen on the Green Trail at REGUA. Also heard on the 4x4 Trail there too. Golden-crowned Warbler Basileuterus culicivorus Great views at Sumidouro, in the uplands of Macae de Cima and Caledonia and also along the Waldenoor Trail at REGUA. White-browed Warbler Basileuterus leucoblepharus Heard in the upland sites of Macae de Cima and Pico do Caledonia. Crested Oropendola Psarocolius decumanus A few at Macae de Cima. Red-rumped Cacique Cacicus haemorrhous Seen on the wetlands of REGUA. Campo Troupial Icterus jamacaii One above Carmo. Endemic to Brazil. Chopi Blackbird Gnorimopsar chopi Seen in open areas outside the REGUA reserve and along the Sumidouro Road. Chestnut-capped Blackbird Chrysomus ruficapillus Frequently seen around the REGUA wetland. Bananaquit Coereba flaveola Seen on five dates. Rufous-collared Sparrow Zonotrichus capensis Seen in the highlands of Macae de Cima and Caledonia. Grassland Sparrow Ammodramus humeralis One outside the reserve near REGUA as we waited for Giant Snipes to "sing". Uniform Finch Haplospiza unicolor Seen at Macae de Cima. Saffron Finch Sicalis flaveola Seen around the wetland at REGUA, at Sumidouro and on the lower slopes of Caledonia.



Wedge-tailed Grass Finch Emeberizoides herbicola Two seen just before the Giant Snipe show near REGUA. Blue-black Grassquit Volatinia jacarina Seen on six dates in open areas. Lined Seedeater Sporophila lineola Small numbers in open areas around REGUA. Double-collared Seedeater Sporophila caerulescens Seen along the roadside as we travelled to the Green Trail at REGUA. Sooty Grassquit Tiaris fuliginosus Seen well at Sumidouro. Bay-chested Warbling-finch Poospiza thoracica A Brazilian endemic of montane Atlantic Forests like Pico do Caledonia where we saw small flocks. Half-collared Sparrow Arremon semitorquatus Heard at the foot of Pico do Caledonia. Unfortunately this Brazilian endemic just would not reveal itself in the large, impenetrable stand of bamboo there. Red-cowled Cardinal Paroaria dominicara Seen in more open areas of REGUA and at Cabo Frio. Endemic to Brazil. Pileated Finch Coryphospingus pileatus Seen at Sumidouro. Cinnamon Tanager Schistochlamys ruficapillus One seen as we retreated downhill out of the storm at Macae de Cima. Diademed Tanager Stephanophorus diadematus Fairly common at the higher elevations of Pico do Caledonia. Hooded Tanager Nemosia pileata Seen in one of the few clearing along the Green Trail in REGUA. Olive-green Tanager Orthogonys chloricterus This Brazilian endemic left it late: one seen on our last morning in REGUA on the Waldenoor Trail. Black-goggled Tanager Trichothraupis melanops Seen on three dates in REGUA and near Caledonia. Flame-crested Tanager Tachyphonus cristatus A common component of the mixed species flocks on the REGUA trails. Ruby-crowned Tanager Tachyphonus coronatus One near Caledonia was our only record. Brazilian Tanager Ramphocelus bresilius Small numbers around REGUA on three dates. Sayaca Tanager Thraupis sayaca Seen on two dates at REGUA. Azure-shouldered Tanager Thraupis cyanoptera Another Atlantic Forest bird endemic to Brazil that we saw at Macae de Cima. Palm Tanager Thraupis palmarum Seen near Cabo Frio and in REGUA. Green-headed Tanager Tangara seledon Small flocks on the Green Trail and Waldenoor Trail in REGUA. An attractive Atlantic Forest inhabitant. Brassy-breasted Tanager Tangara desmaresti Small flocks seen in the upland sites of Macae de Cima and Pico do Caledonia. An endemic to Brazil found in foothills and mountains of the Atlantic Forests. Burnished-buff Tanager Tangara cayana A few pairs seen at Sumidouro and near Caledonia. Swallow Tanager Tersina viridis A few in REGUA and at Sumidouro. Black-legged Dacnis Dacnis nigripes At least six in the trees bordering the wetland of REGUA on our first morning there. A rare Brazilian endemic with fragmented populations in the Atlantic Forests that appears to be a fairly regular austral winter visitor to REGUA. Blue Dacnis Dacnis cayana Widespread and seen at most sites visited. Red-legged Honeycreeper Cyanerpes cyaneus Seen at REGUA around the wetland and heard in the Restinga at Cabo Frio. Green Honeycreeper Chlorophanes spiza One at the REGUA wetland.



Rufous-headed Tanager Hemithraupis ruficapilla An attractive endemic to south-eastern Brazil that we saw at Sumidouro, in REGUA and along the lower Caledonia trail. Yellow-backed Tanager Hemithraupis flavicollis Seen on three dates in REGUA. Chestnut-vented Conebill Conirostrum speciosum A few in the forested borders of the REGUA wetland and one in a mixed species flock on the Waldenoor Trail there. Red-crowned Ant Tanager Habia rubica A few pairs on the Waldenoor Trail in REGUA. Purple-throated Euphonia Euphonia chlorotica Regularly seen on the lodge feeders at REGUA. Violaceous Euphonia Euphonia violacea Another species fairly regular around the lodge garden at REGUA. Green-throated Euphonia Euphonia chalybea One at Macae de Cima. An Atlantic Forest species showing signs of declining population trends. Chestnut-bellied Euphonia Euphonia pectoralis Seen on the 4x4 Trail in REGUA and heard elsewhere. Mammals and Reptiles White-tufted Marmosets Callithrix jacchus were frequently seen around the lodge garden at REGUA, often coming to fruit at the feeders. Broad-snouted Caiman Caiman latirostris and Capybara Hydrochaeris hydrochaeris were seen on the REGUA wetland. On REGUA's 4x4 Trail we saw Guianan Squirrel Sciurus aestuans, Orange-spined Hairy Dwarf Porcupine Spiggurus villosus and a Green Vine Snake Oxybelis fulgidus in one morning.

Limosa Holidays Trip Report Brazil Bird Report... · Many at Sumidouro with their huge stick nests...

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Transcript of Limosa Holidays Trip Report Brazil Bird Report... · Many at Sumidouro with their huge stick nests...