: TANDAYAPA PRE -TRIP JUNE 18–22, 2019

Powerful Woodpecker ©Michael O’Brien

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Andean Emerald ©Paul J. Greenfield

Ecuador: Tandayapa Pre-trip June 18–22, 2019 By Paul J. Greenfield

Who could imagine that a brief three-day sampling of Ecuador’s northwestern could produce so much? It is truly astounding, especially when considering such a serendipitous activity such as birding—which is always packed with all of its inherent challenges—where good fortune is perhaps the only sure thing one can really hope for. During this trip, the unseasonal rains brought about by the uncharacteristic extension of Ecuador’s ‘winter’ rainy season caused an unusual and unexpected nesting cycle in the region we visited.

We initiated our activities en route to the northwest of the capital city of Quito–making a brief stop at the Calacalí gas station along the 10,000 ft. pass, just north of the Equator. A Variable Hawk was spotted from the bus as we drove along, and another was seen hover-gliding over the distant hills as we stretched our legs there. We continued then on our descent to the Andean foothills and an ‘official’ stop at Alambi Reserve, where we became

Victor Emanuel Nature Tours 2 Tandayapa Pre-trip to Galapagos Cruise, 2019 instantaneously mesmerized by dozens of (White-necked Jacobin, White- whiskered , Brown and Sparkling violetears, Violet-tailed Sylphs, (White-) Booted Racket-tails, Fawn-breasted and Green-crowned brilliants, Purple-throated Woodstars, a female Western Emerald, Crowned Woodnymph, Andean Emerald, and Rufous-tailed Hummingbirds) that were attracted to a setting of nectar feeders and flowers; plantain bananas were set out also, and little-by-little, White-lined, Lemon (Flame)-rumped, Blue-gray, Palm, Golden, and Silver-throated tanagers, Thick-billed and Orange-bellied euphonias, a Red-headed barbet threesome, a Buff-throated Saltator, and a pair of Golden-olive Woodpeckers, among a few additional species, came in to feed. After enjoying our packed lunch amidst the wing-whir, we took a short walk to the nearby mountain stream where we came upon a nesting female Cock-of-the-rock; a Golden-headed Quetzal that flew by a group of us; a White-capped Dipper; Torrent Tyrannulet; Golden-crowned Flycatcher; and a pair of Pacific Horneros. Looking to the skies from the terrace, some soaring Black and Turkey vultures were accompanied by a few Swallow-tailed Kites and an adult (rare) Black-and- chestnut Eagle! Not bad for starters! We then continued westward to our destination and base of operations for the following days–Séptimo Paraíso. A relaxed afternoon walk produced some interesting sights and sounds, including the bizarre grating song of Wattled Guan, looks at a perched Ruddy Pigeon, Squirrel Cuckoo, a Common Potoo (asleep at its day roost), a high-flying flock of Barred Parakeets, Montane Woodcreepers, Red-faced Spinetail, Rusty-margined Flycatcher, a male One-colored Becard, Brown-capped Vireo, Gray-breasted Wood-Wren, Yellow-throated Chlorospingus, Tropical Parula, Three-striped Warblers, and Slate-throated Whitestarts, along with Golden-naped, Blue-necked, and Beryl- spangled tanagers. Definitely, the most exciting event, among many exciting events we had already experienced, was encountering a male Club-winged Manakin doing its incredible ‘singing’ wing-display! And so Day One came to a successful finale.

Purple-throated Woodstar ©Michael O’Brien

Our second morning began with coffee and a short pre-breakfast drive to San Tadeo Birding, which I prefer to call ‘Casa Rolando’ in recognition of the creative local campesino who set up his wonderful birding garden for all to enjoy. And we surely did! So much so that we returned

Victor Emanuel Nature Tours 3 Tandayapa Pre-trip to Galapagos Cruise, 2019 in the afternoon for more…plantain bananas were set out and the action ensued in waves, as we oohed and ahhed to exceptional looks at several of the same tanagers and euphonias we’d already seen (but closer), while we added Ecuadorian Thrush, Black-striped Sparrow, Scrub Blackbird, our first Blue-winged Mountain-Tanager, and a pair of Black-capped Tanagers to our list of newcomers. A close-up male Powerful Woodpecker was a surprise there, and we watched a pair of Bronze-winged Parrots streak across the valley. Nectar feeders that were set up at a lower level of the property, overlooking the Mindo Valley, offered close-up views of Lesser , Violet-tailed Sylphs, Brown Inca, Buff-tailed and mind-blowing Velvet-purple coronets, (White-) Booted Racket-tails, Purple-bibbed Whitetips, and Empress Brilliants, among the many other species that entertained us there. What a wonderful experience to see so many species so well…what a thrill! We returned to Séptimo Paraíso for breakfast and shortly after took the 15–20 minute drive to the renowned Milpe Sanctuary—again we were glued to their néctar and plantain feeders where we secured better looks at White-whiskered Hermit and Green Thorntails, while Pale-mandibled (Collared) Araçari and Chocó Toucans showed themselves at point-blank! We heard a pair of Chocó Trogons and a Masked Trogon and encountered another Ruddy Pigeon, Spotted Woodcreepers, Plain Xenops, Scale-crested Pygmy-Tyrant, Ochre-breasted Tanager, and a female Green Honeycreeper. Back at Séptimo Paraíso in the midafternoon, we ‘picked up’ a few additional species, including Ornate Flycatcher, Smoke-colored Pewee, and Chiví Vireo, while Roger and Christine found a Golden-headed Quetzal!

Before we knew it, it was our final day. We initiated our activities with a pre-breakfast walk around the Séptimo Paraíso grounds…with Dark-backed Wood-Quail and Rufous-breasted Antthrush singing in the distance, Roger and Christine exploded with excitement having had the great fortune to come across a Sunbittern right by the hotel’s pool (‘sunspots’ and all!), along with a Chestnut-capped Brushfinch. As we checked out the area, a large flock of Band- tailed Pigeons covered several treetops up the slope; a flock of 15 Bronze-winged Parrots flew noisily by; a Chestnut-mandibled Toucan was spotted; we heard and tried to call out a Great Antshrike—a first record for Séptimo Paraíso!; Marble-faced Bristle-Tyrant, a Dusky- capped Flycatcher, and Chocó (Tricolored) Brushfinch foraged for near the lodge; and a beautiful pair of Swallow Tanagers was seen briefly. After breakfast we packed up and headed for home (more or less), spying a Variable Seedeater from the bus. Actually we headed upslope along the ‘ Paseo del Quinde ’ Ecoroute—one of ’s prime birding hot-spots, created as a birding/nature trail some twelve years ago. Our first stop was at our friends Gary and Karen Schilts’ property–‘Los Loros Locos’—where we hung out on their porch surrounded by forest and feeders. We helped them fill their néctar feeders with the expected (or unexpected) onslaught of feathered visitors (14 species in all!) even before hanging them properly—we added a beautiful Gorgeted Sunangel and our first Speckled Hummingbirds to the already incredible list of hummers we’d seen on our first two days, and we had better looks at , too. Plantain feeders attracted a few species, including a White-tipped Dove and a breathtaking pair of Flame-faced Tanagers. As we walked down the winding entrance drive towards the Ecoroute, a noisy pair of Turquoise Jays broke the silence and offered yet another feast for our eyes. Shortly after, a soaring White- throated Hawk circled overhead; this is a rather rare austral migrant to Ecuador. Just before reaching our bus, a mixed-species foraging flock began to move through the thick vegetation, and we patiently (?) peered through the tangled vines, branches, and Chusquea bamboo to come up with convincing looks at Russet-crowned Warblers, a Lineated Foliage-gleaner, a rather scarce and often confusing-to-identify Rusty-winged Barbtail, and a pair of skulking Plushcaps! The haunting owl-like Giant Antpitta sounded off from the dense understory, Victor Emanuel Nature Tours 4 Tandayapa Pre-trip to Galapagos Cruise, 2019 scarce Beautiful Jays called teasingly from nearby cover, and a Streak-capped Treehunter flew across the drive as we reached our bus.

We then continued along the Ecoroute and made our lunch stop at a point overlooking extensive forest on our left and bordering a 50,000-acre protected forest on our right…a perfect place to chow-down and bird one might think. A group of Red-billed Parrots circled about affording decent views for all; a small mixed-species foraging flock appeared, and we enjoyed super looks at some tanagers, a Cinnamon Flycatcher, a close Streaked Tuftedcheek, and Spectacled Whitestarts, among a few other species. After prolonged attempts to call in (unsuccessfully, I might add) one of western Ecuador’s flagship species, we began to return to our bus, when all-of-a-sudden, in total silence, a loose group of spectacular Plate-billed Mountain-Toucans appeared, moving closer from tree to tree—great looks! Telescope portraits, photos…the works! Not so unsuccessful after all, I’d say…

Plate-billed Mountain-Toucan ©Michael O’Brien

We ended our birding adventure with a final stop at Bellavista Cloud Forest Lodge, which is the pioneer ‘ecotourism’ endeavor established in this región; it came to be at a time when hardly anyone had ever heard of such a thing. Nectar feeders were busy, not only with the dozens of Buff-tailed Coronets, Speckled Hummingbirds, Lesser Violetear, Fawn-breasted Brilliants, Violet-tailed Sylphs, and Gorgeted Sunangels that dominated them, but also with Blue-winged Mountain-Tanagers and White-sided and Masked flowerpiercers. Not far off, our last pair of Plate-billed Mountain-Toucans came to wish us well. A nice way to bid farewell to the amazing megadiversity that Ecuador possesses. Our ascending drive up the western Andean slope and to the interAndean Valley and our hotel, ‘San José de Puembo,’ gave us

Victor Emanuel Nature Tours 5 Tandayapa Pre-trip to Galapagos Cruise, 2019 time to reflect upon all that we had experienced and seen. Our final checklist session brought an end to this chapter and left our group pondering over what the upcoming week and the Galápagos Cruise would bring, and how different it would be from the rich and colorful Andes of Continental Ecuador.

Black-capped Tanager ©Michael O’Brien

ITINERARY

June 18— Arrival at Hotel Quito June 19— Morning drive to Tandayapa Valley; brief stop at Calacalí gas station. Remainder of morning emeersed in hummingbirds and other goodies at Alambi Cloud Forest Reserve; after a field lunch there, drive to Séptimo Paraíso Lodge, with some afternoon birding (overnight at Séptimo Paraíso) June 20— Pre-breakfast birding at San Tadeo Birding (‘Casa Rolando’); breakfast at Séptimo Paraíso, and mid-morning at Milpe Bird Sanctuary; lunch and midday at Séptimo Paraíso; afternoon at San Tadeo Birding (’Casa Rolando’) (overnight at Séptimo Paraíso) June 21— Pre-breakfast birding at Séptimo Paraíso; post-breakfast departure and birding along the Paseo del Quinde Ecoroute with visit to ‘Los Loros Locos’ (Gary & Victor Emanuel Nature Tours 6 Tandayapa Pre-trip to Galapagos Cruise, 2019 Karen’s property); continuing our birding along the Ecoroute; with a final birding stop at Bellavista Cloud Forest Lodge. Drive along the Ecoroute and highway— to the Andean town of Puembo, located in the interandian valley, east of Quito; farewell dinner and final checklist there (overnight at San José de Puembo)

Chocó Toucan ©Michael O’Brien

BIRDS

H = heard Boldface = species of special interest

GUANS, CHACHALACAS & CURASSOWS: CRACIDAE Wattled Guan (Aburria aburri )—H on two days at Séptimo Paraíso; strange grating song

NEW WORLD QUAILS: ODONTOPHORIDAE Dark-backed Wood-Quail ( Odontophorus melanonotus )—H on our last morning at Séptimo Paraíso

PIGEONS & DOVES: COLUMBIDAE Band-tailed Pigeon ( Patagioenas fasciata )—A flock of up to 50 seen at Séptimo Paraíso;

Victor Emanuel Nature Tours 7 Tandayapa Pre-trip to Galapagos Cruise, 2019 another 10 or so along the Ecoroute Ruddy Piqeon ( Patagioenas subvinacea )—Singles were seen on three days at Séptimo Paraíso and Milpe White-tipped Dove ( Leptotila verreauxi )—H at various sites; 1 seen at ‘Los Loros Locos’ plantain feeder, 2 more were seen on the road along the Ecoroute White-throated Quail-Dove ( Zentrygon frenata )—H at Séptimo Paraíso Eared Dove ( Zenaida auriculata )—Generally common around Quito and more open areas in the highlands

CUCKOOS: CUCULIDAE Squirrel Cuckoo ( Piaya cayana )—Sinngles were seen at Alambi, Séptimo Paraíso, MIlpe and along the Ecoroute

POTOOS: NYCTIBIDAE Common Potoo (Nyctibius griseus )—1 roosting bird was seen on three days at Séptimo Paraíso

SWIFTS: APODIDAE White-collared ( Streptoprocne zonaris )—Only singles or 1-2 were seen on two days; at Alambi and from Séptimo Paraíso Séptimo Paraíso

HUMMINGBIRD: TROCHILIDAE White-necked Jacobin ( Florisuga mellivora )—A relatively common and widespread lower- elevation species; between 6-8 individuals seen repeatedly at Alambi and MIlpe; fewer at ‘Casa Rolando’ and Séptimo Paraíso White-whiskered Hermit (Phaethornis yaruqui )—Singles seen at Alambi and Milpe ( Colibri delphinae )—8 or so at Alambi, 4 at Séptimo Paraíso and 1 at’ Los Loros Locos’ Lesser Violetear (Colibri cyanotus )—This population is now split from Green Violetear (C. thalassinus ). Singles seen at ‘Casa Rolando’, ‘Los Loros Locos’ and Bellavista ( Colibri coruscans )—2 or so seen at Alambi; a common Highland species Gorgeted Sunangel (Heliangelus strophianus )—1 seen at ‘Los Loros Locos’; 2 more seen at Bellavista feeders; a temperate zone Chocó bioregional endemic Green Thorntail (Discosura conversii )—20 or so seen at Milpe Bird Sanctuary Speckled Hummingbird ( Adelomyia melanogenys )—2 seen at ‘Los Loros Locos’; another 1 seen at Bellavista feeders Violet-tailed Sylph (Aglaiocercus coelestis )—3 males were seen at Alambi; 10 males were encountered at ‘Casa Rolando’ on two visits; 2 males and a female seen at ‘Los Loros Locos’. Males are spectacular! Brown Inca (Coeligena wilsoni )—2 were seen briefly at ‘Casa Rolando’; 2 more were seen well at ‘Los Loros Locos’ Buff-tailed Coronet ( Boissonneaua flavescens )—Rememebr its wing-lifting and cinnamon ‘wing-pits’, buff tail and brilliant chartreuse face. 5 were seen at ‘Casa Rolando’; most numerous at’Los Loros Locos’ and Bellavista where 20 or so were observed Velvet-purple Coronet (Boissonneaua jardini )—A mind-blowing Chocó bioregional endemic species; up to 15 seen at ‘Casa Rolando’; 3 at ‘Los Loros Locos’, including a juvenile with dull brown underparts (White-) Booted Racket-tail (Ocreatus underwoodii )—Some authors split this white- Victor Emanuel Nature Tours 8 Tandayapa Pre-trip to Galapagos Cruise, 2019 booted Chocó bioregional form from the east-slope, buff-booted, populations. 5 males were seen at Alambi; 2 or so were encountered at ‘Casa Rolando’, and 1 male was seen at ‘Los Loros Locos’ Purple-bibbed Whitetip (Urosticte benjamini )—4 were seen (only) at ‘Casa Rolando’ Fawn-breasted Brilliant ( Heliodoxa rubinoides )—3 were seen at Alambi; 6 seen at ‘Casa Rolando’; 9 were seen on our last day at ‘Los Loros Locos and Bellavista Green-crowned Brilliant ( Heliodoxa jacula )—5 seen at Alambi; another 2 at Séptimo Paraíso. At least 7 were found at Milpe; 2 more at ‘Los Loros Locos’ Empress Brilliant (Heliodoxa imperatrix )—A scarce and local Chocó bioregional endemic. 3 were seen at ‘Casa Rolando’; a pair was seen at ‘Los Loros Locos’ Purple-throated Woodstar (Calliflox mitchellii )—20 or so of this Chocó bioregional endemic were seen at Alambi; 2 at Séptimo Paraíso; 4 at ‘Casa Rolando’ and 3 were seen at ‘Los Loros Locos’ Western Emerald (Chlorostilbon melanorhynchus )—1 female was seen a couple of times at Alambi Crowned Woodnymph (Thalurania colombica )—Previously considered a separate species, Green-crowned Woodnymph ( T. fannyi ), but has recently been lumped with Purple-crowned Woodnymph to form Crowned Woodnymph. 2 males (stunning) were seen at Alambi; 7 or so inall were seen at Milpe and ‘Casa Rolando’—best looks at Milpe feeders Andean Emerald ( Amazilia franciae )—6 were seen at Alambi, 2 at Séptimo Paraíso; 4 were encountered at Milpe Rufous-tailed Hummingbird ( Amazilia tzacatl )—A common lowland species in western Ecuador. 15 were seen at Alambi; 12 or so were seen at Milpe, 4 or so were seen at Séptimo Paraíso. Remember black-tipped coral-red bill and rufous tail.

SUNBITTERN: EURYPYGIDAE Sunbittern (Eurypyga helias )—Roger and Christine saw 1 at the Séptimo Paraíso po

HERONS,EGRETS & BITTERNS: ARDEIDAE Cattle Egret ( Bubulcus ibis )—Numberous; flocks were observed overflying Séptimo Paraíso, also from ‘Casa Rolando’ Between 40-50 or so were seen on two mornings

NEW WORLD VULTURES: CATHARTIDAE Black Vulture ( Coragyps atratus )—Generally common throughout Ecuador—from 10 to 30 or so were seen daily Turkey Vulture ( Cathartes aurea )—Generally less common than the previous species; pairs were seen soaring above Alambi and at MIlpe

KITES, EAGLES & HAWKS: ACCIPITRIDAE Swallow-tailed Kite (Elanoides forficatus )—Between 1-7 were seen on three days: Alambi, Séptimo Paraíso, Milpe, and along the Ecoroute mainly; always elegant! Black-and-chestnut Eagle (Spiaetus isidori )—1 of this rare and local Andeanspecies was seen soaring high above Alambi Roadside Hawk (Rupornis magnirostris )—Singles were seen near Séptimo Paraíso and along the Ecoroute Variable Hawk ( Geranoaetus polyosoma )—1 hovering bird was seen near the Calacalí gas station; another one was seen soaring distantly from the same gas station White-throated Hawk (Buteo albigula )—1 soaring bird was seen at ‘Los Loros Locos’— Victor Emanuel Nature Tours 9 Tandayapa Pre-trip to Galapagos Cruise, 2019 this is most probably an austral migrant

TROGONS & QUETZALS: TROGONIDAE Golden-headed Quetzal (Pharomachrus auriceps )—1 male flew by a group of us at Alambi; another 1 was seen at Séptimo Paraíso by Roger and Christine; others H at Séptimo on two days Chocó Trogon (Trogon comptus )—Aka Blue-tailed Trogon by some authors; a pair of this Chocó bioregional endemic was H at Milpe Masked Trogon (Trogon personatus )—H at Séptimo Paraíso on two mornings

MOTMOTS: MOMOTIDAE Rufous Motmot ( Baryphthengus martii )—H on two mornings at Séptimo Paraíso

BARBETS: CAPITONIDAE Red-headed Barbet (Eubucco bourcierii )—3 were seen at Alambi feeders; another 3 were seen at ‘Casa Rolando’; others H; one Alambi bird was a juvenile male, with dull red face, crown olive-orange, much like female, bill yellowish

TOUCANS: RAMPHASTIDAE Plate-billed Mountain-Toucan (Andigena laminirostris )—We finally got to see this spectacular emblematic Chocó bioregional endemic species. First a group of 5 came in silently along the Paseo del Quinde Ecoroute; then 2 a pair was seen later that same afternoon at Bellavista Pale-mandibled Araçari (Pteroglossus erythropygius )—Considered a race of Collared Araçari (P. torquatus ) by some authors. 5 were seen at Milpe Bird Sanctuary; 2-3 at the plantain feeders Chestnut-mandibled Toucan (Ramphastos swainsonii )—Aka Yellow-throated Toucan ( R. ambiguus ) by some authors when considered a race along with Black-mandibled Toucan ( R. ambiguus ). H, then 1 was seen at Séptimo Paraíso Chocó Toucan (Ramphastos brevis )—A pair of this Chocó bioregional endemic were seen at and near Milpe feeders; nearly identicle to the larger Chestnut-mandibled Toucan

WOODPECKERS: PICIDAE Powerful Woodpecker (Campephilus pollens )—1 male was seen fairly close-up at ‘Casa Rolando’ Golden-olive Woodpecker ( Colaptes rubiginosus )—A pair came in to plantain feeders at Alambi—nice looks!

FALCONS & CARACARAS: FALCONIDAE American Kestrel ( Falco sparverius )—1 was seen by a few of the group at Hotel Quito

PARROTS & MACAWS: PSITTACIDAE Barred Parakeet ( Bolborhynchus lineaola )—A high-flying flock of 15 were H and seen above Séptimo Paraíso; generally scarce and difficult to see well Red-billed Parrot ( Pionus sordidus )—H at Séptimo Paraíso, then 8 were seen, at least a couple in excellent light, along the Ecoroute Bronze-winged Parrot ( Pionus chalcopterus )—2 seen in flight at Milpe; 18 more seen in flight over Séptimo Paraíso

Victor Emanuel Nature Tours 10 Tandayapa Pre-trip to Galapagos Cruise, 2019 TYPICAL ANTBIRDS: THAMNOPHILIDAE Great Antshrike (Taraba major )—H at Séptimo Paraíso; a first record for this site, and a high elevation for the species in NW Ecuador Zeledon’s Antbird ( Hafferia zeledoni )—H at Séptimo Paraíso

ANTPITTAS: GRALLARIIDAE Giant Antpitta ( Grallaria gigantea )—H at ‘Los Loros Locos’ Chestnut-crowned Antpitta (Grallaria ruficapilla )—H also at ‘Los Loros Locos’

ANTTHRUSHES: FORMICARIIDAE Rufous-breasted Antthrush ( Formicarius rufipectus )—H at Séptimo Paraíso

OVENBIRDS & WOODCREEPERS: FURNARIIDAE Spotted Woodcreeper ( Xiphorhynchus erythropygius )—2 seen at Milpe; also H at Séptimo Paraíso Montane Woodcreeper ( Lepidocolaptes lacrymiger )—Several seen (9 in all) daily; at most sites Plain Xenops ( Xenops minutus )—1 seen with a small mixed –species foraging flock at Milpe Streaked Tuftedcheek (Pseudocolaptes boisseauttii )—1 seen well with a small mixed- species foraging flock along the Ecoroute Pacific Hornero ( Furnarius cinnamomeus )—Considered a race of Pale-legged Hornero ( F. leucopus ) of Amazonia by some authors. 2 were seen at ‘Casa Rolando’ Buff-fronted Foliage-gleaner ( Philydor rufum )—H at Milpe Lineated Foliage-gleaner (Syndactyla subalaris )—1 was seen by a few of us (also H) at ‘Los Loros Locos’ with a small mixed-species foraging flock Streak-capped Treehunter (Thripadectes virgaticeps )—1 flew across the entrance drive at ‘Los Loros Locos’ Rusty-winged Barbtail (Premnornis gutuligera )—1 of this rather scarce mantane species was seen with a small mixed-species foraging flock at ‘Los Loros Locos’ Red-faced Spinetail ( Cranioleuca erythrops )—1-2 seen o non three days at Séptimo Paraíso

TYRANT FLYCATCHERS: TYRANNIDAE Torrent Tyrannulet ( Serpophaga cinerea )—1 seen along the stream at Alambi Marble-faced Bristle-Tyrant ( Pogonotriccus ophthalmicus )—1 was seen on our lñast morning at Séptimo Paraíso Ornate Flycatcher (Myiotriccus ornatus )—1-2 seen at Séptimo Paraíso Scale-crested Pygmy-Tyrant ( Lophotriccus pileatus )—H a few times; 1 seen at Milpe Cinnamon Flycatcher (Pyrrhomyias cinnamomeus )—1 seen along the Ecoroute Smoke-colored Pewee ( Contopus fumigatus )—1 seen at Séptimo Paraíso on two days; another was encoutered along the Ecoroute Dusky-capped Flycatcher (Myiarchus tuberculifer )—H at Alambi; 1 seen well on our last morning at Séptimo Paraíso Rusty-margined Flycatcher ( Myiozetetes cayanensis )—1 seen at Alambi; at least 2 were encountered at Milpe; also H mostly at Séptimo Paraíso Golden-crowned Flycatcher (Myiodynastes chrysocephalus )—1 was seen well at Alambi, along the stream; singles were encountered at ‘Los Loros Locos’ and Bellavista Tropical Kingbird ( Tyrannus melancholicus )—Singles seen on three days along the Victor Emanuel Nature Tours 11 Tandayapa Pre-trip to Galapagos Cruise, 2019 Ecoroute and en route to Milpe Bird Sanctuary

COTINGAS: COTINGIDAE Andean Cock-of-the-rock (Rupicola peruvianus )—1 female on her nest was seen under the bridge at Alambi

MANAKINS: PIPRIDAE Club-winged Manakin (Machaeropterus deliciosus )—Single males were seen in display on two days at Séptimo Paraíso (also H there)!!

TITYRAS & ALLIES: TITYRIDAE Cinnamon Becard ( Pachyramphus cinnamomeus )—H at Séptimo Paraíso One-colored Becard (Pachyramphus homochrous )—1 male was seen at Séptimo Paraíso

VIREOS, SHRIKE-BABBLERS & ERPORNIS: VIREONIDAE Brown-capped Vireo ( Vireo leucophrys )—2 seen at Séptimo Paraíso (also H); Singles seen at ‘Los Loros Locos’ and at Bellavista Chivi Vireo ( Vireo chivi )—Now split from Red-eyed Vireo. 1-2 seen at Milpe; another at Séptimo Paraíso

CROWS, JAYS & MAGPIES: CORVIDAE Beautiful Jay ( Cyanolyca pulchra )—H along the Ecoroute; a generally rare Chocó bioregional endemic species Turquoise Jay (Cyanolyca turcosa )—2 were seen at ‘Los Loros Locos’

SWALLOWS: HIRUNDINIDAE Blue-and-white Swallow ( Pygochelidon cyanoleuca )—The most common and widespread swallow in Ecuador; several were encountered daily

WRENS: TROGLODYTIDAE House Wren ( Troglodytes aedon )—Formally, South American populations were considered a separate species—Southern House Wren ( T. musculus ), and probably should continue to be considered that way, though that too may well be an oversimplification. H daily; singles were seen at Séptimo Paraíso Mountain Wren ( Troglodytes solstitialis )—Singles were seen at ‘Los Loros Locos’ and at Bellavista Bay Wren ( Cantorchilus nigricapillus )—A pair was seen by Roger and Christine at Séptimo Paraíso Gray-breasted Wood-Wren (Henicorhina leucophrys )—H often throughout; 1-2 seen well at Séptimo Paraíso on two days

DIPPERS: CINCLIDAE White-capped Dipper (Cinclus leucocephalus )—1 was encountered along the stream by part of our group, at Alambi

THRUSHES & ALLIES: TURDIDAE Andean Solitaire ( Myadestes ralloides )—H along the Ecoroute Ecuadorian Thrush (Turdus maculirostris )—H at Septimo Paraíso on two days; 1 was Victor Emanuel Nature Tours 12 Tandayapa Pre-trip to Galapagos Cruise, 2019 seen at ‘Casa Rolando’ feeders Great Thrush ( Turdus fuscater )—Generally common in the highlands, especially around Quito; also at San José de Puembo

FINCHES, EUPHONIAS & ALLIES: FRINGILLIDAE Thick-billed Euphonia ( Euphonia laniirostris )—5 or so seen at Alambi feeders; at least 8 seen at ‘Casa Rolando’ feeders Orange-bellied Euphonia ( Euphonia xanthogaster )—At least a pair was seen at Alambi feeders; 7 or so were seen at ‘Casa Rolando’ and MIlpe Bird Sanctuary; 3 more at ‘Los Loros Locos’ feeders

NEW WORLD SPARROWS: PASSERELLIDAE Yellow-throated Chlorospingus ( Chlorospingus flavigularis )—Formally called ‘Bush- Tanager’, and perhaps that name should still stand, but no longer considered a member of the tanager family. 3 were seen at Séptimo Paraíso on our first afternoon; about 8 were encountered at MIlpe Black-striped Sparrow ( Arremonops conirostris )—1 showed up briefly at ‘Casa Rolando’ Chestnut-capped Brushfinch (Arremon brunneinucha )—1 was seen by Roger and Christine at Séptimo Paraíso Rufous-collared Sparrow ( Zonotrichia capensis )—Common species throughout the Andes, especially in the highlands; several were seen daily at various sites Chocó Brushfinch (Atlapetes crassus )—Formally lumped with Tricolored Brushfinch (A. tricolor ), and often still considered so by some authors. 1 was seen on our last morning at Septimo Paraíso

TROUPIALS & ALLIES: ICTERIDAE Shiny Cowbird ( Molothrus bonariensis )—1 male was seen at Alambi Scrub Blackbird ( Dives warczewiczi )—1 was seen twice at ‘Casa Rolando’ feeders

NEW WORLD WARBLERS: PARULIDAE Tropical Parula ( Setophaga pitiayumi )—1, then at least 3 were seen at Séptimo Paraíso on two days Three-striped Warbler ( Basileuterus tristriatus )—3 were seen well at Septimo Paraíso Buff-rumped Warbler ( Myiothlypis fulvicauda )—H (loud ringing song) at Milpe Russet-crowned Warbler ( Myiothlypis coronata )—3 seen at ‘Los Loros Locos’; 2 more seen closely at Bellavista Slate-throated Whitestart ( Myioborus miniatus )— Also called ‘Redstart’ by many authors though the species shows NO red! 2-4 seen daily, at Alambi, Séptimo Paraíso, Milpe, and Bellavista (perhaps elsewhere) Spectacled Whitestart (Myioborus melanocephalus )—2 were seen, one up close, along the Ecoroute

Victor Emanuel Nature Tours 13 Tandayapa Pre-trip to Galapagos Cruise, 2019

Russet-crowned Warbler ©Michael O’Brien

CARDINALS & ALLIES: CARDINALIDAE Ochre-breasted Tanager (Chlorothraupis stolzmanni )—No longer considered a tanager. Although rather dull in plumaje, this Chocó bioregional endemic species is still special. 1 or so was seen with a small mixed-species foraging flock at Milpe

TANAGERS & ALLIES: THRAUPIDAE White-line Tanager ( Tachyphonus rufus )—Pairs were seen at Alambi and ‘Casa Rolando’ feeders; 1 female was seen at Séptimo Paraíso on our last morning Lemon-rumped Tanager ( Ramphocelus icteronotus )—Considered a race of Flame-rumped Tanager ( R. flammigerus) by some authors. A common species of the western lowlands and foothills; many seen daily, at Séptimo Paraíso, ‘Casa Rolando’ and Milpe Blue-winged Mountain-Tanager (Anisognathus somptuosus )—Seen on all three days; 1 was seen at ‘Casa Rolando’ feeders; 2 encountered at ‘Los Loros Locos’, and best at Bellavista néctar where about 5 came in to their néctar feeders Blue-gray Tanager ( Thraupis episcopus )—Between 3-6 or so were seen daily, mostly at ‘Casa Rolando’ feeders, but also at Milpe and Séptimo Paraíso Palm Tanager ( Thraupis palmarum )—Between 1-4 or so were seen daily, as with the previous species Golden-naped Tanager (Tangara ruficervix )—1-2 or so were seen at Alambi, Casa Rolando, and ‘Los Loros Locos’ Black-capped Tanager (Tangara heinei )—3 or so were seen well and repeatedly at ‘Casa Rolando’ Blue-necked Tanager (Tangara cyanicollis )—A nesting pair, especially, were ‘studied’ on three days at Séptimo Paraíso’ Beryl-spangled Tanager (Tangara nigroviridis )—3 of this, just another, stunning tanager Victor Emanuel Nature Tours 14 Tandayapa Pre-trip to Galapagos Cruise, 2019 were seen at Séptimo Paraíso and 4 more along the Ecoroute and ‘Los Loros Locos’ Bay-headed Tanager (Tangara gyrola )—1 was seen at Séptimo Paraíso on our first afternoon Flame-faced Tanager (Tangara parzudakii )—A beautiful pair came briefly to ‘Los Loros Locos’ plantain feeders Golden Tanager (Tangara arthus )—Rather common; seen daily; 10 or so at Alambi and Séptimo Paraíso on our first day; another 10, at least, at ‘Casa Rolando’ and Milpe on our second day, and 2 at ‘Los Loros Locos’ on our last day Silver-throated Tanager (Tangara icterocephala )—4 were seen at Alambi; another 4 at Milpe Swallow Tanager ( Tersina viridis )—A beautiful pair was seen briefly at Séptimo Paraíso Green Honeycreeper ( Chlorophanes spiza )—1 female seen at Milpe feeders Cinereous Conebill ( Conirostrum cinereum )—4-5 were seen Hotel Quito on our first morning White-sided Flowerpiercer ( Diglossa albilatera )—A pair was seen around Bellavista feeders Masked Flowerpiercer (Diglossa cyanea )—1 adult and a (dark-eyed) juvenile were seen up- close at Bellavista Plushcap (Catamblyrhynchus diadema )—A pair of this scarce species was seen with a small mixed-species foraging flock at ‘Los Loros Locos’ Variable Seedeater (Sporophila corvina )—1 male was seen at Séptimo Paraíso, from the van Band-tailed Seedeater ( Catamenia analis )—4 seen in an overgrown lot across from the Bananaquit ( Coereba flaveola )—Pairs were seen at Alambi and Milpe nectar feeders Buff-throated Saltator ( Saltator maximus )—2-3 were seen on three days (others H) Alambi, Séptimo Paraíso, and ‘Casa Rolando’ Black-winged Saltator (Saltator atripennis )—H at Séptimo Paraíso

MAMMALS

SQUIRRELS: SCIURIDAE Red-tailed Squirrel ( Sciurus granatensis )—Pairs were seen on two days, at Alambi and ‘Casa Rolando’; another was seen at ‘Los Loros Locos’

AGOUTIS & ACOUCHIS: DAYPROCTIDAE Central American Agouti ( Dasyprocta punctata )—2-3 were seen at Séptimo Paraíso; another 3 at Milpe

DEER: CERVIDAE Red Brocket-Deer ( Mazama americana )—1 pregnant female was seen by Roger and Christine at Séptimo Paraíso

Victor Emanuel Nature Tours 15 Tandayapa Pre-trip to Galapagos Cruise, 2019

Central American Agouti © Ken Trease

Victor Emanuel Nature Tours 16 Tandayapa Pre-trip to Galapagos Cruise, 2019