THE LESSER SUNDAS TOUR REPORT

Transcription

1 THE LESSER SUNDAS 4 22 SEPTEMBER 2011 TOUR REPORT LEADER: CRAIG ROBSON The latest Birdquest to the Lesser Sundas, the seventh, logged a record 268 species. The bird of the tour was the truly awesome Flores Hawk-eagle that we found near Ruteng and Labuan Bajo. What an uplifting experience it was to see this unique and stunning raptor sailing majestically around the steep forested slopes of its home. Number two was the fantastic little Flores Scops-owl that performed so well for us, as we sat motionless in the damp, dark forest understorey; an unforgettable experience. Other highlights during the tour included Sumba Buttonquail, lengthy scope views of Timor Black Pigeon and Barred-necked Cuckoo-dove, Timor Imperial Pigeon, Citron-crested Cockatoo and Yellow-crested Cockatoo, Wallace s Hanging-parrot, as-long-as-you-like views of the declining Olive-shouldered Parrot, Australian Barn Owl, a roosting Moluccan Scops-owl in broad daylight, good spotlight views of Sumba, Little Sumba and Streaked Boobooks (the latter also seen in daytime), close encounters with the freshly split Timor Nightjar, Sumba Hornbill, multiple sightings of Cinnamon-banded and White-rumped Kingfishers, excellent perched and feeding views of Elegant Pitta, multiple sightings of Chestnut-capped, Chestnut-backed and Orange-sided Thrushes, superb views of Black-banded Flycatcher, Flores Monarch, and Timor Sparrow. A vagrant Hardhead on Sumba was most unexpected, as were three Asian Dowitchers that we found on Timor. Our extra birding opportunities on Bali added an impressive pre-roosting flock of 13 Black-winged Mynas and a scoped Javan Kingfisher. Thankfully the weather was more typical this year, and we had rain on only one evening in the field, for a short period. For the second year running, we began the birding activities in the Uluwatu area, at the southern tip of Bali, and this increasingly birdy area did not disappoint us. This is a recently discovered site for the now very much threatened Black-winged Myna the poor man s Bali Myna! It kept us waiting this time and only gave good flight views at fairly close range, but the total of 13 birds was totally unexpected, as this is a large number these days for the species. Javan Mynas were also plentiful, with at least 30. We also had nice scope views of a Javan Kingfisher, but the surprise of the visit was the sighting of two Lorikeets that flew in and perched in front of us. At first we hoped that they might be the near-endemic mitchellii race of Sunset Lorikeet that is being re-introduced to nearby Nusa Penida (from Lombok stock), but unfortunately they appeared to be Marigold Lorikeets that had presumably been released from captivity! A thorough search of the cliff-top scrub and woodland also brought us Spot-breasted Woodpecker (part of the Fulvous-breasted Woodpecker divide), our first White- 11 Birdquest: The Lesser Sundas 2011

2 shouldered Triller, Small Minivet, Striated Grassbirds, Olive-backed Tailorbird, and Common Iora. Seawatching produced distant foraging Wilson s Storm-petrels, a couple of female Lesser Frigatebirds, and brief glimpses of two or three distant rorqual whales that were thought to be Bryde s. On our first morning of the tour, before a relatively early flight to Sumba, we had time to do some birding around Benoa Harbour. Arriving just before sunrise, and as the tide began to fall, we were soon notching-up a good range of shorebirds. Apart from a single rather distant Javan Plover, we found another dozen or so wader species, with the best being Far Eastern Curlew, Grey-tailed Tattler and Terek Sandpiper. There was the usual scattering of Javan Pond-herons, Little Pied Cormorants, Sunda Teal, Gull-billed and Little Terns, and Sacred and Small Blue Kingfishers. The mangrove edge and coastal scrub produced a couple of Savanna Nightjars, a good number of Island Collared-doves, several Flyeaters, Pied Fantail, Plain Prinia, and a nice male Scarlet-headed Flowerpecker that posed for a long time. Fly-overs included a handful of White-headed Munias (several close ones), two writein Javan Munias, and a Black-crowned Night-heron Amazingly, the flight to Sumba (via Kupang) left on time. A couple of Australian Pratincoles were spotted on the runway at Kupang airport, and we arrived at Waingapu with time to check into the hotel and enjoy a late lunch. The afternoon was spent at the Yumbu Grasslands, in search of our first endemic, Sumba Buttonquail. The first sweep through relatively long grass produced little, but during the return effort, we soon flushed a pair. Over the next hour, we had a number of good flight views, and some of us were lucky enough to get a brief view of one on the ground. Apart from the buttonquails, there were good numbers of Australasian Bushlarks and Zitting Cisticolas, a flock of Zebra Finches, and several Indonesian Honeyeaters. A juvenile Brown Goshawk was unexpected. Our first morning on Sumba was spent at the freshwater wetlands of Menggitimbe, to the east of Waingapu. There was plenty of water this year in the primary wetland, and consequently hundreds of Pacific Black Ducks and Sunda Teal. Amongst these, we were lucky enough to see a single Hardhead, a vagrant from Australia that has been recorded in Asia fewer than 10 times although numbers have recently been discovered in Timor Leste (East Timor). The fact that it was a new bird for the leader, could be determined by the unique body-language. A Pied Heron was another good sighting from the same region, but we first discovered this individual here several years ago, when it was still a juvenile. White-headed Stilts and Javan Plovers were prominent as usual, the latter even with a tiny chick, and Bar-tailed Godwit and Long-toed Stint added some variety. A nice Australian Pratincole was scoped. Along the edge of the reed-swamp we flushed a couple of Cinnamon Bitterns, there were a few Australian Swamphens, a couple of White-browed Crakes, and some showy Australian Reedwarblers. Further down the road a little we had a few hundred Wandering Whistling-ducks flying around some other swampy wetlands. After lunch in Waingapu, we drove the 90 minutes to our new accommodation at the homestay in Lewa, and in the afternoon began our exploration of some forest patches nearby. Conditions were hot and dry, but it soon began to cool-off. A string of common regional birds kept us busy, including our first Pale-shouldered Cicadabirds, but it was not until late-on that we really hit the jackpot. First a nice Cinnamon-banded Kingfisher sat out for us for lengthy scope views as the skies darkened, we had a male Sunda Nightjar fluttering and gliding all around us and, just after nightfall, we immediately connected with our main target of the evening, Little Sumba Boobook. This rather recently described diminutive boobook is often rather light-shy, so it was great to watch one full-on for about 30 seconds. For our second day on Sumba, we headed off very early to look for Citron-crested Cockatoo at Watumbelar. Arriving at the forest edge just as the sun rose, we were able to get great flight views of Great-billed and Eclectus Parrots, and a good number of brightly marked Marigold Lorikeets. Next-up was a perched Red-naped Fruit-dove at scope distance, a much admired endemic, as well as our first Wallacean Cuckoo-shrikes and Lesser Wallacean Drongos. Several of the group saw a Chestnut- 22 Birdquest: The Lesser Sundas 2011

3 backed Thrush. Then Sue picked out a perched Sumba Green-pigeon, and we all managed to get a look before it flew off. Finally our vigil paid off and a beautiful Citron-crested Cockatoo flew right in to the trees at the edge of the forest, in perfect light. Heading back through the clearings we had some decent views of Apricot-breasted Sunbird and some rather elusive Black-faced and Five-coloured Munias amongst the hoards of Red Avadavats. Raptors were good, with adult Chinese Sparrowhawk and Brown Goshawk both seen well perched, a displaying pair of Pacific Bazas, and Spotted Kestrel. Most unexpected, were the 14 or so Blue-breasted Quail that we flushed - a write-in for the tour. After lunch and a quick nap, we birded along the road at Langgaliru. Although slow at first, things soon picked up. Prolonged views of a pair of Sumba Jungle-flycatchers feeding at close range were followed by some action in a flowering tree, where we were all able to watch a lovely male Sumba Red-headed Honeyeater feeding with a pair of Brown-throated Sunbirds and a Marigold Lorikeet. Dave was lucky enough to see an elusive Sumba Flycatcher, which was later heard by us all. Further down the road, three Sumba Green-pigeons sat-up nicely on some dead snags. As the skies darkened, we positioned ourselves for Sumbas other endemic owl, Sumba Boobook, which soon obliged with superb prolonged views of a pair with their wings spread in irritation, calling back at us. On our last full day on Sumba we continued the search for the last few remaining endemics that we still had not seen. The morning was a little slow, but we managed great scope views of Sumba Greenpigeon in perfect light, and a brilliant Chestnut-backed Thrush. More Sumba Jungle-flycatchers and Sumba Red-headed Honeyeaters showed well, but a Sumba Flycatcher picked-out low down by the leader only showed fleetingly for a couple of group members. Unexpected, were a pair of Citroncrested Cockatoos that Cathryn found, preening each other in the early morning sunlight. Just before lunch, back at the homestay, we checked out Roger Littlewood s munia stakeout, and were treated to scope views of both Pale-headed and the more restricted-range Five-coloured. In the afternoon we hired some local guides from Langgaliru village to take us to a good area for hornbills, as they were proving really difficult this year. A long wait at the proposed place produced only one distant flying female for the leader only! It was a pretty demoralizing end to the day, apart from some nice views of the floresiana race of Common Kingfisher. Before heading off to the airport for our flight to Kupang, we had time for another three hours or so looking for the hornbill. The plan was working well apart from the fact that it was inexplicable misty for at least the first 90 minutes of the day!! By the time this cleared, the temperature was already rising, and activity was easing off. We had our best views of Arafura Fantail so far, and a singing Broad-billed Flycatcher was new. Marigold Lorikeet showed beautifully above us, and there were distant scope views of Pacific Baza, and Great-billed Parrot; but no hornbills. We headed off back to the bus and then, miraculously, a superb pair of Sumba Hornbills appeared, like a vision, in a dead tree-top close to the trail. The mixture of pleasure and relief amongst us was tangible we had left it right until the last moment! This year, conditions were as dry as ever on Timor. Our first day in the field, at Bipolo, was long, tiring and very eventful. As usual, from dawn, there was a constant stream of new species, many of which were endemics. As we slowly walked through the open logged forest, we found Fawn-breasted Whistler, Red-chested Flowerpecker, Timor Blue Flycatcher, Timor Figbird, Flame-breasted Sunbird, Black-chested, Yellow-eared and Streak-breasted Honeyeaters, Orange-sided Thrushes, Olive-brown Oriole, and Timor Friarbird. Several lovely Rose-crowned Fruit-doves sunned themselves in the early morning light, and we had some pretty good looks at several Olive-headed Lorikeets, which was an unexpected bonus. A fly-by Olive-shouldered Parrot was too quick, but we were to catch up with this much sought-after king parrot later on. It was getting hot when we entered the fields mid-morning, but fortunately the semi-overcast conditions and an unusually strong breeze kept us relatively cool. Our target-bird, Timor Sparrow was located pretty rapidly, and we eventually found several feeding amongst straw on the ground, with a flock of Black-faced Munias. Crossing an open area of fields, we added small numbers of White-faced Herons and Australian Pratincoles, Short-toed Eagle, both White-breasted and Black-faced Woodswallows, Striated Swallows, and Tree Martin. Before lunch we 33 Birdquest: The Lesser Sundas 2011

4 had a look around the fish-ponds and saltworks. Many were dry, but we still had a good selection of shorebirds, with Red-capped Plover, Far Eastern Curlew, Marsh and Sharp-tailed Sandpipers, Rufousnecked Stint, and Curlew Sandpiper being particularly notable. A lengthy spell studying both the Asian affinis and Australasian macrotarsa forms of Gull-billed Tern, resting together, was most educational. After lunch we visited nearby Bariti, where we succeeded in seeing the Oliveshouldered Parrot for the third year running. This time there was a big gathering, feeding on the seedpods of the large, non-native acacia-like trees. Although we counted 15, there were probably many more. Pink-headed Imperial Pigeon was more elusive this year, with one bird staying for only a short spell in the scope. We also got our first looks at White-bellied Chat. Quickly returning to Bipolo we positioned ourselves for a boobook once more and, as night fell, we found the single Yellow-crested Cockatoo that we first saw here in Just at dark, we had good looks at Streaked Boobook in the spotlight, and even managed to get it in the scope. The following morning saw us searching for a much-reduced number of endemics at nearby Camplong. By late morning, after much hard work, most of us had connected with the lovely Blackbanded Flycatcher, skulking Buff-banded Thicket-warbler and Timor Stubtail, and the ridiculously hyper-active Spot-breasted Dark-eye. Gould s Bronze Cuckoo showed better than on the previous day, while a couple more Orange-sided Thrushes were noted, and Sunda Bush-warbler provided added interest. After a much appreciated restaurant lunch, we returned to Bariti, where we spent a couple of hours scanning the attractive looking forested slopes in the distance. The strong wind probably contributed to our poor return for the effort, but it had been worth a shot looking for fly-over pigeons. On the way back to the vehicles at dusk, we stumbled across a full adult male Tricoloured Parrotfinch in bamboo clumps by a dry streambed a fantastic and most unexpected bonus bird. Leaving Kupang behind, we headed inland and uphill to Soe. On the way we spent a few more hours at Camplong. More Spot-breasted Dark-eyes were seen soon after dawn, and we had some further good views of Black-banded Flycatcher and the thicket-warbler. Martinus, our local guide, managed to see two Tricoloured Parrotfinches coming to a small stream whilst keeping an eye on our things! A 90 minute drive took us to our charming local hotel in Soe and after lunch and a welcome break, we made our first visit to Oelnasi, an area of monsoon forest 15km back towards Kupang. Is wasn t long before we heard the distinctive wolf-whistle of a Barred-necked Cuckoo-dove, and we soon tracked it down to an open tree where we could scope-it-up. Further along, a couple of smart Black-backed Fruit-doves sat up at the edge of a clearing. Working our way to the best area for Timor Black Pigeon, we soon heard one, and it turned out to be a real performer, giving us many nice views and also doing a display flight for us. As it got dark we returned to a small clearing, in time to hear the recently split Timor Nightjar when it began to utter its unique territorial call. Great views were had by spotlight and, just to round things off nicely, a pair of Australian Barn Owls (a recent split from Barn Owl) were spotlighted flying around us calling. A superb afternoons birding! The next morning we were up very early, in order to negotiate the very bad road to West Timor s highest mountain, Gunung Mutis. Again, the weather was a complete contrast to the previous year, being sunny, clear and warm. We had a fine view of the summit cone before our search for the secretive Timor Imperial Pigeon began. This year, we encountered a single bird that hardly called, and only a few of us were lucky enough to get a reasonable view of the bird. We had more success with Metallic Pigeon, including one that we scoped. Lorikeets were also relatively scarce, with perhaps only Olive-headeds flying over calling. We had great looks at two different Timor Pygmy Wren-babblers, a likely future split, several Chestnut-backed Thrushes were seen, a pair of Timor Friarbirds were scoped in the early morning sun, good numbers of Timor Leaf-warblers and Yellow-breasted Warblers showed well, and there were particularly large numbers of Island Thrushes this year. Several Snowy-browed Flycatchers also drew our attention, along with the numerous Mountain White-eyes. 44 Birdquest: The Lesser Sundas 2011

5 Our last day on Timor began with a very pleasant morning at Oelnasi, where it was very birdy during the early hours. Four Barred-necked Cuckoo-doves performed beautifully, and we had our best view yet of Gould s Bronze Cuckoo, Cinnamon-banded Kingfisher, White-bellied Chat, Buff-banded Thicket-warbler and Timor Stubtail. A Streaked Boobook was tracked-down and scoped in broad daylight, but unfortunately did not linger. After lunch at the hotel in Soe, we headed off for Kupang, making a couple of interesting stops along the way. First we visited ricefields at Oesau, where we soon spotted at least 24 Oriental Plovers at one of their regular stop-off points en route to their Australian wintering grounds. Then, nearby, we explored the Olio River Mouth, an extensive area of inter-tidal mudflats on the shore of Kupang Bay. The tide was just falling when we arrived and there was an excellent variety of shorebirds. Amongst a good-sized flock of Eastern Black-tailed Godwits, Dave and Craig picked-out an Asian Dowitcher, and we were to see three in total; perhaps only the ninth record from Wallacea! Also good were small numbers of Far Eastern Curlew, our first Lesser Sand-plover of the tour, loads of Terek Sandpipers, small numbers of Grey and Pacific Golden Plovers, Ruddy Turnstone, and Whiskered, Little and Gull-billed Terns (macrotarsa and affinis). Offshore, a couple of very distant shearwaters were thought to probably be Streaked. From the Kristal Hotel in Kupang, we added Brown Booby and Bridled and Common Terns, as well a two distant Wilson s Storm-petrels. In a slight change to our normal itinerary, we took a short early morning flight to Bajawa on Flores instead of Ruteng as originally planned. It was an interesting three hour drive to our accommodation at the Catholic Seminary in Kisol. A short stop and walk along the road brought great views of both Thick-billed and Crested Dark-eyes, as well as our first Black-fronted Flowerpecker and the yellow bellied unicus form of Oriental White-eye. In the afternoon, we made our first birding sortie to the nearby forest at Kisol. The afternoon was quite slow as usual here, but we did have superb perched views through the scope of Elegant Pitta, and a close encounter with a pair of wing-whooshing Flores Crows. Several Moluccan Scops-owls called just as it was getting dark, but wouldn t play ball. Much of the following morning was spent scanning the slope of Gunung Pacandeki for Flores Hawk-eagle, without success. Little Minivets and a Brown-capped Fantail, as well as close views of Black-fronted Flowerpecker provided scant compensation. Two different perched Variable Goshawks were good though. In the afternoon, we continued the wait for the hawk-eagle from a new clearing which provided a total view of the hill-slopes. Still there was no sign. The clearing itself was quite popular though, with pairs of Gould s Bronze Cuckoo and Wallacean Cuckoo-shrike being particularly notable. Sunda Nightjar showed after dark but Moluccan Scops-owl evaded us again. Birding began predawn the following morning, in search of the elusive Wallace s Scops-owl. We heard one several times, but its habit of flying hundreds of metres after each call series made it impossible to catch up with. We went back up to view the slopes of Gunung Pacandeki one last time. From our superb high vantage point, we spent another three hours looking for Flores Hawk-eagle without success. We had spent a total of eight and a half hours scanning the slopes where the bird is normally seen, in fine clear weather, without sight nor sound, and its absence this trip was of considerable concern, especially considering increased human activities in the area. On the way to the site we did manage to see Elegant Pitta foraging at liberty on the ground, and there were two separate scope views of White-rumped Kingfisher. A Dark-backed Imperial-pigeon at unusually low elevation, was heard calling close by but out of view. After lunch we headed into the hills and our accommodation in Ruteng. A brief stop at Rana Mese on the way saw us fogged-out. After a quick turn-around in Ruteng, we headed up to Golo Lusang, south of town. The sun was already down, but before everything went to roost, we managed to squeeze-in a point-blank scope view of Flores Jungle-flycatcher, a pair of vocalizing Flores Leaf-warblers, and our first Yellow-browed Dark-eye. Later on, at nightfall, our second Wallace s Scops-owl called briefly. Then we heard the faint calls of a pair of Flores Scops-owls. Soon they were very close, and suddenly one shot in above us. As soon as the light went on, it freaked and flew off, revealing but a bunch of 55 Birdquest: The Lesser Sundas 2011

6 shaking leaves. A lengthy duel ensued, resulting only in overhead flight views, and numerous close encounters with this terribly elusive owl. The next morning was spent along a minor road north of Ruteng, that skirts the forested slopes from near Pagal down to Gapong. Arriving not too long before sunrise, there was plenty of activity, and it was to be a busy morning by and large. There were multiple views of the endemic Flores Lorikeet, multiple scopings of White-rumped Kingfisher and Chestnut-backed Thrush, a perched view of the local (and likely splitable) form of Bonelli s Eagle, some great roadside looks at Russet-capped Tesia, Black-backed Fruit-dove, perched Little Cuckoo-dove, many Thick-billed Dark-eyes, numerous Crested Dark-eyes etc. etc. Unfortunately there was no sign of Wallace s Hanging-parrot, and the red flowering Erythrina trees that they often favour, were not at their best. In the afternoon, we visited Golo Lusang again. We had to work around some low cloud and brief rain showers, but still managed quite a few birds. Most notable were two, seldom seen, female Bare-throated Whistlers, one of which we were able to study at length. Some groups of Flores Lorikeet showed very nicely and there were some good mixed bird-waves, with Flores Leaf-warbler, Flores Jungle-flycatcher and Yellow-browed Dark-eye all featuring again. Russet-capped Tesia sat up for a lengthy spell in roadside weeds. We moved on in search of Flores Scops-owl as darkness fell. After carefully secreting ourselves in the forest understorey, we prepared for another tricky effort. A responsive bird soon came in however, and perched just above our heads in a small tree. Over the next few minutes we were to get some incredible views of this secretive little owl staring and glaring down at us and making short, illuminated flights from perch to perch. We had never dreamt that we would see it at all, never mind like this! Well satisfied we headed back to Ruteng. Amazingly, on the way, a Wallace s Scops-owl swooped down to catch a prey item right in front of the bus. We were so close to hitting the bird that our local guide, Martinus, checked under the vehicle to see if was trapped in the undercarriage! Unfortunately it was scared right off and it was pretty well missed by all except the leader and driver. Further along the road, another Wallace s Scops-owl called but once. Our last full day in the Flores highlands began with the incredible dawn chorus of Bare-throated Whistlers at Golo Lusang. Even before dawn we were admiring these terrific songsters through the scope, belting-it-out across the mountain slopes. Several Scaly-crowned Honeyeaters followed, as well as good looks at the local race of Pygmy Wren-babbler and a pair of responsive Mountain Tailorbirds. We saved the best until last however when two raptors were spotted over a distant ridge, one much bigger than the other. The small one turned out to be an adult Rufous-bellied Eagle, but the bird it was mobbing was a stunning Flores Hawk-eagle! The eagle came somewhat nearer and landed in a tree, where it was aggressively dive-bombed by the Rufous-bellied. Later we were to have much closer prolonged flight and perched views. What an incredible bird, and to think of all the time that we had spent waiting for it at Kisol without a sniff. The afternoon was spent at Pagal again in search of Wallace s Hanging-parrot and the green-pigeon. There was no sign, and a search for calling Wallace s Scops-owls after dark also proved fruitless. The highlight of the afternoon was a family party of Bonelli s Eagles, consisting of an adult pair and juvenile, that we scoped for a long time. One of the adults presented the other with a prey item that appeared to be a galliform or rallid. We had to make a very early start the next morning, and travel west for a dawn visit to Puarlolo, in search of the endemic Flores Monarch. The monarch performed well this year, and we had all had satisfying views within an hour of our arrival. Soon after connecting with the monarch we also all got onto a beautiful Chestnut-capped Thrush that showed several times by the trail. Deciding to follow our guide Martinus s lead, and check the roadside forest for the green-pigeon, we were most fortunate to catch a vivid green and red Wallace s Hanging-parrot as it flew directly along the road below tree height, before dipping over a ridge. Unbelievable luck, as we have never seen the species here before. Contented, we enjoyed a pleasant roadside coffee break, and then headed off for a bit of luxury in the Bintang Flores Hotel in Labuan Bajo. Before lunch, a quick sortie around the grounds turned-up the desired Lemon-bellied White-eye, feeding on flowers just above us. In the afternoon we birded the Potawangka Road which branches-off at the outskirts of Labuan Bajo. Reaching a small 66 Birdquest: The Lesser Sundas 2011

7 stream, we stumbled across a cracking pair of Rufous-backed Kingfishers. After watching them for a while, a calling raptor was noted and suddenly Martinus called Flores Hawk-eagle. Unbelievably, another of these stunning raptors flew in and perched in a small tree-top at remarkably close range. We must have scoped and photographed it for over half an hour, and it roosted in the area. A single Great-billed Parrot was heard going to roost and, as the sky, we had a Sunda Nightjar low overhead. Moluccan Scops-owl continued to be elusive, but a good number of Orange-footed Scrubfowl were heard giving their weird nocturnal calls. On our last day in the Lesser Sundas we made the journey to Komodo National Park. We boarded our boat before dawn and grabbed a couple more hours of sleep as we cruised across the straits. We awoke not long before dawn and, on the way into the island, enjoyed some bow-riding Indo-pacific Bottle-nosed Dolphins, a logging pod of Risso s Dolphins, our first Bulwer s Petrel, Great-billed Heron and Red-necked Phalarope. After being allotted our park guide, we were soon staring at several huge Komodo Dragons and, later on, we even saw a few in their natural habitat. A walk through the dry woodlands brought many superb male Green Junglefowl, scope views of Komodos most important bird, the critically endangered Yellow-crested Cockatoo, and an unexpected Barred Buttonquail. On the beach, a fishing Great-billed Heron was seen unbelievably well. Heading off to the cafeteria for a cold drink, Martinus managed to spot us a roosting Moluccan Scops-owl. This was a great bonus and it was a fantastic clear scope study. Heading back to Labuan Bajo with our eyes glued to the sea, we added more Bulwer s Petrels and Red-necked Phalaropes, but little else. Our last birding of the tour was a walk along the beach, from our hotel down to the river mouth. A selection of shorebirds included a high count of 35 Javan Plovers. Some of us were lucky enough to glimpse a Stork-billed Kingfisher, and on the way back we had lovely flight views of three Woolly-necked Storks. 77 Birdquest: The Lesser Sundas 2011

8 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). Subspecies names are given where known and/or appropriate, either in a comment or in parentheses. PROCELLARIIDAE Bulwer s Petrel Bulweria bulwerii: We counted eight during the Komodo-Labuan Bajo boat-ride. There are rather few observations from the Lesser Sundas, but that is probably because so few birdwatchers have done pelagic trips here. Streaked Shearwater Calonectris leucomelas: Two distant birds in Kupang Bay, seen from the Olio River Mouth, were thought to be this species. HYDROBATIDAE Wilson s Storm-petrel Oceanites oceanicus: A few were seen distantly from the cliffs at Uluwatu, and another two from the seafront at the Kristal Hotel, Kupang. FREGATIDAE Lesser Frigatebird Fregata ariel: Two females at Uluwatu, and an adult male and two immatures during the sea crossing from Labuan Bajo to Komodo. PHALACROCORACIDAE Little Black Cormorant Phalacrocorax sulcirostris: Two at Menggitimbe, Sumba, and one near Labuan Bajo. Little Pied Cormorant Phalacrocorax melanoleucos: Several at Benoa Harbour, Menggitimbe, Pan Muti, and near Labuan Bajo. SULIDAE Brown Booby Sula leucogaster: Two were seen distantly offshore from the Kristal Hotel, Kupang. ARDEIDAE Great-billed Heron Ardea sumatrana: At least two were seen during our visit to Komodo, including a very confiding individual that we watched swallowing a large fish, on the beach by the main jetty. Another was seen at the river mouth near Labuan Bajo. Purple Heron Ardea purpurea: Good numbers at both Benoa Harbour and Menggitimbe. Great Egret (Great White Egret) Egretta alba: Regular sightings of this widespread species (modesta). Pied Heron Egretta picata: A single bird at Menggitimbe, which we first found here as a first year in 2008; when it was new to the island. Intermediate Egret (Yellow-billed E) Egretta intermedia: Common this year at Menggitimbe. White-faced Heron Egretta novaehollandiae: Six in the Bipolo to Pan Muti area, and another at the Olio River Mouth. Probably mainly a non-breeding visitor from Australia. Little Egret Egretta garzetta: Regular observations of this widespread bird. Mostly the blackish-footed race nigripes. Pacific Reef-egret Egretta sacra: Good numbers at Komodo and the west Flores coast (nominate race). Both pale and dark morphs were seen. Eastern Cattle Egret Bubulcus coromandus: Regularly seen. Javan Pond-heron Ardeola speciosa: Regular observations, particularly at Benoa, Bali, where at least 50 were noted (nominate race). Some were in full breeding plumage. Little Heron (Striated H, Green-backed Heron) Butorides striatus: One at Yumbu, on Sumba, two at Pan Muti, and one at Olio. Black-crowned Night-heron Nycticorax nycticorax: One flying over at Benoa Harbour, Bali. Cinnamon Bittern Ixobrychus cinnamomeus: Two flushed at Menggitimbe. 88 Birdquest: The Lesser Sundas 2011

9 CICONIIDAE Woolly-necked Stork Ciconia episcopus: A circling group of three near our hotel at Labuan Bajo. ACCIPITRIDAE Pacific Baza Aviceda subcristata: A pair displaying at Watumbelar and another bird at Langgaliru on Sumba. Lesser Sundan timorlaoensis. Oriental Honey-buzzard Pernis ptilorhyncus: One circling overhead at Camplong. Black-winged Kite Elanus caeruleus: One or two at Bipolo (hypoleucos). Black Kite Milvus migrans: Small numbers of affinis on Sumba, and at Pan Muti, near Bipolo. Brahminy Kite Haliastur indus: Regularly seen (intermedius). White-bellied Sea-eagle Haliaeetus leucogaster: Regular sightings, around Labuan Bajo and Komodo NP. Short-toed Eagle Circaetus gallicus: Singles of the nominate race were seen at Bipolo, and Bariti on Timor. Chinese Sparrowhawk (C Goshawk) Accipiter soloensis: An adult perched at Watumbelar. Brown Goshawk Accipiter fasciatus: A hunting juvenile at Yumbu, and a couple of adults at Watumbelar; tjendanae. Variable Goshawk Accipiter hiogaster: An adult and juvenile were scoped separately at Kisol. Subspecies sylvestris. The form in Australia and Tasmania is normally considered a separate species now: Grey Goshawk A. novaehollandiae. Bonelli s Eagle Hieraaetus fasciatus: Prolonged scope views of a pair and a juvenile at Pagal. One of the adults delivered a galliform- or rallid-like prey item to the other adult, which ate the lot!. This is the distinctive race renschi, which some people are mooting as a distinct species. It is smaller and more heavily marked than its distant mainland relatives. Rufous-bellied Eagle Hieraaetus kienerii: An adult was seen at Golo Lusang, mobbing the Flores Hawk-eagle; a potentially very dangerous manoeuvre! Flores Hawk-eagle Spizaetus floris: After wasting over eight hours waiting to see this amazing bird at Kisol, we ended up finding two apparently new sites for it! First, we jammed-in on an adult near Golo Lusang, and then an even closer bird that sat for ages in a relatively small tree-top, right in front of us, calling. What luck, and we ended up with way better views than on any previous tour - such is the life of a birder! This massive eagle is restricted to the islands of Flores, Sumbawa, Komodo and Paloe, and surely ranks close to the Philippine Eagle. It was a clear winner of the bird of the trip award. FALCONIDAE Spotted Kestrel (Moluccan Kestrel) Falco moluccensis: Many observations of this widespread falcon (microbalia). ANATIDAE Wandering Whistling-duck Dendrocygna arcuata: At least 250 at Menggitimbe. Sunda Teal Anas gibberifrons: Quite large numbers were seen this year on all islands, including 150 or so at Menggitimbe. Pacific Black Duck Anas superciliosa: The race rogersi was found on Sumba and Flores, with at least 150 at Menggitimbe. Three on the river near Langgaliru were unexpected. Hardhead (White-eyed Duck) Aythya australis: One with other ducks at Menggitimbe. An Austral vagrant, and the first to be seen on Sumba. The species may breed at Lake Iralalaro in Timor Leste, where <100 birds have recently been seen, and this bird may have come from there. MEGAPODIIDAE Orange-footed Scrubfowl Megapodius reinwardt (H): A good number were heard giving their creepy night time calls along the Potawangka Road, west Flores. It is becoming increasingly difficult to see now on Komodo, due to visitor-disturbance. 99 Birdquest: The Lesser Sundas 2011

10 PHASIANIDAE Brown Quail Coturnix ypsilophora: A handful were flushed at Yumbu on Sumba, and three in the paddyfields at Bipolo. The race is raaltenii. Blue-breasted Quail Coturnix chinensis: About 14 were flushed from fields, and seen quite well at times in flight, at Watumbelar. Red Junglefowl Gallus gallus (H): Small numbers were heard on Timor, where it is probably of introduced origin. Green Junglefowl Gallus varius: Regularly heard. Seen fleetingly at Uluwatu and Langgaliru, and then finally seen commonly and easily on Komodo. TURNICIDAE Sumba Buttonquail Turnix everetti: One presumed pair at the Yumbu grasslands, near Waingapu. Apart from many good flight views, one or two of us managed to get onto one on the ground, though briefly. It is considered as Endangered by BirdLife International, and territorial voice is still undescribed. Barred Buttonquail Turnix suscitator: A female on Komodo was unexpected, and this is a hard bird to get on the tour. Subspecies powelli. RALLIDAE White-browed Crake Poliolimnas cinerea: Two at Menggitimbe. The nominate race. White-breasted Waterhen Amaurornis phoenicurus: Scattered, on Bali and Sumba. Heard on Flores, at Pagal. Common Moorhen Gallinula chloropus: Common at Menggitimbe (orientalis), where it breeds. Australian Swamphen Porphyrio melanotus: Four were seen nicely at Menggitimbe, where it presumably also breeds. RECURVIROSTRIDAE White-headed Stilt Himantopus leucocephalus: Plenty at Menggitimbe and Pan Muti. CHARADRIIDAE Grey Plover (Black-bellied P) Pluvialis squatarola: At least ten at both Benoa Harbour and Olio River Mouth, including several still in breeding plumage. Pacific Golden Plover Pluvialis fulva: Small numbers at Benoa and Olio, and then a flock of about 40 near Labuan Bajo. Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius: A non-breeding adult and two juveniles at Pan Muti. The race is unclear. Javan Plover Charadrius javanicus: Only one at Benoa, Bali, but at least ten at Menggitimbe (including a tiny chick). The best count was 35 on a rising tide line near Labuan Bajo however. Red-capped Plover Charadrius ruficapillus: Only about ten at Pan Muti this year, but some nice ones. A visitor from Australia, or recent colonist; it breeds in Timor Leste. Lesser Sand-plover (Mongolian P) Charadrius mongolus: Just two singles this year, at the Olio River Mouth, Timor, and near Labuan Bajo. Greater Sand-plover Charadrius leschenaultii: Quite common at Benoa, Olio, and near Labuan Bajo. Oriental Plover Charadrius veredus: At Oesau, 29 km from Kupang, there is a major staging area for this much sought-after plover. 24 was our best count this year. SCOLOPACIDAE Eurasian Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus: One of the commonest shorebirds, and seen throughout (variegatus). The best gathering was on the rising tide line near Labuan Bajo. Eurasian Curlew Numenius arquata: About eight at Benoa, Bali Birdquest: The Lesser Sundas 2011

11 Far Eastern Curlew Numenius madagascariensis: Just one of these near-threatened curlews at Benoa, another in flight at Pan Muti, and about eight at the Olio River Mouth. Eastern Black-tailed Godwit Limosa melanuroides: Around 120 at the Olio River Mouth, a good count for this region. A number of authorities are now splitting this distinctive form from Black-tailed Godwit L. limosa. Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica: One at Benoa, more surprisingly one at Menggitimbe, small numbers at Olio, and one near Labuan Bajo. Asian Dowitcher Limnodromus semipalmatus: Three were mixed-in with the Eastern Black-tailed Godwits at Olio. This is perhaps only the fourth Timor record, and ninth from Wallacea as a whole. Around 500 individuals of this near-threatened species are thought to winter in Australia. Common Redshank Tringa totanus: 50 were noted on the mudflats at Benoa (eurhinus). Marsh Sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis: At least eight at Pan Muti, and a couple at Olio. Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia: Regular sightings throughout, with a maximum of 10 estimated at Benoa. Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola: Six at Menggitimbe on Sumba, and five at Pan Muti on Timor. Terek Sandpiper Xenus cinereus: Two at Benoa, one at Pan Muti, at least 30 at Olio, and ten near Labuan Bajo. Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos: Many sightings, with the largest concentration being about 20 at Benoa Harbour. Grey-tailed Tattler Heteroscelus brevipes: Two on the mudflats at Benoa, a good number in Kupang Bay, and one near Labuan Bajo. Ruddy Turnstone Arenaria interpres: One on the mudflats at Benoa, and another at Olio. Rufous-necked Stint (Red-necked Stint) Calidris ruficollis: 84 at Pan Muti, and about 100 at Olio. Long-toed Stint Calidris subminuta: Two feeding in the muddy bits at Menggitimbe. Sharp-tailed Sandpiper Calidris acuminata: Seven at Pan Muti and three at Olio. Always nice to see. Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea: Just three at Pan Muti this year. Red-necked Phalarope Phalaropus lobatus: Around 40 were counted during the boat trip to Komodo, with many close-in. GLAREOLIDAE Australian Pratincole Stiltia isabella: A good year, with small numbers at Kupang Airport, one at Menggitimbe, six at Bipolo, and five at Oesau. STERNIDAE Whiskered Tern Chlidonias hybridus: Three or so at the Olio River Mouth. Gull-billed Tern Gelochelidon nilotica: At Benoa, six birds were thought to be affinis. In contrast, a mixed resting flock at Pan Muti on Timor, held around 15 Australasian macrotarsa, in both breeding and non-breeding plumages, and a single affinis in breeding plumage. Similarly, a single at the Kristal Hotel and a good number at Olio were also macrotarsa, with only one affinis noted (non-breeding plumage) at the latter location. The difference between the two forms is marked, and it seems highly possible that macrotarsa (Largefooted or Long-legged Tern) will be split in the future. Common Tern Sterna hirundo: A flock of about eight were seen from the Kristal Hotel. Bridled Tern Sterna anaethetus: One seen feeding with Greater Crested Terns from the Kristal Hotel. It is now placed in the genus Onychoprion, with Sooty and Aleutian Terns. Little Tern Sterna albifrons: Just a few at Benoa Harbour, but plenty along the shore of Kupang Bay. Greater Crested Tern Sterna bergii: Widespread at sea. COLUMBIDAE Rock Pigeon (Rock Dove, Feral Pigeon) Columba livia: Scattered throughout, but still generally uncommon in the Lesser Sundas Birdquest: The Lesser Sundas 2011

12 Metallic Pigeon Columba metallica: On Timor, a handful at Gunung Mutis and one at Oelnasi. Formerly lumped in White-throated Pigeon Columba vitiensis. Island Collared Dove (I Turtle-D) Streptopelia bitorquata: Fairly common at Benoa, an unexpected pair at Puarlolo, and a handful on Komodo. Spotted Dove Streptopelia chinensis: Regular throughout the tour (tigrina). Barred Cuckoo-dove Macropygia unchall: One was scoped feeding on berry-like fruits at Golo Lusang. Barred-necked Cuckoo-dove (Dusky C-d) Macropygia magna: Multiple observations and five different birds at Oelnasi. It is one of the largest cuckoo-doves, and restricted in range to the east Lesser Sundas and islands off south Sulawesi. This was the nominate race. Little Cuckoo-dove Macropygia ruficeps: Ten or so on Sumba, and a handful at Pagal on Flores. The race is said to be orientalis throughout. Timor Black Pigeon (Slaty Cuckoo-dove) Turacoena modesta: Some excellent views of a calling bird at Oelnasi, Timor. Even seen doing a rocking, floating display-flight, with tail fanned. Emerald Dove Chalcophaps indica: Regular observations on Sumba and Flores. Green-winged Pigeon Chalcophaps longirostris: Many good flight sightings in the Timor forests, and even seen perched briefly by some. Formerly lumped in Emerald Dove, the specific name longirostris is the correct one (rather than timorensis). Barred Dove (Timor Zebra D) Geopelia maugei: Regular sightings. Endemic to the south-eastern Moluccas and Lesser Sundas. Pink-necked Green Pigeon Treron vernans: Ten or so at Uluwatu, Bali. The nominate race. Sumba Green Pigeon Treron teysmannii: A big improvement on last year, with several scoped really well. It is considered as Near-Threatened by BirdLife International. Black-backed Fruit-dove Ptilinopus cinctus: Seen fairly frequently; the nominate race on Timor, and the grey-hooded albocinctus on Flores. Red-naped Fruit-dove Ptilinopus dohertyi: Very scarce this year due to an apparent shortage of fruiting trees. Only two noted, thankfully with good scope views of one. It is considered as Vulnerable by BirdLife International. Rose-crowned Fruit-dove Ptilinopus regina: This superb fruit-dove was commonly observed in the Timor forests (flavicollis). Black-naped Fruit-dove Ptilinopus melanospila: This widespread, though beautiful little fruit-dove was encountered on many occasions on Sumba and Flores (melanauchen). Green Imperial Pigeon Ducula aenea: Regular observations of this widespread species in the Sumba, Flores and Komodo forests (polia). Pink-headed Imperial Pigeon Ducula rosacea: This small island and coastal forest species is becoming very tough to find on Timor these days. For the third year running we found it in a plantation of tall trees at Bariti, near Bipolo. Just one this year though. Dark-backed Imperial Pigeon Ducula lacernulata (H): Unfortunately we only heard it this year on Flores, including one at Kisol (sasakensis). An Indonesian endemic which is restricted to the western Lesser Sundas, Java and Bali. Timor Imperial Pigeon Ducula cineracea: On Gunung Mutis, a few of us were lucky enough to see this shy and elusive endemic. Sue did best, getting here binoculars onto the bird when it was perched. Endemic to Timor and Wetar, and considered as Endangered by BirdLife International. PSITTACIDAE Marigold Lorikeet Trichoglossus capistratus: An even better year than 2010 for this colourful regional endemic. At least 31 were seen on Sumba, and we had great perched views in the scope. Two lorikeets that we saw at Uluwatu on Bali also appear to be this species, so must have been escaped or released birds. This is a recent split in the Rainbow Lorikeet complex, involving the races fortis (Sumba) and capistratus (Timor); and is only found on these islands Birdquest: The Lesser Sundas 2011

13 Flores Lorikeet Trichoglossus weberi: Good numbers perched and in flight at the only two sites where we see the species; Pagal and Golo Lusang. Bears little resemblance to Rainbow Lorikeet, with which it was formerly lumped. Olive-headed Lorikeet Trichoglossus euteles: Best seen this year at Bipolo, where some of us got onto a perched bird, and four were seen in total were seen shooting by at Gunung Mutis. Endemic to the central Lesser Sundas. Yellow-crested Cockatoo Cacatua sulphurea: Rather sluggish and quiet on Komodo this year, due to the hot and dry weather. We did manage to scope a pair for a while though. One was also seen again at Bipolo, Timor, where we first noticed it in The race at both sites is parvula. This spectacular species is restricted to Sulawesi and the Lesser Sundas. It has declined dramatically over much of its range in the past twenty years. With a population now estimated at less than 5000 birds, it is considered to be Critically Endangered by BirdLife International. Citron-crested Cockatoo Cacatua citrinocristata: We didn t have to wait that long at Watumbelar this time, with one coming in to perch nicely at the forest edge. Cathryn spotted a pair later on at Langgaliru, where it is much less often seen, snuggling up together on a branch. Voted joint fifth favourite bird of the tour. It used to be lumped in Yellow-crested Cockatoo, but it has a very distinctive orangey crest and cheeks. Eclectus Parrot Eclectus roratus: Only one male was seen, but well in flight, at Watumbelar on Sumba. The isolated race cornelia. Red-cheeked Parrot Geoffroyus geoffroyi: Frequently encountered during the tour with observations on Sumba and Flores (floresianus), and Timor (geoffroyi). Great-billed Parrot Tanygnathus megalorhynchos: A handful of sumbaensis on Sumba, including scope views. It was encouraging again to hear one of the nominate race going to its roostsite along the Potawangka road, west Flores. Another species that has declined over much of its range. Olive-shouldered Parrot Aprosmictus jonquillaceus: The best year yet for this highly distinctive and locally declining king parrot. At least 15 were seen coming to seed-pods at Bariti, including one flock of eight. Another was seen in flight at Bipolo, and a couple were heard at Oelnasi. Endemic to the islands of Timor, Roti and Wetar, and considered to be Near-Threatened by BirdLife International. Wallace s Hanging-parrot Loriculus flosculus: We finally ran out of luck with this scarce Flores endemic at Pagal this year. Fortunately one was seen well in flight at Puarlolo, where we have never seen it before. It is considered as Endangered by BirdLife International and its population may be as little as a few thousand birds. CUCULIDAE Sunda Cuckoo Cuculus lepidus: Often heard in the hill forests of Flores; Roger Clifft managed to spot one at Golo Lusang. One was also heard on Gunung Mutis, Timor. A fairly recent split from Oriental Cuckoo C. horsfieldi along with Himalayan Cuckoo C. saturatus. Rusty-breasted Cuckoo (Indonesian Cuckoo) Cacomantis sepulcralis: Frequently heard on Sumba and Flores. One came in amazingly close at Watumbelar. The nominate race throughout. A calling dependant juvenile was seen at Puarlolo, but we could not spot the host-species. Brush Cuckoo Cacomantis variolosus (H): Only heard this year on Timor. Gould s Bronze Cuckoo Chrysococcyx russatus: Commonly heard, and seen on a number of occasions on Timor (cf. russatus) and Flores (jungei). Australian Koel Eudynamys cyanocephala: Several males were seen in flight on Sumba and others heard. Also heard on Timor. CENTROPODIDAE Lesser Coucal Centropus bengalensis: Occasional sightings of this widespread species (javanensis) Birdquest: The Lesser Sundas 2011

14 STRIGIDAE Eurasian Barn-owl Tyto alba: One was seen flying across the road on the way to Pagal from Ruteng, and another was heard at our accommodation in Ruteng itself. The fairly widespread race javanica. Australasian Barn-owl Tyto delicatula: Two were spotlighted flying around us and calling, as we looked for Timor Nightjar at Oelnasi. This is a well-documented and un-disputed split from Tyto alba. Flores Scops-owl Otus alfredi: We had the best views ever of this difficult little endemic forest scopsowl in the highlands of Flores. Well secreted inside its forest home, we had a prolonged encounter with a calling bird in a small tree just above us. For some, it was the best views of any scops-owl that they had ever had, so we were a bit spoilt this time around! It was originally only known from three specimens collected on Mount Repok in 1896, but was rediscovered near Ruteng in At first, its voice was misidentified as that of Redlegged Crake, but was finally figured out in the early 2000 s, since which there have been regular observations. It is considered as Endangered by BirdLife International. Moluccan Scops-owl Otus magicus: After failed attempts to see the species after dark at Kisol and along the Potawangka Road on Flores, Martinus spotted us a fantastic roosting bird on Komodo, in broad daylight. Absolutely superb, and voted joint fifth favourite bird of the tour. The subspecies is albiventris. Wallace s Scops-owl Otus silvicola: A leader- and driver-only bird this year, with one swooping down onto a prey item right by the roadside at the pass at Golo Lusang. It soon vanished when we got out to look for it. A single bird was heard too distantly at Kisol, and two more very briefly near Golo Lusang. Sumba Boobook Ninox rudolfi: A pair came out right on cue and performed in a dead tree near Lewa; rotating with wings lowered. This endemic is considered to be Near-Threatened by BirdLife International. Little Sumba Boobook (Sumba Hawk-owl) Ninox sumbaensis: Seen very easily and well this year. Two in total and others heard, in forest patches near Lewa. This Sumba endemic is a species with a checkered history, as it was first recorded in 1991, when it was thought to be a member of the genus Otus. It was only formally described in Coates & Bishop mention this species under Scops-owl Otus sp? on p.361. Streaked Boobook Ninox fusca: Excellent spotlit views of this Timor endemic at Bipolo, and another scoped in the daytime at Oelnasi, where several others were heard. Coates & Bishop have it lumped in the Southern Boobook Ninox novaeseelandiae. CAPRIMULGIDAE Timor Nightjar Caprimulgus sp.: This endemic nightjar is actually in the process of being split from the widespread Large-tailed Nightjar, We had brilliant views of a responsive male in a small forest clearing at Oelnasi. A second bird was also seen, and we heard two others. Formerly it was considered to be of the Wallacea-wide schlegelii form, but Timor birds sound nothing like those from other parts of the range, for example the Moluccas, which are quite typical of Large-tailed. Sunda Nightjar (Mees's Nightjar) Caprimulgus meesi: Good views as usual along the forest edge at KM51 near Lewa, Sumba, at Kisol, and again along the Potawangka Road, west Flores. Only found on Flores and Sumba, it was previously unrecognised as a species due to its lack of morphological distinctness, Sangster & Rozendaal (2004) described it on the basis of its vocalisations, which differ significantly from those of Large-tailed. Savanna Nightjar Caprimulgus affinis: Two flushed in the daytime at Benoa, and a couple heard at the Olio River Mouth on Timor Birdquest: The Lesser Sundas 2011

15 APODIDAE Edible-nest Swiftlet Collocalia fuciphaga: Common throughout. The nominate race on Bali, relatively pale rumped micans on Sumba and Timor, and relatively dark rumped dammermani on Flores. Rump colour is apparently variable within forms however. Glossy Swiftlet (White-bellied S) Collocalia esculenta: Common in the Lesser Sundas. The subspecies are neglecta on Timor, and sumbawae on Sumba and Flores. On-going DNA research apparently shows the former to be a good species (Timor Swiftlet), and the latter to be a race of Linchi. Linchi Swiftlet (Cave S) Collocalia linchi: Common on Bali (dedii). Fork-tailed Swift (Pacific S) Apus pacificus: Small numbers of the nominate race at Bariti on Timor. House Swift Apus affinis: Common at Uluwatu on Bali, where they presumably breed on the cliffs. HALCYONIDAE White-rumped Kingfisher Caridonax fulgidus: As usual, we had great looks at several birds on Flores. Restricted in range to that island, as well as Sumbawa, Lombok and Besar. The genus Caridonax is one of the few that are endemic to the Lesser Sundas. Stork-billed Kingfisher Halcyon capensis (NL): One was seen by a few of us at the river mouth near our hotel at Labuan Bajo (floresiana). Collared Kingfisher Halcyon chloris: Many observations of the nominate race. Sacred Kingfisher Halcyon sancta: Regular sightings of this visitor from Australia (nominate race), mainly along coasts. Javan Kingfisher Halcyon cyanoventris: One of these Java and Bali endemics was lured-in and scoped at Uluwatu. I nice bonus. Cinnamon-banded Kingfisher Halcyon australasia: Several great views this time of three different nominate singles: at KM51 on Sumba, and at Bipolo and Oelnasi on Timor. Considered to be Near-Threatened for some reason by BirdLife International. ALCEDINIDAE Rufous-backed Kingfisher Ceyx rufidorsa: A lovely pair by a small stream along the Potawangka Road. Coates & Bishop have this species lumped with Black-backed Kingfisher C. erithaca as Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher, using the latter scientific name C. erithacus for the enlarged species. Small Blue Kingfisher Alcedo coerulescens: This Indonesian endemic was quite common at Benoa Harbour. Common Kingfisher Alcedo atthis: Several birds that we saw near Langgaliru, Sumba were of the resident floresiana race, which is endemic to the Lesser Sundas. Two seen at Pan Muti, Timor were perhaps also this form. MEROPIDAE Blue-tailed Bee-eater Merops philippinus: Regular sightings of this handsome species, on Bali, Sumba, Timor and Flores. Rainbow Bee-eater Merops ornatus: This visitor from Australia was commonly encountered on Timor, while 20 were also seen at Kisol and another along the Potawangka Road on Flores. Chestnut-headed Bee-eater Merops leschenaulti: Six or so at Uluwatu, Bali. CORACIIDAE Common Dollarbird Eurystomus orientalis: Dave saw one at Langgaliru, Sumba, and we then had singles on Komodo and along Potawangka Road. All pacificus Birdquest: The Lesser Sundas 2011

16 BUCEROTIDAE Sumba Hornbill Rhyticeros everetti: In complete contrast to last year, we really struggled. Luckily, right at the last minute, we connected with a pair at close range, along the river near Langgaliru. Craig had seen a distant flying female nearby on the previous evening. Voted third favourite bird of the trip, not least because we all thought we had missed it! With a population that is thought to number less than 4000 birds and declining, it is considered as Vulnerable by BirdLife International. PICIDAE Spot-breasted Woodpecker Dendrocopos analis: Two of the nominate race were seen at Uluwatu, and another in mangroves at Benoa. This species was formerly lumped in Fulvousbreasted Woodpecker D. macei of the northern Indian subcontinent and western and northern Myanmar. Sunda Pygmy Woodpecker (Brown-capped W) Dendrocopos moluccensis: This widespread woodpecker was frequently encountered on Flores (grandis). The only woodpecker across Wallace s line. PITTIDAE Elegant Pitta Pitta elegans: A bird that everyone always wants to see. This year, we had great views of perched and foraging birds at Kisol, Flores (concinna). Commonly heard. ALAUDIDAE Australasian Bushlark Mirafra javanica: On Sumba, common at the Yumbu grasslands, and also seen at Menggitimbe, Watumbelar, and Lewa (parva). HIRUNDINIDAE Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica: Scattered sightings. Pacific Swallow Hirundo tahitica: Small numbers scattered throughout (javanica). Striated Swallow Hirundo striolata: The nominate race was seen on Sumba, Timor, and Flores, with a high count of 50 at Pagal, Flores. Tree Martin Hirundo nigricans: A good year, with many seen on Timor; where it is a breeding resident (timoriensis). MOTACILLIDAE Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea (H): One was heard calling in flight at Golo Lusang. Paddyfield Pipit (Oriental P) Anthus rufulus: Regular observations throughout; albidus on Bali, Sumba, Flores and Komodo, and medius on Timor. CAMPEPHAGIDAE Wallacean Cuckoo-shrike Coracina personata: A few observations of this relatively widespread species. We saw sumbensis on Sumba, and pale-vented floris on Flores and Komodo. Pale-shouldered Cicadabird (Sumba C) Coracina dohertyi: We saw plenty of these monotypic west Lesser Sundan endemics on both Sumba and Flores. White-shouldered Triller Lalage sueurii: Seven on Bali and then regular observations on Timor. Small Minivet Pericrocotus cinnamomeus: A pair at Uluwatu; the race saturatus of Java and Bali, here at the extreme southern edge of the species range. Little Minivet (Flores M) Pericrocotus lansbergei: This elegant Flores and Sumbawa endemic was commonly encountered on Flores. AEGITHINIDAE Common Iora Aegithina tiphia: Quite common at Uluwatu, Bali Birdquest: The Lesser Sundas 2011

17 PYCNONOTIDAE Sooty-headed Bulbul Pycnonotus aurigaster: About ten of the nominate race at Uluwatu, 20 along the forest edge at Bipolo, and four at Oelnasi. All had yellow undertail-coverts. Presumed to be escapes at the latter location, and not recorded for Timor by Coates & Bishop. Yellow-vented Bulbul Pycnonotus goiavier: Very common on Bali (analis). DICRURIDAE Lesser Wallacean Drongo Dicrurus bimaensis Fairly common on Sumba (sumbae) and common on Flores and Komodo (nominate). A recent split from following species, and much more easily seen. ORIOLIDAE Olive-brown Oriole (Timor O) Oriolus melanotis: Quite a few on Timor this year (nominate race), and easily seen. Endemic to Timor, Wetar, Roti and Semau. Black-naped Oriole Oriolus chinensis: This widespread and well known species was seen on Sumba, Flores, and Komodo. One of the more orange-yellow races was involved: broderipii, with very broad black lateral head-bands. Timor Figbird Sphecotheres viridis: Good numbers were seen well at various sites on Timor, where it favours fruiting trees. Endemic to Timor, Roti and Semau; a split from Australasian (or Green) Figbird S. vieilloti. CORVIDAE Flores Crow Corvus florensis: Several of these strange endemic corvids were seen well at Kisol, and we had others at Puarlolo and along the Potawangka Road. With its noisy wing-beats and comical calls, this really is an oddity, and is considered to be Endangered by BirdLife International. Southern Jungle Crow Corvus macrorhynchos: Regular sightings throughout. This is a good split from the other members of the Large-billed Crow complex (Large-billed Crow C. japonensis, Indian Jungle Crow C. culminatus, and Eastern Jungle Crow C. levaillantii). See Rasmussen & Anderton s Birds of South Asia. PARIDAE Grey Tit Parus cinereus: Not uncommon on Sumba, Flores and Komodo; at the extreme eastern edge of its range. A recent split in the Great Tit P. major complex. TIMALIIDAE Pygmy Wren-babbler Pnoepyga pusilla: Two were seen very well around rock outcrops in the highland forest of Gunung Mutis, Timor (timorensis), and many others heard. Also seen very well near Golo Lusang on Flores (everetti). The race on Timor is morphometrically and vocally distinct, and may well be split in future, while the Flores bird also exhibits vocal differences from mainland populations. TURDIDAE Chestnut-capped Thrush Zoothera dohertyi: We all got onto a fairly responsive bird, right by the trail at Puarlolo. This superb thrush is apparently monotypic, although this seems highly unlikely. Chestnut-backed Thrush Zoothera dohertyi: Rather commonly encountered this year, being seen well at several sites on Sumba, Timor and. This monotypic Lesser Sunda endemic is considered as Near-Threatened by BirdLife International, though it is hard to see why. Orange-sided Thrush (Orange-banded T) Zoothera peronii: A total of six of these lovely thrushes on Timor. This is the nominate race, and the species is restricted to the islands of Timor, Wetar, Babar, Romang and Damar. It is considered as Near-Threatened by BirdLife International Birdquest: The Lesser Sundas 2011

18 Island Thrush Turdus poliocephalus: Abundant and easily seen again on Gunung Mutis this year. The form here is schegelii, which is similar to several other regional races. There are no fewer than 52 so-called subspecies of this standing joke of a species. Pied Chat Saxicola caprata: Another widespread species that we encountered on Sumba (francki), Timor (pyrrhonota), and Flores (fruticola). White-bellied Chat (White-bellied Bushchat) Saxicola gutturalis: Several excellent views of this open forest inhabitant on Timor (nominate race), at Bariti and Oelnasi. It is endemic to Timor, Roti and Semau and is considered to be Near-Threatened by BirdLife International. It is hard to believe that it is threatened though, considering its habitat requirements. PARDALOTIDAE Flyeater (Golden-bellied Gerygone) Gerygone sulphurea: Two seen on Bali, and then widely distributed at all altitudes on Flores (nominate race). Plain Fairy Warbler (P Gerygone) Gerygone inornata: This endemic of Timor, Roti, Wetar and Sawu was common in various Timor forests. A highly distinctive and frequently heard song, the soundtrack of Timor. SYLVIIDAE Russet-capped Tesia (R-c Stubtail) Tesia everetti: Frequently encountered on Flores (nominate race), with many sightings; being best seen along the road near Pagal. Endemic to Sumbawa and Flores. Timor Stubtail Urosphena subulata: At least seven of these tiny warblers were seen feeding and moving (surprisingly swiftly) through the leaf-litter at Camplong and Oelnasi, and it was widely heard (by those that could hear it!). It is restricted to Timor, Wetar and Babar. Sunda Bush-warbler (Indonesian Bush-warbler) Cettia vulcania: Great views of everetti at Camplong and Gunung Mutis. Australian Reed-warbler Acrocephalus australis: The Clamorous-type reed warblers at Menggitimbe and Pan Muti, sound and look like they are best aligned with this species. Olive-backed Tailorbird Orthotomus sepium: This endemic of Java & Bali was encountered several times at Uluwatu this year, and was a tour write-in. Mountain Tailorbird Orthotomus cuculatus: Excellent close views of a pair at Golo Lusang (everetti). DNA studies have shown that it is not remotely related to tailorbirds, and it is currently called Phyllergates cucullatus. Timor Leaf-warbler Phylloscopus presbytes: Many of these single island endemics were seen well on Gunung Mutis, and there were two at Oelnasi. Flores Leaf-warbler Phylloscopus floris: Common enough in the highland forests of Flores. An endemic that was recently split from the previous species. Yellow-breasted Warbler Seicercus montis: Several were seen really well on Gunung Mutis this year (paulinae), as well as at Golo Lusang, Flores (floris). A widespread species. Tawny Grassbird Megalurus timoriensis: One was flushed at Watumbelar, but slipped away. Striated Grassbird Megalurus palustris: Last years write-in at Uluwatu was seen there again this year. Buff-banded Thicket-warbler (B-b Bushbird) Buettikoferella bivittata: This unusual Timor endemic was as tricky as ever, but we eventually all got decent views either at Camplong or Oelnasi. The genus Buettikoferella is one of the few that are endemic to the Lesser Sundas. CISTICOLIDAE Zitting Cisticola (Fan-tailed Warbler) Cisticola juncidis: Several encounters with this well-known species on Sumba and Timor (fuscicapillus). Heard en route on Flores. Golden-headed Cisticola (Bright-capped Cisticola) Cisticola exilis: Three showed well at Bipolo, Timor (lineocapilla). Bar-winged Prinia Prinia familiaris: Another bonus-bird on Bali, where a pair showed very well at Benoa Birdquest: The Lesser Sundas 2011

19 Plain Prinia Prinia inornata: One at Benoa. MUSCICAPIDAE Flores Jungle-flycatcher Rhinomyias oscillans: Easily seen again this year in the Flores highlands. A bird was seen flying to its nest to feed calling chicks at Golo Lusang; a mossy cup wedged into a rock-crevice by the roadside. Endemic to Sumbawa and Flores. This and the next species are not typical Rhinomyias flycatchers and exhibit whistler-like behaviour. They should not be in the same genus as mainland South-East Asian Rhinomyias. Sumba Jungle-flycatcher Rhinomyias stresemanni: Another good year for this endemic, with at least eight noted. A recent split from the previous species. Snowy-browed Flycatcher Ficedula hyperythra: Six of these familiar little flycatchers were seen on the lower slopes of Gunung Mutis (clarae). Sumba Flycatcher Ficedula harterti: Two different birds were found near Langgaliru. but only about half of us managed to get onto one. It is not a Ficedula flycatcher, being more similar to the so-called Rhinomyias flycatchers of this region. Little Pied Flycatcher Ficedula westermanni: Small numbers on Timor and Flores. Black-banded Flycatcher Ficedula timorensis: Easily seen again this year at Camplong, with a pair and a male seen perched very well. This striking little flycatcher is considered as Near- Threatened by BirdLife International. Timor Blue Flycatcher Cyornis hyacinthinus: The nominate race was common on Timor. Otherwise, only occurs on the islands of Roti, Semau, and Wetar. Its assignation to this genus seems dubious, and nothing about the bird says Cyornis, apart from colour. MONARCHIDAE Black-naped Monarch Hypothymis azurea: Quite common on Flores and Komodo (prophata). Asian Paradise-flycatcher Terpsiphone paradisi: Regularly recorded on Sumba (sumbaensis) and on Flores (floris). We saw several white males. The song on Sumba, at least, is completely different to that of mainland South-East Asian populations. Flores Monarch Monarcha sacerdotum: At least five of these little-known and striking monarchs were seen at Puarlolo, and relatively easily this year. It is endemic to the western half of Flores and was only discovered in 1971 (described in 1973). It then disappeared for many years until fairly sizable populations were found in the 1990 s. It is considered as Endangered by BirdLife International. Spectacled Monarch Monarcha trivirgatus: Just three wee seen on Sumba (nominate race). Broad-billed Flycatcher (B-b Monarch) Myiagra ruficollis: Two of these odd boat-billed monarchs on Sumba, including a singing bird. The nominate race. RHIPIDURIDAE Pied Fantail Rhipidura javanica: One at Benoa. Northern Fantail Rhipidura rufiventris: The nominate race was one of the commonest forest birds on Timor. It does not adopt the characteristic fanned-tail posture of most fantails. Brown-capped Fantail Rhipidura diluta: This Sumbawa, Flores and Lomblen endemic was frequently seen in the highlands of Flores; the nominate race. Perhaps waggletail would be more appropriate! Arafura Fantail Rhipidura dryas: This recent split from Rufous Fantail R. rufifrons was common on Sumba (sumbensis) and on Timor and to a lesser extent Flores (semicollaris). PETROICIDAE Grey-headed Flycatcher (G-h Canary-flycatcher) Culicicapa ceylonensis: Several on Sumba (connectens), and Flores (sejuncta). Although a well-known and widespread Asian species, the birds here have markedly different vocalisations and lack the slightly crested appearance of mainland forms Birdquest: The Lesser Sundas 2011

20 PACHYCEPHALIDAE Fawn-breasted Whistler Pachycephala orpheus: Common on Timor. Its song is much more distinctive than its plumage. Endemic to Timor, Wetar, Jaco and Semau. Common Golden Whistler (Golden Whistler) Pachycephala pectoralis: We recorded this widespread and bird on Sumba (fulviventris), Timor (calliope), and Flores and Komodo (fulvotincta). An amazing 64 subspecies have been described. Bare-throated Whistler Pachycephala nudigula: With its magnificent and extremely varied, powerful song, this is one of the most wanted birds on this tour, and was voted fourth favourite bird of the trip. We had several good sightings at Golo Lusang, and even saw two seldom seen females. It is endemic to Sumbawa and Flores, and this was the nominate race. ARTAMIDAE White-breasted Wood-swallow Artamus leucorynchus: Widespread but infrequent sightings (albiventer). Black-faced Wood-swallow Artamus cinereus: One of these mainly Australian species in the ricepaddies near Bipolo (perspicillatus). LANIIDAE Long-tailed Shrike Lanius schach: Small numbers on Bali and Timor (bentet). STURNIDAE Short-tailed Starling Aplonis minor: Regularly recorded. Black-winged Myna (B-w Starling) Acridotheres melanopterus: It was a big bonus to see this declining, or should one say seriously persecuted bird at Uluwatu on the south coast of Bali. We had to wait right until the last minute, but the total of 13 birds was exceptional. The race was Balinese tertius. Javan Myna Acridotheres javanicus: Sightings on Bali, where it is native, totalled around 30 birds. Two were also seen on Sumba, where it is presumed to be introduced. Coates & Bishop confusingly include it in A. cinereus (Pale-bellied Myna) of SW Sulawesi, under the common name White-vented Myna. MELIPHAGIDAE Timor Friarbird (Plain F) Philemon inornatus: We made regular observations of this fairly inconspicuous Timor endemic. Helmeted Friarbird Philemon buceroides: Widespread and very vociferous. Recorded on Sumba and Flores (neglectus) and on Timor (nominate race). Streak-breasted Honeyeater (S-b Meliphaga) Meliphaga reticulata: Fairly common on Timor, but there were relatively few flowering trees again this time. Endemic to Timor and Semau. Scaly-crowned Honeyeater Lichmera lombokia: A few were seen at Golo Lusang, including one that we scoped preening for a long time. It is endemic to Lombok, Sumbawa and Flores. Indonesian Honeyeater Lichmera limbata: Many sightings on Sumba and Timor. It was previously lumped in Brown Honeyeater L. indistincta of Australia and New Guinea. Yellow-eared Honeyeater Lichmera flavicans: Quite scarce again this year on Timor, but seen well enough. One of the more attractive Honeyeaters, and a Timor endemic. Sumba Red-headed Honeyeater (S Myzomela) Myzomela dammermani: Probably our best year ever for this one, with four or five birds seen really well at or near flowering trees. Black-chested Honeyeater (B-c Myzomela, Red-rumped Honeyeater) Myzomela vulnerata: Only about eight of these Timor endemics this year, but seen well enough. NECTARINIIDAE Brown-throated Sunbird Nectarinia malacensis: Small numbers of this widespread sunbird were seen on Sumba (rubrigena), and Flores (convergens). Widespread in South-East Asia and the Greater Sundas Birdquest: The Lesser Sundas 2011

21 Olive-backed Sunbird Nectarinia jugularis: A few were seen on Bali and Flores (ornata). Another widespread species. Apricot-breasted Sunbird Nectarinia buettikoferi: This delightful Sumba endemic was commonly seen this year. Flame-breasted Sunbird Nectarinia solaris: Many splendid views of this blinding Lesser Sundan endemic on Timor, Flores and Komodo (nominate race). DICAEIDAE Golden-rumped Flowerpecker Dicaeum annae: Common in certain parts of Flores. The golden rumpplumes are rarely seen, and the common name is a stupid one. Endemic to Sumbawa and Flores. Thick-billed Flowerpecker Dicaeum agile: Four on Sumba (tinctum) and one on Timor (obsoletum). Black-fronted Flowerpecker Dicaeum igniferum: This Lesser Sundas endemic was regularly observed on Flores. Red-chested Flowerpecker Dicaeum maugei: Quite common in the Timor forests (nominate race). Endemic to the Lesser Sundas and a few islands south of Sulawesi. Blood-breasted Flowerpecker Dicaeum sanguinolentum: Common on Sumba (wilhelminae), with fledge young seen. Restricted to Java, Bali and the Lesser Sundas. Scarlet-headed Flowerpecker Dicaeum trochileum: One at Uluwatu, and two at Benoa on Bali. A very striking Indonesian endemic. ZOSTEROPIDAE Oriental White-eye Zosterops palpebrosus: Frequent on Flores, predominantly in the highlands. Yellow-bellied unicus; surely a potential split. Mountain White-eye Zosterops montanus: Very common in the Timor and Flores highland forests (nominate race). Yellow-spectacled White-eye (Orange-fronted W-e) Zosterops wallacei: Fairly common on Sumba and Flores. This distinctive orange-fronted dark-eye is endemic to the western Lesser Sundas. Lemon-bellied White-eye (Moluccan W-e) Zosterops chloris: A few near our hotel at Labuan Bajo, and one on Komodo. Ashy-bellied White-eye Zosterops citrinellus: Common on Sumba and Timor (nominate race). Yellow-browed Dark-eye (Eye-browed Ibon, White-browed White-eye) Lophozosterops superciliaris: This ibon was seen a few times in the highlands of Flores (nominate race), and is endemic to Sumbawa and Flores. Crested Dark-eye (Dark-crowned Ibon, Dark-crowned White-eye) Lophozosterops dohertyi: This handsome ibon was common again this year in submontane forests on Flores (subcristatus). Endemic to Sumbawa, Satonda and Flores. Much more attractive than shown in Coates & Bishop. Spot-breasted Dark-eye (Streak-breasted Ibon, Timor White-eye) Heleia muelleri: It was hard work as usual with this fast moving mid-storey ibon, but me managed to find at least two pairs at Camplong. Heleia is one of the few genera that is endemic to the Lesser Sundas, and the species is considered as Near-Threatened by BirdLife International. Thick-billed Dark-eye (Pale-fronted Ibon, Flores White-eye) Heleia crassirostris: This very differentlooking ibon was fairly common on Flores. Often betraying its presence by its very powerful song, it is endemic to Sumbawa and Flores. PASSERIDAE Tree Sparrow (Eurasian T S) Passer montanus: Fairly common throughout (malaccensis). ESTRILDIDAE Red Avadavat Amandava amandava: Over 80 on Sumba (flavidiventris). The Wallacean populations are probably derived from early introductions Birdquest: The Lesser Sundas 2011

22 Zebra Finch Taeniopygia guttata: Seen on all three major islands. A Lesser Sundan endemic, now that the Australian form castanotis has been split-off as Chestnut-eared Finch. Tricoloured Parrot-finch Erythrura tricolor: A cracking male showed well at dusk at Bariti on Timor, and most of us managed to get onto it. Endemic to the eastern Lesser Sundas. Javan Munia Lonchura leucogastroides: A couple in flight at Benoa, and another seen at our hotel by Roger Littlewood. A long overdue addition to the tour list. Black-faced Munia Lonchura molucca: This monotypic munia was occasional recorded from scattered locations, and is mostly restricted to Wallacea. Scaly-breasted Munia (Nutmeg Mannikin) Lonchura punctulata: This widespread and well-known species was commonly encountered throughout; nisoria on Bali, sumbae on Sumba, and blasii on Flores and Timor. Five-coloured Munia Lonchura quinticolor: Only relatively few again this year, with about six seen on Sumba, and just one on Timor. A Lesser Sundas endemic. White-headed Munia Lonchura maja: A handful in flight at Benoa, with some showing nicely. Pale-headed Munia Lonchura pallida: Roger Littlewood did well to find some in the ricefields at Lewa, and we counted at least 50 there. Another flock of ten were seen in flight at Pan Muti. Timor Sparrow Padda fuscata: Good views of about ten of this little-known Padda along the forest edge at Bipolo; mostly juveniles. Endemic to Timor, Roti and Semau and is considered as Vulnerable by BirdLife International. MAMMALS Plantain Squirrel Callosciurus notatus: A couple in Denpasar. Long-tailed Macaque (Crab-eating Macaque) Macaca fascicularis: Common and widespread on Sumba and Flores. Eurasian Wild Boar (Wild Boar, Indian W B) Sus scrofa: Four of these introduced pigs on Komodo. Indo-Pacific Bottle-nosed Dolphin Tursiops aduncus: At least six during the boat trip from Komodo to Labuan Bajo. Risso s Dolphin Grampus griseus: A logging pod of at least six during the Komodo boat trip. Whale sp.: Two or three distant rorqual whales seen from the clifftop at Uluwatu, were thought to be Bryde s Balaenoptera brydei. Timor Deer (Rusa Deer) Cervus timorensis: Common on Komodo; though thought to possibly be an ancient introduction. REPTILES Komodo Dragon Varanus komodoensis: At least five of these famous giant monitor lizards on Komodo, including a small juvenile of about three years age. Tockay Gecko Gekko gecko: Regularly heard throughout and seen at Kisol Seminary. Boschma s Gliding-lizard Draco boschmai: Several, with their yellow throat-fans, on Sumba and Flores. This is a recent split from Common Gliding-lizard D. volans, and is endemic to the western Lesser Sundas and parts of Sulawesi. Timor Gliding-lizard Draco timorensis: Yet another recent split from Common Gliding-lizard D. volans; and endemic to Timor, Alor, Wetar, and Roti. AMPHIBIANS Asian Common Toad Duttaphrynus melanostictus: Common on Sumba, where it is a non-native Birdquest: The Lesser Sundas 2011

23 BUTTERFLIES Haliphron Birdwing Troides haliphrone naias: Common on Sumba, and also seen on Flores. Endemic to the Lesser Sundas and Sulawesi. Lime Papilio demoleus: Attractive swallowtail-like butterfly on the beach at Komodo. Peranthus Peacock Papilio peranthus: Beautiful green peacock at the eagle viewpoint, Kisol. Bali to the Lesser Sundas only. Reinwardt s Orange Tip Ixias reinwardti: Flores & Komodo. Bali to the Lesser Sundas only. Great Orange Tip Hebomoia glaucippe flavomarginata: West Flores & Kisol. Wallace s Gull Cepora temena: Photographed by the Komodo Dragon waterhole on Komodo. Java to west Lesser Sundas only. Psyche Leptosia nina: Common at Kisol. Related to Wood White. Long-tailed Blue (Pea Blue) Lampides boeticus: Sumba & Flores. All the way to Europe. Clear Sailer Neptis nata: Black and white glider at Kisol. Chocolate Pansy Junonia iphita: Kisol. Grey Pansy Junonia atlites: Bipolo. Timor Admiral Vanessa dilecta: The Painted Lady-type butterfly on Gunung Mutis. It is endemic to West Timor! Striped Tiger Danaus genutia: Widespread. Plain Tiger Danaus chrysippus: Widespread. Yellow Costa Acraea issoria: The unusual rufous butterfly that I called Tawny Costa, on Sumba and Flores. Timor Lacewing Cethosia lamarcki: The beautiful vivid blue butterfly photographed in a small clearing at Oelnasi. Only known from Timor, Wetar, Kissar, Babar, Tajandu, and Kur. Great Eggfly Hypolimna bolina: In the seminary garden at Kisol. DRAGONFLIES Painted Grasshawk Neurothemis stigmatizans: Bintang Flores Hotel, Flores. Slender Skimmer Orthetrum sabina: Menggitimbe and elsewhere. Blue Percher Diplacodes trivialis: Widespread small blue dragonfly on trails etc Birdquest: The Lesser Sundas 2011

24 Sumba Green-pigeon showed well for us this year A vagrant Hardhead with Pacific Black Ducks at Menggitimbe, Sumba Another rarity was the Pied Heron that has been there for several years 2424 Birdquest: The Lesser Sundas 2011

25 Olive-shouldered Parrot was easily seen this year at our site on Timor Some nice tame Australian Pratincoles were in the fields at Bipolo Dazzling Flame-breasted Sunbirds occur on Timor and Flores 2525 Birdquest: The Lesser Sundas 2011

26 A handful of Barred-necked Cuckoo-doves were seen near Soe Timor Friarbird posed in a Eucalyptus-top on Gunung Mutis The spectacular Flores Hawk-eagle was seen at two new sites on Flores 2626 Birdquest: The Lesser Sundas 2011

27 Other Flores specialties included Little Minivet, the sombre Flores Jungle-flycatcher, Crested Dark-eye, 2727 Birdquest: The Lesser Sundas 2011

28 Scaly-crowned Honeyeater, Golden-rumped Flowerpecker, and Black-fronted Flowerpecker 2828 Birdquest: The Lesser Sundas 2011

29 Two male Komodo Dragons fighting Good birds on Komodo included this tame Great-billed Heron, many tame Green Junglefowl, 2929 Birdquest: The Lesser Sundas 2011

30 the endangered Yellow-crested Cockatoo, and this terrific roosting Moluccan Scops-owl 3030 Birdquest: The Lesser Sundas 2011