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Cotinga 22 Contents

News & Reviews Features

3Club News 15 An update on status of from Isla Cozumel, Steve N. G. Howell compiled by Chris Balchin 21 First report of cavity-nesting in Elfin-woods Warbler Dendroica angelae at 7 Neotropical Club Maricao State , Puerto Rico Rafael Rodríguez-Mojica Conservation Awards 24 Observations on the vocalisations and behaviour of Black-chested Tyrant 10 Neotropical News compiled by Thomas Stuart Taeniotriccus andrei from the Serra dos Carajás, Pará, Kevin J. Zimmer and Andrew Whittaker 13 Taxonomic Round-up compiled by Guy M. Kirwan 30 First record of Yellow-cheeked Pachyramphus xanthogenys in Madre de Dios, , and notes on birds from the same locality Daniel J. Lebbin 94 Photospot Magellanic 35 New localities for the Austral antarcticus in , and first Campephilus magellanicus record from the Falkland Islands Germán Pugnali, Mark Pearman, Graciela Common Escudero, Daniel Vaquero and Tony Chater Nyctibius griseus 38 A Brazilian Merganser octosetaceus nest in a rock crevice, with repro- 98 Neotropical Notebook ductive notes Ivana Reis Lamas and Jean Pierre Santos compiled by Juan Mazar Barnett, Guy M. Kirwan and 42 Breeding biology of White-faced Nunbird Hapaloptila castanea in Jeremy Minns Nicholas Athanas and Judy Davis 114 Reviews 47 The threatened birds of the río Frío Valley, Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, • Handbook of the birds of Ralf Strewe and Cristobal Navarro the world: volume 8 • Annotated checklist of the 56 Información adicional sobre la avifauna de los estados de Hidalgo y Querétaro, birds of Argentina México, incluyendo nuevos registros estatales Fernando González-García, • Lista anotada de las aves Fernando Puebla Olivares, Sergio Barrios Monterde, Mara Neri Fajardo y Héctor de . Quinta edición Gómez de Silva Garza • Field guide to the birds of Machu Picchu, Peru 66 Aspectos de la biología del Pitirre Real Tyrannus cubensis, en Najasa, Camagüey, Pedro Regalado • Birding in 73 A bird survey of Torcillo-Sarayoj, the lower Yungas of Madidi National Park, Bolivia A. Bennett Hennessey Editorial Guidelines, Advertising Information and 79 Notes on Cock-tailed Tyrant Alectrurus tricolor in Bolivia José M. Padial and list of NBC Country Javier Heredia Representatives are on the inside back cover. 81 Preliminary bird observations in the rio Jauaperí region, basin, Amazonia, Brazil Mogens Trolle and Bruno A. Walther 86 The Ocellated Meleagris ocellata in Chiquibul Forest, Belize, 1994–1996 Tony King and Nicodemus Bol 92 Ocorrência do Formigueiro-do-nordeste iheringi na Estação Ecológica de Acauã, Minas Gerais, Brasil Santos D’Angelo Neto & Marcelo Ferreira de Vasconcelos

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Cotinga 22 Editorial

After 22 issues and ten years as Senior Editor of is now protected within a privately owned Cotinga, the time has come to pass on the mantle reserve at Yanacocha, bought specifically for it. The to someone with fresh ideas so that the journal recently described and Vulnerable Pink-legged continues to evolve and maintains its rightful Graveteiro Acrobatornis fonsecai is now similarly position as the most widely read journal on protected within a private nature reserve in the Neotropical birds. The first issue of Cotinga, Serra das Lontras of Bahia, Brazil. These success published in February 1994, was dedicated to the stories, that are increasingly being driven by memory of a friend and colleague, Ted Parker. Ted birders and bird conservationists, must be was an inspirational birder, ornithologist and tempered by the fact that , and thus the conservation advocate. He was an enthusiastic birds that we so covet, are being destroyed at an supporter of the aims and ideals of the Neotropical alarming rate right across the Neotropics. Our Bird Club, and would have been proud and happy challenge is to ensure that some of the time we had he witnessed the revolution that has occurred spend watching and studying birds can benefit in Neotropical birding and conservation. This their conservation: new distributional records, revolution has been effectively documented in the insights into a species’ ecology, evidence of pages of this journal. Cotinga has summarised the loss at an important site, rediscoveries, new descriptions of almost 100 new taxa, and species, confirmation that a species still survives at highlighted the rediscovery of others, including a site, or simply just visiting a site that might be such enigmatic species as reliant on your entry fee to ensure its protection— Calyptura cristata and Cherry-throated these are all important contributions that we can Nemosia rourei. Importantly, some of these species make and that can be communicated through the are being described and rediscovered by birders, pages of Cotinga. and certainly it is the advances in birding, and Wishing you all the very best of Neotropical what birding/birders can offer the ornithological birds and birding. and conservation community that are being reflected in Cotinga’s pages. The first issue of David C. Wege Cotinga contained a short piece about the Senior Editor Cotinga rediscovery of the Black-breasted Americas Program Manager, Eriocnemis nigrivestis from the slopes of Pichincha BirdLife International volcano, Ecuador. This

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Cotinga 22 Club News

Urgent: please consider helping NBC efficient methods used today. He was also Following the decision of a number of long- instrumental in soliciting many contributions standing members to retire from NBC Council, for the early issues of Cotinga, something which there is now an urgent need to recruit new is now no longer necessary. At the same time, members onto the Club’s Council. In particular Council also takes the opportunity to welcome we are looking for individuals to assume the George Wallace (Vice President for following roles: International Programs at the American Bird Conservancy), who is taking over from David as Secretary—to coordinate Club activities and Senior Editor. Council looks forward to working respond to member enquiries. with George over the next few years and wishes Bookkeeper—to maintain the Club’s financial both him and David well. books, bank receipts etc. Council meetings take place 3–4 times per Questionnaire annum and are generally held in close NBC is undertaking a survey to establish your proximity to central London. The current views of the Club and Cotinga, and to assist us council have a wide range of professional in identifying potential improvements that backgrounds (being a ornithologist is certainly could be made. Your contribution is very not a prerequisite!), so if you share a fascination important to us, as it will help us understand for Neotropical birds and are willing to help the what members want from Cotinga and how we Club, please contact one its officers, either by e- can best provide that. The questionnaire is also mail or the UK mailing address. open to non-members to complete, as all opinions are welcome. Please complete the Other assistance sought questionnaire within the next two months. If The Club also wishes to hear from members you have access to the Internet, please complete who might be able to help in other ways, for the questionnaire online (follow the links from example: www.neotropicalbirdclub.org), as this will permit the results to be more readily analysed. Speakers—the Club is always looking for The questionnaire is available in English, speakers for future AGMs; volunteers would be Spanish and Portugese, and can be requested greatly appreciated. by e-mail from webmaster@neotropicalbird- Rutland—the Rutland Bird Fair is one of the club.org. If you return the questionnaire by post Club’s most important fundraising events (see please send it to the address at the end of the below) and Council would be grateful for any questionnaire. The results of the questionnaire help and assistance ín running the stand. will be published in Cotinga.

Subscription rates Nota de importancia para todos los Due to increased costs, the Club has reluctantly miembros decided that subscription rates will be El Comité del Club de Aves Neotropical está increased with effect from 2005. Details of the llevando a cabo una prospección para establecer new rates can be found on the enclosed renewal qué mejoras se le pueden hacer a Cotinga.Su form. contribución a la misma nos es muy importante, ya que nos ayudará a comprender Change in the Senior Editor of Cotinga mejor lo que los miembros esperan de Cotinga, At the end of 2004, David Wege is standing y cómo podemos proveerlo. En este número de down as Senior Editor of Cotinga,a role he has Cotinga usted encontrará un cuestionario. Por held since the Club’s inception. Council would favor complételo durante los próximos dos like to thank David for the vital contribution he meses. El cuestionario está abierto también has made to NBC. David also deserves much of para ser completado por aquellos que no son the credit for helping to ensure that Cotinga is miembros, ya que todas las opiniones son now such a widely respected journal. With Jeff bienvenidas. Blincow, David produced the first issue of Si tiene acceso a internet, por favor Cotinga in 1994, a very different process to the complete el cuestionario en línea

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Cotinga 22 Club News

(www. neotropicalbirdclub.org), dado que ésto Payments by credit card ayudará al Comité a analizar los reusltados. El Members who wish to renew their subscription cuestionario se encuentra disponible en Inglés, by credit card are requested to do so via the Español y Portugués, y se puede pedir una versión Club’s website, as this considerably reduces electrónica a [email protected]. administration time and the Club’s bank Si está devolviendo el cuestionario por correo charges are also lower. convencional, por favor envíelo a la dirección que se encuentra al final del mismo. Los resultados del Gift Aid cuestionario serán publicados en Cotinga. Members who pay UK tax can ensure their membership is worth an additional 28% to the Anúncio importante para todos os Club by completing a gift aid form. The Club membros would be grateful if members who have Cotinga O Comitê do Neotropical Bird Club está sent to an address outside the UK but pay UK realizando uma pesquisa para estabelecer quais tax would request a copy of this form. as melhorias que podem ser feitas na Cotinga. Sua contribuição é muito importante para nós, Donations pois ela nos ajudará a compreender o que os We would like to acknowledge the following membros querem na Cotinga,e como nos members who have made separate donations poderemos atendê-los da melhor maneira since the publication of Cotinga 21: Paul possível. Neste número da Cotinga você Bryant, Mitchell A. Byrd, John Caddick, Lionel encontrará um questionário. Por favor, Cartlidge, Matthew Cassetta, D. G. Chelmick, preencha-o dentro do prazo máximo de dois Terence Cooper, Shaun P. Coyle, Christian meses. Este questionário também está aberto Dietzen, Dick Filby, Miss E. Forbes, Alberto para os não associados, uma vez que todas as Garcia Rios, Tony Gibbs, Malcolm Green, Alan opiniões serão bem vindas. Hands, Matthew Hiron, Ole Lemming, Se você tem acesso a Internet, então por Christine Lynn, Allan Mee, Mike Milton, favor, preencha o questionário on-line Martyn Overton, Dr Clive Peat, Dennis Vrettos, (www.neotropicalbirdclub.org), já que isto Dr Bruno Walther, M. J. Whitehouse, Andrew ajudará o comitê a analisar os resultados. O Whittaker and Jeanie B. Wright. questionário está disponível em inglês, português e espanhol, e uma versão em correio Promoting the Club eletrônico pode ser solicitada ao A membership flyer is available and the Club is [email protected]. Se você foi seeking members to distribute it. Anyone able enviar o questionário pelo correio convencional, to help the Club recruit new members in this então por favor, utilize o endereço listado ao fim way should contact the Secretary. do questionário. Os resultados serão publicados na Cotinga. Change of Address All members are requested to ensure that they NBC website inform the Club if they change their address. The Club is pleased to announce the introduc- Due to increasing costs, the Club is unable to tion of a new feature on the NBC website that supply replacement copies of Cotinga if we are permits visitors view video sequences of birds not notified of a change of address. In such from across the Neotropics. Species featured to cases the member will have to purchase the date include Scarlet-banded Barbet Capito missing issue(s). wallacei, Crescent-faced Gralliricula lineifrons, Ocellated Acropternis Club Merchandise orthonyx and Harpy Eagle Harpia harpyja. The Club has the following items for sale: Follow the links from the home page •T-shirts—available in either grey or (www.neotropicalbirdclub.org). The Club is bleached cotton (pale cream). M, L and XL, keen to expand this part of the website and featuring (as featured on members with relevant footage are encouraged the cover of Cotinga 12) design. to send this to the Club’s UK address. We can •Field T-shirts—available in dark green or currently accept footage either in electronic navy blue with Club logo on chest. format (i.e. on a CD or DVD) or on Digital 8 or • Stickers—either window or surface types. Hi 8 tapes. • Lapel badges. All items are available from the Club address. Please state clearly which colours and sizes are required. More details can be found on

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Cotinga 22 Club News

the Club’s website. Please note that we have Corporate Members limited quantities of some items so it would be NBC wishes to thank the following Corporate helpful to include a second choice with the Members for 2004: Birdquest, Bird Songs . Badges and stickers can be sent post free International, Canopy Tower, Limosa Holidays, if mailed with copies of Cotinga or other Lynx Edicions, Sierra Llorona, Sunbird, merchandise. Subbuteo, The Travelling Naturalist, WildSounds and Wildwings. New NBC Checklist for Venezuela The Club’s new Venezuela checklist was E-mail addresses published in 2003 and follows the style of the Secretary Trinidad & Tobago checklist published several [email protected] years ago. This lists all species in Hilty (2003) Treasurer in a 56-page, 15-column format and aims to [email protected] encourage visiting birdwatchers to keep Chair structured notes that can be easily photocopied [email protected] and sent to the relevant recording authority Membership following their trip. This list is the second in a [email protected] series of lists for Neotropical countries that the Club plans to produce over the next few years. Advance notice of the 2005 AGM The list sells for UK£5.00 or US$8.00 per copy, The Club AGM will be held on 29 May 2005 at plus postage (UK: £1; Europe UK£1.50; Rest of Cley Village Hall, Cley, Norfolk, UK. Details of World UK£2/US$3) and can be obtained from the meeting will be included with Cotinga 23 the Sales Officer at the Club address. The and on the website. Trinidad & Tobago list is still available (UK£4.00 or US$6.00, and postage rates as Adverts on the Club website above). Visitors to the Club website may notice a number of discrete adverts. This is a source of Trip reports funds for the Club, as every time the links are The Club has an archive of trip reports followed the Club receives a payment from generously provided by members. It will be Google. possible to download many of these from the Club website shortly. Recently the Club was given the rights to the highly regarded trip reports produced by the late Bruce Forrester. The following titles are also available directly from the Club. Members wishing to purchase these should write to one of the NBC addresses. Please note that postage is additional.

Birding Venezuela 1995...UK£11/US$16.50 (A) Birding Costa Rica 1996..UK£11/US$16.50 (A) Birding Bolivia 1997 ...... UK£13/US$21 (B) Birding Ecuador 1998–99 ....UK£20/US$30 (B) Birding Peru 2000...... UK£15/US$22.50 (B) Birding Dominican Republic & Puerto Rico 1999...... UK£5/US$7.50 (A) Birding Eastern Brazil (update to Birding Brazil) ..UK£10/US$15 (B)

Postage rates UK ...... Rate A: £1.00, Rate B: £2.00 Europe...... Rate A: £2.50, Rate B: £4.00 RoW ...... Rate A:US$5.00, Rate B:US$8.00 ...... (or sterling equivalent)

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Cotinga 22

Advertise with NBC in Cotinga

Black-and-white advertising rates:

Full page $165 £100 14.5 x 20.5 cm Half page $100 £60 14.5 x 10 cm Quarter page $65 £40 7 x 10 cm

Colour advertising is also available in conjunction with fully acknowledged colour sponsorship. Space is also available for short classified advertisements at $5 (£3) per line (average 6 words) with boxed entries (minimum 2cm2) at $16 (£10) per cm2, $2 (£1) extra per insertion. Copy deadlines are 15 December (February issue) and 15 June (August issue). Please post early to avoid disappointment.

All advertisements must be sent prepaid (cheques made payable to the Neotropical Bird Club) as camera-ready copy or film to:

Advertising Officer, The Neotropical Bird Club, c/o The Lodge, Sandy, Bedfordshire, SG19 2DL, UK

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Cotinga 22

Neotropical Bird Club Conservation Awards

Andean forest was found in these catchments, and New Awards • Nuevos Premios • it seems unlikely that they support viable Novos Prêmios populations of . This means that although the population is somewhat larger than Council is delighted to announce five new thought previously, the range is considerably Conservation Awards for the first part of 2004. smaller, possibly only some 200 km2. Conservation Other potentially suitable applications remain recommendations are currently being prepared, under consideration, and successful candidates will and are expected to include the creation of a reserve be announced in the next Cotinga. Council in the Cotacajes Valley and the implementation of a continues to seek collaborative ventures with co- community programme to promote sustainable sponsors—to the benefit of in the forest use in the area. Neotropics. We particularly thank Swarovski Optik plc for their generous sponsorship of the 2004 Evaluación de la conservación del hábitat NBC–Swarovski Conservation Award, which we existente para el Trepadorcito Boliviano announce here. henricae El Consejo les otorgó el Premio de Conservación El Consejo se complace en anunciar cinco nuevos CAN–Swarovski 2004, de $2.400 a Ebert Rocha y Premios de Conservación otorgados durante la Juan Carlos Crespo, quienes están trabajando con primera parte de 2004. Aún están siendo consider- Armonía (el socio de BirdLife en Bolivia), para adas otras solicitudes que pueden ser apropiadas, y avanzar en la conservación del Trepadorcito los candidatos que resulten elegidos serán Boliviano Cranioleuca henricae a través de la inves- anunciados en la próxima Cotinga. El Consejo está tigación y evaluación de prioridad de sitios procurando expandir estas colaboraciones en potenciales para una reserva. Esta especie En asociación—para el beneficio de la conservación de Peligro, recientemente descubierta y registrada en las aves en el Neotrópico. Estamos muy agradecidos tres cuencas, habita una región vulnerable, donde a Swarovski Optik plc por el generoso patrocinio del no se encuentra protegida. Ebert y Juan han estado Premio de Conservación CAN–Swarovski 2004, que realizando prospecciones para localizar poblaciones es anunciado aquí. actuales y hábitat apropiado para identificar sitios con el mayor potencial como reservas para la Conservation assessment of extant habitat for conservación de la especie. Bolivian Spinetail Cranioleuca henricae Los resultados preliminares sugieren que C. Council has allocated the 2004 NBC–Swarovski henricae está más ampliamente distribuido de lo Conservation Award, of US$2,400, to Ebert Rocha que se creía, con poblaciones a lo largo de la cuenca and Juan Carlos Crespo, who are working with del río Cotacajes (donde regularmente resultó una Armonía (BirdLife Partner in Bolivia) to further the de las especies más comunes, con apenas menos de conservation of Bolivian Spinetail Cranioleuca dos machos cantando por ha). De todas maneras, la henricae through the investigation and prioritisa- especie no pudo ser re-localizada en dos sitios en las tion of potential reserve sites. This Endangered cuencas de los ríos La Paz y Consata donde había species, only recently discovered and known from sido registrada. Se encontró poco bosque seco inter- three river basins, occurs in a vulnerable habitat, of andino remanente en estas cuencas, y parece which none is currently protected. Ebert and Juan improbable que sustenten poblaciones viables de la have been undertaking survey work to locate extant especie. Esto significa que si bien la población es populations and suitable habitat with the greatest algo mayor de lo que se creía, el rango de distribu- potential as reserves for conserving the species. ción de la especie es bastante menor, posiblemente Preliminary results suggest that Bolivian Spinetail de apenas unos 200 km2. Actualmente se están is more widespread than previously thought, with preparando recomendaciones de conservación, y se populations throughout the río Cotacajes basin espera que contengan recomendaciones para la (where it was often among the commonest species, creación de una reserva en el valle de Cotacajes, y with almost two singing males per ha). However, la implementación de un programa comunitario the species was not found at two sites within the río para promover el uso sustentable del bosque en el La Paz and río Consata basins where it had been área. recorded previously. Little remaining dry inter-

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Cotinga 22 Conservation Awards

Genetic structure and distribution of the Sierra Ecología de comunidades y conservación de Madre Sparrow ensambles de aves en las zonas áridas del norte de Council has made a Conservation Award of US$800 Venezuela to Adán Oliveras de Ita for his work on the Sierra El Consejo otorgó un Premio de Conservación de Madre Sparrow Xenospiza baileyi, an Endangered $700 a Adriana Rodríguez-Ferraro, una ornitóloga Mexican endemic. Adán will complement his earlier venezolana de la Universidad de Missouri–St Louis, work on this species, which was also supported by quien va a comparar la riqueza de especies, NBC and reported in Cotinga (15: 43–47, 2001). He composición de las comunidades y abundancia de will assess the species’ distribution in Jalisco and aves en las zonas áridas del norte de Venezuela. El Durango, where it has not been recorded since 1951. Area de Endemismo para Aves asociada a esta zona Adán will then determine the genetic structure of es poco conocida e inadecuadamente representada the remnant populations of the species, on the basis en el sistema nacional de áreas protegidas. Las of DNA analysis. Finally, he will use these data to especies foco del estudio incluyen una Vulnerable develop recommendations for conservation action (Cotorra Cabeciamarilla Amazona barbadensis) y for the species. una Casi-amenazada (Titirijí de Maracaibo Todirostrum viridanum). Adriana también Estructura genética y distribución del Gorrión examinará los patrones de diversidad genética entre Serrano y dentro de las poblaciones de aves de distribución El Consejo ha otorgado un Premio de Conservación restringida y especialistas de hábitat a lo largo de la de $800 a Adán Oliveras de Ita, para su trabajo región. Finalmente, ela identificará las característi- sobre el Gorrión Serrano Xenospiza baileyi,un cas del hábitat que determinan el uso de hábitat por endemismo mexicano En Peligro. Adán va a comple- las mismas. mentar su trabajo previo sobre esta especie, que había sido patrocinado por el CAN y publicado en Birds of north-east Manabí, Ecuador Cotinga (15: 43–47, 2001). El evaluará la distribu- Council has made a Conservation Award of US$580 ción de la especie en Jalisco y Durango, donde no ha to Luis Alberto Madrid Jiménez for his work to sido registrado desde 1951. Adán determinará locate nests of Grey-backed Hawk Leucopternis entonces la estructura genética de las poblaciones occidentalis. This species is an Endangered raptor, remanentes de la especie, con base en el análisis de endemic to Tumbesia—the region to be sponsored ADN. Finalmente, tomará los datos que junte sobre by the British Fair 2004. The nest of genética, población y ecología, para desarrollar L. occidentalis has yet to be described; Luis will also recomendaciones para acciones conservacionistas gather data on the species’ behaviour and ecology. para la especie. Aves del nordeste de Manabí, Ecuador Community ecology and conservation of bird El Consejo le ha otorgado un Premio de assemblages in arid zones of northern Venezuela Conservación de $580 a Luis Alberto Madrid Council has given a Conservation Award of US$700 Jiménez para su trabajo de localización de nidos de to Adriana Rodríguez-Ferraro, a Venezuelan Gavilán Dorsigris Leucopternis occidentalis. Esta ornithologist at the University of Missouri–St especie de rapaz se encuentra En Peligro, y es Louis, who will compare species-richness, endémica de Tumbes—la región que será community composition and abundance of birds in patrocinada por la British Birdwatching Fair 2004. Venezuelan arid zones. The associated Endemic El nido de L. occidentalis aún no ha sido descrito; Bird Area is poorly known and very inadequately Luis también recabará datos sobre la ecología y represented in the country’s protected areas system. comportamiento de la especie. Target species include one Vulnerable (Yellow- shouldered Amazon Amazona barbadensis) and one of the Andean Condor in Near-Threatened (Maracaibo Tody-flycatcher extreme southern Patagonian Todirostrum viridanum) species. Adriana will also Council has given a Conservation Award of US$370 examine patterns of genetic diversity within and to Alejandro Kusch Schwarzenberg for field work on between populations of restricted-range and the Near-Threatened (and increasingly scarce) habitat-specialist birds across their distributional Andean Condor Vultur gryphus. Alejandro aims to range in Venezuela. Finally, she will identify habitat locate and map roosting sites in the Magallanes characteristics that determine habitat use by region of Chile, to assess its ecological requirements restricted-range and habitat-specialist species. in the area, and to determine the species’ population status in the region.

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Cotinga 22 Conservation Awards

Estatus de conservación del Cóndor Andino en el revisar las investigaciones y programas de conser- extremo sur de la Patagonia chilena vación regionales, así como identificar los vacíos El Consejo premió a Alejandro Kusch existentes, para preparar recomendaciones para la Schwarzenberg con un Premio de Conservación de conservación de la especie. El taller, que fue $370 para realizar su trabajo de campo sobre el considerado un éxito por los participantes, reunió Cóndor Andino Vultur gryphus, una especie Casi- por primera vez a los investigadores de Ecuador y amenazada y cada vez más escasa. Alejandro Costa Rica que trabajan con Ara ambigua.Se pretende localizar y mapear los sitios de descanso comenzarán trabajos que continúen éste a en la Región de Magallanes, Chile, para estimar sus comienzos de 2004 para establecer el Grupo de requerimientos ecológicos en estas áreas, y Trabajo de Guacamayo Verde Mayor en Ecuador, determinar el estatus de la población de la especie para implementar las recomendaciones contenidas en la región. en el plan de acción. James Lowen E-mail: [email protected] Updates • Novedades • Atualidades

Great Green Macaw workshop, Ecuador NBC Council awarded a grant to Eric von Horstman of the Fundación Pro-Bosque to organise a workshop to assist conservation of the threatened Great Green Macaw Ara ambigua in Ecuador. Just 20–30 pairs of the critically endangered A. a. guayaquilensis remain in two separate populations in Ecuador’s coastal . The Workshop for the Elaboration of the National Conservation Strategy for the Great Green Macaw was held on 25–26 September 2003. The primary objective was to bring together Ecuadorian and international experts to review advances in investi- gations and regional conservation programmes, as well as identify gaps and ultimately prepare recom- mendations for the species’ conservation. The workshop, deemed a success by its participants, brought together, for the first time, researchers working with Ara ambigua in Ecuador and Costa Rica. Follow-up work will commence in early 2004 to establish the Great Green Macaw Working Group in Ecuador and to implement recommendations contained in the action plan.

Taller sobre el Guacamayo Verde Mayor, Ecuador El Consejo del CAN premió con una beca a Eric von Horstman de la Fundacion Pro-Bosque, para organizar un taller para asistir en la conservación del Guacamayo Verde Mayor Ara ambigua, una especie amenazada en Ecuador. Apenas 20–30 parejas de la subespecie A. a. guayaquilensis, críti- camente amenazada, restan en dos poblaciones separadas en los bosques costeros secos y húmedos del Ecuador. El Taller para la Elaboración de la Estrategia Nacional de Conservación del Guacamayo Verde Mayor fue llevado a cabo el 25–26 septiembre 2003. El objetivo principal fue juntar a 22 expertos ecuatorianos e internacionales para

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Cotinga 22 Neotropical News

GENERAL amongst local people. Protected Species Recovery Plan, further areas affected are the Parque del conservation NGOs are being Threatened birds update Este and Jaragua National Park included in the project and will BirdLife International, with the (part of a UNESCO Biosphere help in identifying specific sites in assistance of their international Reserve), which harbours ten need of protection actions (private network of contacts, has completed endemic birds, the largest reserves, departmental parks, their update of the conservation breeding colony of White-crowned conservation concessions); a nest status of the world’s bird species. Pigeon Columba leucocephala and site creation programme; direct Threatened birds of the world 2004 the ’s largest Sooty actions to stop illegal macaw builds on the book of the same Sterna fuscata colony. In addition, traffickers; habitat improvement name, developing a number of the Important Bird Areas and globally projects; nest site monitoring and themes initiated in 2000. The important sites for Hawksbill ecological student information should be available on Turtle (Critically Endangered) and projects. BirdLife’s website West Indian Manatee are directly • Asociación Armonía Update (http://www.birdlife.net/datazone/i threatened. For more information (February 2004) ndex.html) by the time this or to help, please contact: Yvonne • World Birdwatch 26 (1): 10 volume of Cotinga is published. Arias, Grupo Jaragua (March 2004) • BirdLife International in litt. ([email protected]) or Rosa June 2004 Lamelas, Consorcio Ambiental Ash-breasted Tit-tyrant and Dominicano ([email protected]). Royal Cinclodes conservation Threatened birds of the • BirdLife International, 28 May 04 programme Americas on CD-ROM • http://www.birdlife.org/news/ New sites have been discovered for BirdLife International has news/2004/04/dominican_pa.html Royal Cinclodes Cinclodes launched a CD-ROM version of aricomae (Critically Endangered) Threatened birds of the and Ash-breasted Tit-tyrant Americas, in Spanish. The CDs are Anairetes alpinus (Endangered), available upon request, providing BOLIVIA and a conservation effort is postage is covered, which on seeking to build local support for average, works out to US$10 for Blue-throated Macaw project Polylepis forest conservation. 1–3 CDs and US$15 for 4–5. New surveys conducted in the Meanwhile, the previously known Limited copies (400) are still Llanos de Mojos, Beni, have found location for these species of available, on a strictly first-come, small numbers of the Critically Choquetonga has been listed as an first-served basis. Copies can be Endangered Blue-throated Macaw Important Bird Area, and plans requested by writing to BirdLife Ara glaucogularis.Other are being elaborated for site- International in Cambridge (visit threatened species encountered specific actions there. www.birdlife.org.uk) or through were Crowned Eagle • Asociación Armonía Update [email protected]. Harpyhaliaetus coronatus, Rufous- (February 2004) •Ian Davidson in litt.June 2004 faced Crake Laterallus xenopterus, Cock-tailed Tyrant Alectrurus First-ever biological expedition CARIBBEAN tricolor and Black-masked Finch to the Cordillera Mosetenes Coryphaspiza melanotis. The An international team of 11 DOMINICAN REPUBLIC project, a joint initiative of biologists became the first people Asociación Armonía and to survey the 130-km-long lower National Parks system Fundación Loro Parque, is Yungas cordillera in Cochabamba. threatened by new law continuing with the strategy of The cordillera is isolated from the A new law, awaiting signature by population monitoring, working rest of the , and is the government and the president with landowners and international uninhabited and inhospitable. of the Dominican Republic, would campaigning to save the macaw Work was conducted at open the country’s national parks from capture for the illegal 1,200–1,600 m, although the up to development. Not only will cagebird trade, but has also taken highest peaks reach 2,050 m. The the law lead to the destruction of on a new direction in opening an unique and endangered ecosystems, especially office in Trinidad to improve communities differed markedly coastal wetlands, but also it seems public awareness and widen the from expectations, based on that the development initiatives scope of the project’s educational geographically similar parts of concerned possess little support programme. As part of the 2003 Cochabamba, with some taxa rare

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or absent and others exceptionally in the bid to save the remaining 61 [email protected] or by telephone common, including the Vulnerable km2 of Atlantic Forest at Murici, on +58-212-9922812 and 9923268. Bolivian Recurvebill Simoxenops and the 15 globally threatened • Chris Sharpe in litt. March 2004 striatus and Yungas Antwren birds inhabiting the area. grisea, or diverse. • World Birdwatch 26 (2): 4 (June Second Venezuelan Important • Asociación Armonía Update 2004) Bird Areas (IBAs) workshop (February 2004) The Second Venezuelan Important FALKLAND ISLANDS Bird Areas (IBAs) workshop took Other Asociación Armonía place in mid-2003 with support species projects Rockhopper population from BirdLife International and Armonía (the BirdLife partner in crash Conservation International. The Bolivia) is undertaking or planning Surveys of the Steeple Jason workshop sought to build on the a range of projects on threatened Island population of Rockhopper first IBA workshop (November species and their habitats, all of Penguin Eudyptes chrysocome 2000) by confirming the sites that which aim to strengthen local, (Vulnerable) in 2003 revealed that had been proposed and producing national and international support the population has declined to preliminary lists of their avifauna. for their conservation. Projects 30,000 breeding pairs from 89,000 According to Miguel Lentino, the include: a study of the Titicaca in 2000. Algal poisoning and Venezuelan Audubon Society’s IBA Flightless Rollandia possibly changes in ocean currents Project Director, the IBA microptera on Lake Titicaca, in and food availability are thought Programme is focusing on areas Peru and Bolivia, which has to be to blame. where IBAs would coincide with confirmed threats previously • World Birdwatch 26 (2): 5 (June existing protected areas. Most of identified (see Cotinga 21: 10), but 2004) Venezuela’s endemic or restricted- produced higher than expected range species occur within at least population estimates; a habitat UK ratification of the ACAP one protected area, with only three and population assessment of The UK has ratified the Agreement species—Barred Wattled Crax globulosa on the Conservation of Crypturellus casiquiare, on the lower río Beni, and its and Petrels (ACAP), which, because Softtail cherriei and conservation through development the Falkland Islands, British Táchira Emerald of local support for a hunting ban Antarctic Territory, South Georgia distans—found entirely outside and protected area; a community- and South Sandwich Islands are protected areas. The proposed based education, exchange and covered, will help to protect IBAs cover most of Venezuela’s ecotourism development in the Southern Ocean, biomes with 18 in the programme, together with although Tristan da Cunha has not region, 16 in coastal systems, nine population, behavioural, feeding been included. Furthermore, the in the Andean Cordillera, 11 in the and migration studies of Red- Falkland’s Islands government has Central Coastal Cordillera, three fronted Macaw Ara rubrogenys;a formally adopted National Plans of in the Caripe–Paria Highlands, 11 conservation assessment of Action to reduce the by- in the llanos and Orinoco Delta, Bolivian Spinetail Cranioleuca catch of fishing in its waters. and five in the Maracaibo basin. henricae (see Conservation • World Birdwatch 26 (2): 8 (June • Chris Sharpe in litt. March 2004 Awards); surveys seeking new 2004) localities for an undescribed Venezuelan Audubon Society Phyllomyias tyrannulet in the VENEZUELA Avethón (Birdathon / Bird Race) lower Yungas of dpto. La Paz; The seventh annual Venezuelan population and habitat preferences Venezuelan Audubon Society Audubon Society Avethón took of Cochabamba Mountain-finch reactivated place on 26 October 2003 as part of Poospiza garleppi; designation of Traditionally the country’s most BirdLife International’s World Bird 23 Important Bird Areas (IBAs) active bird conservation organisa- Festival. Twenty-two people took and 22 potential IBAs, with tion and national partner of part and the five teams spent the further field assessments of the BirdLife International, the morning birding at sites around potential IBAs planned. Contact Venezuelan Audubon Society Caracas. The winning team racked Armonía at [email protected] (SCAV) had been relatively up a total of 89 species. for more information. inactive for over a year. The • Chris Sharpe in litt. March 2004 • Asociación Armonía Update Society’s Extraordinary General (February 2004) Assembly of 20 November 2003, in Training workshop for bird guides Caracas, voted in a new Board of The first Training Course for BRAZIL Directors. The new board hopes to Wildlife Guides has been held in revive SCAV through field outings, the Rancho Grande Biological Murici pact projects, courses for beginning Station, Henri Pittier National A new pact, signed by conservation birders and by assisting visiting Park. The course was sponsored by NGOs in Brazil, including BirdLife birdwatchers. SCAV can be Fundacite Aragua, Rancho Grande International, is an important step contacted by e-mail at Biological Station, the Museum of

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the Institute for Agricultural at its tip, was complete and feet of gas resources in the Norte Zoology of the Universidad Central partially surfaced. The road is de Paria fields, in the Caribbean de Venezuela (MIZA-UCV), and the expected to increase shifting north of the peninsula, which will Venezuelan Parks Institute cultivation of cash crops and be piped over the mountains to a (Inparques). The emphasis of this therefore increase the already plant on its south shore. course was on promoting worrying rate of . Conservationists are concerned birdwatching as an activity within that the project may try to pass Henri Pittier National Park and … and by liquefied natural gas the pipeline through the already its surroundings. Some 30 local extraction highly threatened Paria Peninsula participants attended courses At the same time the Marsical National Park. So far oil given by Carlos Verea of the UCV Sucre (formerly Cristóbal Colón) companies have not disclosed their and Chris Sharpe of Provita. liquefied natural gas (LNG) project plans, nor has an Environmental • Chris Sharpe in litt. March 2004 was reactivated through a Impact Assessment been carried framework agreement signed on 9 out. The project is scheduled to Paria Peninsula threatened by June 2003. The $2.7 billion project begin production in 2007. deforestation after road is a partnership between PDV Gas • Chris Sharpe in litt. March 2004 completed… (60% ownership), Shell (30%), The Paria Peninsula, home to five Mitsubishi (8%) and other endemic species, at least 13 Venezuelan organisations (2%). endemic subspecies and four Marsical Sucre is projected to globally threatened species, is in produce 4.7 million tonnes of LNG further trouble. By mid-2003 the per year, mostly for export to the new road connecting Güiria, at the USA. Shell say the project involves base of the peninsula, to Macuro, the extraction of 10 trillion cubic

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Cotinga 22 Taxonomic Round-up

Using Wedge-billed of endemism as determined by remaining taxa fell into two to establish area mitochondrial DNA sequence that correspond to the relationships for Neotropical variation within the Wedge- subfamilies and birds billed Woodcreeper (Aves: . Within Anserinae, Studies of the distribution of Dendrocolaptidae: and Anser clustered South American taxa have Glyphorynchus spirurus) Mol. together, whereas Coscoroba, identified several areas of Phyl. & Evol. 24: 153–167. Cygnus and Cereopsis formed a endemism that may have relatively weak , of which contributed to historical diversi- Whither lies the Saw-billed Cygnus diverged first. Five fication in the region. A recent ? clades were clearly recognisable attempt to construct a phylogeny Saw-billed Hermit Ramphodon among the Anatinae: (i) the of Wedge-billed Woodcreeper naevius is a distinctive and Anatini, with and Glyphorynchus spirurus attractive endemic Lophonetta; (ii) the Aythyini, populations, using mtDNA to south-east Brazil. Its affinities with Aythya and ; (iii) the sequence data, has been used to have long been pondered. A Cairinini, with Cairina and ; evaluate hypotheses concerning recent analysis of the (iv) the , with Mergus, area-relationships, two based on cytochrome-b gene of this species Bucephala, Melanitta, phylogenetic studies of morpho- and 11 other Callonetta, Somateria and logical characters in birds and suggests that Ramphodon is a Clangula;and (v) the Tadornini, three based on parsimony sister taxon of the hermit with Tadorna, Chloephaga and analysis of endemism in birds subfamily (Phaethornithinae), Alopochen. The Tadornini and primates. The analyses which evolved fairly recently. It apparently diverged early from recovered two phylogenetic is most closely related to the the Anatinae, then the Mergini, hypotheses that differed in the genera Glaucis and Threnetes, and thereafter a large group placement of one of the areas. and given the presence of comprising the Anatini, Aythyini, Within each of the areas of another, similar, species endemic Cairinini, and two isolated endemism, the two analyses to eastern Brazil, Hook-billed genera, and support the same clades. Neither Hermit Glaucis dohrnii, the Marmaronetta. Whereas morpho- of the phylogenetic hypotheses authors suggest that this region logical analysis had effectively for Glyphorynchus exactly might have been an important resolved the split between matches any of the five previous locus for radiation within this Anatinae and Anserinae, and hypotheses of area-relationships, group of hummingbirds. had defined some of the clades, although ambiguous support • Bleiweiss, R., Hendrickson, S. L., the precise composition of the exists for one of them. Five Berres, M. E., Willis, Y. O. & clades is different when morpho- areas—, Willis, E. O. (2003) Affinities of logical and molecular data are Inambari, Napo, Pará and the Saw-billed Hermit compared. Rondonia—are supported as (Ramphodon naevius) • Donne-Gousse, C., Laudet, V. & composites with component taxa determined by cytochrome-b Hanni, C. (2002) A molecular having phylogenetic affinities sequence data. Wilson Bull. 115: phylogeny of based with more than one area. The 1–10. on mitochondrial DNA analysis. data reported by Marks et al. Mol. Phyl. & Evol. 23: 339–356. also indicated high levels of A ‘new’ phylogeny for the sequence divergence within Anseriformes Further perspectives on the Glyphorynchus. Genetic breaks An mtDNA study of the phyloge- relationship between Red- within Glyphorynchus are only netic relationships among backed and Puna Hawks partially congruent with Anseriformes has sequenced Red-backed Buteo polyosoma and subspecific . The data from 45 waterfowl repre- Puna Hawks B. poecilochrous regional sampling design senting 24 genera, permitting have enjoyed a somewhat ensured that this study was the the construction of an apparently chequered taxonomic history, largest-scale genetic assay of a robust phylogeny of the group with the most recently published widespread Neotropical avian and comparing it with existing analysis, by Farquhar (in 1998), taxon thus far published to date. phylogenies based on morpholog- concluding that the two are ical or molecular data. • Marks, B. D., Hackett, S. J. & conspecific under the name and Dendrocygna were identified Capparella, A. P. (2002) polyosoma.A new study, as early offshoots of the Historical relationships among however, has now re-emphasised Neotropical lowland forest areas Anseriformes. All of the the differences between the taxa,

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namely in morphs, use Reconstructing a phylogeny for Neotropical latitudes. Lanyon of habitats, diet, hunting the tree hypothesised two major clades in techniques, movements and The nine members of the the group based on differences in breeding behaviour, and have recently been syringeal morphology and concluded that the two represent compared using DNA sequences proposed relationships among different species under the of six mitochondrial genes. The genera using a combination of Biological Species Concept. authors of the study were able to morphological, behavioural, and • Cabot, J. & de Vries, J. (2003) reconstruct a phylogeny for the allozyme characters. The mtDNA Buteo polyosoma and Buteo genus consisting of two main data strongly supported Lanyon’s poecilochrous are two distinct clades: South American (Tumbes division of genera into two species. Bull. Brit. Orn. Club T. stolzmanni, White- clades. In addition, the molecular 123: 190–207. winged Swallow T. albiventris, and non-molecular data both White-rumped Swallow T. suggested that Aphanotriccus New World Fringillidae under leucorrhoa, T. and Lathrotriccus are sister taxa, the phylogenetic spotlight meyeni) and Central American with Cnemotriccus basal to these Systematic studies of species ( Swallow T. genera. Species of Aphanotriccus, Fringillidae have long been albilinea), and North American Lathrotriccus and Cnemotriccus problematic due to their and Caribbean species (Tree form a clade that exploits a apparent recent and explosive Swallow T. bicolor,Violet-green distinctive nesting niche relative diversification. The authors of a Swallow T. thalassina, Golden to other members of the recent study have presented Swallow T. euchrysea, Bahama group. Within the phylogenetic hypotheses of 44 Swallow T. cyaneoviridis). second major clade, the mtDNA fringillids that represent the Genetic distances between sequences supported a recon- overall diversity of the . species suggested that struction based on allozymes of Fringillidae and its Tachycineta is a relatively old that places Contopus and two constituent subfamilies, group compared to other New Empidonax as sister taxa. This Fringillinae and Emberizinae, World swallow genera. The most hypothesis contradicts that of was consistently supported with interesting biogeographic Lanyon, who allied Contopus the exceptions of Peucedramus discovery was the close relation- with Mitrephanes on the basis of being placed outside of ship between Caribbean and similarity in foraging mode. Fringillinae and Euphonia being western North American taxa, a Genera in the Empidonax group placed within Fringillinae connection that occurs in other are members of a larger instead of within Emberizinae. groups of swallows and swifts. assemblage that radiated in Within Emberizinae, Thraupini • Whittingham, L. A., Slikas, B., South America. (), Cardinalini (cardinals Winkler, D. W. & Sheldon, F. H. • Cicero, C. & Johnson, N. K. and grosbeaks) and Emberizini (2002) Phylogeny of the tree (2002) Phylogeny and character (New World sparrows) did not swallow genus, Tachycineta in the Empidonax form separate monophyletic (Aves: Hirundinidae), by group of tyrant flycatchers (Aves: groups. The results of the study Bayesian analysis of mitochondr- Tyrannidae): a test of W. E. indicated that Emberizinae ial DNA sequences. Mol. Phyl. & Lanyon’s hypothesis using consists of three clades, each Evol. 22: 430–441. mtDNA sequences. Mol. Phyl. & with a different overall Evol. 22: 289–302. geographical distribution. DNA sequencing techniques Several taxa traditionally used to test earlier hypotheses considered members of Thraupini concerning relationships among fall outside of the thraupine different tyrant-flycatcher clade, including the only North genera American genus, Piranga. Carlo Cicero and the late Ned Consequently, the Thraupine Johnson sequenced mitochondr- clade includes only Neotropical ial DNA for 26 taxa to test W. E. species. Increasing evidence Lanyon’s hypothesis of inter- suggests that Fringillidae does generic relationships and not actually possess a New World character evolution in the origin. Empidonax group of tyrant- •Yuri, T. & Mindell, D. P. (2002) flycatchers. Of these, three Molecular phylogenetic analysis genera (Empidonax, Contopus of Fringillidae, “New World nine- and Sayornis) occupy north primaried oscines” (Aves: temperate habitats for breeding, Passeriformes). Mol. Phyl. & while the remaining genera Evol. 23: 229–243. (Mitrephanes, Cnemotriccus, Aphanotriccus, Lathrotriccus and Xenotriccus) are restricted to

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Cotinga 22

An update on status of birds from Isla Cozumel, Mexico Steve N. G. Howell Cotinga 22 (2004): 15–19

Este artículo se basa en 20 días de trabajo de campo (entre octubre y enero, 1993–2003) en la Isla Cozumel, Quintana Roo, México. Se discute el estatus de 29 especies, incluyendo varias que no habían sido reportadas previamente en la isla. Cuatro taxa endémicos han sufrido reducciones marcadas en sus poblaciones desde comienzos de los 1990s: Buteo magnirostris gracilis, Centurus p. pygmaeus, Centurus aurifrons leei y Piranga roseogularis cozumelae. Se discuten las posibles razones de estos declinios. La lista de aves de Cozumel ahora suma 224 especies.

The island of Cozumel lies only c.20 km off the Webb8), as well as migration timing and the north-east coast of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula but occurrence of non-breeding landbirds whose status has a distinctive avifauna, including several on Cozumel is unresolved. endemic species and subspecies plus a number of Caribbean birds rare on the Mexican mainland. Black-bellied Whistling- Dendrocygna Howell & Webb8 listed 203 species recorded from autumnalis Cozumel and noted another 35 species of hypothet- Seven at a pond on the east side of the island on 24 ical occurrence, mainly those known from January 2002 were unmistakeable: large reddish- specimens with doubtful locality data. Subsequent brown with long necks, bright red bills, grey observations have confirmed the occurrence of four faces with white eye-rings, and black bellies to hypotheticals—Ruby-throated Hummingbird undertail-coverts. In addition, HGS and M. Pérez Archilochus colubris, Louisiana Waterthrush Villafaña observed seven on Cozumel on 30 April Seiurus motacilla, Dickcissel Spiza americana, and 2001, and D. Klauber (pers. comm.) saw two Bobolink Dolichonyx oryzivorus2,10. Recent families on 8 August 2001 (one with two young, the documented additions to the Cozumel avifauna are other with 5–6 young). American White Pelican Pelecanus erythrorhyn- chos, Mourning Warbler Oporornis philadelphia American Anas americana and Blue-black Grassquit Volatinia jacarina2,11,13. A female with a flock of 65 Blue-winged Teal A. Macouzet & Escalante11 also reported Orange- discors on 1 December 2000. The wigeon was an crowned Warbler Vermivora celata, Nashville overall reddish-brown dabbling duck, larger and Warbler V. ruficapilla, Canada Warbler Wilsonia stockier than the teal with a steep forehead, canadensis, and Red-throated -tanager Habia relatively short, black-tipped bluish bill, and a fuscicauda, but I question the identification of at greyish head and upper neck. least the first (23 September would be a notably early date for an Orange-crowned Warbler in Roadside Hawk Buteo magnirostris gracilis eastern Mexico—and even in the eastern USA3) This very distinctive endemic subspecies (or and last of these species (a sedentary resident on species?) was fairly common on Cozumel in the the mainland). Howell6 also listed recent records of 1980s and at least through October 1993, but it has Rose-throated Becard Pachyramphus aglaiae, since undergone a marked decline. I have seen none Warbling Vireo Vireo gilvus, Grey-crowned in seven visits, 1996–2003, and Gómez de Silva4 Yellowthroat Chamaethlypis poliocephala and (pers. comm.) detected only one in four days of Lesser Goldfinch Carduelis psaltria, and most intensive birding during late April 2001 and none recently Gómez de Silva4 reported two species not in annual mid-November visits (of 2–5 days’ listed by Howell & Webb8: Couch’s Kingbird duration) in 1998–2001. Reasons for the recent Tyrannus couchii and Grey Kingbird T. dominicen- declines of this taxon and the two (see sis. below) are unclear. This paper is based on 20 days of fieldwork during autumn and winter: 14–16 October 1993, Short-tailed Hawk Buteo brachypterus 3–5 December 1996, 3–4 December 1998, 2–3 Although noted as resident by Howell & Webb8, this December 1999 (with Dan Lane), 30 November–1 species may simply be a wanderer from the December 2000 (with Rich Hoyer), 5–8 December mainland (as appears true of other raptors such as 2001, 24–25 January 2002 (with David Yee) and 4–5 Hook-billed Kite Chondrohierax uncinatus and Bat December 2003. Additional records of several Falcon Falco rufigularis). I have seen none in recent species were contributed by Héctor Gómez de Silva trips and the only records known to me are single (HGS) based on visits in 1998–2001, and by Rich light-morph birds on 15 February 1982 (pers. obs.), Hoyer from a visit on 5–6 December 2002. I discuss 3 November 198316 and 12 May 1986 (pers. obs.). the status of 29 species (12 not listed by Howell &

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Cotinga 22 Bird observations from Isla Cozumel, Mexico

Mangrove Coccyzus minor Eastern Pewee Contopus virens Whilst perhaps a breeding resident, as listed by An abundant transient on Cozumel, at least in Howell & Webb8, my only records from Cozumel are autumn, with a notably late record of an immature from mid-October to early December, during which studied on 4 December 1997 (J. Dunn pers. comm.). time they are often conspicuous and fairly common. This bird was an obvious Contopus with a long primary projection, fresh plumage (indicating an Northern Potoo Nyctibius jamaicensis immature) and an orange-based mandible tipped One observed at night on 24 January 2002. This dark. The upperparts were washed greenish, the unmistakeable bird was found while spotlighting wingbars rather bold and whitish, and the for nightjars. It was observed at 30-m range, with underparts whitish with a greyish wash across the binoculars and telescope, perched on a bare snag breast and onto the flanks. Relative to Tropical from which it made flycatching sallies. Although Pewee it was greener dorsally and paler ventrally, known from the Greater Antilles and the Honduras with long wings. Relative to Western Pewee C. Bay Islands1, have not been reported sordidulus (unknown in the Yucatán Peninsula) it previously from Cozumel. was greener dorsally and whiter ventrally.

Green-breasted Mango Anthracothorax prevostii Tropical Pewee Contopus cinereus Listed as resident in Appendix D of Howell & This species, partially migratory on the mainland8, Webb8, but correctly described as a summer is a rare visitor to Cozumel: my only record is one resident in the species accounts. Mangos arrive on seen and heard on 1 December 2000. Cozumel in mid to late January and are common through at least mid-July, but I have not seen any Yucatán Flycatcher Myiarchus yucatanensis lanyoni on the island in October–December. Although described as a resident taxon15,I have not found Yucatán Flycatchers on Cozumel during late Yucatán Woodpecker Centurus p. pygmaeus and November to January visits, and Gómez de Silva4 Golden-fronted Woodpecker Centurus aurifrons (pers. comm.) detected none in four days of leei intensive birding during late April 2001 or in These endemic subspecies appear to have annual mid-November visits in 1998–2001. Further undergone a marked decline on Cozumel in the work is needed to elucidate the present status on 1990s (cf. Roadside Hawk). In the 1980s and early Cozumel. 1990s (at least through October 1993) both were common and conspicuous (with 5–10 of each seen Dusky-capped Flycatcher Myiarchus tuberculifer easily in a morning). However, in 1996–2003 I platyrhynchus found both uncommon to rare, recording only 2–10 Although described as an endemic taxon absent in Yucatán Woodpeckers and 0–2 Golden-fronted winter15,I saw and heard small numbers on Woodpeckers in 2–3 days birding. The experience of Cozumel in early-December 1996, 2001 and 2003 HGS with these species on Cozumel in recent years (but detected none in 1998, 1999, 2000, or 2002). is similar, and he has detected no Golden-fronted These may have been lingering migrants (see Woodpeckers (pers. comm.). Discussion). Brown-crested Flycatchers M. tyrannulus are common summer residents on Yellow-bellied Elaenia Elaenia flavogaster Cozumel but absent in winter, as reported by This distinctive species were heard (but not seen) Parkes15. near El Cedral on 7 December 2001. On 5 December 2003, one was studied carefully and heard in Couch’s Kingbird Tyrannus couchii brushy fields near El Cedral: a typical Elaenia, Two seen and heard (including calls and dawn song small bill dull flesh-pink below and tipped dark; tape-recorded by Dan Lane, deposited at Louisiana bushy crest with conspicuous whitish base; and State University) on the south side of San Miguel, overall paler than Caribbean Elaenia, with paler on 2–3 December 1999, one giving dawn song at the wingbars and brighter yellow belly. Calls heard airport, on 8 December 2001, and one calling near were a burry breahr and bickering chatters, quite El Cedral, on 5 December 2003. These records and distinct from those of Caribbean Elaenia E. small numbers in April 20014 suggest this vocally martinica. This species exhibits some winter conspicuous species may have recently colonised withdrawal from the Atlantic slope of Mexico in Cozumel. winter8, and the Cozumel records may represent wanderers from the mainland, although habitat on Grey-collared Becard Pachyramphus major the island appears suitable for a breeding A female found by Dan Lane at El Cedral, on 3 population. December 1999, was presumably a vagrant. This uncommon species appears to be an altitudinal migrant in montane Mexico8 and it may be that the

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lowland Yucatán population is also prone to Grey-crowned Yellowthroat Chamaethlypis wandering in the non-breeding season. poliocephala Howell & Webb8 considered this species’ occurrence Rose-throated Becard Pachyramphus aglaiae on Cozumel unconfirmed but its presence has since I observed an adult male and female associating at been verified (first recorded on 5 October 1991; a fruiting tree on the south side of San Miguel, on 4 HGS). It is, in fact, locally fairly common in suitable December 1996. Presumably these were wanderers habitat, e.g. up to ten (singing and calling) seen in from the mainland and they constitute a first a morning in scrubby fields near El Cedral on island record. They were large-headed and thick- numerous occasions (pers. obs., HGS). That Grey- billed birds slightly smaller and more compact than crowned Yellowthroats were unrecorded by earlier nearby Tropical Kingbirds Tyrannus melancholi- visitors suggests the species may have colonised cus. The male was overall medium-pale grey, darker Cozumel as a result of increased forest clearing. above, with a rose throat patch; the female was greyish above with a darker cap, and pale buff Wilson’s Warbler Wilsonia pusilla collar and underparts. Singles at the sewage treatment plant on 30 November 2000 and El Cedral on 6 December 2001 Warbling Vireo Vireo gilvus are the first records from Cozumel. Both were dull- One studied in a fruiting tree on the south side of coloured individuals typical of the nominate San Miguel, on 16 October 1993, is a first island eastern race, which is a rare winter visitor to the record, and appears to be the first record for the Yucatán Peninsula. They were olive above (with no Yucatán Peninsula8,9. It was smaller and smaller wingbars or tail-spots) and dull yellow below with a billed than a nearby Yucatán Vireo V. magister (but large dark beady eye, cocked tail and dry chek call. longer billed and longer tailed than Philadelphia The 2000 bird was a female, the 2001 bird a male Vireo V. philadelphia) with a more diffuse face with a black cap. pattern lacking any distinct dark eyestripe. The crown and upperparts were fairly uniform olive- Rose-throated Tanager Piranga roseogularis grey with a broad pale supercilium and large dark This is another species that was fairly common on eye; the underparts were dingy whitish with a faint Cozumel in the 1980s and early 1990s but which lemon wash on the flanks; the bill was mostly pale HGS and I have not found in 1996–2003 visits. fleshy grey with a dark culmen, the legs blue-grey. However, Hoyer reported one on 5 December 2002. This is a drab but distinctive bird with which I am More work is needed to determine its present very familiar. The relatively long and mostly pale status on Cozumel. bill together with the diffuse face pattern suggested an Eastern Warbling Vireo V. g. gilvus17. Blue-black Grassquit Volatinia jacarina Overlooked by Howell & Webb8, small numbers Blue-grey Gnatcatcher Polioptila caerulea occur locally (perhaps irregularly?) on Cozumel. cozumelae Recent records at El Cedral include five on 4 This endemic taxon remains common on the island. December 1996, 20+ on 2 December 1999, 4–5 on 29 It differs in appearance and voice from mainland April 2001 (HGS), 2–3 on 6 December 2001, 4–5 on Blue-grey Gnatcatchers (looking more like Bahama 24 January 2002, and one on 5 December 2003. birds) and may be specifically distinct. Grasshopper Sparrow Ammodramus savannarum Swainson’s Catharus ustulatus Recent records from Cozumel are few and suggest it Singles at El Cedral on 7 December 2001 and 5 may be a transient migrant rather than a winter December 2002 were presumably late migrants, as visitor, contra Howell & Webb8: 2–3 at El Cedral on this species does not winter in the Yucatán 1 December 2000 (pers. obs.), one in an abandoned Peninsula8. field beside the cross-island highway on 4 December 1998 (HGS), and one at the sewage Palm Warbler Dendroica palmarum treatment plant on 30 April 20014. A Yellow Palm Warbler D. p. paludicola was at the sewage treatment plant on 3 December 1998. Savannah Sparrow Passerculus sandwichensis Whilst the nominate race of Palm Warbler is a Singles were at San Gervasio, on 4 December 1998 common winter visitor to coastal Yucatán and (HGS) and at El Cedral, on 3 December 1999. The Cozumel, the striking race paludicola is notably latter was a small sparrow with a small pinkish rare in Mexico, with only one previous record: from bill, slightly cleft tail, faint yellow supraloral wash Isla Holbox on 15 April 19877. and high tsip call note; the brownish upperparts and whitish underparts were strongly dark- streaked. Savannah Sparrows are regular winter

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migrants to the Yucatán Peninsula but there 15 Palm Warblers, 30 American Redstarts appear to be no previous records from Cozumel. Setophaga ruticilla, six Black-and-white Warblers Mniotilta varia, ten Ovenbirds Seiurus aurocapilla, Lincoln’s Sparrow Melospiza lincolnii and 20 Common Yellowthroats Geothlypis trichas. Two were at El Cedral, on 3 December 1999, and In late-January 2002, numbers over the entire one there on 1 December 2000. These were fairly island were notably lower: at El Cedral I noted small, slender sparrows with a relatively slender seven Northern Parulas, one Magnolia, five Black- greyish bill, fairly long, slightly graduated tail and throated Green and six Palm Warblers, 15 ‘smacking’ tsk! call. The grey-brown upperparts American Redstarts, three Black-and-white were dark-streaked with no distinct wingbars, and Warblers, one and five Common a grey supercilium, and the malar and finely dark- Yellowthroats—only 10–50% of early-December streaked chest were washed buff. These were numbers. This suggests that migration on Cozumel probably transients and represent the first records extends regularly into early December. Records of from Cozumel. species that do not winter in the region from Cozumel (Eastern Pewee and Swainson’s Thrush) Lesser Goldfinch Carduelis psaltria and from the Yucatán mainland (Yellow-billed Although not reported prior to the 1990s8, small Cuckoo Coccyzus americanus at Río Lagartos, numbers of Lesser Goldfinches are now seen Yucatán, on 1 December 1998; Chimney Swift regularly around El Cedral. Most adult males are Chaetura pelagica at Felipe Carrillo Puerto, black-backed but an occasional green-backed male Quintana Roo, on 27 November 2000; pers. obs.) is seen, which suggests that some (all?) may have support the premise that birds are still on passage derived from escaped cage birds. Recent records at this season. include 15 on 15 October 1993, six on 3 December The eight species of uncertain status are an 1996, 8+ on 3 December 1998, eight on 2 December interesting mix. Yellow-bellied Elaenia and 1999, 15+ on 30 November 2000, 15 on 6 December Tropical Pewee are partial migrants on the 2001, six on 24 January 2002 and 4–5 December mainland, and as such they could be expected to 2003. wander to Cozumel occasionally, as occurs with Red-legged Cyanerpes cyaneus. The Discussion same may be true for Couch’s Kingbird and the two The species accounts here include ten breeding , which are frugivores that wander in search residents or presumed residents, two breeding of food. Mangrove Cuckoo is an enigmatic species in species of irregular or seasonal occurrence (Black- much of its range and more data are needed for bellied Whistling-Duck and Green-breasted Cozumel, where it may breed. Short-tailed Hawk Mango), nine Neotropical migrants and eight and Northern Potoo may be irregular (non- species of uncertain status. Of the residents, four breeding?) visitors, but again more data are needed. endemic taxa appear to have undergone marked The Cozumel list stood at 160 species in 1926, population declines since the early 1990s: Roadside when Griscom5 noted that ‘our knowledge of the Hawk, Yucatán Woodpecker, Golden-fronted avifauna of Cozumel Island is fairly complete.’ The Woodpecker and Rose-throated Tanager. The Cozumel list is now at least 224 species but much present status of Yucatán Flycatcher is also remains to be learned about the breeding status, uncertain. Whilst Cozumel Thrasher Toxostoma seasonal occurrence, migration timing and inter- guttatum numbers declined abruptly following annual abundance of most species recorded from Hurricane Gilbert in September 19988,12, the above this interesting island. Observers visiting Cozumel species remained fairly numerous through at least can assist by keeping careful notes of species October 1993, and only appear to have declined recorded. Studies are needed to ascertain the since then. Of possible relevance is that the Boa breeding status and possible causes for decline of a constrictor, apparently introduced to Cozumel in number of species formerly common on the island. 1971, has become common on the island and could be impacting native bird populations14. Acknowledgements The nine Neotropical migrants occurred mostly I thank the observers listed in the introduction, Jon L. during migration, although some may have been Dunn, Héctor Gómez de Silva, Rich Hoyer, Dave Klauber, and numerous tour participants for sharing wintering on the island. Of note were the markedly their observations and for company in the field; and larger numbers of migrants during early-December Will Russell and WINGS for enabling me to visit visits than during late January (with comparable Cozumel. Dan Lane kindly furnished documentary field coverage of sites). For example, mean daily sketches included here. The manuscript benefited from maxima for selected warblers around El Cedral in thoughtful review by Héctor Gómez de Silva. early December (over five years) were 19 Northern Parulas Parula americana, 12 Magnolia Dendroica magnolia, 17 Black-throated Green D. virens and

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References 11. Macouzet, T. M. & Escalante P., P. (2000) New 1. American Ornithologists’ Union (1998) Check-list records of birds for Cozumel Island, Mexico. of North American birds. Seventh edn. Southwestern Nat. 45: 79–81. Washington DC: American Ornithologists’ 12. Macouzet F., T. & Escalante P., P. (2001) Registros Union. del Cuitlacoche de Cozumel Toxostoma guttatum 2. Buffa, J. & Morris, C. (1999) Occurrence of four posteriores al Huracán Gilberto. Cotinga 15: Neotropical migrants on Cozumel Island, Mexico. 32–33. Cotinga 11: 14–16. 13. Macouzet, T. M., Escalante P., P. & Sosa, M. V. 3. Dunn, J. L. & Garrett, K. L. (1997) A field guide to (1999) Two notable records of birds for Cozumel warblers of North America.Boston, Mass: Island, Quintana Roo, Mexico. Cotinga 12: 79–80. Houghton Mifflin. 14. Martinez M., M. A. & Cuaron, A. D. (1999) Boa 4. Gómez de Silva, H. (2001) Mexico regional reports. constrictor, an introduced predator threatening North Amer. Birds 55: 361–365. the endemic fauna on Cozumel Island, Mexico. 5. Griscom, L. (1926) The ornithological results of the Biodiver. & Conserv.8:957–963. Mason-Spinden expedition to Yucatan. Amer. 15. Parkes, K. C. (1982) Parallel geographic variation Mus. Novit. 236: 1–13. in three Myiarchus flycatchers in the Yucatan 6. Howell, S. N. G. (1999) A bird-finding guide to Peninsula and adjacent areas (Aves: Mexico. Ithaca, NY: Cornell University Press. Tyrannidae). Ann. Carnegie Mus. 51: 1–16. 7. Howell, S. N. G. & Johnston, S. (1992) The birds of 16. Paulson, D. (1986) Bird records from the Yucatan Isla Holbox, Mexico. Euphonia 2: 1–18. Peninsula, Tabasco, and Chiapas, Mexico. Burke 8. Howell, S. N. G. & Webb, S. (1995) A guide to the Contrib. Anthropology & Nat. Hist.3:1–9. birds of Mexico and northern Central America. 17. Pyle, P. (1997) Identification guide to North Oxford: Oxford University Press. American birds,1.Bolinas, CA: Slate Creek 9. Mackinnon, H. B. (1992) Check-list of the birds of Press. the Yucatan Peninsula. Amigos de Sian Ka’an, A.C. Steve N. G. Howell 10. Macouzet, T. M. & Escalante P., P. (2000) First Point Reyes Bird Observatory, 4990 Shoreline record of Louisiana Waterthrush (Seiurus Highway, Stinson Beach, California 94970, USA. motacilla) from Cozumel Island, Quintana Roo, Mexico. Orn. Neotrop. 11: 183–184.

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Cotinga 22

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Cotinga 22

First report of cavity-nesting in Elfin-woods Warbler Dendroica angelae at Maricao State Forest, Puerto Rico Rafael Rodríguez-Mojica Cotinga 22 (2004): 21–23

Se reporta sobre un nido de Reinita de Bosque Enano Dendrioca angelae hallado dentro de una cavidad natural de árbol Colorado Cyrilla recemiflora en 21 de mayo de 2003 en el bosque de Maricao, región oeste-central de Puerto Rico. La Reinita de Bosque Enano es considerada Vulnerable a extinción y solo se han estudiado con detenimiento dos nidos previamente hallados en el 1992 en Maricao. Las implicaciones de un anidaje en una cavidad en la biología reproductiva de esta especie necesita de mas futuras observaciones en sus hábitos de anidaje. No se conocen de otras Dendroica que hayan usado este sustrato para anidar, por lo que el hallazgo es significativo.

The Elfin-woods Warbler Dendroica angelae is population was estimated at no more than 300 endemic to Puerto Rico, where it inhabits wet pairs and is classified as Vulnerable by BirdLife forest, rain forest and lower montane zones in the International3. Cordillera Central4. Discovered in 1971 at Luquillo The only published detailed observations on the Forest in northern Puerto Rico by Cameron & nesting biology of the Elfins-wood Warbler were Angela Kepler8,a second disjunct population was made by Arroyo-Vazquez on two nests found in discovered a year later at Maricao State Forest in aerial leaf litter at Maricao State Forest in 19921. the west-central region of the island7. The Raffaele et al.9 describe the nest of the species as ‘a

Figures 1–2. Dendoica angelae, Maricao State Forest, Puerto Rico, 24 May 2003 (Rafael Rodríguez- Mojica)

Figures 3–4. Nest of Elfin Woods Warbler Dendoica angelae, Maricao State Forest, Puerto Rico, 24 May 2003 (Rafael Rodríguez-Mojica)

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compact cup, usually close to trunk and well-hidden ground and 6 cm deep from the lower border of the among epiphytes of a small tree.’ It lays 2–3 dull irregular rim of the stump. The inside diameter of white , moderately to heavily spotted reddish the cavity at the level of the nest was 6.5 cm. The brown, concentrated at the broad end, in nest structure consisted of a tightly woven cup of March–June. There are no other publications on the fine plant fibres with dry leaves on its outside. breeding biology of the species10. Discussion Observations Previously described nests of Elfin-woods Warbler On 24 May 2003 at 10h00 in an abandoned at Maricao State Forest were two cup nests placed camping area at Maricao State Forest (18o09’N in aerial leaf litter within a Podocarpus-mixed 66o59’W; 742 m), I observed a pair of Elfin-woods hardwood association in the subtropical lower Warblers carrying to a vertical rotten stump montane zone during April and May1. Climate at of a Cyrilla racemiflora. The begging calls of the the site is dry and cool in December–May and nestlings were heard immediately the warblers humid and hot for the rest of the year, with mean entered the cavity, confirming the presence of an annual precipitation of 2,326 mm and temperature active nest. I stayed in the area from 10h00 to of 21.7oC. Aerial leaf litter consists of dead Cecropia 15h00 documenting the new discovery with peltata leaves that fall from canopy trees and photographs and video. Both members of the pair become entangled or caught among vegetation or brought insects to the nest at intervals of 3–5 vines. Reasons for the concealed location were minutes and, twice, at intervals of c.10 minutes. In hypothesised to be: reduced exposure to predation 36 minutes I observed a total of 12 deliveries of and reduced exposure to rain and sun, as the prey to the nest, or one item per three minutes. On Cecropia leaves provided cover for the nests. Among several occasions, one or both warblers vocalised well-known avian nest predators at Maricao State with contact chip notes on arriving in the area, Forest include Sharp-shinned Hawk Accipiter circling the tree stump in the branches of nearby striatus,Pearly-eyed Thrasher Margarops fuscatus trees, approached furtively and then flew to the rim and two species of endemic snakes2,5. Because of the of the stump before entering the cavity. On location of the nests described by Arroyo-Vazquez1 departing the nest the warblers remained in the it was impossible to gather data on clutch size and area for c.1 minute, maintaining close proximity to the number of fledglings. each other and at times singing. On a few occasions The nesting event described here differs from one bird waited for the other to deliver food at the previous data in several important aspects. First, rim before entering with prey, which consisted of the nest was placed inside a rotten tree stump, gathered in nearby forest or from the quite different from the others. No other Dendroica immediately adjacent trees. Once, I observed two species are known to nest in cavities, either in the prey items carried simultaneously by a member of tropics or in North America6,9. Second, the tree was the pair. in man-modified habitat with no ground cover and To examine the nest interior and document a sparse canopy, therefore making the nest highly clutch status and size I mounted my video camera visible and exposed to the elements. Third, the to the end of a c.10 m-long dry stick. With brood size of four nestlings was unexpected as this and the remote control of the camera I usually other West Indian Dendroica have clutch managed to record that there were four fledglings sizes of 2–39. in the rotten wood cavity. Factors that may have played in the selection of I visited the area three days later and found no nest location are speculative, given the extreme activity at the nest. Again using the camera I was paucity of previous data, but one factor may have able to confirm that the fledglings had left the nest. been avoidance of forest predators. Additional I found neither member of the pair and nor could I factors may have been the result of intraspecific detect the begging calls of the young in the territorial competition for nesting sites in nearby immediate area. The rotten tree stump and the nest forest or a previously unknown tendency for cavity- were collected for further study. nesting when appropriate opportunities are The size of the area where the nest was found is available. 0.5 ha2 and is separated from nearby forest by a 2 m-wide trail. The area is reforested, mainly with Conclusions Pinus caribaea on its west side but also with native Further observations of the species’ breeding trees such as Callophylum brasiliense, Cyrilla ecology are required in order to determine the racemiflora and Magnolia portoricensis. Trees had significance of the present report. The perceived been planted c.1–2 m and there is no understorey plasticity in respect to nest-site selection may be vegetation. The trees provide sparse canopy cover. indicative of the Elfin-woods Warbler’s adaptability Mean diameter at breast height averaged 7 cm and to different habitat conditions within its range, the mean height was c.8 m. The nest was 7 m above where nest concealment is of paramount

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Cotinga 22 First report of cavity-nesting in Elfin-woods Warbler

importance. In this respect cavity-nesting may be 6. Dunn, J. & Garrett, K. (1997) A field guide to the considered a strategy for avoiding predation. It is warblers of North America. Boston: Houghton also noteworthy that four fledglings were found Mifflin. within such a closely confined space. The discovery 7. Gochfeld, M., Hill, D. O. & Tudor, G. (1973) A of a Dendroica nest in a tree cavity is significant as second population of the recently described Elfin no congeners have been reported using such a site. Woods Warbler and other bird records from the West Indies. Carib. J. Sci. 13: 231–235. 8. Kepler, C. B. & Parkes, K. C. (1972) A new species Acknowledgements of warbler (Parulidae) from Puerto Rico. Auk 89: I want to thank my sister Maricarmen for accompany- 1–18. ing me in the field. I am also grateful to Jim Wiley for 9. Raffaele, H., Wiley, J., Garrido, O., Keith, A. & revising the manuscript and Dr Delannoy for his Raffaele, J. (1998) A guide to the birds of the West comments on my report. Indies. Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press. References 10. Wiley, J. (2000) A bibliography of in the 1. Arroyo-Vazquez, B. (1992) Observations of the West Indies. Proc. Western Found. Vert. Zool. 7: breeding biology of the Elfin Woods Warbler. 1–817. Wilson Bull. 104: 362–365. 2. Biaggi, V. (1997) Las aves de Puerto Rico.Ed.Univ. Rafael Rodríguez-Mojica Puerto Rico: Rio Piedras. Del Río # 21 North, Mayaguez, Puerto Rico 00680. E- 3. BirdLife International (2000) Threatened birds of mail: [email protected]. the world.Cambridge, UK: BirdLife International & Barcelona: Lynx Edicions. 4. Cruz, A. & Delannoy, C. A. (1984) Ecology of the Elfin Woods Warbler (Dendroica angelae). I. Distribution, habitat usage, and population densities. Carib. J. Sci. 20: 89–96. 5. Delannoy, C. A. & Cruz, A. (1988) Breeding biology of the Puerto Rican Sharp-shinned Hawk. Auk 105: 649–662.

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Cotinga 22

Observations on the vocalisations and behaviour of Black-chested Tyrant Taeniotriccus andrei from the Serra dos Carajás, Pará, Brazil Kevin J. Zimmer and Andrew Whittaker Cotinga 22 (2004): 24–29

Apresentamos as primeiras observações detalhadas da utilização de habitat e comportamento de forrageamento de Taeniotriccus andrei, acompanhadas pelos primeiros sonogramas publicados de suas vocalizações, com base em observações de dez casais na Floresta Nacional de Carajás, Pará, Brasil. Examinamos a escassa literatura sobre Taeniotriccus e fizemos um resumo de sua área de distribuição a partir dos registros anteriores. Constatamos que localmente Taeniotriccus andrei é razoavelmente comum, mas facilmente escapa a detecção, no sub-bosque rico em cipós da região de Carajás. Nossas gravações de sua voz e as observações de suas caraterísticas morfológicas apoiam a retenção do gênero monotípico Taeniotriccus e fornecem argumentos contra sua fusão com Poecilotriccus.

The Black-chested Tyrant Taeniotriccus andrei is a Venezuela and northern and south-east Amazonian distinctive and strikingly plumaged tyrannid that Brazil, with one record (published without details) has remained an enigma to Neotropical ornitholo- from Suriname4. The holotype was collected at La gists and birders. It occurs locally in eastern Prisión, on the right bank of the lower río Caura

Figure 1. Male Black-chested Tyrant Taeniotriccus andrei Figure 2. Male Black-chested Tyrant Taeniotriccus andrei, with its crest erected. Floresta Nacional de Carajás, Pará, Floresta Nacional de Carajás, Pará, Brazil (Kevin J. Brazil (Kevin J. Zimmer) Zimmer)

Figure 3. Male Black-chested Tyrant Taeniotriccus andrei, Figure 4. Male Black-chested Tyrant Taeniotriccus andrei, Floresta Nacional de Carajás, Pará, Brazil (Kevin J. Zimmer). Floresta Nacional de Carajás, Pará, Brazil (Kevin J. Zimmer).

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(Bolívar, Venezuela) near Trincheras2, but most On the morning of 1 February, and again on the Venezuelan records are from swampy mangrove- afternoon of 5 February, we worked the floodplain and-palm-dominated tidal forests in the Orinoco forest along the rio Parauapebas (elevation 190 m), Delta of Delta Amacuro7. There are additional near the locality of the previous sight record by Venezuelan specimens from the middle río Caura Minns et al., but without success. We returned to and the upper río Paragua, and a 13 March 1995 the area at dawn on 7 February and, this time, split sight record from Caño Colorado, Monagas8. North up to cover more ground. Shortly after 07h00, KJZ of the Amazon in Brazil, the species is known from followed an unfamiliar, frog-like note through the northern Amazonas and Roraima, and south of the várzea understorey to near the river edge, and soon Amazon from various sites in Pará and northern succeeded in locating a pair of Taeniotriccus, and in Maranhão12,14. Specimens at the Museu Paraense tape-recording the male. We believe this to Emílio Goeldi, Belém, Brazil (MPEG), are from the represent the first tape-recording of the species. He left bank of the rio Tocantins at Tucurui, Pará immediately radioed AW, and upon his arrival on (MPEG 32814); the right bank of the Tocantins at the scene, we continued to follow the birds, Igarape Saude, 20 km from Jacundá, Pará (MPEG obtaining extensive video and audio recordings in 36108), Peixe-Boi, Pará (MPEG 50995, 50996), the process. Continued search, this time using tape Ananindeua, Pará (MPEG 29628, 29629) and the playback, yielded a second territory of Taeniotriccus rio Gurupi, Maranhão (MPEG 34823); the right along the river. bank of the Tapajós at Novo Fazenda, Jaburu, Now familiar with the voice, on the following Santarém, Pará (MPEG 49278); and from the Serra day, whilst working terra firme forest (267 m dos Carajás, in the highlands of southeastern Pará, elevation) more than 35 km from the rio on the left bank of the Rio Xingu (MPEG 37287). We Parauapebas, we encountered another know of published specimen records from the Taeniotriccus, this one in a completely different following additional sites south of the Amazon: habitat. Over the next few days we conducted Belém14, the left bank of the rio Tapajós at Itaituba, systematic searches of several km of roadside Pará14,15; and the right bank of the lower rio Xingu, forest, and succeeded in locating an additional upriver from Altamira, Pará5. seven territories, bringing our total for the region to Despite the number of localities from which the ten. In the process, we obtained audio and video species has been collected, Taeniotriccus has proven recordings of several individuals, made extensive remarkably elusive in life. Aside from the afore- observations on habitat, and more limited observa- mentioned specimen records, we are aware of only a tions of foraging behaviour. few additional sight records from Brazil: a female seen in 1996 by A. Aleixo at Pinkaiti, within the Habitat Kayapó Indigenous Reserve, between the rio Xingu Published information on habitat utilised by and the rio Araguaia, Pará1; and a male seen by J. Brazilian populations of Taeniotriccus is limited. Minns, G. M. Kirwan and D. Beadle along the rio Novaes10 cited a mist-netted pair of Taeniotriccus Parauapebas in the Serra dos Carajás, Pará in taken from secondary woodland near Belém, Brazil. February 2001 (J. Minns pers. comm.). J. F. Pacheco G. Graves and R. Zusi, whilst working the east bank (in Sick 1997) stated, without elaboration, that the of the lower rio Xingu, reported (in Ridgely & species ‘also exists in the region of the Serra dos Tudor12) that Taeniotriccus was ‘occasionally Carajás in the formations of the lowlands of the observed in bamboo-dominated understory in terra rivers Parauapebas and Itacaiúnas’.14 Graves & firme forest, and in rank understory of Cecropia- Zusi12 also reported occasional encounters at their dominated second-growth near the river’. The aforementioned collecting site near Altamira. Monagas, Venezuela, sight record was of an Almost nothing is known of the natural history of individual ‘in bamboo within várzea forest, below the species, and there has been only a single the canopy in an area where bamboo was admixed published qualitative description of any of its vocal- with a small, former banana plantation’8. isations7,8. The first two territories that we found were in In February 2003, we conducted a ten-day várzea forest along the rio Parauapebas. In each avifaunal survey in the Floresta Nacional de case, the birds were never more than 20 m from the Carajás, Pará, Brazil. We were aware of two river edge, and remained mostly within shaded, previous records of Taeniotriccus from the Carajás dense cover. The first pair foraged mostly within region: the specimen collected at ‘Carajás Serra dense vine thickets and tangles in a partially Norte, Manganes’ and housed at the MPEG (MPEG flooded area adjacent to the riverbank. They did not 37287); and the aforementioned sight record from venture into the more open várzea understorey. All the rio Parauapebas. Given this precedent, finding subsequent territories that we located were in low- Taeniotriccus was high on our list of objectives in lying terra firme forest many km from any major our exploration of the Carajás region. river. This forest was not typical upland forest: portions of it were somewhat swampy, and the

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canopy was broken and fairly low, with an fashion than that witnessed by KJZ. The black abundance of Cecropia, palms and small of the nape and neck-sides, and to a lesser leguminous trees and shrubs, with trees of the extent the rufous feathers comprising the ear- family Lecythidaceae (seemingly mostly Brazil nut coverts, were all clearly elongate compared to Bertholletia excelsa trees) as the primary scattered surrounding feathers, and appeared as a lax ruff or emergents. This forest is probably best charac- mane surrounding the back and sides of the head terised as vine forest11. The broken canopy and (slight indication of this can be seen in Figs. 2–3). general absence of large trees are probably anthro- These feathers clearly had some erectile capability, pogenic in origin. The remainder of the forest is in as evidenced by individuals that would partially a seemingly arrested state of perpetual second elevate the feathers, momentarily lifting and growth, perhaps partially maintained by the lush separating them from the feathers of the back and blanket of vines that overtop most of the smaller lower neck. It is not hard to imagine that these trees. Within this forest, Taeniotriccus was found feathers, along with those of the median crown, almost exclusively in dense, shrubby borders with could be erected as a ruff that encircles the face. abundant vines and often with bamboo intermixed. We also noted that the feathers immediately The species seemed to prefer settings in which light above and in front of the eyes appeared to be longer penetration allowed dense foliage and vine tangles and somewhat bristly compared to surrounding to form a fairly solid canopy that shaded open feathers, and that they seemed to project outward perches below. In several cases, territories of somewhat, almost like an eye comb. This had the Taeniotriccus coincided with those of Peruvian effect of making the relatively large eyes appear Recurvebill Simoxenops ucayalae, Chestnut- even larger (Figs. 1–4). At our request, R. Restall crowned Foliage-gleaner Automolus rufipileatus, examined ten specimens of Taeniotriccus held in Black-and-white Tody-tyrant Poecilotriccus the Colección Ornitologia Phelps, Caracas, capitalis, and/or Rose-breasted Chat Granatellus Venezuela (COP), and found the feathers above the pelzelni. eyes of all specimens to be as described here. Restall described the effect as ‘if you splayed the Morphology and geographic variation fingers of your hand as widely as you could, with We noted some aspects of morphology that have not the tips forming a three-quarter circle [= around attracted comment in the popular (i.e. field guide) the eye].’ Similar bristly feathers in the loral region literature. Most noteworthy is the nature of the of some other sally-gleaning species (e.g. crest. KJZ observed and videotaped a male that Thamnomanes antshrikes, Speckled Antshrike momentarily erected its crest following tape Xenornis setifrons and Pale-faced Skutchia playback (Fig. 1). The feathers involved were the borbae) have been hypothesised as protecting the elongate black and rufous feathers of the median eye of the bird as it makes darting sallies into dense crown, and these were erected to a near-vertical vegetation13,18,20.We can find no mention of these position. Aside from this single instance, we did not unique feathers in any of the scant literature on see another individual with its crest erected. We Taeniotriccus. Hellmayr6, in comparing suspect however, that during intraspecific displays, Taeniotriccus to Poecilotriccus, did note that the males may erect their crest in much more dramatic rictal bristles of the former were ‘much more

Figure 5. Sonograms of vocalisations of Black-chested numerous, less rigid and longer, reaching to about Tyrant Taeniotriccus andrei from Floresta Nacional de the middle of the bill’, but did not mention any Carajás, Pará, Brazil: (a) single-noted CHEWP call, and (b) stiffened feathers above the eye. Hellmayr, single-noted CHEWP followed by K’DINK K’DINK call however, was working with only two specimens (an (recordings by Kevin J. Zimmer) adult female and an immature male), and it is

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possible that specimen preparation could have pers. comm.). R. Panza of the Carnegie Museum of affected the prominence of the feathers above the Natural History (Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, USA) eye. Restall (pers. comm.) noted that preparation examined the specimen of klagesi, and found it had apparently flattened these feathers on some of difficult to determine the nape colour due to the COP specimens. specimen preparation, but related that it appeared No mention is made of geographic variation in to be ‘sooty’ (pers. comm.). This suggests that the the popular literature7,12, but there are two contrasting grey nape may be a distinguishing described subspecies of Taeniotriccus. Nominate character of females of klagesi; one that was andrei was formally described from a single overlooked due to nuances of preparation of the immature male, collected in Venezuela2. This holotype. Females that we observed also varied in holotype was essentially female-plumaged, but with the degree of colour saturation of the rufous head a number of black feathers scattered throughout and face. Some individuals were notably pallid and the chest, indicating it was in transition to adult dull, whereas others were nearly as bright rufous in male plumage6.Todd15 described Taeniotriccus these areas as were the males. klagesi on the basis of an adult female collected Observed bare-part colours for both sexes were from Itaituba, on the left bank of the rio Tapajós as follows: iris dark brown, possibly with reddish (Pará, Brazil). This individual was considered tint; bill black; tarsi and toes pale grey. We did note similar to the immature male of andrei (minus the some variation in bill colour. The maxilla of all scattered black feathers), except for the coloration individuals was black. In most males the entire of the breast (olive-grey versus medal bronze) and mandible was black as well, but in some individuals abdomen (whitish versus pale yellowish with the basal portion of the mandible was contrastingly olivaceous flanks). Hellmayr6 expressed doubts pinkish. Whether this simply reflects individual about the validity of klagesi, stating ‘I have hardly variation or is age-related is unknown. any doubt that this will prove to be the female of the preceding species [=andrei].’ J. T. Zimmer subse- Vocalisations quently examined 13 specimens of nominate andrei We heard only two types of vocalisations from from various localities in Venezuela and north-west Taeniotriccus, both of which were given sponta- Brazil19. After comparing the female specimens in neously and in response to tape playback. The most the series to Todd’s type description of klagesi,it commonly heard vocalisation (particularly among was Zimmer’s opinion that the two were conspecific spontaneously calling individuals) was a reedy, and possibly even identical. However, he opted to single-noted CHEWP or CHERT, repeated at retain subspecific recognition for the two forms, in regular intervals of c.3–4 seconds for up to five part because of an absence of male specimens of minutes or more at a time (Fig. 5a). Much less klagesi, and also because of the geographic frequently heard was a pair of couplets (Fig. 5b), separation between the known ranges of the two. the components of which were not distinctly two- Subsequent authors3,17 have typically maintained syllabled, but sounded more diphthongal, with the klagesi as a subspecies of T. andrei. first part of the couplet sounding sharper, the If klagesi is a valid subspecies, then our birds second part sounding clearer but with some of the from Carajás would presumably be assignable to reedy, wood-on-wood quality of the single-noted that form. The few females that we observed were call. This vocalisation could be transcribed as all olive-backed, with a conspicuously contrasting K’DINK K’DINK. These paired couplets were rarely grey nape. The latter feature is not mentioned in delivered consecutively in sequences, but rather, any field guide literature that we have seen, nor is were inserted into sequences of the single-noted it mentioned in the type descriptions of andrei or CHEWP calls (Fig. 5b). They were given more klagesi, or in Hellmayr’s6 comparison of the two frequently by individuals responding to tape forms. J. T. Zimmer’s analysis19 of the plumage of playback, and were only occasionally given by nominate andrei did not mention nape colour in the spontaneously vocalising birds. Functional female specimens, but he described the males as differences between the two types of vocalizations having a rufous nape and a black crest, whilst later (i.e. song versus call) were not obvious. Males describing the adult females as having ‘the head responded to tape playback by approaching the pattern of the males but the black crest is a little sound source and delivering one or both types of shorter.’ This implies that nape colour in female vocalisations. Females only occasionally andrei is rufous. In three of four females in the COP approached in response to tape playback, and (all without subspecific designation, but from usually remained silent when doing so. A few Venezuela, and therefore presumably nominate responded to persistent calls of their presumed andrei), nape colour was considered indeterminate mates with occasional single-note calls similar to due to poor specimen preparation (but probably not the CHEWP calls of the males, but never persisted contrastingly grey) and definitely was not grey in in vocalising, and were not heard to deliver the the remaining specimen from Bolívar (R. Restall paired couplet vocalisation.

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The only spontaneously vocalising bird that branch several times prior to swallowing. The first was seen without tape playback was the first male female observed by KJZ sallied from 2 m down to found by KJZ along the rio Parauapebas. It was on the ground and returned to its original perch with a bare, angled stem c.1 m above the ground and a medium-sized, unidentified . Rather shaded by overtopping foliage. The bird remained than immediately consuming the prey, the female on this perch and called continuously for c.3 engaged in the practice known as ‘anting’, by minutes, giving only the single-noted vocalisation. holding the arthropod in the bill, and rubbing it Other individuals called from perches up to 7 m vigorously through various groups, notably above ground, but these song-perch heights may those under each wing, on the flanks and belly, and have been influenced by tape playback. on the crissum. These motions were repeated The only previously published description of several times over the course of perhaps two vocalisations for Taeniotriccus was from minutes, before the bird eventually consumed the Venezuela8. The observers were unable to tape- arthropod. We were unable to identify most prey record any vocalisations, but described a ‘contact items; those that were identified were small call’ as ‘reminiscent of a Hemitriccus tyrant or orthopterans. Perch changes were typically Pipra , being moderately loud, short and accompanied by an audible wing-whirr sound that high-pitched’8. This description appears to us to be was comparable to sounds made by many species of consistent with the single-noted call described tody-tyrants Hemitriccus spp. Most prey captures above. were accompanied by an audible bill snap.

Behaviour Discussion All individuals selected open, shaded perches, The apparent rarity of Taeniotriccus throughout its usually on bare horizontal or diagonal branches or range is no doubt a partial artefact of the vines. Typical posture was three-quarters upright, behavioural inconspicuousness of the species. In with the back slightly hunched and the tail our experience, the species vocalises only intermit- somewhat drooped. Birds remained on a single tently and the most commonly given vocalisation perch anywhere from five seconds to more than one (single-noted) is neither far carrying nor particu- minute before flying to another perch. During this larly distinctive; it could be easily overlooked as the time, they actively scanned for prey by constantly call of a frog. Although the species tends to select turning the head. Most individuals periodically open perches, these are typically beneath the shallowly flicked both wings simultaneously, ‘umbrella’ of dense, vine-covered thickets, a although this was not done habitually. Wing-flicks tendency that further contributes to it being were sometimes accompanied by a shallow up-and- overlooked. We know of several experienced and down twitch of the tail. Vocalising birds gave a highly capable Brazilian and North American slight upward jerk of the head with each note; this birders, tour leaders and ornithologists who have was accompanied by a slight visible twitch of the spent considerable time in the Carajás region (even entire body and by a more noticeable slight twitch at the same season) without finding Taeniotriccus, of the tail. and yet the species is at least locally not Birds foraged mostly from 1–3 m above ground, uncommon. However, we believe that it must have but occasionally ascended to 12 m. Most of our a very patchy distribution within its range. Were it observations of birds more than 3 m above ground uniformly distributed, we would expect researchers were of individuals that initially responded to tape and birders to at least stumble onto it with some playback by flying in above our heads, but then regularity. This would seem particularly true with settled down to forage, remaining at greater respect to its distribution in várzea forests, which heights for several minutes after ceasing to are often the most readily surveyed habitats in vocalise. The 1995 sighting of Taeniotriccus by G. Amazonia. Our own survey of the avifauna of M. Kirwan et al., from Caño Colorado (Monagas, Carajás covered many roads and stretches of river Venezuela), was of an individual that was 4–5 m in which no Taeniotriccus were found, even after we above ground8. were familiar with its voice and habits. It seems All attack manoeuvres that we witnessed were likely that as-yet-unidentified specific microhabitat sally-gleans, mostly to bare branches, stems or requirements of the species restrict its presence to vines, but also to live foliage. Sallies varied from 30 habitats which are themselves patchily distributed cm to 2.5 m, and included upward-and-downward- through Venezuela and Brazil. directed diagonal sallies, horizontal sallies and Our tape-recordings have taxonomic implica- occasional looping sallies, in which the bird tions. Taeniotriccus was subsumed within returned to near its original perch. In most Poecilotriccus by Traylor16,17;a move supported by instances, sallying birds followed through to a new subsequent research on internal morphology9. perch, where smaller prey were swallowed However, Ridgely & Tudor12 argued for retention of immediately, and larger prey were bashed against a Taeniotriccus on the basis of its crest, different bill

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shape, larger size, and distinctive wing and facial 5. Graves, G. R. & Zusi, R. L. (1990) Avian body patterns. Our data on vocalisations would further weights from the lower Rio Xingu, Brazil. Bull. support the distinctiveness of Taeniotriccus.For Brit Orn. Club 110: 20–25. comparison, KJZ listened to his recordings of 6. Hellmayr, C. E. (1927) Catalogue of birds of the Black-and-white Tody-tyrant Poecilotriccus Americas. Field Mus. Nat. Hist., Zool. Ser. 13 (5). capitalis, White-cheeked Tody-tyrant P. albifacies, 7. Hilty, S. L. (2003) Birds of Venezuela. Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press. Rufous-crowned Tody-tyrant P. ruficeps and Lulu’s 8. Kirwan, G. M. & Sharpe, C. J. (1999) Range Tody-tyrant P. lulae, as well as recordings of all extensions and notes on the status of little- species in the sylvia-group of Todirostrum (placed known species from Venezuela. Bull. Brit. Orn. in Poecilotriccus by Lanyon based on morphology of Club 119: 38–47. 9 the syrinx ). Excluding Taeniotriccus, which is not 9. Lanyon, W. E. (1988) A phylogeny of the flatbill similar vocally to any of the others, the aforemen- and tody-tyrant assemblage of tyrant flycatchers. tioned species form a cohesive grouping with Amer. Mus. Novit. 2923: 1–41. obvious vocal similarities. The distinctiveness of 10. Novaes, F. C. (1978) Sobre algumas aves pouco Taeniotriccus is further supported by the unusual conhecidas da Amazonia brasileira. Bol. Mus. comb-like feathers above the eyes, and by the ruff- Par. Emílio Goeldi, Zool., nov. sér. 90: 1–15. like nature of the feathers of the head and nape, 11. Pires, J. M. & Prance, G. T. (1985) The vegetation features not present in members of Poecilotriccus. types of the Brazilian Amazon. In: Prance, G. T. & Tape-recordings of nominate Taeniotriccus andrei, Lovejoy, T. E. (eds.) Key environments: Amazonia. along with a thorough morphological analysis of Oxford: Pergamon Press. 12. Ridgely, R. S. & Tudor, G. (1994) The birds of South existing specimens from throughout the species’ America,2.Austin: University of Texas Press. range, will allow a more informed assessment of the 13. Schulenberg, T. S. (1983) Foraging behavior, validity of klagesi as a distinct taxon, and of the ecomorphology and of some nature of its relationship to andrei. antshrikes (: Thamnomanes). Wilson Bull. 95: 505–521. Acknowledgements 14. Sick, H. (1997) Ornitologia brasileira. Rio de We are especially grateful to Victor Emanuel of Victor Janeiro: Ed. Nova Fronteira. Emanuel Nature Tours for providing us with the travel 15. Todd, W. E. C. (1925) Sixteen new birds from Brazil opportunities that made this research possible. Special and Guiana. Proc. Biol. Soc. Wash. 38: 91–100. thanks to IBAMA and to the Companhia do Vale do Rio 16. Traylor, M. A. (1977) A classification of the tyrant Doce for permitting access to the Floresta Nacional de flycatchers (Tyrannidae). Bull. Mus. Comp. Zool. Carajás. Phyllis Isler kindly produced the sonograms, 148: 129–184. Les Gillis assisted KJZ with technical aspects of still- 17. Traylor, M. A. (1979) Check- of the image captures from video, and Tom Schulenberg and world,8.Cambridge, Mass: Mus. Comp. Zool., Mort Isler provided some references. The senior author Harvard Univ. wishes to thank Kimball Garrett, Kathy Molina and 18. Whitney, B. M. & Rosenberg, G. H. (1993) Behavior, the rest of the staff at the Los Angeles County Museum vocalizations and possible relationships of of Natural History for access to the collection, and for Xenornis setifrons (Formicariidae), a little-known their hospitality in hosting his frequent working visits. Chocó endemic. Condor 95: 227–231. We are also particularly thankful to the personnel at 19. Zimmer, J. T. (1953) Notes on tyrant flycatchers the Museu Paraense Emílio Goeldi in Belém for the (Tyrannidae). Amer. Mus. Novit. 1605: 14–16. access to their fine collection, and to Robin Panza and 20. Zimmer, K. J. & Isler, M. L. (2003) Family Robin Restall for checking specimens at the Carnegie Thamnophilidae (typical ). In: del Hoyo, Museum of Natural History (Pittsburg) and the J., Elliott, A. & Christie, D. A. (eds.) Handbook of Colección Ornitologia Phelps (Caracas) respectively. birds of the world,8.Barcelona: Lynx Edicions. Jeremy Minns graciously shared details of his sighting of Taeniotriccus from Carajás. Thanks also to Mario Kevin J. Zimmer Cohn-Haft and Guy Kirwan, whose comments on the 1665 Garcia Road, Atascadero, California 93422, USA. first draft of this paper were most helpful. E-mail: [email protected].

References Andrew Whittaker 1. Aleixo, A., Whitney, B. M. & Oren, D. C. (2000) Conjunto Acariquara, Rua Samaumas 214, , Range extensions of birds in southeastern Amazonas 69085–053, Brazil. Amazonia. Wilson Bull. 112: 137–142. 2. Berlepsch, H. von & Hartert, E. (1902) On the birds of the Orinoco Region. Novit. Zool.9:38. 3. Clements, J. F. (2000) Birds of the world: a checklist.Fifth edn. Vista, CA: Ibis Publishing. 4. Donahue, P. K. & Pierson, J. E. (1982) Birds of : an annotated checklist. South Harpswell, Maine: privately published.

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Cotinga 22

First record of Yellow-cheeked Becard Pachyramphus xanthogenys in Madre de Dios, Peru, and notes on birds from the same locality Daniel J. Lebbin Cotinga 22 (2004): 30–33

Este artículo informa sobre las observaciones de pájaros dentro de un derrumbe encima del Amazonia Lodge en el sudeste de Perú. Una pareja de Cabezón Cachetiamarillo Pachyramphus xanthogenys se observó cuatro veces en este sitio. Estas observaciones y una espécimen de museo no publicada representan los registros del extremo sur para ésta especie, y los primeros registros en el dpto. Madre de Dios. Un Alirrufa Gargantilistada striaticollis se observó también varias veces en este sitio que, a 888 m, es más bajo que la elevación típica de esta especie en Perú. Los orígenes de las aves en el derrumbe se discuten también.

Study site Yellow-cheeked Becard Pachyramphus xanthogenys Amazonia Lodge in south-east Peru is a popular A pair observed in scrubby vegetation within the tourist destination for birdwatchers and eco- landslide. The female was seen 27 June, the pair on tourists. The lodge (12o52’S 71o22’W) is situated 2 July, a male (and possibly a female) on 8 July, and between the río Alto Madre de Dios and the Pini the pair on 11 July. Photographs were taken on 2 Pini Ridge, at km 192 on the Cuzco–Shintuya road, and 11 July (Fig. 2), and I tape-recorded the male in dpto. Madre de Dios. This location is inside the on 11 July. The female was first observed briefly at Cultural Zone of the Manu Biosphere Reserve, at close range. Field marks included a rounded, grey 514 m. Atop the Pini Pini ridge, just above the head with yellow eye-ring surrounding a dark eye, lodge, is a large landslide (12o52’S 71o23’W) that yellow breast-band, white belly, and solid olive- has cleared an area from the top of the mountain to green back, wings and tail. Further details, such as the river below (Fig. 1). Although present since at the chestnut shoulder patch, were seen during least 1978 (R. Yábar pers. comm.), it has only a few subsequent observations. Field marks observed on spots of young secondary vegetation and is mostly the male included a black cap, white lores, bare due to continuing erosion. Birds were observed unbarred yellow cheeks, throat and breast, white from the top of the landslide, at 888 m. belly, and solid olive-green back, wings and tail.

Observations Streak-throated Bush-tyrant Myiotheretes In June–July 2002, I made seven trips to the striaticollis landslide. All birds seen and heard were recorded One photographed at the landslide on 18 and 27 (Appendix). Yellow-cheeked Becard Pachyramphus June, and 1, 2, 8 and 11 July (Fig. 3). It sallied from xanthogenys and Streak-throated Bush-tyrant rocks or low perches, and sometimes beat captured Myiotheretes striaticollis were observed and prey against rocks. In flight, this species and photographed on multiple occasions. P. xanthogenys Cliff Flycatcher Hirundinea ferruginea both reveal has not been recorded previously in dpto. Madre de bright cinnamon-rufous patches in the wings and Dios or this far south. M. striaticollis is not tail. Both were present at the landslide, often for typically found at elevations this low. Neither had side-by-side comparison. M. striaticollis was distin- been previously recorded at Amazonia Lodge10 and guished from H. ferruginea based on its larger size, these records bring the list of birds known from streaked throat, proportionately larger head and Manu Biosphere Reserve to 999 (B. Walker pers. stronger bill. Also, the belly of M. striaticollis is a comm.). paler or brighter rufous than the more chestnut- coloured belly of H. ferruginea. M. striaticollis had faint wingbars and pale edging to tertials, whereas H. ferruginea did not possess any sign of wingbars.

Table 1. Published1,7-8 altitude distributions for five species found at 888 m, at Amazonia Lodge.

Cliff Flycatcher Hirundinea ferruginea Mostly below 2,000 m Streak-throated Bush-tyrant Myiotheretes striaticollis 2,000–3,500 m, lower to 500–1,000 m perhaps seasonally Rufous-tailed Tyrant Knipolegus poecilurus 900–2,200 m Yellow-cheeked Becard Pachyramphus xanthogenys 800–1,400 m; 650–1,700 m in Ecuador Black-and-white Seedeater Sporophila luctuosa 1,200–3,500 m, lower to 100–300 m perhaps seasonally

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Figure 1. Landslide above Amazonia Lodge, 888 m elevation. Figure 2. Male Yellow-cheeked Becard Pachyramphus xanthogenys within the landslide above Amazonia Lodge, July 2002.

Figure 3. Streak-throated Bush-Tyrant Myiotheretes striaticollis Figure 4. Cliff Flycatcher Hirundinea ferruginea within the within the landslide above Amazonia Lodge, July 2002. landslide above Amazonia Lodge, July 2002.

Figure 5. Rufous-tailed Tyrant Knipolegus poecilurus within the Figure 6. Black-and-white Seedeater Sporophila luctuosa within landslide above Amazonia Lodge, July 2002. the landslide above Amazonia Lodge, July 2002.

Discussion remaining 12 were not observed within hill forest The landslide is certainly a younger landscape but are typical of more disturbed vegetation, like feature than the forests surrounding it. Therefore, that of the floodplain below the landslide, which hill forest surrounding the landslide, and riparian ends at a river channel, where river dynamics habitats at the bottom of the landslide, provide two create naturally disturbed habitats characterised local sources of potential colonists. Of the 47 species by more open vegetation (e.g. cane, recorded at the landslide, I observed 35 (75%) of Tessaria shrubs). All seven species were observed these within adjacent hill forest. Seven (15%) of the near the river or in disturbed habitats within 1 km

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of Amazonia Lodge. Therefore, these could probably lower elevations. Alternatively, the M. striaticollis colonise the landslide without ever having to cross at Amazonia Lodge could represent post-breeding dense forest. One of these, Silver-beaked Tanager dispersal. I consider weather to be a more likely Ramphocelus carbo, has been previously recorded cause, given that the site has been well surveyed by in terra firme forest in the east Andean foothills of highly skilled ornithologists since the 1980s and Peru and Bolivia5. The remaining five (representing the species had not been previously recorded. 11% of the total 47 species) were observed neither in hill forest nor in disturbed habitats at lower Acknowledgements elevations. These are all typically found in more My research was supported by an Andrew W. Mellon open habitats at higher elevations1,6–8 than the Student Research Grant. Transportation to Amazonia river floodplain at c.500 m (Table 1), but Black-and- Lodge from Cuzco was provided by Manu Expediciones white Seedeater Sporophila luctuosa has also been and the Yábar family. I thank the Yábar family for their recorded in riparian matorral at c.600 m in the hospitality and support at Amazonia Lodge. Tom Apurímac Valley11. Schulenberg provided specimen information from the Field Museum and Barry Walker information on the Hirundinea ferruginea, Rufous-tailed Tyrant birds of Manu. David W. Winkler, Gary M. Langham, Knipolegus poecilurus and Sporophila luctuosa Marita Davison and an anonymous reviewer provided have previously been recorded at Amazonia useful comments on the manuscript. Lodge11, but Pachyramphus xanthogenys and Myiotheretes striaticollis have not. Where could References these two species have originated? It would be 1. Clements, J. F. & Shany, N. (2001) A field guide to unsurprising to find M. striaticollis at an 888-m the birds of Peru.Temecula, CA: Ibis Publishing landslide if they migrate to lower elevations, but Company. Amazonia Lodge’s landslide is located on a ridge, 2. Have, W. T. (2003) Checklist of the birds of which reaches a maximum altitude of c.1,200 m Pantiacolla Lodge. http://www.tanagertours.com/ and is not connected to the main Andean chain. The english/index.html. ridge above Amazonia Lodge does connect to the 3. Lutheran World Relief (2002) Emergency in Peru Pantiacolla ridge, but P. xanthogenys and M. striati- and Bolivia. http://www.lwr.org/emergencies/ collis are unknown from there2. Therefore, birds 02/perubol.html. making altitudinal or latitudinal migrations from 4. Meyer de Schauensee, R. (1953) and the Andes must have crossed low-elevation valleys from Ecuador and Peru. Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philadelphia 105: 29–43. to reach the ridge above Amazonia Lodge. This is 5. Remsen, J. V. & Parker, T. A. (1983) Contribution of particularly the case with P. xanthogenys, which is river-created habitats to bird species richness in known from as far south as the San Juan and Amazonia. Biotropica 15: 223–231. 4 Perené , in the Chanchamayo region, in dpto. 6. Ridgely, R. S. & Greenfield, P. J. (2001) The birds of 9 Junín, Peru . The Chanchamayo region is centred Ecuador,2.Ithaca, NY: Cornell University Press. on the towns of La Merced and San Ramón9, and 7. Ridgely, R. S. & Tudor, G. (1989) The birds of South the landslide at Amazonia Lodge is c.480 km south- America,1.Austin: University of Texas Press. east of San Ramón. The Field Museum of Natural 8. Ridgely, R. S. & Tudor, G. (1994) The birds of South History has an unpublished specimen of a male P. America,2.Austin: University of Texas Press. xanthogenys (FMNH 320306) collected at Hacienda 9. Stephens, L. & Traylor, M. A. (1983) Ornithological Cadena, on 20 October 1963 (T. Schulenberg pers. gazetteer of Peru. Cambridge, MA: Mus. Comp. comm.). Hacienda Cadena is located in the Zool., Harvard University. Marcapata Valley, dpto. Cuzco, Peru. The town of 10. Stotz, D. F., Fitzpatrick, J. W. & Willard, D. E. (1985) Birds of Amazonia Lodge and vicinity. Marcapata is c.545 km south-east of San Ramón Most recent revision by Yábar, R. (2002) and c.77 km south-east of Amazonia Lodge. The http://www.amazonialodge.com/birds.html. Amazonia Lodge and Hacienda Cadena records of 11. Terborgh, J. & Weske, J. S. (1969) Colonization of P. xanthogenys probably represent a resident local secondary habitats by Peruvian birds. Ecol. 50: population or populations, expanding the known 765–782. range by more than 500 km. It is unclear if this population is continuous or not with populations in Daniel J. Lebbin Junín. Perhaps more P. xanthogenys will be subse- Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, Cornell quently found at sites between Hacienda Cadena University, E148 Corson Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853. E- and Amazonia Lodge within the appropriate mail: [email protected]. elevational band. Exceptionally cold friajes occurred in south-east Peru in July 2002, creating a humanitarian crisis in the Andean highlands3. Inclement weather may have forced species such as M. striaticollis to move large distances to more northern latitudes or to

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Cotinga 22 First record of Yellow-cheeked Becard in Madre de Dios, Peru

Appendix All birds recorded in the landslide are listed in the table below. The first to seventh columns under the 'Date recorded' heading show if each species was seen (X) or heard (H) that day. A question mark (?) indicates that the species may have been seen or heard, but that identification could not be confirmed. The eighth to tenth columns under the 'Use of landslide' heading indicate where each species was seen. If a species was seen perched within the open centre of the landslide, then a 1 is assigned to it in the 'Open centre' category. If a species was not seen perched within the open centre of the landslide, but was seen flying over it, a 1 was placed in the 'Overhead aerial' category for that species. Finally, if a species was not recorded perched within or flying over the landslide, but was recorded from the landslide as seen or heard in the forest bordering the landslide, then a 1 was assigned to that species in the 'Forest edge' category. Under 'Probable origins' heading, the potential source of colonisation for individual species were postulated based on where each species had been recorded near the landslide and published7,8 habitat preferences. Species typical of vegetation occurring in low elevation clearings or riparian disturbances were assigned a 1 under the 'Lowland disturbed/Riparian origin' category. Species seen in and typical of forest habitats were assigned a 1 under the 'Forest origin' category. All remaining species were assigned a 1 under the 'Highland disturbed/Long-distance origin' because these species are typical of either open areas of higher altitudes or clearings within montane forests of similar altitude.

Bird species list Date recorded Use of landslide Probable origins 18 25 27 1 2 8 11 Open Overhead Forest Lowland Forest Highland Jun Jun Jun Jul Jul Jul Jul centre aerial edge disturbed/ origin disturbed/ Riparian Long-distance origin origin Turkey Vulture Cathartes aura X1 1 King Vulture Sacroramphus papa X11 Swallow-tailed Kite Elanoides forficatus X11 White Hawk Leucopternis albicollis XX11 Solitary Eagle Harpyhaliaetus solitarius X11 Military Macaw Ara militaris X11 Blue-and-yellow Macaw Ara ararauna X1 1 Red-and-green Macaw Ara chloroptera XX 1 1 Blue-headed Macaw Primolius couloni XH 1 1 White-eyed Parakeet Aratinga leucophthalmus X11 Blue-headed Pionus menstruus XXX 1 1 Mealy Parrot Amazona farinosa HX? 1 1 Squirrel Cuckoo Piaya cayana HX HH 1 1 White-collared Swift Streptoprocne zonaris XX11 Grey-rumped Swift Chaetura cinereiventris X? 1 1 Sparkling Violetear Colibri coruscans XX 1 1 Fork-tailed Thalurania furcata XX 1 1 Golden-tailed Sapphire Chrysuronia oenone X1 1 sp. (Bar-breasted?) sp. (aurifrons?) X 1 1 White-throated Woodpecker Piculus leucolaemus XH 1 1 Lineated Woodpecker Dryocopus lineatus X11 Cliff Flycatcher Hirundinea ferruginea XXXXXX 1 1 Streak-throated Bush-tyrant Myiotheretes striaticollis XXXXXX1 1 Rufous-tailed Tyrant Knipolegus poecilurus XXX XX 1 1 Long-tailed Tyrant Colonia colonus 11 Social Flycatcher Myiozetetes similis XXX X 1 1 Streaked Flycatcher Myiodynastes maculatus X1 1 Tropical Kingbird Tyrannus melancholicus XXX X 1 1 Yellow-cheeked Becard Pachyramphus xanthogenys XXXX1 1 White-winged Becard Pachyramphus polychopterus X11 Masked Tityra semifasciata XH 1 1 Southern Rough-winged Swallow ruficollis XX X 1 1 Scaly-breasted (Southern Nightingale) Microcerculus marginatus 11 Rufous-browed Peppershrike Cyclarhis gujanensis HHH X 1 1 Bananaquit Coereba flaveola XXX X 1 1 Magpie Tanager Cissopis leveriana XXXX1 1 Silver-beaked Tanager Ramphocelus carbo XXX 1 1 Palm Tanager Thraupis palmarum X X X 1 1 Paradise Tanager Tangara chilensis X11 Blue-necked Tanager Tangara cyanicollis XXXX11 Turqouise Tanager Tangara mexicana X11 Opal-crowned Tanager Tangara callophrys X11 Blue Dacnis cayana X?1 Yellow-bellied Dacnis Dacnis flaviventer X1 1 Black-and-white Seedeater Sporophila luctuosa X1 1 Chestnut-bellied (Lesser) Seed-finch Oryzoborus angolensis XXX HX 1 1 Yellow-browed Sparrow Ammodramus aurifrons XXX X 1 1 TOTALS 19 5 227355

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Cotinga 22

New localities for the Austral Rail Rallus antarcticus in Argentina, and first record from the Falkland Islands Germán Pugnali, Mark Pearman, Graciela Escudero, Daniel Vaquero and Tony Chater Cotinga 22 (2004): 35–37

La Gallineta Chica Rallus antarcticus es conocida principalmente para el sur de la provincia de Santa Cruz, en el sur de la Patagonia Argentina, donde ha sido re-descubierta en Enero de 19985 y subsecuentemente hallada en un área adyacente, aunque menor, en Chile4. Estudios posteriores han revelado varias localidades nuevas, contándose hasta 125 individuos en Santa Cruz, y descubriéndose dos nidos en Chile, lo cual permitió reevaluar el estatus de conservación de la especie, pasando de En peligro/Extinta2 a Vulnerable1. Se reportan dos nuevas localidades para la Gallineta chica Rallus antarcticus, donde se presume reproducción, en el noreste de la provincia de Santa Cruz y nordeste de la provincia del Chubut, Argentina. Los registros fueron realizados cerca de la costa Atlántica, extendiéndose el rango de distribución de la especie por aproximadamente 825 km al nordeste, desde 48o37’S hasta 42o45’S. También reportamos dos vagrantes, uno de la costa del Chubut y otro de las Malvinas, siendo este el primero para las islas.

The Austral Rail Rallus antarcticus is known year” in the same marsh. When asked if more than primarily from southern Santa Cruz province in one bird was ever heard, the reply was negative. southern Patagonia, Argentina, where it was redis- covered in January 19985, being subsequently Rada Tilly, Chubut province (45o55’S 67o33’W). On found in an adjacent, but smaller, area of Chile4. the evening of 6 March 2001, an Austral Rail was Additional surveys have revealed several new observed and photographed (archived in the Aves localities and up to 125 individuals in Santa Cruz library, Buenos Aires) by DV and Lis (Mazar Barnett & Imberti unpubl.), plus the Medina. The bird was found in an urban area, 500 discovery of two nests in Chile (A. Jaramillo et al. in m from the Atlantic Ocean and close to a litt.), permitting a re-evaluation of the species’ permanent brackish pond (700 m from the coast) in conservation status from Endangered/Extinct2 to which several species of aquatic birds occur. It was Vulnerable1. first seen at dusk, at c.21h30, when it landed close This contribution reports on new, presumed to the observers. The bird flew with difficulty, breeding, localities in extreme north-east Santa occasionally losing control, against the strong Cruz and extreme north-east Chubut provinces, westerly wind (estimated at 70–80 km/h). After a which extend the known modern-day range from very low flight, it landed in front of a house and 48o37’S to 42o45’S or by 825 km north-east. We also then moved to a grassier area in a garden, report vagrant records from coastal Chubut and the permitting approach to within 1 m. After being first from the Falkland Islands. photographed, the bird moved away and remained under a large parked truck. The observers returned Observations to the area the following day but the bird could not Estancia La Estrella, Santa Cruz province (47º19’S be relocated. 65º57’W). In the late afternoon of 12 May 1998, MP and Richard Johnson tape-recorded an Austral Rail Peninsula Valdés, Chubut Province (42o52’S regularly singing from a small (c.40 m-radius) and 63o37’W). At midday on 27 November 2002, an notably tall (c.2.2 m) Schoenoplectus rushbed Austral Rail was heard by GP at an undisclosed irrigated by continuous flowing water from a wind locality on the peninsula. It was calling from a pump 35 m away. All attempts to view the bird, shallow, brackish pond created by permanent using direct playback and playback of other birds overflow from a watermill. This small wetland was recorded in Santa Cruz, on 12–13 May, when it sang narrower than 10 m at its widest point and c.60 m regularly throughout daylight hours, were long. A dense stand of rushes (Cyperaceae) covered inhibited by the tall dense nature of the rushes, most of the wetland, with only a few patches of open except that twice the passage of a moving bird water, preventing any observations, although the could be traced by the moving tips of young lower bird responded to playback. Its voice was recorded peripheral rushes. On playing the voice to estancia using a video camera. On 22 December 2002, GP, workers and asking if they knew anything of the Hernán Rodriguez Goñi and Miguel Castelino bird, one farmhand immediately used the name returned to the same site at midday, when at least Pidén Chico, which is the Chilean name applied to two birds responded to playback, and tape- Austral Rail, and went on to describe a small rail recordings were made. Although the birds with a “narrow red bill” which sang “year after approached closer on playback, it was only possible

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Cotinga 22 New localities for Austral Rail in Argentina

to see them by entering the marsh, when two birds Discussion were flushed. The records presented here clearly fall into two On 13 January 2003, MP, Frank Lambert, Alan categories. Austral Rail has not been previously Eardley and Barry Scampion were able to obtain recorded in the Falkland Islands9. Whilst habitat repeated views, at close range, of two birds at the for this and another of our sightings is not that same locality. One walked or ran between the legs previously considered typical for the species5, of MP on three occasions, and one was also seen in several Austral Rails were reported to have flight, when the tarsus clearly protruded beyond overwintered in a garden at Cayutué, Chile2. There the tail. Both were of a similar size, neither are relatively few reports of rallid vagrancy in vocalised and there was no evidence that the birds South America and related offshore areas6,7,8, but were breeding or had bred, although this seems the birds at Rada Tilly and the Falklands were possible. undoubtedly vagrants blown off course by strong On 4 June 2003, Luis Segura and Carlos westerly winds, which are common in the area, Saibene returned to the same lagoon but failed to possibly while undertaking seasonal movements. find the species, despite using the same techniques Although gardens are not ‘normal’ habitat for as previous observers. However, by August 2003, a Austral Rails, such relatively wet, green areas pair was again present, with one vocalising, and could represent a last option of suitable habitat for both were observed by Joe Tobias, Nat Seddon and a vagrant, either in the Patagonian desert or the Stuart Butchart (pers. comm.). Thereafter, on 3 Atlantic Ocean. October 2003, one was observed by MP et al.at In contrast, the other records reported here distances down to 1 m. During these observations, clearly involve potential, if not regular, breeders, rush cover was naturally low after dying back in although they seemingly involved isolated pairs, winter, making the birds more visible, but the only which appears unusual in the species. The only bird found in October was not vocalising, did not previous record of Austral Rail in Chubut province audibly respond to a pre-recorded tape, repeatedly was made by Koslowsky, who collected one in 1901, returned to a specific area of the marsh and at Lago Blanco3, in the extreme south-west of the appeared unusually nervous. It is conceivable that province, a waterbody now half its former size and it was undertaking distraction behaviour for an lacking the rush habitat of 40 years ago (S. Imberti incubating mate, but this was not investigated in pers. comm.). Nevertheless, this historical record order to minimise the risk of nest desertion. comes from that part of the province closest to the Andes, and therefore has little relevance to the Ship Harbour, New Island North Nature Reserve, coastal sightings from the other extreme of the o o Falkland Islands (c.51 47’S 61 09’W). An Austral province, especially when one considers that Rail was observed during the early afternoon of 10, Chubut covers 224,686 km2, and thus a truly vast 18 and 25 May 2002. It possibly had arrived in the area must be surveyed for other Austral Rail area earlier, but it was not seen after 25 May. The populations. observations were made in a small pool beside a Both of the novel ‘resident’ records mentioned ditch draining water from a carrot garden. During here come from extremely isolated rushbeds, which the first encounter, TC was able to approach to remain wet only through sustained water flow from within 2 m and the bird was highly visible, but flew wind pumps. Our information suggests that these off when he attempted to obtain an even closer marshes have been extant for several, if not many, view. The flight was sudden, explosive, with an years. The habitat at Estancia La Estrella, almost vertical take-off and rapid wingbeats, the combined with sound-recordings of a territorial legs dangling slightly. The short low flight ended in bird and reports from an estancia worker there, some long grass c.20 m distant. Once on the ground, strongly points to the existence of a hitherto it ran very quickly in bursts, looking somewhat like unknown breeding site. Likewise, five records in a rat Rattus until lost in the gloom. Throughout the different months over two breeding seasons from observation it was silent. During the second and the marsh on Peninsula Valdés, along with possible third encounters, photographs were obtained and distraction display after territorial song had been the bird was very tame, and was even briefly picked recorded and two birds seen a month earlier, also up. Once, it was observed walking in the stream suggests a far-removed, disjunct breeding site. It is (8–10 cm deep and about the same width) with only possible that other rushbeds of a similar nature its head and shoulders above the waterline. may offer isolated pockets of breeding habitat close Swimming behaviour, with a similarly submerged to the Patagonian coast, unlike the extensive body, has been also observed in Río Chico, Santa rushbeds densely populated by the species in 5 Cruz province and at El Zurdo, Santa Cruz (MP extreme southern Patagonia. pers. obs.). This individual probably arrived from the South American mainland during a northerly to north-easterly gale on 6–7 May.

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Cotinga 22 New localities for Austral Rail in Argentina

Acknowledgements We thank Pim Edelaar for comments on the manuscript, Luis Segura for providing logistical help, Terry Lee and Tony Pym for sound-recordings and field Birding Overseas? assistance, Juan Mazar Barnett for assistance with literature and Santiago Imberti for additional comments on the manuscript. Need a Birding Guide?

References Visit www.guided-birding.com 1. BirdLife International (2000) Threatened birds of the world.Cambridge, UK: BirdLife International & Barcelona: Lynx Edicions. THE online directory of 2. Collar, N. J., Gonzaga, L. P., Krabbe, N., Madroño professional birding guides around Nieto, A., Naranjo, L. G., Parker, T. A. & Wege, D. the world C. (1992) Threatened birds of the Americas: the ICBP/IUCN Red Data Book. Cambridge, UK: International Council for Bird Preservation. Details of professional birding 3. Hellmayr, C. E. & Conover, C. B. (1942) Catalogue guides in over 70 countries of birds of the Americas, 1 (1). Field Mus. Nat. worldwide including Argentina, Hist. Zool. Ser. 13. 4. Imberti, S. & Mazar Barnett, J. (1999) El Pidén Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Austral (Rallus antarcticus) redescubierto en Mexico, Peru and many more. Chile. Bol. Chil. Orn. 6: 44–45. 5. Mazar Barnett, J., della Seta, M., Imberti, S. & Pugnali, G. (1998) Notes on the rediscovery of the www.guided-birding.com Austral Rail Rallus antarcticus in Santa Cruz, Argentina. Cotinga 10: 96–101. Professional birding guides at your 6. Mazar Barnett, J. (2000) An extra-limital record of fingertips! Ocellated Crake Micropygia schomburgkii from coastal Sao Paulo, Brazil. Ararajuba 8: 141–142. 7. Prince, P. A. & Croxall, J. P. (1996) The birds of South Georgia. Bull. Brit. Orn. Club 116: 81–104. 8. Remsen J. V. & Parker T. A. (1990) Seasonal distri- bution of the Azure Gallinule (Porphyrula flavirostris). Wilson Bull. 102: 380–399. 9. Woods, R. W. (1988) Guide to birds of the Falkland Islands. Oswestry: Anthony Nelson.

German Pugnali 25 de Mayo 758 10 ‘I’ (1002) Cap. Fed., Argentina. E- mail: [email protected].

Mark Pearman Del Ombú 1683, Parque Leloir, (1714) Ituzaingó, Pcia. de Buenos Aires, Argentina. E-mail: [email protected].

Graciela Escudero (APO) Asociación Patagónica de Ornitología, Esquel 2283, 9000 Comodoro Rivadavia, Chubut, Argentina. Current address: Department of Biology MSC3AF, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM 88003, USA. E-mail: [email protected].

Daniel Vaquero Perito Moreno 775, Rada Tilly, 9001 Chubut, Argentina.

Tony Chater New Island North Nature Reserve, Falkland Islands, South Atlantic Ocean.

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Cotinga 22

A Brazilian Merganser Mergus octosetaceus nest in a rock crevice, with reproductive notes Ivana Reis Lamas and Jean Pierre Santos Cotinga 22 (2004): 38–41

Um ninho de pato-mergulhão Mergus octosetaceus foi encontrado em fenda de paredão rochoso no Parque Nacional da Serra da Canastra, estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil. Cerca de 20 dias após sua descoberta, o ninho foi visitado para medição e pesagem dos ovos e acompanhamento do comporta- mento parental. Nesta ocasião, os sete ovos estavam muito frios e a fêmea não foi localizada. A presença do macho chamando por ela toda manhã nos faz acreditar que ela possa ter morrido, e não abandonado o ninho. Até o presente, havia registro de apenas um ninho desta espécie, encontrado em cavidade de árvore na mata ciliar em Misiones, Argentina, em 1956. Sendo o único registro de ninho para a espécie, acreditava-se que o pato-mergulhão fosse dependente de mata ciliar com árvores de grande porte para sua reprodução. O registro aqui apresentado é de fundamental importância para a conservação e manejo da espécie.

Brazilian Merganser Mergus octosetaceus is one of found the female incubating. The eggs were laid in the most endangered bird species in Brazil and the a depression in the rock, and the female did not world5,7,12. In , it was last recorded in 1984, leave the nest while we were close to the crevice. and there appears to be little suitable extant Only the female incubated, leaving the nest at habitat5. Only singles have recently been reported least once per day to feed. The male spent most in Argentina4,10. time feeding or resting nearby, constantly vigilant, In Brazil the known distribution of M. octose- but sometimes flew off, departing the area for taceus formerly encompassed the states of Goiás, several hours. Once, the female left the nest, flew to Minas Gerais, Mato Grosso do Sul, São Paulo, Rio a nearby river pool calling and was joined de Janeiro, Paraná and Santa Catarina1,13.In immediately by the male. They vocalised for several recent decades, it has been found in only a few minutes. When leaving the nest, the female covered regions, principally protected areas, such as the eggs with down feathers, apparently from its Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park, Emas own body. National Park and Serra da Canastra National The region surrounding the nest was dominated Park and its surroundings7,16,17 (Fig. 1). The species’ by open grassland, grassland with scattered shrubs presence was recently confirmed in western and fields. The stream has a number of waterfalls Bahia15, and Jalapão State Park, Tocantins6, thus and pools of different sizes and depths. Immediately broadening its known distribution. in front of the nest, the stream flows through a Brazilian Merganser naturally occurs at low small, narrow canyon. A few metres upstream is a densities and its rarity is not only a consequence of large pool, where the male frequently swam, human threat. By the 1940s it was already sometimes calling the female. The canyon opened considered one of the rarest birds in South into other smaller pools where the pair fed (Fig. 2). America10. There is very little biological The rock wall harbouring the nest was c.13 m information for the species2,14,16. The only high (Fig. 3) and the crevice used for nesting was documented record of a M. octosetaceus nest is from 10.5 m above water level. The opening faced east, 1954, by , who found one in a tree hole but sunlight did not enter the crevice, at least at beside the Arroyo Urugua-í, in Misiones, this season. Minimum temperatures within the Argentina14. Giai8 claimed that the species nests on crevice were 13oC and 14oC on two consecutive rocks or aquatic vegetation, without providing nights. Maximum daytime temperature was 22oC. details. Thus, it was believed that M. octosetaceus The crevice measured as follows: maximum height was dependent on gallery forests for nest sites. at entrance, 30 cm; minimum height at entrance, 18cm; maximum internal width (c.0.60 m near the Observations opening), 0.7 m; maximum depth, 2.1 m; distance While conducting a Brazilian Merganser survey in between the nest and entrance, 1.5 m; crevice and around the Serra da Canastra National Park, height at the nest, c.0.5 m. Minas Gerais, we were fortunate to find a nest of In July, c.20 days later, a visit was made to the species on 27 June 2002, beside the Matinha monitor the nest and observe parental behaviour. watercourse. We initially observed a female landing Only the male was observed on this occasion. On on a rocky wall a few metres above the stream. As visiting the nest, we found seven eggs (Fig. 4), laid we already suspected this habitat could be used for on a thin layer of sand and soil. They were oval in nesting, we searched several crevices and soon shape and pale beige, almost white, in coloration.

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Cotinga 22 A Brazilian Merganser nest in a rock crevice

Mean mensural data were as follows: 61.7 mm octosetaceus. M. squamatus nests in tree holes (length), 42.5 mm (width) and 59.86 g (weight). along creeks in forests of north-east China18. Other Data for each were as follows: egg 1: 62.0 mm x Mergus lay their eggs in cavities beside pools, lakes 42.1 mm, 55 g; egg 2: 60.2 mm x 42.7 mm, 57.0 g; and rivers. The eggs of M. squamatus, like those of egg 3: 61.4 mm x 43.2 mm, 59.0 g; egg 4: 61.7 mm x M. octosetaceus, are incubated by the female alone, 41.3 mm, 63.0 g; egg 5: 60.8 mm x 43.6 mm, 63.0 g; and are covered with feathers when it leaves the egg 6: 62.0 mm x 42.6 mm, 61.0 g; egg 7: 64.0 mm x nest. Egg size is similar to M. octosetaceus: 63.3 mm 42.2 mm, 61.0 g. x 45.9 mm and 61.9 g. Incubation apparently lasts For three days we watched the nest, but the 35 days18. female was not seen and the eggs were cold. Each Chinese Merganser was observed using the morning, at c.06h50, the male called close to the same tree hole, in China, for three consecutive nest. Thus, we believe that either the female years18.We subsequently visited the nest site on abandoned the nest or died. Although nest Matinha stream on 25 July 2003, but found no abandonment is not rare among birds9, we believe evidence of recent use. that the most likely reason for the female’s absence Brazilian Mergansers are estimated to breed in was predation, as the male continued to solicit for June–August5.We observed adults with young in her. Giai8 reported a male returning on 20 August–December. The large size of some young consecutive days to the same pool where a female observed in August demonstrates that hatching had been collected. occurred, at the latest, in mid-June, thus eggs were probably laid in mid-May. Therefore, we believe the Discussion breeding season, at least in the Serra da Canastra, Many potential predators of Brazilian Merganser extends more than six months. exist. Recent surveys have been conducted in Serra In another family group, medium-sized young da Canastra National Park with the aim of revising were seen with their parents in its management plan. It has been speculated that November–January. In February we observed three several mammals and birds recorded in the area individuals in another stream. It is probable that might prey on Brazilian Merganser, based on their this observation involved a pair with their young diet, size and habitat. Among mammals, Rogério de from the previous season. If so, parental care Paula (pers. comm. 2002) cites Puma Puma extends to February and young can remain with the concolor, Ocelot Leopardus pardalis, Margay adults for more than three months before Leopardus wiedii,Jaguarundi Herpailurus dispersing. In many instances young stay with the yagouaroundi, Maned Wolf Chrysocyon brachyurus, parents until December–January, prior to the next Crab-eating Fox Cerdocyon thous,Tayra Eira breeding season3. Age of sexual maturity is two barbara and Neotropical River Otter Lontra years or more in the Mergini tribe, apparently a longicaudis.For birds, Dante Buzzetti (pers. comm. derived condition shared by all members of the 2002) highlights Black-chested Buzzard-eagle grouping11. Geranoaetus melanoleucus, Crowned Eagle No mergansers were observed in March–May Harpyhaliaetus coronatus, Aplomado Falcon Falco 2002. The moulting period of the species is poorly femoralis, Grey-headed Kite Leptodon cayanensis, known, but may occur at the end of the rainy Black-and-white Hawk-eagle Spizastur melanoleu- season16, which coincides, in southern Brazil, with cus, Collared Forest-falcon Micrastur March-April. That the birds are moulting may semitorquatus and Great Horned Bubo explain the lack of records at this season16. Because virginianus.Partridge14 also drew attention to the they temporarily lose their capacity to fly, the birds Black-and-white Hawk-eagle as being amongst the are shyer and more difficult to locate. most dangerous predators of M. octosetaceus in Our discovery is significant for conservation Argentina. and management, as it demonstrates that the After verifying that the nest had been absence of large trees is not a crucially limiting abandoned, and with authorisation from the factor on the species’ breeding ecology. The avail- Brazilian Environment Agency (IBAMA), the eggs ability of rock walls with crevices may represent a were collected. Three eggs with embryos still in far more abundant nesting resource than tree holes good condition had the DNA extracted and this is in our study region. stored in the Laboratory of Biodiversity & Conservation of watercourses and their Molecular Evolution at the Universidade Federal margins is essential for the Brazilian Merganser’s de Minas Gerais. The other four eggs, which were in survival. Besides being naturally rare, M. octose- an advanced stage of decomposition, had their taceus populations suffer many pressures that have shells preserved and have been deposited at the contributed to their decline. In the Serra da Museu de Zoologia da Universidade de São Paulo. Canastra, the main threats appear to be Among Mergus spp., Chinese Merganser M. degradation and destruction of the species’ squamatus has similar reproductive traits to M. favoured habitats, and intensifying ecotourism. All

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Cotinga 22 A Brazilian Merganser nest in a rock crevice

human activities that impact the quality and biodiversity status, threats, and outlook. integrity of rivers and their margins potentially Washington: Island Press. threaten the species. Unfortunately, the destruction 11. Livezey, B. C. (1995) Phylogeny and evolutionary of gallery forests, although prohibited by law, is still ecology of modern seaducks (: Mergini). common practice on many properties. Erosion and Condor 97: 233–255. the silting-up of streams appears to be a 12. Ministério do Meio Ambiente–Brasil (2003) Instrução Normativa No.3, de 27 de maio de consequence of the exploitation of marginal 2003. vegetation. Mergus octosetaceus conservation 13. Pacheco, J. F. & Fonseca, P. S. M. (1999) Evidência depends on the restoration and preservation of de ocorrência histórica do pato-mergulhão streams, their riverheads and margins, including (Mergus octosetaceus) no estado do Rio de gallery forests, although we have proved that these Janeiro. Atualidades Orn. 88: 10. forests are not the exclusive site for their nests. 14. Partridge, W. H. (1956) Notes on the Brazilian Merganser in Argentina. Auk 73: 473–488. Acknowledgements 15. Pineschi, R. B. & Yamashita, C. (1999) Occurrence, Our study was requested by the Instituto Brasileiro de census and conservation of the Brazilian Meio Ambiente e dos Recursos Naturais Renováveis Merganser (Mergus octosetaceus) in Brazil with (IBAMA), with resources from UHE Igarapava, under notes about feeding behaviour and habitat the conditions of operational license no. 25/98. We are preferences. Proc. Neotrop. Waterfowl Symp., VI very grateful to Sônia Rigueira, José Fernando Neotrop. Orn. Congr., Monterrey, Mexico. Pacheco, Dante Buzzetti, Rogério de Paula, Alexandre 16. Silveira, L. F. & Bartmann, W. D. (2001) Natural Godinho, Mauro Guimarães, Luiz Fábio Silveira, Wolf history and conservation of Brazilian Merganser Bartmann, Luiz Gonzaga, Carlos Eduardo A. Carvalho, Mergus octosetaceus at Serra da Canastra Lúcio Bedê, Hugo Godinho and Leonardo Lopes. We National Park, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Bird also thank IBAMA National Park employees: Rosilene Conserv. Intern. 11: 287–300. Ferreira, Delmo Alves and Adaniel Matos; and Profs. 17. Yamashita, C. & Valle, M. P. (1990) Ocorrência de Fabrício R. Santos and Germán A. B. Mahecha, of the duas aves raras no Brasil Central: Mergus octose- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais. taceus e Tigrisoma fasciatum fasciatum. Ararajuba 1: 107–109. References 18. Zhengjie, Z., Han, X., Zhang, S., Wu, J. & Piao, Z. 1. Antas, P. T. Z. (1996) The Brazilian Merganser (1995) Breeding ecology of the Chinese Merganser (Mergus octosetaceus), the most threatened duck in the Changbai Mountains, China. J. Field Orn. in South America. Game Wildlife 13: 799–800. 66: 54–59. 2. Bartmann, W. (1988) New observations on the Brazilian Merganser. Wildfowl 39: 7–14. Ivana Reis Lamas 3. Bartmann, W. (1995) The Brazilian Merganser Instituto Terra Brasilis, Rua do Ouro 136/801, CEP (Mergus octosetaceus)—nearly extinct? Congr. 30220-000, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil. Current address: Orn. Neotrop., Asunción, Paraguay. Conservation International do Brasil, Av. Getúlio Vargas o 4. Benstead, P. J., Jeffs, C. J. S. & Hearn, R. D. (1998) 1300/7 andar, CEP 31112-021, Belo Horizonte, MG, Riparian bird densities along four tributaries of Brazil. E-mail: [email protected]. the rio Paraná in north-eastern Argentina. Hornero 15: 68–71. Jean Pierre Santos 5. BirdLife International (2000) Threatened birds of Av. Presidente Tancredo Neves 641, CEP 37928-000, the world.Cambridge, UK: BirdLife São Roque de Minas, MG, Brazil. International & Barcelona: Lynx Edicions. 6. Braz, V. S., Abreu, T. L. S., Lopes, L. E., Leite, L. O., França, F. G. R., Vasconcellos, M. M. & Balbino, S. F. (2003) Brazilian Merganser Mergus octose- taceus discovered in Jalapão State Park, Tocantins, Brazil. Cotinga 20: 68–71. 7. Collar, N. J., Gonzaga, L. P., Krabbe, N., Madroño Nieto, A., Naranjo, L. G., Parker, T. A. & Wege, D. C. (1992) Threatened birds of the Americas: the ICBP/IUCN Red Data Book. Cambridge, UK: International Council for Bird Preservation. 8. Giai, A. G. (1950) Notas de viajes. Hornero IX (2): 121–164. 9. Gill, F. B. (1994) Ornithology.New York: W. H. Freeman & Co. 10. Giraudo, A. R. & Povedano, H. (2003) Threats of to flagship species in the interior Atlantic Forest. In: Galindo-Leal, C. & Câmara, I. G. (eds.) The Atlantic Forest of South America—

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Cotinga 22 A Brazilian Merganser nest in a rock crevice

Figure 1. Brazilian Merganser Mergus octosetaceus in Santo Figure 2. One of the feeding areas used by the nesting pair of Antônio stream, at the border of Serra da Canastra National Brazilian Mergansers (Ivana R. Lamas) Park, Brazil (Carlos E. A. Carvalho)

Figure 4. Brazilian Merganser eggs (Ivana R. Lamas)

Figure 5. Brazilian Merganser Mergus octosetaceus (Carlos E. A. Carvalho)

Figure 3. Rock wall where the Brazilian Merganser nest was found (Ivana R. Lamas)

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Cotinga 22

Breeding biology of White-faced Nunbird Hapaloptila castanea in Ecuador Nicholas Athanas and Judy Davis Cotinga 22 (2004): 42–45

Reportamos la primera información sobre la anidación de la Monja Cariblanca Hapaloptila castanea de bosque subtropical cerca a Tandayapa al nor-occidente del Ecuador a una altitud de 1.900 m durante el mes de mayo hasta julio del año 2000. El nido estaba localizado bajo tierra consistiendo de un túnel de entrada de 38 cm de largo abriéndose en una cavidad más ancha. Dos huevos fueron puestos entre 28 de mayo y 30 de mayo de 2000. La incubación tuvo una duración de 15 a 18 días y las crías salieron del nido entre 37 y 38 dias después de empollarse. Ambos adultos participaron en todos aspectos de anidación, y fueron observados haciendo entrega de una gran variedad de comida a las crías, incluyendo insectos, arañas, crías de otras aves, un ratón y una rana. El comportamiento de ambos adultos y crías son descritos.

White-faced Nunbird Hapaloptila castanea is rare Nest description and local in subtropical Andean forests between The nest was located c.5 m from a forest clearing Colombia and northern Peru1.Virtually nothing caused by a large landslide in December 1999. The has been published on its breeding behaviour, only nest burrow was located in a dirt bank under a that a male with a brood patch was found near Cali, large tree. The tunnel opening faced almost due at 1,800 m, in the Western Cordillera of Colombia south (182o), was straight and inclined downward in April2. c.10o. It was oval-shaped (c.5 cm high and 7 cm On 13 April 2000, we found a single bird at wide) and continued for c.38 cm before opening into 1,900 m, near Tandayapa Bird Lodge, Pichincha an ovoid cavity, c.23 cm long x 16 cm wide x 10 cm Province, Ecuador (00o00’N 78o41’W). On 26 April, high (Fig. 1). The cavity was lined with small we observed a pair in the same location, one with leaves. In front of the nest opening there was a mud caked on its bill, suggesting it had been 16 cm-long flat area which the birds used as a excavating a nest. On 30 April, the nest was landing area (Fig. 2). discovered nearby, and we began to observe the pair at the nest on a near-daily basis, continuing to do so Timing until both nestlings had fledged, on 23 July. A total Most of our data came from visual inspections of of 320 field hours was spent observing the nest. We the nest. Initially, the nest was checked only every report here the results of our observations. few days to avoid disturbance. Subsequently, when

Figure 1. Diagram of the nest of White-faced Nunbird Hapaloptila castanea.

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Cotinga 22 Breeding biology of White-faced Nunbird in Ecuador

the birds had become accustomed to the presence of Nest construction observers, we checked the nest daily, although only As previously mentioned, the cavity had already when the adults were not nearby. been excavated when observations commenced. The pair had completed excavating the cavity Between 3 May and 21 May we occasionally saw a when observations commenced. Between 3 May and nunbird pick a small leaf off a nearby tree in a 21 May, the pair lined the nest with leaves. No sallying flight and then enter the nest with the leaf. copulations were observed. Two white eggs were For unknown reasons, the adults were very slow to laid between the mornings of 28 May and 30 May. line the nest and there were several days when we The first egg hatched between the mornings of 14 did not observe the birds at all. June and 15 June. The second egg hatched between noon on 15 June and the morning of 16 June. The Incubation and brooding first nestling fledged in the afternoon of 22 July, the We were unable to observe the nest at close range second the next morning. Based on these data, until the final week of incubation, thus our data on incubation lasted 15–18 days and the young fledged changeovers are sparse. However, we did observe a 37–38 days after hatching. The total nesting period definite pattern during the final six days of was at least 88 days, possibly more than 101 days if incubation. There was always a changeover at the bird first seen on 13 April had already dawn, between 05h44 and 06h26, another at commenced nest-building. 08h15–0940, then at 10h55–12h00, and another at 13h30–15h40. No changeovers were observed after Behavioural observations 15h40, although we only observed during that The birds were initially very wary of observers and period for two days of the final six. During would not approach the nest if any were nearby, changeovers, the nest remained untended for a even if concealed in a hide. They gradually became mean 29 minutes (N=17), once as long as 72 accustomed to human presence and for a period of minutes. Occasionally an incubating bird left the several weeks we were able to observe them from a nest for a few minutes, perched nearby and then distance of just 8 m without signs of disturbance or returned to the nest. stress. However, as the fledglings grew larger the After the eggs hatched, the parents brooded the birds seemed to become more wary and the nestlings until 27–29 June. During incubation and observation distance was increased to 15 m. brooding, on all nine occasions where the bird was The two adults were almost identical in identified with certainty, the male was the last to appearance. In direct comparison, one (hereafter enter the nest in the afternoon. This suggests that the first bird) was slightly plumper, had slightly the male was responsible for the majority of darker underparts and had a slightly larger bill incubation and brooding. than the other (the second bird). Despite these differences, we were unable to separate the adults Nestling phase until we discovered that, at close range, a slight but The two eggs hatched c.1 day apart and the parents obvious difference in bill shape could be used to began feeding the first nestling immediately. We distinguish them with certainty. The first bird had witnessed 235 food deliveries, 183 (78%) of which a distinct downward bend near the tip of the lower were insects and larvae. Frequently they were large mandible, a feature lacking in the other. As no items such as , grasshoppers and caterpil- copulations were observed, we were unable to lars. Twenty (8%) were of other large vertebrates confirm their sexes in the field. However, following and invertebrates, including four , nine examination of a pair held in the Natural History lizards, two nestling birds (Fig. 3), a mouse and a Museum, Tring (collected below Páramo Frontino, small frog. The remaining 32 items (14%) were not Antioquia, Colombia, by T. K. Salmon, in 1876), we clearly observed or not could not be identified. For determined that those features exhibited by the 229 of these, the identity of the parent delivering second bird precisely matched those of the female the food was determined. The female delivered 136 specimen and that the first was a male. (59%) items and the male 93 (41%) items. As the male was responsible for the majority of the General observations incubation, it was possibly foraging largely for its Both sexes participated in all aspects of the own requirements. breeding cycle, including nest construction, The nestlings began vocalising soon after incubation, brooding and feeding of the young. hatching on 16 June. Initially the vocalisations Before entering and after leaving the nest, the were very faint and not audible more than 1 m from adults almost always perched on a small sapling the nest. By 4 July, the nestlings were calling suffi- above the nest for a period of a few seconds to a few ciently loudly to be heard 20 m away. The most minutes. frequently heard was the begging call, a high- pitched, rapid trill with the notes given c.18 times per second. The nestlings would commence begging

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Cotinga 22 Breeding biology of White-faced Nunbird in Ecuador

Figure 2. White-faced Nunbird Hapaloptila castanea at nest Figure 3. White-faced Nunbird Hapaloptila castanea with entrance (Nicholas Athanas) predated nestling bird, which it fed to its own nestlings (Murray Cooper) calls upon hearing the vocalisation or wingbeats of a parent, and continue until being fed. Curiously, the nestlings never called simultaneously, and the calling bird was always the nestling that advanced up the tunnel to be fed. Towards the end of the nestling phase, they would frequently give a whistle very similar to the adult call, but higher pitched. The nestlings’ loud calls attracted the attention of potential nest predators on three occasions. A Beautiful Jay Cyanolyca pulchra discovered the nest once, and a pair of Toucan Barbets Semnornis ramphastinus examined it twice. Despite becoming very excited, none of the potential predators entered the cavity. The adult nunbirds never removed faecal sacks from the nest. Faecal matter accumulated in the hole, but this did not seem to attract insects and Figure 4. Recently fledged White-faced Nunbird Hapaloptila had no apparent negative affect on the nestlings. castanea (Nicholas Athanas) Fledging The first nestling left the nest between 12h13 and call until being fed. Several minutes later both 15h08 on 22 July. The actual fledging was not birds flew off. witnessed, but the bird was subsequently found The fledglings were very similar in appearance c.15 m from the nest on a bare branch, calling very to the adults (see Fig. 4). The bill was slightly loudly.The female was nearby with food and shortly shorter and the tail was still growing, being only fed the nestling. Thereafter, the nestling began about half as long as that of the adults. Plumage moving away from the nest area, making short but was almost identical, although some grey feathers strong flights between large branches. Occasionally were visible in the orange breast. The second the female fed the fledgling, which vocalised almost fledgling was clearly less developed than the first. continuously, usually a series of loud whistles, but It had an even shorter tail, more grey on the breast also giving the begging call when a parent was and was not as strong a flyer. nearby with food. The adults continued to feed the remaining nestling after the first bird had fledged. Post-fledging The second chick fledged next morning. It came The birds did not return to the nest area after to the nest entrance begging loudly, though no adult fledging. They were seen regularly over the next was visible nearby. After 20 seconds it flew directly few days within 200–400 m of the nest, and the to a bare branch over the landslide c.12 m away. parents continued feeding them. They were fairly After a few minutes it began giving loud whistles. easy to find because the family was very vocal. After After 15 minutes the male arrived with food, and c.1 week, they were seen only occasionally, with a the fledgling immediately commenced the begging handful of sightings over the next few months. There was one report in November 2000 of all four

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Cotinga 22 Breeding biology of White-faced Nunbird in Ecuador

birds, suggesting that both young survived, despite Acknowledgements the second being less developed at fledging. We thank Tandayapa Bird Lodge (especially Iain The following year, in September–December Campbell) for providing accommodation and board 2001, there were numerous observations of a pair of during our work, and Robert Williams for locating the H. castanea in the vicinity of the old nest. However, nest. Paul Salaman kindly critiqued the draft and no evidence of breeding was noted and the old nest offered many suggestions; he also provided the useful cavity was not reused. specimen photographs from the Natural History Museum (Tring). Sara Salaman proof-read the Spanish abstract. Discussion Our observations are consistent with published data 3 References concerning the breeding biology of the Bucconidae , 1. Hilty, S. L. & Brown, W. L. (1986) A guide to the with a few exceptions. First, the pair began nesting birds of Colombia. Princeton, NJ: Princeton during the wettest months at Tandayapa (normally University Press. March–May), rather than at the start of the dry 2. Miller, A. H. (1963) Seasonal activity and ecology of season. Second, there was no collar of leaves or twigs the avifauna of an American equatorial cloud placed around the nest entrance. Indeed, there was forest. Univ. Calif. Publ. Zool. 66: 1–74. never any obvious attempt by the pair to conceal 3. Rasmussen, P. C. & Collar, N. J. (2002). Family the nest. Third, the young H. castanea remained in Bucconidae (). In: del Hoyo, J., Elliott, A. the nest for the exceptionally long period of 37–38 & Sargatal, J. (eds.) Handbook of the birds of the days, whereas previous studies have found a world,7.Barcelona: Lynx Edicions. nestling period of just 20–30 days. Finally, the newly fledged nunbirds were never seen to take Nicholas Athanas Tropical Birding, Reina Victoria 1684 y La Pinta, Ed. food from the bill of a parent in sally-flight. Food Santiago 1, Dep. 501, Quito, Ecuador. E-mail: was always given directly into the gape of the [email protected]. fledgling. Judy Davis P.O. Box 817, Sierra Vista, Arizona, 85636, USA. E- mail: [email protected].

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Cotinga 22

The threatened birds of the río Frío Valley, Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Colombia Ralf Strewe and Cristobal Navarro Cotinga 22 (2004): 47–55

La cuenca del rió Frió es un área de 37.000 ha ubicado en la vertiente occidental de la Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, dpto. Magdalena, Colombia. Después de más de 80 años de las investiga- ciones de Todd & Carriker16 sobre la avifauna de la Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, estudios amplios fueron realizados en bosques húmedos premontanos y montanos, y páramo, en elevaciones desde 650 hasta 4.200 m, en la cuenca del rió Frío, entre el 2000–2001. Se presenta un listado anotado de las 285 especies de la zona y se colectaron datos de especies endémicas y con rangos restringidos. Se analiza la situación de 13 especies amenazadas. Basado en los resultados se identificaron prioridades de conservación, se diseñó un corredor de conservación y se desarrollo una estrategia de conservación de hábitats y nominado la cuenca del río Frío como Área Importante para la Conservación de Aves en Colombia (AICA).

The Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta is an isolated humid montane and pre-montane forest, and pyramid-shaped massif on the Caribbean coast of tropical humid forest, in the lower valley. Below 500 north-east Colombia, close to the border with m very little forest persists, as the land is Venezuela. The twin snow-covered peaks of Pico intensively farmed and used for cattle grazing, Simon Bolivar and Pico Cristobal reach 5,775 m whilst the sea-level plain (which naturally held just 46 km from the Caribbean coast, representing tropical lowland forest) is nearly totally covered by the world’s highest coastal massif. The Sierra intensive banana plantations. At 500–2,000 m, the Nevada is separated to the south from the Central valley represents a mosaic of humid pre-montane Andean Cordillera by 330 km of floodplains, and forest fragments, shade-coffee plantations and from the Serranía de Perijá to its east and south- pasture. From 2,000 m to the treeline still larger east by the low valleys of the ríos Ranchería and forest fragments exist. Field work was centred on César. The massif is among the world’s most El Congo reserve (10o59’N 74o04’W; c.40 ha), owned important continental avian endemism centres, by Fundación Pro-Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, with 18 endemic species and a further 55 endemic which protects one of the last forest fragments at subspecies, wholly restricted to this montane area. 650–1,050 m in the middle río Frío Valley. The Sierra Nevada Endemic Bird Area (EBA 036) The limits of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta has 27 restricted-range species, of which nine occur National Park are above 2,000 m and the Indian within additional EBAs. Eight bird species of the reserve of Kogi-Malayo extends above 2,500 m. eco-region are restricted to EBA 035, Caribbean Access to the higher parts of the valley, above Colombia and Venezuela16. 2,500 m, were limited during the study period, due We present data from the first ornithological to problems with permissions from the indigenous survey of the río Frío Valley, on the western slope of the massif, collected during field work for a project entitled ‘Habitat conservation of migratory and resident bird species in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta’, conducted in 2000–2001 on the northern and western slopes of the massif. Given the avifaunal importance of the area, we present the status of all bird species recorded in the area, as well as more detailed information for threatened species.

Study area and methods The 37,000-ha río Frío watershed lies on the west flank of the Santa Marta massif, in the municipal- ity of Ciénaga, dpto. Magdalena (Fig. 1). The river’s source is in the páramo, at the lagoons of Chubdula (10o54’N 73o53’W; c.3,900 m), from where the steep- sided V-shaped valley descends to the plain of the Ciénaga Grande. The valley encompasses the Figure 1. Map of the río Frío valley, Sierra Nevada de Santa following life zones: páramo, above 3,500 m, and Marta, north-east Colombia.

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3

2

4 5

6 8

7

9

10

11

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community within the reserve boundaries, and the within the Sierra Nevada Endemic Bird Area (EBA security situation. 036). Three others are range-restricted species Darlington3 conducted 14 months of ornitholog- known from EBA 036, but also occur in other EBAs. ical work in dry and humid parts of the coastal In total, 55 Santa Marta endemic subspecies were plain near the small town of Río Frío. In the pre- recorded in the study area (Appendix 1). montane and montane zones, the closest areas that have been surveyed are on the northern slope of the Threatened species Sierra Nevada, along the San Lorenzo ridge Accounts are presented for 13 threatened species of (11o06’N 74o04’W) in the vicinity of Santa Marta the río Frío valley, including 11 species considered city, where ornithological studies have continued globally threatened according to BirdLife since the publication of Todd & Carriker17. The International1 (one Critical, two Endangered, three latter intensively collected in this area in the early Vulnerable, five Near Threatened), and two 20th century, over a period of several years and at additional species from the Colombian Red Data different sites and elevations within the Sierra Book11. Nevada. We visited the río Frío valley on seven Black-fronted Wood-quail Odontophorus atrifrons occasions, each of 5–10 days (over a total of Owing to its small and fragmented range and 48 days), in June 2000–July 2001, and surveyed habitat loss, considered Vulnerable1,5. In the Sierra different habitats at 650–4,200 m. Standardised Nevada, Black-fronted Wood-quail is principally methodologies and techniques for assessing bird known from the San Lorenzo ridge4,8,17.Within the population abundance were utilised, namely mist- río Frío Valley it was uncommon in pre-montane netting (15 x 12 m nets), fixed-radius point counts, forest fragments and shade-grown coffee non-systematic field observations and tape- plantations, at 850–2,500 m. At El Congo reserve recordings. Knowledge exchange with local six groups were noted calling at dusk and dawn. residents concerning the sierra’s avifauna produced additional information. Blue-billed Curassow Crax alberti We confirmed the presence of a small population of Results this Critically Endangered Colombian endemic In total, 285 bird species of 42 families were within the río Frío Valley1,2. At El Congo reserve recorded in the middle and upper río Frío Valley three pairs were found, with observations in (Appendix 1). The checklist for the Sierra Nevada primary forest and males heard calling in de Santa Marta region includes 672 species (Strewe January–March 2001. Juveniles were observed by unpubl.). Characteristic families are Trochilidae local people outside the reserve boundaries, in the (20 species), Thraupidae (27 species) and, lower Congo Valley, at 650 m, in April 2001, especially, Tyrannidae (43 species). We collected indicating that breeding still occurs in the area. A information on 18 species with limited ranges group of five was seen by locals, c.20 km from El Congo reserve, at Piedras Blancas, within the main río Frío Valley, at 750 m, in 1999 (I. Padierna pers. Figure 2. Santa Marta Antpitta bangsi (Ralf Strewe) comm.). Within its limited range, the species is Figure 3. Blossomcrown Anthocephala floriceps (Ralf Strewe) declining due to and hunting pressure. A species-focused protection campaign is Figure 4. Santa Marta Brush-finch Atlapetes melanocephalus underway, and hunting is now controlled by local (Ralf Strewe) authorities within the valley. Figure 5. White-lored Warbler conspicillatus (Ralf Strewe) Andean Condor Vultur gryphus Figure 6. White-tailed Starfrontlet Coeligena phalerata Treated as Endangered in the Colombian Red Data (Ralf Strewe) Book11.We recorded three at 3,500–4,000 m in April Figure 7. Santa Marta Warbler Basileuterus basilicus 2001. Local people reported the species lower, at (Ralf Strewe) 2,200 m, in a very steep and narrow part of the río Frío Valley, where it may also breed. Figure 8. Rufous-headed Spinetail fuscorufa (Ralf Strewe) Semi-collared Hawk Accipiter collaris Figure 9. Streak-capped Spinetail Cranioleuca hellmayri This little-known raptor, considered Near (Ralf Strewe) Threatened1,11,was recorded in the río Frío Valley, Figure 10. Yellow-crowned Whitestart Myioborus flavivertex with individuals or pairs hunting at forest borders (Ralf Strewe) and over shade-grown coffee plantations, at Figure 11. Santa Marta Tapaculo sanctaemartae 1,050–1,600 m. The species is rare and highly (Ralf Strewe) sensitive to human disturbance.

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Black-and-chestnut Eagle Oroaetus isidori Santa Marta Antpitta Grallaria bangsi Considered Endangered in the Colombian Red Inhabits humid montane forest and mature Data Book11, but not treated as globally secondary woodland at 1,200–2,400 m and is threatened1.From the río Frío Valley there is only considered globally Near Threatened1, and one record, of a pair soaring over montane forest, at Vulnerable in the Colombian Red Data Book11.A 2,800 m, in April 2001. new locality, not mentioned by Kattan & Renjifo9, was found in the río Frío valley, where five were Military Macaw Ara militaris heard calling along a 4.5-km trail in April 2001, and In the middle and upper río Frío Valley this one was caught, in March 2001, in a pre-montane Vulnerable1,11 species is only present during the forest patch at 1,800–2,400 m. breeding season (December–July). Altitudinal migration has been confirmed for the species on the Santa Marta Bush-tyrant Myiotheretes pernix north slope of the Sierra Nevada (Strewe & Molina This Endangered Santa Marta endemic was unpubl.). Several nests were found in forest recently known only from the San Lorenzo ridge1,15. fragments at 800–1,600 m. One at El Congo reserve An additional population was found in montane was intensively studied in 2001. The nest was forest at 2,400–3,000 m in the upper río Frío valley. located in an abandoned woodpecker hole, 12 m Three were seen over 2.5 km in the naturally open above ground in a Ceiba sp., within open primary canopy of ridge-top primary forest, in April 2001. forest on a steep slope at 900 m. Two juveniles departed the cavity in May 2001. The breeding White-lored Warbler Basileuterus conspicillatus population of c.12 pairs, with groups of up to 28 Considered globally Near Threatened1, and observed in December 2000, but is still threatened Endangered in the Colombian Red Data Book10. in the valley by habitat loss and domestic trade This Santa Marta endemic is quite common (on the (two cases noted in 2001). basis of mist-netting and point counts) in different habitats, from primary forest, forest borders, older Santa Marta Parakeet Pyrrhura viridicata second growth to shade-coffee plantations, at This highly range-restricted and Endangered 650–2,200 m in the valley. It tolerates a degree of species is best known in the Sierra Nevada from a habitat degradation and is among the most historical site at Taquima, dpto. La Guajira, and common endemics in the pre-montane zone. At El from recent records on the San Lorenzo ridge1,14.An Congo reserve the species is sympatric with additional population was discovered in the río Frío Rufous-capped Warbler B. rufifrons and Golden- valley, in montane forests at 2,600–3,200 m, in crowned Warbler B. culicivorus, sometimes within April 2001. On several occasions, two flocks of eight the same mixed-species flocks. and 12 individuals were observed feeding in the canopy of undisturbed montane forest. Hunting Santa Marta Warbler Basileuterus basilicus pressure by local residents occurs, as we observed Considered globally Near Threatened1, and the flight feathers of several individuals in a Kogi Vulnerable in the Colombian Red Data Book12. This Indian settlement (see also Rodríguez-Mahecha & Santa Marta endemic is known from four sites on Renjifo14). the massif, including the río Frío valley, where it is uncommon (2–4 individuals following mixed- Blossomcrown Anthocephala floriceps species flocks) in montane forest with dense This Vulnerable Colombian endemic was bamboo (Chusquea sp.) stands at 2,300–2,400 m. uncommon in the valley at 850–1,700 m, especially Birds were caught at 2,600 m in April 2001. at El Congo reserve1,11. Individuals were observed feeding low at forest borders, at Psychotria flowers Other noteworthy species (Rubiaceae), and both sexes were caught in primary forest at 1,600 m. White-tailed Starfrontlet Coeligena phalerata This Santa Marta endemic is known from six sites Rusty-headed Spinetail Synallaxis fuscorufa on the northern slope, including the San Lorenzo Santa Marta endemic considered globally Near ridge at 1,600–2,400 m8,17. The first records from Threatened1 and Vulnerable in the Colombian Red the río Frío Valley were from montane forest above Data Book11. Recorded in humid shrubby forest 2,000 m, where both sexes were caught in primary borders and montane forest above 2,200 m within forest in April 2001. the valley. Five were caught in dense undergrowth at 2,600 m. Individuals frequently joined mixed- Santa Marta Woodstar astreans species foraging flocks as a core species. This little-known endemic is principally known from the San Lorenzo ridge, in the pre-montane zone. We recorded it for the first time on the western slope of the massif, in the río Frío Valley,

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where individuals were observed feeding on Inga zone. Due to international demand in the late flowers and hunting insects from high exposed 1970s, marijuana cultivation intensified, resulting perches in shade-coffee plantations at 900–1,600 m. in the greatest loss of forest in the río Frío Valley. Furthermore, severe environmental damage Santa Marta Wren monticola resulted when the illegal crops were subsequently Santa Marta endemic known only from collections sprayed with herbicide by the government6. Loss of made by Carriker17. Thus, we made the first record vegetation cover and inadequate protection for 90 years in the upper río Frío Valley, at 3,600 m, systems, especially in the páramo and montane where a pair was observed and tape-recorded in a zone, has serious consequences for the region’s small montane forest patch (c.2 ha) amidst heavily water catchment, as the río Frío is an important burned and overgrazed páramo. Only one other freshwater source for lowland communities, and for such intact forest patch was found in an area of the sensitive mangrove ecosystem of the Ciénaga c.5,000 ha, some 12 km distant, where we unsuc- Grande. cessfully searched for the species. The wren’s Habitat loss within the different vegetation habitat is extremely isolated, due to burning and zones of the valley is caused by various factors. overgrazing. Thus, based on our work in the río Frío Those habitats of the high montane areas are Valley, T. monticola appears to be threatened, due threatened by management of the natural to its very narrow distribution, low population timberline scrub and forest–páramo ecotone density and habitat destruction. More data are through seasonal burning and grazing by farmers required concerning the habitat condition of other and indigenous people. Montane and pre-montane páramo and high montane forests elsewhere on the forests are cleared for agriculture (coffee massif. cultivation, cattle ranching), and narcotics cultivation. Ongoing destruction of natural habitats Santa Marta Tapaculo Scytalopus sanctamartae is threatening the resident avifauna, especially the A little-known endemic which occurs in the pre- endemics with limited ranges, low population montane zone of the massif. On the western slope, densities and naturally localised distributions within the río Frío valley, it is uncommon in dense resulting from specific habitat preferences. undergrowth of almost undisturbed forest. At El The Sierra Nevada was declared a Biosphere Congo reserve several were caught and four pairs Reserve by UNESCO, and has been partially were recorded along a 2-km trail. As Stattersfield et protected by the 3,830 km2 Sierra Nevada de Santa al.16 noted, the species might be threatened by Marta National Park, which was declared in 1977. habitat loss, as it occurs at low density in a similar Nevertheless, despite such protection, in the upper altitudinal range (750–2,000 m) to Basileuterus río Frío valley forest loss continues almost conspicillatus. unabated, demonstrating that formal designation is inadequate and has failed to protect ever-dwindling Five other Santa Marta endemics were recorded in natural habitats. El Congo reserve functions only the study area: Streak-capped Spinetail as a secure nesting site for Ara militaris, as a Cranioleuca hellmayri (1,600–3,000 m), Brown- refuge for the tiny Crax alberti population, and rumped Tapaculo Scytalopus latebricola other threatened and endemic species in the valley, (2,200–3,800 m), Yellow-crowned Whitestart but is too small to conserve viable populations. A Myioborus flavivertex (1,200–2,800 m), Santa conservation project focusing on the coffee zone of Marta Mountain-tanager Anisognathus the middle río Frío is ongoing and aims to create a melanogenys (1,500–2,900 m) and Santa Marta conservation corridor connecting natural habitats Brush-finch Atlapetes melanocephalus. The latter and shade-grown coffee plantations. Analysis of the occupies a broad altitudinal range, from 900 to vegetation types and actual forest cover in the 2,800 m, due to the lack of competition from valley was performed using extensive information congenerics in the Sierra Nevada. All five endemics held by, and the GIS capabilities of, Fundación Pro- were found in different habitats, from secondary Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, and has enabled forest, forest borders to primary forest. the remaining forest islands to be plotted and their degree of isolation to be assessed. These data will Discussion be used to develop a habitat management strategy Currently, less than 15% of the sierra’s forests for the valley, addressing identified threats to remain and these are seriously threatened. migrant and resident birds, and to implement a Historically, settlers arrived in the Sierra Nevada network of private reserves. Other project de Santa Marta during the 1950s, as a result of objectives are to commercially produce bird- political violence in Colombia’s interior. In the río friendly coffee, and to establish an educational Frío Valley, forests were cleared to grow bananas in programme involving local communities in nature the lowlands, to create pastures for cattle and other conservation and sustainable agronomy. The río livestock or to grow shade coffee in the pre-montane Frío Valley has been designated an Important Bird

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Area (IBA), under a joint BirdLife International Franco-Maya, A. M., Amaya-Espinel, J. D., and Alexander von Humboldt Institute (Bogotá) Kattan, G. H. & López-Lanús, B. (eds.) Libro rojo programme. de aves de Colombia.Bogotá: Instituto de Investigación de Recursos Biológicos Alexander Acknowledgements von Humboldt & Ministerio del Medio Ambiente. Financial support for this study was provided by the 11. Renjifo, L. M., Franco-Maya, A. M., Amaya- National Fish & Wildlife Service Fund (USA), Espinel, J. D., Kattan, G. H. & López-Lanús, B. CIM/GTZ (Germany), the French Agency for (eds.) Libro rojo de aves de Colombia. Bogotá: International Development, and Fundación Pro-Sierra Instituto de Investigación de Recursos Biológicos Nevada de Santa Marta. We are grateful for advice and Alexander von Humboldt & Ministerio del Medio assistance from the staff of El Congo reserve, Ambiente. communities in the río Frío Valley and the following: 12. Renjifo, L. M. & Salaman P. G. W. (2002) Wilson Blanco, Olga Ines Ramirez Gomes, Dorotea Basileuterus basilicus. In: Renjifo, L. M., Franco- Cardona Hernández, Gheynner Lobatón, Fernando Maya, A. M., Amaya-Espinel, J. D., Kattan, G. H. Salazar Holguín, Miguel Sanchez and Sandra & López-Lanús, B. (eds.) Libro rojo de aves de Sanchez. Many thanks to Carl Downing and Paul Colombia. Bogotá: Instituto de Investigación de Salaman for comments on the manuscript and Guy Recursos Biológicos Alexander von Humboldt & Kirwan for editorial assistance. Ministerio del Medio Ambiente. 13. Rodríguez-Mahecha, J. V. & Hernández-Camacho, References J. I. (2002) Loros de Colombia.Bogotá: 1. BirdLife International (2000) Threatened birds of Conservation International. the world.Cambridge, UK: BirdLife 14. Rodríguez-Mahecha, J. V. & Renjifo, L. M. (2002) International & Barcelona: Lynx Edicions. Pyrrhura viridicata. In: Renjifo, L. M., Franco- 2. Cuervo, A. M. (2002) Crax alberti. In: Renjifo, L. Maya, A. M., Amaya-Espinel, J. D., Kattan, G. H. M., Franco-Maya, A. M., Amaya-Espinel, J. D., & López-Lanús, B. (eds.) Libro rojo de aves de Kattan, G. H. & López-Lanús, B. (eds.) Libro rojo Colombia. Bogotá: Instituto de Investigación de de aves de Colombia.Bogotá: Instituto de Recursos Biológicos Alexander von Humboldt & Investigación de Recursos Biológicos Alexander Ministerio del Medio Ambiente. von Humboldt & Ministerio del Medio Ambiente. 15. Salaman, P. G. W., Amaya-Espinel, J. D. & Renjifo, 3. Darlington, P. J. (1931) Notes on the birds of Río L. M. (2002) Myiotheretes pernix. In: Renjifo, L. Frío (near Santa Marta), Magdalena, Colombia. M., Franco-Maya, A. M., Amaya-Espinel, J. D., Bull. Mus. Comp. Zool., Harvard 71: 347–421. Kattan, G. H. & López-Lanús, B. (eds.) Libro rojo 4. Fjeldså, J. & Krabbe, N. (1990) Birds of the high de aves de Colombia.Bogotá: Instituto de Andes. Copenhagen: Zool. Mus., Univ. Investigación de Recursos Biológicos Alexander Copenhagen & Svendborg: Apollo Books. von Humboldt & Ministerio del Medio Ambiente. 5. Franco-Amaya, A. M. & Amaya-Espinel, J. D. 16. Stattersfield, A. J., Crosby, M. J., Long, A. J. & (2002) Odontophorus atrifrons. In: Renjifo, L. M., Wege, D. C. (1998) Endemic Bird Areas of the Franco-Maya, A. M., Amaya-Espinel, J. D., world: priorities for biodiversity conservation. Kattan, G. H. & López-Lanús, B. (eds.) Libro rojo Cambridge, UK: BirdLife International de aves de Colombia.Bogotá: Instituto de (Conservation Series 7). Investigación de Recursos Biológicos Alexander 17. Todd, W. E. & Carriker, M. A. (1922) The birds of von Humboldt & Ministerio del Medio Ambiente. the Santa Marta region of Colombia: a study in 6. Fundación Pro-Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta altitudinal distribution. Ann. Carnegie Mus. 14. (2000) Evaluación ecológica rápida: definición de áreas críticas para la conservación en la Sierra Ralf Strewe Nevada de Santa Marta—Colombia. Santa Fundación Pro-Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Calle Marta: Fundación Pro-Sierra Nevada de Santa 17 No. 3–83, Santa Marta, Colombia. Marta, Ministerio del Medio Ambiente— E-mail: [email protected]. UAESPNN & Nature Conservancy. 7. Hilty, S. L. (2003) Birds of Venezuela. Princeton, Cristobal Navarro NJ: Princeton University Press. Fundación Pro-Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Calle 8. Hilty, S. L. & Brown, W. L. (1986) A guide to the 17 No. 3–83, Santa Marta, Colombia. birds of Colombia. Princeton, NJ: Princeton E-mail: [email protected]. University Press. 9. Kattan, G. H. & Renjifo L. M. (2002) Grallaria Appendix 1. List of the birds of the río Frío Valley, dpto. bangsi. In: Renjifo, L. M., Franco-Maya, A. M., Magdalena, Colombia. Taxonomy and order follows Hilty 8 7 Amaya-Espinel, J. D., Kattan, G. H. & López- and Brown (subspecies) and Hilty . Codes in parentheses: Lanús, B. (eds.) Libro rojo de aves de Colombia. Nm = Nearctic migrant, +Nm = resident and Nearctic 16 Bogotá: Instituto de Investigación de Recursos migrant populations, with EBAs (Endemic Bird Areas) as Biológicos Alexander von Humboldt & Ministerio follows: Coastal Central Mountains of Venezuela 032; del Medio Ambiente. Andes Mérida 033; Caribbean Colombia and Venezuela 10. López-Lanús, B. & Renjifo, L. M. (2002) 035; Santa Marta Mountains 036; Nechi lowlands 037; Basileuterus conspicillatus. In: Renjifo, L. M., Colombian Oriental Andes 038; Inter-Andean Colombian valleys 040. Endemic subspecies are included.

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General abundance status: Bolborhynchus lineola Barred Parakeet u s, t c common; detected on >90% of days Touit batavicus Lilac-tailed Parrotlet u s, t f fairly common; detected on 50–90% of days Amazona mercenaria Scaly-naped Parrot f s, t u uncommon; detected on 10–50% of days Pionus menstruus Blue-headed Parrot c s, t, p r rare; detected on <10% of days Pionus sordidus saturatus Red-billed Parrot c s, t, p Evidence: s = sight record; t = tape-recorded; m = mist-netted; Pyrrhura viridicata (EBA 36) Santa Marta Parakeet u s, t, p p = photographed. Piaya cayana Squirrel Cuckoo c s, t, m, p Crotophaga ani Smooth-billed Ani c s, t, m, p Scientific name / English name Status Evidence Tapera naevia Striped Cuckoo f s, t Crypturellus soui Little Tinamou u s, t Otus choliba Tropical Screech-owl u s, t Ardea alba Great Egret r s Glaucidium brasilianum Ferruginous Pygmy-owl f s, t Bubulcus ibis u s Pulsatrix perspicillata Spectacled Owl u s, t, p Butorides striatus Striated r s Strix virgata Mottled Owl c s, t Tigrisoma fasciatum Fasciated Tiger-heron r s Lurocalis semitorquatus Semi-collared Nighthawk u s, t Cathartes aura (+Nm) Turkey Vulture c s Caprimulgus longirostris Band-winged Nightjar f s, t Coragyps atratus Black Vulture c s Chordeiles acutipennis Lesser Nighthawk r s, t ,m, p Sarcoramphus papa King Vulture f s Nyctidromus albicollis Pauraque f s, t, m, p Vultur gryphus Andean Condor u s, p Streptoprocne zonaris White-collared Swift c s, t, p Chondrohierax unicinctus Hook-billed Kite r s Streptoprocne rutila Chestnut-collared Swift f s, t Harpagus bidentatus Double-toothed Kite u s Chaetura pelagica (Nm) Chimney Swift r s Accipiter collaris Semi-collared Hawk u s, t Chaetura cinereiventris Grey-rumped Swift r s, m, p Accipiter bicolor Bicoloured Hawk r s Chaetura spinicaudus Band-rumped Swift u s Accipiter superciliosus r s Aeronautes montivagus White-tipped Swift u s Accipiter striatus Sharp-shinned Hawk u s Panyptila cayennensis Lesser Swallow-tailed Swift u s, t, p Buteo nitidus Grey-lined Hawk f s, t longirostris sussurus Buteo magnirostris Roadside Hawk c s, t Western Long-tailed Hermit f s, t, m, p Buteo leucorrhous White-rumped Hawk u s, t Phaethornis augusti curiosus Sooty-capped Hermit u s, m, p Buteo platypterus (Nm) Broad-winged Hawk f s, p Phaethornis strigularis Stripe-throated Hermit u s, t, m, p Buteo brachyurus Short-tailed Hawk f s Florisuga mellivora White-necked Jacobin f s, m, p Buteo albonotatus Zone-tailed Hawk u s Colibri delphinae Brown Violetear f s, t, m, p Buteo jamaicensis (Nm) Red-tailed Hawk r s Colibri thalassinus Green Violetear c s, t, m, p Oroaetus isidori Black-and-chestnut Eagle r s, p Colibri coruscans Sparkling Violetear c s, t, m, p Herpetotheres cachinnans Laughing Falcon f s, t Chlorostilbon gibsoni Red-billed Emerald f s, t, m, p Micrastur ruficollis zonothorax Chlorostilbon russatus (EBA 36, 38) Coppery Emerald u s, m, p Barred Forest-falcon u s, t, m, p Thalurania colombica Purple-crowned Woodnymph c s, m, p Micrastur semitorquatus Collared Forest-falcon u s, t, m, p Lepidopyga goudotii Shining-green Hummingbird u s Falco sparverius American Kestrel f s Amazilia saucerrottei Steely-vented Hummingbird u s, m, p Falco columbarius (Nm) Merlin r s Amazilia tzacatl Rufous-tailed Hummingbird c s, t, m, p Falco rufigularis Bat Falcon u s, p Chalybura buffonii aeneicauda Falco peregrinus (Nm) Peregrine Falcon r s White-vented Plumeleteer c s, t, m, p Penelope argyrotis colombiana Band-tailed c s, t Anthocephala floriceps floriceps (EBA 36, 40) Chamaepetes goudotii sanctamarthae Blossomcrown u s, t, m, p Sickle-winged Guan f s, t Lafresnaya lafresnayi liriope Mountain Velvetbreast f s, m, p Crax alberti (EBA 36, 37) Blue-billed Curassow u s, t Coeligena phalerata (EBA 36) cristatus littoralis Crested Bobwhite u s, t White-tailed Starfrontlet u s, m, p Odontophorus atrifrons atrifrons (EBA 36, 38) Metallura tyrianthina districta Tyrian Metaltail f s, t, m, p Black-fronted Wood-quail c s, t Heliomaster longirostris Long-billed Starthroat u s, m, p Tringa solitaria (Nm) Solitary Sandpiper r s Chaetocercus astreans (EBA 36) Actitis macularia (Nm) Spotted Sandpiper u s Santa Marta Woodstar u s, t, p Columba fasciata Band-tailed Pigeon f s, t fulgidus festatus (EBA 32, 33, 36) Columba speciosa Scaled Pigeon f s, t White-tipped f s, t, p Columba cayennensis Pale-vented Pigeon u s, t personatus sanctamartae f s, t Columbina passerina Common Ground-dove r s, m, p Trogon caligatus Northern Violaceous Trogon c s, t, p Columbina talpacoti Ruddy Ground-dove u s Megaceryle torquata Ringed Kingfisher r s, t, m, p Claravis pretiosa Blue Ground-dove u s, t, m, p Chloroceryle americana Green Kingfisher f s, m, p Leptotila verreauxi White-tipped Dove c s, t, m, p Momotus momota Blue-crowned Motmot f s, t, m, p Geotrygon montana Ruddy Quail-dove u s, t, m, p Galbula ruficauda Rufous-tailed Jacamar f s, t, m, p Geotrygon linearis infusca Lined Quail-dove f s, t, m, p mystacalis Moustached u s, m, p Ara militaris Military Macaw f s, t, p Aulacorhynchus calorhynchus (EBA 32, 33, 36) Aratinga wagleri Scarlet-fronted Parakeet c s, t, p Yellow-billed Toucanet f s, t Brotogeris jugularis Orange-chinned Parakeet c s, t, m, p Aulacorhynchus prasinus lautus Emerald Toucanet f s, t

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Pteroglossus torquatus Collared Aracari f s, t, m, p Elaenia flavogaster Yellow-bellied Elaenia c s, t, m, p Ramphastos sulfuratus Keel-billed Toucan c s, t, m, p Elaenia chiriquensis Lesser Elaenia f s, t Picumnus squamulatus Scaled Piculet f s, t, m, p Elaenia frantzii browni Mountain Elaenia f s, t, m, p Piculus rubiginosus alleni Golden-olive Woodpecker c s, t, m, p Mionectes olivaceus galbinus Dryocopus lineatus Lineated Woodpecker f s, t, m, p Olive-striped Flycatcher c s, t, m, p Melanerpes rubricapillus Red-crowned Woodpecker c s, t, m, p Mionectes oleaginus Ochre-bellied Flycatcher c s, t, m, p Veniliornis fumigatus Smoky-brown Woodpecker u s Mecocerculus leucophrys montensis Campephilus melanoleucos White-throated Tyrannulet f s, t, m, p Crimson-crested Woodpecker f s, t, m, p Leptopogon amaurocephalus Sepia-capped Flycatcher c s, t, m, p Campylorhamphus trochilirostris Atalotriccus pilaris Pale-eyed Pygmy-tyrant f s, t, m, p Red-billed Scythebill u s Hemitriccus granadensis lehmanni Dendrocincla fuliginosa Plain-brown Woodcreeper f s, t, m, p Black-throated Tody-tyrant u s, t, m, p Xiphorhynchus susurrans Cocoa Woodcreeper c s, t, m, p Todirostrum cinereum Common Tody-flycatcher u s, t, m, p lacrymiger sanctaemartae Rhynchocyclus olivaceus Olivaceous Flatbill u s, t, m, p Spot-crowned Woodcreeper u s, t, m, p Tolmomyias sulphurescens Yellow-olive Flycatcher r s, t, m, p Xiphocolaptes promeropirhynchus Platyrinchus mystaceus White-throated Spadebill r s, m, p Strong-billed Woodcreeper u s, t Myiophobus fasciatus Bran-coloured Flycatcher u s, m, p Asthenes wyatti sanctaemartae Pyrrhomyias cinnamomea assimilis Streak-backed u s, t Cinnamon Flycatcher c s, t, p Synallaxis albescens nesiotis Pale-breasted Spinetail c s, t, m, p Contopus cooperi (Nm) Olive-sided Flycatcher u s, p Synallaxis fuscorufa (EBA 36) Rusty-headed Spinetail f s, t, m, p Contopus virens (Nm) Eastern Wood-pewee u s, m, p Cranioleuca hellmayri (EBA 36) Contopus cinereus Tropical Pewee r s, t Streak-capped Spinetail f s, t, m, p Empidonax virescens (Nm) Acadian Flycatcher u s, t, m, p Premnoplex brunnescens coloratus Empidonax traillii (Nm) Willow Flycatcher r s, m, p Spotted Barbtail u s, t Empidonax alnorum (Nm) Alder Flycatcher f s, t, m, p Anabacerthia striaticollis anxia Sayornis nigricans Black Phoebe f s Montane Foliage-gleaner c s, t, m, p Attila spadiceus Bright-rumped Attila f s, t, m, p Automolus rubiginosus rufipectus Myiarchus tuberculifer Dusky-capped Flycatcher c s, t, m, p Ruddy Foliage-gleaner f s, t, m, p Pitangus sulphuratus Great Kiskadee c s, t, m, p Xenops rutilans phelpsi Streaked Xenops u s, t, m, p Megarhynchus pitangua Boat-billed Flycatcher u s, t, m, p Xenops minutus Plain Xenops f s, t, m, p Myiozetetes cayanensis Rusty-margined Flycatcher f s, t Sclerurus albigularis propinquus Myiozetetes similis Social Flycatcher c s, t, m, p Grey-throated Leafscraper u s, t, m, p Myiodynastes maculatus Streaked Flycatcher c s, t, m, p Drymophila caudata Long-tailed Antbird c s, t, m, p Myiodynastes chrysocephalus cinerascens Thamnophilus punctatus Western Slaty-antshrike f s, t, m, p Golden-crowned Flycatcher c s, t Myrmotherula schisticolor sanctaemartae Myiotheretes pernix (EBA 36) Santa Marta Flycatcher u s, t, p Slaty Antwren u s, m, p Ochthoeca rufipectoralis Rufous-breasted Chat-tyrant f s, t Grallaria bangsi (EBA 36) Santa Marta Antpitta u s, t, m, p Ochthoeca diadema jesupi Yellow-bellied Chat-tyrant u s, t Grallaria guatimalensis Scaled Antpitta u s, t Legatus leucophaius Piratic Flycatcher r s Grallaria rufula spatiator Rufous Antpitta u s, t Tyrannus tyrannus (Nm) Eastern Kingbird r s Grallaricula ferrugineipectus ferrugineipectus Tyrannus melancholicus Tropical Kingbird c s, t, m, p Rusty-breasted Antpitta f s, t, m, p subis (Nm) u s Scytalopus sanctaemartae (EBA 36) Stelgidopteryx ruficollis Santa Marta Tapaculo f s, t, m, p Southern Rough-winged Swallow c s, t, m, p Scytalopus latebricola (EBA 036) riparia (Nm) Bank Swallow u s Brown-rumped Tapaculo f s, t rustica (Nm) c s Manacus manacus White-bearded Manakin f s, t, m, p murina Brown-bellied Swallow f s Pipra erythrocephala Golden-headed Manakin u s, t, m, p Cinclus leucocephalus rivularis Schiffornis turdinus Thrush-like Schiffornis f s, t, m, p White-capped Dipper u s rubrocristatus Red-crested Cotinga f s, t Cyanocorax affinis Black-chested Jay c s, t aureopecta decora Campylorhynchus griseus Bicoloured Wren c s, t, m, p Golden-breasted Fruiteater f s, t, m, p Thryothorus rutilus Rufous-breasted Wren u s, t, m, p Pachyramphus cinnamomeus f s, t, m, p Thryothorus rufalbus Rufous-and-white Wren f s, t, m, p Pachyramphus albogriseus Black-and-white Becard u s Troglodytes aedon House Wren c s, t, m, p Tityra semifasciata c s, t, m, p Troglodytes monticola (EBA 36) Santa Marta Wren r s, t Phyllomyias nigrocapillus nigrocapillus Henicorhina leucophrys bangsi Black-capped Tyrannulet u s Grey-breasted Wood-wren c s, t, m, p vilissimus Paltry Tyrannulet u s, t, m, p Microcerculus marginatus corrasus Zimmerius chrysops minimus Southern Nightingale-wren f s, t, m, p Golden-faced Tyrannulet c s, t, m, p Catharus aurantiirostris sierrae Myiopagis gaimardii Forest Elaenia u s, t, m, p Orange-billed Nightingale-thrush f s, t

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Cotinga 22 Threatened birds of the río Frío Valley, Colombia

Catharus fuscater sanctamartae Thraupis palmarum Palm Tanager u s, t, m, p Slaty-backed Nightingale-thrush u s, t Thraupis cyanocephala margaritae Catharus fuscescens (Nm) Veery r s, m, p Blue-capped Tanager f s, t, m, p Catharus minimus (Nm) Grey-cheeked Thrush u s, m, p Thlypopsis fulviceps Fulvous-headed Tanager u s, p Catharus ustulatus (Nm) Swainson’s Thrush f s, m, p Eucometis penicillata Grey-headed Tanager u s, t, m, p Platycichla flavipes Yellow-legged Thrush c s, t, m, p Rhodinocichla rosea Rosy Thrush-tanager f s, t, m, p Turdus olivater sanctamartae Black-hooded Thrush f s, t, m, p Ramphocelus dimidiatus Crimson-backed Tanager c s, t, m, p Turdus grayi Clay-coloured Thrush u s, t Piranga flava faceta Hepatic Tanager u s, p Turdus leucomelas Pale-breasted Thrush c s, t, m, p Piranga rubra (Nm) Summer Tanager f s, m, p Turdus albicollis White-necked Thrush f s, t, m, p Piranga olivacea (Nm) Scarlet Tanager r s, m, p Turdus fuscater cacozelus Great Thrush c s, t, m, p Tachyphonus luctuosus White-shouldered Tanager u s, t, m, p Ramphocaenus melanurus sanctamartae Tachyphonus rufus White-lined Tanager c s, t, m, p Long-billed Gnatwren u s, t, m, p Catamblyrhynchus diadema Plush-capped Finch u s, t Vireo flavifrons (Nm) Yellow-throated Vireo u s, m, p Saltator maximus Buff-throated Saltator c s, t, m, p Vireo olivaceus (Nm+) Red-eyed Vireo u s, t, m, p Saltator striatipectus Streaked Saltator c s, t, m, p Vireo leucophrys Brown-capped Vireo f s, t Pheucticus chrysopeplus laubmanni Yellow Grosbeak u s, t, m, p Hylophilus aurantiifrons Golden-fronted Greenlet f s, t, m, p Pheucticus ludovicianus (Nm) Molothrus bonariensis f s Rose-breasted Grosbeak f s, m, p Scaphidura oryzivora Giant Cowbird u s Cyanocompsa cyanoides Blue-back Grosbeak f s, m, p Psarocolius decumanus Crested Oropendola c s, t, m, p Volatinia jacarina Blue-back Grassquit c s, t, m, p Amblycercus holosericeus Yellow-billed Cacique u s, t Tiaris fuliginosa Sooty Grassquit f s, t, m, p Icterus auricapillus Orange-crowned Oriole r s, t Tiaris obscura Dull-coloured Grassquit f s, m, p Icterus galbula (Nm) Baltimore Oriole u s Oryzoborus funereus ochrogyne Icterus chrysater Yellow-backed Oriole c s, t Thick-billed Seed-finch f s, t, m, p Icterus mesomelas Yellow-tailed Oriole u s, t, m, p Sporophila intermedia Grey Seedeater u s, m, p Mniotilta varia (Nm) Black-and-white Warbler f s, m, p Sporophila nigricollis Yellow-bellied Seedeater c s, t, m, p Vermivora chrysoptera (Nm) Emberizoides herbicola Wedge-tailed Grass-finch u s, t Golden-winged Warbler r s unicolor Plumbeous Sierra-finch f s Vermivora peregrina (Nm) Tennessee Warbler c s, m, p Zonotrichia capensis Rufous-collared Sparrow c s, t, m, p Parula pitiayumi Tropical Parula f s, t, m, p Atlapetes melanocephalus (EBA 36) Dendroica petechia (Nm) Yellow Warbler r s, m, p Santa Marta Brush-finch c s, t, m, p Dendroica fusca (Nm) Blackburnian Warbler f s Buarremon torquatus basilicus Setophaga ruticilla (Nm) American Redstart c s, m, p Stripe-headed Brush-finch f s, m, p Seiurus noveboracensis (Nm) Northern Waterthrush f s, m, p Arremonops conirostris Black-striped Sparrow f s, t, m, p Oporornis philadelphia (Nm) Mourning Warbler r s, m, p Arremon schlegeli Golden-winged Sparrow c s, t, m, p Myioborus miniatus sanctamartae Carduelis psaltria Lesser Goldfinch f s, t Slate-throated Whitestart c s, t, m, p Myioborus flavivertex (EBA 36) Yellow-crowned Whitestart f s, t, m, p Basileuterus culicivorus indignus Golden-crowned Warbler f s, t, m, p Basileuterus conspicillatus (EBA 36) White-lored Warbler c s, t, m, p Basileuterus rufifrons Rufous-capped Warbler c s, t, m, p Basileuterus basilicus (EBA 36) Santa Marta Warbler u s, t, m, p Coereba flaveola Bananaquit c s, t, m, p Diglossa albilatera White-sided f s, t, m, p Diglossa humeralis nocticolor Black Flowerpiercer c s, t, m, p Diglossa sittoides hyperythra Rusty Flowerpiercer u s, m, p rufum Rufous Conebill u s, t Cyanerpes caeruleus Purple Honeycreeper f s, t, m, p Cyanerpes cyaneus Red-legged Honeycreeper u s, t, m, p Dacnis cayana u s, m, p Tersina viridis Swallow Tanager c s, t, m, p Chlorophonia cyanea psittacina Blue-naped Chlorophonia c s, t, m, p Euphonia laniirostris Thick-billed Euphonia c s, t, m, p Tangara gyrola toddi Bay-headed Tanager c s, t, m, p Tangara heinei Black-capped Tanager c s, t Tangara cyanoptera Santa Marta Mountain-tanager f s, t, m, p Thraupis episcopus Blue-grey Tanager c s, t, m, p

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Cotinga 22

Información adicional sobre la avifauna de los estados de Hidalgo y Querétaro, México, incluyendo nuevos registros estatales Fernando González-García, Fernando Puebla Olivares, Sergio Barrios Monterde, Mara Neri Fajardo y Héctor Gómez de Silva Garza Cotinga 22 (2004): 56–64

We present 17 and 29 noteworthy records for the avifaunas of the Mexican states of Hidalgo and Querétaro, respectively. We include records of some species that had been previously reported in both states, but which complement and extend their known geographical and ecological ranges. These data were gathered during February 1993 to May 1996, before and during the construction of a dam located on the Hidalgo–Querétaro border. Noteworthy new state records include: Least Grebe Tachybaptus dominicus, Black-necked Grebe nigricollis,Wood Duck Aix sponsa,Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus, American Avocet Recurvirostra americana,Western Sandpiper Calidris mauri, Great Horned Owl Bubo virginianus, Chestnut-collared Swift Streptoprocne rutila, Nutting’s Flycatcher Myiarchus nuttingi, Brown-crested Flycatcher M. tyrannulus, Rose-throated Becard Pachyramphus aglaiae and Crissal Thrasher Toxostoma crissale. An interesting new record is of European Starling Sturnus vulgaris at one of the few sites where the species has been reported in central Mexico.

México es considerado como uno de los países hipotéticas a través de mapas, aunque carecen de más biodiversos27. Sin embargo, son pocas las registro específico con fechas y localidades entidades federativas del país con inventarios precisas. relativamente completos de su riqueza avifaunís- En el presente trabajo consideramos tanto tica. El conocimiento de la distribución y nuevos registros como nuevas localidades. Lo estacionalidad de la avifauna es básico para la primero se considera como tal en los casos donde creación de áreas protegidas y la elaboración de la localidad de registro cae fuera del área de sus planes de manejo. Los estados de Querétaro distribución propuesta por Howell & Webb21 y y Hidalgo, ubicados en la región centro-oriental que no habían sido reportados para uno u otro del país, poseen una diversidad biológica notable, estado con base en la literatura. Los nuevos propiciada por su compleja topografía y registros y las nuevas localidades aparecen climas10,13,22,36,41. Además dentro de sus límites indicadas después del nombre cada especie. confluyen tres regiones naturales del país: la Presentamos una lista comentada de algunas Sierra Madre Oriental, el Eje Neovolcánico y la especies de aves observadas y/o colectadas, Mesa Central. además de información adicional que consider- A pesar de ello, son relativamente pocos los amos relevante para la avifauna de Querétaro e trabajos ornitológicos realizados en ambos Hidalgo. Los especimenes colectados se estados33 destacando que es sólo hasta los encuentran depositados en el Departamento de últimos años que se han ampliado sus listados Ecología y Comportamiento Animal del Instituto avifaunísticos. Para el estado de Querétaro los de Ecología (INECOL), A.C. en Xalapa, Veracruz, trabajos más recientes5,11,16,19,28–30,34,37 indican una México. riqueza avifaunística de 243 especies, mientras que para el estado de Hidalgo se indica una Área de estudio y métodos riqueza de 290 especies1,7,8,14,23–26,29,31,37–40. Sin La mayoría del trabajo de campo se realizó embargo, la riqueza avifaunística y su distribu- durante la construcción y operación de la Central ción geográfica en estos estados aún no están Hidroeléctrica Ing. Fernando Hiriart completamente conocidas. Balderrama, la cual se ubica entre los límites de Howell & Webb21 presentaron para cada los estados de Querétaro y Hidalgo, abarcando especie una distribución geográfica propuesta parte de los ríos Tula, San Juan y Moctezuma con base en registros publicados, inéditos y en (20o30’N y 20o55’N 99o20’W y 99o40’W). La inter- y extrapolaciones, sin embargo requiere de cortina de la presa se ubica sobre el río ser confirmada. Es por ello que algunas especies Moctezuma, en la confluencia de los ríos Tula y aquí reportadas ya han sido propuestas por estos San Juan, en el sitio conocido como Cañón del autores para Querétaro e Hidalgo como Infiernillo (20o39’N 99o30’W). El embalse que

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Cotinga 22 La avifauna de los estados de Hidalgo y Querétaro, México

cubre un área de 2.300 ha se extiende desde el Las localidades fueron muestreadas desde Cañón del Infiernillo hasta aguas arriba sobre febrero de 1993 hasta mayo de 199617,18 (ver los ríos Tula y San Juan que cubre un recorrido Apéndice 1 y Fig. 1). Los muestreos de la de aproximadamente 26 km (Taxidhó y La avifauna se llevaron a cabo con el esfuerzo de al Florida)6. La zona de estudio se ubica entre las menos dos personas y mediante redes ornitológi- provincias fisiográficas del Eje Neovolcánico y la cas y observaciones directas en transectos Sierra Madre Oriental (Fig. 1, Apéndice 1). lineales de 1 km de longitud y amplitud de franja En la zona del embalse y en la zona de de 50 m y siguiendo el método de Emlen12. influencia se encuentran los siguientes tipos de Diecinueve transectos se realizaron en bosque de vegetación: matorral desértico micrófilo, galería, 15 en el matorral micrófilo, ocho en el matorral desértico crasicaule, matorral desértico matorral crasicaule, ocho en el matorral rosetófilo, bosque de encino y vegetación riparia. rosetófilo y seis en el matorral submontano y En los angostos valles de los ríos se cultivan bosque de encino. La secuencia y nomenclatura algunos árboles frutales y en algunas laderas se de las especies sigue a la AOU2–4. presenta bosque tropical caducifolio, matorral submontano y vegetación secundaria6,9. Resultados El clima de la región es de tipo seco Fueron obtenidos un total de 17 nuevos registros estepario15. Desde el punto de vista fisiográfico, para el estado de Hidalgo y 29 para el estado de la zona es contrastante y se aprecian cadenas Querétaro. En el primer caso los nuevos registros montañosas con amplias depresiones topográfi- aumentan en 5.8% la riqueza avifaunística cas paralelas, así como paredes abruptas que conocida, la cual se eleva a un total de 307 cortan verticalmente a las cadenas montañosas, especies, mientras que en el segundo los nuevos formando profundos cañones. Las zonas más registros aumentan en casi 12% la riqueza prominentes son el cerro de Los Lirios y la Sierra conocida para un total de 272 especies. A contin- del Doctor9. uación se presenta el listado comentado de las

Figura 1. Mapa de los límites entre el estado de Querétaro e Hidalgo, México, indicando las localidades mencionadas en el Apéndice 1.

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Cotinga 22 La avifauna de los estados de Hidalgo y Querétaro, México

especies, así como las localidades de registro y Butorides virescens (*Q) Reportada para el este entre paréntesis el número de catálogo de los de Hidalgo por Mancilla23. Algunos individuos se especimenes colectados. Uno o dos asteriscos observaron en el río San Juan, 2 km al sur del después del nombre científico indican los nuevos antiguo poblado La Vega y Rancho Nuevo (20 de registros y las nuevas localidades y la inicial del febrero, 12–19 de abril, 24–31 de mayo y 29 estado, respectivamente: Q = Querétaro, H = septiembre de 1993), en La Boquilla (27 de marzo Hidalgo. de 1993), Taxhidó (15 de febrero de 1996); sobre el río Tula en La Florida, a 1 km de Tasquillo (22 Tachybaptus dominicus (*QH) Varios individuos de septiembre y 17–20 octubre de 1995) y El observados en febrero, agosto y octubre de 1993 Epazote (14–15 de diciembre de 1995, y 15 y 18 en las presas El Centenario, Paso de Tablas, de enero, 15 de febrero, y 1 y 19 de abril de 1996). Presa Vicente Aguirre, y en los ríos Tula y San Nycticorax nycticorax Reportada para Juan. Hidalgo14,23 y Querétaro34. Alrededor de 22 individuos, entre adultos y inmaduros Podiceps nigricollis (*H) Reportada para la presa observados en las márgenes del río San Juan, El Centenario, Querétaro por Navarro et al.30. cerca del antiguo poblado Rancho Nuevo (9 y 11 Observado en las márgenes del río San Juan, de junio de 1993, y 5 de julio de 1995). También a cerca de La Sabina y Taxhidó (5 de julio de 1995), lo largo de las márgenes del río Tula en la Central Hidroeléctrica (20–21 de (Alfajayucan, El Epazote) y San Juan (Taxhidó), noviembre de 1995), en El Epazote (24 de el 6 de julio, 22 de septiembre de 1995, 15 de noviembre, 15 de diciembre de 1995, 15 de enero, febrero, 28 de marzo, 19 de abril y 18 de mayo 27–30 de marzo, 19 de abril, 18 de mayo 1996), en 1996. Aproximadamente 100 individuos entre a presa El Centenario (20 de enero, 15 y 17 de adultos y inmaduros cerca de La Florida (18 de febrero de 1996), y en la presa Vicente Aguirre enero de 1996) y otro grupo de 80 individuos (21 de agosto de 1993). Alrededor de 18 adultos cerca de La Sabina (19 de enero 1996). Estas en La Florida (18 de enero de 1996) y un grupo observaciones sugieren que la especie es de nueve adultos en el río San Juan (19 de enero residente en un área no mapeada como tal por de 1996). Howell & Webb21 la mapea en Hidalgo Howell y Webb21. y Querétaro entre noviembre y abril (aunque mencionan que anidaba en el Altiplano Mexicano Aix sponsa (*QH) Un macho observado cerca de ‘por lo menos anteriormente’). Los registros de La Florida, en el río Tula, el 20 de octubre de mayo, julio y agosto confirman que se encuentra 1995 y otro en Taxhidó, el 15 de febrero de 1996. todo el año en la región. Anas acuta (*Q) Friedmann et al.14 la reportan Pelecanus occidentalis (*H) Un individuo fue para todos los estados del país, excepto observado volando cerca de la cortina de la Querétaro. Reportada para el este de Hidalgo por Central Hidroeléctrica en octubre de 1995. Rojas- Mancilla23. Más de 20 individuos observados en Soto et al.34 registraron un individuo volando la presa El Centenario el 20 de enero y 17 de sobre la Central Hidroeléctrica el 28 de agosto de febrero de 1996. 1996 y lo consideraron el primer registro para Querétaro. Anas crecca (*Q) Reportada para Hidalgo por Mancilla23. Más de 20 individuos observados en Phalacrocorax brasilianus (*Q) Reportado por la presa El Centenario el 20 de enero y 17 de Mancilla23 para el este de Hidalgo. Varios febrero de 1996. individuos observados el 5 y 6 de julio de 1995 en el río San Juan, cerca de las localidades La Aythya affinis (*Q) Reportada por Friedmann et Sabina y Taxhidó; se observaron además colonias al.14 para Hidalgo. Un macho observado sobre el de más de 100 individuos en el ríos Tula y San río San Juan en la localidad La Boquilla el 27 de Juan el 19 y 20 de enero, 15 de febrero, 27–30 de marzo de 1993. marzo, abril y 18 de mayo de 1996 (bastante común en ambos ríos y en mayo de 1996 se Oxyura jamaicensis (**H) Previamente observaron diez nidos, uno de ellos contenía registrada para el este de Hidalgo23. Trece quatro huevos), también en la presa Paso de individuos se observaron en El Epazote el 23 de Tablas y Presa Vicente Aguirre. Docenas de noviembre de 1995. individuos fueron observados en la Laguna de Tequisquiapan (Q) el 1 de abril de 1997. Se Pandion haliaetus (*H) Reportada para confirma su presencia en Querétaro, ya que Querétaro por Navarro et al.30.Varios individuos Howell & Webb21 la mapean en todo el estado. observados en el río San Juan, cerca de los antiguos poblados de Rancho Nuevo y Vista

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Cotinga 22 La avifauna de los estados de Hidalgo y Querétaro, México

Hermosa (agosto y septiembre de 1993), Presa agosto de 1993. Un grupo de 25 individuos en la Vicente Aguirre (21 de agosto de 1993) Central Presa Paso de Tablas (20 de enero de 1996). Hidroeléctrica (28 de septiembre y 21 de noviembre de 1995); en el río Tula, cerca de la Limnodromus scolopaceus (*Q) Un individuo localidad Maxo (7 de julio de 1995) y en el observado en la Presa Centenario el 17 de Epazote (13–15 de diciembre de 1995, 15 de febrero de 1996. enero y 15 de febrero de 1996). Estas observa- ciones están fuera de las fechas que Howell & Gallinago delicata (*Q) Reportada por Martín Webb21 indican para individuos transitorios. del Campo24 y Friedmann et al.14 para Hidalgo. Individuos observados en vegetación riparia del Aquila chrysaetos (*Q) Reportada por Friedmann río San Juan, cerca de los antiguos poblados de et al.14 para Hidalgo. Un individuo joven fue Vista Hermosa, La Vega y Rancho Nuevo, en observado por el grupo de biólogos de la 12–19 de abril y 27–30 de septiembre de 1993. Comisión Federal de Electricidad el 14 de abril de 1993, carretera a Jalpan (Q). Registro Larus pipixcan (*H) Dos individuos se corroborado en base a una fotografía, tomada por observaron volando en el río Tula entre las los mismos biólogos. Otro individuo observado localidades Paso del Arenal y Maxo el 22 de desde el matorral micrófilo y bosque de noviembre de 1995 y el 19 de abril de 1996. Juniperus el 19 y 29 de julio de 1993. Tyto alba (*Q) Reportada para casi todo el país, Falco peregrinus (*QH) Un individuo observado excepto en diez estados, incluyendo a Querétaro volando cerca de la Central Hidroléctrica el 14 de e Hidalgo14. Un individuo observado en el mayo de 1996. campamento Mesa de León, Querétaro, el 14 de abril de 1993. Dactylortyx thoracicus (**Q) Registros del 21 y 22 de mayo y 10 de junio de 1993 en San Joaquín, Bubo virginianus (*Q) Reportado para Hidalgo y los de Eitnear et al.11 y Rojas et al.34 confirman por Martín del Campo24 y Mancilla23.Un la presencia de esta especie en Querétaro y individuo capturado por el grupo de biólogos del amplían el rango de distribución propuesto por Área de Ecología Ambiental de la Comisión Howell y Webb21. Federal de Electricidad en el campamento Mesa de León (Q), en julio de 1992. Registro Porzana carolina (**H) Un ejemplar observado corroborado en base a seis fotografías. en vegetación de un arroyo en El Epazote el 1 de abril de 1996. Este es el segundo registro preciso Streptoprocne rutila (*Q) Reportada por Howell y para el estado de Hidalgo; el primero fue Webb20 para el estado de Hidalgo. Veinticinco obtenido por Mancilla23. individuos observados a las seis de la tarde en la localidad La Boquilla y el antiguo poblado La Gallinula chloropus (*Q) Reportada para Vega el 26 de marzo de 1993. Hidalgo por Mancilla23. Un individuo observado en las márgenes del río San Juan en localidad de Empidonax trailli (*H) Un macho (INECOL 049) La Sabina-El Riito (19 de enero de 1996). colectado el 15 de mayo de 1996 en la localidad El Epazote, municipio de Tasquillo, Hidalgo. Himantopus mexicanus (*Q) Varios individuos observados en la Presa El Centenario y Paso de Empidonax oberholseri (**H) Reportado por Tablas el 20 de enero y 17 de febrero de 1996. Navarro et al.30 para el estado de Querétaro. Registro (bajo el nombre de E. wrightii) para Recurvirostra americana (*QH) Varios Hidalgo y Querétaro26, pero confusión consider- individuos observados en la Presa Vicente able entre E. oberholseri y E. wrightii antes de Aguirre el 21 de agosto de 1993 y en la Presa Phillips32.Colectamos dos machos (23 de Paso de Tablas el 20 de enero de 1996. noviembre y 12 de diciembre de 1995; INECOL 053, 052) y dos hembras (12 de febrero y 15 de Tringa melanoleuca (*Q) Dos individuos abril de 1996; INECOL 051, 054) en la localidad observados en la Presa Paso de Tablas el 20 de de El Epazote, Hidalgo. enero de 1996. Empidonax occidentalis (*Q) Reportada para Calidris mauri (*QH) Un individuo observado en Hidalgo por Miller et al.26. Mapeado por Howell y la Presa Paso de Tablas (Q), y dos individuos en Webb21 como residente para la zona de estudio. la Presa Vicente Guerrero, Hidalgo, el 21 de Individuos observados en la localidad de San Joaquín el 21 y 22 de mayo de 1993. Un macho

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(INECOL 050) colectado el 16 de abril de 1996 en de 1995 y 16 de enero de 1996; INECOL 058, la localidad de El Epazote, municipio de 059). Macho y hembra construyendo un nido en Tasquillo. las ramas externas de un Taxodium mucronatum, en la vegetación riparia de La Vega Myiarchus tuberculifer (**H) Reportada para (17 de abril de 1993). Hidalgo por Miller et al.26. No mapeada en gran parte del estado de Querétaro y región suroeste Vireo gilvus (**H) Reportada para el norte de de Hidalgo por Howell y Webb21. Esta especie ya Hidalgo por Miller et al.26 y para Querétaro por ha sido reportada para Querétaro por Navarro30 Rojas et al.34. Dos machos (INECOL 087, 089) y y Arellano5,y para la región noreste de Hidalgo una hembra (INECOL 088) colectados en la por Bjelland y Ray7. Individuos observados y población de Cuauhtémoc (17 de octubre de identificados por sus vocalizaciones en 1995) y el Epazote (22 de noviembre de 1995 y 16 vegetación riparia y xerófila de El Charcón, de abril de 96), municipio de Tasquillo, Hidalgo, Hidalgo (19 de febrero de 1993, diciembre de respectivamente. 1995, marzo a mayo de 1996), en la Cascada-La Florida, Hidalgo (15 de enero de 1996) y río San Stelgidopteryx serripennis (*H) Reportada para Juan, alimentándose de frutos de Bursera sp. (19 Querétaro por Navarro et al.28 y Navarro et al.30. de enero de 1996) y en el Epazote, Hidalgo (17 de Mapeado como migratorio de paso para enero de 1996). Querétaro e Hidalgo por Howell y Webb21. Sin embargo, Gómez de Silva16 la registra como Myiarchus nuttingi (*H) Mapeado por Howell y residente en la región de Peña Blanca, Webb21 como una población disyunta desde el sur Querétaro. Tenemos registros de individuos para de San Luis Potosí al norte de Hidalgo. Una el Charcón, Hidalgo (19 de febrero de 1993 y 9 de hembra colectada (INECOL 055) el 16 de mayo junio de 1993), La Vega, límite entre Querétaro e de 1996 en la localidad El Epazote. Hidalgo (19 de abril, y 9 y 11 de junio de 1993) y en San Joaquín, Querétaro (10 de junio de 1993). Myiarchus tyrannulus (*Q) Reportada para Estas observaciones apoyan el estatus de especie Hidalgo por Miller et al.26 y Mancilla23.No residente para la región sureste de Querétaro y mapeada para Querétaro por Howell y Webb21. suroeste de Hidalgo. Varios individuos fueron observados en vegetación riparia cerca del antiguo poblado La Myadestes occidentalis (**Q) Reportada para el Vega, uno de ellos alimentando a un volantón (19 norte de Hidalgo7,26 y Querétaro19. Un individuo de abril, 20 de mayo, y 9 y 11 de junio de 1993), observado el 10 de junio de 1993 en bosque de cerca del antiguo poblado Rancho Nuevo y Vista encino en San Joaquín, camino hacia Casa de Hermosa (20 y 28 de septiembre de 1995), y en El Máquinas. Otro escuchado en río Tolimán, Epazote (22 de noviembre de 1995; ejemplares Querétaro (23 de agosto de 1993). capturados en 9 y 11 de junio de 1993, y 16 y 18 de abril de 1996). Un macho colectado (INECOL Turdus grayi (**QH) No mapeada para el sur de 056) el 16 de abril de 1996, en el Epazote. Querétaro y suroeste de Hidalgo por Howell y Webb21. Reportado por Navarro et al.28,30, Tyrannus verticalis (*Q) Individuos observados e Arellano5 y Gómez de Silva16 para Querétaro, y identificados visualmente alimentándose de por Miller et al.26, Bjelland & Ray7, Florez & frutos de Bursera sp., cerca de la localidad de La Gerez13, Mancilla23 y Navarro et al.29 para Sabina, río San Juan (19 de enero de 1996) y en Hidalgo. Individuos observados y/o colectados Taxhidó (15–16 de febrero de 1996). Fechas de (INECOL 068–075) en el poblado Cuauhtémoc migración complementarias a las mencionadas (17–18 de octubre de 1995, 23–24 de noviembre por Howell y Webb21. Probablemente se trate de de 1995) y en El Epazote (11 de diciembre de una población invernante y no migratorias de 1995, 16 de enero de 1996, 12–13 de febrero de paso. 1996, 29 y 31 de marzo de 1996, 16–17 de abril de 1996, 15 y 17 de mayo de 1996), municipio de Pachyramphus aglaiae (**QH) No mapeada en Tasquillo, Hidalgo. gran parte del estado de Querétaro y región suroeste de Hidalgo por Howell y Webb21. Esta Dumetella carolinensis (**H) Reportada por especie ha sido reportada para Querétaro por Arellano5 y Rojas-Soto et al.34 para el norte de Navarro30 y para la región noreste de Hidalgo por Querétaro, y por Mancilla23 y Navarro et al.29 Bjelland y Ray7.Individuos observados y para la región noreste de Hidalgo. Un macho colectados en El Epazote, municipio de Tasquillo, colectado (INECOL 081) el 16 de abril de 1996 en Hidalgo (19 de octubre y 23 de noviembre de la localidad de El Epazote, Tasquillo, Hidalgo, 1995). Dos hembras colectadas (12 de diciembre probablemente un visitante de invierno.

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Toxostoma crissale (*Q) Registros para de octubre de 1993 en matorral crasicaule cerca Portezuelo y 24 km noroeste de Actopan, del antiguo poblado Rancho Nuevo, otros Hidalgo26. Un individuo observado el 29 de marzo individuos se observaron el 19 de mayo cerca del en el antiguo poblado La Vega, y el 29 de antiguo poblado de la Vega, y el 23 de septiembre septiembre de 1993 en matorral rosetófilo cerca de 1995 en La Florida. Una hembra capturada el del campamento Mesa de León (Q). 20 de septiembre de 1995 en el antiguo pueblo de Vista Hermosa y Rancho Nuevo. Melanotis caerulescens (**H) Reportada para el noreste de Hidalgo7,13,23,y centro-oeste, noreste y Dendroica magnolia (*Q) Un individuo noroeste de Querétaro28,30 y Tasquillo26. observado el 26 de marzo de 1993 en las Aparentemente no existen registros para la márgenes del río San Juan cerca del antiguo suroeste de Hidalgo. Cinco individuos (tres poblado La Vega, Querétaro. machos y dos hembras) colectados, en El Epazote: 24 de noviembre de 1995 (INECOL Setophaga ruticilla (*QH) Una hembra 083), 11 de diciembre de 1995 (INECOL 084), 15 observada el 29 de septiembre de 1993 en la de enero de 1996 (INECOL 085), 31 de marzo de vegetación riparia del río San Juan cerca del 1996 (INECOL 086) y 18 de abril de 1996 antiguo poblado Rancho Nuevo. (INECOL 082). Otros individuos observados en el Charcón, Hidalgo (19 de febrero de 1993) y en La Seiurus motacilla (**QH) No mapeado para gran Vega (20 de febrero y 17 de abril de 1993). parte del estado de Hidalgo ni en Querétaro por Individuos observados en bosques de encino de Howell y Webb21. Reportado para el noreste de San Joaquín, Querétaro (9–10 de junio de 1993). Hidalgo7,23,29 y el suroeste y norte de Querétaro30. Cuatro individuos observados en Peña Blanca, Una hembra colectada (INECOL 108) el 14 de Querétaro (31 de julio de 1998). diciembre de 1995 en el poblado El Epazote. Otro individuo atrapado y liberado en Vista Hermosa Sturnus vulgaris (*QH) Cuatro individuos (24 de agosto de 1993). Otros individuos observados en El Epazote (14 de diciembre de observados en el Charcón, Hidalgo (19 de febrero 1995, 16–17 de enero, 14 de febrero, 27 de marzo de 1993) y La Vega (20 de febrero de 1993). y 17–18 de abril de 1996), donde un par entraba y salía de un hoyo en un árbol, y quizás estaba Geothlypis nelsoni (*Q) Reportada para Real del anidando. Seis individuos observados en Monte, Hidalgo26. Un individuo observado y Ixmiquilpan, Hidalgo (19 de abril de 1988) y otro escuchado el 10 de junio de 1993 en bosque de observado cerca de Tequisquiapan, Querétaro (1 encino cerca de San Joaquín, camino a casa de de abril de 1997). Estos son nuevos registros máquinas. para Hidalgo y Querétaro, y son una de las pocas localidades donde la especie ha sido reportada en Piranga ludoviciana (**QH) Registrada en la parte central de México. Metztitlán, Hidalgo26. Un individuo observado en la vegetación riparia de La Vega el 19 de abril de Vermivora pinus (*Q) Un individuo observado el 1993, otro en matorral micrófilo cerca de la 21 de mayo de 1993 en bosque de pino–encino localidad El Presón el 25 de julio de 1993; otro en cerca de la localidad de San Joaquín, Querétaro. la localidad Mesa de León el 23 de agosto de 1993; y otro macho en matorral submontano Vermivora peregrina (*H) Individuos observados cerca del antiguo poblado Rancho Nuevo el 28 de el 17 de octubre de 1995 en Cuauhtémoc, septiembre de 1993. Tasquillo, y el 12–13 de diciembre de 1995, y un macho fue capturado el 27 de marzo y otros Aimophila ruficeps (**QH) Reportada para fueron observados el 17–19 de abril de 1996 en Querétaro (cerca de San Juan del Río y Tolimán) El Epazote, Hidalgo. y Hidalgo (Portezuelo y Jacala)26. Tres individuos se observaron el 30 de marzo, otros se observaron Vermivora virginiae (*H) Dos machos colectados el 19–21 de mayo y el 25 y 28–30 de septiembre (INECOL 100–101) el 16–17 de abril, respectiva- de 1993 en matorral rosetófilo, micrófilo y mente, y otro macho atrapado y liberado el 17 de submontano en las localidades Nuevo Poblado y abril de 1996 en El Epazote, Hidalgo. campamento Mesa de León, así como en el antiguo poblado Rancho Nuevo. Otros ejemplares Dendroica petechia (*H) Reportada para se observaron en la localidad de El Epazote. Querétaro por Rojas et al.34. El 22 de mayo de 1993 se observó esta especie en bosque de Spizella pallida (**Q) Reportada para San Juan pino–encino en la localidad de San Joaquín, del Río, Querétaro26. Un total de 65 observados Querétaro; una hembra fue observada el primero cerca del campamento Mesa de León entre el

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29–31 de marzo y otros se observaron en & C. Fanny Rebón Gallardo de la Facultad de matorral micrófilo el 25 de julio de 1993 en la Ciencias de la UNAM por permitirnos consultar la misma localidad. colección de aves del Museo de Zoología. Agradecemos las sugerencias y comentarios Spizella atrogularis (**QH) Reportada para realizados por Octavio Rojas del Museo de Zoología Cadereyta, Querétaro, y Portezuelo, Hidalgo26. de la Facultad de Ciencias de la UNAM y por un revisor anónimo que mejoraron la versión final del Un individuo observado en ladera del Cerro La manuscrito. Tembladera, 10.5 km noreste de Peña Blanca, Querétaro (8 de junio de 1993), y en el km 16 Referencias carretera a San Joaquín (10 de junio de 1993). 1. Amadon, D. & Phillips, A. R. (1947) Notes on Otros individuos observados y capturados el 29 Mexican birds. Auk 64: 576–581. de marzo de 1996 en El Epazote. 2. AOU (1998) Check-list of North American birds. Seventh edn. Lawrence, KA: American Passerina ciris (*Q) (**H) Reportada para San Ornithologists’ Union. Agustín, Hidalgo por Miller et al.26. Dos 3. AOU (2000) Forty-second supplement to the ejemplares observados (macho y hembra) el AOU Check-List of North American birds. Auk 18–19 de abril y 26 de marzo de 1993 en la 117: 847–858. vegetación riparia de La Vega. Un macho joven 4. AOU (2002) Forty-third supplement to the AOU colectado (INECOL 138) el 16 de abril de 1996 en Check-List of North American birds. Auk 119: El Epazote. 897–906. 5. Arellano, A. (1997) Distribución altitudinal de la Agelaius phoeniceus (**H) Reportada para avifauna en la región Santa Inés–Tangojó, Municipio de Landa de Matamoros, Qro. Metztitlán, Hidalgo por Miller et al.26. Un macho Unpubl. dissertation. Querétaro: Universidad colectado (INECOL 142) el 18 de abril de 1996 en Autónoma de Querétaro. el Epazote, otros observados el 17–18 de abril y 6. Benítez, G., Sosa, V. & Equihua, M. (1996) el 14 de mayo de 1996 en la misma localidad. Monitoreo de la regeneración natural de la vegetación riparia y propuesta de restauración Euphagus cyanocephalus (**QH) Reportada posterior a la construcción del P. H. Zimapán. para Querétaro por Miller et al.26 y Navarro et Xalapa, Veracruz: Instituto de Ecología, A. C. al.30. Un individuo observado el 19 de abril y 19 Comisión Federal de Electricidad. de mayo de 1993 en vegetación riparia del río 7. Bjelland, D. A. & Ray, C. J. (1977) Birds collected San Juan en el antiguo poblado de La Vega, y el in the state of Hidalgo, Mexico. Occ. Pap., Mus. 22 de mayo en bosque de pino–encino en la Texas Tech. Univ. 46: 1–32. localidad de San Joaquín, Querétaro. 8. Brodkorb, P. (1943) The type localities of some Mexican birds of the genera Aphelocoma, Cyanocitta and Peucedramus. Auk 61: Icterus cucullatus (**H). Reportada previamente 400–404. para Portezuelo y el este de Hidalgo23,26 y para 5,30 9. CFE (1991) Proyecto Hidroeléctrico Zimapán. Querétaro . Mapeado como migratorio de paso In: Manifestación de Impacto Ambiental. 21 16 por Howell y Webb . Gómez de Silva la registra Modalidad Intermedia. México, DF: como una especie aparentemente residente en Subdirección de Construcción, Gerencia de Peña Blanca, Querétaro. Colectamos dos machos, Proyectos Hidroeléctricos. uno de ellos joven, el 17 de octubre de 1995 10. Dixon, J. R., Ketchersid, C. A. & Lieb, C. S. (1972) (INECOL 146) y el 18 de abril de 1996 (INECOL The herpetofauna of Querétaro, Mexico, with 145) en la localidad de El Epazote y el Poblado remarks on taxonomic problems. Southwest. Cuauhtémoc, municipio de Tasquillo, Hidalgo, Nat.6:225–237. respectivamente. 11. Eitniear, J. C., Aragón Tapia, A., González, V., Pedraza, R. & Baccus, J. T. (2000) New Agradecimientos for the Mexican state of Agradecemos a la Comisión Federal de Electricidad Querétaro. Cotinga 13: 10–13. y al Departamento de Ecosistemas Templados del 12. Emlen, J. T. (1971) Population densities of birds Instituto de Ecología, A.C., por las facilidades y derived from transect counts. Auk 88: 323–342. apoyo financiero para la realización de este trabajo. 13. Flores, V. O. & Gerez, P. (1994) Biodiversidad y A la Gerencia de Protección Ambiental de la CFE conservación en México: vertebrados, por la revisión y comentarios al manuscrito final. A vegetación y uso del suelo. México, DF: Amy McAndrews por su ayuda en la identificación CONABIO/UNAM. de especimenes, principalmente del género 14. Friedmann, H., Griscom, L. & Moore, R. T. (1950) Empidonax.A Juan Chávez Alarcón del Laboratorio Distributional check-list of the birds of Mexico, de Visualización de Datos del Instituto de Ecología, 1. Cooper Ornithological Society (Pacific Coast A.C., por su ayuda en la elaboración del mapa de Avifauna 29). localidades. Al Dr Adolfo Navarro Sigüenza y a la M.

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15. García, E. (1973) Modificación al sistema de Las aves del estado de Querétaro, México. clasificación climática de Köppen. México, DF: México, DF: Instituto de Biología, UNAM. Instituto de Geografía, UNAM. 31. Pichardo, D. J. (1987) Estudio ornitológico en el 16. Gómez de Silva, H. (2002) New distributional Municipio de Alfajayucan, Hidalgo. Tesis de and temporal records of Mexican birds. Licenciatura. México, DF: Facultad de Cotinga 18: 89–92. Ciencias, UNAM. 17. González-García, F. & Neri-Fajardo, M. (1994) 32. Phillips, A. R. (1943) Some differences between Estudio de la avifauna del área de influencia the Wright’s and Gray Flycatchers. Auk 61: del Proyecto Hidroeléctrico Zimapán. México, 293–294. DF: Instituto de Ecología A.C./Comisión 33. Rodríguez-Yañez, C. A., Villalón, R. M. & Federal de Electricidad. Navarro S., A. G. (1994) Bibliografía de las 18. González-García, F., Puebla-Olivares, F. & aves de México (1825–1992). Publ. Esp. Mus. Barrios, S. (1996) Monitoreo de la avifauna Zool.8:1–146. posterior a la construcción del Proyecto 34. Rojas-Soto, O. R., Sahún-Sánchez, F. J. & Hidroeléctrico Zimapán. México, DF: Instituto Navarro S., A. G. (2001) Additional de Ecología A.C./Comisión Federal de information on the avifauna of Querétaro, Electricidad. Mexico. Cotinga 15: 48–52. 19. Gutiérrez P., A. (2002) Aves en sitios 35. Rojas-Soto, O. R., Sánchez-González, L. A. & conservados y perturbados de tres hábitats en López de Aquino, S. (2002) New information of la Reserva de la Biosfera Sierra Gorda, the birds of northern Hidalgo, México. Querétaro, México. Tesis de Licenciatura. Southwest. Nat. 47: 471–475. México, DF: Facultad de Ciencias, UNAM. 36. Scheinvar, L., Reyna, T., Arias, S., Olalde, G. & 20. Howell, S. N. G. & Webb, S. (1992) A little-known Granados, R. (1990) Flora cactológica del cloud forest in Hidalgo, Mexico. Euphonia 1: estado de Querétaro y acciones conserva- 1–6. cionistas. In: Camarillo, J. L. & Rivera, F. (eds.) 21. Howell, S. N. G. & Webb, S. (1995) A guide to the Áreas naturales protegidas en México y birds of Mexico and northern Central America. especies en extinción. Iztacala: UNAM. Oxford: Oxford University Press. 37. Salazar, C. (2001) Avifauna de la reserva de la 22. León E. R., Morales, J. C., Schmidly D. J. & Biosfera Sierra Gorda, Querétaro, México. Navarro, D. (1990) Noteworthy records of Tesis Profesional. Iztacala: UNAM. mammals from the state of Querétaro, Mexico. 38. Sutton, G. M. & Burleigh, T. D. (1941) Birds Southwest. Nat. 35: 231–235. records in the state of Hidalgo, México by the 23. Mancilla, M. M. (1978) Estudio preliminar de la Sample expedition of 1939. Ann. Carnegie avifauna en el trayecto Zacualtipán-Zoquipan, Mus. 28: 169–186. San Jose Meztitlán, en el este de Hidalgo, 39. Wetmore, A. (1948) The Golden-throated México. Tesis de Licenciatura. México, DF: Woodpeckers of Texas and northern Mexico. Facultad de Ciencias, UNAM. Wilson Bull. 60: 185–186. 24. Martín del Campo, R. (1936) Contribuciones al 40. Williams, S. O. (1977) Colonial waterbirds on conocimiento de la Fauna de Actopan, Hgo. An. the Mexican Plateau. Proc. 1977. Conf. Col. Inst. Biol.7:271–286. Waterbirds Group: 44–47. 25. Mengel, R. M & Warner, D. W. (1948) Golden 41. Zamudio, R. S., Rzedowski, J., Carranza G., E. & Eagle in Hidalgo, Mexico. Wilson Bull. 60: 122. Calderón de Rzedowski, G. (1992) La 26. Miller, A. H., Friedmann, H., Griscom, L. & vegetación en el estado de Querétaro. Moore, R. T. (1957) Distributional check-list of Pátzcuaro, Michoacán: CONCyTEQ- the birds of Mexico,2.Cooper Ornithological Querétaro/Instituto de Ecología, A.C. Society (Pacific Coast Avifauna 33). 27. Mittermeier, R. A. (1988) Primate diversity and Fernando González-García the tropical forest: case studies from Brazil Instituto de Ecología, A.C., Departamento de and Madagascar and the importance of the Ecología y Comportamiento Animal, Apartado megadiversity countries. In: Wilson, E. O. & Postal 63, Xalapa, Veracruz, México 91000. E-mail: Peter, F. M. (eds.) Biodiversity.Washington [email protected]. DC: National Academy Press. 28. Navarro S., A. G., León-Paniagua, L. & Fernando Puebla Olivares Hernández, B. E. B. (1991) Notas sobre las Museo de Zoología, Facultad de Ciencias, aves del estado de Querétaro, México. Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Southwest. Nat. 36: 360–364. Apartado Postal 70-399, México, D.F. 04510. 29. Navarro S., A. G., Benítez, H. & Hernández, B. E. B. (1992) Avifauna de los bosques de Sergio Barrios Monterde montaña del noreste del estado de Hidalgo. Instituto de Ecología, A.C., Departamento de México, DF: Facultad de Ciencias, UNAM. Ecología y Comportamiento Animal, Apartado 30. Navarro S., A. G., Hernández, B. E. B. & Benítez, Postal 63, Xalapa, Veracruz, México 91000. H. D. (1993) Listados faunísticos de México: IV.

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Mara Neri Fajardo 11. Presa Centenario, Querétaro (1.810 m: vegetación Cima Dorada 190, Fraccionamiento Cima, Durango, acuática, 20o30’N 99o53’W). Durango, México 34204. 12. Presa Paso de Tablas, Querétaro (1.780 m: vegetación acuática y matorral crasicaule en la periferia, 20o32’N Héctor Gómez de Silva Garza 99o51’W). Xola 314-E, México, D.F. 03100. 13. La Sabina, rio San Juan, Querétaro (1.485 m: matorral xerófilo crasicaule y submontano, 20o48’N 99o29’W). Apéndice 1. Altitud, tipo de vegetación y coordenadas 14. Casa de Máquinas, Querétaro/Hidalgo (matorral o o geográficas de las localidades de observación y muestreo submontano, 20 49’N 99 27’W). mencionados en el texto.* 15. Vista Hermosa*, Querétaro/Hidalgo (1.425 m: matorral xerófilo crasicaule, matorral submontano, 20o37’N o 1. Campamento Mesa de León, Querétaro (1.935 m: 99 31’W). 16. La Vega*, Querétaro/Hidalgo (1.425 m: vegetación riparia, matorral micrófilo, matorral xerófilo crasicaule, matorral o o rosetófilo, 20o41’N 99o33’W). matorral xerófilo crasicaule, 20 38’N 99 32’W). 17. Rancho Nuevo*, Querétaro/Hidalgo (1.430 m: matorral 2. El Charcón (río San Juan), Querétaro (1.685 m: o o vegetación riparia, 20o33’N 99o45’W). xerófilo crasicaule, vegetación riparia, 20 39’N 99 31’W). 18. La Boquilla, Querétaro/Hidalgo (1.400 m: matorral 3. Cerro Xhifi, Querétaro (2.000 m: matorral xerófilo o o crasicaule, 20o41’N 99o39’W). xerófilo, 20 39’N 99 30’W). o 19. La Florida, Hidalgo (1.495 m: vegetación riparia. 20o35’N 4. Taxhidó, Querétaro (vegetación riparia, 20 34’N o 99o38’W). 99 22’W). 20. El Epazote, Hidalgo (1.700 m: vegetación riparia, matorral 5. El Riito, Querétaro (1.400 m: vegetación riparia, matorral o o xerófilo crasicaule, cultivos, 20o34’N 99o35’W). xerófilo y cultivos de maíz, 20 35’N 99 27’W). o 21. Presa Vicente Aguirre, Hidalgo (1.800 m: cuerpo de agua, 6. Nuevo Poblado, Querétaro (1.910 m: mesquites, 20 41’N o o 99o36’W). 20 27’N 99 23’W ). 22. Tasquillo, Hidalgo (1630 m: vegetación riparia, 20o33’N 7. San Joaquín, Querétaro (2.435 m: bosque de encino, o 20o55’N 99o34’W). 99 16’W). 23. Río Tula, Hidalgo (1.495 m: vegetación riparia, 20o30’N 8. Cerro Tembladeras, 10.5 km al noreste de Peña Blanca, o Querétaro (1.865 m: matorral submontano, 21o01’N 99 25’W). o 24. Ventana, Hidalgo (1.450 m: matorral micrófilo, 20o41’N 99 45’W). o 9. Km 16 carretera a San Joaquín, Querétaro (2.485 m: 99 29’W). bosque de Juniperus). 10. Arroyo Tolimán, Querétaro (1.035 m: vegetación riparia, *Algunas localidades de muestreo ubicadas en las riveras 20o48’N 99o27’W). de los río Tula y San Juan desaparecieron debido al llenado del embalse

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Aspectos de la biología del Pitirre Real Tyrannus cubensis, en Najasa, Camagüey, Cuba Pedro Regalado Cotinga 22 (2004): 66–72

Giant Kingbird Tyrannus cubensis is now endemic to Cuba, and is globally threatened. Very little is known of the species’ ecological requirements. In Najasa, Camagüey province, Cuba, it inhabits ecotones between forested and open areas, such as grasslands and swamps, as well as riparian forest. In montane areas it inhabits open forest with tall trees. Giant Kingbird is territorial year-round and occupies large territories: mean size is 27.5 ha at study sites. Pair bonds are life-long, and pairs duet in territorial defence and mate recognition. Food is principally flying insects of the Hymenoptera group, mostly wasps, but a substantial quantity of fruit is also taken, especially in the dry season, as well as Anolis lizards. Monthly variation in the abundance of flying insects in the diet was related to season, time of day and temperature, whilst annual differences appear to reflect precipitation in the previous year. A total of 27 nests was located, all of them high in large Ceiba pentandra trees, and only one was located in a dead, leafless tree, only 6 m high and surrounded by buildings, which may have provided a readily available supply of insect food. Giant Kingbirds possess the classic traits known to be associated with K-selection, including low reproductive effort, prolonged parental care and presumably (given the low productivity) high juvenile survival.

El Pitirre Real Tyrannus cubensis es una especie Métodos endémica de Cuba, considerada amenazada de El trabajo de campo intensivo se realizó entre extinción en la categoría En Peligro3. Muy poco enero de 1998 y diciembre de 1999. Se determinó se conoce sobre la ecología de la especie. Incluso la distribución de hábitats presentes (bosque de no se han precisado bien las causas de su galería, sabanas, etc.) examinando fotos aéreas declinación, aunque se considera que se debe a la recientes y verificándolas en el terreno. deforestación y avance de la agricultura3,8.El Posteriormente se realizaron observaciones objetivo fundamental de este estudio fue conocer incidentales durante los años 2000 y 2001. aspectos básicos de la biología de T. cubensis, además de realizar conteos de individuos para determinar el número de parejas que nidifican en la región seleccionada (Sierra de Najasa, Camagüey), donde se considera que vive la población más estable en toda Cuba (obs. pers.).

Área de estudio El estudio fue llevado a cabo en la región de Najasa (centrado en 21o02’N 77o45’W) de la provincia de Camagüey, que abarca 85.980 ha, incluyendo el Área Protegida ‘La Belén’ (de 5.000 ha), donde se realizaron también conteos y algunas observaciones biológicas. El monitoreo principal, de tres parejas nidificantes, se desarrolló en Arroyo Hondo, un área de 237,5 ha aledaña a ‘La Belén’. El municipio Najasa mantiene áreas de vegetación boscosa, palmares, arboledas y bosques de galería en buen estado. El sistema vial pobre y la baja densidad poblacional Figura 1. Áreas de estudio y territorio de tres parejas de humana han favorecido la permanencia de Tyrannus cubensis en Najasa, Camagüey, Cuba. hábitats en estado natural o semi-natural, especialmente los bosques de galería, que cubren Todas las observaciones de alimentación, casi todos los arroyos y ríos de la zona. La nidificación y comportamiento fueron estación de lluvias comprende de mayo a octubre. registradas en una grabadora, y posteriormente

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volcadas a una base de datos para cada pareja. zonas de transición entre las áreas boscosas y Estos datos se refieren mayormente a las tres áreas abiertas como sabanas, ciénagas y parejas que anidaron dentro del área de pastizales antrópicos, en regiones de baja altitud; monitoreo. También se consideraron las observa- en zonas de montaña, habita en bosques abiertos ciones incidentales de adultos y juveniles o semiabiertos de árboles altos y se le encuentra consumiendo alimentos fuera del área de especialmente en las áreas cafetaleras de monitoreo intensivo. montaña, donde existen estas características. Para evaluar la abundancia de insectos En Najasa utilizan ocasionalmente durante la

mensual y entre4 los dos años, se utilizó una estación seca áreas de palmares y arboledas técnica visual modificada, donde, a través de urbanas para alimentarse. Nunca observé al binoculares, se abarcaron transectas lineales de Pitirre Real lejos de las áreas sin árboles, 25 m2 de terreno, y se contaron todos los insectos tampoco en matorrales (‘manigua’), ni en bosques que pasaban volando dentro de este campo secundarios de dosel bajo, o sabanas secas10. visual, y su permanencia dentro del mismo (en segundos). El tiempo que un insecto permanece Vocalizaciones en el campo visual refleja su disponibilidad para La primera referencia a las vocalizaciones del un ave insectívora de percha como el Pitirre Pitirre Real fue de Gundlach11 quién señaló que Real. Esta técnica, aunque no muy exacta, su voz estaba ‘compuesta de cuatro sonidos’ y que permitió estimar la densidad de insectos volando además ‘tenía grito diferente, cuando está en en alturas de 3–15 m, rango en el cual T. cubensis riña con otros individuos’ (sic). Posteriormente suele capturar la mayoría de sus presas. cierta confusión reinó respecto a su vocalización, Para definir el territorio de cada pareja se siendo descripta erróneamente en varias utilizó la técnica de playback,y las respuestas de ocasiones5,7,10,15 ,y una cinta con voces de aves los individuos eran marcadas en planos cubanas17 presenta un ejemplo de T. caudifascia- esquemáticos del terreno, realizados con ayuda de tus como la voz de T. cubensis. Se describen a las fotos aéreas (escala 1:10.000). Los censos de continuación las distintas voces del Pitirre Real las parejas nidificantes en Najasa se realizaron registradas durante este estudio. por puntos, a lo largo de carreteras y caminos, a) Canto territorial aflautado: de tres a cuatro utilizando un vehículo. Además se realizaron notas (ver Gundlach13), ejecutado sólo por el conteos pedestres en áreas alejadas de la red vial. macho, con mayor frecuencia durante los Cada canto territorial de los machos era marcado períodos de cortejo y nidificación. Durante el en un plano del lugar y se verificaba el hallazgo resto del año se le sigue escuchando, pero de los nidos en cada lugar censado. De igual repetido sólo de una a tres veces, y sobre todo manera, se utilizó al Sinsonte Mimus polyglottos por las tardes. Este canto es emitido cuando como un buen indicador de la presencia de los machos están posados, y se asocia sólo con pitirres reales en cada lugar, ya que es un la advertencia territorial. constante imitador de sus vocalizaciones. b) Turring o trinado: vocalización muy Los nidos se situaban por lo general muy alto frecuente que realiza la pareja, a dúo, pero y no se pudieron obtener datos de los mismos. Así, como un ‘canto antifonal’25, donde general- el interior de los nidos sólo pudo ser observado mente el macho comienza el turring y la con la ayuda de varas largas y espejos, para hembra se le acopla en la porción final, determinar el número de huevos y pichones por terminando al unísono. La función primaria nido, y permanencia o mortalidad de los mismos. de esta vocalización a dúo parece ser la defensa del territorio en forma conjunta. Resultados Además, sirve para identificación entre los En la Tabla 1 se resumen los principales aspectos miembros de la pareja. Estos duetos son del ciclo de vida de Tyrannus cubensis en Najasa, característicos de especies donde los sexos Camagüey, Cuba y se compara con el ciclo de vida presentan una apariencia similar, que Tyrannus tyrannus de norteamérica, un típico permanecen apareados de por vida, y tiránido representante del género. mantienen sus territorios permanentes, como el Pitirre Real. El turring está asociado a un Hábitat temblor de las alas. La hembra además suele Para el Pitirre Real se ha señalado5,7,10,11,15 como expandir su cola de manera característica al su hábitat principal los bosques semideciduos y emitirlo. Esto no lo hace casi nunca el macho. los pinares, cerca del agua en río, arroyos y El turring está compuesto por varias notas de ciénagas. Otros autores10 incluyen como hábitat tono alto que suenan turr, que son repetidas principal las sabanas secas. Considero que rápidamente en series de 5–10 notas. Largas Tyrannus cubensis debe definirse mejor con una pausas pueden sucederse entre cada especie que habita principalmente ecotonos o sea repetición, y es emitido cuando los miembros

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de la pareja están posados uno cerca del otro. Tabla 1. Sumario del ciclo de vida de Tyrannus cubensis y A veces emiten la vocalización en vuelo, comparación con Tyrannus tyrannus de Norteamérica. cuando persiguen a un intruso, ocasiones en Indicadores T. tyrannus16 (Presente estudio) las que suelen participar algún miembro del T. cubensis grupo familiar. Meses de reproducción mayo–julio marzo–junio c) Canto uicarr: algo aflautado, se incorpora a Duración de las parejas época de cria permanente menudo al inicio del turring, aunque es Situación del nido árboles, arbustos ceibas grandes Altura del nido baja a media muy alto también emitido de manera aislada. Es una Término del nido, vocalización típica del macho y que parece puesta de huevos 1–20 (6) 8–10 (7) implicar alarma ya que usualmente se la Nido (interior) forrado no forrado escucha ante la presencia de aves depredado- Nidada completa 2–5 (3) 2–3 (3) ras o de gran tamaño. Es una vocalización Incubación 12–16 (14) 17–18 (17) Empollamiento corta de dos notas, repetidas cinco o seis (diferencia en días) asincrónico (2–3) asincrónico (2–3) veces, con pausas de 2–4 segundos. Si el Estancia en el nido 15–17 17–19 individuo, sólo o con su pareja, decide atacar Volantones por nido 2–3 1–5 al intruso, entonces emite el turring. Nidadas producidas al año solo una solo una d) Chasquido de pico: estos sonidos se producen Semanas de cuidados parental 4–5 5–6 Hábitat campo abierto, junto al turring. Son frecuentes en los casos jardines ecotono, bosques de rechazo de individuos de la misma especie. Territorialismo estacional permanente Este sonido es perfectamente audible a Tamaño promedio del territorio 8,4 há 27,5 há distancia (>30 m) y refleja una fuerte Alimento animal 90% 60% tendencia de ataque, y una ritualizada Alimento vegetal 10% 40% Canto territorial chirrido largo aflautado 3–4 notas intención de picar. e) Notas tric-tric: son producidas por los pichones volantones de la pareja cuando sus chasquidos de pico para echar al intruso, y una padres están cerca, para pedirles comida, sola vez se presenció una pelea con contacto generalmente acompañados por temblores de entre los individuos, así como con una pareja de alas. Paloma Aliblanca Zenaida asiatica. El territorio de la pareja 3 era el más grande, con 34,4 ha, y Territorialidad estaba conformado por un bosque de galería de El Pitirre Real defiende un territorio todo el año, más de 800 m de largo y una porción boscosa al aunque el tamaño del mismo puede variar de un sur, de 12,5 ha (Fig. 1). El territorio de la pareja año para otro, en respuesta quizás a las 1 abarcaba unas 28,1 ha, cubriendo una porción variaciones ambientales, principalmente por la de bosque en galería (unos 500 m), arboledas con sequía. Por ejemplo, una pareja desapareció por palmas y jardines con árboles de las casas completo de la porción sur de su territorio (unas pertenecientes al Área Protegida ‘La Belén’. El 10 ha) durante la fuerte sequía de 1999, territorio de la pareja 2 cubría apenas 18,8 ha y manteniéndose solamente en las cercanías de un resultó el más vulnerable a la sequía, ya que el arroyo que mantenía agua. arroyo de su bosque en galería no era La defensa del territorio es compartida por la permanente y sólo tenía agua en la estación pareja, aunque el macho es más agresivo. Por lo lluviosa. El área de cada territorio se encuentra general les basta con emitir el turring o entre las mayores registradas para Passeriformes americanos19.

Alimentación Los pitirres adultos usaban dos métodos muy diferentes para forrajear: en días fríos o de mucho viento, así como temprano en la mañana, lo hacían a baja altura o en el interior del bosque. Durante días cálidos y sin viento buscaban sus presas alto en el dosel. Revolotean entre el follaje, tomando lagartijas Anolis o insectos grandes del follaje, o capturando insectos al vuelo. Gundlach11,12 señaló que el Pitirre Real se alimenta de insectos, polluelos de pájaros y lagartijas, pero en este estudio nunca fue Figura 2. Variación diurna en el consumo de insectos (●), observado consumir o atacar a ningún pájaro o reptiles (●) y frutas (▲) por el Pitirre Real. polluelo. Además de los insectos, las lagartijas

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Figura 3. Fenología de la fructificación de los árboles que se alimenta el Pitirre Real.

Jagüey hembra aurea

Jubabán Trichilia hirta

Palma Real Roystonea regia

Chicharrón Terminalia intermedia

Ateje Cordia collococca

Guamá Lonchocarpus dominguensis

Caimitillo Zapota cainito

E F M A M J J A S O N D

Anolis y frutas ocuparon un lugar destacado en muy activos en campo abierto, sobre todo cerca la alimentación (Fig. 3), especialmente de forma de los caminos y en los cables del tendido estacional (Fig. 4). Se encontraron variaciones a eléctrico. Se observó que para beber agua, lo largo del día en la tasa de consumo de además de hacerlo volando sobre un espejo de alimentos. Las frutas eran consumidas prefer- agua, también aprovechan el rocío matinal, y entemente en las horas más frescas del día, ocasionalmente beben del interior de las plantas mientras que insectos y lagartijas lo fueron en epifitas, como orquídeas y bromelias. En varias las horas más cálidas (Fig. 2). ocasiones se observó a los juveniles ingerir flores Los conteos de insectos volando mostraron de árboles como el Guamá Lonchocarpus una variación considerable, pero se notó un dominguensis y el Piñón Gliricidia sepium,lo marcado cambio estacional en su abundancia en que nunca fue observado en los adultos. En la el área de estudio (Fig. 4) y entre un año Fig. 3 se muestran las especies de árboles de los ligeramente húmedo (1998) y otro extremada- que el Pitirre Real come sus frutos. Los más mente seco (1999). En 1999, el fenómeno importantes fueron el palmiche o fruto de la climatológico El Niño (ENSO) produjo una larga Palma Real Roystonea regia, de los que se sequía, y no fue hasta julio–agosto que se produjo alimenta durante todos los meses del año y los el pico de lluvias (y de abundancia de insectos), frutos del Jubabán o Cabo de Hacha Trichilia mientras que en años normales el pico de lluvias hirta (Meliaceae). Esta última especie pertenece es alcanzado en mayo. a un género de árboles con mayor cantidad de En los conteos se determinó que cinco grupos proteínas y lípidos contenidos en sus frutos9.Es de insectos eran los más disponibles para los un árbol muy común en Cuba, las frutas miden pitirres pero éstos no los capturaban en la misma de 10 a 14 mm de diámetro, y cada semilla está proporción (Tabla 2). Las avispas (Himenóptera) cubierta por un arilo rojo-anaranjado que tiene y las libélulas (Odonata) principalmente un promedio de 15% de proteínas y 59% de capturadas en las cercanías de árboles florecidos lípidos. Cuando el fruto madura, el exocarpo se resultaron las principales. abre dejando al descubierto las semillas que son La captura de insectos al vuelo se incrementó consumidas enteras por el Pitirre Real, que las en días previos a las lluvias, e incluso bajo la toma en vuelos cernidos frente al racimo. lluvia ligera. Casi siempre podían observarse Después de digerir el arilo el Pitirre Real regurgita las semillas intactas (obs. pers). Lo Tabla 2. Selección de insectos por el Pitirre Real Tyrannus mismo hace con el palmiche por lo que puede ser cubensis del total de insectos disponibles derivados de los considerado un importante dispersor de las conteos visuales. semillas de estos árboles.

Grupos de insectos % disponible % capturado Nidificación Lepidoptera 48,5 1,8 Gundlach11 señaló que el Pitirre Real construye Odonata 35,5 30,7 Himenóptera 3,2 10,5 sus nidos ‘en ramitas horizontales de árboles 12 Coleoptera 2,2 1,4 altos, e.g. en las ceibas’. Posteriormente dice ‘el Hymenoptera 10,6 55,6 nido está en lo alto de árboles grandes…’ pero no mencionó aquí a las ceibas. El único nido que se

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Tabla 3. Resumen de la productividad del Pitirre Real Tyrannus cubensis durante dos años de estudios en Najasa, Camagüey, Cuba. Indicadores 1998 1999 Número de nidos estudiados 3 3 Número de huevos por nidos 3 3 Promedio de pichones empollados por nidos 1,0 1,0 Promedio de pichones volando por nido 0,6 1,0 Porcentaje de nidos que nació al menos un pichón 66% 100% Porcentaje de nidos con pichones volando 66% 100%

ha colectado en Cuba6, depositado en las colecciones del Instituto de Ecología y Sistemática de La Habana, fue colectado el 28 de mayo de 1939, contenía tres huevos y estaba bien alto en la parte lateral de la copa de una ‘enorme Ceiba’ (ver también Balát & González2). En los censos de parejas nidificantes de 1999 se detectaron 27 parejas reproduciéndose entre Pitirre Real Tyrannus cubensis (Pedro Regalado). abril, mayo y junio, en el municipio Najasa. Todos los nidos estaban situados en ceibas Ceiba pentandra. En el año 1998 las parejas 1 y 3 escoger otro lugar para el nido, pero prefirieron construyeron sus nidos en las ramas bajas el que tenia mejor visibilidad y cercanía de los laterales de las ceibas, a una altura promedio de lugares donde habían muchos insectos volando y 12,5 m, y cerca del extremo de las mismas. La por lo tanto muchas oportunidades de pareja 2 construyó su nido en lo más alto de la alimentación. copa, terminándolo el 15 de junio, ya avanzada la En la Tabla 1 se señalan algunas caracterís- temporada de lluvias. El 12 julio un viento fuerte ticas de la nidificación y otros aspectos del ciclo derribó el nido, que había quedado desprotegido de vida de la especie. Aquí se aprecia que el debido a que una plaga de orugas comiera todo el Pitirre Real presenta el tipo de reproducción follaje. Por lo tanto se considera que el Pitirre asociado a la estrategia K. Esto incluye un bajo Real anida casi exclusivamente en las grandes esfuerzo reproductivo, lento desarrollo de los ceibas. Solamente en el año 2001 (abril) se pichones, cuidado parental prolongado y supues- encontró un nido en un sitio diferente e inusual. tamente (debido a la baja productividad), y alta Estaba situado en un árbol muerto, sin hojas, a tasa de supervivencia de los juveniles. El lento 6m de altura, y rodeado por una oficina, unos desarrollo de los pichones es también una baños públicos, una cocina, un gallinero, un adaptación a la variada disponibilidad de corral de carneros y otros de cerdos. Había muchos árboles vivos, y de mayor altura alrededor del nido, e incluso áreas boscosas con ceibas, por lo que las aves hubieran podido

Tabla 4. Alimentos vegetales consumidos por el Pitirre Real Tyrannus cubensis durante dos años de estudio. Indice de importancia alimentaria observada (I"ao). N/I = número de individuos comiendo el alimento I, N/O = número de obser- vaciones en que se vió comiendo el mismo y el rango de meses en que lo hace. Especies N/I N/O I"ao Meses Palma Real Roystonea regia 41 36 0,663 Todo el año Jubabán Trichilia hirta 30 28 0,499 (a) 5–8; 12–4 Jagüey Hembra Ficus aurea 21 19 0,344 (a) 8–10; 2–4 Chicharrón Terminalia intermedia 11 9 0,171 (a) 4–7; 10–11 Ateje Cordia collococca 99 0,154 4–5 Guamá Lonchocarpus dominguensis 650,094 4–6 Caimitillo Zapota cainito 440,068 12–2 Total 122 110

(a) Especies que fructifican dos veces al año en el área de estudio, con la Figura 4. Cambios mensuales en el consumo de reptiles primera muy abundante y la segunda más débil ( ● ) y frutas ( ● ).

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alimentos19, relacionada con las variables del clima (lluvia o sequía). El período de cuidado parental del Pitirre Real es inusualmente largo. Rara vez se reportan datos sobre la duración del cuidado parental después que los pichones dejan el nido en Passeriformes, pero éste suele variar de una a tres semanas, mientras que dura entre cinco y Figura 5. Distribución actual del Pitirre Real Tyrannus seis semanas en el caso del Pitirre Real. cubensis en Cuba.

Distribución en Cuba 1.600 ha de bosques, incluyendo bosques de Collar et al.8 relacionan las localidades, por galería y de ecotonos, en los últimos cinco años. provincia, donde el Pitirre Real fue reportado o El Pitirre Real demuestra ser muy sensible a los colectado, pero la mayoría de las colectas y cambios ambientales, desapareciendo de áreas reportes fueron hechos hace más de 40 años, y en donde apenas se talan unos pocos árboles, estas localidades se han producido desde alterando así la estructura del bosque. En el área entonces cambios radicales en el hábitat original, de La Zoilita la minería representa una seria que en casos ha llegado a desaparecer por amenaza, habiéndose destruido los pinares y los completo. Se presenta la distribución actual del bosques de madera dura de la región. pitirre (Fig. 5), con base en observaciones En Najasa apenas existe el área protegida ‘La personales y otros datos recientes20. Belén’ que solo ocupa el 0,5% de la región, y sería La primera región señalada (1) es la del importante declarar esta como una ‘Región grupo montañoso Sagua Baracoa, que comprende Especial de Desarrollo Sostenible’, a través de la las Sierras de Cristal, Sierra de , Meseta de nueva ley de Areas Protegidas, y que así se Maisí, Meseta del Guaso, norte de la Sierra de regule el desarrollo humano. La región de Najasa Maguey y la Sierra de Imías. En esta región el ocupa solamente el 0,8% del territorio de Cuba, Pitirre Real habita principalmente en los sin embargo posee el 70% de todas las aves del bosques de cafetales, donde, gracias a las labores país con 206 especies registradas16,y donde culturales del cultivo del café, los árboles se además han encontrado refugio la mitad (14) de mantienen espaciados y de gran tamaño. todas las especies amenazadas y presenta También puede verse en áreas de pinares, también el 58% de todas las aves endémicas (14), bosques de galería y en los ecotonos con áreas por lo que se considera una de las más abiertas. No se señala aquí la Sierra o importantes ‘Áreas de Importancia para las Aves’ Altiplanicie de Nipe, pese al registro existente (AIA) en todo el archipiélago cubano16. para Pinares de Mayarí13, ya que en más de 16 El primer paso necesario para la protección años de vivir y trabajar en esta región nunca se del Pitirre Real es realizar un censo a nivel observó a la especie allí. La cita más cercana nacional, a fin de conocer su población y sus corresponde a unos 20 km al sur, en los cafetales preferencias de hábitat. A ello debe seguirle la de Río Naranjo, La Güira y Paraiso, en la porción protección de los sitios donde se encuentren sur-occidental de la Sierra Cristal. Tampoco se poblaciones de la especie, así como un plan de incluye a La Zoilita (municipio de Mayarí), pese reforestación de ceibas donde fuera necesario. Se a que existe un reporte1, ya que por más de diez han perdido más de un 80% de los bosques años (1983–1994) no fue registrado allí (obs. naturales, por lo que es necesario revisar las pers.). Considero que estos reportes requieren políticas forestales de Cuba18. confirmación, ya que se he podido comprobado que muchos observadores de aves y ornitólogos Agradecimientos confunden en el campo al Pitirre Guatíbere o Mi profundo agradecimiento al Club de Aves Moñudo T. caudifasciatus con el Pitirre Real. Es Neotropical (NBC) por el Premio de Conservación justamente la característica implícita en el otorgado para realizar este trabajo. Además a Alan nombre vernáculo de T. caudifasciatus que Greensmith, Guy Kirwan y Andy Mitchell por el representa un carcater diagnóstico en el campo. interés y ayuda brindada. A mis amigos y colegas El Pitirre Real nunca presenta la ligera Arturo Kirkconnell y Vicente Berovides por la elongación de las plumas de la corona que se ven revisión crítica del manuscrito. A mi esposa Bertha González, por su ayuda en toda la fase de la investi- como un ‘moño’ en el Pitirre Guatíbere. gación. Conservación La destrucción y fragmentación del hábitat son las principales amenazas que encuentra el Pitirre Real3. En Najasa se han talado más de

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Cotinga 22 Biología del Pitirre Real Tyrannus cubensis, en Najasa, Camagüey, Cuba

Referencias 12. Gundlach, J. (1893) Ornitología cubana.La 1. Abreu, R. M., de la Cruz, J., Rams, A. & García, M. Habana: Ed. La Moderna. E. (1989) Vertebrado [sic] del complejo 13. Mazar Barnett, J. & Kirwan, G. M. (1999) montañoso ‘La Zoilita’. Holguín, Cuba. Poeyana Neotropical Notebook: Cuba. Cotinga 12: 87. 370. 14. Murphy, M. T. (1983) Ecological aspects of the 2. Balát, F. & González, H. (1982) Concrete data on reproductive biology of Eastern Kingbirds: the breeding of Cuban birds. Acta Sci. Nat. geographic comparisons. Ecology 64: 914–928. Brno 16 (8): 1–46. 15. Raffaele, H., Wiley, J., Garrido, O., Keith, A. & 3. BirdLife International (2000) Threatened birds Raffaele, J. (1998) A guide to the birds of the of the world. Cambridge, UK: BirdLife West Indies. Princeton, NJ: Princeton International & Barcelona: Lynx Edicions. University Press. 4. Blancher, P. J. & Robertson, R. J. (1987) Effect of 16. Regalado, P. (2002) Fundamentos para la food supply on the breeding biology of Western conservación de la biodiversidad en la región Kingbirds. Ecology 68: 723–732. de Najasa, Camagüey. Informe de trabajo para 5. Bond, J. (1936) Birds of the West Indies. el CITMA, Ministerio de Ciencia Tecnología y Philadelphia: Acad. Nat. Sci. Philadelphia. Medio Ambiente, Cuba. 6. Bond, J. (1941) Some West Indian eggs. Auk 58: 17. Reynard, G. B. & Garrido, O. H. (1978) Bird 109–110. songs in Cuba. Ithaca, NY: Cornell Laboratory 7. Bond, J. (1985) Birds of the West Indies. London, of Ornithology. UK: Collins. 18. Risco, E. del y Sotomayor, A. I. (1997) Los 8. Collar, N. J., Gonzaga, L. P., Krabbe, N., Madroño recursos boscosos de Cuba. Rev. Flora y Fauna Nieto, A., Naranjo, L. G., Parker, T. A. & Wege, 1:1. D. C. (1992) Threatened birds of the Americas: 19. Schoener, T.W. (1968) Sizes of feeding territories the ICBP-IUCN Red Data Book. Cambridge, among birds. Ecology 4: 123–141. UK: International Council for Bird 20. Suárez, W. (1998) Nueva localidad para la Preservation. distribución del Pitirre Real Tyrannus 9. Foster, M. S. y McDiarmid, R. W. (1983) cubensis (Aves: Tyrannidae) en Cuba. El Nutritional value of the Trichilia cuneat,a Pitirre 11: 1. bird-dispersed fruit. Biotropica 15: 26–31. 10. Garrido, O. H. & Kirkconnell, A. (2002) Field Pedro Regalado guide of the bird of Cuba. Ithaca, NY: Cornell c/o Apartado 161, Camagüey 4, C. P. 70100, Cuba. University Press. E-mail: [email protected]. 11. Gundlach, J. (1876) Contribuciones a la ornitología cubana. La Habana: Imprenta ‘La Antilla’.

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Cotinga 22

A bird survey of Torcillo-Sarayoj, the lower Yungas of Madidi National Park, Bolivia A. Bennett Hennessey Cotinga 22 (2004): 73–78

Mediante observación y grabación, realicé un estudio extenso de aves en el sitio prístino Torcillo- Sarayoj del bosque Yungas inferiores (EBA 054) de Parque Nacional Madidi del 6 al 17 de octubre de 2003, entre 1.600–1.800 msnm. Registré 156 especies de aves. El sitio tenía una posibilidad de 276 especies en relación a su ubicación y hábitat. El bajo nivel de diversidad encontrado puede ser un resultado de la ausencia de Yungas arriba de 2.000 msnm. Por encima de Torcillo-Sarayoj se encuentra el bosque seco y sabanas de la región de Apolo. En cuyo lugar no encontré las posibles especies amenazadas en el área de Pauxi unicornis (ni tampoco obtuve información local del pueblo de Sarayoj) y Terenura sharpei. La única especie amenazada en el lugar es la Paraba Ara militaris, que es común en los Yungas de Madidi. Además, encontré seis especies de rango-restringido de de 12 especies posibles. En conclusión, dado el pobre nivel de diversidad existente de aves en el lugar, es de gran prioridad realizar estudios en el oeste de la región de Torcillo-Sarayoj para verificar la zona más viable de los Yungas inferiores en Madidi y Bolivia.

In recent years the Yungas of Madidi have produced Birds were observed, sound-recorded and identifi- a number of avian range extensions and other cations verified using pre-recorded tapes or discoveries not predicted for the area3,5,10. Though playback, including ‘rebound’ playback (i.e. broad- some unpublished research has been conducted in casting the first response to playback). For rapid the lower Yungas of Madidi, no intensive single-site assessment surveys, bird vocalisations are the best ornithological study has been undertaken within evidence to verify identification9.I endeavoured to the park. Given the conservation priority of the tape-record all species at least once. Each evening I lower Yungas EBA14, it was imperative to conduct completed a checklist of the day’s observations, an initial rapid ornithological survey of the Torcillo- noting estimated abundances, field time, distance Sarayoj site.

Methods On 6–17 October 2002, I surveyed the lower Yungas forest at Torcillo-Sarayoj (Fig.1; 14o37’S 68o11’W, c.20 km east of Apolo), at 1,600–1,800 m. Torcillo- Sarayoj is a pristine lower Yungas forest, with the eastern, higher slopes above 2,000 m reaching Apolo valley dry savannas and dry forests. Part of the study area is on a slightly sloping plateau area at 1,700–1,800 m with old-growth forest. Below 1,700 a fairly steep slope had younger forest. The area was accessed via a trail to the village of Sarayoj, on the valley floor (1,200 m). Three camps were established for the survey: at 1,750 m, on 6–9 October, 1,700 m, on 10–13 October, and 1,800, on 14–17 October. I followed the trail to 1,600 m. Survey work was conducted on the main trail and Figure 1. Map of the western Yungas forest, dpto. La Paz, in two additional trails, opened at 1,700 m and Madidi National Park, showing the location of Torcillo- 1,800 m, with a total length of c.7 km. Sarayoj. Each morning, I surveyed different points at least 200 m apart9, arriving before sunrise and walked and evidence (sight records, heard or tape- identifying and sound-recording vocalisations of recorded). Taxonomy follows Hennessey et al.5 the dawn chorus. Thereafter, I surveyed different based on work by the South American Checklist trails, covering 1–3 km, and usually halting field Committee of the American Ornithologists’ Union work between 12h00 and 15h00. I used binoculars, (www.museum.lsu.edu/~Remsen/SACCBaseline.ht sound-recorders and pre-recorded reference tapes. ml, version 13/09/2002). The pre-recorded reference tapes were designed for the Bolivian Yungas, with examples of songs and calls indicative of individual and regional variation.

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Cotinga 22 A bird survey of Torcillo-Sarayoj, Bolivia

Results and discussion Southern Horned Curassow Pauxi unicornis A total of 156 species was found at 1,600–1,800 m In the isolated Yungas town of Sarayoj, near our at Torcillo-Sarayoj (Appendix 1). The Torcillo- study site, H. Aranibar and I conducted local Sarayoj site appears to be poor in species diversity, knowledge interviews, seeking any information compared to the 276 bird species possible for the regarding the globally threatened Pauxi unicornis. area, according to those known from dpto. La Paz, Local hunters were unfamiliar with the species, in relevant-elevation Yungas forest (not aquatic or even after we described the bird. Such people and open habitats), and not including austral indigenous communities are usually very familiar migrants5.I observed 57% of the possible birds for with cracids, as they are commonly hunted, and the area, which is more or less consistent with 50% their knowledge has been demonstrated to be most of the restricted-range, and 47% of the zoogeo- accurate2.I have conducted over 40 local knowledge graphic regional endemic, species possible for the interviews for P. unicornis with many communities area. and hunters in north-west Bolivia, i.e. in the area I believe that the rapid census covered at least between Peruvian populations and the southern- 90% of the birds present at the site at this season. most known populations, in Carrasco and Amboro Based on the list of possible birds, and other Yungas National Parks. There has been no indication of the studies in Bolivia3,5, the site could hold at least 70 species within this area, particularly in Madidi and additional species. The paucity of biological Pilón Lajas protected areas. The species requires diversity might be explained by the lack of urgent research, regarding historical sites, immediately adjacent viable moist Yungas forest population distribution and existing population above 2,000 m (Fig. 1). Yungas forests in Bolivia can viability. range to 3,600 m5. The mountain range above Torcillo-Sarayoj grades into Apolo inter-montane screech-owl Otus sp. dry forest and grassy savanna plateaux. Therefore, S. K. Herzog, S. R. Ewing and R. MacLeod collected species that require or prefer a higher altitudinal and tape-recorded a presently unidentified Otus in gradient may not occur in the area. Also, although Cochabamba, in September 2001 (S. Herzog pers. precipitation levels appear normal, with a high comm.). The bird may represent a new endemic abundance of epiphytes including bromeliads, year- Otus or variation within Cloud-forest Screech-owl round the area may experience a lower level of O. marshalli.I did not record individuals of this precipitation or an extended dry season, suggested form at Torcillo-Sarayoj but tape-recorded it at by its proximity to drier areas of Apolo. 2,300 m, at Inciensal Sauce, on 26 June 2002 (14o25’S 68o42’W), the first record for dpto. La Paz Species accounts and Madidi. Inciensal Sauce is c.35 km from Torcillo-Sarayoj. Grey Tinamou Tinamus tao At 17h05 on 9 October 2003, at 1,700 m, I sound- Andean Potoo Nyctibius maculosus recorded a 257-second song (Macaulay Library of The first record for Madidi involved one that was Natural Sounds, Cornell 105894, 105895) of sound-recorded on the nights of 15 and 16 October Tinamus tao. The song commenced with a typical 2002, at 1,800 m. R. & C. Cuevas commented that call note (1.1–1.3 kHz, 1 second), with repetitions in July–August, in the town of Virgen del Rosario o o equally paced, averaging every c.5 seconds (47 (14 36’S 68 41’W), on the río Tuichi in Madidi (900 calls). The call notes change progressively through m) the local community recognises the song of this the song, becoming more warbled but remaining at potoo as a signal to start seeding their crops. They the same frequency and spatial pattern. This long consider that the species is only present for c.2 song and the transition in call types were months each year, and the time of its arrival is an previously unknown for T. tao in the Bolivian indicator of the seasonal variation in precipitation. lowlands (pers. obs) or in any habitat outside of August is the height of the dry season in Bolivia. Bolivia. I heard this long song five times, always at This suggests the species might be an altitudinal dusk or dawn. Short sections of the warble calls had migrant in response to the dry season in the upper previously been sound-recorded in Carassco and Yungas, which is suspected to be the case for many Amboro National Parks (dptos. Cochabamba and species in the La Paz area. There is also the Santa Cruz)7,8 and also on the Serranía Eslabon, possibility that Andean Potoo only sings for a short Madidi (B. Whitney pers. comm.). T. tao of the period each year, but this is not supported by the Bolivian Yungas may be one of several taxa, singing behaviour of other potoos. currently categorised as subspecies, in the eastern Andean foothills that vocalise quite differently from Rufous Motmot Baryphthengus martii populations in the Amazonian lowlands (B. A pair observed and sound-recorded at 11h00, on 6 Whitney pers. comm.). Future research should October 2002, at 1,750 m, was an unusually high focus on vocal and plumage variation within T. tao. altitude record. Both individuals were seen well

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Cotinga 22 A bird survey of Torcillo-Sarayoj, Bolivia

and had complete tails, without missing barbs of Table 1. Restricted-range bird species possible in the the tail to produce a pendulum effect. Torcillo-Sarayoj area of the Bolivian and Peruvian Lower Yungas (EBA 054)14 and those recorded at Torcillo-Sarayoj Yellow-rumped Antwren Terenura sharpei and within Madidi National Park. I did not record the globally threatened1 Yellow- rumped Antwren Terenura sharpei at Species Torcillo-Sarayoj Madidi Torcillo-Sarayoj despite specific daily searches using Bolivian Recurvebill Simoxenops striatus x playback. Recently, the species has been discovered Upland Antshrike Thamnophilus aroyae xx to be more common than previously perceived along White-throated Antpitta Grallaria albigula xx the Manu road in central Peru (B. Walker pers. Ashy (Yungas) Antwren Myrmotherula grisea x comm.). The distribution and conservation status of Yellow-rumped Antwren Terenura sharpei this species is mysterious, with only five recent Hazel-fronted Pygmy-tyrant Pseudotriccus simplex x records in Bolivia: a sight record from the Bolivian Tyrannulet Zimmerius bolivianus xx Cochabamba–Villa Tunari road, Chaparé, 1 Yungas Tody-tyrant Hemitriccus spodiops x Cochabamba, in 1979 ;a specimen from the Unadorned Flycatcher Myiophobus inornatus xx Chaparé area, in 2001 (R. Brumfield pers. comm.); Yungas Manakin Chiroxiphia boliviana xx sight records and two specimens from km 35 and dentata xx km 47 on the road north-northwest of Carañavi, La Green-throated Tanager Tangara argyrofenges x Paz, in 1979–198011; and at least two observed at Serrania Bellavista c.15–20 km north-east of Carañavi, in 1997 (S. Herzog pers. comm.). The Armonía (BirdLife Bolivia) bird database contains Conservation no other records of this species, other than that of The only globally threatened species recorded in the type specimen, despite many visits by bird tours the area was Military Macaw Ara militaris, which 1 to relevant areas and specific field expeditions to is categorised as Vulnerable , and was uncommon Yungas sites. The species requires specific attention, in the area, with fewer observations than in the 4 as there is no known viable population site in Machariapo and Tuichi valleys c.30 km from Bolivia and it has not been found in any protected Torcillo-Sarayoj. All observations were of pairs in area5. high flight. Six restricted-range species were found at Silver-backed Tanager Tangara viridicollis Torcillo-Sarayoj, i.e. 50% of the 12 restricted-range On 15 October 2002, a female was observed feeding species possible for the area (Table 1). I have a fledged immature at 1,800 m, and a group of three excluded Pauxi unicornis for reasons explained (a bright-coloured male, a dull female and another, above. Simoxenops striatus, Myrmotherula grisea even duller, individual) foraging together at and Hemitriccus spodiops have been previously 1,700 m. This, elsewhere fairly common, canopy- recorded in Madidi, and the park is suspected to foraging flock species is now known from two sites protect viable populations. H. spodiops is a bamboo in Bolivia, the first being Tokoaque, also in Madidi3. specialist, which is not abundant at Torcillo- Sarayoj. P. simplex has been recorded once at 3 Silver-backed Tanager / Green-throated Tokoaque, Madidi . T. sharpei and T. argyrofenges Tanager T. argyrofenges hybrid are discussed above. On 15 October 2002, at 1,800 m, I observed a male An analysis of regional zoogeographic 15 Tangara viridicollis/argyrofenges hybrid foraging endemics revealed a similar low diversity, with 17 in an early successional fruiting tree that was zoogeographic endemic species present out of 36 attracting many canopy-foraging flock species. The possible for the area, ten of which have been 3,5 individual had a T. viridicollis-like rufous throat recorded in other parts of Madidi . patch and grey sides to the breast and belly, but like Given the relatively low diversity of the pristine T. argyrofenges had black wings and a bright Torcillo-Sarayoj area and the large expanse of cream/yellow back (the rump was not seen). It was cleared Yungas south-east of the park, priority followed by a dull female with a rufous-tinged should be placed on the lower Yungas of western throat like T. viridicollis. The Torcillo-Sarayoj area Madidi. The upper Yungas of this sector of Madidi, appears to represent the hybrid zone between the near the Peruvian border, was found to be species 3 northern-distributed T. a. argyrofenges and the rich and to contain many restricted-range species , southerly T. v. viridicollis6. The two forms of T. suggesting that the lower Yungas of this area might argyrofenges are separated by a c.1,000 km gap, be equally diverse. Study of the lower Yungas of with T. viridicollis inhabiting the intervening western Madidi is a high priority, in order to locate region6. the most viable area of such habitat in Bolivia.

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Acknowledgements 13. Schulenberg, T. S. (2000) Voices of Andean birds,2. I thank the Living Landscapes Program of the Wildlife Ithaca, NY: Library of Natural Sounds, Cornell Conservation Society (WCS), financed by Laboratory of Ornithology. USAID/Global and WCS International through 14. Stattersfield, A. J., Crosby, M. J., Long, A. J. & Wege, cooperative agreement LAG-A-00-99-00047-00. The D. C. (1998) Endemic Bird Areas of the world: opinions expressed are those of the author and do not priorities for biodiversity conservation. necessarily reflect USAID criteria. I am grateful to the Cambridge, UK: BirdLife International Bolivian Protected Areas Service (SERNAP) for (Conservation Series 7). permission to work in Madidi National Park. The 15. Stotz, D. F., Fitzpatrick, J. W., Parker, T. A. & support and facilities afforded by Armonía’s (BirdLife Moskovits, D. K. (1996) Neotropical birds: ecology Bolivia) Bird Conservation Centre, Bolivian Bird and conservation. Chicago: University of Chicago Database and their David Snow Library was Press. invaluable. The Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology’s Macaulay Library of Natural Sounds provided A. Bennett Hennessey equipment loans, tapes, and archival and reference Asociación Armonía/BirdLife International, Av. Lomas assistance. I acknowledge the assistance of J. C. Arvin, de Arena 400, Casilla 3566, Santa Cruz de la Sierra, A. Begazo, T. Schulenburg, B. Walker and B. Whitney. Bolivia. E-mail: [email protected]. Special thanks to ‘buena gente’ H. Aranibar, D. Cocafuerza, and the Cuevas brothers, Cosme, Ramiro Appendix 1. Bird species recorded in the Torcillo-Sarayoj area, Madidi and Rolando. National Park, Bolivia. Key: References Relative abundance (definition based on Stotz et al.15): C = common; F = fairly 1. BirdLife International (2000) Threatened birds of common; U = uncommon; R = rare. the world.Cambridge, UK: BirdLife Sociability: 1 = single individuals; 2 = pairs; 3 = family groups; 4 = gregarious; International & Barcelona: Lynx Edicions. CF = canopy foraging flock; UF = understorey foraging flock; ? = data 2. Hennessey, A. B. (1999) Conservation status and unknown. natural history of the Wattled Curassow in the Evidence: O = visual identification; A = acoustic identification; C = tape- lower Beni river area of Bolivia. Ann. Rev. World recording. Assoc. 1998/99: 56–61. 3. Hennessey, A. B. & Gomez, M. I. (2003) Four bird species new to Bolivia: an ornithological survey of the Yungas site Tokoaque, Madidi National Evidence Relative abundance Sociability 1,600 m Park. Cotinga 19: 25–33. Family/Species 1,800 m 1,700 m 4. Hennessey, A. B. (2001) Aves del bosque seco Scientific Name interandino en los valles de los ríos Tuichi y Machariapo, Parque Nacional Madidi, dept. La TINAMIDAE (2) Paz, Bolivia. Final report. La Paz: Wildlife Grey Tinamou Tinamus tao F1 XXC Conservation Society. Brown Tinamou Crypturellus obsoletus F1XXXC 5. Hennessey, A. B., Herzog, S. K. & Sagot, F. (2003) (1) Lista anotada de las aves de Bolivia.Quinta Spix’s Guan Penelope jacquacu R? XC edición. Santa Cruz de la Sierra: Asociación Armonía/BirdLife International. (2) 6. Isler, M. L. & Isler, P. R. (1999) The tanagers. Stripe-faced Wood-quail Odontophorus balliviani ??X A Second edn. London, UK: A. & C. Black. 7. Maccormick, A. & Macleod, R. (2000) Birds of the Rufous-breasted Wood-quail Bolivian Yungas: a sounds guide to Carrasco Odontophorus speciosus F? 3 X X X C National Park, Bolivia. Glasgow University: Bolivian Yungas Project. ACCIPITRIDAE (2) 8. Mayer, S. (2000) Birds of Bolivia 2.0. Swallow-tailed Kite Elanoides forficatus U1X O Westernieland: Bird Songs International. Plumbeous Kite Ictinia plumbea U1X O 9. Parker, T. A. (1991) On the use of tape recorders in avifaunal surveys. Auk 108: 443–444. FALCONIDAE (2) 10. Remsen, J. V. & Parker, T. A. (1995) Bolivia has the Barred Forest-falcon Micrastur ruficollis U1XX C opportunity to create the planet’s richest park for Orange-breasted Falcon Falco deiroleucus R1X C terrestrial biota. Bird Conserv. Intern.5: 181–199. (4) 11. Remsen, J. V., Parker, T. A. & Ridgely, R. S. (1982) Band-tailed Pigeon Columba fasciata R1X O Natural history notes on some poorly known Plumbeous Pigeon Columba plumbea C2XXXC Bolivian birds. Le Gerfaut 72: 77–87. Large-tailed Dove Leptotila megalura F1XX C 12. Remsen, J. V. & Traylor, M. A. (1989) An annotated White-throated Quail-dove Geotrygon frenata F1XX C list of the birds of Bolivia.Vermillion, SD: Buteo Books. PSITTACIDAE (6) Military Macaw Ara militaris R2 X C Green-cheeked Parakeet Pyrrhura molinae C4XXXC

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Barred Parakeet Bolborhynchus lineola C4XXXC DENDROCOLAPTIDAE (5) Red-billed Parrot Pionus sordidus F4 X C Olivaceous Woodcreeper Plum-crowned Parrot Pionus tumultuosus ?4 X C Sittasomus griseicapillus CCFXX XC Scaly-naped Parrot Amazona mercenaria F 2,4 X C Strong-billed Woodcreeper Xiphocolaptes promeropirhynchus U1 XA CUCULIDAE (1) Black-banded Woodcreeper Squirrel Cuckoo Piaya cayana R1 XC Dendrocolaptes picumnus U 1,CF X X C Olive-backed Woodcreeper STRIGIDAE (2) Xiphorhynchus triangularis FCFXX XC Rufescent Screech-owl Otus ingens F 1,2 X X X C Montane Woodcreeper Lepidocolaptes lacrymiger FCFXX C Rufous-banded Owl Ciccaba albitarsus F1X C FURNARIIDAE (10) STEATORNITHIDAE (1) Azara’s Spinetail Synallaxis azarae F 1,3 X C Steatornis caripensis R1X A Ash-browed Spinetail Cranioleuca curtata FCFXX XC Spotted Barbtail Premnoplex brunnescens UUF X XC NYCTIBIIDAE (1) Streaked Tuftedcheek Andean Potoo Nyctibius maculosus R1X C Pseudocolaptes boissonneautii R?X C Montane Foliage-gleaner Anabacerthia striaticollis F CF,UF X X X O CAPRIMULGIDAE (1) Buff-browed Foliage-gleaner Ocellated Poorwill Nyctiphrynus ocellatus F1 XXC Syndactyla rufosuperciliata C 3,CF,UFX X X C Striped Woodhaunter Hyloctistes subulatus R?X A APODIDAE (2) Buff-fronted Foliage-gleaner Philydor rufus FCF X XC Chestnut-collared Swift Streptoprocne rutila R4 X C Striped Treehunter Thripadectes holostictus R1 XC White-collared Swift Streptoprocne zonaris F4XXXC Streaked Xenops Xenops rutilans RCF X O

TROCHILIDAE (8) FORMICARIIDAE (8) Phaethornis ruber R1X O Fasciated Antshrike Cymbilaimus lineatus RUF X O Long-tailed Hermit Phaethornis malaris F1 XO Upland Antshrike Thamnophilus aroyae U1 X A Brown Violetear Colibri delphinae R1 X O Plain Antvireo Dysithamnus mentalis F 2,UF X X X C Green Violetear Colibri thalassinus U1 XXC White-backed Fire-eye Pyriglena leuconota F 1,UF X X X C Fork-tailed Woodnymph Thalurania furcata R1XX O Short-tailed Antthrush Chamaeza campanisona C1XXXC Speckled Hummingbird Adelomyia melanogenys F1XXXC White-throated Antpitta Grallaria albigula F1XX C Booted Racket-tail Ocreatus underwoodii U1X O Scaled Antpitta Grallaria guatimalensis U1XXXC Long-tailed Sylph Aglaiocercus kingi F1X O CONOPOPHAGIDAE (1) TROGONIDAE (3) Slaty ardesiaca R2 XC Masked Trogon Trogon personatus F 1,2 X X X C Crested Quetzal Pharomachrus antisianus F 1,2 X X X C RHINOCRYPTIDAE (1) Golden-headed Quetzal Pharomachrus auriceps R1X A Bolivian Tapaculo Scytalopus bolivianus F1XXXC

MOMOTIDAE (1) TYRANNIDAE (23) Rufous Motmot Baryphthengus martii F2 XXC Rough-legged Tyrannulet Phyllomyias burmeisteri FCF XC Sclater’s Tyrannulet Phyllomyias sclateri UCF XO CAPITONIDAE (1) Sierran Elaenia Elaenia pallatangae F1X C Versicoloured Barbet Eubucco versicolor C 1,2 X X X C Southern Beardless-tyrannulet Camptostoma obsoletum RUFX O RAMPHASTIDAE (3) White-throated Tyrannulet Blue-banded Toucanet Mecocerculus leucophrys RCF X O Aulacorhynchus coeruleicinctis F 1,4 X C Bolivian Tyrannulet Zimmerius bolivianus RCF XO Chestnut-tipped Toucanet Slender-footed Tyrannulet Zimmerius gracilipes RCF XC Aulacorhynchus derbianus F1XXXC Marble-faced Bristle-tyrant Yellow-ridged Toucan Ramphastos vitellinus R1 XC Phylloscartes ophthalmicus CCFXX XC Streak-necked Flycatcher Mionectes striaticollis RUFX O PICIDAE (6) Slaty-capped Flycatcher Leptopogon superciliaris CCFXX XC Bar-breasted Piculet Picumnus aurifrons R1 XO White-bellied Pygmy-tyrant Myiornis albiventris U 1,CF X C Ocellated Piculet Picumnus dorbygnianus RCF XO Yellow-olive Flycatcher Tolmomyias sulphurescens R1 XC Red-stained Woodpecker Veniliornis affinis R1 XA White-throated Spadebill Platyrinchus mystaceus RUFX C Crimson-mantled Woodpecker Piculus rivolii F1XXXA Unadorned Flycatcher Myiophobus inornatus F 1,2 X X X C Golden-olive Woodpecker Piculus rubiginosus F1XX A Cinnamon Flycatcher Pyrrhomyias cinnamomea UCFXX XO Red-necked Woodpecker Campephilus rubricollis F 1,2 X X X C Fuscous Flycatcher Cnemotriccus fuscatus RCF XO Smoke-coloured Pewee Contopus fumigatus F1XXXC Golden-crowned Flycatcher

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Cotinga 22 A bird survey of Torcillo-Sarayoj, Bolivia

Myiodynastes chrysocephalus F1X C Purple Honeycreeper Cyanerpes caeruleus RCF XO Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher Conirostrum albifrons RCFX O Myiodynastes luteiventris RCF XO Deep-blue Flowerpiercer Diglossa glauca FCFXX O Pale-edged Flycatcher Myiarchus cephalotes R1X O Hepatic Tanager Piranga flava UCFXX XO Large-headed Flatbill Ramphotrigon megacephala R? XC White-winged Tanager Piranga leucoptera UCF XO Masked Tityra Tityra semifasciata F 1,3 X X X C Red-crowned Ant-tanager Habia rubica FUF XC Thrush-like Schiffornis Schiffornis turdinus F 1,2 X X C Thick-billed Euphonia Euphonia laniirostris R1 XC Bronze-green Euphonia Euphonia mesochrysa U 4,CF X X X C COTINGIDAE (3) Orange-bellied Euphonia Euphonia xanthogaster C 3,CF X X X C Scarlet-breasted Fruiteater Pipreola frontalis RCF XO Blue-naped Chlorophonia Chlorophonia cyanea F 2,UF,CFX X X C Andean Cock-of-the-rock Rupicola peruviana C 1,4 X X X C Amazonian Cephalopterus ornatus R1X O EMBERIZINAE (2) Stripe-headed Brush-finch Buarremon torquatus UUFX C PIPRIDAE (2) Rufous-naped Brush-finch Atlapetes rufinucha F1,3,UF X X X C Yungas Manakin Chiroxiphia boliviana C 1,4 X X X C Wing-barred Piprites Piprites chloris C1XXXC CARDINALINAE (1) Black-backed Grosbeak Pheucticus aureoventris UCFXX XC VIREONIDAE (1) Brown-capped Vireo Vireo leucophrys F 1,CF X X X C PARULINAE (5) Tropical Parula Parula pitiayumi UCFXX XO CORVIDAE (2) Slate-throated Whitestart Myioborus miniatus C 1,CF X X X C White-collared Jay Cyanolyca viridicyana R1 XA Russet-crowned Warbler Basileuterus coronatus F 3,UF X C Green Jay Cyanocorax yncas F 1,2,3,4 X X X C Pale-legged Warbler Basileuterus signatus UUFX C TROGLODYTIDAE (4) Three-striped Warbler Basileuterus tristriatus CUFXX XC Grey-mantled Wren Odontorchilus branickii FCFXX XC Mountain Wren Troglodytes solstitialis F 1,CF X C ICTERIDAE (3) Grey-breasted Wood-wren Dusky-green Oropendola Psarocolius atrovirens C4XXXC Henicorhina leucophrys F 1,2 X X X C Crested Oropendola Psarocolius decumanus U4 XC Chestnut-breasted Wren thoracicus F1 X C Mountain Cacique Cacicus chrysopterus R1XX O

TURDINAE (6) Andean Myadestes ralloides F1XXXC Spotted Nightingale-thrush Catharus dryas F1XX O White-eared Solitaire Entomodestes leucotis F1XX C Pale-eyed Thrush Platycichla leucops F1XX C White-necked Thrush Turdus albicollis F 1,UF X X X C Black-billed Thrush Turdus ignobilis R1X C

THRAUPINAE (31) Slaty Tanager Creurgops dentata RCFX O Black-eared Hemispingus Hemispingus melanotis FUFXX O Black-goggled Tanager Trichothraupis melanops RUF XO White-lined Tanager Tachyphonus rufus RCF X O White-winged Shrike-tanager Lanio versicolor UCFXX O Palm Tanager Thraupis palmarum FCF XC Blue-winged Mountain-tanager Anisognathus flavinucha FCFXX XC Fawn-breasted Tanager Pipraeidea melanonota UCFXX O Common Bush-tanager Chlorospingus ophthalmicus C 3,CF,UFX X X C Orange-eared Tanager Chlorochrysa calliparaea UCFXX C Golden Tanager Tangara arthus UCFXX XO Golden-eared Tanager Tangara chrysotis RCFXX O Blue-necked Tanager Tangara cyanicollis FCFXX XC Blue-browed Tanager Tangara cyanotis FCFXX XC Beryl-spangled Tanager Tangara nigroviridis FCFXX XO Spotted Tanager Tangara punctata UCFXX XO Golden-naped Tanager Tangara ruficervix FCF X XO Green-and-gold Tanager Tangara schrankii RCF XO Blue-and-black Tanager Tangara vassorii UCF XO Silver-backed Tanager Tangara viridicollis FCFXX O Saffron-crowned Tanager Tangara xanthocephala FCFXX XO

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Cotinga 22

Notes on Cock-tailed Tyrant Alectrurus tricolor in Bolivia José M. Padial and Javier Heredia Cotinga 22 (2004): 79–80

Se aportan datos inéditos sobre la distribución, el uso del hábitat y el comportamiento del avioncito Alectrurus tricolor en Bolivia. La mayoría de las observaciones se realizaron en el oeste del Departamento Beni. Esta especie es considerada rara y posee una distribución irregular, restringida a sabanas parcialmente inundadas de gramíneas naturales (tiende a evitar los pastos cultivados para el ganado vacuno). Se observó la parada nupcial y la competición entre machos en noviembre y un juvenil en febrero.

Cock-tailed Tyrant Alectrurus tricolor primarily observed with an adult female. These records are inhabits open Cerrado formations, in Bolivia, c.50 km from Beni Biosphere Reserve and Paraguay and Brazil, and is considered Biological Station (EBB), in the provinces of Vulnerable4. In Bolivia it is known from a few Ballivian and Santa Ana, where Cabot et al.6, scattered localities in the savannas of dptos. Beni, Rocha12 and Rocha13 failed to locate A. tricolor, but Santa Cruz and La Paz4,8 but is absent from large Brace et al.5 cited the species for the EBB, and areas5,9. Knowledge of the species’ conservation noted it as widespread, albeit patchily so, in the status, biology and distribution is poor4 and there is lowlands of Beni, where they considered it to be no specific work concerning A. tricolor in Bolivia. rare. During field work in 1997–2000, JH observed In the north, also in Ballivian province, in several individuals in areas where the species had Cantón Santa Rosa de Yacuma, seven were not been previously reported. Here, we contribute observed at c.13o20’S 66o35’W. In February 1999, a to knowledge of the distribution and natural young and an adult male were between Estancia history of Cock-tailed Tyrant in Bolivia. Siete Palmas and Casa Blanca. In August 1999 Dpto. Beni, in east Bolivia, is mostly covered by another male was nearby, between Entre Ríos and seasonally flooded savannas, forming a flat region Ponton Yata. In December 2000, between Entre at 130–250 m composed of grassland, forest islands, Ríos and Estancia la India a male was observed, gallery forest, with flooded areas in the rainy and another was between Entre Ríos and Casa season3. Mean annual temperature is 26oC and Blanca. At Estancia Media Luna (13o37’S 66o53’W), mean annual rainfall 1,000–2,000 mm, with 2–6 two males were observed, one in April and one in arid months. Although belonging to the Amazon June 1999. All these records are within 50 km, and basin very few biogeographic connections exist7. west of the Santa Ana–Guayaramerín highway. The northern savannas are closely related to the The closest previously known population of A. Cerrado, whilst the southern area is more similar tricolor is at Estancia Inglaterra (13o30’S 66o30’W; to Pantanal. Yacuma province)11, east of the aforementioned highway, near the río Yata. The observations were Distributional records in 1979, when Cock-tailed Tyrant was observed 1–2 We report observations of Cock-tailed Tyrants in times each day, and it was considered uncommon two areas (one in the southern and one in the there. northern savannas) of dpto. Beni. In the south, in In Iténez Province (Beni) two males were Ballivian province, we detected the species in the observed, singles in February and July 2000, Cantón de San Borja, near the village of San Borja between Orobabayaya and Magadalena in Reserva (14o51’S 66o45’W). Although the species was Iténez14. These records are the easternmost in already known from this area9, the record was old, Beni8. and nobody reported another sighting until now. This population was observed over a period of four Natural history observations years, in November–December 1997, November Males used low, seasonally flooded grassland, but 1998, January 1999 and December 2000. never areas with introduced grass for cattle Observations were made from a car, along the roads grazing. They were sometimes found in dry areas between the río Cataburi to Chaparina (seven near water. In perching, the species uses bare upper visits); from Cataburi and Termópilas; branches of small bushes (0.7–1.5 m) and fence Chaparina–Termópilas and San Borja–Santa Rosa wires beside roads. Cock-tailed Tyrant performs (one visit each). In all but one visit to the aforemen- aerial sallies for small flying insects and usually tioned localities, single males were detected. On the returns to the same perch. The escape flight is a Cataburi–Chaparina road, we found a maximum of zigzag, but normally it uses a parabolic flight to five individuals; once, three adults males were move between perches.

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Cotinga 22 Cock-tailed Tyrant in Bolivia

Most observations were of lone males, only twice 5. Brace, R. C., Hornbuckle, J. & Pearce-Higgins, J. W. was more than one observed: an adult male and a (1997) The avifauna of the Beni Biological juvenile in February 1999 and, in November 1998, Station, Bolivia. Bird Conserv. Intern.7: three rival males attempted to mate with a single 117–159. female. Display consisted of acrobatic flights and 6. Cabot, J., Serrano, P., Ibáñez, C. & Braza, F. (1986) calls. The female perched near each male, until Lista preliminar de aves y mamíferos de la reserva “Estación Biológica Beni”. Ecología en finally choosing one. The other males continued Bolivia 8: 37–44. displaying, unsuccessfully, and thereafter departed. 7. Hanagarth, W. & Beck, S. G. (1996) Biogeographie Cock-tailed Tyrant was not observed in the der Beni-Savannen (Bolivien). Geographische 10 campos rupestres of Beni , although habitat Rundschau 48: 662–668. appears suitable. We have also not found it in many 8. Hennessey, A. B., Herzog, S. K. & Sagot, F. (2003) others parts of the wet Beni savannas. Perhaps it Lista anotada de las aves de Bolivia. Quinta possesses special habitat preferences that edición. Santa Cruz de la Sierra: Asociación contribute to a fragmented distribution. In Noel Armonia/BirdLife International. Kempff Mercado National Park, adjacent to Beni, 9. Parker, T.A., Castillo, V.A., Gell-Mann, M. & Rocha which belongs to the Amazonian-Cerrado region of O.,O.(1991) Records of new and unusual birds dpto. Santa Cruz, the species is unknown despite from northern Bolivia. Bull. Brit. Orn. Club 111: intensive field work2.Available information is 120–138. insufficient to determine the conservation status of 10. Parker, T. A. & Rocha, O. (1991) La avifauna del Cock-tailed Tyrant in Bolivia, but it appears Cerro San Simón, una localidad de campo rupestre aislado en el departamento Beni, uncommon and of restricted distribution. More field noreste boliviano. Ecología en Bolivia 17: 15–29. work and compilation of the scattered unpublished 11. Remsen, J. V. (1986) Aves de una localidad en la information is needed. sabana húmeda del norte de Bolivia. Ecología en Bolivia 8: 21–35. Acknowledgements 12. Rocha, O. (1988) Adición de especies a la avifauna Our work was funded by Hombre y Naturaleza: de la Reserva de la Biosfera “Estación Biológica Bolivia, and Asociación Amigos de Doñana, and Beni”, Bolivia. Ecología en Bolivia 12: 13–15. partially by the project Conservación de la 13. Rocha, O. (1990) Lista preliminar de aves de la Biodiversidad y Ecodesarrollo en la Reserva Iténez (El Reserva de la Biosfera “Estación Biológica Beni”. Beni, Bolivia), founded by Gobierno Foral de Navarra Ecología en Bolivia 15: 57–68. (Spain) in collaboration with Prefectura del Beni 14. Ten, S., Liceaga, I., González, M., Jiménez, J., (Bolivia). Thanks to Dr Javier Castroviejo and Manuel Torres, L., Vázquez, R., Heredia, J. & Padial, J. M. Español for their encouragement. Silvia Ten and Mario (2001) Reserva Inmovilizada Iténez: primer González helped in Beni. Students from San Borja listado de vertebrados. Rev. Bol. Ecol. Conserv. assisted the field work, and the staff of Armonía are Amb. 10: 81–110. thanked, especially those who provided access to their database and bibliography. Sebastian Herzog critically José M. Padial reviewed an earlier draft of the manuscript. Museo de Historia Natural Noel Kemppf Mercado, Area de Zoología, Av. Irala 561, Casilla 2489, Santa Cruz de References la Sierra, Bolivia. E-mail: [email protected]. 1. Armonía (1995) Lista de las aves de Bolivia. Cuarta edición. Santa Cruz de la Sierra: Javier Heredia Armonía/BirdLife International. C/ Sarbil, 1, 31174 Etxauri, Navarra, Spain. E-mail: 2. Bates, J. M. & Parker, T. A. (1998) The avifauna of [email protected]. Parque Nacional Noel Kempff Mercado and surrounding areas. In: Killen, T. J. & Schulenberg, T. S. (eds.) A biological assessment of Parque Nacional de Noel Kempff Mercado, Bolivia. RAP Working Papers 10. Washington DC: Conservation International. 3. Beck, S. G., Killeen, T. J. & García, E. E. (1993) Vegetación de Bolivia. In: Killeen, T. J., García, E. E. & Beck, S. G. (eds.) Guía de árboles de Bolivia. La Paz: Herbario Nacional de Bolivia & St Louis: Missouri Botanical Garden. 4. BirdLife International (2000) Threatened birds of the world.Cambridge, UK: BirdLife International & Barcelona: Lynx Edicions.

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Cotinga 22

Preliminary bird observations in the rio Jauaperí region, rio Negro basin, Amazonia, Brazil Mogens Trolle and Bruno A. Walther Cotinga 22 (2004): 81–85

Um total de 191 espécies de aves foi observado durante um levantamento de mamíferos feito na Reserva Natural de Xixuaú, situada na margem esquerda do curso médio do rio Jauaperí, Roraima, Brasil. Estas observações preliminares sugerem que cerca de 200 outras espécies poderão ainda ser encontradas na reserva caso haja continuidade do trabalho ornitológico. O pato-corredor, Neochen jubata, foi o único registro de espécie listada como Quase Ameaçada pela BirdLife International. Em três diferentes estações de auto-foto (camera-trap), indivíduos de urubu-da-mata Cathartes melambrotos foram atraídos por iscas de peixe colocadas sob folhas secas, o que sugere que o olfato tenha sido utilizado na localização das iscas.

The Amazon rainforest is sufficiently large that rainy season, when waters rose considerably, vast areas have never been ornithologically flooding the lower igapó forest). During this visit, explored. For the entire rio Negro catchment, we MT walked almost daily one of nine 3–6 km-long are only aware of two published studies of the local trails situated on both sides of an 8-km stretch of avifauna, both along the rio Jaú3,4, although there the lower rio Xixuaú and its tributaries. These may be others. Therefore, we report on ornithologi- trails typically started at the river and led inland, cal observations made during a mammal survey17 of thus covering all of the above-mentioned terrestrial the remote Xixuaú Nature Reserve which has also habitats. Walks usually started in early morning never been ornithologically explored. The reserve and lasted 5–8 hours. The main focus was to can be visited by contacting the Amazon observe mammals, but any bird species was also Association (www.amazonia.org), which will arange carefully observed and, if possible, identified using transportation from Manaus. The boat trip from various field guides6,7,9,13–15. Additional bird obser- Manaus to Xixuaú takes c.2 full days. vations were made from the canoe when travelling Accommodation at the headquarters is in rustic to the trails. Several were photographed, some with huts with hammocks or beds. Camps further the help of automatic TrailMaster© camera traps upriver can be arranged. We hope that these which were baited with various foods, mainly to preliminary observations are valuable, even if they attract mammals. are incomplete, and that they will spark further The methodology did not permit the compilation ornithological research at this very interesting of a complete avian inventory or reliable lowland site. assessments of abundance. However, great care was taken to exclude uncertain species identifications. Study area and methods We also include an abundance category for each The study was conducted in the Xixuaú Nature species (see Table 1), but caution that only the Reserve, on the west bank of the middle rio common category is reliable, as these bird species Jauaperí, Roraima, Brazil (headquarters at 00o48’S were indeed seen frequently, if not daily. Species 61o33’W). A few observations made on the east that are categorised as rare or single observations bank of the rio Jauaperí (in Amazonas state) are may be more common, but were simply not detected also included. The reserve is situated in the black- because of the sampling methodology. Furthermore, water river system of the rio Negro and consists of because of the observational method employed, the typical major forest types of the region: high, under- and midstorey birds had a much greater unflooded terra firme forest and lower, seasonally probability of being observed than canopy species. flooded igapó forest, as well as secondary forest in various successional stages, minor plantations, Results minor watercourses and oxbow lakes16. The study A total of 185 species was observed in Xixuaú focused on the area of, and around, the lower rio Nature Reserve, and another six species on the rio Xixuaú, a narrow tributary of the rio Jauaperí. Jauaperí (Table 1). Of these, seven could have The area was first visited for one month, in involved one of two sister taxa, and another six August 1996, at the peak of the flood season, when species were only identified to genus. Of the MT explored the watercourses, lakes and inundated recorded species, 111 (58%) were non-, igapó by canoe. MT again visited the reserve in and 100, 39, and 52 species were categorised as January–April 2001 (i.e. from the peak of the low- common, rare or involved single observations. Of water season, when sandy beaches were present, these, only Orinoco Neochen jubata is listed especially on the rio Jauaperí, until the start of the as Near Threatened by BirdLife International2.

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Cotinga 22 Bird observations in the rio Jauaperí region, Brazil

Table 1. List of bird species recorded in the lower rio Xixuaú Cracidae area, with additional records from ¶nearby on the rio Jauaperí, Ortalis motmot Little s c above the village of São Pedro and ¥on the rio Jauaperí below Penelope jacquacu Spix's Guan s c São Pedro (e = observed on the east bank, Amazonas state; w Pipile pipile Blue-throated Piping-guan s c Crax alector Black Curassow s c = observed on the west bank of the river, Roraima state). 15 Mitu tomentosa* Lesser Razor-billed Curassow a c Nomenclature and systematics follow Sick . Evidence: s = Phasianidae sight record, p = photographed by Mogens Trolle (MT) or Erik Odontophorus gujanensis Marbled Wood-quail s s Falk (EF) in the Xixuaú area, a = vocalisation heard. Abundance: c = common (>5 observations), r = rare (2–5 Opisthocomus hoazin Hoatzin s r observations), s = single observation. *Mitu tomentosa was Psophiidae assumed to be present because locals reported a second Psophia crepitans Grey-winged Trumpeter p (MT) c species of curassow, and the call of a second curassow species Rallidae was repeatedly heard in the igapó forest. **Pionopsitta Aramides cajanea Grey-necked Wood-rail s c Heliornithidae barrabandi was identified due to the characteristic orange *** Heliomis fulica Sungrebe s r cheek. Myrmotherula cherriei was identified due to the Eurypygidae presence of the characteristically streaked female. Eurypyga helias Sunbittern s c Charadriidae Vanellus chilensis Southern Lapwing s r Hoploxypterus cayanus (e, w) Pied Lapwing s c Charadrius collaris (e, w) Collared Plover s r Family and species Scolopacidae Tringa solitaria Solitary Sandpiper s r Evidence Tinamidae Abundance Laridae Tinamus major Great Tinamou p (MT) c Phaetusa simplex Large-billed Tern s c Crypturellus soui Little Tinamou s r Sterna superciliaris Yellow-billed Tern s c Crypturellus undulatus Undulated Tinamou p (MT) c Rynchopidae Phalacrocoracidae Rynchops niger Black Skimmer s c Phalacracorax brasilianus Neotropic s c Columbidae Anhingidae Columba speciosa Scaled Pigeon s s Anhinga anhinga Anhinga s c Columba subvinacea Ruddy Pigeon s, a c Ardeidae Columbina passerina Common Ground-dove s c Ardea cocoi White-necked Heron s c Geotrygon montana Ruddy Quail-dove s s Casmerodius albus Great Egret s c Psittacidae Butorides striatus Green-backed Heron s c Ara ararauna Blue-and-yellow Macaw s c Pilherodius pileatus Capped Heron s s (e, w) Ara macao Scarlet Macaw s c Tigrisoma lineatum Rufescent Tiger-heron s c Ara chloroptera Red-and-green Macaw s c Threskiornithidae Ara severa Chestnut-fronted Macaw s r Mesembrinibis cayennensis Green Ibis s c Aratinga leucophthalmus White-eyed Parakeet s c Platalea ajaja Roseate Spoonbill p (EF) s Aratinga pertinax Brown-throated Parakeet s r Ciconiidae Brotogeris chrysopterus Golden-winged Parakeet s r Mycteria americana Wood s r Pionopsitta barrabandi** Orange-cheeked Parrot s r Jabiru mycteria Jabiru p (EF) s Pionus menstruus Blue-headed Parrot s c Cathartidae Amazona festiva Festive Parrot s c Sarcoramphus papa King Vulture p (MT) c Amazona amazonica Orange-winged Parrot s c Coragyps atratus Black Vulture s c Deroptyus accipitrinus Red-fan Parrot s c Cathartes aura Turkey Vulture s c Cuculidae Cathartes melambrotos Coccyzus melacoryphus Dark-billed Cuckoo s s Greater Yellow-headed Vulture p (MT) c Piaya cayana Squirrel Cuckoo s c Anatidae (w) ¥ (e, w) Crotophaga ani Smooth-billed Ani s r Neochen jubata Orinoco Goose s s Crotophaga major Greater Ani s c Cairina moschata s c Nyctibiidae Accipitridae Nyctibius griseus Common Potoo a c Gampsonyx swainsonii Pearl Kite s s Caprimulgidae Elanoides forficatus Swallow-tailed Kite s c Nyctiprogne leucopyga Band-tailed Nighthawk s c Leptodon cayanensis Grey-headed Kite s s Nyctidromus albicollis Pauraque a c Harpagus bidentatus Double-toothed Kite s s Caprimulgus nigrescens Blackish Nightjar s s Ictinia plumbea Plumbeous Kite s c Apodidae Rupornis magnirostris Roadside Hawk s c Chaetura spinicauda Band-rumped Swift s c Busarellus nigricollis Black-collared Hawk s s Trochilidae Buteogallus urubitinga Great Black-hawk p (MT) r Phaethornis sp. unidentified hermit s c Geranospiza caerulescens Hawk s r Phaethornis ruber Reddish Hermit s c Pandionidae Campylopterus largipennis Grey-breasted Sabrewing s s Pandion haliaetus Osprey s c Thalurania furcata Fork-tailed Woodnymph s s Falconidae (w) Heliothryx aurita Black-eared Fairy s s Herpetotheres cachinnans Laughing Falcon s s Trogonidae Daptrius ater Black Caracara s c Trogon melanurus Black-tailed Trogon s s Daptrius americanus Red-throated Caracara s r Trogon viridis White-tailed Trogon s c Falco rufigularis Bat Falcon s c

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Cotinga 22 Bird observations in the rio Jauaperí region, Brazil

Trogon violaceus Violaceous Trogon s c Tyrannidae Alcedinidae Tyrannulus elatus Yellow-crowned Tyrannulet s s Ceryle torquata Ringed Kingfisher s c Mionectes oleagineus Ochre-bellied Flycatcher s s Chloroceryle amazona Amazon Kingfisher s c Todirostrum maculatum Spotted Tody-flycatcher s r Chloroceryle americana Green Kingfisher s c hypopyrrha s s Chloroceryle inda Green-and-rufous Kingfisher s c Myiarchus sp. unidentified flycatcher s s Momotidae Pitangus sulphuratus Great Kiskadee s c Momotus momota Blue-crowned Motmot s, a c Philohydor lictor Lesser Kiskadee s c Galbulidae Myiozetetes cayanensis Rusty-margined Flycatcher s c Galbula albirostris Yellow-billed Jacamar s s Myiodynastes maculatus Streaked Flycatcher s r Galbula galbula Green-tailed Jacamar s c Legatus leucophaius Piratic Flycatcher s r Galbula leucogastra Bronzy Jacamar s c Tyrannus savana Fork-tailed Flycatcher s r Galbula dea Paradise Jacamar s c Tyrannus melancholicus Tropical Kingbird s c Bucconidae Pachyramphus polychopterus/marginatus Bucco tamatia Spotted Puffbird s s White-winged/Black-capped Becard s s atra Black Nunbird s c Tityra cayana Black-tailed Tityra s r Chelidoptera tenebrosa Swallow-wing s c Pipridae Capitonidae Pipra erythrocephala Golden-headed Manakin s r Capito niger Black-spotted Barbet s s Pipra pipra White-crowned Manakin s c Ramphastidae Manacus manacus White-bearded Manakin s s Pteroglossus viridis Green Aracari s c Heterocercus flavivertex Yellow-crested Manakin s s Ramphastos vitellinus Channel-billed Toucan s c Cotingidae Ramphastos tucanus Red-billed Toucan s c punicea s s Picidae vociferans s, a c Picumnus sp. unidentified piculet s s Perissocephalus tricolor s r Colaptes punctigula Spot-breasted Woodpecker s r Gymnoderus foetidus Bare-necked Fruitcrow s r Piculus flavigula Yellow-throated Woodpecker s s Hirundinidae elegans Chestnut Woodpecker s s Tachycineta albiventer White-winged Swallow s c Celeus grammicus/undatus Phaeoprogne tapera Brown-chested Martin s c Scale-breasted/Waved Woodpecker s r Progne chalybea Grey-breasted Martin s c Celeus flavus Cream-coloured Woodpecker s s Progne subis Purple Martin s s Dryocopus lineatus Lineated Woodpecker s c fasciata White-banded Swallow s c Veniliornis affinis/cassini Stelgidopteryx ruficollis Red-stained/Golden-collared Woodpecker s r Southern Rough-winged Swallow s c Campephilus melanoleucos Troglodytidae Crimson-crested Woodpecker s r Thryothorus coraya Coraya Wren s c Campephilus rubricollis Red-necked Woodpecker s c Thryothorus leucotis Buff-breasted Wren s c Formicariidae Troglodytes aedon House Wren s r Sakesphorus canadensis Black-crested Antshrike s c Cyphorhinus aradus Musician Wren s, a r Thamnophilus punctatus Eastern Slaty Antshrike s r Sylviidae Thamnophilus amazonicus Amazonian Antshrike s c Polioptila plumbea Tropical Gnatcatcher s r Thamnomanes caesius/ardesiacus Turdidae Cinereous/Dusky-throated Antshrike s s Turdus fumigatus Cocoa Thrush s s Myrmotherula axillaris White-flanked Antwren s c Emberizidae Myrmotherula guttata Rufous-bellied Antwren s r Coereba flaveola Bananaquit s c Myrmotherula cherriei*** Cherrie's Antwren s s Tachyphonus cristatus/surinamus Microrhopias quixensis Dot-winged Antwren s c Flame-crested/Fulvous-crested Tanager s s Myrmoborus leucophrys White-browed Antbird s c Tachyphonus luctuosus White-shouldered Tanager s r Hypocnemis cantator Warbling Antbird s c Ramphocelus carbo Silver-beaked Tanager s c Hypocnemoides melanopogon Black-chinned Antbird s c Thraupis episcopus Blue-grey Tanager s c Percnostola rufifrons Black-headed Antbird s r Thraupis palmarum Palm Tanager s c Myrmeciza ferruginea Ferruginous-backed Antbird s s Euphonia sp. unidentified euphonia s c Pithys albifrons White-plumed Antbird s s Dacnis lineata Black-faced Dacnis s s Gymnopithys rufigula Rufous-throated Antbird s r Dacnis flaviventer Yellow-bellied Dacnis s s colma Rufous-capped Antthrush s s Dacnis cayana Blue Dacnis s r Myrmornis torquata Wing-banded Antbird s s Chlorophanes spiza s r Hylopezus macularius Spotted Antpitta s s Cyanerpes caeruleus Purple Honeycreeper s r Furnariidae Paroaria gularis Red-capped s c Synallaxis rutilans Ruddy Spinetail s s Saltator sp. unidentified saltator s c Automolus infuscatus/ochrolaemus Psarocolius decumanus Crested Oropendola s c Olive-backed/Buff-throated Foliage-gleaner s s Psarocolius viridis Green Oropendola s c Xenops minutus Plain Xenops s r Cacicus cela Yellow-rumped Cacique s c Dendrocolaptidae Cacicus haemorrhous Red-rumped Cacique s s Dendrocincla fuliginosa Plain-brown Woodcreeper s s Icterus chrysocephalus Moriche Oriole s s Glyphorynchus spirurus Wedge-billed Woodcreeper s c Scaphidura oryzivora Giant Cowbird s c Nasica longirostris Long-billed Woodcreeper s s Xiphorhynchus sp. unidentified woodcreeper s c Campylorhamphus trochilirostris/procurvoides Red-billed/Curve-billed Scythebill s s

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Three different baited camera-trap stations, all WWF-Denmark/Novo Nordisk, Explorers Club–US, situated in primary terra firme forest, attracted Copenhagen Zoo, the University of Copenhagen, single Greater Yellow-headed Vultures Cathartes Zoological Museum of Copenhagen, Frimodt-Heineke melambrotos. As the fish bait used was placed Fonden, Torben og Alice Frimodts Fond, H.R. og Grete under dead leaves, sense of smell was probably Siim Frederiksens Fond, Direktør Peder Mortensen og employed to detect these. At one, the yellow-headed Hustru Marry Mortensens Fond, Kjebi Fonden, NetTravel, Duracell, Photographica, and Fuji. For vulture was subsequently replaced by a King collaboration, advice and support our thanks to Dr Vulture Sarcoramphus papa, but the latter was João Alves de Oliveira, Dra Maria Nazareth Ferreira most likely attracted by the presence of the former da Silva and Prof. Jon Fjeldså. We extend our gratitude (see Discussion). to the reserve staff of Xixuaú, in particular João Soares Gomes da Silva, for invaluable help in the field. Erik Discussion Falk provided photos from Xixuaú. Mario Cohn-Haft The geographically proximate localities that have and Guy Kirwan commented on the submitted draft. been ornithologically explored yielded the following species totals: 445 species along the rio Jaú4, 394 References species north of Manaus5, 387 species in Tapajós 1. Anhuf, D. & Winkler, H. (1999) Geographical and National Park11, 440 species around La ecological settings of the Surumoni–Crane Esmeralda1, and 398 species at Junglaven and Project (Upper Orinoco, estado Amazonas, Camani Camps19. Based on those studies, we Venezuela). Anz. Math.-naturwissenschaftliche Klasse Abt. I, Österreichische Akad. predict that c.200 more species might be expected Wissenschaften 135: 3–23. to occur in Xixuaú Nature Reserve. These would 2. BirdLife International (2000) Threatened birds of mostly comprise hard-to-detect species (e.g. the world.Cambridge, UK: BirdLife puffbirds, , potoos and nightjars) and difficult- International & Barcelona: Lynx Edicions. to-identify species (e.g. and 3. Borges, S. H. & Carvalhães, A. (2000) Bird species flycatchers). For example, mist-netting and vocali- of black water inundation forests in the Jaú sation studies are required in Xixuaú. Moreover, National Park (Amazonas state, Brazil): their many canopy species went undetected because of contribution to regional species richness. Biodiv. the sampling methodology employed; the & Conserv.9:201–214. importance of vocalisations and using tape- 4. Borges, S. H., Cohn-Haft, M., Carvalhães, A. M. P., recorders in avifaunal surveys is now well known12. Henriques, L. M., Pacheco, J. F. & Whittaker, A. As in all studies of rainforest birds, canopy access (2001) Birds of the Jaú National Park, Brazilian would vastly improve observational opportuni- Amazon: species check-list, biogeography and conservation. Orn. Neotrop. 12: 109–140. ties10,18. Nonetheless, those species recorded in 5. Cohn-Haft, M., Whittaker, A. & Stouffer, P. C. Xixuaú Nature Reserve correspond well with those (1997) A new look at the “species-poor” central found in the two closest Brazilian sites, along the Amazon: the avifauna north of Manaus, Brazil. 4 5 rio Jaú and north of Manaus . Orn. Monogr. 48: 205–235. Orinoco Goose, the only bird species recorded by 6. Dunning, J. S. (1987) South American birds: a the survey considered to be of conservation concern photographic guide to identification. Newtown by BirdLife International2, inhabits forest-covered Square, PA: Harrowood Books. banks of tropical rivers and damp clearings. 7. Hilty, S. L. & Brown, W. L. (1986) A guide to the Because it is heavily hunted, the species is in birds of Colombia. Princeton, NJ: Princeton severe population decline and is now mostly found University Press. in remote and protected areas2. The discovery of 8. Houston, D. C. (1994) Family Cathartidae (New hidden bait by two Greater Yellow-headed Vultures, World vultures). In: del Hoyo, J., Elliott, A. & later visited by a King Vulture, adds to the existing Sargatal, J. (eds.) Handbook of the birds of the world,2.Barcelona: Lynx Edicions. evidence that Cathartes use their acute sense of 9. Meyer de Schauensee, R. & Phelps, W. H. (1978) A smell to locate food, and is consistent with the guide to the birds of Venezuela. Princeton, NJ: suggestion that other vultures, e.g. Black Vulture C. Princeton University Press. aura and King Vulture, have no functional sense of 10. Munn, C. A. & Loiselle, B. A. (1995) Canopy access 8 smell but rely on Cathartes species to locate food . techniques and their importance for the study of tropical forest canopy birds. In: Lowman, M. D. & Acknowledgements Nadkarni, N. M. (eds.) Forest canopies. San The project was a collaboration between the Zoological Diego, CA: Academic Press. Museum, University of Copenhagen, National 11. Oren, D. C. & Parker, T. A. (1997) Avifauna of the Institute for Amazonian Research, Manaus (INPA) and Tapajós National Park and vicinity, Amazonian Museu Nacional, Universidade Federal de Rio de Brazil. Orn. Monogr. 48: 493–525. Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro. Thanks are due to Associação 12. Parker, T. A. (1991) On the use of tape recorders in Amazônia for providing the opportunity to undertake avifaunal surveys. Auk 108: 443–444. the study in Xixuaú Nature Reserve. The project was made economically feasible by the generous support of

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13. Ridgely, R. S. & Tudor, G. (1989) The birds of South 19. Zimmer, K. J. & Hilty, S. L. (1997) Avifauna of a America,1.Austin: University of Texas Press. locality in the upper Orinoco drainage of 14. Ridgely, R. S. & Tudor, G. (1994) The birds of South Amazonas, Venezuela. Orn. Monogr. 48: 865–885. America,2.Austin: University of Texas Press. 15. Sick, H. (1993) Birds in Brazil: a natural history. Mogens Trolle and Bruno A. Walther Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press. Address for correspondence: Bruno A. Walther, 16. Stotz, D. F., Fitzpatrick, J. W., Parker, T. A. & Zoological Museum, University of Copenhagen, Moskovits, D. K. (1996) Neotropical birds: ecology Universitetsparken 15, DK 2100 Kobenhavn Ø, and conservation. Chicago: University of Chicago Denmark. E-mail: [email protected]. Press. 17. Trolle, M. (2003) Mammal survey in the rio Jauaperí region, rio Negro basin, the Amazon, Brazil. Mammalia 67: 75–83. 18. Walther, B. A. (2004) Why canopy access is essential to understand canopy birds: four examples from the Surumoni Crane Project. Orn. Neotrop. 15: 41–52.

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The Meleagris ocellata in Chiquibul Forest, Belize, 1994–1996 Tony King and Nicodemus Bol Cotinga 22 (2004): 86–90

El Guajalote Ocelado Meleagris ocellata es endémico de la Península de Yucatán, en Centroamérica. El Bosque Chiquibul, en el centro oeste de Belize, se encuentra en el límite sudeste de la distribu- ción de la especie. Aquí se presentan observaciones informales sobre la distribución y biología de M. ocellata en Chiquibul, efectuadas durante los dos primeros años después de la apertura de una estación de investigación, entre julio de 1994 y agosto de 1996. Se encontró una población nidificante restringida al norte y oeste de los ríos Chiquibul, Monkey Tail y Lower Raspaculo, y probablemente continua con la población de Guatemala en el Petén norte. No se pudo establecer de manera fidedigna el estatus de esta población. En Las Cuevas, el cortejo comenzó en marzo. Tras cortejar a la hembra, el macho la monta y pisa, mientras ésta se mantiene agachada contra el piso, con las alas extendidas. Los nidos fueron hallados en mayo, en el suelo y entre la cobertura densa. Ocasionalmente se observaron hembras con polluelos, hasta una docena, en junio y julio. Parece que la mortalidad de los pollos resultó alta. Con el inevitable incremento de la presencia humana en el bosque, en parte debido a la mejora de los accesos y en parte a la colonización desde Guatemala, es probable que aumente la presión de caza. Para una especie de semejante valor nutricional, esta presión puede rápidamente amenazar la supervivencia de una población en el límite de su distribu- ción natural, sin poder ser reforzada desde el sur o el este. Se recomienda una reevaluación de la distribución y estatus de M. ocellata en Chiquibul, y de las presiones que enfrenta la especie, para así implementar acciones que aseguren su supervivencia.

Ocellated Turkey Meleagris ocellata is a large, Pine Ridge and Vaca Forest Reserve to the north. striking gamebird endemic to the Yucatán The forest is classified as being in transition from Peninsula of Middle America17. Its conservation the ‘Subtropical moist’ to ‘Subtropical lower status is currently assessed as Near Threatened1,9 montane wet’ life zones of the Holdridge System8. and the species’ range extends from north Belize Two main broadleaf forest types are recognised, one west to east Chiapas, Mexico, and south to north largely deciduous, the other semi-evergreen19. Petén, Guatemala3,11. Distribution is patchy, with Annual rainfall is c.1,500 mm, with drought subsistence hunting being the major threat. The conditions (<100 mm per month) normal in species is thought to be most common in Belize2, February–April, and often in January and May10. where Wood et al.18 reported it in the northern hardwood forests and Mountain Pine Ridge, but Distribution within Chiquibul noted its absence from the southern hardwood Observations of M. ocellata within Chiquibul were forests and coastal savannas. Ocellated Turkey is patchy. The species was most commonly seen at the reported to have seriously declined in Belize during two major man-made clearings, at the Caracol the 1980s, possibly due to disease4, although the archaeological site and Las Cuevas Research cause has not been substantiated2. As elsewhere, Station. It was also regularly seen along the main subsistence hunting is now probably the major tracks, particularly in the vicinity of Caracol and pressure. Las Cuevas, but also in Mountain Pine Ridge, along Chiquibul Forest, in central-west Belize (Fig. 1), the Chiquibul road between Guacamallo bridge and is at the south-eastern limit of the species’ range. In Millionario, and between Millionario and Grano 1994 a research station was opened at Las Cuevas, d’Oro. Twice the species was observed as far south in the heart of Chiquibul, permitting long-term as Puente Natural (NB pers. obs., P. Rodewald & A. observations of the local flora and fauna to be made Dumin pers. comm.), but was not recorded during for the first time. Here we present informal obser- ornithological surveys of Smokey Branch5 or vations of the distribution and biology of M. ocellata Doyle’s Delight6, or during a traverse of the Maya in Chiquibul, made between July 1994 and August Mountains16. It appears that the Chiquibul River 1996. represents the southern limit of the population in Chiquibul, and indeed in Belize. Chiquibul Forest Although commonly observed in Las Cuevas Chiquibul is c.180,000 ha in extent20. It borders clearing, M. ocellata was not seen more than a Guatemala to the west, the main divide of the Maya couple of kilometres east of Las Cuevas, and was Mountains to the south and east, and Mountain not recorded during expeditions to the Upper

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Figure 1. Chiquibul forest, Belize, and the position of major localities mentioned in the text.

Gazetteer been cleared and human population density was much higher than in Belize. Location Coordinates Las Cuevas Research Station 16o44’N 88o59’W Status Although M. ocellata often appeared common while Caracol archaeological site 16o46’N 89o08’W o o driving through Chiquibul to Las Cuevas or to Millionario 16 45’N 89 01’W Caracol, it was difficult to ascertain the species’ San Pastor 16o43’N 88o59’W abundance in the area. Despite almost daily obser- New Maria 16o49’N 89o01’W vations in the Las Cuevas clearing, M. ocellata was Grano d’Oro 16o40’N 89o02’W not recorded during ornithological surveys of the adjacent forest sampling plot, in 1995 or 1996, or in Guacamallo bridge 16o52’N 89o02’W o o any of the other three forest plots, at San Pastor, Puente Natural 16 36’N 89 01’W New Maria and Grano d’Oro13,14. Therefore caution should be exercised when interpreting the apparent abundance of M. ocellata on the most frequented Raspaculo12 or Lower Raspaculo15 rivers. The routes of Chiquibul. Monkey Tail River and Lower Raspaculo may therefore represent the eastern limit of the Observations of M. ocellata at Las Cuevas Chiquibul population. M. ocellata frequented the Las Cuevas clearing The occurrence of M. ocellata at Caracol most days after the research station was suggests that the population probably occurred established, in July 1994. Birds usually roosted in further west in suitable habitat within Guatemala, trees at the edge of the clearing, occasionally in the although much of the forest west of the border had two large Cedrella odorata trees in the centre of the

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clearing, and glided down into the clearing in the clearing, before being engaged by the dominant early morning. They spent the day foraging in the male of the Cuevas group, the two jumping and grass and dirt, taking a varied diet of seeds, insects kicking backwards at each other with the tarsal and occasional frogs and rodents. On the rare spurs. The lone turkey thereafter flew into a small occasions they were observed seizing vertebrates, tree, but was followed by the aggressive male, the bird would spend considerable time tossing the which continued to peck at the intruder until the animal and pecking at it, presumably trying to kill latter eventually left the clearing. and dismember it. The group did not grow larger than 11, before The number of M. ocellata utilising Las Cuevas decreasing again in the courtship season. Again, as clearing gradually increased, albeit with seasonal in 1995, the turkeys became elusive whilst the fluctuations. In November 1994, the group chicks were growing, but the clearing was regularly consisted of five individuals. By January 1995 a used by a group of four young males, in June–July sixth had joined. Unfortunately, no details of group 1996, though by late July they had apparently composition were recorded, despite the relative moved elsewhere, perhaps prompted by the return ease of sexing and ageing individuals (tarsal spur of some of the original group. long and pointed in adult males, short and rounded Our informal observations are consistent with in yearling males, absent in females; greater those made during more detailed studies of the secondary coverts broad in adults, narrow in species at Tikal, in Guatemala7,17. In particular, yearlings17). Courtship commenced in late March, Gonzalez et al.7 reported similar seasonal changes with two males competing for the females. During in habitat use, and high juvenile mortality. Both this period the males had inflated necks, snoods Gonzalez et al.7 and Steadman et al.17 describe the and head-knobs, and strutted around the clearing, natural history of the species in more detail than their heads high and breast feathers puffed-out. attempted here, and we believe similar work could They would frequently stop to make a courting usefully and successfully be developed in ‘song’, consisting of several deep glugging noises, Chiquibul. Additionally, such studies should also be whilst extending the neck upwards, followed by a undertaken in neighbouring Mountain Pine Ridge rapid gobble and retraction of the neck back to the reserve, in habitat not generally associated with M. shoulders. A successful male would mount and ocellata. stamp the feet, while the female lay flat to the ground, wings spread. Following mating in April, Conclusions the turkeys became more solitary and very elusive, Chiquibul Forest appears to represent the extreme being observed less frequently in the clearing. Two south-eastern limit of the range of M. ocellata. nests were found, on the ground in dense Observations in 1994–1996 indicated that a viable undergrowth at the edge of the clearing. breeding population was present north and west of Females with small chicks, up to a dozen in the Chiquibul, Monkey Tail and Lower Raspaculo number, were occasionally observed around the rivers, and probably contiguous with the edges of the clearing in June–July, and as the Guatemalan population of the northern Petén. chicks grew they were sometimes encountered on However, the status of the population could not be the roads. Females were very protective of the reliably ascertained. Chick mortality appeared young, and a female became very aggressive high, and the species exhibited a worrying towards a Land Rover parked close to her brood. complacency towards humans. With the inevitable Chick mortality appeared high, as the number of increase in human presence in the forest, partially chicks observed with females steadily declined. due to improved road access and partially due to However, as the turkeys became regular visitors to mounting encroachment from Guatemala, hunting the clearing again, it was clear that at least some pressure will likewise increase. For a species of young had survived. In November 1995, a group of such high nutritional value, such pressure could nine was counted in the clearing, possibly quickly threaten the survival of a population on the consisting of the six original individuals and three limit of its natural range, with no possibility of young. reinforcement from the south or east. We Singles attempted to join the group in recommend a rapid reassessment of the distribu- December, but were consistently driven off. tion and status of M. ocellata within Chiquibul, and However, with persistence some were admitted, the of the pressures facing the species, with the aim of group growing to ten and then to 11 birds in implementing action to ensure its continued February 1996. Another repeatedly attempted to survival. join the group, but was never admitted. Once this turkey was chased to and fro across the width of the

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Acknowledgements to the Upper Raspaculo River, Belize, Central We thank the Forest Department of the Ministry of America, April–June 1993. London, UK: The Natural Resources, Belize, the Natural History Natural History Museum. Museum, London, and all the staff and volunteers at 13. Mallory, E. P & Brokaw, N. V. L. (eds) (1995) Las Cuevas Research Station in 1994–1996. Particular Ecological impacts of silvicultural trials in thanks to John Howell, Augustine Howe, Celia Bol and Chiquibul Forest Reserve and the Rio Bravo Natalie Rosado. Conservation and Management Area, Belize: pre- treatment surveys. Report to the Belize Forest References Department and Program for Belize. 1. BirdLife International (2000) Threatened birds of Massachusetts: Manomet Observatory for the world.Cambridge, UK: BirdLife Conservation Sciences. International & Barcelona: Lynx Edicions. 14. Mallory, E. P. & Brokaw, N. V. L. (1997) Impacts of 2. BirdLife International (2003) BirdLife’s online silvicultural trials on birds and tree regeneration World Bird Database: the site for bird conserva- in the Chiquibul Forest Reserve, Belize. tion. Version 2.0. Cambridge, UK: BirdLife Consultancy Report 20, Forest Planning and International. http://www.birdlife.org. Management Project. Belmopan: Ministry of 3. Blake, E. R. (1977) Manual of Neotropical birds,1. Natural Resources. Chicago: University of Chicago Press. 15. Matola, S., Holland, B. & Meadows, M. (1994) The 4. Collar, N. J. & Andrew, P. (1988) Birds to watch. Matola Expedition along the Lower Raspaculo The ICBP world checklist of threatened birds. River, 3–12 May 1993. In: Rogers, A. D. F., Sutton, Cambridge, UK: International Council for Bird D. A. & Stafford, P. J. (eds.) Report of the Joint Preservation (Tech. Publ. 8). Services scientific expedition to the Upper 5. Colston, P. R. (1995) A report of forest birds Raspaculo River, Belize, Central America, recorded at the Smokey Branch Exploration April–June 1993.London, UK: The Natural Concession, Maya Mountains, Belize, during May History Museum. 1995. Report for BHP Minerals Inc. London, UK: 16. Meerman, J. C. & Williams, G. (1995) Maya The Natural History Museum. Mountain Traverse Expedition, January 6. Conway, C. J. & Baird, S. J. (1995) Ornithological 16–February 4, 1995.Biological Report. report for the Doyle’s Delight expedition, Maya Belmopan: Belize Tropical Forest Studies (Publ. Mountains, Belize, 3–13 Dec 1993. In: Matola, S. 3). (ed.) Expedition to Doyle’s Delight, southern 17. Steadman, D. W., Stull, J. & Eaton, S. W. (1979) Maya Mountains, Belize.Occ. Ser. 5, Forest Natural history of the Ocellated Turkey. J. World Planning and Management Project. Belmopan: Pheasant Assoc.4:15–37. Ministry of Natural Resources. 18. Wood, D. S., Leberman, R. C. & Weyer, D. (1986) 7. Gonzalez, M. J., Quigley, H. B. & Taylor, C. I. (1998) Checklist of the birds of Belize. Pittsburgh, PA: Habitat use and reproductive ecology of the Carnegie Mus. Nat. Hist. (Special Publ. 12). Ocellated Turkey in Tikal National Park, 19. Wright, A. C. S., Romney, D. H., Arbuckle, R. H. & Guatemala. Wilson Bull. 110: 505–510. Vial, V. E. (1959) Land in British Honduras: 8. Hartshorn, G. S., Nicolait, L., Hartshorn, L., report of the British Honduras Land Use Survey Bevier, G., Brightman, R., Cal, J., Cawich, A., Team. London, UK: HMSO. Davidson, W., Dubois, R., Dyer, C., Gibson J., 20. Zisman, S. (1996) The directory of Belizean Hawley, W., Leonard, J., Nicolait, R., Weyer, D., Protected Areas and sites of nature conservation White, H. & Wright, C. (1984) Belize: country interest. Second edition. Belmopan: NARMAP. environmental profile: a field study. Belize City: Robert Nicolait & Associates Ltd. Tony King 9. IUCN (2002) IUCN Red List of threatened species. Projet Protection des Gorilles, BP 13977, Brazzaville, Gland: IUCN. Republic of Congo. E-mail: [email protected]. 10. Johnson, M. S. & Chaffey, D. R. (1973) An inventory of the Chiquibul Forest Reserve, Belize. Land Nicodemus Bol Resource Study 14. London, UK: Land Resources Las Cuevas Research Station, P.O. Box 410, Belmopan, Division, Overseas Development Agency. Belize. E-mail: [email protected]. 11. Land, H. C. (1970) Birds of Guatemala. Wynnewood, PA: Livingston Publishing Co. 12. Mallory, E. P. (1994) Birds of the Upper Raspaculo River Basin, Maya Mountains, Belize. In: Rogers, A. D. F., Sutton, D. A. & Stafford, P. J. (eds.) Report of the Joint Services scientific expedition

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Figure 4. Male Ocellated Turkey Meleagris ocellata completing a courtship ‘gobble’ display (note very inflated neck, snood and head-knob), Las Cuevas, April 1995 (Tony King) Figure 2. Male Ocellated Turkey Meleagris ocellata, displaying outside of the courtship season (note: no enlarged snood or head-knob), Las Cuevas, 1996 (Tony King)

Figure 3. Male Ocellated Turkey Meleagris ocellata with enlarged snood and head-knob (diminished after the breeding season), Las Cuevas, July 1996 (Tony King)

Figure 5. Male Ocellated Turkey Meleagris ocellata mounting a female, Las Cuevas, April 1995 (Tony King)

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Ocorrência do Formigueiro-do-nordeste Formicivora iheringi na Estação Ecológica de Acauã, Minas Gerais, Brasil Santos D’Angelo Neto & Marcelo Ferreira de Vasconcelos Cotinga 22 (2004): 92–93

We present records of the Narrow-billed Antwren Formicivora iheringi,a restricted-range and globally threatened species, from the 5,196-ha Acauã Ecological Station (17o07’S 42o46’W), north-east Minas Gerais, Brazil. These are the first records of this species from a protected area. We also recommend the protection of other forest fragments in private properties adjacent to the reserve, where the species was found to be common.

O Formigueiro-do-nordeste Formicivora iheringi pantes deste bando eram a Choca-bate-cabo-do- é um endemismo das matas interioranas sul Thamnophilus pelzelni,a Papa-taoca-do-sul semidecíduas e decíduas ocorrentes nas encostas Pyriglena leucoptera,a Papa-formigas-de-grota de serras dos estados da Bahia e de Minas Myrmeciza loricata,a Maria-cavaleira Gerais, Brasil10,11,13,14.A espécie foi considerada Myiarchus ferox,a Rendeira Manacus manacus, globalmente ameaçada1 e, em Minas Gerais, o Sabiá-barranco Turdus leucomelas e o Canário- também consta na lista estadual das espécies do-mato Basileuterus flaveolus. Este casal ameaçadas de extinção5,6. Os critérios utilizados comunicava-se através de uma série de pios para a inclusão de F. iheringi na lista de espécies semelhantes à vocalização do Patinho ameaçadas de extinção de Minas Gerais foram Platyrinchus mystaceus e por meio de um trinado baseados em sua área de distribuição restrita, rápido. Juntamente com P. leucoptera,o populações pequenas, destruição de hábitat e Formigueiro-do-nordeste foi uma das espécies inclusão na antiga lista oficial do IBAMA5,7. que mais vocalizava neste bando misto. Um Entretanto, a espécie não foi mais considerada outro casal foi observado no sub-bosque da mata ameaçada na mais recente revisão da lista das em 16 de novembro de 2002. Ambas as aves espécies da fauna ameaçada de extinção do forrageavam de maneira semelhante ao macho Brasil8, principalmente devido à capacidade de observado em janeiro de 2001. No dia 29 de persistir em fragmentos florestais pequenos e dezembro de 2003, mais dois indivíduos de F. alterados. O Formigueiro-do-nordeste foi recente- iheringi foram observados neste mesmo local, mente encontrado em novas localidades ao longo sendo suas vocalizações gravadas com um da bacia do rio Jequitinhonha, em Minas Gerais3, gravador Sony TCM-5000EV e microfone mas todos os registros até hoje reportados foram direcional Sennheiser ME66. Um macho adulto realizados fora de unidades de foi muito bem observado após ser atraído pelo conservação1,3,7,9,12,14. Assim, o objetivo desta nota playback. é relatar a ocorrência deste endemismo em uma Estes são os primeiros registros de F. iheringi reserva estadual de Minas Gerais. em uma unidade de conservação1,3,7,14. Embora a A Estação Ecológica de Acauã (17o07’S espécie tenha sido registrada na região da 42o46’W) ocupa uma área de 5.196 ha, estando Chapada Diamantina, na Bahia, ela não foi localizada na Chapada de São Domingos, nos encontrada dentro dos limites do Parque municípios de Turmalina e de Leme do Prado, em Nacional9. Um levantamento preliminar da Minas Gerais, Brasil2.A vegetação predominante avifauna da Estação Ecológica de Acauã, nesta reserva é a de floresta estacional semide- conduzido por M. C. Lima e L. H. C. Magri4, entre cidual. agosto e novembro de 1993, indicou a existência A primeira observação do Formigueiro-do- de 122 espécies de aves nesta reserva, mas nordeste na Estação Ecológica de Acauã ocorreu F. iheringi não consta neste estudo. em 7 de janeiro de 2001, quando um macho É importante salientar que a espécie também forrageava no sub-bosque e no estrato médio da foi registrada em fragmentos de mata mata. Este indivíduo inspecionava as cascas dos semidecídua secundária, adjacentes à Estação ramos e as folhas secas da serrapilheira, à Ecológica de Acauã, especialmente na procura de presas. Em uma ocasião, a ave propriedade de O. Sandinha (17o08’S 42o44’W), capturou um inseto que se encontrava sob as município de Leme do Prado, nas proximidades cascas. Ao se deslocar na ramaria, a ave da Fazenda Campo Limpo (17o12’S 42o51’W), movimentava lentamente sua cauda para cima e município de Turmalina, e nos arredores de para baixo. No dia 14 de junho de 2001, um casal Catutiba (16o49’S 42o38’W), município de José foi observado ao participar de um bando misto no Gonçalves de Minas. Em todas estas localidades, sub-bosque da mata. Outras espécies partici- F. iheringi foi uma espécie bastante encontradiça

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Cotinga 22 Formigueiro-do-nordeste na Minas Gerais, Brasil

e suas populações não podem ser consideradas da fauna de Minas Gerais. Belo Horizonte: pequenas, embora as matas já estejam bem Fundação Biodiversitas. descaracterizadas pelo corte seletivo de madeira 7. Melo-Júnior, T. A. (1998) Formicivora iheringi e pela fragmentação, evidenciando a resistência Hellmayr, 1909. In: Machado, A. B. M., da espécie a estes fatores e, talvez, que esta possa Fonseca, G. A. B., Machado, R. B., Aguiar, L. M. até certo ponto se beneficiar da perturbação S. & Lins, L. V. (eds.) Livro vermelho das espécies ameaçadas de extinção da fauna de causada. A inclusão destes fragmentos na Minas Gerais. Belo Horizonte: Fundação Estação Ecológica de Acauã ou a criação de novas Biodiversitas. reservas que abrangessem estas matas poderia 8. Ministério do Meio Ambiente (2003) Lista garantir uma maior proteção ao Formigueiro-do- nacional das espécies da fauna nordeste, especialmente porque a recente brasileira ameaçadas de extinção. Disponível implantação da usina hidrelétrica de Irapé, no em: Acesso em: 25 de maio de 2003. expressiva dos hábitats propícios para a espécie 9. Parrini, R., Raposo, M. A., Pacheco, J. F., nesta região. Carvalhães, A. M. P., Melo-Júnior, T. A., Fonseca, P. S. M. & Minns, J. C. (1999) Birds of Agradecimentos the Chapada Diamantina, Bahia, Brazil. Agradecemos à equipe da Coordenadoria de Cotinga 11: 86–95. Proteção à Vida Silvestre (CPVS) do Instituto 10. Ridgely, R. S. & Tudor, G. (1994) The birds of Estadual de Florestas (IEF-MG) e ao Sr José South America,2.Austin: University of Texas Roberto Mendes de Oliveira, diretor da Estação Press. Ecológica de Acauã, pelo apoio logístico durante 11. Sick, H. (1997) Ornitologia brasileira. Rio de nossos trabalhos de campo. O Sr Onofre Sandinha, Janeiro: Ed. Nova Fronteira. morador da região de Acauã, permitiu os nossos 12. Sick, H. & Teixeira, D. M. (1979) Notas sobre estudos em sua propriedade. Somos gratos ao Dr aves brasileiras raras ou ameaçadas de Fábio Olmos e a Guy M. Kirwan pela revisão crítica extinção. Publ. Av. Mus. Nac. 62: 1–39. do manuscrito. O Dr André Hirsch forneceu-nos as 13. Stattersfield, A. J., Crosby, M. J., Long, A. J. & coordenadas geográficas de algumas localidades Wege, D. C. (1998) Endemic Bird Areas of the estudadas. Os colegas André Nemésio, José world: priorities for biodiversity conservation. Francisco da Silva e Márcio Rodrigues acompan- Cambridge, UK: BirdLife International haram-nos em algumas viagens à região. MFV (Conservation Series 7). agradece especialmente ao Dr Marcos Rodrigues 14. Zimmer, K. J. & Isler, M. L. (2003) Family pelo acesso ao estudo da Coleção Ornitológica do Thamnophilidae (typical antbirds). In: del Departamento de Zoologia da Universidade Federal Hoyo, J., Elliott, A. & Christie, D. A. (eds.) de Minas Gerais. Handbook of the birds of the world,8. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions. Referências Santos D’Angelo Neto 1. BirdLife International (2000) Threatened birds Departamento de Biologia Geral, Universidade of the world.Cambridge, UK: BirdLife Estadual de Montes Claros, Av. Dr. Ruy Braga, s/no, International & Barcelona: Lynx Edicions. 39401-089, Montes Claros, Minas Gerais, Brasil. 2. Camargos, R. M. F. (2001) Unidades de conservação em Minas Gerais: levantamento e Marcelo Ferreira de Vasconcelos discussão. Publ. Av. Fund. Biodiversitas 2: Coleção Ornitológica, Departamento de Zoologia, 1–67. ICB, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, C.P. 3. D’Angelo-Neto, S., Vasconcelos, M. F. & Silveira, 486, 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, L. F. (2001) Range extensions, plumage Brasil. E-mail: [email protected]. variation, and conservation of the Narrow- billed Antwren (Formicivora iheringi), a Brazilian endemic. Intern. J. Orn.4:225–229. 4. Engevix Engenharia (1994) Levantamento da avifauna da Reserva Biológica Mata de Acauã—relatório final dos estudos. Rio de Janeiro: Engevix Engenharia. 5. Lins, L. V., Machado, A. B. M., Costa, C. M. R. & Herrmann, G. (1997) Roteiro metodológico para elaboração de listas de espécies ameaçadas de extinção (contendo a lista oficial da fauna ameaçada de extinção de Minas Gerais). Publ. Av. Fund. Biodiversitas 1: 1–50. 6. Machado, A. B. M., Fonseca, G. A. B., Machado, R. B., Aguiar, L. M. S. & Lins, L. V. (1998) Livro vermelho das espécies ameaçadas de extinção

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Cotinga 22

Magellanic Woodpecker Campephilus magellanicus

Magellanic Woodpecker Campephilus magellani- cus is the largest South American woodpecker, at 36–45 cm1–4. Its distribution comprises southern Chile, from Curico to Isla Grande, and adjacent areas of south-west Argentina1, where it is typical of austral humid forests with Nothofagus and Cupressus, frequently with bamboo stands1–4. Plumage is predominantly black with white on the wings, rump and flanks. Males have the entire head red, while females have deep red only at the base of the bill1,2,4.Young have plumage similar to females but are browner, less bright, with a short crest and, frequently, white bars below1. The species occurs in pairs or family groups, and is noisy when feeding, often flying from tree to tree1. It nests within tree holes, laying 2–3 white eggs in October–December1,4. This male was photographed with a female on the trail between El Chalten and Glaciar Cerro Torre (49o19’S 72o55’W), Los Glaciares National Park, Argentina. Though not threatened, C. magellanicus has a restricted geographic range in southern South America, comprising two Endemic Bird Areas (EBAs 061 and 062)5. As it depends on trees both to forage and nest1, deforestation of the Male Magellanic Woodpecker Campephilus magellanicus temperate forests of Chile and Argentina5 may (Frederico Ferreira de Vasconcelos) represent a threat to the Magellanic Woodpecker.

References Marcelo Ferreira de Vasconcelos 1. Fjeldså, J. & Krabbe, N. (1990) Birds of the high Coleção Ornitológica, Departamento de Zoologia, Andes. Copenhagen: Zool. Mus., Univ. of ICB, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, C.P. Copenhagen & Svendborg: Apollo Books. 486, 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil. E-mail: 2. Mödinger, B. A. & Holman, G. M. (1996) Guía de [email protected]. Current address: campo de las aves de Chile. Santiago de Chile: Departamento de Biologia Geral, Universidade Ed. Universitaria. Estadual de Montes Claros, Av. Rui Braga, s/no 3. Olrog, C. C. (1995) Las aves argentinas: una guía 39401-089, Montes Claros, MG, Brazil. de campo. Buenos Aires: El Ateneo. 4. de la Peña, M. R. (1979) Enciclopedia de las aves Frederico Ferreira de Vasconcelos argentinas,5.Santa Fe: Ed. Colmegna. Rua Paraíba 740, apto. 501, 30130-140, Belo 5. Stattersfield, A. J., Crosby, M. J., Long, A. J. & Horizonte, MG, Brazil. Wege, D. C. (1998) Endemic Bird Areas of the world: priorities for biodiversity conservation. Cambridge, UK: BirdLife International (Conservation Series 7).

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Cotinga 22

Common Potoo Nyctibius griseus

Common Potoo Nyctibius griseus is widespread in riverbank, a Common Potoo was encountered in southern Central America and throughout a typically upright position atop a spiny-covered northern and central South America, from eastern stump projecting out of the water. It soon became south to northern Argentina. apparent that the bird was perched with both its In Ecuador it is considered uncommon to fairly tail and tips of its longest primaries partially common in the lowlands and quite widespread in submerged in the water. We speculated that the east occurring in várzea and riparian forest as perhaps the bird perched thus in an attempt to well as the borders of terra firme forest3. remain cool during the heat of the day. Despite In late December 2001 we spent ten days at our close approach the bird did not perform a Yuturi Lodge, on the río Yuturi, a tributary of the defence display1 or leave the stump. We spent the río Napo in eastern Ecuador (00o33’S 76o05’W)3. next ten hours along the Manduro trail but on On 22 December we left the lodge at 05h30 for our return we found the potoo had left the stump, the Manduro trail where, on our approach to the presumably to hunt. To our surprise a single egg was visible where the bird had been perched. Water levels in this area vary considerably in response to rainfall and, on reflection, it seems probable that the water level rose after the nest site had been chosen, rendering the bird a choice between continuing to incubate whilst partially submerged or desert the nest. The availability of nest sites may be a limiting factor in potoo population density and good-quality sites are perhaps hard to find2. It is therefore interesting that the present site was the result of vegetation having been cut by a machete to maintain the

2 3

Figures 1–2. Common Potoo Nyctibius g. griseus incubating whilst partially submerged, río Yuturi, Ecuador, 22 December 2001 (David Cooper/Brenda Kay) Figure 3. Egg of Common Potoo Nyctibius g. griseus, río Yuturi, Ecuador, 22 December 2001 (David Cooper/Brenda Kay) 1

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Cotinga 22 Photospot

channel leading to the trail. Thus, the lack of a J. (eds.) Handbook of the birds of the world,5. more typical nest site nearby, at mid-height in a Barcelona: Lynx Edicions. tree2,may have resulted in this potoo’s choice. 3. Ridgely, R. S. & Greenfield, P. J. (2001) The birds of Ecuador,1.Christopher Helm, London. Acknowledgements We thank Nigel Cleere for bringing to our attention David Cooper and Brenda Kay that this observation was worth documenting, and Larch Cottage, Birchwood Grove Road, Burgess Hill, Jaime Grefa Grefa for his hard work and compan- Sussex, UK. E-mail: [email protected]. ionship in the field.

References 1. Cleere, N. & Nurney, D. (1998) Nightjars: a guide to nightjars and related nightbirds. Robertsbridge: Pica Press. 2. Cohn-Haft, M. (1999) Family Nyctibiidae (potoos). In: del Hoyo, J., Elliott, A. & Sargatal,

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Cotinga 22 Neotropical Notebook

Neotropical Notebook contains photographed eight pelicans (photo Belize from the same period7.It three sections. The first consists of online at http://www.cayaya- seems to be the first record for short papers documenting records. birding.com/pubs.htm) standing in interior Guatemala, and is Photos and descriptions are shallow water isolated from the remarkably far from the coast, as published where appropriate. The main lake. The species had Yaxhá is 125 km from the Atlantic. second section summarises records apparently not been seen Other inland records from Central published elsewhere, following the previously by local residents in America were nearer the coast format established in previous Yaxhá (G. Moretti pers. comm.) (Cerron Grande, El Salvador7,is issues of Cotinga. The third lists and is not mentioned in published 60 km from the Pacific, Crooked 2,10 unpublished and undocumented records from the Petén . Lake Tree, Belize8, 30 km from the records. Please indicate, with Yaxhá is part of the Maya Atlantic). On the Caribbean coast submissions, in which section you Biosphere Reserve and is of Guatemala, the species was not wish your records to appear. surrounded by vast tropical humid recorded during September 2000 to semi-deciduous broadleaf to July 20013, but one was seen SHORT NOTES woodland, but the south side is there by local fishermen in 1999 characterised by savanna. It is an (R. Pineda pers. comm.). These important feeding area for observations suggest an extension American White Pelican waterbirds. In addition to both to the winter range and an overall Pelecanus erythrorhynchos in pelican species mentioned, the trend for increasing numbers to interior Guatemala following waterbirds were present occur in Central America. American White Pelican Pelecanus on 25–26 April 2003: Neotropic Breeding data indicate that the erythrorhynchos breeds in western Cormorant Phalacrocorax overall population has been 4 North America to northern Mexico, brasilianus, Bare-throated Tiger- increasing since the 1970s , and winters along the Atlantic heron Tigrisoma mexicanum, perhaps forcing part of the coast from Florida to northern Boat-billed Heron Cochlearius population to colonise new areas Yucatán, the Pacific coast from cochlearius, Great Blue Heron in winter. Equally, habitat change California to Costa Rica and Ardea herodias, Great Egret A. could be a contributory factor. Panama, and the western Mexican alba, Snowy Egret Egretta thula, Fisheries might offer serious lowlands1,4,5,11,12. Increasing Little Blue Heron E. caerulea, competition to pelicans, preventing numbers have been reported in Tricoloured Heron E. tricolor, large concentrations of birds in Belize in the past 20 years8 and Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis, Green traditional wintering areas. For there are recent reports from the Heron Butorides virescens,Jabiru instance, in Monterrico, on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica6, Jabiru mycteria, Ruddy Crake Guatemalan Pacific coast, interior Belize and El Salvador7. Laterallus ruber, Semipalmated harvesting of small fish of c.15 cm American White Pelican is a Plover Charadrius semipalmatus, is common in shallow lagoons used vagrant to the Greater Antilles and Black-necked Stilt Himantopus by American White Pelicans (KE Bahamas13.Whilst Brown Pelican mexicanus, Northern Jacana pers. obs.). P. occidentalis is a regular visitor Jacana spinosa, Greater in small numbers to major Yellowlegs Tringa melanoleuca, Acknowledgements Guatemalan lakes (e.g. Atitlán, Solitary Sandpiper T. solitaria, We thank Gabriella Moretti from Lachuá, Petén Itzá, Yaxhá: KE Spotted Sandpiper Actitis El Sombrero Lodge, Yaxhá, for her pers. obs.), there are no previous macularius, Least Sandpiper kind support. Oliver Komar made reports of American White Pelican Calidris minutilla,Pectoral valuable comments on the from interior Guatemala2,5,9,10. Sandpiper C. melanotos, Stilt manuscript. Lee Jones kindly On 25 April 2003 we observed Sandpiper C. himantopus and provided references. We appreciate through a telescope at least five Laughing Gull Larus atricilla.In the improvements made by Dan American White Pelicans at Lake addition, Killdeer Charadrius Brooks through the Association of Yaxhá, c.3 km from the Yaxhá vociferus and Pied-billed Grebe Field Ornithologists’ programme of archaeological site, Petén (17o03’N Podilymbus podiceps were editorial assistance. 89o26’W). A precise count was observed on 29 December 1997 (KE pers. obs.). Nomenclature References impossible because of the distance 1 of the birds. Next day, we visited follows AOU . 1. American Ornithologists’ the area, near the archaeological Our observation of American Union (1998) Checklist of site of Topoxté, where the birds White Pelican is consistent with North American Birds. had been the previous day and inland records in El Salvador and Seventh edn. Washington

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DC: American Ornithologists’ Knut Eisermann and Claudia total viewing time was 8–10 Union. Avendaño minutes. 2. Beavers, R. A. (1992) The birds P.O. Box 098, Periférico, Guatemala We believe that they were a of Tikal: an annotated Ciudad, Guatemala. E-mail: pair of Plain-breasted Ground- checklist for Tikal National knut.eisermann@proeval- doves. We eliminated male and Park and Petén, Guatemala. raxmu.org. female Common Ground-doves by College Station, TX: A. & M. virtue of the lack of scaling or University Press. First documented record of strong iridescence on either bird, 3. Eisermann, K. (2001) Plain-breasted Ground-dove the all-dark bills and limited Caracterización de la Columbina minuta in Honduras spotting on the wings. Ruddy avifauna del Área de On 3 August 2003 whilst birding Ground-dove was carefully Protección Especial Punta de in the Valle de Olancho, dpto. eliminated, first, by their paler Manabique, Izabal, Olancho, Honduras, we observed a appearance. Neither had any Guatemala. Unpubl. report. pair of apparent Plain-breasted brown/rufous tones (except in the Guatemala City: FUNDARY. Ground-doves Columbina minuta, wings). The male was striking in 4. Evans, R. M. & Knopf, F. L. c.8.3 km east of Juticalpa and just having a distinct blue-grey head (1993) American White and mantle. In flight, we observed Pelican (Pelecanus south (along the Carretera a La Empalizada) of the main east–west rufous in the wings, but less than erythrorhynchos). In: Poole, on other species. We were unable A. & Gill, F. (eds.) The birds road in the region. The location comprised semi-arid savanna with to gain a direct size comparison of North America,No.57. with any of the other species Philadelphia: Acad. Nat. Sci. much of the land being used for present. Philadelphia & Washington various agricultural purposes. We returned next afternoon DC: American Ornithologists’ Hedgerows, patchy forest and and again found a pair of Plain- Union. shallow depressions that contain breasted Ground-doves, which we 5. Howell, S. N. G. & Webb, S. water in the wet season dot the photographed (the images will be (1995) A guide to the birds of area. On one less-travelled road, deposited at VIREO, Philadelphia, Mexico and northern Central just off the Empalizada road, America. Oxford: Oxford Columbina doves were visiting USA). We noted the same field University Press. rain-filled potholes. We identified marks as the previous day, but, in 6. Jones, H. L. (2003) Central several species including Inca addition, were able to clearly America. North Amer. Birds Dove Columbina inca, Common observe a purplish coloration to 57: 270. Ground-dove C. passerina and the wing markings and we were 7. Jones, H. L. (2003) Central Ruddy Ground-dove C. talpacoti. able to compare them directly to a America. North Amer. Birds However, several individuals were nearby Common Ground-dove, 57: 554. different from these species. which was noticeably larger. We 8. Jones, H. L. & Gardner, D. Two doves we scrutinised were observed five Plain-breasted (2004) Birds of Belize. clearly Columbina, being generally Ground-doves (two pairs and a Austin: University of Texas grey with small heads, short tails lone bird) during three days in the Press. and spotted wings. The presumed area, but the extensive habitat 9. Land, H. C. (1970) Birds of male (which had more colourful could easily support more. The Guatemala.Wynnewood: plumage) was blue-grey on the species was previously unrecorded 2,3 Livingston Publishing Co. head, nape and throat, paler on in Honduras , although suspected 1 10. Smithe, F. B. (1966) The birds the back, wings and underparts. to occur . Recent unsubstantiated of Tikal.New York: Natural The breast was greyish pink, reports indicate this species may History Press. which seemed vibrant at times in also occur in western Honduras (D. 11. Ridgely, R. S. & Gwynne, J. A. the light of the setting sun. We did Anderson & M. Bonta pers. (1989) A guide to the birds of not observe any scaling or strong comm.). We believe Plain-breasted Panama with Costa Rica, iridescence on the bird. The Ground-dove has gone unrecorded Nicaragua, and Honduras. maxilla was all black with a paler in Honduras due to lack of Princeton, NJ: Princeton grey base to the lower mandible. observer coverage in appropriate University Press. Spotting on the wing feathers was habitat. 12. Stiles, F. G. & Skutch, A. F. confined to that part closest to the (1989) A guide to the birds of mantle, but we were unable to Acknowledgements Costa Rica. Ithaca, NY: discern its coloration. The We thank Robert Fleet, David Cornell University Press. presumed female was similar but Anderson and Claudia De La Cruz 13. Stotz, D. F., Fitzpatrick, J. W., paler and overall duller with less for comments. Oliver Komar Parker, T. A. & Moskovits, D. blue-grey coloration on the head refereed the note. In addition, we K. (1996) Neotropical birds: and neck. We approached the birds are very grateful to Mark Bonta ecology and conservation. more closely and eventually they for his help in Honduras and to Chicago: University of flew into an adjacent pasture, our local guides in Olancho, Oscar Chicago Press. when we observed a rufous wing Pinot and Jose Mendoza. panel. They did not call and the

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References culmen and the legs were orange. during post-breeding dispersal1. 1. Bonta, M. & Anderson, D. The throat and face below the eye On 18 February 2003, two were (2002) Birding Honduras: a were unfeathered and coloured carefully observed along the river checklist and guide. red. All of these characteristics near Krautara, in lowland humid 2,5 Tegucigalpa: ECOARTE S. match Red-throated Caracara . tropical forest of Patuca National R.I. During the first few minutes it Park, dpto. Gracias A Dios (H. 2. Howell, S. N. G. & Webb, S. W. flew to different perches atop the Portillo & D. Graham pers. comm.). (1995) A guide to the birds of pine trees, during which the bird Our sighting, along with Mexico and northern Central gave a different Kaaaa call, very nearly all previous Honduran America.Oxford: Oxford reminiscent of a Scarlet Macaw reports4,was from northern University Press. Ara macao. After a second Olancho where the dominant 3. Monroe, B. L. (1968) A distrib- individual responded from the habitats are savanna and pine–oak utional survey of the birds of valley below, the first bird flew to a forests1. The rediscovery of this Honduras. Orn. Monogr. 7. branch halfway up another pine species in northern Olancho Lawrence, KA: American and commenced feeding on a wasp provides an opportunity for Ornithologists’ Union. nest. Two minutes later a second researchers to study, in more bird joined it. For 15 minutes the detail, its current distribution and Jesse F. Fagan first bird fed while the other habitat associations. 5001 Colonial Drive, Nacogdoches, waited, occasionally giving a TX 75965, USA. E-mail: whinnying Kee ahh Kee ahh.After Acknowledgements [email protected]. the first individual flew away, the We thank Mark Bonta, David second started feeding on the wasp Anderson and Oliver Komar for Tom Jenner nest before it, too, departed. valuable comments on an earlier Academia Britanica Cuscatleca, Subsequently, the first individual draft of this manuscript. Also, we Apartado Postal 121, Santa Tecla, was relocated c.100 m away. In thank Hector Portillo and Douglas El Salvador. E-mail: total they were observed from Graham for sharing details of their [email protected]. 11h45 until 13h00. Both sighting. individuals were photographed and the photograph published here References Notes on the Red-throated (Fig. 1) is the first documentary 1. Bonta, M. A. (2003) Seven Caracara Ibycter americanus in evidence since 1955 that Red- names for the bellbird: Honduras throated Caracara is extant in conservation geography in Historically, the Red-throated Honduras4. Honduras. College Station, Caracara Ibycter americanus Our sighting was 1 km south TX: A. & M. Press. ranged from southern Mexico to of the village Filo Chiquito, near 2. Ferguson-Lees, J. & Christie, Bolivia and western Brazil5. Cerro Filo Chiquito, a mountain in D. A. (2001) Raptors of the Preferred habitat is reportedly the municipality of Esquipulas del world. Boston: Houghton humid broadleaf forests, edge and Norte. The precise location of the Mifflin. plantations in northern Middle sighting was 15o13’N 86o30’W, c.45 3. Howell, S. N. G. & Webb, S. America3, and mature, high closed- km east of La Unión, Olancho, (1995) A guide to the birds of canopy broadleaf forests in French along route 41. The birds were in a Mexico and northern Central Guiana6. Evidently, the species has pine–oak–sweetgum forest at America.Oxford: Oxford dramatically declined over much of c.1,100 m. Residents of Filo University Press. its range in Central and South Chiquito claimed familiarity with 4. Monroe, B. L. (1968) A distrib- America west of the Andes, for the species, which they referred to utional survey of the birds of unknown reasons2. The last as the Ca-Ca Cacao, because of its Honduras. Orn. Monogr. 7. confirmed record in Honduras was distinctive call. Washington DC: American in 19554. Howell & Webb’s range Several other recent observa- Ornithologists’ Union. map implies that the species is tions of Red-throated Caracara 5. Stiles, F. G. & Skutch, A. F. probably extirpated in northern have been made in Honduras. In (1989) A guide to the birds of Middle America3. 2000, Bonta reported hearing the Costa Rica. Ithaca, NY: On 23 October 2002 we bird in hills north of the Valle de Cornell University Press. observed a large black bird making Agalta in north-east Olancho and 6. Thiollay, J.-M. (1992) Foraging, a loud Ka-Ka-Ka-Kaaaa call while has collected numerous anecdotal home range use and social perched atop a pine tree beside reports from local people across behaviour of a group-living route 41 in dpto. Olancho, the region. Between 1994 and rainforest raptor, the Red- throated Caracara Daptrius Honduras. The bird’s head, entire 2002, F. Urbina (pers. comm.), an americanus. Ibis 133: back, tail and wings (above and administrator of the Sierra de 382–393. below) were black, and the belly Agalta National Park, had seen and undertail-coverts white. The and heard Red-throated Caracaras bill was pale yellow with a sky- three times in the Valle de Agalta, blue cere half the length of the where it is thought to be present

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Adam J. Narish Cory’s Shearwater Calonectris Nomonyx 3009 Easter Heights, La Crosse, diomedea dominicus Wisconsin 54601, USA. E-mail: One flushed by the Trinidad– Adult male on Pitch Lake on 26 [email protected]. Tobago ferry, several km south of May 1995 (FEH et al.) and a pair Scarborough on 10 May 1998 (FEH at Buccoo marsh, Tobago, on 25–29 Tom Jenner et al.) On 17 May 1998, one flying June 1998 (FEH et al.). Academia Britanica Cuscatleca, south-east off Galera Point (FEH Apartado Postal 121, Santa Tecla, et al.). A tideline corpse found on 4 Hook-billed Kite Chondrohierax El Salvador. E-mail: April 2002 in Blue Waters Bay, uncinatus [email protected]. Tobago (RES). Adult male over the Blanchisseuse road on 26 March 2002 (CS et al.) Manx Shearwater Puffinus and another male behind Blue puffinus Waters Inn, Tobago, on 1 April Up to five present close inshore off 2002 (CS et al.). Galera Point on 5 October–7 November 2002 (MK). Snail Kite Rostrhamus sociabilis Immature at Caroni rice fields on Purple Heron Ardea purpurea 19 May 1998 (FEH). A female, also Juvenile at Caroni rice fields on 24 at Caroni rice fields, first recorded September–10 October 2002 (MK) on 4 July 2000 (Cotinga 19: 76) was the first record for Trinidad & remained throughout 2002 and Tobago and the second for South was joined by a subadult male on America. Photographs are posted 4–22 November 2002 (MK). at http://www.geocities.com/ secaribbirds/ttpurpleheron.html. Crane Hawk Geranospiza caerulescens Cocoi Heron Ardea cocoi One at Waller Field on 20 January One at Buccoo marsh, Tobago, on 2001 (BS et al.) was the first 25–29 June 1998 (FEH et al.). accepted record for Trinidad & Tobago. Probably the same Rufescent Tiger-heron individual at Aripo Agricultural Figure 1. Red-throated Caracara Ibycter Tigrisoma lineatum Station on 12 March 2001 (CS et americanus, Filo Chiquito, Esquipulas del An adult close to the eastern edge al.). Two adults close to the coast Norte, Olancho, Honduras, 23 October of Nariva swamp on 3 February road at Nariva on 27 March 2002 2002 (Adam Narish) 2002 (GG). (CS et al.).

White Ibis Eudocimus albus Swainson’s Hawk Buteo Verification of rare bird An adult amongst a roosting flock swainsoni records from Trinidad & of Scarlet Ibis E. ruber at Caroni Light morph over Grande Rivière Tobago swamp on 15 August 1985 (GW). on 16 May 1998. Probably the A fourth batch of records, same individual over Matelot, 10 submitted during 2002, has been Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus km further west, the following day assessed by the Trinidad & Tobago Juvenile at Caroni rice fields on 10 (FEH et al.). Rare Birds Committee. In all 70 October 2002 (MK). records were adjudged, represent- Great Black-hawk Buteogallus ing 48 species. As a result, three Anas urubitinga species have been added to the americana Two adults displaying on 16–17 official list of birds of Trinidad & Immature male on Bon Accord March 2002 from the Saut d’Eau Tobago. Of those assessed, in only sewage lagoons, Tobago, on 10–11 lookout (GG). five cases (7%) did the Committee January 2002 (MK). feel that the identification was Black Hawk-eagle Spizaetus inconclusive. All locations Ring-necked Duck Aythya tyrannus mentioned are in Trinidad, unless collaris Two adults at Santa Flora on 18 designated Tobago. The records Adult male, commuting between June 2002 (JW). below follow the nomenclature of Bon Accord and Lowlands, Tobago, the American Ornithologists’ on 26 November 2002–5 February Crested Caracara Caracara Union (1998) and the species order 2003 at least (Rf, AJ, MK). plancus of the Checklist of the birds of Subadult close to the coast road at Trinidad and Tobago (Neotropical Nariva on 27 March 2002 (CS et Bird Club 2000). melanotos al.). Adult male at Caroni rice fields on 14–15 June 2002 (MK).

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Aplomado Falcon Falco femoralis Yellow-billed Cuckoo Coccyzus Scarlet Tanager Piranga olivacea Immature regularly over Caroni americanus Adult males at Morne Catherine rice fields on 31 August–10 On Tobago, singles at Blue Waters on 27 April 1998 (FEH et al.) and October 2002 (MK). A second bird Inn on 19 October 2002 (MW) and Asa Wright Nature Centre on 14 at the same locality on 30 October Bon Accord sewage lagoons on 21 April 2002 (SC). The vast majority 2002 (MK). December 2002 (MK). The latter is of records from Trinidad are from one of the very few presumed the period 10–30 April. Yellow-breasted Crake Porzana overwintering records for the flaviventer species in the islands. Bobolink Dolichonyx oryzivorus One calling from a shallow One over Chacachacare on 4 freshwater marsh at Louis d’Or, Short-eared Owl Asio flammeus October 1998 (FEH et al.). Up to Tobago, on 22 December 2002 Correction to Cotinga 19: 77: two 50 at Caroni rice fields on 10–30 (MK), was subsequently were present at Caroni rice fields October 2002 (MK) and, on Tobago, photographed on 22 February 2003 on 16 September 2001. one at Blue Waters Inn on 19 (NG et al.). The first record for October 2002 (MW). Tobago, photographs are posted at Scaled Antpitta Grallaria guati- http://www.geocities.com/secarib- malensis In addition to the above, birds/ttyellow-breastedcrake.html. One calling from a densely acceptable records were received forested slope close to Paria for a further 12 sightings of the Paint-billed Crake Neocrex junction, Blanchisseuse Road, on 5 following species whose status has erythrops September 2002 (Rf). already been established: Masked One found exhausted in the Booby Sula dactylatra, Little Egret Maraval Valley during March 1996 Spotted Tody-flycatcher Egretta garzetta, White-faced was taken into care at the Emperor Todirostrum maculatum Whistling-duck Dendrocygna Zoo, Port of Spain (per GG). Nest close to Fullerton swamp on viduata, Bank Swallow Riparia 19 April 1998 (FEH et al.). Only riparia and Moriche Oriole Icterus American Coot Fulica americana the second documented nesting chrysocephalus. One record Single adults at Buccoo marsh, record for Trinidad. received, a Anas Tobago on 6 February 2002 (MK) platyrhynchos,was considered to and 10 September 2002 (Rf). Caribbean Martin Progne be of escaped or feral origin. dominicensis Records considered inconclu- Caribbean Coot Fulica caribaea Adult male amongst Grey-breasted sive were of Wood Stork Mycteria One at Buccoo marsh, Tobago, on 2 Martins Progne chalybea at Galera americana, Herring Gull Larus February 2002 (RES et al.). Point on 20 February 2002 (MK), argentatus and Grey Seedeater, providing further evidence of this Sporophila intermedia from Curlew Sandpiper Calidris species’ winter status on Trinidad. Trinidad, and Grey Hawk Asturina ferruginea nitida and Short tailed Hawk Adult, moulting into breeding Buteo brachyurus from Tobago. plumage, at Caroni rice fields on pyrrhonota Records and contributions 1–5 May 2002 (MK). The first Two at Caroni rice fields on 22–29 were received from the following record for Trinidad & Tobago, but April 1998 (FEH et al.) and an (denoted by their initials in the considered long overdue given adult in a mixed hirundine flock text): Steve Cooper, Richard recent records on both Barbados over Trincity ponds on 20 April ffrench, Newton George, Geoffrey and Grenada. 2002 (MK et al.). Gomes, Floyd E. Hayes, Alvaro Jaramillo, Martyn Kenefick, Bob Buff breasted Sandpiper Chestnut-sided Warbler Scott, Chris Sharpe, Roopnarine Tryngites subruficollis Dendroica pensylvanica Singh, Graham White, Mark Five at Valsayn rice fields on 3 Adult, moulting into breeding Wilson and Jerry Wittet. May 1998 (FEH et al.). Up to three plumage, close to the river at The Committee comprises the at Caroni rice fields on 17–18 Montevideo, Grande Rivière on 28 following members: Martyn September 2002 (MK). February 2002 (MK et al.). Kenefick (Secretary), Richard Ruff Philomachus pugnax Bay-breasted Warbler Dendroica ffrench, Geoffrey Gomes, Floyd Immature female at Caroni rice castanea Hayes, Bill Murphy, Courtenay fields on 29 December 2002–25 Male at Waller Field on 20 Rooks and Graham White. Records January 2003 (MK). January 2002 (RES et al.). should be sent to Martyn Kenefick at the address below. Copies of the Pomarine Jaeger Stercorarius Summer Tanager Piranga rubra species review list and the rare pomarinus First-summer male at Las Lapas bird report form are available at Two adults flying north past on 28 January and 13 February http://www.geocities.com/ttrbc. Galera Point on 30 April 2002 2002 (MK et al.). (MK).

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Martyn Kenefick Subsequently, they started to tipped Swift are known from the 36 Newalloville Ave, San Juan, forage lower down and I was able tepuis in Venezuela4, Guyana4 and Trinidad. E-mail: to view them, in favourable light, Roraima, Brazil4 (also Brian [email protected]. against a forest background and O’Shea pers. comm.), but there against the falls. They were appear to be no previous records of uniform smoky brown, without any either in Suriname3. Sight records of bird species suggestion of a pale throat or During the periods 13–16 June new to Suriname rump, excluding Ashy-tailed Swift and 24–26 June 2003, on the On 19 March 2003 I was counting Chaetura meridionalis.I observed northern side of the Tafelberg, shorebirds at Weg naar Zee, near the birds for several hours at between and near the Augustus Paramaribo, when I observed an distances of 20 m to a few hundred Falls and the Geyskes Falls, I unusual gull, larger than a metres through 10 x 42 binoculars. observed an antwren species, 4 Laughing Gull Larus atricilla, After consulting Hilty ,I reached which generally appeared similar with slate-grey wings and mantle, the conclusion that they were to Todd’s Antwren Herpsilochmus and pure white head and White-chinned Swifts Cypseloides stictocephalus. It had rufous underparts, a yellow bill marked cryptus, given that they were not primaries and secondaries, and it by a red gonys near the tip, and blackish like Black Swift C. niger, called very differently from Todd’s. yellow legs. Given my extensive which I know well from Cuba. They foraged in the canopy of 8 m- experience in The Netherlands, I Spot-fronted Swift C. cherriei is tall forest at an altitude of 550 m. 4 immediately identified it as a very rare in the Guianan Shield , It became clear that they were Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus and thus might also be safely Rufous-winged Antwren H. fuscus graellsii,a species not excluded. White-chinned Swift is rufimarginatus, and the species is previously mentioned for the known from a tepui in neighbour- apparently common in this area. 1 country3,4.O.Tostain (pers. comm. ing Guyana . As it is known to H. rufimarginatus is included on 4 and in press) knows of c.15 obser- breed behind waterfalls ,it an old internal list of birds vations of this species during the perhaps breeds at Augustus Falls, recorded in Suriname, kept by last ten years in , which possibility I intend to check STINASU (The Foundation for which neighbours Suriname to the in the future. Nature Conservation in east. Hilty4 mentioned several On 20 June 2003, in the Suriname), but it is unclear on observations in Venezuela and southern part of the Tafelberg, at what basis, which also applies to Guyana, whilst ffrench & 850 m, I observed three swift its inclusion as a ‘breeding species, 5 Kenefick2 consider it to have species together: Chapman’s, sight record only’ in Parker et al. . become a regular visitor to White-collared and at least four It is not mentioned for Suriname 3 4 Trinidad. individuals of an unknown swift, in Haverschmidt & Mees ,Hilty 6 In June 2003 I executed a which appeared slightly larger or Ridgely & Tudor . qualitative monitoring of the than Chapman’s Swift. It had Tafelberg (Table Mountain), the brown upperparts with paler Acknowledgements only tepui in Suriname, situated in fringes to the feathers, and I thank Charles Collins, Sjoerd the Central Suriname Nature probably a forked tail, although I Mayer and Robin Restall for their Reserve. Among interesting was unsure of this. The tail was help in identifying the swifts. sightings, I observed five species of tipped white, but I was unable to swifts, two not previously reported obtain clear views of the References in the country, and an antwren underparts, although they 1. Barnett, A., Shapley, R., that had also not been noticed appeared largely brown. Once I Benjamin, P., Henry, E. & prior to this. observed a white throat, but the McGarrell, M. (2002) Birds of The three known swifts, which impression was very brief and I the Potaro Plateau, with were identified with few difficul- was unable to be certain of this eight new species for ties, were White-collared feature. Most remarkable was a Guyana. Cotinga 18: 19–36. Streptoprocne zonaris,Band- pure white spot covering the lower 2. ffrench, R. & Kenefick, M. rumped Chaetura spinicauda and belly. The birds almost constantly (2003) Verification of rare Chapman’s Swifts C. chapmani. gave a long, high-pitched, bird records from Trinidad On the morning of 25 June, I grasshopper-like call. and Tobago. Cotinga 19: observed a group of more than 500 Following correspondence with 75–79. 3. Haverschmidt, F. & Mees, G. F. swifts foraging near the Augustus Charles Collins, Sjoerd Mayer and (1994) The birds of Falls. When first located the birds Robin Restall, I reached the Suriname.Paramaribo: were very high and no coloration conclusion that the birds were VACO NV. could be discerned, but the tail probably White-tipped Swift 4. Hilty, S. L. (2003) Birds of could be seen to lack a fork and Aeronautes montivagus, and after I Venezuela. Princeton, NJ: the overall size was larger than heard a sound recording of that species, provided by Sjoerd Mayer, Princeton University Press. that of Band-rumped and 5. Parker, T. A., Stotz, D. F. & Chapman’s Swifts, which I had I was able to confirm this. Both White-chinned Swift and White- Fitzpatrick, J. W. (1996) observed the previous evening. Ecological and distributional

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databases. In: Stotz, D., cabanisi subspecies, which ranges Karina Paredes Fitzpatrick, J. W., Parker, T. from Argentina, along the Andean Calderon. Urb. Santa Marianita A. & Moskovits, D. (eds.) slope in Tucumán, to eastern Etapa 3 Casa 94, Quito, Ecuador. Neotropical birds: ecology Cusco, Peru, and the iris coloration E-mail: [email protected]. and conservation. Chicago: was reddish brown, not bright red University of Chicago Press. as in cabanisi. The specimen has 6. Ridgely, R. S. & Tudor, G. been deposited at the Museo An aggregation of Purple (1994) The birds of South Nacional de Ciencias Naturales, Gallinules Porphyrula martinica America,2.Oxford: Oxford Quito (catalogue no. 1228). on Santa Cruz, Galápagos University Press. On 7–9 September 2003 AA Purple Gallinule Porphyrula and AS observed a female near martinica is considered a vagrant Otte Ottema where the male was collected. It to the Galápagos. The first record Bird Department, Stinasu was overall dark olive-brown with was of an adult found dead at sea Foundation for Nature darker-streaked underparts and off the north coast of Santa Cruz Conservation in Suriname, 2 the wings were dusky with two in 1964 . Subsequently, one was Cornelis Jongbauwstraat 14, P.O. buff wingbars. caught and photographed on Box 12252, Paramaribo, Suriname. 4 Española in 1972 , one was E-mail: [email protected]. Acknowledgements observed over a month at El Junco The Cordillera del Condor survey Lake, San Cristóbal, in 19843, with is a three-year project of CECIA a report from La Toma, San Andean Tyrant Knipolegus (Corporación Ornitológica del Cristóbal1, and a dead adult found signatus signatus: new to the Ecuador), sponsored by The on Plaza Sur in 1979/80 (Heidi Ecuadorian avifauna MacArthur Foundation. The Snell pers. comm.). Andean Tyrant Knipolegus Ecuadorian army assisted with On 17 May 2003 we visited signatus signatus is known only logistics in the region. part of the Tortoise Reserve on from Peru, where it occurs in Santa Cruz known as El Chato, montane forest from north References which holds a large pond Cajamarca, in the Cordillera del 1. Clements, J. F & Shany, N. surrounded by trees, though much Condor, to south Junín, in central (2001) A field guide to the of the surface is covered by Peru, at elevations of birds of Peru.Temecula, CA: vegetation. At c.10h30, we 1–4 1,900–3,050 m . Ibis Publishing. observed several gallinules among On 7 December 2001 LN, Chris 2. Fjeldså, J. & Krabbe, N. (1990) some dead tree trunks in the water Canaday and Giovanni Birds of the high Andes. near the edge of the pond. We Rivadeneira found a male Andean Copenhagen: Zool. Mus., clearly identified three adults as Tyrant perched at 8–10 m in Univ. of Copenhagen & Purple Gallinules. The pale blue Svendborg: Apollo Books. stunted forest in the Cordillera del frontal shield was very prominent, 3. Ridgely, R. S & Greenfield, P. Condor, near the Destacamento de together with the red bill and (2001) The birds of Ecuador. Condor Mirador. It was carefully yellow tip. The head, neck and Ithaca, NY: Cornell studied as the species was known breast were dark blue, and the University Press. to have not previously been remaining upperparts a paler blue- 4. Ridgely, R. S & Tudor, G. recorded in Ecuador. The green. There was no white on the (1994) The birds of South observation was made during an flanks. The legs and feet were exploratory visit to plan future America,2.Austin: University of Texas Press. bright yellow, clearly visible as the field work in this mountain range. birds walked on the trunks; one It proved impossible to document Lelis Navarrete was preening atop a vertical the sighting, but the bird had a stump. Two adult-sized immatures very upright posture and was P.O. Box 17171212, Quito, Ecuador. E-mail: [email protected]. were swimming in the water, but uniformly dull black, whilst the could not be identified to species bill was blue-grey with a black tip. Aldo Sornoza with certainty. Common Moorhens Subsequently, on 6 September Gallinula chloropus were also 2003, LN located a male Andean Conocoto-Ecuador, Pasaje Alvaro Perez J3411, Quito, Ecuador. present on the pond, both adults Tyrant perched at 10–15 m in and immatures. PC returned on 19 stunted forest, at 1,950 m in the May, at c.14h30, and saw two adult o o Ana Agreda same area, at 03 37’S 78 23’W, Purple Gallinules in the same which was collected and prepared Corporación Ornitológica del Ecuador, Joaquín Tinajero E3-05 y place. as a specimen by AS. It was an On 30 May, at c.08h30 we adult male with 95% skull ossifica- Jorge Drom, Quito, Ecuador. E- mail: [email protected]. revisited the pond accompanied by tion, no bursa, and the stomach two staff from the Charles Darwin contained insects. The bird was Research Station (CDRS). uniform dull black, not uniform Immature Purple Gallinules, plumbeous-grey with a paler adult-sized, were positively abdomen as is typical of the identified, and whilst both

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immatures and adults were and breeding successfully. Our Huamachuco (07o48’S 78o04’W; observed on the dead tree trunks, observations of immature 3,169 m), on the west slope of the most activity was within the pond individuals over a 10-month period eastern Andes5. Most of the vegetation. Individuals flew up are further evidence that breeding existing northernmost records are from different areas and perched is taking place. This appears to be from the same area. The first in view before disappearing again. the first record of a group of both record for the east slope of the The pure white undertail-coverts, adult and immature Purple Andes was obtained by T. S. long legs and large feet were Gallinules in Galápagos, and is by Schulenberg (pers. comm.), in particularly distinctive in flight, in far the largest group observed to 1987, at Quebrada La Caldera, 7 both adults and immatures. At date. km north-east of Tayabamba, La least six adults and three Libertad (02o21’S 90o10’W; immatures were present. References 3,225 m). On the afternoon of 14 June, 1. Castro, I. & Phillips, A. (1996) In June–July 2001, a biological DB again observed adults and A guide to the birds of the survey of Parque Nacional Río immatures, one of the latter Galápagos Islands. London, Abiseo (San Martin, Peru) was having blue coloration well UK: Christopher Helm. conducted. Most remarkable was developed on the neck- and breast- 2. Castro, M. & de Vries, T. (1970) the discovery of a population of O. sides. Her last visit was in late Purple Gallinule (Porphyrula oenanthoides,a species previously morning of 26 June in heavy martinica) in eastern Pacific unknown from dpto. San Martin, drizzle. Six, four adults and two Ocean. Ardea 58: 262. representing a range extension of immatures were visible simultane- 3. Curry, R. L. & Stoleson, S. H. c.80 km, and only the second ously, some feeding on the pond (1988) New bird records from record from the east slope of the vegetation, the others perched in the Galápagos associated Andes. An adult female was the surrounding trees. with the El Niño-Southern collected (Museo de Historia Oscillation. Condor 90: On 27 July, when water level Natural de San Marcos, MUSM 505–507. in the pond had fallen consider- 23932) and matches the 4. Harris, M. P. (1973) The ably, PC failed to observe any description of O. o. polionota in Galápagos avifauna. Condor Purple Gallinules. The following Meyer de Schauensee2. Diagnostic 75: 265–278. day a dying immature female of this subspecies are the absence Purple Gallinule was found in of wingbars, as well as the Dilys Bateman and Pam Cooke Puerto Ayora and brought to the generally brighter coloration Charles Darwin Research Station, CDRS, where a subsequent post- compared to nominate oenan- Galápagos, Ecuador. E-mails: and mortem revealed emaciation. thoides. The area where the [email protected]. PC again observed two adults specimen was collected is at the at the pond on 27 August. She has south-west boundary of the continued to visit the pond at national park (at 07o58’S 77o22’W), monthly intervals and on each A range extension for within Puna bunch-grass in the occasion has observed both adults D’Orbigny’s Chat-tyrant high basin of the río Abiseo, a and immatures in groups of two to Ochthoeca oenanthoides tributary of the río Allpamachay, five individuals. The distribution of The genus Ochthoeca,chat-tyrants, 21 km north-west of Pias, at 3,700 calls in the vegetation and the is restricted to subtropical and m. Dominant vegetation comprises appearance of birds in different temperate zones from Venezuela the grasses Calamagrostis, Festuca areas of the pond suggest that through the Andes to southern and Paspalum. Three individuals many more are present. Her most Argentina. These mid- to small- were observed on a rocky slope, recent observation was on 10 April sized flycatchers show certain close to a small water source with 2004, when five adults were seen. similarities with Old World chats reeds, frequented by cattle. We were informed by a in structure, foraging mode and All three of the northernmost Galápagos National Park territorial behavior. They are records for the subspecies naturalist guide that two adult characterised by a prominent polionota—from Allpamachay, Purple Gallinules were observed at supercilium and, in most species, Huamachuco4,5, and Quebrada La the same pond by a group she was two wingbars. According to Fjeldså Caldera—were obtained within the 1 guiding in October 2000 (Angelika & Krabbe , O. oenanthoides ranges species’ known elevation range3.It Jahnel pers. comm.). Curry & between 2,800 and 4,500 m, from is thus possible that it is more Stoleson3 suggested an association La Libertad and Húanuco, in Peru, widespread on the east slope of the between the occurrence in to Tucumán, in north-west Andes than presently known. A Galápagos of several bird species, Argentina. It has two subspecies: healthy population of the species including Purple Gallinule, and El polionota, from La Libertad to was found by us, in May 2003 at Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) northern Chile (Tarapacá), and Cayacuyan, a highly disturbed events. The last full-scale ENSO oenanthoides, from extreme south- gold mine, 28.5 km south-west of event in Galápagos was in 1998, east Peru (Titicaca) to Argentina. Huamachuco, at 4,040 m. and we speculate that a population Previously, the most northerly may have been present since then, record for the species was from

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Acknowledgements An albino Mottle-backed adult, it has been deposited at the We are grateful to Thomas S. Elaenia Elaenia gigas in Manu Museo Nacional de Historia Schulenberg, James V. Remsen, Biosphere Reserve, Peru Natural del Paraguay (catalogue José Tello, Paul Velazco, Marcelo During January 2004, at Amazonia no. 001694). All rectrices were in Stucchi, Thomas Valqui and Lodge in the Manu Biosphere pin, but otherwise the bird showed Carolina Casaretto for their Reserve, at 500 m altitude, we no signs of moult. Measurements assistance. observed a bird with a completely are similar to those previously 6,7 creamy-white body, pink bill, and reported for the species . References black irides and legs. It occasion- On 21 October 2000, RPC and 1. Fjeldså, J. & Krabbe, N. (1990) ally appeared to show the crest Alejandro Bodrati briefly heard The birds of the high Andes. typical of Mottle-backed Elaenia (and RPC glimpsed) two small Copenhagen: Zool. Mus., Elaenia gigas,a species with crakes believed to be L. exilis in Univ. Copenhagen & which we are very familiar in this marshy vegetation at Bahía de o Svendborg: Apollo Books. area. On one occasion we played Asunción (dpto. Central; 25 16’S, o 2. Meyer de Schauensee, R. M. the vocalisation of Mottle-backed 57 37’W). On 28 October 2000, (1982) A guide to the birds of Elaenia, to which the albino RPC and AJL were able to confirm South America.Washington responded. The bird regularly the identity as L. exilis. Two were DC: International Council for perched in the tops of trees from observed, whilst a further 19 were Bird Preservation. where it caught insects. We have heard in 13 distinct areas of the 4 3. Parker, T. A., Stotz, D. F. & seen no previous reports of bay (giving the dit-dit call —a Fitzpatrick, J. W. (1996) albinism in this genus. series of dit-dit-dit notes). Ecological and distributional However, despite regular visits to databases. In: Stotz, D., Acknowledgement Bahía de Asunción (over 100 Fitzpatrick, J. W., Parker, T. We thank Steve Urban for his between September 2000 and & Moskovits, D. Neotropical assistance. August 2003) the species was birds: ecology and conserva- subsequently recorded only on 22 tion. Chicago: University of November 2000 (one heard by Chicago Press. Ramiro Yábar and Virgilio Yábar AJL), 22 January 2003 (one 4. Salvin, O. H. (1895) On birds observed after playback by JK) collected in Peru by Mr. O. T. Calle Matará 334 Cusco, Peru. E- and 2 February 2003 (one heard by Baron. Novit. Zool.2:1–22. mail: [email protected]. RPC). If L. exilis is resident in 5. Zimmer, J. T. (1937) Studies of Bahía de Asunción, it appears to Peruvian birds. No.26. Amer. be vocally active for a very limited Mus. Novit. 930: 1–27. New records of Grey-breasted Crake Laterallus exilis in period (primarily the austral spring). Alternatively, the species Jean Mattos and Irma Franke Paraguay may undertake local movements Departamento de Ornitología, Grey-breasted Crake Laterallus between the bay and nearby Museo de Historia Natural de San exilis has a widespread but wetlands, according to water-level Marcos, Apartado Postal 14-0434, apparently fragmented distribu- fluctuations in the former. Lima, Peru. E-mail: tion from Guatemala to north-east 4,5,7 As with the recent Argentine [email protected]. Argentina . There are just three 4,5 documented records in Paraguay, records , all of those recorded at from Estancia Golondrina (dpto. Bahía de Asunción were in Presidente Hayes) on 6 August grassland areas periodically 19796, at Riacho Ñeembucú, north subject to flooding, whilst the of Pilar (dpto. Ñeembucú) in Sombrero bird was found close to January 19941, and three calling similar habitat. These new at Isla Yacyretá (dpto. Itapúa) in Paraguayan records confirm the November 19952. The first was species’ presence in the country initially considered to represent an during the austral spring and exceptional southward range summer, and suggest that L. exilis extension6. However, the is considerably under-recorded subsequent records in Paraguay throughout the south of its range. and the species’ recent discovery in Indeed, the Bahía de Asunción Argentina3,4,5 suggest that it is records were only 2 km from the more widespread than previously centre of Asunción, the thought, a supposition supported Paraguayan capital. Greater by new observations in Paraguay. observer awareness seems likely to be a factor in the recent increase in Figure 1. Albino Mottle-backed Elaenia On 4 September 2000, LB records of the species in Paraguay Elaenia gigas, Amazonia Lodge, Manu found a dead L. exilis beside one of and Argentina. However, the Biosphere Reserve, Peru, January 2004 the main buildings at Estancia distinctiveness of at least some of (R. & Y. Yábar) Sombrero (dpto. Cordillera; 4 25o00’S, 56o38’W). An unsexed the vocalisations of L. exilis

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argues against the species having Netherlands. E-mail: coordinates from a GPS), in the been overlooked until recently, and [email protected]. Alto Chaco region of Paraguay. The suggests that it might be Silvery were observed expanding its range in the region. Lucía Bartrina through a 20–45˘ telescope from a Fundación Moisés Bertoni, C.C. distance of 350–500 m for a period Acknowledgements 714, Asunción, Paraguay. E-mail: of 15 minutes, and were identified We thank J. Mazar Barnett for [email protected]. by the pure white foreneck with comments on an earlier version of only a narrow dark stripe along this note. the hindneck; White-tufted Grebe, in contrast, always has a darker Additional records of Silvery References neck3,7. The cheeks appeared paler 1. Contreras, J. R. & Contreras, Grebe Podiceps o. occipitalis, a than the rest of the head, A. O. (1994) Acerca de Neotropical austral migrant, in suggesting that they were Laterallus exilis (Temminck, Paraguay moulting into alternate plumage. 1831) y de Calidris bairdii Silvery Grebe Podiceps occipitalis The throat was dusky coloured, (Coues, 1861) en la República has two races: juninensis, which which is typical of nominate del Paraguay (Aves: Rallidae breeds in high-Andean wetlands occipitalis; in contrast, juninensis y Scolopacidae). Nótulas from Colombia to Argentina, and has a pure white throat3. Faunísticas 51: 1–4. nominate occipitalis, which breeds Subsequently, three Silvery Grebes 2. Lowen, J. C., Clay, R. P., Mazar in lowland Patagonian wetlands in were seen on 10 August 1995 by J. Barnett, J., Madroño Nieto, Chile and Argentina, and is known Bates, K. Burns, S. Conyne, C. A., Pearman, M., López to migrate north in the austral 3,7 Griffiths, P. Kaestner, N. Klein, T. Lanús, B., Tobias, J. A., Liley, winter . The only previously Schulenberg and B. Whitney, and D. C., Brooks, T. M., Esquivel, published record for Paraguay is a ten were seen on 13 August 1995 E. Z. & Reid, J. M. (1997) specimen collected on 15 June by D. Finch and JEA. None was New and noteworthy obser- 1979 at Acaray Reservoir, observed by a group of visiting vations on the Paraguayan Hernandarias, dpto. Alto Paraná o o ornithologists on 14 August 1995 avifauna. Bull. Brit. Orn. (25 23’S 54 38’W), near the Paraná (J. Wunderle pers. comm.). Club 117: 275–293. River in the Alto Paraná region 4 JEA has returned to Laguna 3. Mazar Barnett, J. & Pearman, (see Hayes for definitions of Salada on various occasions at all M. (2001) Annotated checklist geographical regions); the seasons but observed Silvery of the birds of Argentina. specimen is deposited at the Grebes only twice: four on 24 July Barcelona: Lynx Edicions. Museo de Historia Natural de 1996, and at least five on 8 July 4. Pearman, M., Pugnali, G. D., Itaipú Binacional, in 1997. None has been recorded Casañas, H. & Bodrati, A. 2,4,6 Hernandarias . Here we report subsequently at Laguna Salada (2000) First records of Grey- additional observations and despite relatively frequent visits breasted Crake Laterallus summarise the taxonomic and (5–10 p.a.) by ornithologists from exilis in Argentina. Cotinga seasonal status of the Silvery Guyra Paraguay (R. Clay pers. 13: 79–82. Grebe in Paraguay. 5. Roesler, I. & Monteleone, D. L. comm. 2004). On 8 July 1989, FEH observed All of these records, including (2002) First record of Grey- a small grebe with a whitish neck breasted Crake Laterallus the specimen at Itaipú Binacional, in an impounded marsh at were of basic-plumaged birds exilis in Corrientes, north-east Estancia La Golondrina, dpto. Argentina. Cotinga 18: 106. o observed between 15 June and 13 Presidente Hayes (24 56’S August. Furthermore, the 6. Storer, R. W. (1981) The 57o42’W), in the Bajo Chaco region. Rufous-faced Crake specimen (N. Pérez and A. Colmán It was viewed through binoculars pers. comm.) and the birds Laterallus xenopterus and its at a distance of c.100 m. At the Paraguayan congeners. observed by FEH and JAL had time, FEH thought the bird was a Wilson Bull. 93: 137–144. dusky throats, which is character- basic-plumaged White-tufted 7. Taylor, B. & van Perlo, B. istic of the nominate race Grebe Rollandia rolland and did (1998) Rails: a guide to the occipitalis of southern South not take any notes, but later rails, crakes, gallinules and America. This race of the Silvery concluded that it was a basic- coots of the world. Grebe thus appears to be an plumaged Silvery Grebe following Robertsbridge: Pica Press. uncommon Neotropical austral subsequent examination of migrant1,5 to wetlands of the Robert P. Clay, Arne J. specimens and further observa- Paraguayan Chaco and rarely to Lesterhuis and Juan Klavins tions in Paraguay (see below). the Paraná River valley of eastern Guyra Paraguay, C.C. 1132, On 3 August 1995, FEH and Paraguay, although there Asunción, Paraguay. E-mails: JAL observed three basic- apparently have been no records [email protected] (RPC) and plumaged Silvery Grebes among since 1997. [email protected] (JK). AJL several hundred alternate- currently at: Van Hall Institute, plumaged White-tufted Grebes at Agora 1, Leeuwarden, The Laguna Salada, dpto. Presidente Hayes (22o31’S, 59o19’W;

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Acknowledgements address: Department of Biology, References We thank N. Pérez Villamayor and Pacific Union College, 1 Angwin 1. Hempel, A. (1949) Estudo da A. Colmán Jara for re-examining Ave., Angwin, CA 94508, USA. E- alimentação natural de aves the Itaipú Binacional specimen; A. mail: [email protected]. silvestres do Brasil. Arq. Inst. & K. Robinson for FEH’s 1989 trip Biol. 19: 237–267. to Estancia La Golondrina; C. Jane A. Lyons 2. Laps, R. (1993) Dieta e Sandoval of Natur for introducing U. S. Peace Corps, Br. Artigas 531, tamanho de bando em três us to Chaco Lodge at Laguna Montevideo, Uruguay. Present espécies de Ramphastidae da Salada; J. Bates, D. Finch, N. address: Mindo Bird Tours, Casilla mata Atlântica do estado de Klein, T. Schulenberg and J. Postal 17-17-404, Quito, Ecuador. São Paulo. In: Resumos de III Wunderle for sharing their obser- E-mail: [email protected]. Congresso Brasileiro de vations; the V Congress of Ornitologia, Pelotas, 1993. Neotropical Ornithology for Jorge Escobar Argaña Pelotas, RS: Sociedade Brasileira de Ornitologia. bringing together many ornitholo- Padre Cardozo 496, Asunción, 3. Mikich, S. B. (1996) A dieta de gists; and R. Clay for reviewing the Paraguay. manuscript. algumas espécies de ranfastídeos e a relação entre seu ciclo biológico e a References Baillonius 1. Chesser, R. T. (1994) Migration disponibilidade de alimento. bailloni eating flowers in Rio de In: Resumos de V Congresso in South America: an Janeiro, Brazil overview of the austral Brasileiro de Ornitologia, During a visit to Itatiaia National system. Bird Conserv. Intern. Campinas, 1996. Campinas, Park, Rio de Janeiro state, on 4: 91–107. SP: Sociedade Brasileira de 19–22 June 2003, I observed three 2. Colmán, A. & Pérez, N. (1991) Ornitologia. Saffron Toucanets Baillonius Registro de nuevas especies 4. Schubart, O., Aguirre, A. C. & bailloni feeding on flowers of a de aves para el Paraguay. In: Sick, H. (1965) Contribuição Acosta, E. (ed.) Encuentro de Tabebuia sp., at 1,150 m (Fig. 1). para o conhecimento das ornitología de Paraguay, The flowers were taken using the aves brasileiras. Arq. Zool. Brasil y Argentina. Asunción: tip of the bill, whereupon the São Paulo 12: 95–249. Itaipú Binacional, nectary, which was the only part to 5. Short, L. L. & Horne, J. F. M. Universidad Nacional de be consumed, was manoeuvred (2001) Toucans, barbets and Asunción & Sociedad de inside the mandibles, sometimes honeyguides. Oxford: Oxford Biología del Paraguay. using one of the feet to hold the University Press. 3. Fjeldså, J. & Krabbe, N. (1990) flower and usually dropping the Birds of the high Andes. petals. I have discovered no Eduardo Maciel Copenhagen: Zool. Mus., references to flowers in the diet of Fundação Instituto Estadual de any of the Ramphastidae1–5. Florestas/RJ, Av. Presidente Univ. Copenhagen & o Svendborg: Apollo Books. Vargas 670, 19 andar, Rio de 4. Hayes, F. E. (1995) Status, Janeiro, RJ, Brazil. distribution and biogeogra- phy of the birds of Paraguay. Monogr. Field Ornithol. No. 1. Colorado Springs, CO: PUBLISHED RECORDS American Birding FROM THE LITERATURE Association. 5. Hayes, F. E. (1995) Definitions WEST INDIES for migrant birds: what is a Neotropical migrant? Auk Barbados 112: 521–523. Frost & Massiah19 provide 6. Hayes, F. E., Scharf, P. A. & documentary evidence for three Ridgely, R. S. (1994) Austral new species to the island: bird migrants in Paraguay. Condor 96: 83–97. Blackburnian Warbler 7. Narosky, T. & Yzurieta, D. Dendroica fusca, Canada Warbler (1989) Birds of Argentina Wilsonia canadensis and and Uruguay. Buenos Aires: Baltimore Oriole Icterus galbula, Asociación Ornitológica del with a sight record of a fourth, Plata. Chimney Swift Chaetura pelagica. Floyd E. Hayes Figure 1. Saffron Toucanet Baillonius Department of Biology, Caribbean bailloni feeding on Tabebuia flowers, Cuba Union College, P.O. Box 175, Port of Itatiaia National Park, Rio de Janeiro, Recently published records from Spain, Trinidad & Tobago. Current June 2003 (Eduardo Maciel) the island include the third record

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of Red-necked Phalarope Puerto Rico Campylorhamphus pusillus (at Phalaropus lobatus in November New information reveals that 2,500 m) and a Yellow-throated 200228 and the first detailed Northern Waterthrush Seiurus Warbler Dendroica dominica in reports (including four specimens) noveboracensis, at least occasion- late-December 2003. of Nutmeg Mannikin Lonchura ally, remains year-round on the punctulata, in March 200347.Other island41. Guatemala notable records include a new New data from the Atlantic slope report of Ruby-crowned Kinglet St Martin of the country suggest that, at Regulus calendula, the first winter Scaly-breasted Thrasher least locally, the population of sighting of Tennessee Warbler Margarops fuscus has recently Yellow-headed Parrot Amazona Vermivora peregrina,a new sight colonised the island, where oratrix may be in decline14. record of Canada Warbler previously it was considered an Wilsonia canadensis, among other accidental visitor9, whilst a Mexico interesting reports from recent Chestnut-sided Warbler Peterson et al.42 present 12 winters , whilst a study of Dendroica pensylvanica was information on the avifauna of two waterbirds on Cayo Sabinal trapped on the island in February dry-forest localities in Oaxaca, produced a number of novel 2002, one of the few records for the whilst among other papers records including the seventh Lesser Antilles10. recently published in the online record of Great Black-backed journal Huitzil is a report of the Gull Larus marinus and the third MIDDLE AMERICA first Horned Lark Eremophila of Common Black-headed Gull alpestris for the Yucatán 5 L. ridibundus . 33 Costa Rica Peninsula and the discovery of a The first nesting data for Silvery- breeding colony of Sooty Dominica fronted Tapaculo Scytalopus Sterna fuscata in Tamaulipas23. Recent seabird reports from the argentifrons have been island’s waters include the first presented57. The Gone Birding Panama documented record of Cory’s Newsletter21,22 continues to provide Angehr et al.2 report on avifaunal Shearwater Calonectris diomedea an update on novel distributional surveys of the Serranía de and a probable Manx Jungurudó, in the east of the 30 and other data for birds in the Shearwater Puffinus puffinus . country. Recent information country. Data are presented for 27 presented therein include the first species, including several poorly Dominican Republic Cory’s Shearwater Calonectris known in Panama, the first Among further unusual reports diomedea in the country (a documented records for Middle from the country in recent years is moribund bird that was discovered America of Plumbeous Pigeon the first nesting record of Black and photographed in Tortuguero in Patagioenas plumbea, and the Swift Cypseloides niger, which March 2003), an offshore sight second Panamanian report of 15 was documented by photographs . record of Swallow-tailed Gull White-winged Swallow 45 Rimmer et al. report on the Creagrus furcatus in April 2003, Tachycineta albiventer. results of banding work in the an Orange-crowned Warbler Sierra de Neiba, which holds Vermivora celata, Blue-headed SOUTH AMERICA numbers of the globally threatened Vireo Vireo solitarius, Bobolink Bicknell’s Thrush Catharus Dolichonyx oryzivorus and Argentina bicknelli in winter. Lincoln’s Sparrow Melospiza Masked Water-tyrant Fluvicola lincolnii all in late September nengeta has recently been added to Grenada 2003, as well as new high in- the list of Argentine birds, based Channel-billed Toucan country altitudinal data for Bat on a record in Misiones province31. Ramphastos vitellinus appears to Falcon Falco rufigularis and Many other new distributional have become established on the Barred Forest-falcon Micrastur records have been published island as a result of an aviary ruficollis. In late-November 2003 recently, including the first record being dismantled in the late and January 2004, there were of Wedge-tailed Grass-finch 35 20 1980s .Frost & Massiah report separate reports of American Emberizoides herbicola for on rare birds recorded on the Bittern Botaurus lentiginosus Córdoba province, and the first island in August 2001, including a near the Coastal Highway (there detailed provincial records of new record of Ruff Philomachus are no records for over 100 years) White-vented Violetear Colibri pugnax. and a White-eyed Vireo Vireo serrirostris, from three different griseus was at Selva Verde Lodge localities37. New observations of Nevis in late-January 2004. In southern poorly known species in Buenos Francis16 reports on new records of Costa Rica there was a report of a Aires and La Pampa provinces White-crowned Pigeon Columba Ruddy Foliage-gleaner included many observations of leucocephala and Black Swift Automolus rubiginosus in Stripe-backed Bittern Cypseloides niger on the island, November 2003, an unusually high Ixobrychus involucris at Bañados both in April 2003. Brown-billed Scythebill

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del río Quinto, La Pampa48. Puna dominicanus colonies44. Astié3 Nighthawk Nyctiprogne Phoenicoparrus jamesi provides the first published vielliardi, from Barra, Bahia at Parque Provincial Laguna account of brood parasitism by (taken by E. Kaempfer in 1926), Llancanelo (RPLL) in January Shiny Cowbird Molothrus filling a gap in the species’ known 55 1990 and 1991, Flying Steamer- bonariensis on Black-chinned range. Vasconcelos et al. provide duck Tachyeres patachonicus at Siskin Carduelis barbata for 70 details of records of 12 new species laguna Blanca Calamuco, a Kelp years, and the locality at which the for the Serra do Caraça, Minas Gull Larus dominicanus at RPLL event occurred, in Mendoza Gerais. New nesting data for the in January 1989 and a Black province is the northernmost Pauraque Nyctidromus albicollis Skimmer Rynchops niger at the known for the siskin. have recently been presented from 54 same site in January 1989 were the same state . Dusky-tailed first records for Mendoza province, Bolivia Flatbill Ramphotrigon fuscicauda with the second provincial records Hennessey et al.27 provide details has been reported for the time in 25 for Roseate Spoonbill Ajaia of the 502 species known from the eastern Acre . Indigo Grosbeak ajaja, Semipalmated Plover Pilón Lajas Biosphere Reserve, Passerina glaucocaerulea has Charadrius semipalmatus and which straddles dptos. La Paz and recently been documented for Rio 34 Sanderling Calidris alba51.New Beni, including data for several de Janeiro state , and Jabiru data concerning the breeding globally threatened or poorly Jabiru mycteria likewise for Rio 49 biology of White-sided Hillstar known species in Bolivia, as well Grande do Sul . Oreotrochilus leucopleurus has as the first information concerning been presented from San Juan an, as yet, undescribed species of Colombia 52 province7. The first definite Santa Phyllomyias tyrannulet. Strewe & Navarro report on Fe records of Least Grebe significant new distributional data Tachybaptus dominicus and Scale- Brazil gathered for 20 species during throated Earthcreeper A new record for Brazil was recent surveys in the Santa Marta Upucerthia dumetaria have been provided by the capture of a total region, including a new species for published, as have the second of six Piping Plovers Charadrius South America, Pine Warbler provincial records for Black- melodus at a site in Rio Grande do Dendroica pinus, as well as novel bellied Whistling-duck Norte, in October and December altitudinal data for a further 26 Dendrocygna autumnalis, 20004. New records of the Rio species. Cinereous Harrier Circus Branco Antbird Cercomacra cinereus and Yellow-bellied carbonaria extend its range west Ecuador Elaenia Elaenia flavogaster. The to 03o26’N 61o11’W on the rio The first country records (tape- same authors also present the first Uraricoera (the first record for this recordings) of Zimmer’s Entre Ríos records of Lesser tributary of the rio Branco) and Tody-tyrant Hemitriccus Shrike-tyrant Agriornis murina south on the rio Branco to the minimus,in Kapawi Ecological 1 and Orange-headed Tanager mouth of the rio Anauá (01o00’N Reserve, have been reported , and Thlypopsis sordida, along with 61o22’W)50, although the species the first several other distributional has been recorded as far south on Syrigma sibilatrix (a sight record), 39 novelties for both provinces . The the rio Branco as 01o00’S by L. N. in Orellana province, was also 36 first definite record of Peregrine Naka & J. C. Minns (pers. obs.). published recently . The first Falcon Falco peregrinus in Borges8 reports on the relatively concrete information concerning Mendoza province involved a pair depauperate but highly interesting the nest and breeding biology of with a nest containing two chicks white-sand forest avifauna of the the globally threatened Long- 40 in December 1999 . The first important Jaú National Park, wattled Umbrellabird observations of cavity nesting in Amazonas state. The first state Cephalopterus penduliger, based three Patagonian species, White- record for Tocantins (a consider- on observations in north-west 29 crested Elaenia Elaenia albiceps, able range extension) for Manu Ecuador, has been published . Austral Thrush Turdus Antbird C. manu has also been Further, the first known nests of falcklandii and Patagonian published recently6. the Moustached Antpitta Sierra-finch Phrygilus caerulescens has Grallaria alleni, discovered in patagonicus,have been described recently been found further south Ecuador and Colombia, have been 17 from Nahuel Huapi National Park, than previously reported, in described recently .Freile & 18 Rio Negro, between 2000 and Lavras municipality, in southern Chaves report on the avifauna of 38 2002 .A new breeding colony of Minas Gerais53. Roda et al.46 report Otonga, Cotopaxi province, the globally threatened Olrog’s new observations and specimens presenting details for 20 species, Gull Larus atlanticus was located for 13 globally threatened species among them several considered at an islet south-west of Punta in the perilously few remaining globally threatened or near 24 Alta, Buenos Aires, in November fragments of Atlantic Forest in the threatened. Greeney et al. 2001. A total of 340 active nests north-eastern states. Cleere11 present nesting data for 31 species was counted, in four sub-groups, provides details of only the fourth gathered at Sacha Lodge, Napo located within Kelp Gull L. specimen of Plain-tailed province.

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Netherlands Antilles Venezuela 7 November 2003 (AK, GMK), the Prins et al.43 provide details of the A recent paper presents sixth record of Orange-crowned first specimen and breeding record information on 14 species in Warbler Vermivora celata on Cayo of Barn Owl Tyto alba for Mérida, including two new state Coco, on 13 November 2003 (KB, Bonaire, whilst a separate paper records and several altitudinal GMK), another report of provides information on the same range extensions56. Northern Potoo Nyctibius species’ status on Curaçao in the jamaicensis in the Zapata region, late 1980s13. in mid-November (AK, GMK), and an additional report, involving a Paraguay OTHER RECORDS subadult, of Lesser Black- The first documented country RECEIVED backed Gull Larus fuscus in La record of Habana harbour, on 25 November 2003 (GMK, EVNG). A Nutmeg Schistochlamys ruficapillus Bahamas Mannikin Lonchura punctulata in involves a specimen found at the Unprecedented numbers of the grounds of the Sierra Maestra Museo de La Plata, and collected American Pipits Anthus hotel, Bayamo, Granma province, at Tacurupucú, dpto. Alto Paraná, rubescens were present in January 58 on 9 November, represents a new in June 1920 . 2003, when flocks of up to 50 were site for this species that now found on Grand Bahama, Abaco appears to be colonising the island Peru and Eleuthera. On the latter 1 (see Published records from the Alvarez Alonso & Whitney report island during the same period literature). A Brown Noddy further on the avifauna of white- there were also 30 Kirtland’s Anous stolidus off Marina sand forests in the region, Warblers Dendroica kirtlandii at Hemingway, Havana, on 17 documenting the presence of eight 12 new sites. Magnificent November, was unusually late species previously unreported in Frigatebird Fregata magnificens (SE). Peru—Grey-legged Tinamou was discovered nesting in the Crypturellus duidae, Barred Marls, Abaco, alongside Double- Tinamou C. casiquiare, White- crested Phalacrocorax Guyana winged Potoo Nyctibius auritus, the northernmost colony WB reports recent sight records of leucopterus, Cherrie’s Antwren in the world. Great Shearwater Blue-crowned Manakin Myrmotherula cherriei, Zimmer’s Puffinus gravis has been reported Lepidotrix coronata and Euler’s Tody-tyrant Hemitriccus from Bahamian waters several Flycatcher Lathrotriccus euleri, minimus, Helmeted Pygmy- times previously, but one the former has not previously been tyrant Lophotriccus galeatus, photographed off Highborne Cay, recorded in the country and the Saffron-crested Tyrant- Exumas, in July 2003 was the first latter has only recently been added manakin Neopelma documented record and latest date to the list of species known to chrysocephalum and Pompadour in the year for . Also reliably occur. Cotinga Xipholena punicea—and in 2003, several Long-billed two for which only sight or aural Dowitchers Limnodromus Jamaica records were previously available, scolopaceus were photographed Among many waterfowl at Great Brown-banded Puffbird and their calls recorded at Wilson Pedro Pond, Treasure Beach, on Notharchus ordii and Band-tailed Pond, New Providence, providing 21–22 February 2004, were nine Nighthawk Nyctiprogne the first verifiable report for the Anas clypeata,40 leucopyga, as well as providing Bahamas. A Ring-necked Ducks Aythya new distributional information for canadensis was present on Andros collaris and at least one Lesser a further five species that are in November and December 2003, Scaup A. affinis (B & RQ). poorly known in the country. A yet another new species for the paper in Wilson Bulletin presents archipelago (all per TW). Acknowledgements the first breeding data for the The following forwarded or Cinereous Mourner Laniocera Brazil commented on records: Keith hypopyrrha, based on observations A member of the Rufous-vented Betton (KB), Wayne Burke (WB), from Cocha Cashu Biological Stephen Edwards (SE), Arturo 32 Ground-cuckoo Neomorphus Station, dpto. Madre de Dios . geoffroyi group was observed and Kirkconnell (AK), Guy M. Kirwan tape-recorded at Alta Floresta, (GMK), Alexander Lees (AL), A. M. Trinidad & Tobago Mato Grosso, on 7 June 2003 (AL). Macfarlane, Veronica Nogueira Hayes26 reports on the first sight Gama (EVNG), Bill & Rowena record of Northern Parula Cuba Quantrill (B & RQ), Tony White Parula americana for Trinidad (in Recent records (all 2003) from the (TW) and David Wege. February 1998) and the fourth in island include: the second record of Tobago (in the same month). the western form of Willet Neotropical Notebook: compiled Catoptrophorus semipalmatus by Juan Mazar Barnett, Guy M. inornatus at Playa, La Habana, on Kirwan and Jeremy Minns.

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References (Margarops fuscus). J. Carib. and unusual birds on 1. Alvarez Alonso, J. & Whitney, Orn. 16: 24–25. Grenada. J. Carib. Orn. 16: B. M. (2003) New distribu- 10. Brown, A. C. & Collier, N. 63–65. tional records of birds from (2003) Occurrence of an over- 21. Garrigues, R. (2003) The Gone white-sand forests of the wintering Chestnut-sided Birding Newsletter 4 (4). northern Peruvian Amazon, Warbler (Dendroica pensyl- 22. Garrigues, R. (2004) The Gone with implications for biogeog- vanica) on St. Martin, Lesser Birding Newsletter 5 (1). raphy of northern South Antilles. J. Carib. Orn. 16: 23. Garza-Torres, H. A. & Navarro America. Condor 105: 66–67. S.,A.G.(2003) Breeding 552–566. 11. Cleere, N. (2004) A previously records of the Sooty Tern in 2. Angehr, G. R., Christian, D. G. unidentified museum Tamaulipas and its distribu- & Aparicio, K. M. (2004) A specimen of Plain-tailed tion on the Gulf of Mexico. survey of the Serranía de Nighthawk Nyctiprogne Huitzil 4: 22–25. Jungurudó, an isolated vielliardi (Caprimulgidae). 24. Greeney, H. F., Gelis, R. A. & mountain range in eastern Bull. Brit. Orn. Club 124: White, R. (2004) Notes on Panama. Bull. Brit. Orn. 71–72. breeding birds from an Club 124: 51–62. 12. Craves, J. A. & Hall, K. R. Ecuadorian lowland forest. 3. Astié, A. A. (2003) New records (2003) Notable bird sightings Bull. Brit. Orn. Club 124: of Shiny Cowbird (Molothrus from Cuba, winters 2002 and 28–37. bonariensis) parasitism of 2003. J. Carib. Orn. 16: 25. Guilherme, E., Nobre, H. R. & Black-chinned Siskins 31–34. Gonzaga, L. P. (2003) The (Carduelis barbata). Wilson 13. Debrot, A. O., de Freitas, J. A., first record of the avian near- Bull. 115: 212–213. Bouwer, A. & Marwijk Kooy, obligate bamboo specialist 4. Azevedo Júnior, S. M. de, M. van (2001) The Curaçao Dusky-tailed Flatbill Larrazábal, M. E. de & Pena, Barn Owl: status and diet, (Ramphotrigon fuscicauda) O. (2003) First record of 1987–1989. J. Carib. Sci. 37: in the eastern Acre state, Charadrius melodus Ord 185–193. Brazil. Lundiana 4: 157–159. (Aves ) in 14. Eisermann, K. (2003) Status 26. Hayes, F. E. (2003) First sight Brazil. Rev. Bras. Zool. 20: and conservation of Yellow- record of Northern Parula 559–560. headed Parrot Amazona (Parula americana) for 5. Barrio Valdés, O., Blanco oratrix “guatemalensis” on Trinidad and a fourth record Rodríguez, P. & Soriano, R. the Atlantic coast of for Tobago. J. Carib. Orn. 16: (2003) Nuevos registros de Guatemala. Bird Conserv. 20–21. aves acuáticas en Cayo Intern. 13: 361–366. 27. Hennessey, A. B., Herzog, S. A., Sabinal, Camagüey, Cuba. J. 15. Fernández, E. M. & Keith, A. Kessler, M. & Robison, D. Carib. Orn. 16: 22–23. R. (2003) Three unusual bird (2003) Avifauna of the Pilón 6. Beadle, D., Grosset, A., nests from the Dominican Lajas Biosphere Reserve and Kirwan, G. M. & Minns, J. Republic. J. Carib. Orn. 16: Communal Lands, Bolivia. (2003) Range extension for 73–74. Bird Conserv. Intern. 13: the Manu Antbird 16. Francis, J. (2003) Recent 319–349. Cercomacra manu in north sightings of White-crowned 28. Jiménez, A., Rodríguez, A. & Brazil. Bull. Brit. Orn. Club Pigeon and Black Swift on Morales, J. (2003) Nuevo 123: 236–239. Nevis. J. Carib. Orn. 16: 72. reporte para el Zarapico 7. Bodrati, A., Mérida, E. & 17. Freile, J. F. & Chaves, J. A. Nadador (Phalaropus Montenegro, L. (2003) (2004) Interesting distribu- lobatus) en Cuba. J. Carib. Nidificación del Picaflor tional records and notes on Orn. 16: 61. Andino Común the biology of bird species 29. Karubian, J., Castañeda, G., (Oreotrochilus leucopleurus) from a cloud forest reserve in Freile, J. F., Salazar, R. T., en el Parque Nacional El north-west Ecuador. Bull. Santander, T. & Smith, T. B. Leoncito, provincia de San Brit. Orn. Club 124: 6–16. (2003) Nesting biology of a Juan, Argentina. Nuestras 18. Freile, J. F. & Renjifo, L. M. female Long-wattled Aves 45: 26–28. (2003) First nesting records Umbrellabird Cephalopterus 8. Borges, S. H. (2003) Species of the Moustached Antpitta penduliger in north-western poor but distinct: bird (Grallaria alleni). Wilson Ecuador. Bird Conserv. assemblages in white sand Bull. 115: 11–15. Intern. 13: 351–360. vegetation in Jaú National 19. Frost, M. D. & Massiah, E. B. 30. Keith, A. R. & Keith, L. W. Park, Brazilian Amazon. Ibis (2001) Four new and rare (2003) More pelagic bird 146: 114–124. Nearctic–Neotropical sightings off Dominica. J. 9. Brown, A. C. & Collier, N. landbird migrants during Carib. Orn. 16: 26–30. (2003) Recent colonization of autumn from Barbados. J. 31. Krauczuk, E. R., Kurday, D. & St. Martin by the Scaly- Carib. Sci. 37: 281–283. Arzamendia, E. (2003) breasted Thrasher 20. Frost, M. D. & Massiah, E. B. Presencia de Fluvicola (2003) Observations of rare nengeta en la provincia de

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Misiones, Argentina. censis) en Puerto Rico. J. para la provincia de Lundiana 4: 161. Carib. Orn. 16: 70–71. Mendoza, Argentina. 32. Londoño, G. A. & Cadena, C. D. 42. Peterson, A. T., Escalona- Nuestras Aves 45: 24–26. (2003) The nest and eggs of Segura, G., Zyskowski, K., 52. Strewe, R. & Navarro, C. the Cinereous Mourner Kluza, D. A. & Hernández- (2004) New and noteworthy (Laniocera hypopyrrha). Baños, B. E. (2003) Avifaunas records of birds from the Wilson Bull. 115: 115–118. of two dry forest sites in Sierra Nevada de Santa 33. MacKinnon, B., Laesser, J., northern Oaxaca, Mexico. Marta region, north-eastern Rotenberg, J. & Tellez, L. I. Huitzil 4: 3–9. Colombia. Bull. Brit. Orn. (2003) Eremophila alpestris 43. Prins, T. G., de Freitas, J. A. & Club 124: 38–51. (Alaudidae): a new bird Roselaar, C. S. (2003) First 53. Vasconcelos, M. F. de, D’Angelo species and family for the specimen record of the Barn Neto, S., Silva Brandt, L. F., Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico. Owl Tyto alba in Bonaire, Venturin, N., Oliveira-Filho, Huitzil 4: 1–2. Netherlands Antilles. J. A. T. de & Frieiro Costa, F. A. 34. Mallet-Rodrigues, F. (2003) Carib. Sci. 39: 144–147. (2002) Avifauna de Lavras e Registro documentado do 44. Rábano, D., García Borboroglu, municípios adjacentes, sul de Azulinho (Passerina glauco- P. & Yorio, P. (2002) Nueva Minas Gerais, e comentários caerulea) no estado do Rio de localidad de reproducción de sobre sua conservação. Janeiro. Atualidades Orn. la Gaviota de Olrog (Larus Unimontes Cientifica 4: 113: 3. atlanticus) en la provincia de 153–165. 35. Massiah, E. B. & Frost, M. D. Buenos Aires, Argentina. 54. Vasconcelos, M. F., Figueiredo, (2003) Is Channel-billed Hornero 17: 105–107. C. C., Carvalho, H. Á. & Toucan (Ramphastos 45. Rimmer, C. C., Almonte, J., D’Angelo Neto, S. (2003) vitellinus) established on Garrido G., E., Meija, D. A., Observações sobre a Grenada? J. Carib. Orn. 16: Milagros P., M. & Wieczoreck, reprodução do curiango, 68–69. P. R. (2003) Bird records in a Nyctidromus albicollis 36. Mena P., V. & Jahn, O. (2003) montane forest fragment of (Gmelin, 1789), (Aves: First record of the Whistling western Sierra de Neiba, ) no estado Heron Syrigma sibilatrix for Dominican Republic. J. de Minas Gerais, Brasil. Ecuador. Bull. Brit. Orn. Carib. Orn. 16: 55–60. Lundiana 4: 141–147. Club 123: 285–287. 46. Roda, S. A., Carlos, C. J. & 55. Vasconcelos, M. F., Vasconcelos, 37. Miatello, R., Baldo, J., Rodrigues, R. C. (2003) New P. N., Maurício, G. N., Biancucci, L. & Cobos, V. and noteworthy records for Matrangolo, C. A. R., Dell’ (2003) Nuevos registros de some endemic and Amore, C. M., Nemésio, A., aves poco citadas par threatened birds of the Ferreira J. C. & Endrigo, E. Córdoba, Argentina. Nuestras Atlantic forest of north- (2003) Novos registros Aves 45: 15–21. eastern Brazil. Bull. Brit. ornitológicos para a Serra do 38. Ojeda, V. & Trejo, A. (2002) Orn. Club 123: 227–236. Caraça, Brasil, com Primeros registros de nidifi- 47. Rodriguez, Y., Garrido, O. H. & comentários sobre cación en cavidades para tres Kirkconnell, A. (2003) First distribuição geográfica de especies de aves del bosque record of Nutmeg Mannikin algumas espécies. Lundiana andino patagónico. Hornero Lonchura punctulata (Aves: 4: 135–139. 17: 85–89. Estrildidae) for Cuba. J. 56. Weller, A.-A. & Rengifo G., C. 39. de la Peña, M. R., Manassero, Carib. Orn. 16: 72. (2003) Notes on the avifauna M., López, J. L. & Luna, H. 48. Roesler, I. (2003) of the Cordillera de Mérida, (2003) Nuevos registros de Observaciones de aves poco Venezuela. Bull. Brit. Orn. aves para las provincias de comunes en el noroeste de Club 123: 261–270. Santa Fe y Entre Ríos, Buenos Aires y noreste de La 57. Young, B. E. & Zuchowski, W. Argentina. Nuestras Aves 45: Pampa, Argentina. Nuestras (2003) First description of 32–35. Aves 45: 22–24. the nest of the Silvery- 40. Pereyra Lobos, R. (2003) Notas 49. Ruschel, C. B., & Costa, R. G. fronted Tapaculo (Scytalopus sobre el Halcón Peregrino A. (2003) Primeiro registro argentifrons). Wilson Bull. (Falco peregrinus) y el de Tuiuiú, Jabiru mycteria 115: 91–93. Picabuey (Machetornis (Ciconiidae) em Alegrete, RS. 58. Zapata, A. R. P. (2002) Primer rixosus) en Mendoza, Atualidades Orn. 112: 3. registro de Schistochlamys Argentina. Nuestras Aves 45: 50. Santos, M. P. D. (2003) Novos ruficapillus ruficapillus 35. registros do chororo-do-Rio- (Emberizidae) para 41. Pérez-Rivera, R., Ramírez, L., Branco (Cercomacra Paraguay. Hornero 17: 97–98. Velázquez, J. & Molina, A. carbonaria) no estado de (2003) Presencia durante Roraima, Brasil. Atualidades todo el año de la Pizpita de Orn. 114: 3. Mangle (Seiurus novebora- 51. Sosa, H. (2003) Nuevos registros de aves acuáticas

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Handbook of the birds of the world: volume 8 fascinated to learn that recent research indicates that edited by Josep del Hoyo, Andrew Elliott and David New Zealand (Acanthisittidae) may be the last- Christie, 2003. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions. 845 pages, 81 surviving members of a group of primitive passerines colour plates, 477 colour photographs and 681 distri- long separated from the rest of the order. Apparently bution maps. UK £110. these wrens and the Australasian families of scrub- birds (Atrichornithidae) and lyrebirds (Menuridae) The latest volume of HBW will be of great interest to don’t fit ‘easily’ into the suboscine or the oscine students of Neotropical birds, as six of the nine families passerines, and probably should be treated as a that it covers are essentially Neotropical—ovenbirds separate group coming before the suboscines. (Furnariidae), woodcreepers (Dendrocolaptidae), typical However, as this volume was well into production antbirds (Thamnophilidae), ground antbirds before this finding became common knowledge the (Formicariidae), (Conopophagidae) and editors have elected to place the three families (Rhinocryptidae)—whilst the other three, between the suboscines and the oscines. broadbills (Eurylaimidae), asities (Philepittidae) and The family introductions are superb reading once pittas (Pittidae) occupy only 13% of this volume. The list again—full of pertinent facts and frequently containing of authors of the sections relevant to our region reads information about a species which isn’t included in the like a ‘Who’s who’ of Neotropical ornithology—Isler, specific account. This seems to be especially true of the Krabbe, Marantz, Remsen, Schulenberg, Whitney, sections on Systematics, which often discuss the Zimmer, etc.—authoritative authors indeed. In reasons for the taxonomy followed. For example, it’s contrast, I was struck by the lack of artists who here that you’ll discover why two species of pitta Pitta specialise in the Neotropics amongst those commis- sp. have been ‘lumped’, and why none of the 15 sioned to paint the plates—with the exception of one subspecies of Olivaceous Woodcreeper Sittasomus plate by Doug Pratt all the others have been painted by griseicapillus have yet been split. And brace yourself British artists, none of whom, as far as I am aware, have for Krabbe and Schulenberg’s account of the current spent a great deal of time in the field in the Neotropics. situation with the Scytalopus tapaculos—37 species But more on the plates later… treated here, with many more to be split! Volume 8 follows the now well-established pattern Splendid colour photographs illustrate the family of previous volumes with lengthy introductions to each introductions. Several photographers are now actively family lavishly illustrated by colour photographs and seeking photographs of seldom-taken species specifi- then detailed species accounts accompanied by colour cally for HBW, and recent photographs therefore plates and distribution maps. A number of changes predominate, but it was nice to see a much older suggested to Lynx by readers and reviewers of photograph of African Broadbill Smithornis capensis previous volumes have been made to this volume and taken by Eric & Dorothy Hosking being included. these include: listing the photographs in the index Ovenbirds and woodcreepers don’t really make for both by English and scientific name, adding major stunning photographs, being essentially rather dull in rivers to the distribution maps, adding page numbers coloration but a few striking images do stand out, to the list of References of Scientific Descriptions, and especially Edson Endrigo’s splendid portrait of two including important sound recordings in the reference Chotoy Spinetails Schoeniophylax phryganophilus. lists. In addition, the editors decided that as many of The patterns and colours of antbirds, on the other the Neotropical species covered in this volume are less hand, offer great photographic potential and there are well documented in the ornithological literature than many outstanding images including two gorgeous many of those dealt with in earlier volumes, more close-ups of White-plumed Antbird Pithys albifrons by detail than usual should be included in the species Doug Wechsler and a full-page portrait of the recently accounts, much of which has never been published rediscovered White-masked Antbird P. castanea by before. José Álvarez Alonso. As with recent volumes in the series, the so-called The plates are generally very good, as we might ‘Foreword’ is in fact an excellent essay entitled ‘A brief expect from the quality of the artists chosen, but history of classifying birds’ by Murray Bruce. This inevitably because of their differing styles some occupies 25 pages followed by eight pages of references perhaps look better or more pleasing than others. I and explains in some detail the gradual development consider the shapes and postures of some of the of ornithological classification over the last few ground antbirds to be not quite correct, with many centuries. Essentially, it sets the scene for the order to birds appearing too horizontal or slightly tilted be followed in the volumes of HBW that will cover the forward. The look accurate and I’m sure Passerines, of which this is the first, of course. Part of they’ve been thoroughly researched against skins and the introduction continues this theme and whilst not other reference material, but I do suspect that this of particular relevance to the Neotropics, I was lack of correct ‘jizz’ may be due to lack of experience of

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the birds in life. Hilary Burn’s typical antbirds on the set of appendices and notes at the end greatly add to other hand are quite stunning—and dare I say it—just the value of this book. So read on for the details. as good as Guy Tudor’s. Her Drymophila and Preceding the species accounts, there is a short Hylophylax antbirds are some of the best paintings of introduction, definition of life zones (habitat data), Neotropical birds that I’ve ever seen. It’s also very definition of symbols (codes informing migratory useful to finally have top-quality depictions of species status, taxonomic information, etc) and the acknowl- such as Marsh Antwren Stymphalornis acutirostris edgements. The introduction presents a short overview and Orange-bellied Antwren Terenura sicki. of historical avifaunal lists of Argentina, notes on Presumably at the request of the authors or editors, general taxonomy and linear sequence followed, as the artists have really worked on illustrating well as information on Spanish names used. There are subspecies in this volume with, for example, eight of also short summaries of the type of information incor- the 15 subspecies of Olivaceous Woodcreeper being porated in the very useful appendices. Following these portrayed and no less than both sexes of all eight introductory pages is a series of helpful maps. The first subspecies of Variable Antshrike Thamnophilus is a fine map of Argentina outlining the nine life zones caerulescens—16 paintings of one species that take up used here. For those not well versed in Argentina’s almost all one plate! geography it may be difficult to determine where these As mentioned, the species texts have been life zones are exactly, as there is no political or other lengthened and in some cases are quite long now, geographic references in the map. This is a minor point especially compared to many of those in the first few partially overcome by the maps in the following pages. volumes. The text for Strong-billed Woodcreeper The next map shows the offshore boundaries used in Xiphocolaptes promerophyrinchus, for example, fills a the book for pelagic species. Note that the list includes full page and quarter—and this is small print on a big the Falkland Islands (Malvinas), South Georgia, the page! The texts include much information never Scotia Arc, the South Shetlands, South Orkneys (label published before and the authors have cast their nets inadvertently omitted from the map), Antarctic wide in trawling for facts. Ironically, the day before I Peninsula and that part of Antarctica claimed by read that the vocalisations of Scallop-breasted Argentina. The authors state, regarding the inclusion Antpitta Grallaricula loricata are unknown, I received of these spots, ‘In spite of the controversy that this an e-mail from a friend in Venezuela stating that he might generate, we followed the criteria that these had just seen the species and recorded its voice! Oh areas are directly related to the continent and to the well, I guess almost all books are bound to be out of Antarctic in a biogeographical sense’. I agree with date as soon as they are published! them, and greatly appreciate that this list has valuable HBW also seems to be becoming even better value information on the distribution of birds in these for money. This volume has 845 pages, compared to 613 Antarctic and subantarctic places. Furthermore, it will pages for volume 7 and 589 pages for volume 6 (with, of make this list useful to the many visitors to the course, a similar increase in the number of plates and Antarctic that commence their journey in Ushuahia, or photographs), and yet it costs the same! This trend is Punta Arenas, as all birds that they see are included. one that I’m sure we’d all be glad to see continue. Finally, there is a map labelling the different provinces This is yet another fantastic volume in the HBW of Argentina. My only quibble with this is that it is a series and contains unprecedented quantities of slightly different projection than the life zone map two information for the Neotropical families it covers. It pages previous, and therefore it becomes slightly tricky can be thoroughly recommended. My only dilemma is to compare the two in order, e.g. to determine where how to make use of this 4-kg volume in the field? Will the Yungas forest begins and ends. there ever be a CD-ROM version I wonder? This is an entirely bilingual list, as easy to use in David Fisher English as in Spanish. The inclusion of two languages still permit a small book easily carried in the pack or pocket. Order follows a traditional sequence, the Annotated checklist of the birds of Argentina by authors choosing this more conservative approach Juan Mazar Barnett and Mark Pearman, 2001. pending stabilisation of higher-level re-organisation of Barcelona: Lynx Edicions. 96 pp. UK9.99. birds. Orders and families are well labelled and set off attractively and clearly by black or grey title bars Let me save some of you some time and cut to the respectively. The species are then found below the title chase: this book is invaluable to anyone interested in bars. A total of 998 species including the 16 endemics the avifauna of South America’s southern cone. It is a are listed. Fifty-four others are treated as hypothetical ‘must have’, being a fine piece of scholarship with a lot due to lack of evidence on occurrence; these are not part of information in a small package. The inclusion of of the main list. One omission I found is from the intro- birds in the list is objective and fair, and as such ductory section; nowhere do the authors detail the supercedes any previously published lists of Argentine criteria for inclusion in their list. Reading the appendix birds. For the visiting birder it is an authoritative list of hypothetical species it is clear that the criteria for that also can be used to check off species as you bird inclusion was some form of physical evidence, such as a this wonderful nation. For those who want to learn specimen, sound recording, video or photograph, which more detail about Argentina’s birds there is a wealth of should have been made clear in the introduction. The information on habitat and migratory movements main body of the list has each species identified by its coded into the list. But, even more importantly, a fine scientific, English and Argentine names. There are nine

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columns of check boxes for the user to use as they wish. The penultimate appendix deals with taxonomic Furthermore, for each species, codes describe the life changes incorporated in the list. These are situations zone where found (habitat in general terms), as well as where the authors choose to differ with the various migratory status. There is a clever use of capitals and works accepted as standards of taxonomy for South lower case letters in the life zone codes, with lower case American birds. In most cases these are species splits, noting habitats that are used only in an accidental some are changes in genera and others are lumps. All manner, or that were used historically. The codes at the are based on published data, so there are no taxonomic far right of the page also point to information on changes without a sound base here, as has become so taxonomic status and name changes, both Spanish and common in the popular ornithological literature. The English, as well as whether the species is accidental, authors are to be commended for keeping the introduced, a rarity or new country record. For more taxonomy of their list conservative, and changes details, these codes also refer you to the appendices (see adequately backed up by data! One taxonomic issue below). At the bottom of each page the codes are that I did not see dealt with was the split of the defined, so that you do not have to flip to the introduc- Antarctic Shag Phalacrocorax bransfieldensis and tion every time you forget what a specific code means. South Georgian Shag P. georgianus from the Imperial This is a user-friendly touch. Overall, the layout is clear Shag P. atriceps. This may be because this split was and attractive, and refreshingly uncluttered for a coded accepted in the Handbook of the birds of the world, but checklist. The boxes in the checklist are large enough given that it is controversial and relatively new it for a tick mark, or perhaps a number, but not for probably should have been dealt with here. Finally the writing notes. sixth appendix is divided into two sections: a) changes For me, the real fun came on reaching the in vernacular Spanish names and b) English appendices. There is a lot of great, new or just plain vernacular name changes. This is where I must voice a hard-to-find information that has been summarised certain amount of disagreement with the authors in here, and I think to a great extent the appendices are their name changes, although they were following an as important a contribution as that of the objective and international committee’s suggestions. I think that the complete list of Argentina’s birds. The appendices are stability of names greatly overwhelms the need for preceded by three sections, the first listing information English names to be appropriate, make sense, or give on endemics and birds previously considered endemic, adequate information on relationships. So why change the second noting introduced species, and the final Rufous-chested Dotterel Charadrius modestus to outlining which species are globally threatened. I am Rufous-chested Plover, when the former name has not clear as to why these three sections are not also been used for years? That this plover has been re- listed as appendices, of which there is a total of six. The classified, as belonging to the genus Charadrius, does first treats hypothetical species, i.e. those lacking not mean that a stable English name needs to be physical evidence of occurrence. There are many changed. My guess is that it probably doesn’t belong in records included here, with appropriate citations, and Charadrius, but that is a separate issue. One of the all in all are fine clarification of status of these species. ways to identify a Grey-flanked Cinclodes Cincolodes I will note that the hypothetical list includes observa- oustaleti is to look for the buff wash on the flanks; tions by the authors, a sign of honest application of admittedly its name is a poor one. However, it has been inclusion criteria! The second appendix treats new around for a long time and when we say Grey-flanked country records post Narosky and Yzurieta’s field Cinclodes a lot of people know which species is guide. Again, much interesting information, all fully intended, so why change this, particularly to a referenced, is included here. It is clear that the authors patronym that is difficult to pronounce? These are went to much trouble to track down records and certainly philosophical issues where people may differ information for this list, given the detail of treatment. in opinion, and perhaps I do not need to voice them The third appendix treats rarities, those species found here, but given that a bird checklist is in its most basic five or fewer times in the country. I note that, for some sense a list and validation of names I think that the reason, a sighting I made of Least Tern Sterna authors should have detailed the reasons for the name antillarum was either missed or not included here, changes, and to some extent made the case for them. I although other sightings from the same paper are do not think that English name changes should never included. I am not worried about a situation where the happen, in fact one of the changes included here I authors may have chosen not to include my report for suggested, but one must tread carefully and make a lack of details, but it would make the list more valid argument for them. Stability is valuable. I do informative if some of the published reports not commend the authors for seeking a standardised included were discussed with reference to why they list/body to follow, although these proposed names were omitted. The next appendix treats species have not been formally published. Harris’s Hawk erroneously cited for Argentina. This section is a fine Parabuteo unicinctus is noted to have a changed idea. I think it is important in a country list to detail English name in the main list, but it is missing from historical errors or confusion, and fix these. Without the final appendix. The book closes with a bibliogra- adequate clarification, erroneous records such as these phy, set of abbreviations (I would have suggested these can gain a life of their own. Some of the species noted be included after the introduction, rather than the end here have been re-printed here and there; hopefully of the book) and a thorough index. the attention given to them in this work will prevent The quibbles I note above are minor and nothing the spread of faulty information. detracts from the quality and usefulness of this

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checklist, which is a role model for such works. What I Moore world checklist. With my personal involvement will say is that the information in the appendices is so in both the above projects, my view is obviously biased valuable, and such a significant contribution, that I in their favour, but I nonetheless compliment the wish all of the species had been dealt with in such authors for their resisting the numerous changes in detail. I wonder how many users will actually be out in species limits, often with little more than anecdotal the field putting little tick marks on their list as support, and novel English names, that have emerged opposed to those who would rather have seen less with almost every new South American bird book in space devoted to the check boxes, and more to a short the last 15 years. With one exception, the only discussion of the status of each of Argentina’s birds. I deviations from the AOU species limits involve cases know this is too much to ask, and it would be a great based on published information that is also currently deal of work, but those thorough and data-rich under AOU review or has already been incorporated appendices whet my appetite for more information. I into more recent AOU SACC versions. A reasonably hope that the rest of the series of checklists that are thorough review of the text did not reveal a single being planned hold Mazar Barnett and Pearman as typographical or spelling error, and the authors are to their standard, for they made an outstanding job in be commended for their attention to detail and producing this list. accuracy. Alvaro Jaramillo Set against the background of my overwhelmingly favourable view of this project, my three minor, inter- related quibbles will take up an undeserved amount of Lista anotada de las aves de Bolivia. Quinta space. However, because these quibbles hopefully have edición by A. Bennett Hennessey, Sebastian K. Herzog relevance to any distributional works, I hereby and Francisco Sagot, 2003. Santa Cruz: Asociación broadcast them. First, the authors stated that Armonia/BirdLife International. 238 pp, not including ‘…nowadays most distributional data are gathered by index. Price unknown. field ornithologists and bird watchers rather than by museum collectors’. This unfortunately perpetuates a This handy field list of birds of Bolivia is small enough false dichotomy that disappeared a half-century ago; in to fit easily in a coat pocket yet is packed with an array fact, ‘nowadays’ those who collect specimens for of critical information. In addition to providing a museums consider themselves ‘field ornithologists’ as complete list of bird species, with scientific and well, with specimen collecting just one dimension of English names, recorded from Bolivia, for each species their ornithology. Second, the authors stated that the following information is provided, in coded form: ‘whereas the checklist of Remsen & Traylor is based (1) distribution by Bolivian department, (2) distribu- almost exclusively on specimen records, we also tion by life zones, (3) distribution by habitat type, (4) accepted records documented by tape recordings and elevational range, (5) seasonal status, (6) conservation credible sight records.’ In fact, the Remsen & Traylor status, (7) list of officially protected areas in which checklist (an earlier annotated list of Bolivian birds) recorded, (8) subspecies known from Bolivia, (9) included records supported by archived tape- alternative generic and species-level taxonomy, and recordings or photographs as well as sight records, as (10) local names for most species, not only in Spanish is clearly outlined in that work. Unfortunately, in but also, where appropriate, in Aymara, Chimane, contrast to the Remsen & Traylor checklist, in which Guaraní, Tupi-Guaraní, Guarayo and Quechua. This non-specimen records are marked as either latter feature will certainly be useful for travelling audio/photographic or sight, one cannot tell from the birders and scientists alike. Clear explanations are Lista what the quality of evidence is to support the given in the introductory text (in English and Spanish) various distributional records. Third, the authors for the terms used in each information category. wrote: ‘we opted for the risk of erroneously including The authors clearly intend this checklist to be a some misidentifications, rather than omitting many field reference, not a technical reference. Thus, a bibli- records (in most cases by experienced observers) ography that would have provided the reader with because no specimens were collected.’ As noted above, sources for the information, especially new records this is dead wrong with respect to the Remsen & over the last 15 years, has been jettisoned ‘for the sake Traylor checklist, but more importantly, it botches the of portability and ease of use in the field.’ Therefore, real dichotomy that exists in terms of quality of those seeking a technical reference to cite on Bolivian evidence supporting distributional data. As any honest distribution will not be able to use this booklet. This is observer knows, regardless of experience, mistakes are unfortunate, because it would seem to me that made regularly in field identification. Whereas referencing new national and departmental records to specimens, tape-recordings, photographs, and videos an abbreviated, fine-print bibliography would have share the attribute of being tangible evidence that can only added perhaps two pages (less than 1%) to a be re-examined independently by others, sight records, booklet of nearly 250 pages. Perhaps the authors will even those supported by sketches and extensive consider such an upgrade for future editions. written details, differ fundamentally in that this brand The classification used follows the conservative yet of evidence has already made a one-way, irreversible very up-to-date classification of the American pass through the most-biased of all filters, the human Ornithologists’ Union South American Checklist brain, and thus cannot be re-evaluated in the same Committee (SACC), which in turn largely follows the way as evidence produced without this filter. Of course recently published massive revision of the Howard & problems exist with veracity of specimen records,

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Cotinga 22 Reviews

photographs, and other tangible evidence, but those Birding in Venezuela by Mary Lou Goodwin, 2003, problems differ fundamentally from the those that Fifth edn. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions. 332 pp, several permeate sight records. I would recommend that all line drawings and maps. €15. distributional works categorise the evidence that supports records in a way that allows users to evaluate Now in its fifth incarnation, Birding in Venezuela their accuracy, namely ‘asterisk’ any record not sports a neat new design and ‘proper’ softback cover supported by archived, tangible evidence. Thus even courtesy of its ‘new’ publishers, Lynx Edicions. At over specimens, video, photographs or tapes that are not 330 pages, it is nearly 50 pages heavier than the fourth deposited in some sort of accessible archives would edition (reviewed in Cotinga 9: 96–97) due to the also be ‘demoted’ to the same general category as sight addition of new sites and, where appropriate, revised records. information for old ones. For many readers, I am sure These minor problems do not detract from the Mary Lou’s guide will require no introduction, but for utility of this list for the field ornithologist or visiting those that do the country is divided into six regional birder. The authors should be highly commended for sections, each packed with up-to-date information producing an indispensable aid for field work in concerning the best birding sites, with bird lists for Bolivia. many. All that you would expect from a site guide is J. V. Remsen, Jr. here, and some more, although some readers (myself included) might bemoan the relative lack of detailed maps. Those that are presented are clear and easy to Field guide to the birds of Machu Picchu, Peru by follow, so hopefully we might successfully plead the Barry Walker, illustrated by Jon Fjeldså, 2002. Second case for more of the same standard to be included in edn. Lima: National Trust Fund for Natural Protected the near-inevitable sixth edition. There is a huge Areas (PROFONANPE) & The Machu Picchu Program. quantity of hard-won personal advice for those 217 pp, 31 colour plates. UK£20. considering a birding visit to Venezuela, be it their first trip or their tenth. Indeed, the entire book reads Since its discovery in the early years of the 20th almost like an alternative introduction to travel in this century, the Inca city of Machu Picchu has attracted an fantastic country, due, in large part, to the rather odd estimated six million visitors. It now boasts its own style of the work, with frequent footnotes and interjec- field guide, written and illustrated by two of the people tions from the book’s editor, Clemencia Rodner, and who know Peruvian birds best, and which covers in Mary Lou’s travelling companion, Pamela Pierce. This some detail the over 400 species recorded within the aspect of the book you will either love or hate, I boundaries of the sanctuary, including the 14 suspect, but you certainly can’t fault its originality. threatened and near-threatened species. Following an Given the existence of a brand-new, absolutely first- introduction to the area we are straight into the rate field guide (see review in Cotinga 20: 119–122) species accounts. Each comprises the expected one could be forgiven for thinking that Venezuela is the information on identification, but also boasts brief life place to go (despite recent political problems), and I, history and ecology data, and some good places to find for one, am very pleased to recommend both Venezuela many of the species within the region covered by this as a birding destination and this book as a companion guide. The plates are taken and adapted from The and front-seat guide. birds of the high Andes (one of the beauties of modern Guy M. Kirwan technology) and are followed by a checklist of the birds of the area, replete with information on abundance, foraging height, elevational range and habitat preferences. There is also a list of expected additions to the Machu Picchu list, a detailed colour map of the region, a glossary and bibliography. Let me admit to not being one of the millions who has wound his or her way to Machu Picchu, but I am certain to take this along as a companion when I do. Anyone intending to go there (or indeed many other Andean localities in the country) are certain to find it useful and a lot less weight than its ‘parent’ guide. It also boasts a typo that I really cannot resist repeating: on one of the first pages we are informed that the artist was born in !942. Such an extraordinary feat of longevity certainly merits the exclamation mark. Guy M. Kirwan

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