Photos with this report (click to enlarge) | |||
 Grey-bellied Comet |
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Participants: Andy & Melissa Banthorpe.
Kraig & Kathy Kemper.
Bob Kuntz.
Ian McGregor.
Leader: Colin Bushell of TOUCAN BIRDING TOURS www.toucantours.co.uk
This was a comprehensive birding tour of Northern Peru originally offered only as a scheduled Maranon Tour (birding sites on the Chiclayo – Cajamarca route), but extended to include the Tumbes Reserved Zone as a pre-tour extension. It was a real success with most of the target birds seen well and over 35 Peruvian endemic species recorded.
We all met in what is now becoming the “Birder’s Rest” – the Hotel Manhattan Inn in the district of Callao. Andy and Melissa arrived a day early and opted for a day excursion along the coast visiting Villa Marshes and Pucusana where the highlights were a selection of Humboldt Current seabirds and the endemic Peruvian Seaside Cinclodes. Bob, Kathy and Kraig were the final arrivals from Seattle late on 1st October.
The Tumbes extension started well despite a lengthy travel day thanks to inconvenient LAN Peru connection times. We flew to Piura and then drove to Tumbes before checking into the hotel and heading straight out to the mangroves at El Algorrobo. The rest of the week was spent in camp in the Tumbes Reserved Zone with its dry forests in the El Caucho and Quebrada Faical area before returning to Tumbes on 6 October. Highlights included Pallid Dove and Lemon-rumped Tanager (handful of Peruvian records of each) as well as cracking views of Grey-backed Hawks, West Peruvian Screech-Owl, Pacific Royal Flycatcher and Watkin’s Antpitta. We spent a fantastic morning in the Puerto Pizzaro area on 7 October before driving to Chiclayo to begin our tour of the Northern Peru Circuit into the Maranon Valley and out to Abra Patricia.
Having seen many of the Tumbesian specialities already I decided to give Batan Grande a miss and head out to Rafan. We quickly collected the desired birds here (Peruvian Plantcutter and Rufous Flycatcher) before moving on to the El Tocto track, finishing our day at the El Limon Guan Canyons in our camp. Bird highlights included Tumbes Tyrant, Necklaced Spinetail, Tumbes Sparrow and Sulphur-throated Finch. We had worked very hard for the latter species in difficult conditions indeed. Lino Rico was as efficient and pleasant to work with as ever the following day, finding the White-winged Guans in record time. The Guan Canyons are always a pleasure to birdwatch in and Lino had located some Striped Owls at roost for us.
October 10 found us at Abra Porculla early morning. In rather unpleasant conditions we found the birds to be very active around our breakfast spot near the pass. Rufous-necked Foliage-gleaner, Elegant Crescent-chest and Black-cowled Saltator were all logged before moving off in search of the main quarry here: Piura Chat-Tyrant. Other interesting species here included Northern Line-cheeked Spinetail, Chapman’s Antshrike, Bay-headed Brush-finch (well done Andy – worked hard to get everyone on that one!) and Henna-hooded Foliage-gleaner. This site continues to produce the goods despite almost total deforestation!
We spent the rest of the day travelling to Jaen where we stopped just outside town in the Chamaya Valley for Little Inca-Finch and Collared Antshrike of the shumbae race (due to be split soon as a full species distinct from those in “coastal” Peru).
October 11 found us in the land of the Maranon endemics, birding a patch of forest and scrub in the Tamborapa area. Maranon and Chinchipe Spinetails, Northern Slaty-Antshrike and Sooty-crowned Flycatcher were important birds here and a flyover of 11 Military Macaws was most welcome. Having only heard Maranon Crescent-chest at Tamborapa we were relieved to see one at a desert site en route to Pomacochas later that afternoon. We had absolutely mind-blowing views of this ornate tapaculo in a ditch in the midday heat before moving on into the Utcubamba Valley.
“Spatuletail Day!” We had the luxury of a breakfast in the hotel at Pomacochas on the morning of 12th because of a short journey time to the outskirts of town. Moments later we were watching a male Marvellous Spatuletail on a hillside with a nice patch of Romero (the Spatuletail’s food-plant) just above a cloud forest fragment. The rest of the day was spent in the Abra Patricia area and over the next three days we returned to this famous birding site with its rare Peruvian endemics and supporting cast of range-restricted species. We birded from the subtropical zone near the pass down to the upper tropical zone at Aguas Verdes. Notable birds seen here included Yellow-scarfed Tanager, Rusty-breasted and Rusty-tinged Antpittas, Grey-breasted Mountain-Toucans, Cinnamon Screech-Owl, Royal Sunangel, Bar-winged Wood-Wren, Blue-browed Tanager, White-capped Tanager, Lulu’s Tody-Tyrant, Sharpe’s Wren and Ecuadorian Tyrannulet to name a few.
October 16 saw us leaving Pomacochas for Leimebamba. This usually arduous journey was made a little more pleasant by a welcome stop at a day-roost site for a pair of Koepcke’s Screech-Owls located on one of our previous trips. From our base at Leimebamba we travelled up to Abra Barro Negro where we found a variety of cloud forest species “hanging on in there” in the fragmented habitats. Russet-mantled Softtails finally gave themselves up on the final morning thanks to a dawn start but other attractions included Coppery-naped Puffleg, Sword-billed Hummingbird, Purple-throated Sunangel and Buff-breasted Mountain-Tanager in the cloud forests. The paramo was not without merit producing Coppery Metaltail and White-chinned Thistletail before we crossed the pass and into the Maranon Canyon. Descending into the deep valley we found Chestnut-backed Thornbird and Buff-bridled Inca-Finch easily before reaching our camp at Balsas.
The final chapter of our journey through Northern Peru began with our exit from the Maranon Valley. Climbing out of the canyon we saw Yellow-faced Parrotlets and then Grey-winged Inca-Finch before reaching the lip of the canyon overlooking Celendin. We added Rufous Antpitta of the cajamarcae race, White-tailed Shrike-Tyrant, Striated Earthcreeper, Many-striped Canastero and surprisingly Plain-tailed Warbling-Finch to our tally the following day as we progressed to Cajamarca where the Inca Atahualpa met his death at the hands of the Conquistadors.
Cajamarca was our base for our excursions to San Marcos for Great Spinetail and the Rio Chonta Valley for Grey-bellied Comet. The following day we set off for Lima and said goodbye to our support team with one last “field breakfast” of pancakes at the airport! On arrival Kraig, Bob and Ian headed out to Villa Marshes for some final birding in Peru while the rest of us headed for the a hotel prior to our flights back to Europe.
Acknowledgements: Sincere thanks to our drivers and cooks for the tour. Ramiro Abendano, Fortunato Pillco, Guillermo Castillo, Hilmar Medina and Raul Cobos (Tumbes only). Special gratitude to Kathy, Kraig, Melissa, Andy, Bob and Ian who made this North Peru tour a most enjoyable and successful one.
Itinerary (all dates October 2005).
1st Arrival in Lima, Peru. Overnight Callao.
2nd Fly Lima – Piura. Private transport to Tumbes. Check-in and birding in the mangroves of El Algorrobo. Overnight in city of Tumbes.
3rd Tumbes National Forest. Birding at “Mirador” (340m), El Caucho (420m) and Quebrada Faical (420m). PM birding above Faical to 450m. Campsite at El Caucho.
4th El Caucho – Pozo del Pato (620m). Overnight in camp at El Caucho.
5th El Caucho (460m).
6th El Caucho (460m). PM return to Tumbes. Overnight in hotel in Tumbes.
7th Mangroves at Puerto Pizzaro early morning before departure to Chiclayo. Overnight Chiclayo.
8th Chiclayo – Rafan for dawn . Lunch at El Tocto (115m) and then to El Limon (300m). Overnight in camp.
9th El Limon “Guan Canyons” early morning arriving at El Tocto for lunch. Overnight in Olmos.
10th Abra Porculla (1700m) all morning. Drive to Jaen birding the Chamaya Valley (750m) en route. Overnight Jaen.
11th Tamborapa (800m) early morning. Lunch in desert along Route 101 at KM 215 (450m). Birding near Pedro Ruiz en route to Pomacochas KM 316 (2040 – 2185m). Overnight Puerto Pumas, Pomacochas.
12th Pomacochas first thing for Spatuletail (2400m) then on to Abra Patricia (2185m). Garcia Ridge area (1880m) early afternoon, returning to Pomacochas because of heavy rain at Patricia to bird Lago Pomacochas (2185m).
13th Garcia Ridge trail (1900m). Abra Patricia Road KM 378 – 380 (1770m – 1670m) then to Alta Nieva (1950m) for lunch. Afternoon birding from Puente San Antonio to pass (2040m – 2185m).
14th KM 362 Trail below Abra Patricia (2160m – 2100m). Garcia (1880m). KM 366 (2160m).
15th Garcia (1880m) then down to Afluente KM 390 (1400m – 1350m). Aguas Verdes (1000m). KM 380 (1620m).
16th Pomacochas – Leimebamba birding the Utcubamba Valley en route (1400m – 1600m). Overnight Leimebamba.
17th Abra Barro Negro (2700m – 3000m). Overnight Leimebamba.
18th Abra Barro Negro (2800m – 3000m) cloud forest birding. Paramo (3160m – 3250m) before dropping into the Maranon Canyon birding between 1670m and 900m at Balsas. Overnight in camp at Balsas.
19th Balsas – Celendin. Birding above Balsas to KM 160 (900m – 920m). Hacienda Limon (1990m) arriving at Celendin (2800m) late afternoon.
20th Celendin – Cajamarca birding Paramo near Cruz Conga to Abra Gran Chimu (3160m – 3500m). Lunch near some montane scrub (3330m) before moving on to Encanada (3000m). Overnight Cajamarca.
21st Cajamarca – Huayobamba near San Marcos (2525m – 2280m). Lunch and PM birding at Rio Chonta (2600m). Overnight Cajamarca.
22nd Fly Cajamarca – Lima.
TINAMOUS Tinamidae
Pale-browed Tinamou Crypturellus transfasciatus
Heard on three dates in the Tumbes Reserved Zone.
Tataupa Tinamou Crypturellus tataupa
Heard at Tamborapa 11th.
GREBES Podicipedidae
Pied-billed Grebe Podilymbus podiceps
One seen on pools between Piura and Tumbes 2nd.
Great Grebe Podiceps major
At least one seen briefly between Piura and Tumbes from the moving bus 2nd. Unfortunately there were no convenient places in which to stop and study this bird.
PELICANS Pelicanidae
Brown Pelican Pelecanus occidentalis
Hundreds in the mangrove areas of Puerto Pizzaro on 7th.
Peruvian Pelican Pelecanus thagus
Seen along the coast at Mancora between Tumbes and Piura 7th.
BOOBIES Sulidae
Peruvian Booby Sula variegata
Seen in large numbers along the coast between Piura and Tumbes 2nd and 7th, especially at Mancora.
CORMORANTS Phalacrocoracidae
Neotropic Cormorant Phalacrocorax brasilianus
Along the coast between Piura and Tumbes.
FRIGATEBIRDS Fregatidae
Magnificent Frigatebird Fregata magnificens
Large numbers of this piratic species seen along the coast 2nd and 7th.
HERONS Ardeidae
White-necked (Cocoi) Heron Ardea cocoi
Small numbers in the mangroves and along the coast near Tumbes 2nd and 7th. Up to 3 at Lago Pomacochas on two dates.
Great Egret Ardea alba
Large numbers recorded on nine dates throughout the tour.
Tricolored Heron Egretta tricolor
Small numbers in the mangroves near Tumbes on two dates.
Little Blue Heron Egretta caerulea
Seen in and around Tumbes on two dates.
Snowy Egret Egretta thula
Seen on two dates in Tumbes and a single on the Rio Chonta 21st.
Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis
Common; seen on 14 dates.
Striated Heron Butorides striatus
Seen on four dates in Tumbes, the Utcubamba Valley and near Jaen.
Yellow-crowned Night-Heron Nyctanassa violacea
Up to 10 birds in the mangroves at El Algorrobo and Puerto Pizzaro.
Black-crowned Night-Heron Nycticorax nycticorax
Seen at Puerto Pizzaro 7th.
Fasciated Tiger-Heron Tigrisoma fasciatum
Two birds in the Utcubamba Valley 16th.
IBIS & SPOONBILLS Threskiornithidae
White Ibis Eudocimus albus
Small numbers in the Tumbes mangroves on two dates.
Puna Ibis Plegadis ridgwayi
Singles in the fields surrounding Lago Pomacochas on two dates.
Roseate Spoonbill Ajaia ajaja
Three in the mangroves at Puerto Pizzaro.
DUCKS & GEESE Anatidae
Torrent Duck Merganetta armata
A single female near Abra Patricia on 14th and a male in the Utcubamba Valley 16th.
Speckled Teal Anas flavirostris
A flighty pair at Cruz Conga 20th.
White-cheeked Pintail Anas bahamensis
Two birds on Lago Pomacochas 16th.
NEW WORLD VULTURES Cathartidae
Black Vulture Coragyps atratus
Common, seen most days.
Turkey Vulture Cathartes aura
Common seen most days.
Greater Yellow-headed Vulture Cathartes melambrotus
Two near Aguas Verdes.
King Vulture Sarcoramphus papa
Recorded on four dates in Tumbes. Daily max. 3.
HAWKS & EAGLES Accipitridae
Pearl Kite Gampsonyx swainsonii
One near El Limon 9th.
Plain-breasted Hawk Accipiter ventralis
Seen on two dates at Pomacochas and Abra Patricia.
Crane Hawk Geranospizacaerulescens
Single in Tumbes 4th.
Grey-backed Hawk Leucopternis occidentalis
Seen in Tumbes on 3 dates. Daily max. 2.
Savanna Hawk Buteogallus meridionalis
One seen between Tumbes and Chiclayo 7th.
Harris’ (Bay-winged) Hawk Parabuteo unicinctus
Two dates in Tumbes. Daily max 2.
Black-chested Buzzard-Eagle Geranoaetus melanoleucus
One in the Guan Canyons 9th and singles on two dates in the Maranon Canyon between Balsas and Celendin.
Roadside Hawk Buteo magnirostris
Small numbers in the Abra Patricia area on four dates.
Short-tailed Hawk Buteo brachyurus
Seen on two dates in Tumbes and one near Celendin 18th.
Variable Hawk Buteo polyosoma
Seen at Abra Porculla, Abra Barro Negro, Celendin and Cajamarca area. Max. 4 near Abra Barro Negro (the “Puna Hawk” form).
White-tailed Hawk Buteo albicaudatus
Seen on two dates during journeys from Piura to Tumbes and returning to Chiclayo. Daily max. 2.
Black Hawk-Eagle Spizaetus tyrannus
A single bird in the Tumbes Reserved Zone 4th.
FALCONS Falconidae
Mountain Caracara Phalcoboenus megalopterus
Recorded on two dates in the Abra Barro Negro area and near Cajamarca. Daily max. 2 birds.
Crested Caracara Caracara cheriway
Up to six birds in a day seen in the arid country of Tumbes and around Olmos at the start of he “Maranon Circuit”. Split from Southern Caracara C. plancus.
Laughing Falcon Herpetotheres cachinnans
Single bird on two dates in Tumbes.
American Kestrel Falco sparverius
Widespread but not particularly numerous throughout the tour.
Aplomado Falcon Falco femoralis
Seen on two dates: single near Olmos 9th and two the following day near Abra Porculla.
Bat Falcon Falco rufigularis
One at Afluente 15th.
Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus
Single near Cajamarca 20th.
GUANS, CURASSOWS & ALLIES Cracidae
Speckled Chachalaca Ortalis guttata
One at Aguas Verdes 15th.
Andean Guan Penelope montagnii
One at Abra Barro Negro 18th.
White-winged Guan Penelope albipennis
Endemic to Peru. A pair seen well at dawn in the “Guan Canyons” of El Limon. Watching these rare Cracids clambering on the larger limbs of bromeliad-clad trees on the banks of the canyons has to be one of the highlights of any tour to this part of Peru. Critically endangered.
Crested Guan Penelope purpulescens
Heard in the Tumbes Reserved Zone.
RAILS Rallidae
Rufous-necked Wood-Rail Aramides axillaris
Fantastic views in the mangroves of two birds at Puerto Pizzaro on 7th.
Plumbeous Rail Pardirallus sanguinolentus
Seen at the edge of the reedbeds at Lago Pomacochas on two dates. Max. 3 birds.
Common Moorhen Gallinula chloropus
Half-a-dozen or so seen at Lago Pomacochas on two dates.
Wattled Jacana Jacana jacana
Seen on two dates in Tumbes.
OYSTERCATCHERS Haematopodidae
American Oystercatcher Haematopus palliatus
Four seen 7th at Puerto Pizzaro.
STILTS & AVOCETS Recurvirostridae
Black-necked Stilt Himantopus mexicanus
Seen on roadside pools during our journeys to and from Tumbes. Max. 6 birds.
PLOVERS Charadriidae
Andean Lapwing Vanellus resplendens
Max. 5 Lago Pomacochas 12th and then small numbers around Abra Barro Negro, Celendin and Cajamarca at the end of the tour.
Black-bellied (Grey) Plover Pluvalis squatarola
Single Puerto Pizzaro 7th.
Semipalmated Plover Charadrius semipalmatus
8 Puerto Pizzaro 7th.
Wilson’s Plover Charadrius wilsonia
4 Puerto Pizzaro 7th.
Killdeer Charadrius vociferus
Small numbers seen in Tumbes.
SANDPIPERS & ALLIES Scolopacidae
Andean Snipe Gallinago jamesoni
Heard before daybreak at Abra Barro Negro 18th.
Willet Catoptrophorus semipalmatus
Five in the mangroves of Puerto Pizzaro on 7th.
Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus
Good numbers of the form hudsonicus in the mangroves of El Algorrobo and Puerto Pizzaro in Tumbes.
Lesser Yellowlegs Tringa flavipes
Up to 8 in the mangroves of Tumbes on two dates.
Solitary Sandpiper Tringa solitaria
A single seen at El Algorrobo on 2nd.
Spotted Sandpiper Actitis macularia
Common in the Tumbes mangroves and fast running waters such as the Rio Utcubamba and Rio Chonta back on the “Maranon Circuit”.
GULLS Laridae
Andean Gull Larus serranus
Small numbers on Lago Pomacochas and around Abra Barro Negro. A flock of about 15 seen as we approached Cajamarca on 20th.
TERNS Sternidae
Royal Tern Sterna maxima
Two in the Puerto Pizzaro Mangroves on 7th.
PIGEONS & DOVES Columbidae
Band-tailed Pigeon Columba fasciata
Recorded on six dates, mostly in mid to high elevations.
Peruvian Pigeon Columba oenops
Seen on 18th and 19th at the reliable site near Balsas in the Maranon Valley. Max. 12 birds. Considered “Vulnerable” in the Red Date Book of Threatened Birds of the Americas.
Plumbeous Pigeon Columba plumbea
Heard at Abra Patricia.
Eared Dove Zenaida auriculata
Quite widespread and locally numerous in Tumbes, near Olmos and between Celendin and Cajamarca.
Pacific (West Peruvian) Dove Zenaida meloda
Common Tumbes and from Rafan to Olmos on the “Maranon Circuit”.
Ecuadorian Ground-Dove Columbina buckleyi
Seen most days in Tumbes.
Croaking Ground-Dove Columbina cruziana
Common in Tumbes and the coastal section of the “Maranon Circuit” from Chiclayo to Jaen. Reappeared near Cajamarca.
Blue Ground-Dove Claravis pretiosa
Two females seen at Tamborapa on 11th. a
Bare-faced Ground-Dove Metriopelia ceciliae
6 in the canyon above Balsas on 19th.
White-tipped Dove Leptotila verreauxi
Common and widespread; seen most days on the tour.
Pallid Dove Leptotila pallida
One seen at Quebrada Faical on 4th is one of only a handfull of records for Peru.
PARROTS Psittacidae
Military Macaw Ara militaris
Eleven seen at Tamborapa on 11th. Considered “Vulnerable” in the Red Date Book of Threatened Birds of the Americas.
Scarlet-fronted Parakeet Aratinga wagleri
Recorded on seven dates. Very common near Leimebamba.
Red-masked Parakeet Aratinga erythrogenys
This “Tumbesian Endemic” was common in Tumbes but the largest flocks were seen in the El Limon area with congregations of more than 70 birds noted.
White-eyed Parakeet Aratinga leucophthalmus
Seen in small numbers in the Abra Patricia area.
Pacific Parrotlet Forpus coelestis
Recorded on 8 dates in Tumbes and between Chiclayo and Jaen.
Yellow-faced Parrotlet Forpus xanthops
Endemic to Peru. The large flock that was present in August and September near Balsas (c. 30 birds seen on two previous Toucan Birding Tours here) was nowhere to be seen on 19th when we found only 2 birds. Considered “Vulnerable”.
Grey-cheeked Parakeet Brotogeris pyrrhopterus
Seen on four dates in Tumbes. Daily max. 15 birds. Another “Tumbesian Endemic”.
Spot-winged Parrotlet Touit stictoptera
A flock of 15 – 20 birds calling as they flew over at Abra Patricia on 15th. Classified as “Vulnerable”.
Speckle-faced Parrot Pionus tumultuosus
Great views of 6 birds at Abra Barro Negro on 18th where we heard them the previous day.
Bronze-winged Parrot Pionus chalcopterus
Poor views of a single bird in Tumbes on 5th.
Scaly-naped Parrot Amazona mercenaria
4 seen at Abra Patricia on 14th.
CUCKOOS, ANIS & HOATZINS Cuculidae
Squirrel Cuckoo Piaya cayana
Several sightings during the tour, the most we saw in a day was 3 in the Afluente region on 15th.
Groove-billed Ani Crotophaga sulcirostris
Common in arid regions throughout the tour.
Striped Cuckoo Tapera naevia
One in the Chamaya Valley on 10th was the first followed by a sries of birds on 18th – 21st in the Balsas – Cajamarca area.
BARN OWLS Tytonidae
Barn Owl Tyto alba
One on 12th over grazing land near Lago Pomacochas.
TYPICAL OWLS Strigidae
West Peruvian Screech-Owl Megascops roboratus
A fine view of a bird of the race pacificus attracted to playback in Tumbes on 4th.
Koepcke’s Screech-Owl Megascops koepckeae
Two at a daytime roost in the Utcubamba Valley first discovered on a Toucan Birding Tour in August 2005. A most welcome addition to everybody’s list.
Cinnamon Screech-Owl Megascops petersoni
One seen extremely well at Garcia Ridge on 13th.
Rufous-banded Owl Ciccaba albitarsus
One calling at Abra Barro Negro that had been so co-operative in August wasn’t on 18th!
Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl Glaucidium brasilianum
Heard at Afluente on 15th.
Peruvian Pygmy-Owl Glaucidium peruanum
Recorded on five dates. One showed particularly well in Tumbes on 4th.
Burrowing Owl Athene cunicularia
THE day for these was 8th. Travelling from Rafan to El Tocto and on to El Limon we saw no less than 14 individuals.
Spectacled Owl Pulsatrix perspicillata
Heard 5th and 6th near our camp at El Caucho.
Striped Owl Pseudoscops clamator
Excellent studies of 5 birds at a roost in the El Limon “Guan Canyons” on 9th. A nice Peru tick birthday present for the leader.
POTOOS Nyctibiidae
Common Potoo Nyctibius griseus
One heard near Garcia Ridge on 13th.
NIGHTHAWKS & NIGHTJARS Caprimulgidae
Lesser Nighthawk Chordeiles acutipennis
Numerous in Tumbes and a couple seen at Rafan early on 8th.
Pauraque Nyctidromus albicollis
Heard El Limon on 9th.
Band-winged Nightjar Caprimulgus longirostris
Seen near Abra Barro Negro early in the mornings of 18th and 19th.
Scrub Nightjar Caprimulgus anthonyi
One at dusk near El Tocto on 10th.
Swallow-tailed Nightjar Uropsalis segmentata
Heard pre-dawn at Abra Barro Negro on 18th.
SWIFTS Apodidae
Chestnut-collared Swift Streptoprocne rutila
Small numbers on three dates in the Abra Patricia area (mainly Garcia Ridge).
White-collared Swift Streptoprocne rutila
Widespread in small numbers. Max. 40+ near Abra Patricia on 11th.
Tumbes Swift Chaetura ocypetes
3 in the “Guan Canyons” at El Limon on 9th.
White-tipped Swift Aeronautes montivagus
Small numbers in the Gracia Ridge area and Utcubamba Valley.
HUMMINGBIRDS Trochilidae
Green Hermit Phaethornis guy
Heard at a traditional “lek” site near Aguas Verdes on 15th, but however much we tried we could not locate one!
Hermit sp. Phaethornis sp.
A “large hermit with possibly a decurved bill” above Afluente remained unidentified for cetainty.
Grey-chinned Hermit Phaethornis griseogularis
Single birds in Tumbes on 5th and one of the race porcullae at Abra Porculla on 10th.
Blue-fronted Lancebill Doryfera johannae
One seen near Abra Patricia on 12th.
Green Violetear Colibri thalassinus
One near Pomacochas on 15th was the only record.
Sparkling Violetear Colibri coruscans
Seen at Abra Porculla on 10th.
Spot-throated Hummingbird Leucippus taczanowskii
Endemic to Peru. Recorded on six dates around El Limon and then from the Maranon Canyon through to the end of the tour at Cajamarca.
White-bellied Hummingbird Amazilia chionogaster
Seen on four dates in the Pomacochas area.
Amazilia Hummingbird Amazilia amazilia
Common at the start of the tour in Tumbes right through to Jaen. Absent from the “centre section” (Abra Patricia and Utcubamba Valley), reappearing near Balsas and Cajamarca.
Andean Emerald Agyrtria franciae
Two seen on 19th between Balsas and Celendin.
White-vented Plumeleteer Chalybura buffonii
One in Tumbes Reserved Zone on 3rd.
Speckled Hummingbird Adelomyia melanogenys
Two seen on three dates in the Abra Patricia area.
Chestnut-breasted Coronet Boissonneaua matthewsii
Two at Garcia on 14th.
Shining Sunbeam Aglaeactis cupripennis
Seen in good numbers around Abra Barro Negro and Celendin.
Bronzy Inca Coeligena coeligena
Single record from Abra Patricia on 13th.
Collared Inca Coeligena torquata
Seen on consecutive days in the Abra Patricia area near the pass.
Violet-throated Starfrontlet Coeligena violifer
Seen at Abra Barro Negro on 17th and 18th at favoured sites.
Rainbow Starfrontlet Coeligena iris
Seen on two dates (daily max. 4 birds) at Abra Barro Negro.
Sword-billed Hummingbird Ensifera ensifera
A favoured site from two previous tours produced the goods once again at Abra Barro Negro on two consecutive mornings. Another bird seen a little higher up near the pass as well on one day.
Great Sapphirewing Pterophanes cyanopterus
Two records of this impressive bird; one at Abra Barro Negro and another near Cruz Conga (en route to Cajamarca). Both birds frequented Paramo scrub.
Giant Hummingbird Patagona gigas
One record for the trip on 10th.
Amethyst-throated Sunangel Heliangelus amethysticollis
Two on 18th at Abra Barro Negro were the only records.
Purple-throated Sunangel Heliangelus viola
One at Abra Barro Negro on 18th.
Royal Sunangel Heliangelus regalis
Endemic to Peru. Single male on 12th and 15th at Garcia “Sunangel” Ridge near Abra Patricia.
Emerald-bellied Puffleg Eriocnemis alinae
Seen on three consecutive days in the Abra Patricia area between the pass and Garcia.
Sapphire-vented Puffleg Eriocnemis luciani
Birds seen at Abra Barro Negro on two consecutive days were of the subspecies sapphiropygia. Clements splits this as “Coppery-naped Puffleg” in “Birds of Peru” but the decision is still pending according to the South American Classification Committee.
Booted Racket-tail Ocreatus underwoodii
Three in the Garcia Ridge – Afluente area below Abra Patricia on 15th.
Black-tailed Trainbearer Lesbia victoriae
Widespread if not numerous – recorded on five dates.
Green-tailed Trainbearer Lesbia nuna
Recorded on two dates.
Coppery Metaltail Metallura theresiae
Endemic to Peru. One or two birds in paramo scrub at Abra Barro Negro on 18th.
Tyrian Metaltail Metallura tyrianthina
Recorded on four dates near Abra Barro Negro and Celendin – Cajamarca road.
Black Metaltail Metallura phoebe
Endemic to Peru. Two birds at Encanada near Cajamarca on 20th.
Grey-bellied Comet Taphrolesbia griseiventris
Endemic to Peru. This “Endangered” species was seen in the usual spot along the Rio Chonta Valley on 21st.
Long-tailed Sylph Aglaiocercus kingi
Single birds on consecutive dates at Abra Patricia. Marvelous Spatuletail Loddigesia mirabilis
Endemic to Peru. A female on 11th seen between Pedro Ruiz and Pomacochas and a superb male on a hillside above Pomacochas. Surely bird of the tour! “Endangered”.
Long-billed Starthroat Heliomaster longirostris
Seen in small numbers daily in Tumbes.
Purple-collared Woodstar Myrtis fanny
Seen on six dates throughout the tour.
Short-tailed Woodstar Myrmia micrura
Two seen well at Puerto Pizzaro on 7th.
White-bellied Woodstar Chaetocercus mulsant
One on 15th in the Abra Patricia area.
Peruvian Sheartail Thaumastura cora
A male on 8th at Rafan.
TROGONS & QUETZALS Trogonidae
Masked Trogon Trogon personatus
Two at Abra Patricia on 14th.
Ecuadorian Trogon Trogon mesurus
Two seen in Tumbes on 4th and 6th.
Black-tailed Trogon Trogon melanurus
A male seen at Aguas Verdes on 15th.
Northern Violaceous Trogon Trogon caligatus
Seen on two dates in Tumbes at the southern edge of its distribution.
Crested Quetzal Pharomachrus antisianus
One seen Garcia Ridge 13th and heard nearby on 15th.
KINGFISHERS Alecedinidae
Ringed Kingfisher Ceryle torquata
Seen in Tumbes: 3 on 2nd and 4 on 7th. One on 16th in the Utcubamba Valley was the only other record.
Green Kingfisher Chloroceryle americana
Female seen on 3rd and 7th in Tumbes.
MOTMOTS Momotidae
Blue-crowned Motmot Momotus momota
Up to two birds seen on three dates in Tumbes.
PUFFBIRDS & NUNBIRDS Bucconidae
White-faced Nunbird Hapaloptila castanea
Heard at dawn at Garcia Ridge on 13th.
BARBETS Capitonidae
Gilded Barbet Capito auratus
Heard on 15th at Aguas Verdes.
Versicolored Barbet Eubucco versicolor
A pair on 13th around KM 380 on the Abra Patricia road and another pair at Afluente on 15th.
TOUCANS & ARACARIS Ramphastidae
Emerald Toucanet Aulacorhynchus prasinus
Seen in the Pomacochas and Abra Patricia areas on 12th and 2 on 13th.
Chestnut-eared Aracari Pteroglossus castanotis
Heard at Aguas Verdes on 15th.
Grey-breasted Mountain-Toucan Andigena hypoglauca
Four seen on 12th at Abra Patricia and heard in the same area the next day. One at Abra Barro Negro on 18th.
Black-mandibled Toucan Ramphastos ambiguus
Two calling distantly at Afluente on 15th just would not come into view no matter how hard we looked!
WOODPECKERS & PICULETS Picidae
Lafresnaye's Piculet Picumnus lafresnayi
Heard at Aguas Verdes 15th.
Ecuadorian Piculet Picumnus sclateri
Regularly seen in Tumbes and heard at El Limon on 9th.
Speckle-chested Piculet Picumnus steindachneri
Endemic to Peru. Seen in the Abra Patricia area on 15th.
Yellow-tufted Woodpecker Melanerpes cruentatus
Heard at Aguas Verdes on 15th.
Scarlet-backed Woodpecker Veniliornis callonotus
Regularly encountered in the Tumbes Nationa Forest, El Tocto and El Limon.
Smoky-brown Woodpecker Veniliornis fumigatus
Only one seen – on 13th at Abra Patricia. Others heard there.
Golden-olive Woodpecker Piculus rubiginosus
One of the dark-throated rubripileus race (a potential confusion with Black-necked Woodpecker) seen well at El Limon on 9th.
Crimson-mantled Woodpecker Piculus rivolii
One seen at Abra Barro Negro on 17th.
Black-necked Woodpecker Colaptes atricollis
Endemic to Peru. Four seen in the Utcubamba Valley on 16th, a single in the Maranon Canyon on 19th and 2 at San Marcos on 21st.
Andean Flicker Colaptes rupicola
Common from Abra Barro Negro until the end of the tour at Cajamarca.
Lineated Woodpecker Dryocopus lineatus
Located every day in Tumbes but heard only near Afluente during the rest of the tour.
Guayaquil Woodpecker Campephilus gayaquilensis
Two seen in Tumbes on 3rd were the only sightings.
OVENBIRDS & ALLIES Furnariidae
Coastal Miner Geositta peruviana
Endemic to Peru. One on 2nd between Piura and Tumbes.
Striated Earthcreeper Upucerthia serrana
Endemic to Peru. Eventually seen very well after much effort. A pair located near the traditional site of Cruz Conga may have been nesting in an earth bank.
White-winged Cinclodes Cinclodes atacamensis
Seen at Encanada on 20th and a pair in the Rio Chonta Valley the next day.
Pacific Hornero Furnarius cinnamomeus
Seen in good numbers in Tumbes and the first half of the “Maranon Circuit” until we crossed the Maranon after Jaen on 11th.
Rufous Spinetail Synallaxis unirufa
One seen 12th at Abra Patricia and heard there on 14th. Heard at Abra Barro Negro on 18th.
Azara's Spinetail Synallaxis azarae
Common at Abra Patricia and Abra Barro Negro and seen on two dates near the pass at Patricia.
Dark-breasted Spinetail Synallaxis albigularis
One seen well at Afluente on 15th.
Blackish-headed Spinetail Synallaxis tithys
Seen on three dates in Tumbes. Considered “Endangered”.
Maranon Spinetail Synallaxis maranonica
Two at the usual site of Tamborapa on 11th. Found as usual foraging on the ground in the leaf litter. Considered “Vulnerable”.
Necklaced Spinetail Synallaxis stictothorax
Small numbers (max. 6) seen on two dates in the El Tocto and El Limon area.
Chinchipe Spinetail Synallaxis chinchipensis
Endemic to Peru. Five seen at Tamporapa on 11th. Easily seen this year.
Baron's Spinetail Cranioleuca baroni
Endemic to Peru. Regularly encountered from Leimebamba through to Cajamarca towards the end of the tour.
Line-cheeked Spinetail Cranioleuca antisiensis
A pair at Abra Porculla on 10th.
Ash-browed Spinetail Cranioleuca curtata
Single at Aguas Verdes on 15th.
White-chinned Thistletail Schizoeaca fuliginosa
Endemic to Peru. A single seen at Abra Barro Negro on 18th.
Great Spinetail Siptornopis hypochondriacus
Endemic to Peru. Three eventually came into view in the persistant drizzle on 21st. Considered “Endangered” by virtue of threats to habitat.
Streak-throated Canastero Asthenes humilis
Three seen on 20th between Cruz Conga and Cajamarca.
Many-striped Canastero Asthenes flammulata
Heard on 18th at Abra Barro Negro and 3 seen well at Cruz Conga on 20th.
Russet-mantled Softtail Phacellodomus berlepschi
Endemic to Peru. Abra Barro Negro is THE site for this endemic. We had a frustrating time there on 17th, hearing the birds quite frequently. The following day we were rewarded for our very early start with some close views of a very resonsive pair. Considered “Vulnerable”.
Common Thornbird Phacellodomus rufifrons
Seen at Tamborapa on 11th.
Chestnut-backed Thornbird Phacellodomus dorsalis
Endemic to Peru. Two seen in the Maraon Canyon on 18th and head the next day above Hacienda Limon. Considered “Vulnerable”.
Equatorial Graytail Xenerpestes singularis
Heard on 15th above Afluente.
Pearled Treerunner Margarornis squamiger
Seen in small numbers on 13th and 14th in the Abra Patricia area.
Streaked Tuftedcheek Pseudocolaptes boissonneautii
Seen in small numbers in the Abra Patricia area on 13th and 14th.
Striped Treehunter Thripadectes holostictus
Superb close-up views of an extremely tape-responsive bird near the pass at Abra Patricia on 13th.
Rufous-necked Foliage-gleaner Syndactyla ruficollis
One seen by the leader only in Tumbes on 3rd and 2 at Abra Porculla on 10th near the breakfast table. This Tumbesian endemic is considered “Vulnerable”.
Henna-hooded Foliage-gleaner Hylocryptus erythrocephalus
Three seen well in Tumbes on 4th. Two more at Abra Porculla on 10th continues a good run of observations of this species there in recent tours. “Vulnerable”.
WOODCREEPERS Dendrocoptidae
Olivaceous Woodcreeper Sittasomus griseicapillus
Common in the forests of Tumbes. One heard on 15th below Abra Patricia was the only record from the main part of the tour.
Strong-billed Woodcreeper Xiphocolaptes promeropirhynchus
Seen on three dates in Tumbes.
Olive-backed Woodcreeper Xiphorhynchus triangularis
Common in the Abra Patricia area plus a single at Abra Barro Negro on 17th. Streak-headed Woodcreeper Lepidocolaptes souleyetii
Common in Tumbes and smaller numbers recorded in the El Tocto and El Limon areas.
Red-billed Scythebill Campylorhamphus trochilirostris
One in the Tumbes National Forest on 5th was the only one seen.
TYPICAL ANTBIRDS Thamnophilidae
Collared Antshrike Sakesphorus bernardi
Seen on four dates in Tumbes with a max. of 4 birds on 3rd. During the main tour we saw this species at Rafan, El Limon and a male of the race shumbae in the Chamaya Valley near Jaen on 10th. The latter example is the subject of a paper proposing a split.
Chapman's Antshrike Thamnophilus zarumae
At least one pair showing well at Abra Porculla on 10th.
Lined Antshrike Thamnophilus palliatus
Single responsive male seen near Afluente on 15th.
Uniform Antshrike Thamnophilus unicolor
Heard at Abra Patricia on 12th and two seen well at Garcia Ridge trail the next day.
Northern Slaty-Antshrike Thamnophilus leucogaster
Three birds of the subspecies leucogaster (Maranon Slaty-Antshrike) seen well at Tamborapa on 11th.
Variable Antshrike Thamnophilus caerulescens
Heard on 13th at Abra Patricia.
Rufous-capped Antshrike Thamnophilus ruficapilla
Encountered frequently in the Pomacochas (one male in the reed-bed at the lake!), Abra Patricia and Abra Barro Negro areas.
Plain Antvireo Dysithamnus mentalis
Common in mixed flocks in Tumbes.
Stripe-chested Antwren Myrmotherula longicauda
Heard near Afluente on 15th.
Yellow-breasted Antwren Herpsilochmus axillaris
Two on 15th at Afluente.
Long-tailed Antbird Drymophila caudata
Two seen well near the pass on 14th near Abra Patricia. Heard nearby the next day.
Blackish Antbird Cercomacra nigrescens
Two above Afluente on 15th.
Pacific Fire-eye Priglena pacifica
Three seen well in Tumbes on 4th.
White-backed Fire-eye Pyriglena leuconota
Seen at Abra Patricia on 14th and heard there the next day.
White-browed Antbird Myrmoborus leucophrys
Two exceptionally close birds on 15th at Aguas Verdes.
Chestnut-crowned Antpitta Grallaria ruficapilla
One seen at Abra Porculla on 10th was the only sighting. Heard in many other localities near Pomacochas and Abra Barro Negro.
Scrub (Watkin’s) Antpitta Grallaria andicola
One seen extremely well in Tumbes on 5th. Heard nearby the following day. A Tumbesian endemic.
Chestnut Antpitta Grallaria blakei
Endemic to Peru. Heard near Abra Patricia on 13th but too distant and inaccessable to lure by playback unfortunately.
Rusty-tinged Antpitta Grallaria przewalskii
Endemic to Peru. Singles seen on 13th and 14th at Abra Patricia.
Rufous Antpitta Grallaria rufula obscura
Heard only at Abra Barro Negro but too distant to attract using playback.
Rufous (Cajamarca) Antpitta Grallaria rufula cajamarcae
A Rufous Antpitta seen extremely well in a fravoured spot near Cruz Conga may well prove to be a separate species by virtue of vocalisation differences.
Ochre-fronted Antpitta Grallaricula ochraceifrons
Endemic to Peru. Heard once in response to playback but not seen this year.
Rusty-breasted Antpitta Grallaricula ferrugineipectus
A single showed well but briefly near the pass at Abra Patricia on 12th. Heard 17th and 18th at Abra Barro Negro.
TAPACULOS Rhinocryptidae
Elegant Crescentchest Melanopareia elegans
Heard on 8th at El Limon and 2 seen the next day there. Two more encountered by chance on 10th at Abra Porculla.
Maranon Crescentchest Melanopareia maranonica
A “Near-threatened” species of northern Peru and adjacent Ecuador. One seen very well for a lengthy period in a gulley east of Jaen on 11th.
Blackish Tapaculo Scytalopus latrans
One seen near Abra Barro Negro on 17th and heard the next day. Rufous-vented Tapaculo Scytalopus femoralis
Heard on four dates near Abra Patricia but none were particularly responsive to playback.
White-crowned Tapaculo Scytalopus atratus
Heard at Afluente on 15th.
COTINGAS Cotingidae
Peruvian Plantcutter Phytotoma raimondii
Endemic to Peru. Three of these “Endangered” cotingas seen well at Rafan on 8th.
Red-crested Cotinga Ampelion rubrocristata
Seen on two dates in the Abra Barro Negro area. Daily max. 3.
Green-and-black Fruiteater Pipreola riefferii
Seen on two dates (and heard on a third) in the Abra Patricia area.
Red-ruffed Fruitcrow Pyroderus scutatus
Heard “booming” on two dates near Afluente in the Abra Patricia area.
Andean Cock-of-the-Rock Rupicola peruviana
A male seen briefly at Afluente on 18th.
MANAKINS Pipridae
Wing-barred Piprites Piprites chloris
Heard at Afluente on 16th.
TYRANT FLYCATCHERS Tyrannidae
Southern Beardless-Tyrannulet Camptostoma obsoletum
Common throughout the tour.
Tumbes Tyrannulet Phaeomyias tumbezana
Common during the first half of the tour (including the Tumbes extension). One seen on 18th as we dropped into the Maranon towards Balsas.
Grey-and-white Tyrannulet Pseudelaenia leucospodia
Common from Rafan through to El Limon during the first three days of the “main tour”.
Pacific Elaenia Myiopagis subplacens
Seen on two dates in Tumbes.
Yellow-bellied Elaenia Elaenia flavogaster
Singles at Tamborapa on 11th and near Balsas on 19th.
Sierran Elaenia Elaenia pallatangae
Common in the Abra Patricia and Abra Barro Negro areas.
Streak-necked Flycatcher Mionectes striaticollis
Seen on four dates in the Abra Patricia area. Daily max. 8 birds.
Ochre-bellied Flycatcher Mionectes oleagineus
Seen on two dates in Tumbes.
Inca Flycatcher Leptopogon taczanowskii
Endemic to Peru. One seen at Garcia on 13th.
Slaty-capped Flycatcher Leptopogon superciliaris
Two seen on 15th near Garcia.
Lulu’s Tody-Tyrant Poecilotriccus luluae
Endemic to Peru. Four seen on 14th at Abra Patricia and heard there the next day.
Ecuadorian Tyrannulet Phylloscartes gualaquizae
Two seen well at Aguas Verdes on 15th. The best views I’ve ever had of this species.
Mottle-cheeked Tyrannulet Phylloscartes ventralis
Seen on three dates in the Abra Patricia area. p
Black-capped Tyrannulet Phyllomyias cinereiceps
Single near Abra Patricia on 13th.
Peruvian Tyrannulet Zimmerius gracilipes
Endemic to Peru. Seen on three dates in the Abra Patricia area. Common by voice here.
White-banded Tyrannulet Mecocerculus stictopterus
Commonly seen during our two days at Abra Barro Negro.
Torrent Tyrannulet Serpophaga cinerea
One in the Utcubamba Valley on 16th and 6 on 21st in the Chonta Valley.
Black-crested Tit-Tyrant Anairetes nigrocristatus
Seen on the two dates during the final stages of the tour we birded in the Cajamarca area.
Tufted Tit-Tyrant Anairetes parulus
Seen on three dates.
Tawny-crowned Pygmy-Tyrant Euscarthmus meloryphus
Widespread and seen on half the dates of the tour.
Scale-crested Pygmy-Tyrant Lophotriccus pileatus
Frequently encountered in small numbers in Tumbes. Heard at Abra Patricia on 15th.
Black-throated Tody-Tyrant Hemitriccus granadensis
Heard on two dates during the tour: Abra Patricia on 14th and Abra Barro Negro on 17th.
Cinnamon-breasted Tody-Tyrant Hemitriccus cinnamomeipectus
Frustratingly heard only at the normally reliable site at Abra Patricia on 13th.
Common Tody-Flycatcher Todirostrum cinereum
Frequently seen in small numbers in Tumbes. Two at Tamborapa were the only other records.
Yellow-olive Flycatcher Tolmomyias sulphurescens
Common in Tumbes.
Pacific Royal Flycatcher Onychorhynchus occidentalis
Seen on four dates in Tumbes. A bird roosting at Quebrada El Faical regularly during our sta was particularly welcome with Andy getting some good photos. Considered “Endangered”.
Bran-coloured Flycatcher Myiophobus fasciatus
Heard at Afluente on 15th.
Olive-chested Flycatcher Myiophobus cryptoxanthus
One seen well at Afluente on 15th.
Black-tailed Flycatcher Myiobius atricaudus
Seen most days in Tumbes.
Cinnamon Flycatcher Pyrrhomyias cinnamomea
Common in the Abra Patricia and Abra Barro Negro areas.
Cliff Flycatcher Hirundinea ferruginea
Seen on four dates near Garcia where a couple of pairs held territory.
Grey-breasted Flycatcher Lathotriccus griseipectus
Seen in Tumbes on the walk to Pozo del Pato on 4th. Considered “Vulnerable”.
Smoke-coloured Pewee Contopus fumigatus
Small numbers near the pass at Abra Patricia.
Tumbes Pewee Contopus punensis
Common in Tumbes and at Quebrada El Limon on 9th.
Olive-sided Flycatcher Contopus cooperi
A single in Tumbes on 3rd and heard on 15th at Abra Patricia.
Black Phoebe Sayornis nigricans
Small numbers near Abra Patricia and in the Utcubamba Valley.
Vermilion Flycatcher Pyrocephalus rubinus
Seen on approximately half the dates of the tour.
Peruvian Chat-Tyrant Ochthoeca spodionota
Heard at Abra Barro Negro. This species appears to be vocal at dawn, or just before.
Maroon-chested Chat-Tyrant Ochthoeca thoracica
Four seen together at Abra Patricia on 13th and heard there the next day.
Piura Chat-Tyrant Ochthoeca piurae
Endemic to Peru. A single bird in the regular (this year at least) quebrada below Abra Porculla on 10th.
Rufous-breasted Chat-Tyrant Ochthoeca rufipectoralis
Four individuals seen on to dates at Abra Barro Negro.
Brown-backed Chat-Tyrant Ochthoeca fumicolor
Small numbers on two dates in the Abra Barro Negro area and one near Cajamarca on 21st.
White-browed Chat-Tyrant Ochthoeca leucophrys
Seen on three dates near Celendin and Cajamarca.
Tumbes Tyrant Tumbezia salvini
Endemic to Peru. This “Near Threatened” species is a personal favourite of mine and I was delighted to find up to three birds on the two dates we visited the El Tocto Track.
Streak-throated Bush-Tyrant Myiotheretes striaticollis
Singles on two dates near Cajamarca at the end of the tour.
Smoky Bush-Tyrant Myiotheretes fumigatus
One at Abra Barro Negro on 18th.
Black-billed Shrike-Tyrant Agriornis montana
Common between Celendin and Cajamarca on 20th. Smaller numbers the previous day as we climbed out of the Maranon towards Celendin.
White-tailed Shrike-Tyrant Agriornis andicola
Three seen at the regular site near Cruz Conga. We were able to study this species (considered “Vulnerable”) at close range and appreciate the differences in throat-streaking, bill colour and structure between this and the above species.
Rufous-webbed Tyrant Polioxolmis rufipennis
One seen in bare fields as we approached Celendin on 19th and 3 the following day near Cruz Conga.
Rufous-naped Ground-Tyrant Muscisaxicola rufivertex
A single near Celendin on 19th.
Short-tailed Field-Tyrant Muscigralla brevicauda
Two seen at El Algorrobo on 2nd were the only ones in Tumbes. We saw 3 on 9th near El Limon and then a single the next day at El Tocto.
Rufous-tailed Tyrant Knipolegus poecilurus
Single near Garcia on 12th and 2 there on 15th.
White-winged Black-Tyrant Knipolegus aterrimus
Four including a couple of stunning males at San Marcos on 21st.
Masked Water-Tyrant Fluvicola nengeta
Small numbers on the muddy fringes of the mangroves in Tumbes on two dates.
Long-tailed Tyrant Colonia colonus
Two at Afluente on 15th.
Rufous Flycatcher Myiarchus semirufus
Endemic to Peru. Two of these very rare birds at Rafan on 8th.
Dusky-capped Flycatcher Myiarchus tuberculifer
One on 20th was the only record for the tour.
Sooty-crowned Flycatcher Myiarchus phaeocephalus
Seen many times in Tumbes, thereafter a single at Tamborapa on 11th.
Brown-crested Flycatcher Myiarchus tyrannulus
One at Abra Porculla on 10th.
Boat-billed Flycatcher Megarhynchus pitangua
Heard at Afluente on 15th.
Social Flycatcher Myiozetetes similis
Three at Afluente on 15th.
Golden-crowned Flycatcher Myiodynastes chrysocephalus
One seen above Afluente on 15th.
Baird's Flycatcher Myiodynastes bairdii
A Tumbesian endemic seen well in Tumbes and in the Quebrada El Limon area on 8th and 9th.
Streaked Flycatcher Myiodynastes maculatus
Two near Afluente on 15th.
Tropical Kingbird Tyrannus melancholicus
Seen on nine dates throughout the tour.
Barred Becard Pachyramphus versicolor
Seen on three dates in the Abra Patricia area. Daily max. 3 birds on 14th.
Masked Tityra Tityra semifasciata
A female on 15th at Aguas Verdes was the only record.
SWALLOWS & MARTINS Hirundinidae
Grey-breasted Martin Progne chalybea
Small numbers around the mangroves in Tumbes and the Jaen area.
Blue-and-white Swallow Pygochelidon cyanoleuca
Not seen in Tumbes but recorded on 12 dates during the rest of the tour.
Brown-bellied Swallow Notiochelidon murina
Seen in the Abra Barro Negro area with around a dozen birds seen there.
Southern Rough-winged Swallow Stelgidopteryx ruficollis
Small numbers on four dates only.
Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica
Small numbers over the pastures adjacent to Lago Pomacochas were the only records on two dates.
WRENS Troglodytidae
Fasciated Wren Campylorhynchus fasciatus
Common, widespread and noisy! Recorded on ten dates.
Sedge Wren Cistothorus platensis
Two at Abra Barro Negro on 17th and heard at Cruz Conga on 20th.
Sharpe's Wren Cinnycerthia olivascens
Endemic to Peru. Three birds responded beautifully to playback at Abra Patricia on 14th.
Speckle-breasted Wren Thryothorus sclateri
Easily seen in Tumbes but the maronica subspecies was only seen at Tamborapa on 11th.
Superciliated Wren Thryothorus superciliaris
Seen in Tumbes and during the first section of the “Maranon Circuit” from Rafan through to Abra Porculla on 10th.
House Wren Troglodytes aedon
Seen in small numbers on most days.
Mountain Wren Troglodytes solstitialis
Seen at Abra Patricia and at Abra Barro Negro.
Grey-breasted Wood-Wren Henicorhina leucophrys
Recorded on four dates at Abra Patricia where a few were seen on the trails there.
Bar-winged Wood-Wren Henicorhina leucoptera
Up to 3 birds seen (mostly brief views) near Abra Patricia. Considered “Near Threatened” and restricted to northern Peru and adjacent Ecuador.
MOCKINGBIRDS Mimidae
Long-tailed Mockingbird Mimus longicaudatus
Common in arid country.
THRUSHES & SOLITAIRES Turdidae
Andean Solitaire Myadestes ralloides
Recorded on four dates in the Abra Patricia area with a sighting of a single birds on 13th.
Swainson's Thrush Catharus ustulatus
Four seen in the Afluente area on 15th.
Pale-eyed Thrush Platycichla leucops
One at Afluente on 15th.
Chiguanco Thrush Turdus chiguanco
Many seen on the last three dates of the tour as we approached and birded around Cajamarca.
Great Thrush Turdus fuscater
Frequently seen during the latter half of the tour. One of Bob’s favourites!
Plumbeous-backed Thrush Turdus reevei
Small numbers in Tumbes and the El Limon “Guan Canyons”.
Maranon Thrush Turdus maranonicus
Two seen in the Utcubamba Valley on 16th.
Black-billed Thrush Turdus ignobilis
Single record from Aguas Verdes on 15th.
GNATWRENS & GNATCATCHERS Polioptilidae
Long-billed Gnatwren Ramphocaenus melanurus
One seen in Tumbes on 4th.
Tropical Gnatcatcher Polioptila plumbea
Common in all arid areas throughpout the tour.
Maranon Gnatcatcher Polioptila maior
Endemic to Peru. Two seen at the usual San Marcos site.
JAYS Corvidae
Green Jay Cyanocorax yncas
Frequently encountered in the Abra Patricia area after being heard only at Tamborapa on 11th.
White-tailed Jay Cyanocorax mystacalis
Frequently encountered in Tumbes and then at Quebrada El Limon on 8th and 9th.
White-collared Jay Cyanocorax viridicyana
Two seen at Abra Patricia on 13th.
OLD WORLD SPARROWS Passeridae
House Sparrow Passer domesticus
Seen on five dates.
VIREOS & GREENLETS Vireonidae
Brown-capped Vireo Vireo leucophrys
One seen at Abra Barro Negro on 17th.
Red-eyed Vireo Vireo olivaceus
Seen on two dates.
Olivaceous Vireo Hylophilus olivaceus
Two at Afluente on 15th.
Lesser Greenlet Hylophilus decurtatus
Common in Tumbes, but more frequently heard than seen.
Rufous-browed Peppershrike Cyclarhis gujanensis
Ubiquitous and recorded at most sites throughout the tour.
Slaty-capped Shrike-Vireo Vireolanius leucotis
Heard at Aguas Verdes on 15th.
SISKINS & GOLDFINCHES Fringillidae
Hooded Siskin Carduelis magellanica
Recorded on 8 dates.
NEW WORLD WARBLERS Parulidae
Tropical Parula Parula pitiayumi
Recorded on 7 dates, mostly from Tumbes.
Yellow (Mangrove) Warbler Dendroica petechia peruviana
Up to 5 in the mangroves at El Algorrobo and Puerto Pizzaro.
Canada Warbler Wilsonia canadensis
One near Abra Patricia on 13th.
Slate-throated Redstart Myioborus miniatus
Small numbers at Abra Porculla and Abra Patricia.
Spectacled Redstart Myioborus melanocephalus
Seen on 6 dates at Abra Patricia and Abra Barro Negro. More numerous than the above species.
Grey-and-gold Warbler Basileuterus fraseri
Small numbers in Tumbes and Quebrada El Limon.
Citrine Warbler Basileuterus luteoviridis
Four seen along one of the trails below the pass at Abra Patricia.
Black-crested Warbler Basileuterus nigrocristatus
Small numbers seen at Abra Barro Negro and between Celendin and Cajamarca.
Russet-crowned Warbler Basileuterus coronatus
Two seen from the trail near Abra Patricia and heard there daily.
Three-banded Warbler Basileuterus trifasciatus
Six at Abra Porculla on 10th were the only records.
Three-striped Warbler Basileuterus tristriatus
Small numbers almost daily at Abra Patricia.
BANANAQUIT Coerebidae
Bananaquit Coereba flaveola
Seen on five dates.
TANAGERS & ALLIES Thraupinae
Cinereous Conebill Conirostrum cinereum
Recorded in small numbers on 3 dates.
Blue-backed Conebill Conirostrum sitticolor
One or two seen on both days we birdwatched near Abra Barro Negro.
Magpie Tanager Cissopis leveriana
Five near Afluente on 15th.
Grass-green Tanager Chlorornis riefferii
One at Abra Barro Negro on 17th.
White-capped Tanager Sericossypha albocristata
Amazing views of a birds at dawn at Garcia.
Common Bush-Tanager Chlorospingus ophthalmicus
Recorded on three dates at Abra Patricia.
Yellow-throated Bush-Tanager Chlorospingus flavigularis
Two seen near Abra Patricia on 13th.
Grey-hooded Bush-Tanager Cnemoscopus rubrirostris
Singles seen on two dates at Abra Patricia.
Black-capped Hemispingus Hemispingus atropileus
Two seen at Abra Patricia on 13th.
Superciliaried Hemispingus Hemispingus superciliaris
Common in the Abra Barro Negro area.
Rufous-chested Tanager Thlypopsis ornata
Two birds at Abra Barro Negro on 17th and another near Cajamarca on 20th.
Buff-bellied Tanager Thlypopsis inornata
Endemic to Peru. At least three birds seen in the Utcubamba Valley on 16th.
Rufous-crested Tanager Creurgops verticalis
Two birds seen on two days at Garcia, Abra Patricia.
Yellow-crested Tanager Tachyphonus rufiventer
One on 15th near Afluente.
Highland Hepatic Tanager Piranga lutea
Seen on nine dates, most common in Tumbes.
White-winged Tanager Piranga leucoptera
A single male near Afluente on 15th.
Vermilion Tanager Calochaetes coccineus
Two above Afluente on 15th.
Huallaga Tanager Ramphocelus melanogaster
Endemic to Peru. Eight near Afluente on 15th.
Lemon-rumped Tanager Ramphocelus icternotus
A pair at Quebrada Faical on 3rd. Only recently recorded for the first time in Peru (also in Tumbes).
Blue-grey Tanager Thraupis episcopus
Recorded on ten dates.
Blue-capped Tanager Thraupis cyanocephala
Recorded every day around Abra Patricia and Abra Barro Negro.
Blue-and-yellow Tanager Thraupis bonariensis
Two on 16th in the Utcubamba Valley and a single near Cajamarca on 21st.
Palm Tanager Thraupis palmarum
Four near Aguas Verdes on 15th.
Hooded Mountain-Tanager Buthraupis wetmorei
Small numbers in the cloud forest patches at Abra Patricia and Abra Barro Negro.
Scarlet-bellied Mountain-Tanager Anisognathus igniventris
Small numbers seen at Abra Barro Negro.
Blue-winged Mountain-Tanager Anisognathus somptuosus
Small numbers (max. 6 in a day) daily at Abra Patricia.
Yellow-throated Tanager Iridosornis analis
Seen on three dates in the Abra Patricia area.
Yellow-scarfed Tanager Iridosornis reinhardti
Endemic to Peru. Five birds just below the pass at Abra Patricia in a mixed species flock on 13th.
Buff-breasted Mountain-Tanager Dubusia taeniata
One showed well at Abra Barro Negro on 18th.
Fawn-breasted Tanager Pipraeidea melanonota
One seen at Abra Barro Negro was a bit of a surprise, but that’s what it was!
Purple-throated Euphonia Euphonia chlorotica
Seen on two dates.
Thick-billed Euphonia Euphonia laniirostris
Common in Tumbes and a sighting of two birds at Quebrada El Limon.
Orange-bellied Euphonia Euphonia xanthogaster
Common around Abra Patricia.
Turquoise Tanager Tangara mexicana
Two at Aguas Verdes on 15th.
Paradise Tanager Tangara chilensis
Common around Aguas Verdes on 15th.
Green-and-gold Tanager Tangara schrankii
Common between Afluente and Aguas Verdes on 15th.
Golden Tanager Tangara arthus
About a dozen seen at Afluente on 15th.
Saffron-crowned Tanager Tangara xanthocephala
Regularly seen on the Abra Patricia road between Garcia and Aguas Verdes.
Golden-eared Tanager Tangara chrysotis
Single above Afluente on 15th.
Flame-faced Tanager Tangara parzudakii
Seen in good numbers during our stay near Abra Patricia, especially at Garcia.
Spotted Tanager Tangara punctata
Five near Aguas Verdes on 15th.
Bay-headed Tanager Tangara gyrola
Singles on two dates in Tumbes and 5 at Aguas Verdes on 15th.
Metallic-green Tanager Tangara labradorides
Four seen on two dates at Garcia.
Blue-browed Tanager Tangara cyanotis
A single seen by sharp-eyed Andy and Melissa at Garcia on 14th.
Blue-necked Tanager Tangara cyanicollis
Common below Afluente on 15th.
Masked Tanager Tangara nigrocincta
One in a mixed tanager flock on 15th near Afluente.
Beryl-spangled Tanager Tangara nigroviridis
Seen on four dates near Abra Patricia.
Blue-and-black Tanager Tangara vassorii
Small numbers seen at Abra Patricia and Abra Barro Negro.
Silver-backed Tanager Tangara viridicollis
Seen on three dates near Abra Patricia and one in the Utcubamba Valley on 16th.
Yellow-bellied Dacnis Dacnis flaviventer
A female near Aguas Verdes on 15th.
Black-faced Dacnis Dacnis lineata
Four seen near Afluente on 15th.
BUNTINGS & SPARROWS Emberizidae
Red-crested Finch Coryphospingus cucullatus
A dozen or so near Jaen on 11th.
Peruvian Sierra-Finch Phrygilus punensis
Small numbers near Cajamarca.
Mourning Sierra-Finch Phrygilus fruticeti
Small numbers near Cajamarca.
Ash-breasted Sierra-Finch Phrygilus plebejus
Small numbers in Tumbes and near Cajamarca.
Cinereous Finch Piezorhina cinerea
Virtually endemic to Peru. Seen in good numbers in Tumbes and from Rafan to El Tocto on the main circuit of the tour.
Grey-winged Inca-Finch Incaspiza ortizi
Endemic to Peru and considered “Vulnerable”. We saw four birds in the end above Hacieda Limon in the Maranon Canyon. This species seems to be easier to find from October onwards when they are singing.
Buff-bridled Inca-Finch Incaspiza laeta
Endemic to Peru. Seen both days in the Maranon Canyon above Balsas and at San Marcos.
Little Inca-Finch Incaspiza watkinsi
Endemic to Peru. Three seen at the usual site in the Chamaya Valley on the way in to Jaen on 10th.
Collared Warbling-Finch Poospiza hispaniolensis
Seen on two dates. Most common in the El Tocto / El Limon area.
Plain-tailed Warbling-Finch Poospiza alticola
Endemic to Peru. Two elusive birds near Cruz Conga on 20th in the paramo scrub were a surprise to the leader, although there are records from this circuit in the north. Thanks to Kraig who persisted with these before we sealed the I.D. Four seen later as we travelled on to Cajamarca were even more of a surprise!
Blue-black Grassquit Volatinia jacarina
Seen on four dates.
Variable Seedeater Sporophila corvina
Common in Tumbes where we saw it on four dates.
Parrot-billed Seedeater Sporophila peruviana
We saw this seedeater on several dates during the tour. Largest numbers were in Tumbes where we noted more than 50 going to roost at El Algorrobo.
Chestnut-throated Seedeater Sporophila telasco
Small numbers near Jaen on two dates.
Band-tailed Seedeater Catamenia analis
Seen on four dates, more common near Cajamarca.
Plain-coloured Seedeater Catamenia inornata
Small numbers at Abra Barro Negro and Cajamarca.
Dull-coloured Grassquit Tiaris obscura
Common near Balsas.
Rusty Flower-piercer Diglossa sittoides
Seen on two dates; 2 females at Abra Porculla on 10th and five in theUtcubamba Valley on 16th.
White-sided Flowerpiercer Diglossa albilatera
Small numbers at Abra Patricia and Abra Barro Negro.
Moustached Flowerpiercer Diglossa mystacalis
Seen at Abra Barro Negro and near Cruz Conga.
Black-throated Flowerpiercer Diglossa brunneiventris
Seen around Abra Barro Negro.
Deep-blue Flowerpiercer Diglossopis glauca
Seen on two dates near Abra Patricia.
Bluish Flowerpiercer Diglossopis caerulescens
One seen near Abra Patricia on 14th.
Masked Flowerpiercer Diglossopis cyanea
Seen on four dates at Abra Patricia and Abra Barro Negro.
Saffron Finch Sicalis flaveola
Seen on 7 dates.
Grassland Yellow-Finch Sicalis luteola
Common around Lago Pomacochas.
Sulphur-throated Finch Sicalis taczanowskii
Took some finding but our hard work at El Tocto yielded 5 birds in the heat of the day on 9th. Restricted to southern Ecuador and northern Peru.
Yellow-breasted Brush-Finch Atlapetes latinuchus
Seen at Abra Patricia, Abra Barro Negro and near Cajamarca where the race baroni was recorded.
White-headed Brush-Finch Atlapetes albiceps
Small numbers in Tumbes, Quebrada El Limon and Abra Porculla.
Bay-crowned Brush-Finch Atlapetes seebohmi
One bird at Abra Porculla on 10th. Thanks to Andy and his persistance for this one!
White-winged Brush-Finch Atlapetes leucopterus
Quite common in Tumbes and in the El Tocto and Quebrada El Limon area.
Black-capped Sparrow Arremon abeillei
Common and easy to see in Tumbes and around Quebrada El Limon. Conversely the abeillei race of the Maranon drainage was elusive at Tamborapa.
Tumbes Sparrow Aimophila stolzmanni
Seen on two dates near El Tocto and El Limon. Max. 20 birds.
Yellow-browed Sparrow Ammodramus aurifrons
Heard near Afluente on 15th.
Rufous-collared Sparrow Zonotrichia capensis
Recorded on 11 dates once we left Tumbes and the coast.
GROSBEAKS & SALTATORS Cardinalidae
Streaked Saltator Saltator striatipectus
Seen on several dates, including some of the “unstreaked” ones in Tumbes.
Greyish Saltator Saltator coerulescens
Two at Rafan.
Golden-bellied Grosbeak Pheucticus chrysogaster
Seen on nine dates throughout the tour.
Black-cowled Saltator Saltator nigriceps
Two birds at Abra Porculla on 10th as usual.
Golden-billed Saltator Saltator aurantiirostris
One seen by the leader on 20th.
NEW WORLD BLACKBIRDS Icteridae
Peruvian Meadowlark Sturnella bellicosa
Seen on nine dates.
Yellow-winged Blackbird Agelaius thilius
Two in the reeds at Lago Pomacochas.
Scrub Blackbird Dives warszewiczi
Seen on five dates, mostly in Tumbes.
Giant Cowbird Scaphidura oryzivora
One at Aguas Verdes on 15th.
Great-tailed Grackle Quiscalus mexicanus
Common in Tumbes near the mangroves.
Yellow-tailed Oriole Icterus mesomelas
Seen on 6 dates. Common in Tumbes but only a few seen as we left Balsas for Celendin in the Maranon Canyon.
White-edged Oriole Icterus graceannae
Seen on six dates in Tumbes and in the coastal region from Rafan through to Jaen.
Oriole Blackbird Gymnomystax mexicanus
One on 12th at Lago Pomacochas. I don’t know what this “lowland” icterid is doing here! I have previously seen it in the Utcubamba Valley but this is my first record personally here at Pomacochas. It was seen here by a Toucan Birding Tours group in August 2005 however. Clements gives its altitudinal range to 600m in “Birds of Peru”.
Yellow-billed Cacique Amblycercus holosericeus
Single on two dates in Tumbes and one at Abra Barro Negro.
Russet-backed Oropendola Psarocolius angustifrons
Seen on two dates.
Crested Oropendola Psarocolius decumanus
Single near Aguas Verdes on 15th.
Yellow-rumped Cacique Cacicus cela
The usual group at the colony at Aguas Verdes.
Mountain Cacique Cacicus chrysonotus
A couple of birds on 13th at Abra Patricia and common by voice at Abra Barro Negro.
MAMMALS
Mantled Howler Monkey Alouatta palliata was seen on two dates in Tumbes including a group of 12 . Grey Fox Atelocynus microtis was seen nea El Limon on 9th and 6 Andean Coatis Nasuella olivacea were seen in Tumbes on 6th. The most frequently encountered mammal was Guayaquil Squirrel Sciurus stramineus which was seen on 5 dates.
Colin Bushell
Preston UK December 2005.
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