CRUISE A BIRDING AND NATURAL HISTORY ODYSSEY ABOARD ZAFIRO [L IMA LIST INCLUDED AT END ]

FEBRUARY 21–MARCH 3, 2019

Spectacled Owl. Pulsatrix perspicillata. Photo: D. Ascanio.

LEADERS : DAVID ASCANIO , STEVE HILTY & ANDREW WHITTAKER IE’S NATURALIST : ANGEL CÁRDENAS SHIP NATURALISTS : DANIEL VASQUEZ , JUAN TEJADA & SEGUNDO MESIA

LIST COMPILED BY : DAVID ASCANIO

VICTOR EMANUEL NATURE TOURS, INC. 2525 WALLINGWOOD DRIVE , SUITE 1003 AUSTIN , TEXAS 78746 WWW.VENTBIRD .COM

AMAZON RIVER CRUISE A BIRDING AND NATURAL HISTORY ODYSSEY February 21–March 3, 2019 By David Ascanio

Photo album: https://www.flickr.com/photos/davidascanio/albums/72157707657587004

Our Amazon Cruise started on the opposite side of the , on the Pacific coast of . Our first stop was in the famous Pantanos de Villa , a wetland where rangers and conservationists have been holding a long fight against summer-house investors and squatters to protect a that hosts an amazing number of resident and migrant alike. We were astonished by the clouds (yes, these were virtually uncountable clouds) of Franklin’s Gulls (boreal migrant), dozens of Black Skimmers (local migrants from the Amazon region), a single Gray Gull (austral migrant), Belcher’s and Kelp gulls, the gorgeous White- tufted Grebe, and the endangered Peruvian Thick- knee (endemic to the arid strip coast of the Pacific Ocean). Later, we drove further south to the picturesque village of Pucusana, where we boarded two boats to see the birdlife attracted by the cold waters of the Humboldt Current. We were rewarded with views of five Humboldt Penguins molting (Andrew Whittaker explained later during recap that the complete molt will take at least three weeks), endemic Peruvian Boobies and Peruvian Pelicans, Blackish and American oystercatchers, Blue-footed Booby (colonizing this area and only seen here since a few years ago), Surf Cinclodes (endemic), and the super beautiful Inca Tern.

After a fruitful full day on the coast of Peru, we took a flight across the Andes to the city of Iquitos, the capital of the department of Loreto, in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon. As we crossed the Andes, I realized that in just an hour and a half we had reached the Amazon. This same journey took a year of travel in extreme conditions for the conquistadores in search of the famous El Dorado. But for us, the riches were found above the ground, where a complicated network of rivers has shaped what today is the most complex biome in the world. A short session of birding in the promenade introduced us to some of the common bird , including the always beautiful Purple-throated Euphonia, Palm and Blue-gray , Yellow- browed Sparrow, and Black-billed Thrush. A distant Fork-tailed Flycatcher turned out to be a good record since it is considered a rare species in the Peruvian Amazon. In the late afternoon we embarked Zafiro, and with views of an astonishing sunset filled with reds, oranges, yellows, and pinks, we started sailing the mysterious Amazon River.

Victor Emanuel Nature Tours 2 Amazon River Cruise, 2019

The first full day found us in Tahuayo, a tributary of the Amazon. As soon as we were on the skiffs, the three groups were enjoying a wealth of birds, from to tyrant-flycatchers, tanagers, and . This location has become a reliable place to look for Black-tailed , which we nailed well. This antbird is a bird whose voice was unknown probably until two decades ago. In the afternoon, we learned about the basics of River Island dynamics and thus, the process of speciation in bird species that are nowadays called “River Island Specialists.” Because we had learned about these specialists, the afternoon outing focused on the river island, and our efforts turned productive with views of Dark-breasted and Parker’s spinetails, Olive-spotted Hummingbird, Black-and-white Antbird, and Orange-headed . The day closed with an impressive storm in the distance with the gray clouds moving at an unimaginable speed.

The following day opened with clouds of contrasting colors, from orange to yellow and gray, and a bright yellow ball rising on the horizon. In the Yarapa River we enjoyed seeing Black- throated Antbird, various species of , and an amazing array of tyrant-flycatchers (including the bumble- looking Yellow-browed Tody-Flycatcher and the inconspicuous Olivaceous Flatbill). Of special interest was a Sunbittern photographed from one of the skiffs and four species of reported by another one. The number of bird families seen today seemed endless and included hawks, falcons, , tanagers, dacnises, hummingbirds, orioles, and . In the afternoon we crossed the junction of the Amazon’s two main tributaries (where this mighty river starts), and we were now inside a protected area. After a well-deserved siesta, we learned about the Pacaya-Samiria Reserve by Juan Tejada, followed by a meeting with Angel to trace the ship’s route using our maps. In the afternoon we visited a narrow channel where an unidentified species of swift was observed flying over our heads, as well as Cocoi Heron, Cinnamon-throated , Scarlet-crowned Barbet (nesting), Dusky-headed Parakeet (also nesting), and a nice male Bare-necked Fruitcrow.

Victor Emanuel Nature Tours 3 Amazon River Cruise, 2019

The following day was filled with great expectations. In previous years we had slowed down the ship’s speed because in this stretch of the river, the current was cutting a large moriche palm (Mauritia flexulosa) stand, and the number of dead palms allowed us to see macaws, parrots, and parakeets roosting, or to watch a breeding site. With great surprise we noticed that all of the palms were gone and that the river current had cut a great deal of its bank. Still, some macaws remained in the area, and we enjoyed pairs of Blue-and-yellow Macaws as well as more than a hundred Red-bellied Macaws. We also nailed Orange-winged, Festive, and Yellow- crowned parrots, along with loose flocks of Tui Parakeets and large and compact flocks of White-winged Parakeets flying in the distance. A challenge to all was to see a pair of White- browed . An easier task was to enjoy a close pair of Capped Herons. There were also flocks of Eastern Kingbirds (boreal migrant) and Fork-tailed Flycatchers (austral migrants). Later, we visited a river called Yanashpa (or Yanallpa, in Quechua), which happened to be a great birding location in the past, and this year was no exception! All three skiffs reported a feast of Amazonian birds, and a sampling included Paradise and Green-and-gold tanagers, Blue and Yellow-bellied dacnises, Lemon-throated and Scarlet-crowned barbets, Moustached and Pygmy antwrens, Black-crested and Fasciated antshrikes, and much more. We also observed a group of Saki Monkeys as well as a family of the always-active Saddleback Tamarin. After the siesta, the day continued with Steve Hilty’s presentation about “Amazon Biodiversity.” Later, we visited an oxbow lake called Yuracocha (Uracocha), where we were delighted with views of the bizarre Hoatzin, as well as a large number of Eastern Kingbirds and a roost containing Neotropic Cormorants and Great Egrets. Another impressive sunset with golden, orange, and yellow colors gave way to the night, with large fishing-bats that were foraging over the vast river.

Victor Emanuel Nature Tours 4 Amazon River Cruise, 2019

Continuing upstream, on Wednesday we stopped in another location, a wide and large channel called Zapote that connects two parts of the Ucayali. Although part of the Pacaya-Samiria reserve, lumbering continues to be a serious threat in this area. Despite that much of the emergent trees have been taken down, understory life remains active, and we were able to see Band-tailed Antbird and Cinnamon-throated Woodcreeper. Zapote has also been known in previous years as a good site for seeing raptors, and we nailed Slate-colored Hawk, Gray- headed Kite, Great Black Hawk, and Slender-billed and Snail kites. But the great surprise was seeing a Spectacled Owl during the daytime! We also enjoyed views of Pink-footed Tarantula and two species of primates, the Monk Saki Monkey and the Saddleback Tamarin. To close a wonderful morning, we also had great opportunities to photograph Cream-colored and Spot- breasted woodpeckers nesting. In the afternoon, we learned about “Superstitious Tales of the Amazon,” and later we again birded Yanashpa Creek until it got dark.

Having been in the furthest away location of our route, we started moving downstream, and our following stop was in a previously visited tributary, Yarapa. Since we had birded the lower part of this river some days ago, we decided to explore the areas further inside this wonderful tributary. The morning started very active, with Paradise and Green-and-gold tanagers, a Elaenia singing, and Blue and Yellow-bellied dacnises accompanying a feeding flock. Some of us got astonishing views of a singing Sungrebe, and others nailed Dusky Titi Monkeys. There were Horned Screamers testing their loud voices, trogons delivering a rather softer call, Black-fronted Nunbirds sounding like car alarms, barbets and aracaris seeking fruiting trees, parrots and parakeets commuting to their foraging grounds, and a pair of the uncommon Paradise perched atop a bare branch of a tree. It was a birder’s paradise! Once we reached the junction of the Ucayali and Marañon rivers (where the Amazon starts), we went upstream the Marañon for some distance. In the afternoon, we walked short trails where we added Amazonian and Rufous motmots and Yellow-billed Jacamar, and also heard tinamous singing in the distance.

Victor Emanuel Nature Tours 5 Amazon River Cruise, 2019

Our last full day in the Amazon found us in Yanayacu de Pucate where our efforts paid off well. We added to our field checklist Tropical Gnatcatcher, , a female Black-throated Mango, and White-shouldered Antshrike. In the late morning, some participants decided to visit a local community where they learned about life in the Amazon—their diet, challenges, and architecture—and met families and their kids. In the afternoon we enjoyed a lecture about “Figures and Facts of the Amazon” and later explored a series of channels contiguous to terra firme forest called Quebrada Iquitos . In this location we noticed the reverberating voice of the Pale-legged Hornero, and with wonderful light we got to see a group of Masked Crimson Tanagers calling.

On our last morning in the Amazon there was a heavy storm at 04:00 AM. But we were determined not to miss our very last field trip. So, as soon as the clouds cleared up, we loaded the skiffs and visited a river island near Iquitos. Everyone got great views of River Tyrannulet and Lesser Wagtail Tyrant, as well as Black-and-white Antbird and Parker’s Spinetail. This island was another reminder of the extremely sophisticated fauna of the Amazon and a call for us to help preserve this biome as a whole. Who could forget the majestic Long-billed Woodcreeper or the heavy downpours during siesta time? How about the magical sunrises, the dramatic sunsets, or the incredible congregations of birds going to roost? All these questions can be answered in words, but the way we digested it—by seeing and learning from exposing ourselves to the unforgettable Amazon River—was much more rewarding!

Now that you have learned about the Amazonian flora, fauna, and history, I want to invite you to join us in other destinations, equally interesting and beautiful but remarkably different from this biome. Some are:

Cuba: Birds and people

Victor Emanuel Nature Tours 6 Amazon River Cruise, 2019

Cuba has always been on the bucket-list for Americans. Until recently it was only a dream to go there. Not anymore! We visit three major regions and look for most of the endemic birds including the Bee Hummingbird, the world’s smallest bird. Photos and video in: Photo album (2019 tour): https://www.flickr.com/photos/davidascanio/sets/72157678801669518 Video link (2016 tour): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ylRHvB1jzdI

Costa Rica: a relaxed and easy tour. Our relaxed and easy Costa Rica tour is for those who wish to bird various altitudinal levels, from cloud forest to lowland rain forest, at a slow pace. We include a ride along the aerial tram, and besides seeing birds we also learn about the other wildlife of this spectacular country. This tour is designed for seeing tanagers and honeycreepers, as well as many hummingbirds. For that, we visit various hummingbird feeder stations. See the photos and video of our 2018 in: Photo album (2018 tour): https://www.flickr.com/photos/davidascanio/albums/72157675954896128 Video link (2016 tour): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mzgD6NfVNSE

Adventure in the Llanos of A wildlife reserve in the heart of the plains or llanos of the , in Colombia. Great photo opportunities and encounters with astonishing Jabiru, Orinoco Goose, and dozens of Scarlet Ibis. We bird different in a safari truck and explore the gallery forest along a trail. Depending on water levels, we might be able to explore the river as well. Photo album (2019 tour): https://www.flickr.com/photos/davidascanio/albums/72157689203918033

Thank you for joining us!

Victor Emanuel Nature Tours 7 Amazon River Cruise, 2019

LOCATIONS: 1: Tahuayo. 2: Lucero Pata. 3: Yarapa. 4: Sapuenilla. 5: Yanallpa (pronounced Ya-nash-pa). 6: Yuracocha (Uracocha). 7: Zapote. 8: Puerto Prado. 9: Yanayacu de Pucate / Iquitos creek.

Victor Emanuel Nature Tours 8 Amazon River Cruise, 2019

ITINERARY: 21 Feb. 2019. Arrival to Peru. 22 Feb. 2019. Lima area: Pantanos de Villa, Pucusana. 23 Feb. 2019. Flight to Iquitos. Birding the Amazon from the ship´s upper deck. Amazon river. 24 Feb. 2019. Tahuayo, Lucero Pata. 25 Feb. 2019. Yarapa river, Sapuenilla. 26 Feb. 2019. Yanallpa, Yuracocha (Uracocha). 27 Feb. 2019. Zapote, Yanallpa (night outing). 28 Feb. 2019. Yarapa, Puerto Prado. 01 Mar. 2019. Yanayacu de Pucate, Iquitos creek. 02 Mar. 2019. Itaia river islands (Iquitos). Flight to Lima. 03 Mar. 2019. Departure.

HABITATS: RF. Riverine forest. Includes all kind of forest at sides of rivers, either in black water rivers (igapó) or white-water rivers (varzea) as well as natural channels and oxbow lakes. MH. Marsh. SW. Swamp. TF. Terra firme forest. FM. Farmland. RV. River, river edge and floodplains. RI. Sedimentary river island. SG. Secondary growth.

BIRDS

Tinamous, Tinamidae Great Tinamou, Tinamus major. Heard only. RF, TF. Cinereous Tinamou, Crypturellus cinereus. Heard only. TF. Undulated Tinamou, Crypturellus undulatus. Heard only. RF.

Screamers, Anhimidae Horned Screamer, Anhima cornuta . MH.

Ducks & Geese, Anatidae Muscovy Duck, Cairina moschata. RF, MH.

Guans and Chachalacas, Cracidae Speckled Chachalaca, Ortalis guttata. RF. Razor-billed Curassow. Mitu tuberosum. RF.

Pigeons & Doves, Columbidae Feral Pigeon (Rock Pigeon), Columba livia. Iquitos. Pale-vented Pigeon, Patagioenas cayennensis. RF. Plumbeous Pigeon. Patagioenas plumbea. RF. Ruddy Pigeon, Columba subvinacea. RF. White-tipped Dove, Leptotila verreauxi. RF at edge of FM.

Victor Emanuel Nature Tours 9 Amazon River Cruise, 2019

Gray-fronted Dove. Leptotila rufaxilla. RF.

Cuckoos, Cuculidae Greater Ani, Crotophaga major. RF, SW. Smooth-billed Ani, Crotophaga ani. MH, FM. Striped Cuckoo. Tapera naevia. MH. Little Cuckoo, Piaya minuta . RF. Cuckoo. Piaya cayana. RF.

Nightjars & Allies, Caprimulgidae The nighthawks and nightjars were observed either on the roost, one species migrating at day time or during the night outing. Sand-colored Nighthawk, Chordeiles rupestris. RF. Seen briefly by some participants. Common Pauraque. Nyctidromus albicollis. RF. Ladder-tailed Nightjar, Hydropsalis climacocerca. RF, SW.

Potoos, Nyctibiidae Common Potoo, Nyctibius griseus. RF. Seen after playback.

Swifts, Apodidae Black Swift. Cypseloides niger. Andy’s photos might represent the first solid evidence of the presence of this swift in Peru. Seen only by those that were in his skiffs. Way to go, Andy! Chimney Swift. Chaetura pelagica. Unconfirmed record of half dozen individuals in Yarapa. We concluded it might have been this species given size, behavior and contrasts. Short-tailed Swift, Chaetura brachyura. RF. Lesser Swallow-tailed Swift. Panyptila cayennensis. RF. Fork-tailed (Neotropical) Palm-Swift, Tachornis (Reinarda) squamata. RF, Moriche palm stands, FM with presence of palm trees.

Hummingbirds, Trochilidae White-necked Jacobin. Florisuga mellivora. RF. Rufous-breasted Hermit. Glaucis hirsutus. RF. Reddish Hermit. Phaethornis ruber. RF. Black-throated Mango, Anthracothorax nigricollis. RF. Long-billed Starthroat. Heliomaster longirostris. RF. Blue-tailed Emerald. Chlorostilbon mellisugus. RF. Blue-chinned Sapphire. Chlorestes notata. RF. Fork-tailed Woodnymph. Thalurania furcata. RF. Olive-spotted Hummingbird, Leucippus chlorocercus. RI. Glittering-throated Emerald, Amazilia fimbriata. FM, edge of RF. Rufous-throated Sapphire. Hylocharis sapphirina. RF. White-chinned Sapphire. Hylocharis cyanus. RF.

Hoatzin, Opisthocomidae Hoatzin, Opisthocomus hoazin. Observed in Yuracocha. This is one of the most fascinating bird species in our planet. The Hoatzin has a long crop that function as a rumen to allow digest poisonous leaves. It was believed to be a relative with the Tinamidae and later with the Cracidae, Rallidae, Otididae, Pteroclidae, Columbidae, Colidae, Cariamidae, and Cuculidae . It is now

Victor Emanuel Nature Tours 10 Amazon River Cruise, 2019 believed to be a very old lineage with a long evolutionary history and no close living relatives. Its taxonomical position has been greatly debated and apparently, remains unclear.

Rails and Gallinules, Rallidae Gray-cowled Wood-Rail. Aramides cajaneus. RI. Purple Gallinule, Porphyrio martinica. MH. Azure Gallinule. Porphyrio flavirostris. MH.

Finfoots & Sungrebe, Heliornithidae Sungrebe, Heliornis fulica. RF. What a wonderful view we obtained from one of the skiffs. We enjoyed views of a male swimming (and singing) right in front of the skiffs!

Jacanas, Jacanidae Wattled Jacana, Jacana jacana. MH, RV on floating vegetation.

Sandpipers & allies, Scolopacidae Spotted Sandpiper, Actitis macularius. RV on floating vegetation and logs. Greater Yellowlegs. Tringa melanoleuca. RV.

Gulls & Terns, Laridae Yellow-billed Tern, Sternula superciliaris. RV. Frequently found in shallow water or rivers ithout much current. Large-billed Tern, Phaetusa simplex. RV.

Sunbittern, Eurypygidae Sunbittern, Eurypyga helias. RF.

Anhinga, Anhingidae Anhinga, Anhinga anhinga . RV.

Cormorants, Phalacrocoracidae Neotropic Cormorant, Phalacrocorax brasilianus. MH, RV.

Herons & Egrets, Ardeidae Zigzag Heron, Zebrilus undulatus . Heard only. RV. Rufescent Tiger-Heron. Tigrisoma lineatum. MH. Cocoi Heron, Ardea cocoi. RV. Great Egret. Ardea alba. RV. Snowy Egret, Egretta thula. RV, MH. Striated Heron, Butorides striatus. RF, MH, RV, RI. Capped Heron, Pilherodius pileatus . RF, MH. Black-crowned Night-Heron, Nycticorax nycticorax. RF.

Ibises & Spoonbills, Threskiornithidae Green Ibis, Mesembrinibis cayennensis. RF.

New World Vultures, Cathartidae King Vulture. Sarcoramphus papa . Seen flying. RF.

Victor Emanuel Nature Tours 11 Amazon River Cruise, 2019

Black Vulture, Coragyps atratus. Turkey Vulture, Cathartes aura. We saw the resident race ruficollis. Lesser Yellow-headed Vulture, Cathartes burrovianus. MH. Greater Yellow-headed Vulture. Cathartes melambrotus. TF.

Osprey, Pandionidae Osprey, Pandion haliaetus. Boreal migrant. RF, SW, MH.

Hawk & Eagles, Accipitridae The Amazon has been a location where (consistently) we continue to report an amazing number of birds of prey. This time, we observed 13 species of Accipitridae. Hook-billed Kite. Chodrohierax uncinatus. RF. Gray-headed Kite. Leptodon cayanensis. RF. Black Hawk-Eagle. Spizaetus tyrannus. RF. Black-collared Hawk, Busarellus nigricollis. RF. Snail Kite, Rostrhamus sociabilis. MH. Slender-billed Kite, Rostrhamus sociabilis. RF. Plumbeous Kite, Ictinia plumbea. RF. Crane Hawk, Geranospiza caerulescens. MH, RF. Slate-colored Hawk, Leucopternis schistaceus. RF. Great Black Hawk, Buteogallus urubitinga. RF, SW, MH, FM. Roadside Hawk, Buteo magnirostris. Widespread in all kind of open habitats. Gray-lined Hawk, Buteo nitidus. RF. Short-tailed Hawk. Buteo brachyurus. RF.

Owls, Strigidae Spectacled Owl. Pulsatrix perspicillata. Superb views in night outing. RF. Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl, Glaucidium brasilianum. Heard frequently.

Trogons, Trogonidae Black-tailed , Trogon melanurus. RF. The commonest trogon in the Peruvian Amazon. Green-backed Trogon (a split from White-tailed Trogon), Trogon viridis. RF. Amazonian Trogon (a split from ), Trogon ramonianus. RF. Blue-crowned (Amazon) Trogon, Trogon curucui. RF. . Trogon collaris. RF.

Motmots, Momotidae Amazonian Motmot, Momotus momota. RF. Rufous Motmot. Barypthengus martii. TF (Puerto Prado).

Kingfishers, Alcedinidae Ringed Kingfisher, Ceryle torquata. RF, MH, SW. Amazon Kingfisher, Chloroceryle amazon. RF, MH, SW. American Pygmy Kingfisher, Chloroceryle aenea. RF. Green Kingfisher. Chloroceryle americana. RF. Green-ad-rufous Kingfisher. Chloroceryle inda. RF.

Puffbirds, Bucconidae

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Black-fronted Nunbird, Monasa nigrifrons. RF. Swallow-winged , Chelidoptera tenebrosa. TF contiguous to RF.

Jacamars, Galbulidae White-eared Jacamar, leucotis. RF. Yellow-billed Jacamar, albirostris. TF. Bluish-fronted Jacamar, Galbula cyanescens. RF. . Galbula dea. RF.

New World Barbets, Capitonidae Scarlet-crowned Barbet, Capito aurovirens. RF. Gilded Barbet, Capito auratus. TF. Lemon-throated Barbet, Eubucco richardsoni. RF.

Toucans, Ramphastidae Lettered Araçari, Pteroglossus inscriptus. RF. Chestnut-eared Araçari, Pteroglossus castanotis. RF. White-throated (Cuvier's) , Ramphastos cuvieri. RF. Channel-billed (Yellow-ridged) Toucan, Ramphastos vitellinus. RF.

Woodpeckers, Picidae Bar-breasted . Picxumnus aurifrons. RF. Plain-breasted Piculet, Picumnus castelnau . RI. Yellow-tufted Woodpecker, Melanerpes cruentatus. RF, TF. Little Woodpecker, Veniliornis . RI. Red-stained Woodpecker. Dryobates affinis. RF. Crimson-crested Woodpecker, Campephilus melanoleucos. RF, TF. This is a relative (same ) of the extinct Ivory-billed Woodpecker of North America. Lineated Woodpecker, Dryocopus lineatus. RF. Ringed Woodpecker. Celeus torquatus. RF. Scale-breasted Woodpecker. Celeus grammicus. RF. Cream-colored Woodpecker, Celeus flavus. RF. The commonest of the Celeus woodpeckers in the Peruvian Amazon. Chestnut Woodpecker, Celeus elegans. RF. A favorite for cruise participants! Yellow-throated Woodpecker, Piculus flavigula. RF. Spot-breasted Woodpecker, Colaptes (Chrysoptilus) punctigula. RF, TF.

Falcons and Caracaras, Falconidae Black Caracara, Daptrius ater. MH, RI. Red-throated Caracara, Ibycter americanus. RF. Yellow-headed Caracara, Milvago Chimachima . MH, RI, FM. Laughing Falcon, Herpetotheres cachinnans. RF. Bat Falcon, Falco rufigularis. RF.

Parrots & Parakeets, The Amazon is home for several macaws, parrots, parakeets and parrotlets. That’s why trappers used Iquitos as headquarters for the illegal trade several decades ago. At one point (back in the 60´s and 70´s), Iquitos became the largest pet-trade provider for many European

Victor Emanuel Nature Tours 13 Amazon River Cruise, 2019 countries. Populations were decimated and several species were almost wiped-out of the Peruvian map. Fortunately, that has changed. Nowadays, wildlife is legally protected and the government pays attention to it. As a result, we were fortunate to observe 20 species of this wonderful family during our Amazon Cruise. Tui Parakeet, sactithomae. RF, RI. White-winged Parakeet, Brotogeris versicolurus. RF. Cobalt-winged Parakeet, Brotogeris cyanoptera. RF, RI. Orange-cheeked Parrot, Pyrilia barrabandi. RF. Blue-headed Parrot, Pionus menstruus. RF. Short-tailed Parrot, Graydidascalus brachyurus. RF. This is the only parrot that was never decimated by the illegal traders back in time and it was probably due to its awful voice. Festive Parrot, Amazona festiva. RF. Yellow-crowned Parrot, Amazona ochrocephala. RF. Mealy Parrot, Amazona farinosa. RF. Orange-winged Parrot, Amazona amazonica. RF. The commonest Amazona parrot in the Peruvian Amazon. Blue-winged Parrotlet, Forpus xanthopterygius. RI. Black-headed Parrot, Pionites melanocephalus . RF. Rose-fronted Parakeet, Pyrrhura roseifrons. RF. Maroon-tailed Parakeet. Pyrrhura melanura. RF contiguous to TF. Dusky-headed Parakeet, Aratinga weddellii. RF. Red-bellied Macaw, Orthopsittaca manilata. RF, Moricha palm stands. Blue-and-yellow Macaw, Ara ararauna . RF. Scarlet Macaw, Ara macao. RF. Chestnut-fronted Macaw, Ara severus. FM, Moriche palm stand. White-eyed Parakeet, Aratinga leucophthalma. RF.

Antbirds, Thamnophilidae Fasciated Antshrike, lineatus. RF. Great Antshrike, Taraba major. Heard only. TF. Black-crested Antshrike, Sakesphorus canadensis. RF. Barred Antshrike, doliatus. RF, SG. Plain-winged Antshrike. Thamnophilus schistaceus. Heard only. TF contiguous to RF. Castelnau’s Antshrike, Thamnophilus cryptoleucus. RI. Found in areas packed with trees. Amazonian Antshrike, Thamnophilus amazonicus. RF. Spot-winged Antshrike, Pygiptila stellaris. RF. , brachyuran. RF. Moustached Antwren, Myrmotherula ignota. RF. Amazonian Streaked-Antwren, Myrmotherula multostriata. RF. White-flanked Antwren, Myrmotherula axillaris. Heard only. RF. Peruvian Warbling-Antbird, Hypocnemoides peruviana. Heard only. RF. Riparian Antbird, fuscicauda. RF with secondary growth. Previously called ( C. nigrescens ). Gray Antbird, cinerascens. RF. Black-tailed Antbird, Myrmoborus melanurus. RF. Band-tailed Antbird, Hypocnemoides maculicauda. RF. Black-and-white Antbird, Myrmochanes hemileucus. RI.

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Plumbeous Antbird, Myrmeciza hyperythra. RF. White-shouldered Antbird, Akletos melanoceps. RF. Black-throated Antbird, Myrmeciza atrothorax , Heard only. RF. Black-throated Bare-eye. Phlegopsis erythroptera. RF. Heard only.

Antthrushes, Formicariidae Black-faced Antthrush, Formicarius analis. RF. Heard only.

Ovenbirds, Sipnetails and , Furnariidae Olivaceous Woodcreeper, Sittasomus griseicapillus amazonus. TF contiguous to RF. Plain-brown Woodcreeper. Dendrocinchla fuliginosa. RF. Wedge-billed Woodcreeper. Glyphorynchus spirurus. TFF. Cinnamon-throated Woodcreeper, Dendrexetastes rufigula. RF. Long-billed Woodcreeper, Nasica longirostris. RF. Strong-billed Woodcreeper, Xiphocolaptes promeropirhynchus. Heard only. RF. Striped Woodcreeper, Xiphorhynchus obsoletus. RF. Buff-throated Woodcreeper, Xiphorhynchus guttatus. RF. Straight-billed Woodcreeper, Dendroplex picus. RF. Zimmer’s Woodcreeper, Xiphorhynchus kienerii. A target species in the Amazon. It was seen by all tour participants. RF. Red-billed Scythebill, Campyloramphus trochilirostris. RF. Duida Woodcreeper, Lepidocolaptes duidae. RF.

Slender-billed Xenops. Xenops tenuirostris . RF. Pale-legged Hornero, Furnarius leucopus. RF. Heard only. Pale-billed (Bay) Hornero, Furnarius torridus. Another hard-to-see species seen by all cruise participants. RF rich in Heliconia plants. Lesser Horner, Furnarius minor. Iquitos waterfront. Orange-fronted Plushcrown, Metopothrix aurantiaca. RI near Cecropia trees. Parker’s (White-breasted) Spinetail, vulpecula. RI. Speckled Spinetail, Cranioleuca gutturata. RF. Yellow-chinned Spinetail, Certhiaxis cinnamomea. Flooded grassland. A rare species in the Amazon. Seen by all cruise participants. Red-and-white Spinetail, Certhiaxis mustelina. This is one of the commonest but nevertheless most beautiful spinetail in Amazonia. MH. White-bellied Spinetail, Synallaxis propinqua. RI. Plain-crowned Spinetail, Synallaxis gujanensis. RV. Dark-breasted Spinetail, Synallaxis albigularis. RI.

Tyrant Flycatchers, Tyrannidae White-lored Tyrannulet. Ornithion inerme. RF. Southern Beardless-Tyrannulet, Camptostoma obsoletum. RF. Yellow-crowned Tyrannulet, Tyrannous elates. RF, SG. Forest Elaenia, Myiopagis gaimardii. RF. Yellow-crowned Elaenia, Myiopagis flavivertex. RF. River Tyrannulet, hypoleuca. RI. Slender-footed Tyrannulet. Zimmerius gracilipes. RF, TF. Lesser Wagtail-Tyrant, Stigmatura napensis . This distinctive habitat specialist was seen in

Victor Emanuel Nature Tours 15 Amazon River Cruise, 2019 pairs. RI. Double-banded Pygmy-Tyrant. Lophotriccus vitiosus. TF. Johanne’s Tody-Tyrant. Hemitriccus iohannis. RI. Edge of river in thick understory vegetation. Heard only. Rusty-fronted Tody-Tyrant, Poecilotriccus latirostris . RF. Spotted Tody-Tyrant, Todirostrum maculatum. SW, SG. Yellow-browed Tody-Flycatcher, Todirostrum chrysocrotaphum. RF. Olivaceous Flatbill, olivaceus. RF. Common voice at dawn in Yanallpa. Yellow-olive Flycatcher, Tolmomyias sulphurescens. This species is likely to be split in about five species. The we saw will probably be called Riverine Tolmomyias. RF. Yellow-margined Flycatcher, Tolmomyias assimilis. RF. Gray-crowned Flycatcher, Tolmomyias poliocephalus. RF. , Onycorhynchus coronatus. RF. Heard only. Ruddy-tailed Flycatcher, Terenotriccus erythrurus. RF. Fuscous Flycatcher, Cnemotriccus fuscatus. RI. Drab Water-Tyrant, Ochthornis littoralis. RI and river edge. White-headed Marsh-Tyrant, Arundinicola leucocephala. RI, floating vegetation and MH. Cinnamon , Attila cinnamomeus. RF. Dull-capped (White-eyed) Attila, Attila bolivianus . Heard only. RF. Bright-rumped Attila, Attila spadiceus. RF. Dusky-capped Flycatcher, Myiarchus tuberculifer. RF. Short-crested Flycatcher, Myiarchus ferox. RF, RI, FM. , Pitangus (Philohydor) lector. Edge of RF and floating vegetation contiguous to it. Often heard uttering its unique “squeeze-me” call of giving its duet with a soft and fast “kis-ka-dee!” , Pitangus sulphuratus. Forest edge, SG, FM, MH, SW. Boat-billed Flycatcher, Megarynchus pitangua. RF, RI near cecropia trees. Social Flycatcher, similis. Edge of RF, RI, MH, SW. Gray-capped Flycatcher, Myiozetetes granadensis. RF contiguous to TF. Three-striped Flycatcher, Conopias trivirgatus. RF. A nice study of a pair. Streaked Flycatcher. Myiodynastes maculatus. RF. Piratic Flycatcher, Legatus leucophaius. FM, edge of RF, Moriche palm stand. Sulphury Flycatcher. Tyrannopsis suphurea. Moriche palm stand, RF. White-throated Kingbird, Tyrannus albogularis . An early individual was seen only once. This is an austral migrant species. Tropical Kingbird, Common in open areas. Eastern Kingbird, Tyrannus tyrannus. A boreal migrant. Loose flocks in all locations. Frequently in RI and to less extend at edge of RF. Fork-tailed Flycatcher, Tyrannus savanna. MH, RI. About 50+ individuals were observed flying in a single loose flock.

Cotingas, Cotingidae Purple-throated Fruitcrow, Querula purpurata. RF. Amazonian Umbrellabird, Cephalopterus ornatus. RF and large patches of cecropia trees along rivers. We enjoyed superb views in a river island. Plum-throated , Cotinga maynana. RF. Bare-necked Fruitcrow, Gymnoderus foetidus. RF.

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Manakins, Pipridae Dwarf Tyrant-, Tyranneutes stolzmanni. Heard only. TF and RF contiguous to TF. Wire-tailed Manakin, Pipra filicauda. RF.

Tityras & allies, Tityridae Black-tailed , Tityra cayana. RF. Black-crowned Tityra. Tityra inquisitor. RF. , Tityra semifasciata. RF. Varzea (Greater) , Schiffornis major. RF, SW. White-browed , Iodopleura isabellae. RF. Cinereous , Pachyramphus rufus. RF. Chestnut-crowned Becard, Pachyramphus castaneus. RF contiguous to TF. White-winged Becard, Pachyramphus polychopterus. RF. Black-capped Becard. Pachyramphus marginatus. RF. Pink-throated Becard, Pachyramphus minor. RF.

Vireos & Greenlets, Vireonidae Rufous-browed Peppershirke, Cyclarhis gujanensis. RF. Gray-chested Greenlet, Hylophilus semicinereus. RF. Red-eyed (Chivi) Vireo, Vireo olivaceus (solimoensis). RF. The individuals we saw are probably of a resident population and it has been suggested to be named Chivi Vireo, Vireo chivi .

Crowns & Jays, Corvidae Violaceous Jay, Cyanocorax violaceus. RF.

Swallows & Martins, Hirundinidae Southern Rough-winged Swallow, Stelgidopteryx ruficollis. RV at edge of forest. Brown-chested Martin, Progne tapera. Open areas near FM and edge of open RF. Given plumage features, we assume that we saw both, the Austral migrant subspecies (fusca) and the resident subspecies (tapera). Austral migrant individuals will continue their flight northward to the Caribbean coast of . White-winged Swallow, Tachycineta albiventer. RV. Bank Swallow, Riparia riparia. RV, MH. Barn Swallow, Hirundo rustica. Floating vegetation in RV. MH.

Wrens, Troglodytidae Thrush-like , Campylorhynchus turdinus. RF. Coraya Wren, coraya. TF. Buff-breasted Wren, Thryothorus leucotis. RF.

Gnatcatchers, Polioptilidae Tropical Gnatcatcher, Polioptila plumbea. RI – edge with RF.

Donacobius, Donacobiidae Black-capped Donacobius, Donacobius atricapilla. Edge of MH. Infrequently at edge of RF. Being exposed to a long and controversial taxonomic history, this species was first believed to be a relative of the thrushes and the mockingbirds, and named Mockingthrush. Later, it was moved with the and renamed after its genus, Donacobius. Today, it is believed to be a distant

Victor Emanuel Nature Tours 17 Amazon River Cruise, 2019 relative of the old-world warblers and placed in the Sylvioidea clade (Old World lineage). Several pairs or family groups were enjoyed singing while moving the tail sideways.

Thrushes, Turdidae White-necked Thrush. Turdus albicollis. RI. Varzea’s Thrush, Turdus sanchezorum. This thrush was previously considered part of the Hauxwell’s Thrush, Turdus hauxwelli. It’s important to highlight this because since the mid 30’s there have been continuous controversy about the of the species. To make this story short, only recently (2011) O’Neal and collaborators cleared the understanding of the Western Amazonian populations and in January 2012, the SACC (South America Classification Committee) passed the proposal to consider it a valid species. RF. Black-billed Thrush, Turdus ignobilis. MH, FM, Iquitos area.

New World Warblers, Parulidae Yellow Warbler, Setophaga petechia. Iquitos area.

Euphonias, Fringillidae Purple-throated Euphonia, Euphonia chlorotica. RF. Thick-billed Euphonia, Euphonia laniirostris. RF. Golden-bellied Euphonia, Euphonia chrysopasta. RF. White-vented Euphonia, Euphonia minuta. RF. Orange-bellied Eauphonia, Euphonia xanthogaster. RF. Rufous-bellied Euphonia, Euphonia rufiventris. RF, SW.

New World Sparrows, Emberizidae Yellow-browed Sparrow, Ammodramus aurifrons. RI, MH.

Troupials, Blackbirds and allies, Icteridae Russet-backed Oropendola, Psarocolius angustifrons. Edge of RF, RI, SW. Crested Oropendola, Psarocolius decumanus. RF. Solitary (Black) Cacique, Cacicus solitarius. SW contiguous to Heliconia growth or thick vegetation. Yellow-rumped Cacique, Cacicus cela. Common in open areas. Orange-backed Troupial, Icterus croconotus. MH. Shiny Cowbird, Molothrus bonariensis. Open areas contiguous to RF, MH, FM. Giant Cowbird. Molothrus oryzivorus. RI. Velvet-fronted Grackle, Lampropsar tanagrinus. RF. Oriole Blackbird, Gymnomystax mexicanus. MH, SG, RI. Yellow-hooded Blackbird, Chrysomus icterocephalus. MH.

New World Warblers, Parulidae Yellow Warbler, setophaga petechia. RI.

Tanagers and allies, Thraupidae Red-capped Cardinal, Paroaria gularis. MH, SW. Hooded Tanager, Nemosia pileata. Edge of RF, RI. Orange-headed Tanager, Thlypopsis sordida. RI. Gray-headed Tanager, Eucometis penicillata. RF. An individual was observed with a

Victor Emanuel Nature Tours 18 Amazon River Cruise, 2019 conspicuous and bushy crest. White-shouldered Tanager, Tachyphonus luctuosus. RF. Silver-beaked Tanager, carbo. RF. Masked Crimson Tanager, Ramphocelus nigrogularis. RF, SW. Blue-gray Tanager, Thraupis episcopus. All kind of open habitats. Palm Tanager, Thraupis palmarum. Moriche palm stand. Turquoise Tanager, Tangara mexicana. RF. Paradise Tanager, Tangara chilensis . RF. One of the tour favorites! Opal-crowned Tanager, Tangara callophrys. RF. Green-and-gold Tanager, Tangara schrankii. RF. Yellow-bellied Dacnis, Dacnis flaviventer. RF. Blue Dacnis, Dacnis cayana. RF. Purple Honeycreeper. Cyanerpes caeruleus. RF. Guira Tanager. Hemithraupis guira. RF. Pearly-breasted Conebill, Conirostrum margaritae. RI. Blue-black Grassquit, Volatinia jacarina. RI. Lesson’s Seedeater. bouvronides. RF contiguous to SG. SG, RI. Chestnut-bellied Seedeater, Sporophila castaneiventris. MH. Chestnut-bellied (Lesser) Seed-Finch, Oryzoborus angolensis. MH. Caqueta Seedeater, Sporophila murallae. MH. Buff-throated Saltator. Saltator maximus. RF. Grayish Saltator, Saltator coerulescens. RI, MH, RF.

OTHER SPECIES

Sloths, Bradypodidae Brown-throated Three-toed Sloth, Bradypus variegatus. RF.

Marmosets & Tamarins, Callitrichidae Pygmy Marmoset, Cebuella pygmaea . RF. Heard only. Saddleback Tamarin, Saguinus fascicollis. RF, SW.

New World Monkeys, Cebidae Dusky Titi-Monkey, Callicebus moloch. RF, TF. Yellow-handed Titi Monkey. Callicebus torquatus. RF. Common Squirrel Monkey, Saimiri sciureus. SW, RF. Brown (Tufted) Capuchin. Cebus apella. RF. Monk Saki Monkey , Pithecia monachus. RF. Common Woolly Monkey, Lagothrix lagothricha . RF

Night Monkeys, Aotidae Nancy Ma’s Night Monkey (Owl Monkey), Aotus nancymaae. RF.

Large New World Monkeys, Atelidae Red-howler Monkey, Alouatta seniculus. RF.

Squirrels, Sciuridae Northern Amazonian Red Squirrel, igniventris. RF.

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Bolivian Squirrel, Sciurus ignitus. RF. Amazon Dwarf Squirrel, flaviventer. RF.

Spiny Rats & Tree Rats, Echimyidae Amazon Bamboo Rat, Microsciurus flaviventer. Heard only. RF. Yellow-crowned Brush-Tailed Tree Rat, Isothrix bistriata. RF.

Sheath-tailed Bats, Emballonuridae Long-nosed (Proboscis) Bat, Rhynchonycteris naso.

Bulldogs Bats, Noctillionidae Fishing Bat, Noctilio leporinus .

Raccoons & allies, Raccoons & allies, Procyonidae South American Coati, Nasua nasua. RF.

River Dolphins, Iniidae & Delphinidae Pink Amazon River Dolphin, Inia geoffrensis. Gray River Dolphin, Sotalia fluviatilis.

Reptiles and Amphibians Spectacled Caiman, Caiman crocodilus. Black Caiman, Melanosuchus niger. Caiman Lizard. Dracaena guianensis. Common Forest Anole, Anolis trachyderma. Rain Frog, Rana sp. TF. Variable Clown Frog, Hyla sp. Polka dot Tree Frog, Hypsiboas punctatus. MH. Greater Hatched-faced Frog, Sphaenorhynchus sp. MH. Crested Forest Toad, Rhinella sp. TF. Poison Dart Frog, Allobates femoralis [Dendrobatidae]. Heard only. RF.

Invertebrades Arboreal . Ciccada. Jumping . Dragon . Social Spider. Blue Butterfly. Aztec . Eurania moth. Millipede.

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Lima, Pantanos de Villa and Pucusana Bay LM. Lima area. PV. Pantanos de Villa. PC. Pucusana bay. LV. Lurin river valley.

BIRDS

Ducks & Geese, Anatidae Cinnamon Teal, Anus cyanoptera. PV. White-cheeked Pintail, Anas bahamensis. PV. Ruddy (Andean) Duck, Oxyura jamaicensis ferruginea. PV.

Grebes, Podicipedidae White-tufted Grebe, Rollandia Rolland. PV. Pied-billed Grebe, Podilymbus podiceps . PV. Great Grebe, Podiceps major. PV.

Pigeons & Doves, Columbidae Feral (Rock) Pigeon, Columba livia. Widespread in Lima. Croaking Ground-Dove, Columbina cruziana. PV. West Peruvian (Pacific) Dove, Zenaida meloda (formerly asiatica). Widespread.

Cuckoos, Cuculidae Groove-billed Ani, Crotophaga sulcirostris. PV.

Rails & Coots, Rallidae Plumbeous Rail, Rallus sanguinolentus. We enjoyed amazing views of an individual near the entrance of the visitor center. PV. Common Gallinule (Moorhen), Gallinula chloropus. PV. Slate-colored Coot, Fulica ardesiaca (includes all Andean forms). PV.

Thick-knees, Burhinidae Peruvian Thick-knee, Burhinus superciliaris. Two pairs PV and contiguous beach.

Stilts, Recurvirostridae Black-necked Stilt, Himantopus mexicanus. PV.

Oystercatchers, Haematopodidae American Oystercatcher, Haematopus palliates. PV beach. PC. Blackish Oystercatcher, Haematopus ater. PC.

Plovers and Lapwings, Charadriidae Killdeer, Charadrius vociferous. PV beach. Resident subspecies.

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Sandpipers, Scolopacidae Whimbrel, Numenius phaeopus. PC. Ruddy Turnstone, Arenaria interpres. PV, PC. Some in breeding plumage. Spotted Sandpiper, Actitis macularia. PV. Lesser Yellowlegs, Tringa flavipes. 1 individual. PV.

Gulls & Terns, Laridae Gray-hooded Gull, Chroicocephalus (Larus) cirrocephalus. 4+ PV. Gray Gull, Leucophaeus (Larus ) modestus. PV. Only one individual. Franklin’s Gull, Leucophaeus (Larus ) pipixcan. We estimated about 50 thousand individuals. PV. Band-tailed (Belcher’s) Gull, Larus belcheri. PV. Kelp Gull, Larus dominicanus. 8+ individuals were seen. PV. Inca Tern, Larosterna inca. 500+ PC. The most beautiful tern in the world! Elegant Tern, Thalasseus elegans. Only a pair. Black Skimmer, Rynchops niger. We estimated some 200 individuals. PV.

Penguins, Speniscidae Humboldt Penguin, Spheniscus humboldti, PC. Molting.

Boobies, Sulidae Peruvian Booby, Sula variegata, 3000+ individuals. PC. Blue-footed Booby, Sula nebouxii. 8 individuals.

Cormorants, Phalacrocoracidae Red-legged Cormorant, Phalacrocorax gaimardi. PC. Neotropic Cormorant, Phalacrocorax olivaceus, PV, PC. Guanay Cormorant, Phalacrocorax bougainvillii. PV, PC.

Pelicans, Pelecanidae Peruvian Pelican, Pelecanus thagus, Lima coast. PC.

Herons & Egrets, Ardeidae Least Bittern, Ixobrycgus exilis. PV. Great Egret, Egretta alba. PV. Snowy Egret, Egretta thula. PV. Cattle Egret, Bulbulcus ibis. PV. Striated Heron, Butorides striata. PV. Black-crowned Night-Heron, Nyctanassa nycticorax. PV.

Ibises & Spoonbills, Threskiornithidae Puna Ibis, Plegadis ridgwayi. PV.

New World Vultures, Cathartidae Black Vulture, Coragyps atratus. Widespread. Turkey Vulture, Cathartes aura. We observed a North American migrant individual –

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subspecies ruficollis-. PV.

Hawks, Eagles & Kites, Accipitridae Harris’s Hawk, Parabuteo unicinctus. PV.

Falcons & Caracaras, Falconidae American Kestrel, Falco sparverius. PV. Peregrine Falcon, Falco peregrinus. PV. Aplomado Falcon, Falco femoralis. PV.

Ovenbirds and woodcreepers, Furnariidae Wren-like Rushbird, Phleocryptes melanops. PV. Great views of pairs. Surf (Peruvian Seaside) Cinclodes, Cinclodes taczanowskii. PC.

Tyrant Flycatchers, Tyrannidae Many-colored Rush-Tyrant, Tachuris rubrigastra. PV. Vermilion Flycatcher, Pyrocephalus rubinus. LM.

Swallows, Hirundinidae Blue-and-white Swallow, Pygochelidon (Notiochelidon ) cyanoleuca. LU. Barn Swallow, Hirundo rustica. PV.

Wrens, Troglodytidae House Wren, Troglodytes aedon. LM.

Mockingbirds, Mimidae Long-tailed Mockingbird, Mimus longicaudatus. LM, LU.

Blackbirds and allines, Icteridae Peruvian Meadowlark, Sturnella bellicosa. LU. Shiny Cowbird, Molothrus bonariensis. PV. Scrub Blackbird, Dives warszewiczi. LM, PV, LU. Yellow-hooded Blackbird, Chrysomus icterocephalus. PV.

Tanagers, Thraupidae Grassland Yellow-Finch, Sicalis luteola. LU. Chestnut-throated Seedeater, Sporophila telasco . LU. Bananaquit, Coereba flaveola. LM, LU.

Finches, Euphonias & Allies, Fringillidae Hooded Siskin, Spinus magellanicus. LV.

OTHER SPECIES South American Sea Lion, Otaria flavescens. PC. Guayaquil Squirrel. Sciurus stramineus. LM. Introduced.

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