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1 BirdQuest Tour Report: Colombia With a Difference 2013 www.birdquest-tours.com

Brown-billed Scythebill

COLOMBIA WITH A DIFFERENCE

2 – 24 FEBRUARY 2013

LEADER: EUSTACE BARNES Photographs by Eustace Barnes, Ed Wilson and Diana Balcazar It is hard to say whether this trip could run more successfully but I always find myself thinking this for a short while after a tour. We did manage to record a modest 607 species of birds and some great mammals. These included such spectacular species as the magnificent Blue-billed Currassow, the odd-looking Recurve-billed Bushbird and the stunningly graceful Black-tipped Cotinga.


There were many more highlights which included a Highland Tinamou, a superb pair of Gorgeted Wood-Quails, the uncommon Northern Screamer; stunning Flame-winged Parakeets and a Rusty-faced Parrot, the subtly beautiful Tolima Dove, Blue and yellow and Great green Macaws, the endemic Black Inca and Chestnut-bellied Hummingbirds amongst a total of 53 hummingbirds, Black-breasted Puffbird, the lovely White-mantled and Spot-crowned Barbets, Beautiful Woodpecker at a nest hole, the rarely seen Brown-billed Scythebill, the recently discovered Urrao Antpitta and a noisy Streak-chested Antpitta, Rufous-browed Tyrannulet, Black-billed Flycatcher and the rarely seen Yellow-throated Spadebill, several Blue Cotingas a pair of Ocellated Tapaculos, Sooty Ant-Tanagers, Scarlet and white Tanagers, the localized Yellow-headed Brush-Finch and the endemic and endangered Baudo Oropendola and Colombian Mountain Grackles. One runs out of superlatives with the Neotropical avifauna but suffice to say we had a great time Oh and let’s not forget the mammals which were surprisingly good with superb sightings of troops of Geoffroy’s Tamarins and White-fronted Capuchins being escorted by Double-toothed Kites, a troop of White-bellied Spider Monkeys, two Tayras and a Neotropical River Otter. A great list reflecting a packed and exciting trip!

The uncommon endemic Flame-winged Parakeet Once assembled in Bogotá we arranged a suitably early start for our exploration of Chingaza National Park the following morning. Given that the assembled Birdquesters had suffered 209 Birdquest tours nothing would have surprised them. On arrival we began to walk up through the forest edge to enjoy a spectacular morning working our way through numerous mixed flocks. We began the day with several stunning Black-billed Mountain Toucans, a couple of Red-crested Cotingas, good numbers of Northern Mountain Caciques and several Blue-throated Starfrontlets; the latter a somewhat uncommon and infrequently seen species. However, it was the appearance of a flock of superb Flame-winged Parakeets that really got the morning off to a great start with our first endemic; as it happens, a somewhat localised one. The stunning scenery and bright weather made for a great day as we worked our way up towards the paramo. We quickly found both Ash-coloured and Mattoral Tapaculos in dense bamboo thickets getting our list of these terrestrial skulkers off to a good start. We then found the endemic Coppery-bellied Puffleg, which again gave great views in the morning sun. The aforementioned mixed flocks held a number of what are often termed ‘goodies’. Amongst


this varied bunch were the white-faced form of Golden-fronted Whitestart, Black-capped Tyrannulet, Rufous Wren, Slaty and Pale-naped Brush-Finch, Hooded and Scarlet-bellied Mountain Tanagers and an assortment of Hemispingi and Tyrannids. We were unable to get to the higher paramos but it was time to return to Bogota and make preparations for the following day.

The endemic Copperry-bellied Puffleg (left) and near endemic Rufous-browed Conebill (right) Diana Balcazar. Having retired early the previous day we were charged for an early start and a full day of birding above Monte Redondo, located in the humid foothills of the east flank. On arrival, and after a splendid spread, lovingly prepared by yours truly, we began birding shortly after dawn. Actually whilst enjoying said field breakfast a pair of Sickle-winged Guans fed and displayed above us. Once on our way, walking through stunning subtropical forests along the narrow road several Masked Trogons, a small flock of Flame-winged Parakeets, numerous Andean Toucanets and a Lined Wood-quail feeding in the road kept us entertained a while.

A very confiding Lined Quail Dove


As we worked our way up through the forests we were quickly caught up in the whirl wind of an immense mixed flock that kept us busy for some time. This flock held Rufous-breasted Flycatcher, Cinnamon Flycatcher, Three-striped and Russet-crowned Warblers, the uncommon Rufous-crested Tanager, Plumbeous-crowned Tyrannulet and Slaty-capped Flycatchers amongst others. Also present were several roving groups of Andean Toucanets and a flock of Flame-winged Parakeets feeding in fruiting Cercropias. We then headed further up to another area requiring of our time. On arrival we could hear Chestnut-crowned Antpitta and Schwartz’s Antthrush in the distance and very soon thereafter Cundinamarca Antpitta. However, inspite of an intensive effort we did not manage to see one. The birds were not very active and did not respond to our biddings at this maybe over birded site. As we continued along the track we did see a good number of Green and black Fruiteaters, Grass-green Tanagers, a couple of Rufous-headed Pygmy Tyrants and a pair of very obliging Blackish Tapaculos. We then began to retrace our steps scrapping all thought of padding the list with common birds associated with the mess of human settlement around the village below and returned to Bogota, keeping in mind the spectacle of swirling mixed flocks, parrots, toucans and caciques so integral to birding the sub-tropics in South America.

The endemic Bogota Rail The following morning found us enjoying another field breakfast while waiting for dawn outside the Parque La Florida near the international airport. Once in the park we made our way along the edge the central lagoon getting wet feet in the process. We enjoyed seeing our first Bare-faced Ibises, Cattle and Great Egrets, Blue-winged Teal, a small number of Lesser Scaup, Spot-flanked Gallinules, American Coot and Common Gallinule amongst other wetland species. Huge numbers of Yellow-hooded Blackbirds ‘flighting’ back and forth over the reeds along with Red-breasted Blackbirds and Shiny Cowbirds provided a stunning back drop to the waking marsh. The reeds and boggy marshes in front of us held a number of Bogota Rails which we were able to watch at close quarters.


Wintering Sora Rail are easily seen at La Florida. We also found a couple of Sora Rails, more Spot-flanked Gallinules, Solitary Sandpipers, the endemic Apoliner’s Marsh Wren, several Grassland Yellow finches and Band-tailed Seedeaters along with Great Thrushes and Eared Doves. Exploring the scrubby vegetation nearby produced the endemic Silvery-throated Spinetail and near endemic Rufous-browed Conebills both of which were very cooperative. After that superb spectacle of waterfowl and big hit of endemics we were ready for our drive north to Soata and the next chapter of our wandering in the Cordillera Oriental. We did make a brief stop on the paramo de Susacom where we saw a number of Sedge Wrens but little else as the heavens opened and the crash of thunder rolled around us, reminding us of the last Birdquest trip when the road was closed by landslides. That was then and also during the aftermath of the so-called Southern Oscillation. Our storm was prolonged and heavy but as nothing in comparison to 2009.

Apolinar’s Marsh Wren is now threatened in its very limited range.


Soata is a rather pleasant rural town in an intensively farmed area. Above town however is a ridge cloaked with thick oak forest and one of the most accessible sites for the Colombian Mountain Grackle which is now seriously endangered by habitat degradation and deforestation. Luckily for us there is a driveable track through the forest and at dawn we were taking another breakfast while listening to the unfolding dawn chorus. Strong-billed Woodcreepers and Mattoral Tapaculos began the day along with several Crimson-mantled Woodpeckers. The oak forests here are quite magnificent and the vistas in all directions certainly reminded us of forests in Eastern Europe or the Rockies. At the pass we found Golden-bellied Starfrontlets, Buff-breasted Mountain-Tanagers, numerous Blackburnian Warblers and Moustached Brush-finches but no Grackles. We began to work our way down through the forests, finding a pair of superb Rusty-faced Parrots which perched up for us, giving great views of another scarce and infrequently seen species. Several hours later but only a little further down the slope we picked up a pair of blackbirds in the company of Inca Jays and we had located our quarry. As it happens we all enjoyed scope views of this elegant and unfortunately now very rare species. We then headed back to town to search some degraded dry scrub for our other targets; the Niceforo’s Wren. We did find Golden-crowned Warblers, Bar-crested Antshrikes, Striped Cuckoo and eventually a pair of Niceforo’s Wrens. This somewhat elusive species did not afford such great views as the Grackle but we did see them skulking about before we headed back to town to enjoy another meal at our restaurant and wait out another heavy storm.

The endangered Colombian Mountain Grackle The journey to the Reserva Reinita Cielo Azul, our next site, from Soata is indeed a short distance but as we were to discover a very long journey made worse by traffic jams and bad roads; as it happens, problems that will be resolved in the near future. Our first stop was the paramo de Susacom which again proved somewhat birdless but spectacularly beautiful.


The Paramo de Susacom

Our next stop was the Rogitama reserve, made famous by the recent discovery of a ‘Blue’ Sylph, thought initially to be the long lost Bogota Sunangel. Our rather too lengthy stop produced several Black Incas, Lazuline Sabrewing, several Short-tailed Emeralds and many other hummers on the flowering shrubs around the house. It also produced brief views of the sylph, the identity of which will soon be determined as blood tests have been taken and biologists have taken an interest in its identity. If this bird proves to be new species this rather ramshackle site will become another key destination for birders visiting Colombia; always good to be the first on site. Our stay may have been lengthened by yet another stunning young lady who served us coffee.

The widespread White-necked Jacobin (left) and endemic Black Inca (right).


The journey from Soata to Cerulea, more than any other on this trip, really raised the question as to why a comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment had not been conducted as to the possible impact of introducing ‘human’ beings into the region. I am sure it would have concluded that the idea, involving such a destructive exotic was indeed a negative. Still, too late now. We then drove on to Cerulea mulling through the world wide consequences of such unregulated translocations, arriving rather later than planned owing to accidents and highway building activities en route. The night was clear and the morning promised to be dry so we retired looking forward to our forthcoming explorations up the hill. We all woke to of what sounded like buckets of nails falling on the roof of our lodgings accompanied by a spectacular electrical light show. It was, of course, rain and we were forced to spend the entire morning watching the hummingbird feeders and mixed flocks roving through nearby flowering shrubs. As it happens, after the exertions of the day before, we welcomed this enforced rest and enjoyed great views of a number of targeted uncommon endemics. We found a nice Chestnut-bellied Hummingbird on the feeders along with Red-billed Emeralds, Gorgeted Woodstar, Green-fronted Lancebill, Green-fronted Brilliants, the localised Indigo-capped Hummingbird, a single Lazuline Sabrewing and numerous White-necked Jacobins. Around the bushes nearby we found a Mourning Warbler, Yellow-bellied Siskin, Lesser Goldfinches and several pairs of Bicoloured Wrens. Working our way outwards we found Spectacled Parrotlets, Red-crowned Woodpeckers, Crimson-backed Tanagers, Scrub Tanagers, Masked Tityra and many others including the lovely endemic Turquoise Dacnis; a key species at this site. Once this lot had been bagged the rain conveniently eased off and we planned to climb up to the cloud forests above the reserve and for which the area is justly famous. The long list of specialities found there certainly demands a good deal of time and effort and so it was to prove for us.

A particular favourite; the characterful Bicoloured Wren. After a restful but also very productive morning we had a superb early lunch and decided to head off to the reserve thereafter. As it had been a cold and very wet morning I figured the skulking denizens of the cloud forest maybe a little hungry and perhaps a little more active than usual as a result. On arrival at the feeders we settled in to watch the superb hummingbird feeders while keeping half an eye on the forest trail beneath us.


The feeders were attracting good numbers of Black Incas, Green Hermits, Speckled Hummingbirds, Green-crowned Brilliant, Buff-tailed Coronets, a lone Fawn-breasted Brilliant and dozens of Violet-crowned Woodnymphs. We also saw Plain Xenops, the resident Olive-striped Flycatchers that have a lek at the site and a number of very smart Chestnut-capped Brush-finches. A pair of lovely Lined Quail Doves paraded on the trail along with a Central American Agouti. We waited until about five and then a pair of stunning Gorgeted Wood Quail suddenly appeared before us. We watched them picking about together with the Quail Doves as long as we could and then returned to our lodgings below having had a spectacular day and thinking, much like the birds, of a pleasant meal. Our second full day proved equally productive as we worked the trails. We found our first Smoky brown Woodpeckers, Collared Trogons, Spotted Barbtails, Lineated and Montane Foliage-Gleaners a pair of Olive-backed Woodcreepers, several Montane Woodcreepers and a spectacular pair of Brown-billed Scythebills. The latter gave us unforgettable views and we were able to watch them picking around in a rotting stump for some time. They were attached to a huge mixed flock that kept us entertained for some time. We taped out Uniform Antshrike, Rufous-rumped Antwren, Variegated Bristle-Tyrant, the rare Rufous-browed Tyrannulet, Ornate Flycatcher, Flavescent Flycatcher, several superb Golden-winged Manakins, Barred Becards, Metallic-green Tanagers, a pair of White-winged Tanagers, a family group of Ashy-throated Bush-tanagers and several Subtropical Caciques. The Golden-winged Manakin is a most strange looking species with a spectacular display which we were able to watch as a couple of males chased a female around the mid-canopy. Tearing ourselves away from this spectacle we then found a pair of Parker’s Antbirds and the newly described Upper Magdalena Tapaculo. The latter is usually very difficult to actually see but on this occasion it appeared without the use of tape although a short cut brought it back into the open. We also had great looks at Long-tailed Tapaculo but failed to see the calling White-bellied Antpittas whose songs rang through the forest. Accompanying those antpittas were Highland Tinamous and several coveys of Gorgeted Wood Quail. After some effort we had reasonable views of a Highland Tinamou. We did not climb up to the higher oak forests as we had already seen Mountain Grackle at Soata and as it was beginning to rain lightly we decided to return to the lodge for a late lunch. As we eat lunch it began to rain hard and continued to do so for much of the rest of the day but we had seen nearly all our targets except one; the rare Yellow-throated Spadebill.

The rare and even more rarely seen Yellow-throated Spadebill.


We were due to leave the Reinita Cielo Azul Reserve and head north to Ocana but, as it was not raining, I planned to climb up to the cloud forest again. We headed directly to a territory of the Spadebill and waited. It took some time but while we searched we enjoyed good views of several Western Dwarf Squirrels and more looks at tanagers and furnarids in the mixed flocks that passed through but fairly soon the distinctive call of our quarry rang out beneath us. In no time we were face to face with the stunning little Yellow-throated Spadebill. It sat still for some time giving unbeatable views and then took off up slope never to be seen again It was time for us to go as well and we returned to the lodge to pack and enjoy an early lunch before heading north. It is hard to imagine where else one could enjoy such great birding away from South America with a continuous stream of new species and such huge active mixed flocks. All this is, of course, greatly helped by the fantastic staff and meals provided at the lodge. On our way north to Ocana we did not stop except to find Apical Flycatcher and Velvet-fronted Euphonia, giving us two more endemics; both in fact common and widespread in dry forests in the Magdalena and Cauca valleys. Needless to say we again arrived rather later than might be considered ideal but we had had a great time so far and found practically everything we were looking for.

Moustached Puffbird The following morning at the Bushbird reserve we were disappointed by the cold, clear and windy conditions that we were going to endure in our search for the enigmatic and indeed elusive Recurve-billed Bushbird. The bamboo had died back the previous year and it had not rained for weeks making the forest dry and eerily quiet. Our full day here was spent walking the trails through the reserve visiting seven territories of our target species. We did find three Moustached Puffbirds and several pairs of the localised Grey-throated Warbler but little else all day. Klage’s Antbird (one of four species derived from splitting the Long-tailed Antbird) sung from a distant bamboo patch and some Band-tailed Pigeons shot over our heads but it was dismal after our extraordinary success at Cerulea. We returned to our hotel and the delightful company of a number of stunning Colombian women, strikingly aware of how attractive they are. The following morning my suggestion that we should revisit the reserve for a final bash at the Bushbird was not met with much enthusiasm. Indeed since the weather was unchanged and territory after territory proved quiet such pessimism seemed justified.


However, at the last minute and as we rounded a sharp bend in a large bamboo patch the distinctive call of a male Bushbird rang out. After positioning ourselves we waited and in due course a splendid male appeared giving great views as it sang from a dense thicket in front of us. We then returned to the park guard’s house to see a Black-headed Tanager and a lovely pair of Burnished-buff Tanagers which were also the only individuals of their species that we saw on the tour. Time to go and we headed south to El Paujil on another rather long journey stopping only at a couple of marshes on the way.

The splendid Northern Screamer After the slog of birding in dry cloud forests the marshes provided a pleasant change. We were looking for the Northern Screamer of which we ended up seeing sixteen or so splendid individuals standing around. However, such habitats are often thronging with wildlife and these were no exception. We found Neotropical Cormorant, Anhinga, hundreds of Bare-faced ibises, Lesser Yellow-headed Vultures, Osprey, several Pearl Kites, a superb male Long-winged Harrier, Great black, Savanna and Black-collared Hawks, the black form of Wattled Jacana and large numbers of parrots. These included a number of Blue and yellow Macaws, a truly magnificent species. There were also Chestnut-fronted Macaws, Red-lored, Orange-winged and Yellow-crowned Amazons and a few Blue-headed Parrots. A Neotropical River Otter was spotted by Ian and progress slowed to a halt as every succeeding damp field produced yet more surprises. Amongst these the most memorable were our first Chestnut-mandibled Toucans, Pied water Tyrant, White-headed Marsh Tyrant, Donacobius, Thick-billed Seed-Finch, Orchard Oriole, Yellow-backed oriole and several Red-breasted Blackbirds. However, it was the Large-billed Seedfinch that stole the show as it put on such a great display. This is an increasingly rare species owing to the depredations of the cage bird trade causing it to decline across much of its range. We then had to go as we were still somewhat distant from our next lodgings to which we arrived a little later than planned as is something of a Birdquest tradition.


Donacobius (left) and Large-billed Seedfinch (right) near Puerto Pinzon.

El Paujil was set up primarily to protect a population of the rare Blue-billed Curassow discovered by Pro-Aves field biologists and it was this species that drew us to this spectacular site. It was always going to be tough to find this species but as the site protects a large tract of primary foothill forest it is also a great birding site more generally. Our first morning was spent exploring trails around the lodge which was a little slow but we did find Laughing Falcon, White-tailed Trogon, the lovely Citron-throated Toucan, Collared Aracari, the endemic Beautiful Woodpecker, Cinnamon Woodpecker, Western Slaty Antshrike, Chestnut-backed Antbird, the diminutive Brown-capped Tyrannulet, Southern Bentbill, a pair of Black-headed Tody-Flycatchers, Rufous Mourner, Masked Tityra, Black-chested Jay, Black-bellied Wren, Grey-headed Tanager and the pretty Golden-hooded Tanager. The hummingbird feeders gave us Black-throated Mango, White-necked Jacobin, numerous Blue-chested Hummingbirds and a number of White-vented Plumeleteers during the heat of the day. During our stay here the secondary growth was great for Manakins and we enjoyed some great views of the flaveolus form of White-bearded Manakin, Western Striped Manakin, Golden-headed Manakin and a very cooperative Brown Schiffornis, split from Thrushlike Schiffornis.

Our search for the Blue-billed Currassow meant that it was the foothill forests above the lodge to which we devoted most of our time. We did find a good number of species on our initial visits which gave us our first booming calls of the Currassow, a Double-toothed Kite following a troop of White-fronted Capuchins, Gartered Trogon, quite a number of White-whiskered Puffbirds, White-fronted Nunbirds, several pairs of White-mantled Barbets, yet more Beautiful Woodpeckers and good views Cinnamon Woodpeckers. The sub-oscines were of a decidedly tropical nature and included Plain-brown, Wedge-billed, Black-striped and Cocoa Woodcreepers, Chestnut-backed Antbird and the distinctive form of Black-faced Antthrush often split as the Panamanian Antthrush. We also found Ochre-bellied Flycatcher, a strikingly common species here along with Sepia-capped Flycatcher and several pairs of Black-billed Flycatchers, Sulphur-rumped Myiobius, Purple-throated Fruitcrows, Black-crowned and Masked Tityras and a number of more tuneful Oscines. The most striking of which was the Sooty Ant-Tanager. Birding around the lodge allowed us to enjoy more views of White-bearded Manakins and parrots. At dusk a Great Potoo called and we then found it perched high up in a leafy tree around the clearing. After dinner we tried for the Crested Owl which we taped in, enjoying great views of a bird above our heads. We then taped it to a position from which we could look at the bird at our level which again proved successful. This species must be the most stunning Owl with its crazy looking tufts extending way out beyond its head and we enjoyed walk away of what can be a tricky customer. A clear tour favourite for Ian and indeed such a great view that it would be a memory recalled time and again during the rest of the trip.


The huge King Vulture (left) and magnificent Blue and Yellow Macaw (right).

We had not managed to see the Currassow after a couple of forays to the known territories and had only managed to hear a single booming male. On the day of our departure I again planned to make the most of that last chance. We duly headed off without any great expectation, seeing more Beautiful Woodpeckers, White-mantled Barbets, a pair of Blue and yellow Macaws prospecting for nest sites and a pair of Ruddy Pigeons building a nest. We could hear the male booming above us and walked slowly and silently upslope until the sound of the call seemed almost beneath our feet and sure enough the birds were just down slope from where we were stood. Once our presence was detected they walked quickly upslope in front of us to give fantastic views of two males, after which two females joined them and rather more hurriedly headed upslope making for what must be the most memorable of rainforest experiences. Elated at having seen one of the rarest Neotropical species, we slowly began our descent to the lodge. On the way a troop of White-bellied Spider Monkeys shrieked above us giving great views of another rare denizen of the humid forests of the region and another new species for your leader! At the lodge we had a couple of hours to spare before lunch and we decided to walk the trails again in search of the uncommon Black Antshrike which we had failed to find the day before. Wandering those trails Rod caught sight of a bird following us which was a female Black Antshrike in search of the non-existent male calling for a mate. We had again managed all of our targets and after lunch we headed off to Libano in high spirits arriving a little later than planned but just before a ferocious electrical storm that knocked out the electrics in town. Libano, located in the heart of coffee country, has a number of patches of humid-forest just outside town and it was to these that we headed at dawn. In no time the pretty and endemic Yellow-headed Brush-Finch put in an appearance. The most difficult species to see at this site is the very rare Tolima Dove and it was this species to which we devoted much of our time. Although one reads endlessly about doves being seen flitting off paths or flying across the road there is nothing quite like seeing the bird perched in front of you. As such we headed to our rather improbable looking site, concealed ourselves within the remaining forest and quietly waited. Several birds were loudly calling and with a little patience at least three birds were seen parading along branches in front of us. As is the case with many of these forest floor doves they are in fact beautifully coloured with subtle pastel shades. Roger had remained in the bus as he did not feel well and so I returned


to check on how he was. To my horror he was worse and we immediately headed to Libano hospital where it was determined that he needed further treatment much to his irritation. On our way to Medellin we visited the Bellavista reserve above Vitoria. It rained hard and we saw practically nothing except a White-breasted Wood-Wren. We then descended to the Magdalena valley to visit some drier open habitats where we picked up quite a list of new species. These included Yellow Oriole, more Velvet-fronted Euphonias, Black-faced Grassquit, Grey Seedeater, a pair of White-fringed Antwrens, Barred Antshrike, Jet Antbird, Rufous-tailed Jacamars, Brown-crested Flycatcher and a Black-crowned Tityra. We also taped in a superb Grey-lined Hawk which perched and shrieked at us for some time. We then continued towards Medellin where Roger was immediately transferred to an excellent hospital as his condition had deteriorated further. A lengthy series of investigations revealed he probably had appendicitis or peritonitis and needed immediate treatment. As such he was unfortunately forced to leave the trip at that point. Luckily, we were in Medellin where medical services are as good as anywhere. The tour was not adversely affected although we did lose a few hours of birding at Libano.

The beautifully marked Grey-lined Hawk Medellin was the city from which we were due to fly down to Bahia Solano in the Choco to visit the Utria National Park. The flight left promptly and we arrived with plenty of time to do some birding along the road before lunch on our way to the magnificent El Almejal lodge on the beach at El Valle. After lunch and a rest we again birded the same road seeing a fantastic selection of species. Our time here was watched by Magnificent Frigatebirds drifting overhead while in the fields and forests along the road we saw numerous Little Blue Herons, Snowy Egrets, a pair of King Vultures, both Swallow-tailed and Plumbeous Kites, as well as spectacular views of a pair of Tiny Hawks and a Bat Falcon. A pair of Rose-faced Parrots, numerous Blue-headed Parrots and Mealy Amazons were much in evidence along with Band-rumped and Grey-rumped Swifts, several pairs of Pied Puffbirds and the near endemic Spot-crowned Barbet; the latter a big target for this part of the tour. There were also several pairs of Chestnut-mandibled and Choco Toucans, Stripe-billed Aracari, Black-cheeked Woodpeckers, Black-striped Woodcreepers, the diminutive Black-capped Pygmy-Tyrant and Yellow-margined Flycatcher. Far more significantly we found the rarely seen Blue Cotinga and a stunning male Black-tipped Cotinga which we were able to watch at length, allowing us to see the bright orange irides. Black-chested Jay was rather numerous, along with Bay Wren, Tawny-


crested, Plain-coloured, Golden-hooded and Dusky-faced Tanagers Scarlet-thighed and Blue Dacnis, Purple, Red-legged and Green Honeycreepers and a number of Fulvous-vented Euphonias as well as many other species we had already seen at El Paujil. The day was not over and after working through a small tanager flock and finding a brooding Great Potoo by the road we heard and then located a displaying Baudo Oropendola; one of the rarest and most localised Chocoan species and our foremost target for this part of the tour. In the next hour or so we saw another twenty birds and had some great views of this little known species before we were forced to return to our lodgings and a superb meal in the company of our very attractive Colombian hostess.

White-tailed Trogon (left) and Great Potoo (right) The following day we took a speed boat to the park headquarters in the very picturesque Utria sound which proved to be an excellent introduction to the primary forests of the park. Exploring a number of trails we found several Lemon-spectacled Tanagers, Tawny-faced Gnatwrens, White-whiskered Puffbird, Spot-crowned Antvireo and White-flanked Antwren but a singling Stripe-throated Wren did not show. At the park we heard Baudo Guans, saw a White Hawk, numerous Sapphire-throated Hummingbirds in the extensive mangroves, a pair of Blue Cotingas, more Black-tipped Cotingas and Pied Puffbirds, Pacific Antwren, the magnificent Golden-collared Manakin, Chestnut-headed Oropendola and Pacific Caciques. Walking the El Valle trail we found a few more Baudo Oropendolas, an adult Black Hawk-Eagle and a King Vulture. We were then very fortunate to see another Double-toothed Kite following a troop of Geoffroy’s Tamarins; the latter a very pretty but rare primate. A distinctive call led us off the main trail and eventually to its source where we were treated to point blank views of a singing Streak-chested Antpitta and certainly another trip highlight. At the same site we found our first Black-breasted Puffbird and more Golden-collared Manakins. A little further along the track we heard and then saw a couple of pairs of Great green Macaws flying over us, giving all too brief views. We also found several pairs of Rose-faced Parrots, Mealy Amazons, a single Green-crowned Woodnymph, Dot-winged Antwrens, several Checker-throated Antwrens, a Pacific Flatbill, a pair of White-ringed Flycatchers, Blue-crowned and Red-capped Manakins displaying at their leks. A canopy flock gave us several pairs of Scarlet and white Tanagers and several Scarlet-browed Tanagers and Orange-billed Sparrows. Wandering through the mangroves we again saw a number of Sapphire-throated Hummingbirds and Great-tailed Grackles before we had to return to the lodge. As we crossed the open sea on our way back to El Valle a flock a seven black sea duck lifted off in front of the boat and flew in front of us. They were Black Scoter and the first recordings of the species for South America.


The very rare endemic Baudo Oropendola (left) and localized Black-tipped Cotinga (right) The following morning we took our leave of the lodge and headed back to Bahia Solano. As we worked our way along the road we found a few Bicoloured Antbirds and a pair of Dusky Antbirds. We also heard a Thicket Antpitta but despite an intensive effort it did not show. We did see more Rose-faced Parrots, White-mantled Barbets, a Ruddy-tailed Flycatcher, a female Black-tipped Cotinga, Lesser Greenlets and numerous other tanagers and tyrannids.

The pretty little Geoffroy’s Tamarin.


Pied Puffbird (left) and Black-breasted Puffbird (right) are both common at El Valle. On arrival in Medellin we met up with Eugenio, our driver, and loaded up before picking our way out of Medellin on our way to Urrao. We made a brief stop at Bolombolo in the Cauca valley. This is the site where a distinctive form of Rufous and White Wren was discovered and described as a new species; the Antioquia Wren. Our time here produced a pair of Colombian Wrens, the distinctive pale form of Black-striped Sparrows, Colombian Chachalaca, a flock of Scarlet-fronted Parakeets, a splendid Apical Flycatcher, Bar-crested Antshrike, Thick-billed Euphonia, Tropical Gnatcatcher, Rufous-naped Greenlet, Ruddy-breasted Seedeaters and a Yellow Warbler. The Antioquia Wren called but did not show satisfactorily and we gave up as it was time to go, although we still arrived rather later than planned. At five the following morning we headed up to meet with our local guides and the horses to take us up to the Colibri del Sol reserve. The tranquil setting and the magnificent landscapes made for a great ride up the valley to the reserve. The hummingbird feeders at the reserve attract Mountain Velvetbreast, Sword-billed Hummingbird, Collared Inca, numerous Tourmaline Sunangels, Long-tailed Sylph, seven White-bellied Woodstars, Green and Sparkling Violetears and Buff-tailed Coronets.

Urrao Antpitta (left) and Ocellated Tapaculo (right)


We enjoyed a great breakfast and took a short rest before saddling up and riding to the paramos, about an hour away and five hundred meters above us. We worked through a number of Paramillo Tapaculos before one responded and we had great views of one creeping through the undergrowth. We also had the tremendous great fortune to see a pair of Ocellated Tapaculos. They just sat in the bamboo eying us and preening before they took themselves off allowing us to continue up to the treeline. Once up through the mossy cloud forests and onto the paramos we found ourselves in a botanical wonderland of flowering Espeletias, Fuschias and other flowering shrubs covering the hillsides as far as we could see; a truly incredible sight and one not to be forgotten. Manically feeding in the shrubs were several Black-throated Flowerpiercers, the endemic Chestnut-bellied Flowerpiercer and numerous tanagers and Hemispingi. These included Pearled Treerunners, Streaked Tuftedcheek, Black-headed and Black-capped Hemispingus, Black-chested, Lacrimose and Hooded Mountain Tanagers, Red-crested Cotingas, Golden-faced Whitestart, Masked and Bluish Flowerpiercers, several Purple-backed Thornbills, Glowing Pufflegs and eventually a couple of Dusky Starfrontlets; a rare endemic and one of primary targets at the site. We then worked our way down through the forests finding a superb Tyrannine Woodcreeper, a Blackish Tapaculo, White-tailed and Sulphur-bellied Tyrannulets, a Yellow-bellied and Rufous-breasted Chat-Tyrant, Golden-crowned Tanager, Blue-backed Conebill, Capped Conebill and a Red-hooded Tanager.

Red-crested Cotinga The following morning we made our way along a narrow trail to where the recently described Urrao Antpitta was fed. A few minutes after our arrival one bird appeared and fed in front of us for some time before disappearing to be replaced by another. Once we had watched the birds for some time we began our descent to Urrao seeing a few birds in a mixed flock. These included Rufous-breasted Flycatcher, Capped Conebill, Brown-capped Vireo, Saffron-crowned Tanager, Streaked Tuftedcheek, Pearled Treerunners and a number of Blue and black Tanagers. We headed back to our hotel in town and then took our leave from Urrao for our homeward flights. We made another brief stop in the Cauca valley where we did manage to get very good views of a pair of Antioquia Wrens. It was time to get a move on and not an occasion to arrive later than planned. All said, a great trip I look forward to repeating in the near future.


SYSTEMATIC LIST Species which were heard but not seen are indicated by the symbol (H). Species which were not personally recorded by the leader are indicated by the symbol (NL). Species which were only recorded by the leaders are indicated by the symbol (L). Tawny-breasted Tinamou ◊ Nothocercus julius (H) One heard at Chingaza and another at Urrao. Highland Tinamou ◊ Nothocercus bonapartei Many heard and one seen at Cerulea. Great Tinamou Tinamus major Several heard and several seen at Paujil. Little Tinamou Crypturellus soui Fairly common at Paujil where two seen on the ridge trails. Choco Tinamou Crypturellus kerriae (H) Several heard at El Valle. Northern Screamer ◊ Chauna chavaria Up to 20 seen in the Magdalena valley and near Puerto Pinzon. Blue-winged Teal Anas discors Common at Parque La Florida. Lesser Scaup Aythya affinis A small flock of five birds at Parque La Florida. Andean Duck Oxyura andina A large number seen at Parque La Florida. Ruddy Duck Oxyura jamaicensis A reasonable number of wintering birds found at Parque La Florida. Black Scoter Melanitta nigra A flock of seven seen off shore en route to El Valle. See comment in report. Muscovy Duck Cairina moschata A few seen along the Magdalena valley and one at Bahia Solano. Sickle-winged Guan ◊ Chamaepetes goudotii A pair seen at Monte Redondo. Band-tailed Guan ◊ Penelope argyrotis (H) Several pairs heard at Ocana. Andean Guan Penelope montagnii Good numbers in Chingaza National Park. Crested Guan Penelope purpurascens (H) A pair heard at Utria NP. Baudo Guan Penelope ortoni (H) A group heard at Utria NP. We arrived too late in the day for this shy species. Wattled Guan ◊ Aburria aburri (H) Two birds heard at Cerulea. Grey-headed Chachalaca Ortalis cinereiceps One seen very briefly at Bahia Solano. Colombian Chachalaca ◊ Ortalis columbiana Seen and heard at several locations. Blue-billed Curassow ◊ Crax alberti Superb sightings of two pairs of birds together at Paujil. Stunning. Marbled Wood-Quail Odontophorus gujanensis (H) Several coveys heard at Paujil. Black-fronted Wood-Quail ◊ Odontophorus atrifrons (H) Several coveys heard above Ocana. Gorgeted Wood-Quail ◊ Odontophorus strophium A stunning pair seen on our first afternoon at Cerulea. Pied-billed Grebe Podilymbus podiceps Several seen at La Florida. Least Grebe Tachybaptus dominicus Seen from the bus in the Magdalena valley. Brown Pelican Pelecanus occidentalis Common at El Valle. Blue-footed Booby Sula nebouxii A couple seen off shore at El Valle. Neotropical Cormorant Phalacrocorax brasilianus Small numbers seen at a few locations. Anhinga Anhinga anhinga Seen in the mid-Magdalena valley. Magnificent Frigatebird Fregata magnificens Common on the coast. Black-crowned Night-Heron Nycticorax nyciticorax A few seen at Parque La Florida. Yellow-crowned Night-Heron Nyctanassa violacea A couple seen in Utria National Park. Striated Heron Butorides striata Commonly seen throughout.

Green Heron


Green Heron Butorides virescens One seen in Parque La Florida where an irregular winter visitor. Western Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis Common throughout. Cocoi Heron Ardea cocoi Small numbers seen throughout. Western Great Egret Ardea alba Small numbers seen throughout. Capped Heron Pilherodius pileatus One seen near Rio claro and another near El Valle. Snowy Egret Egretta thula Not uncommon in open areas throughout. Little Blue Heron Egretta caerulea Quite common at Bahia Solano. Green Ibis Mesembrinibis cayannensis (H) Heard at Bare-faced Ibis Phimosus infuscatus Common Parque La Florida, where a recent colonist, and elsewhere. Turkey Vulture Cathartes aura Common to abundant throughout. Lesser Yellow-headed Vulture Cathartes burrovianus Common in the lower Magdalena valley. Black Vulture (American B V) Coragyps atratus A common synanthropic throughout. King Vulture Sarcoramphus papa Several pairs seen at El Paujil and El Valle. American Osprey Pandion carolinensis Common on the coast. White-tailed Kite Elanus leucurus Seen in small numbers throughout the Andes. Pearl Kite Gampsonyx swainsonii Commonly seen near Puerto Pinzon. Swallow-tailed Kite Elanoides forficatus A few seen at El Valle. Double-toothed Kite Harpagus bidentatus Seen following White-fronted Capuchins and Geoffroy’s Tamarins. Plumbeous Kite Ictinia plumbea A few seen at El Paujil and El Valle. Slender-billed Kite Helicolestes hamatus A bird heard and taped in at El Valle. Long-winged Harrier Circus buffoni A superb male a seen in the Magdalena valley. Tiny Hawk Accipiter superciliosus Scope views of a pair near El Valle. Plain-breasted Hawk Accipiter ventralis Seen at widely scattered upland sites. White Hawk Leucopternis albicollis One adult bird seen at Utria NP. Great black Hawk Buteogallus urubitinga Several seen in the Magdalena valley and another on the coast. Common Black-Hawk Buteogallus anthracinus A couple seen in Utria NP. Savanna Hawk Buteogallus meridionalis Common in the Magdalena valley. Black-collared Hawk Busarellus nigricollis A couple seen in the Magdalena valley. Roadside Hawk Buteo magnirostris Common throughout. Broad-winged Hawk Buteo platypterus A couple seen a widely scattered forested sites. Grey-lined Hawk Buteo nitidus A single bird heard and taped out in the upper Magdalena valley. White-tailed Hawk Buteo albicaudatus A single bird seen at San Gill. Black Hawk-Eagle Spizaetus tyrannus A couple heard and another seen at El Valle. Black-and-chestnut Eagle ◊ Spizaetus isidorei A superb adult bird seen at Urrao Laughing Falcon Herpetotheres cachinnans Several seen at widely scattered sites. Barred Forest-Falcon Micrastur ruficollis (H) A single bird heard at Cerulea. Collared forest-Falcon Micrastur semitorquatus (H) Heard at El Paujil. Crested Caracara (Northern C C Northern C) Caracara cheriwayi Common to abundant throughout. Yellow-headed Caracara Milvago chimachima Common throughout. American Kestrel Falco sparverius Small numbers seen at widely scattered sites. Bat Falcon Falco rufigularis A single bird seen near El Valle. Bogota Rail ◊ Rallus semiplumbeus A superb pair seen at Parque La Florida. Brown Wood-Rail ◊ Aramides wolfi (H) A single bird heard calling distantly at El Valle. Grey-necked Wood-Rail Aramides cajanea (H) A pair heard duetting distantly at El Paujil. White-throated Crake Laterallus albigularis (H) Several heard at widely scattered sites. Common Gallinule (Laughing Moorhen) Gallinula galeata Heard and seen at Parque La Florida in Bogota. Spot-flanked Gallinule Gallinula melanops A small number seen at Parque La Florida. Sora Rail Porzana carolina A pair seen at Parque La Florida. Purple Gallinule (American P G) Porphyrio martinica A few seen at several sites throughout.

American Coot Fulica americana Small numbers seen at Parque La Florida and elsewhere. Southern Lapwing Vanellus chilensis Recorded almost daily throughout.. Semipalmated Plover Charadrius semipalmatus Not uncommon on the coast. Wilson’s Plover Charadrius wilsonia Several pairs noted at El Valle. Hudsonian Whimbrel Numenius hudsonicus Small numbers noted near El Valle. Spotted Sandpiper Actitis macularius A few seen at widely scattered sites.


Greater Yellowlegs Tringa melanoleuca Small numbers seen on the coast. Lesser Yellowlegs Tringa flavipes Several noted on the coast. Solitary Sandpiper Tringa solitaria Commonly seen throughout. Willet Tringa semipalmata A couple seen on the coast. Semipalmated Sandpiper Calidris pusilla One seen on the coast at El Valle. Pectoral Sandpiper Calidris melanotos Several on the beach at El Valle. Wattled Jacana Jacana jacana Common in the lowlands. The form involved here is black bodied. Laughing Gull Leucophaeus atricilla Up to 60 at El Valle. Royal Tern Thalasseus maximus A few noted on the coast. Elegant Tern Thalasseus elegans Four seen at El Valle. Cabot’s Tern Thalasseus acuflavides Three seen at El Valle. Large-billed Tern Phaetusa simplex Several pairs seen in the Magdalena valley. Yellow-billed Tern Srnula superciliaris Quite common on wetlands in the Magdalena valley. Ruddy Ground-Dove Columbina talpacoti A common species in open habitats. Blue Ground-Dove Claravis pretiosa A few seen and others heard at El Valle. Rock Pigeon Columba livia A common domesticate and feral species in and around human settlement. Band-tailed Pigeon Patagioenas fasciata Seen at all temperate forest sites. Pale-vented Pigeon Patagioenas cayennensis Common on the coast and in the Magdalena valley. Plumbeous Pigeon Patagioenas plumbea Noted at widely scattered sites. Ruddy Pigeon* Patagioenas subvinacea A pair seen building a nest at El Paujil. Dusky Pigeon Columba goodsoni Numerous at El Valle. Eared Dove Zenaida auriculata Abundant in open habitats. White-tipped Dove Leptotila verreauxi Fairly common in drier wooded habitats. Grey-chested Dove Leptotila cassini (H) Heard at El Paujil. Tolima Dove ◊ Leptotila conoveri Three seen near Libano. Superb views of calling birds perched in front of us. Lined Quail Dove Geotrygon linearis Seen surprisingly frequently at many sites. Ruddy Quail-Dove Geotrygon montana Several pairs heard at El Paujil. Blue-and-yellow Macaw Ara ararauna A few pairs noted at El Paujil and around Puerto Pinzon. Great Green Macaw ◊ Ara ambiguus A couple of pairs seen in Utria National Park. Chestnut-fronted Macaw Ara severus Common at El Paujil. Scarlet-fronted Parakeet Aratinga wagleri A large flock seen at Bolombolo en route to Urrao. Brown-throated Parakeet Aratinga pertinax Seen and heard in the Magdalena valley. Flame-winged Parakeet ◊ Pyrrhura calliptera Good numbers at Monte Redondo and Chingaza. Spectacled Parrotlet Forpus conspicillatus Common in the Magdalena valley Orange-chinned Parakeet Brotogeris jugularis Common at sites throughout. Rose-faced Parrot ◊ Pyrilia pulchra Fairly common at El Valle. Saffron-headed Parrot ◊ Pyrilia pyrilia (H) Heard only at Rio Claro. Rusty-faced Parrot ◊ Hapalopsittaca amazonina A pair seen very well at Soata in the Oak forests above town. Blue-headed Parrot Pionus menstruus Seen at El Paujil and El Valle in small numbers. White-capped Parrot Pionus seniloides (H) Heard only at the Colibri del Sol reserve. Red-lored Amazon Amazona autumnalis Seen very well at El Paujil and El Valle. Yellow-crowned Amazon Amazona ochrocephala Seen at many sites throughout. Orange-winged Amazon Amazona amazonica Seen very widely in more open habitats and urban areas. Scaly-naped Amazon Amazona mercenaria A pair seen at Chingaza. Very uncommon in Colombia. Mealy Parrot Amazon Amazona farinosa Common at El Paujil and El Valle. Squirrel Cuckoo Piaya cayana Commonly recorded throughout. Greater Ani Crotophaga major Seen around El Paujil and El Valle. Smooth-billed Ani Crotophaga ani Abundant throughout. Striped Cuckoo Tapera naevia A few heard at widely scattered sites. Pavonine Cuckoo Dromococcyx pavoninus (H) A single bird heard at the Cerulea reserve. Barn Owl Tyto alba One seen near Libano. Tropical Screech-Owl Megascops choliba Heard and briefly glimpsed at Cerulea. Crested Owl Lophostrix cristata Spectacular views of an adult bird at El Paujil. A group favourite and the top owl. Common Potoo Nyctibius griseus (H) Heard at El Paujil. Great Potoo Nyctibius grandis One seen at El Paujil and another found brooding by the road at El Valle.


Common Pauraque Nyctidromus albicollis Heard and seen at El Paujil. Band-winged Nightjar Caprimulgus longirostris Heard and seen on a couple of our nocturnal journeys. Chestnut-collared Swift Streptoprocne rutila Seen at several sites throughout. White-collared Swift Streptoprocne zonaris Common throughout. Band-rumped Swift Chaetura spinicaudus Small numbers seen on the coast. Grey-rumped Swift Chaetura cinereiventris Small numbers recorded in the Magdalena valley and El Valle. Short-tailed Swift Chaetura brachyura A few seen in the lowlands. White-tipped Swift Aeronautes montivagus Seen en route to Medellin. White-necked Jacobin Florisuga mellivora Common on many sets of feeders. White-tipped Sicklebill ◊ Eutoxeres aquila (L) One seen by your leader while trying to tape out the Thicket Antpitta. Rufous-breasted Hermit Glaucis hirsutus Seen at El Paujil. A widespread species. Band-tailed Barbthroat Threnetes ruckeri (H) Heard only at El Valle. Grey-chinned Hermit Phaethornis griseogularis Seen at Monte Redondo. Stripe-throated Hermit Phaethornis striigularis Common at many lowland sites. Pale-bellied Hermit Phaethornis anthophilus Seen at Ocana. White-whiskered Hermit ◊ Phaethornis yaruqui Seen at Utria National Park. Green Hermit Phaethornis guy Common at feeders at Cerulea. Tawny-bellied Hermit ◊ Phaethornis syrmatophorus One seen at feeders at the Colibri del Sol reserve. Long-billed Hermit Phaethornis longirostris Seen at El Paujil. Green-fronted Lancebill ◊ Doryfera ludovicae A couple recorded on the feeders at Cerulea. Brown Violetear Colibri delphinae Common at the feeders at Cerulea. Green Violetear Colibri thalassinus Seen at the Colibri del Sol reserve. Sparkling Violetear Colibri coruscans A common species. Purple-crowned Fairy Heliothryx barroti Seen at El Valle. Black-throated Mango Anthracothorax nigricollis Commonly recorded at feeders. Longuemare’s Sunangel ◊ Heliangelus clarisse Quite a number seen at Soata. Tourmaline Sunangel ◊ Heliangelus exortis Very common at the Colibri del Sol reserve. Speckled Hummingbird Adelomyia melanogenys Common at many reserves. Long-tailed Sylph Aglaiocercus kingi Seen at forested sites throughout. Green-tailed Trainbearer Lesbia nuna A couple found near Soata. Purple-backed Thornbill ◊ Ramphomicron microrhynchum Surprisingly numerous at the Colibri del Sol reserve. Tyrian Metaltail Metallura tyrianthina A common species. Greenish Puffleg ◊ Haplophaedia aureliae One seen at Monte Redondo. Glowing Puffleg Eriocnemis vestita Seen at Chingaza and elsewhere. Coppery-bellied Puffleg ◊ Eriocnemis cupreoventris A couple seen at Chingaza NP. Bronzy Inca Coeligena coeligena One recorded at Monte Redondo. Black Inca ◊ Coeligena prunellei Common at Rogitama and Cerulea. Collared Inca Coeligena torquata Good numbers at the Colibri del Sol reserve. Dusky Starfrontlet ◊ Coelgena orina A couple seen of the spectacular species at the Colibri del Sol reserve. Golden-bellied Starfrontlet ◊ Coeligena bonapartei Several seen in the Oak forests above Soata. Blue-throated Starfrontlet ◊ Coeligena helianthus Three or four seen at Chingaza. Mountain Velvetbreast Lafresnaya lafresnayi Fairly common at the Colibri del Sol reserve. Sword-billed Hummingbird Ensifera ensifera At least six seen at the Colibri del Sol reserve. Booted Racket-tail Ocreatus underwoodii Small numbers seen at many sites. Fawn-breasted Brilliant ◊ Heliodoxa rubinoides Uncommon . Green-crowned Brilliant Heliodoxa jacula Good numbers at many sets of feeders. White-bellied Woodstar Chaetocercus bombus Seven on the feeders at the Colibri del Solreserve. Gorgeted Woodstar Chaetocercus heliodor A superb male on the feeders at Cerulea. Red-billed Emerald ◊ Chlorostilbon gibsoni A pair or more seen on the feeders at Cerulea. Short-tailed Emerald ◊ Chlorostilbon poortmani Several noted at Rogitama. Lazuline Sabrewing ◊ Campylopterus falcatus One at Rogitama and another at Cerulea. White-vented Plumeleteer Chalybura buffonii Common at El Paujil. Violet-crowned Woodnymph ◊ Thalurania colombica Abundant at El Paujil. Green-crowned Woodnymph ◊ Thalurania fannyi a few at El Valle. Rufous-tailed Hummingbird Amazilia tzacatl Widespread and common.


Buff-tailed Coronet Buff-tailed Coronet Boissonneaua flavescens A few at the Colibri del Sol reserve. Chestnut-bellied Hummingbird ◊ Amazilia castaneiventris One bird seen at feeders at Cerulea. Andean Emerald Amazilia franciae A common and widespread species. Sapphire-throated Hummingbird Lepidopyga coeruleogularis Common in Utria National Park. Blue-chested Hummingbird Amazilia amabilis Seen on feeders at El Paujil. Indigo-capped Hummingbird ◊ Amazilia cyanifrons Common at Cerulea on the feeders. Violet-bellied Hummingbird ◊ Damophila julie One seen at El Paujil where uncommon. Golden-headed Quetzal Pharomachrus auriceps (H) One bird heard on our descent from El Colibri del Sol reserve. White-tailed Trogon Trogon chionurus Common at El Paujil and El Valle. Gartered Trogon Trogon caligatus seen and heard at El Paujil. Collared Trogon Trogon collaris Recorded at Cerulea. Masked Trogon Trogon personatus Commonly recorded at Monte Redondo and Colibri del Sol reserve.. Ringed Kingfisher Megaceryle torquata A few seen throughout. Green and rufous Kingfisher Chloroceryle inda A single bird seen near El Valle. Green Kingfisher Chloroceryle americana A few recorded. Rufous Motmot Baryphthengus martii Seen and heard at Paujil. Whooping Motmot Momotus momota (H) Heard at several sites. Andean Motmot ◊ Momotus aequatorialis Heard at many sites and one seen at Libano. Rufous-tailed Jacamar Galbula ruficauda Seen and heard at many sites. Black-breasted Puffbird ◊ Notharchus pectoralis Three seen and others heard at El Valle. Pied Puffbird Notharchus tectus Somewhat numerous at El Valle. Barred Puffbird ◊ Nystalus radiates (H) Heard only at El Paujil. White-whiskered Puffbird Malacoptila panamensis Seen at El Paujil where not uncommon. Moustached Puffbird ◊ Malacoptila mystacalis Three seen at Ocana. White-fronted Nunbird Monasa morphoeus Several pairs recorded at El Paujil. Spot-crowned Barbet ◊ Capito maculicoronatus Numerous at El Valle. White-mantled Barbet ◊ Capito hypoleucus A few pairs seen at El Paujil.


Chestnut-mandibled Toucan Ramphastos swainsonii Commonly heard and seen at El Paujil and El Valle. Choco Toucan ◊ Ramphastos brevis Common in the lowlands. Citron-throated Toucan ◊ Ramphastos citreolaemus Surprisingly numerous at El Paujil. Andean Toucanet Aulacorhynchus albivitta Seen at numerous sites in the high Andes. Black-billed Mountain-Toucan ◊ Andigena nigrirostris Seen at Chingaza and Colibri del Sol. Collared Aracari Pteroglossus torquatus commonly seen at El Paujil. Stripe-billed Aracari ◊ Pteroglossus sanguineus Rather numerous at El Valle. Acorn Woodpecker Melanerpes formicivorus Rather common in the high Andes, especially Soata.. Beautiful Woodpecker ◊ Melanerpes pulcher Several pairs at El Paujil. Black-cheeked Woodpecker Melanerpes pucherani Common at El Valle. Red-crowned Woodpecker Melanerpes rubricapillus Abundant in drier habitats. Smoky-brown Woodpecker Picoides fumigatus Several seen at widely scattered sites. Red-rumped Woodpecker Veniliornis kirkii Seen in the Magdalena valley. Yellow-vented Woodpecker ◊ Veniliornis dignus (H) Heard at a couple of sites. Golden-olive Woodpecker Colaptes rubiginosus Not uncommon at many sites. Crimson-mantled Woodpecker Colaptes rivolii A couple seen at Soata. Spot-breasted Woodpecker Colaptes punctigula (L) A single bird seen near Puerto Pinzon. Cinnamon Woodpecker Celeus loricatus Seen and heard at El Paujil and El Valle.

Lineated woodpecker Lineated Woodpecker Dryocopus lineatus A common species. Broad-billed Sapayoa ◊ Sapayoa aenigma (H) Inspite of an intensive search only heard at El Valle. Caribbean Hornero ◊ Furnarius longirostris Seen poorly in the Magdalena valley. White-chinned Thistletail Schizoeaca fuliginosa (L) Seen at Chingaza. Silvery-throated Spinetail ◊ Synallaxis subpudica Common north of Bogota. Azara’s Spinetail Synallaxis azarae Another common species in the Andes. Pale-breasted Spinetail Synallaxis albescens Heard and seen at Cerulea. Rufous Spinetail Synallaxis unirufa (H) Heard at the Colibri del Sol reserve. Slaty Spinetail Synallaxis brachyura (H) heard at El Paujil. Ash-browed Spinetail Cranioleuca curtata Several seen at Monte Redondo. Yellow-chinned Spinetail Certhiaxis cinnamomeus Common in the Magdalena valley. Spotted Barbtail Premnoplex brunnescens Seen at Cerulea where common.


Pearled Treerunner Margarornis squamiger Seen at the Colibri del sol reserve. Streaked Tuftedcheek Pseudocolaptes boissonneautii Seen at the Colibri del sol reserve Montane Foliage-gleaner Anabacerthia striaticollis Recorded at Monte Redondo and elsewhere. Lineated Foliage-gleaner Syndactyla subalaris Seen at the Cerulea reserve Buff-fronted Foliage-gleaner Philydor rufum Seen at the Cerulea Reserve Flammulated Treehunter Thripadectes flammulatus (H) Recorded at the Colibri del Sol Reserve Ruddy Foliage-gleaner Automolus rubiginosus (H) Recorded along the Bahia Solano road. Plain Xenops Xenops minutus Seen at most Pro-aves Reserves Tyrannine Woodcreeper Dendrocincla tyrannina Great views at the Colibri del sol reserve Plain-brown Woodcreeper Dendrocincla fuliginosa Seen at the El Paujil Reserve Olivaceous Woodcreeper Sittasomus griseicapillus Noted at a number of Reserves. Wedge-billed Woodcreeper Glyphorynchus spirurus Seen at the El Paujil Reserve and elsewhere. Strong-billed Woodcreeper Xiphocolaptes promeropirhynchus A pair seen at Soata where at a nest Northern Barred-Woodcreeper Dendrocolaptes sanctithomae (H) Recorded at the El Paujil Reserve Straight-billed Woodcreeper Dendroplex picus Commonly seen at most Pro-Aves Reserves Cocoa Woodcreeper Xiphorhynchus susurrans Seen commonly at many sites. Black-striped Woodcreeper Xiphorhynchus lachrymosus Seen at the El Paujil Reserve Spotted Woodcreeper Xiphorhynchus erythropygius Recorded along the El Valle trail to Utria NP. Olive-backed Woodcreeper Xiphorhynchus triangularis Seen at Monte Redondo and elsewhere. Streak-headed Woodcreeper Lepidocolaptes souleyetii Noted at the El Paujil Reserve

Montane Woodcreeper

Montane Woodcreeper Lepidocolaptes lacrymiger Seen and recorded throughout. Brown-billed Scythebill Campylorhamphus pusillus Seen superbly well at the Cerulea Reserve Great Antshrike Taraba major (H) Heard at the El Paujil Reserve Barred Antshrike Thamnophilus doliatus Seen at sites in the Magdalena valley. Bar-crested Antshrike ◊ Thamnophilus multistriatus Seen and recorded at many sites visited. Western Slaty-Antshrike Thamnophilus atrinucha A common species. Black Antshrike ◊ Thamnophilus nigriceps A single female seen and a pair heard at El Paujil. Uniform Antshrike Thamnophilus unicolor Several pairs at widely scattered sites. Recurve-billed Bushbird ◊ Clytoctantes alixii A single male seen after some effort at Ocana. Plain Antvireo Dysithamnus mentalis Seen at El Paujil. Spot-crowned Antvireo Dysithamnus puncticeps Not uncommon at El Valle. Bicoloured Antvireo ◊ Dysithamnus occidentalis Rather surprisingly one seen. Checker-throated Antwren Epinecrophylla fulviventris Several pairs noted at El Valle. Moustached Antwren Myrmotherula ignota Seen at Utria NP.


Pacific Antwren ◊ Myrmotherula pacifica Seen commonly at the Utria NP. White-flanked Antwren Myrmotherula axillaris Common in the Utria NP. Dot-winged Antwren Microrhopias quixensis Seen commonly in the Utria NP. White-fringed Antwren Formicivora grisea A pair of the form hondae noted in the Magdalena valley. (see note) Klage’s Antbird Drymophila klagesi Split from Long-tailed antbird. Heard at Ocana. Rufous-rumped Antwren ◊ Terenura callinota A pair seen at the Cerulea reserve. Dusky Antbird Cercomacra tyrannina Seen and heard at El Valle. Parker’s Antbird ◊ Cercomacra parkeri Several pairs noted at Cerulea. A recently described species. Jet Antbird Cercomacra nigricans A pair found in the Magdalena valley where not uncommon. Chestnut-backed Antbird Myrmeciza exsul Common at El Paujil and ElValle. Bicolored Antbird Gymnopithys bicolor Several seen near Bahia Solano. Black-faced Antthrush Formicarius analis Two seen El Paujil. Often split as Panamanian Antthrush F. hoffmanni Black-headed Antthrush ◊ Formicarius nigrocapillus (H) Heard at El Valle. Schwartz’s Antthrush Chamaeza turdina (H) Heard at Monte Redondo. Chestnut-crowned Antpitta Grallaria ruficapilla (H) Heard at m any sites. Cundinamarca Antpitta ◊ Grallaria kaestneri (H) Heard at Monte Redondo despite an intensive effort. Chestnut-naped Antpitta Grallaria nuchalis (H) Several heard at Colibri del Solreserve. White-bellied Antpitta ◊ Grallaria hypoleuca (H) Heard at the Cerulea reserve. Rufous Antpitta Grallaria rufula (L) One seen and others heard at Chingaza and Urrao. Urrao Antpitta ◊ Grallaria urrao Two seen at close quarters at the Colibri del Sol reserve. Streak-chested Antpitta Hylopezus perspicillatus A superb adult found singing at El Valle. Thicket Antpitta ◊ Hylopezus dives (H) Several heard at El Valle. One kept us busy for some time. Slate-crowned Antpitta Grallaricula nana (H) One heard at Monte Redondo. Ash-coloured Tapaculo ◊ Myornis senilis Seen at Chingaza. Blackish Tapaculo ◊ Scytalopus latrans Seen at Monte Redondo and the Colibri del Sol reserve. Long-tailed Tapaculo ◊ Scytalopus micropterus One seen and others heard at the Cerulea reserve. Upper Magdalena Tapaculo ◊ Scytalopus rodriguezi One seen very well at the Cerulea reserve. Paramillo Tapaculo ◊ Scytalopus canus A couple seen very well at the Colibri del Sol reserve. Pale-bellied Tapaculo ◊ Scytalopus griseicollis Seen at Soata and also at Chingaza. Ocellated Tapaculo ◊ Acropternis orthonyx A superb pair seen at the Colibri del Sol reserve. Sooty-headed Tyrannulet Phyllomyias griseiceps Seen at several locations. Black-capped Tyrannulet Phyllomyias nigrocapillus A few found at Chingaza NP. Tawny-rumped Tyrannulet Phyllomyias uropygialis A couple seen at Soata. Plumbeous-crowned Tyrannulet ◊ Phyllomyias plumbeiceps A pair found at Monte Redondo in a mixed flock. Yellow-crowned Tyrannulet Tyrannulus elatus Common. Forest Elaenia Myiopagis gaimardii Common in drier habitats. Yellow-bellied Elaenia Elaenia flavogaster Very common and widespread. Mountain Elaenia Elaenia frantzii Another common tyrannid. Brown-capped Tyrannulet Ornithion brunneicapillus Several seen at El Paujil. White-tailed Tyrannulet Mecocerculus poecilocercus Seen at the Colibri del Sol reserve. White-banded Tyrannulet Mecocerculus stictopterus Seen widely in temperate forests. White-throated Tyrannulet Mecocerculus leucophrys The commonest member of the genus. Sulphur-bellied Tyrannulet Mecocerculus minor A few seen at the Colibri del Sol reserve. Rufous-headed Pygmy-Tyrant Pseudotriccus ruficeps A pair found at Monte Redondo. Golden-faced Tyrannulet Zimmerius chrysops Very common throughout.. Marble-faced Bristle-Tyrant Phylloscartes ophthalmicus A few at Monte Redondo. Rufous-browed Tyrannulet** ◊ Phylloscartes superciliaris A pair at the Cerulea reserve. Streak-necked Flycatcher* Mionectes striaticollis A few seen at the Cerulea reserve. Olive-striped Flycatcher Mionectes olivaceus Seen at the Cerulea reserve. Ochre-bellied Flycatcher Mionectes oleagineus Common to abundant at El Paujil. Slaty-capped Flycatcher Leptopogon superciliaris Afew seen at Monte Redondo and elsewhere. Sepia-capped Flycatcher Leptopogon amaurocephalus A few seen at lowland sites. Rufous-breasted Flycatcher ◊ Leptopogon rufipectus Pairs at Monte Redondo and the Colibri del Sol reserve. Ornate Flycatcher ◊ Myiotriccus ornatus Not uncommon at Cerulea. Black-capped Pygmy-Tyrant Myiornis atricapillus A few seen at El Valle.


Southern Bentbill ◊ Oncostoma olivaceum Somewhat numerous at ElPaujil. Scale-crested Pygmy-Tyrant Lophotriccus pileatus Seen at El Paujil and Monte Redondo. Pearly-vented Tody-Tyrant Hemitriccus margaritaceiventer (H) heard in the Cauca valley. Black-throated Tody-Tyrant ◊ Hemitriccus granadensis Recorded at the Cerulea reserve. Slate-headed Tody-Flycatcher Poecilotriccus sylvia Common at many sites. Common Tody-Flycatcher Todirostrum cinereum As the name implies a numerous species. Black-headed Tody-Flycatcher Todirostrum nigriceps A pair seen at El Paujil and heard at ElValle. Pacific Flatbill Rhynchocyclus pacificus A single bird found in a mixed flock at El Valle. Yellow-olive Flycatcher Tolmomyias sulphurescens Widespread but not common. Yellow-margined Flycatcher ◊ Tolmomyias flavotectus Quite common at ElValle. Yellow-throated Spadebill ◊ Platyrinchus flavigularis A superb bird seen at the Cerulea reserve. Flavescent Flycatcher Myiophobus flavicans Several seen at Monte Redondo. Sulphur-rumped Flycatcher Myiobius barbartus Seen at El Paujil and El Valle. Ruddy-tailed Flycatcher Terenotriccus erythrurus Recorded at El Valle. Cinnamon Flycatcher Pyrrhomyias cinnamomeus Common in the temperate forests. Black-billed Flycatcher ◊ Aphanotriccus audax Rather numerous at El Paujil. Acadian Flycatcher Empidonax virescens Several seen at the Cerulea reserve. Smoke-coloured Pewee Contopus fumigatus Small numbers seen throughout. Eastern Wood-Pewee Contopus virens A few seen at the Cerulea reserve. Black Phoebe Sayornis nigricans Several seen along a number of streams. Vermilion Flycatcher Pyrocephalus rubinus Common in the Magdalena valley. Streak-throated Bush-Tyrant Myiotheretes striaticollis One seen at Chingaza and another at Colibri del Sol. Pied Water-Tyrant Fluvicola pica A few in the Magdalena valley. White-headed Marsh-Tyrant Arundinicola leucocephala Seen at the same locations as the previous species. Yellow-bellied Chat-Tyrant ◊ Ochthoeca diadema One found at the Colibri del Sol reserve. Slaty-backed Chat-Tyrant ◊ Ochthoeca cinnamomeiventris Fairly common at the Colibri del Sol reserve. Rufous-breasted Chat-Tyrant Ochthoeca rufipectoralis Quite numerous at the Colibri del Sol reserve. Brown-backed Chat-Tyrant Ochthoeca fumicolor A common upland species. Long-tailed Tyrant Colonia colonus Common at El Paujil. Cattle Tyrant Machetornis rixosa Common in open country. Piratic Flycatcher Legatus leucophaius Very common in the lowlands. Rusty-margined Flycatcher Myiozetetes cayanensis A few seen in lowland areas. Social Flycatcher Myiozetetes similis Common in the lowlands. Grey-capped Flycatcher Myiozetetes granadensis Seen at El Valle. Great Kiskadee Pitangus sulphuratus Numerous and widespread. White-ringed Flycatcher Conopias albovittatus A pair seen at El Valle. Golden-crowned Flycatcher Myiodynastes chrysocephalus Very few seen overall. Streaked Flycatcher Myiodynastes maculatus Common throughout. Boat-billed Flycatcher Megarynchus pitangua Small numbers at most lowland sites. Tropical Kingbird Tyrannus melancholicus Common. Fork-tailed Flycatcher Tyrannus savana A few seen at many sites. Rufous Mourner Rhytipterna holerythra (H) Heard at El Paujil. Western Sirystes Sirystes albogriseus Seen at El Paujil. Dusky-capped Flycatcher Myiarchus tuberculifer Not common but seen at a variety of sites. Panama Flycatcher ◊ Myiarchus panamensis Seen at El Paujil. Apical Flycatcher ◊ Myiarchus apicalis A few seen at Bolombolo. Great Crested Flycatcher Myiarchus crinitus The commonest Myiarchus flycatcher at most lowland sites. Brown-crested Flycatcher Myiarchus tyrannulus A pair in the Magdalena valley. Flammulated Attila ◊ Attila spadiceus Seen at El Paujil and heard elsewhere. Red-crested Cotinga Ampelion rubrocristatus Seen at Chingaza and the Colibri del Sol reserve. Green-and-black Fruiteater Pipreola riefferii Common at Monte Redondo. Blue Cotinga ◊ Cotinga nattereri Several seen at El Valle where maybe as common as anywhere. Black-tipped Cotinga ◊ Carpodectes hopkei Common at El Valle, which must be the best place to see this species.. Purple-throated Fruitcrow Querula purpurata Common at El Paujil and El Valle. Golden-winged Manakin ◊ Masius chrysopterus Not uncommon at Cerulea.


Western Striped Manakin ◊ Machaeropterus striolatus Several noted at El Paujil. Blue-crowned Manakin Lepidothrix coronata Several pairs recorded at El Valle. White-bearded Manakin Manacus manacus Abundant at ELPaujil of the form flaveolus. Golden-collared Manakin ◊ Manacus vitellinus A stunning species. Common at El Valle. Red-capped Manakin Pipra mentalis Quite common at El Valle. Golden-headed Manakin Pipra erythrocephala A few leks found at El Paujil. Black-crowned Tityra Tityra inquisitor Fairly common in the lowlands. Masked Tityra Tityra semifasciata Common in tropical habitats. Olivaceous Schiffornis Schiffornis veraepacis A single bird found at El Paujil. Split from Thrushlike Schiffornis Barred Becard** Pachyramphus versicolor A few pairs noted at Monte Redondo. Cinnamon Becard Pachyramphus cinnamomeus A few pairs noted at El Valle. One-coloured Becard Pachyramphus homochrous Several pairs found nest building at El Valle. Wing-barred Piprites Piprites chloris Heard and seen at Cerulea. Rufous-browed Peppershrike Cyclarhis gujanensis Common throughout. Yellow-throated Vireo Vireo flavifrons One seen at El Paujil. Brown-capped Vireo Vireo leucophrys Not seen until the Colibri del Sol reserve. Red-eyed Vireo Vireo olivaceus Not as common as usual. Rufous-naped Greenlet ◊ Hylophilus semibrunneus Seen at numerous sites throughout. Scrub Greenlet Hylophilus flavipes First seen below SanVicente. Lesser Greenlet Hylophilus decurtatus A few found in mixed flocks near El Valle. Black-collared Jay Seen at Chingaza and Monte Redondo. Black-chested Jay Cyanocorax affinis Common, especially at El Valle. Inca Jay Cyanocorax yncas Fairly common throughout. Blue-and-white Swallow Pygochelidon cyanoleuca Common to abundant. Brown-bellied Swallow Orochelidon murina Another common hirundine. Southern Rough-winged Swallow Stelgidopteryx ruficollis Quite common in the lowlands. Brown-chested Martin Progne tapera Interestingly, common at Soata. Grey-breasted Martin Progne chalybea Commonly recorded throughout. White-winged Swallow Tachycineta albiventer A few seen in the Magdalena valley. Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica Small numbers in the Magdalena valley. Scaly-breasted Wren Microcerculus marginatus Seen at Ocana and heard elsewhere. Southern House Wren Troglodytes musculus Common throughout as per usual. Sedge Wren Cistothorus platensis Common on the paramo de Susacom. Apoliner’s Marsh Wren Cistothorus apolinari A pair at Parque La Florida in bogota. Band-backed Wren Campylorhynchus zonatus A couple seen at Rio Claro. Bicoloured Wren Campylorhynchus griseus Common at many lowland sites. Sooty-headed Wren ◊ Pheugopedius spadix(H) Heard at El Paujil and Vitoria. Black-bellied Wren ◊ Pheugopedius fasciatoventris Common at El Paujil and Libano. Whiskered Wren Pheugopedius mystacalis Seen and heard at Cerulea. Colombian Wren Pheugopedius columbianus A couple of pairs at Bolombolo. Bay Wren Pheugopedius nigrocapillus A common species. Stripe-throated Wren** Pheugopedius leucopogon (H) Heard at El Valle. Niceforo’s Wren ◊ Pheugopedius nicefori Very poorly seen at Soata. Antioquia Wren ◊ Pheugopedius sernai This newly discovered species was seen in the Cauca valley. Buff-breasted Wren Pheugopedius leucotis Seen briefly and heard in the Magdalena valley. Rufous Wren Cinnycerthia unirufa Common in Chingaza and elsewhere with dense bamboo understorey. Sharpe’s Wren Cinnycerthia olivascens Seen at several locations. White-breasted Wood-Wren Henicorhina leucosticte Heard at El Paujil and seen very well at Bellavista in the rain. Grey-breasted Wood-Wren Henicorhina leucophrys Very common at many localities. Half-collared Gnatwren** ◊ Microbates cinereiventris Several pairs seen at Utria NP. Tropical Gnatcatcher Polioptila plumbea Common in the Magdalena valley. Black-capped Donacobius Donacobius atricapilla A pair of this superb songster seen in the Magdalena valley. White-capped Dipper Cinclus leucocephalus Seen above Urrao. Andean Solitaire Myadestes ralloides The distinctive vocalisation of the northern form led us to several. Grey-cheeked Thrush Catharus minimus A rare winter visitor now to Colombia.


Swainson’s Thrush Catharus ustulatus An abundant winter visitor seen at most sites. Yellow-legged Thrush Turdus flavipes Fairly common at Cerulea and Ocana. Pale-breasted Thrush Turdus leucomelas A couple seen at Ocana and El Paujil. Pale-vented Thrush Turdus obsoletus A forest thrush seen on a couple of occasions at El Paujil. Clay-coloured Thrush Turdus grayi Not a common species. Black-billed Thrush Turdus ignobilis The commonest thrush. Great Thrush Turdus fuscater Very common at higher elevations. Glossy-black Thrush Turdus serranus A few seen and many heard in temperate forests. Tropical Mockingbird Mimus gilvus Common to abundant. Rufous-crested Tanager Creurgops verticalis A few seen at Monte Redondo and elsewhere. Black-capped Hemispingus Hemispingus atropileus Seen at several locations with bamboo understorey. Superciliaried Hemispingus Hemispingus superciliaris (L) Seen in Chingaza NP. Oleaginous Hemispingus Hemispingus frontalis Not uncommon at Monte Redondo. Black-headed Hemispingus ◊ Hemispingus verticalis A couple of pairs noted at the Colibri del Sol reserve. Grey-hooded Bush-Tanager Cnemoscopus rubrirostris A common temperate zone species. Grey-headed Tanager Eucometis penicillata Seen at El Paujil. White-shouldered Tanager Tachyphonus luctuosus A few seen at El Paujil. Tawny-crested Tanager Tachyphonus delatrii Very common understorey species at El Paujil. White-lined Tanager Tachyphonus rufus A few noted. Crimson-backed Tanager ◊ Ramphocelus dimidiatus Common to abundant in the lowlands. Lemon-rumped Tanager ◊ Ramphocelus icteronotus Another very common species Flame-rumped Tanager A few seen en route to Urrao in the coffee plantations. Blue-grey Tanager Thraupis episcopus Common throughout. Palm Tanager Thraupis palmarum Only slightly less numerous than the preceding species. Blue-capped Tanager Thraupis cyanocephala A rather smart species of temperate forests. Hooded Mountain-Tanager Buthraupis montana A few seen at scattered sites. Black-chested Mountain-Tanager ◊ Buthraupis eximia A couple of pairs noted at the Colibri del Sol reserve. Lacrimose Mountain-Tanager Anisognathus lacrymosus Common at the Colibri del Sol reserve. Scarlet-bellied Mountain-Tanager Anisognathus igniventris A few noted at Monte Redondo. Blue-winged Mountain-Tanager Anisognathus somptuosus Several pairs found just above Urrao. Grass-green Tanager Chlorornis riefferii A pair seen at Monte Redondo. Buff-breasted Mountain-Tanager Dubusia taeniata Recorded at Soata. Golden-crowned Tanager ◊ Iridosornis rufivertex A fairly numerous treeline species. Fawn-breasted Tanager Pipraeidea melanonota A few noted above Soata. Black-capped Tanager Tangara heinei A small number seen at widely scattered sites. Black-headed Tanager Tangara cyanoptera A pair seen at Ocana. Burnished-buff Tanager Tangara cayana A single bird seen at Ocana. Scrub Tanager ◊ Tangara vitriolina A common species in the Magdalena valley. Golden-hooded Tanager Tangara larvata A very common species at El Valle. Blue-necked Tanager Tangara cyanicollis A common lowland species. Speckled Tanager Tangara guttata A few seen at Ocana. Blue-and-black Tanager Tangara vassorii Another common species of mixed flocks in the temperate zone. Beryl-spangled Tanager Tangara nigroviridis A fairly common species of mixed flocks. Metallic-green Tanager ◊ Tangara labradorides A couple of pairs noted atCerulea. Plain-coloured Tanager ◊ Tangara inornata Noted at several lowland sites from El Paujil to El Valle. Bay-headed Tanager Tangara gyrola Seen at El Valle where not common. Saffron-crowned Tanager Tangara xanthocephala A pair seen above Urrao. Flame-faced Tanager Tangara parzudakii Several pairs seen in mixed flocks at Monte Redondo. Golden Tanager Tangara arthus A common species in mixed flocks. Swallow Tanager Tersina viridis Seen at El Paujil. Yellow-tufted Dacnis ◊ Dacnis egregia Small numbers noted at Cerulea. Turquoise Dacnis ◊ Dacnis hartlaubi Up to six or seven found around the lodge at Cerulea. Scarlet-thighed Dacnis ◊ Dacnis venusta Fairly common at El Valle. Blue Dacnis Dacnis cayana Small numbers noted at El Valle. Purple Honeycreeper Cyanerpes caeruleus Fairly common at El Valle.


Red-legged Honeycreeper Cyanerpes cyaneus Quite numerous at El Valle. Green Honeycreeper Chlorophanes spiza A few seen at El Valle. Scarlet-browed Tanager ◊ Heterospingus xanthopygius Several pairs noted in the Utria NP. Guira Tanager Hemithraupis guira A pair noted and not generally very common in Colombia. Yellow-backed Tanager Hemithraupis flavicollis Quite commonly recorded in canopy flocks at El Paujil. Scarlet-and-white Tanager ◊ Chrysothlypis salmon Several pairs found at Utria NP. Blue-backed Conebill Conirostrum sitticolor Seen at Chingaza and the Colibri del Sol reserve. Capped Conebill Conirostrum albifrons small numbers in mixed flocks at the Colibri del Sol reserve. Rufous-browed Conebill ◊ Conirostrum rufum A few pairs seen around Bogota. Chestnut-bellied Flowerpiercer ◊ Diglossa gloriossima Two seen on the paramos at the Colibri del Sol reserve. Black-throated Flowerpiercer Diglossa brunneiventris Common at the Colibri del Sol reserve. Rusty Flowerpiercer Diglossa sittoides Small numbers seen. Glossy Flowerpiercer Diglossa lafresnayi A few seen at Chingaza. Black Flowerpiercer Diglossa humeralis Only one found above Urrao. White-sided Flowerpiercer Diglossa albilatera Common at many locations. Bluish Flowerpiercer Diglossa caerulescens Seen at Monte Redondo and elsewhere. Masked Flowerpiercer Diglossa cyanea A common species found at treeline sites. Buff-throated Saltator Saltator maximus Fairly common throughout. Black-winged Saltator Saltator atripennis Surprisingly numerous at Libano. Greyish Saltator Saltator coerulescens A common species in the lowlands. Streaked Saltator Saltator striatipectus Fairly common at Cerulea. Bananaquit Coereba flaveola Common throughout. Yellow-faced Grassquit Tiaris olivaceus Seen at many sites throughout. Black-faced Grassquit Tiaris bicolor Seenin the Magdalena valley. Rufous-collared Sparrow Zonotrichia capensis A common species at higher elevation throughout. Saffron Finch Sicalis flaveola A common species in low lying areas. Grassland Yellowfinch Sicalis luteola Several pairs seen at Parque La Florida. Blue-black Grassquit Volatinia jacarina Seen at many sites. Variable Seedeater Sporophila corvina Common around El Valle in the pastures. Grey Seedeater Sporophila intermedia Not uncommon in the Magdalena valley. Yellow-bellied Seedeater Sporophila nigricollis Again seen in the Magdalena valley at a number of sites. Ruddy-breasted Seedeater Sporophila minuta A few seen at Cerulea. Thick-billed Seed-Finch Oryzoborus funereus Seen near Puerto Pinzon and at EL Paujil. Large-billed Seed-Finch Oryzoborus crassirostris A superb adult male found near Puerto Pionzon. Band-tailed Seedeater Catamenia analis Found at Parque La Florida. Plain-coloured Seedeater Catamenia inornata Seen at Soata. Black-striped Sparrow Arremonops conirostris Common at Bolombolo. A distinctive pale race. Orange-billed Sparrow Arremon aurantiirostris Seen at Utria National Park near the lodge. Chestnut-capped Brush-Finch Arremon brunneinucha Surprisingly common at Ocana. Moustached Brush-Finch ◊ Atlapetes albofrenatus Several seen at Soata. Pale-naped Brush-Finch ◊ Atlapetes pallidinucha A good number seen at Chingaza. Yellow-headed Brush-Finch ◊ Atlapetes flaviceps A couple of pairs seen above Libano. Yellow-breasted Brush-Finch Atlapetes latinuchus A number of pairs found at Rogitama. Slaty Brush-Finch Atlapetes schistaceus A common species seen most frequently at the Colibri del Sol reserve. Dusky-faced Tanager Mitrospingus cassini Common at El Valle. Rose-breasted Grosbeak Pheucticus ludovicianus Singles seen at Cerulea and El Valle. Blue-black Grosbeak Cyanocompsa cyanoides (H) Heard at El Valle. Highland Hepatic Tanager Piranga lutea Small numbers seen throughout. Summer Tanager Piranga rubra Seen at quite a number of sites throughout. Red-hooded Tanager ◊ Piranga rubriceps One seen at the Colibri del Sol reserve. White-winged Tanager Piranga leucoptera Found at Cerulea. Sooty Ant-Tanager ◊ Habia gutturalis A pair found at El Paujil. A rather shy species. Lemon-spectacled Tanager ◊ Chlorothraupis olivacea Several birds seen in mixed flocks at El Valle. Common Bush-Tanager Chlorospingus ophthalmicus Somewhat uncommon at a number of sites. Ashy-throated Bush-Tanager Chlorospingus canigularis Common at Monte Redondo.


Tennessee Warbler Vermivora peregrina A common migrant and winter visitor. Tropical Parula Parula pitiayumi A few seen at widely scattered sites. Yellow Warbler Dendroica aestiva Small numbers throughout. Bay-breasted Warbler Dendroica castanea One of the commonest winter migrants. Blackburnian Warbler Dendroica fusca Quite incredible numbers seen throughout. American Redstart Setophaga ruticilla A few seen at Monte Redondo. Black-and-white Warbler Mniotilta varia Small numbers throughout. Northern Waterthrush Seiurus noveboracensis Seen at Parque La Florida. Mourning Warbler Oporornis Philadelphia A couple seen at Cerulea. Canada Warbler Wilsonia canadensis Fairly numerous at many sites. Slate-throated Whitestart Myioborus miniatus Common. Golden-fronted Whitestart ◊ Myioborus ornatus Very common at many sites at higher elevation. Citrine Warbler Basileuterus luteoviridis Seen at many sites, including the distinctive richardsoni form. Black-crested Warbler Basileuterus nigrocristatus Very common. Grey-throated Warbler ◊ Basileuterus cinereicollis A couple seen at Ocana. Russet-crowned Warbler Basileuterus coronatus A fairly common species at the Colibri del Sol reserve. Golden-crowned Warbler Basileuterus culicivorus Seen at most dry deciduous woodlands. Three-striped Warbler Basileuterus tristriatus Fairly common from Monte Redondo onwards. Buff-rumped Warbler Phaeothlypis fulvicauda Seen and heard at most lowland sites. Olive-crowned Yellowthroat Geothlypis semiflava (H) Heard at El Valle. Split from Masked Yellowthroat. Russet-backed Oropendola Psarocolius angustifrons Seen at many sites throughout. Chestnut-headed Oropendola Psarocolius wagleri Good numbers recorded from El Valle at their nests. Baudo Oropendola ◊ Psarocolius cassini At least 24 seen near El Valle. A very rare endemic. Northern Mountain Cacique ◊ Cacicus leucoramphus A common species of the temperate forests. Yellow-rumped Cacique Cacicus cela A couple noted on the coast and at Rio Claro.. Pacific Cacique ◊ Cacicus pacificus Quite numerous at El Valle. Subtropical Cacique Cacicus uropygialis Small numbers found at Cerulea. Orchard Oriole Icterus spurious Several birds seen near Puerto Pinzon. Yellow-backed Oriole Icterus chrysater Found at Cerulea. Yellow Oriole Icterus nigrogularis A seen in the Magdalena valley. Colombian Mountain Grackle ◊ Macroagelaius subalaris A pair seen at Soata. A very rare species now. Red-bellied Grackle ◊ Hypopyrrhus pyrrhogaster A flock of six seen briefly at La Romera. Yellow-hooded blackbird Chrysomus icterocephalus Abundant at Parque La florida. Giant Cowbird Molothrus oryzivorus Small numbers from Monte Redondo to El Valle. Carib Grackle Quiscalus lugubris Abundant in the Magdalena valley. A rapidly expanding species. Shiny Cowbird Molothrus bonariensis Seen in small numbers throughout. Great-tailed Grackle Quiscalus mexicanus Common at El Valle. Red-breasted Blackbird Sturnella militaris Numerous in the Magdalena valley and at El Valle. Eastern Meadowlark Sturnella magna Commonly recorded in pastures throughout. Andean Siskin ◊ Carduelis spinescens A few seen at Chingaza. Yellow-bellied Siskin Carduelis xanthogastra Several pairs at Cerulea and small numbers elsewhere. Lesser Goldfinch Carduelis psaltria Seen at Cerulea. Velvet-fronted Euphonia ◊ Euphonia concinna Not uncommon in the Magdalena valley. Thick-billed Euphonia Euphonia laniirostris The most widespread Euphonia. Fulvous-vented Euphonia ◊ Euphonia fulvicrissa Somewhat numerous at El Paujil. Orange-bellied Euphonia Euphonia xanthogaster Quite numerous atCerulea. Blue-naped Chlorophonia Chlorophonia cyanea (H) Heard at Cerulea. Oddly not seen in any mixed flock.


NOTES White-fringed Antwren Formicivora grisea The form recorded in the Upper Magdalena is hondae. The species as a whole has undergone taxonomic revision splitting the species into two; Southern White-fringed Antwren Formicivora grisea and Northern White-fringed Antwren Formicivora intermedia. The forms assigned to Northern White-fringed Antwren generally have a female plumage with streaked underparts while females within those taxa assigned to Southern White-fringed Antwren have unstreaked ochraceous-buff underparts. However, the female plumage in the form hondae is an unstreaked warm ochraceous buff below identical to that described for Southern White-fringed Antwren. The form hondae also differs from both intermedia and fumosa found further north in Colombia which both have streaked underparts. However, hondae has been assigned to Northern White-fringed Antwren since it would make little biogeographical sense to do otherwise. White-bearded Manakin Manacus manacus flaveolus This form is said to hybridise with Manacus vitellinus in the lower Cauca valley. Further research is needed to define species limits more accurately within the genus Manacus. A close look at contact zones between the various species as currently recognised is essential in this respect. MAMMALS Western Dwarf Squirrel Microsciurus mimulus Seen at El Valle. Others seen at El Paujil and Cerulea. Dwarf Squirrel sp Microsciurus spp It is likely that animals seen in the Magdalena valley are another species. Red-tailed Squirrel (Tropical Red S) Sciurus granatensis A few seen at ElPaujil. Geoffroy’s Tamarin Saguinus geoffroyi Several troops found at El Valle. White-fronted Capuchin Cebus albifrons A large troop found at El Paujil. A distinctive population. White-bellied Spider Monkey Ateles belzebuth A small troop seen at El Paujil. Venezuelan Red Howler Monkey Alouatta seniculus (H) Heard at El Paujil. Kinkajou Potos flavus A single animal seen at El Valle. Crab-eating Fox A pair seen at El Paujil. Tayra Eira barbara One seen El Valle and one at El Paujil. Neotropical River Otter Lutra longicaudis One seen near Puerto Pinzon. Central American Agouti Dasyprocta punctata Seen at Cerulea. Andean Cavy Several seen at Parque La Florida. REPTILES

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