COLOMBIA 3 25 MARCH 2012 TOUR REPORT

Transcription

1 COLOMBIA 3 25 MARCH 2012 TOUR REPORT LEADER: EUSTACE BARNES Colombia consistently proves that it is amongst the best destinations to The Bird-Continent. Our 2012 tour to this staggeringly bird-rich country was ample demonstration of that, as another highly successful tour in an increasingly successful run of tours to this peaceable well run Andean country. We recorded nearly seven percent of the world s birds with a list of 674 species. This included no fewer than 43 of the widely accepted country endemics such as Cauca Guan, Colombian and Chestnut-winged Chachalacas, Bogotá Rail, Yellow-eared Parrot, Santa Marta Parakeet, Indigocapped Hummingbird, Blossomcrown, White-tailed Starfrontlet, Sapphire-bellied Hummingbird, White-mantled Barbet, Greyish Piculet, Silvery-throated and Rusty-headed Spinetails, Santa Marta Foliage-gleaner, Parker s Antbird, Santa Marta and Brown-banded Antpittas, Stile s and Mattoral Tapaculos, Santa Marta Bush-Tyrant, Apical Flycatcher, Chestnut-capped Piha, Apolinar s Marsh Wren, Munchique Wood Wren, Black-and-gold and Gold-ringed Tanagers, Santa Marta Mountain Tanager, Multicoloured Tanager, Turquoise Dacnis, Sierra Nevada Brush-Finch, Santa Marta Brush- Finch, Sooty and Crested Ant-Tanagers, Yellow-crowned Whitestart, White-lored and Santa Marta Warblers and Red-bellied Grackle. The Streak-capped Spinetail of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta is probably best considered another endemic as there is only an odd record from the Sierra de Perijá. In addition to those species considered endemics we also recorded 44 near-endemics and several more that might be considered so. In addition we saw several species very rarely recorded throughout their ranges. Of these we had extended views of Maroon-chested Ground Dove, great scope views of the stunning Saffron-headed Parrot, repeated views of the rarely seen Tooth-billed hummingbird, simply unbeatable views of Yellow-headed Manakin and walk away views of Masked Saltator and so the list goes on. Several of the species we saw are critically endangered or endangered birds: the Munchique Wood Wren and the Sapphire-bellied Hummingbird being critical and Cauca Guan, Bogotá Rail, Yellow-eared Parrot, Santa Marta Parakeet, White-mantled Barbet, Brown-banded Antpitta, Santa Marta Bush-Tyrant, Chestnut-capped Piha, Choco Vireo, Apolinar s Marsh Wren, Gold-ringed Tanager and Red-bellied Grackles being endangered. Although we were generally lucky with the weather we did lose two days to rain or fog and much of the rest of the time it was very dry, as elsewhere in northern South America at this time. This period of dryness, attributed to La Nina, a condition persisting after the torrential rains of El Nino in 2011, did reduce vocal activity in many of the cloud forest sites. This was very noticeable in the Santa Marta 1 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

2 Mountains. The floods and landslides of the year before meant we had to alter our itinerary and visit the Las Tangaras reserve rather than the Alto Galapagos road in the Choco. Apart from the weather we all enjoyed a trouble free tour in a pleasantly open and easy country, contrasting sharply with common perceptions of Colombia. I am sure the group all enjoyed a memorable tour that will stay with them for a long time and maybe encourage them to return. Our first day started at Montana del Oso north of Bogota with a pair of Rufous-browed Conebills and several Scarlet-bellied Mountain-Tanagers. We heard numerous Silvery-throated Spinetails and managed to track down a number of this rather awkward Synallaxis species. We also heard innumerable Mattoral Tapaculos, several Rufous Antpittas and an Undulated Antpitta. Working our way around the reserve we saw White-throated and Black-capped Tyrannulets, Slaty and Pale-naped Brush-Finches, a family group of the very pretty Plushcap, a small group of Rufous Wrens, a number of Black-crested Warblers, Masked and Black Flowerpiercers. A tall grove of moss-clad trees produced the near endemic Blue-throated Starfrontlet, Tyrian Metaltail and a couple of Glowing Pufflegs. It was time to move on and we headed to the Sieche wetlands. On arrival we were greeted by a number of endemic Bogota Rails, including several juveniles. There were also a dozen or so Spot-flanked Gallinules, a good number of Merida Teal (sometimes split from Speckled Teal) and a single Noble Snipe. After a pleasant break at a nearby restaurant we set off for Fuquene; a large wetland with extensive reed marshes. In no time we located a pair of energetic Apolinar s Marsh- Wrens, a species that is both endemic and considered threatened. Apart from a few Yellow-hooded Blackbirds and a couple of White-tailed Kites we saw little else and returned to our hotel for a good nights sleep. Our next site took us west of Bogotá to Laguna Pedro Palo, a picturesque lake set amidst wooded hills and pastures. After a pleasant field breakfast bird activity started to pick up and we found our first Ash-browed Spinetails, Golden-faced Tyrannulets, Brown-capped Vireos Black and white, Canada and Blackburnian Warblers without having to move. When subsequently walking the entrance track we found Lineated and Montane Foliage-gleaners, Slaty Spinetail, Streaked Xenops, Violet-capped Woodnymph and Indigo-capped Hummingbird. We then hit a mixed flock and found our principal target the endemic Turquoise Dacnis. Also in the flock was an Andean Toucanet, Cerulean Warbler, Tropical Parulas, and numerous stunning Blue-necked Tanagers, a family party of Flame-faced Tanagers as well as Golden, Bay-headed, Scrub Tanagers and Black-capped Tanagers. A little lower we found an Acorn Woodpecker, several Red-crowned Woodpeckers, Sooty-headed Tyrannulet, Common Tody Flycatcher, Yellow-faced Grassquit and several Moustached Brush-Finches. We then headed to the highway and lunch whilst running through the mornings highlights. In the afternoon we headed to a derelict bamboo plantation and some overgrown cacao plantations next to a huge chicken farm for, what turned out to be, a very birdy afternoon. We saw a pair of the near-endemic Bar-crested Antshrikes and several Colombian Wrens along with Pale-breasted Spinetail, a pair of the lovely Rufous-capped Warblers and a Rufous-naped Greenlet. We also found a single White-vented Plumeleteer, a Red-rumped Woodpecker, numerous Pale-breasted and Black-billed Thrushes and a good number of boreal migrants including Swainson s Thrush, Summer Tanager and a Mourning Warbler but somewhat unexpectedly we picked up on the very rare or perhaps overlooked Whitefronted Tyrannulet.(split from Rough-legged Tyrannulet). As we had a busy day to plan for we then headed back to Bogota. Somewhat early the following morning we climbed up to Cerro la Guadalupe above Bogota for a couple of hours of birding before our flight to Cali. We devoted our efforts to the lower sections of the road in search of Mattoral Tapaculo. After some tense and indeed silent moments we did all manage to see one individual. That is, in spite of the fact that all the birds that were calling were totally unresponsive to our invitations. We also found a mixed flock that held Pearled Treerunner, Tawnyrumped Tyrannulet, a pair of agitated Agile Tit-Tyrants, several Black-headed Hemispinguses and a stunning pair of Golden-fronted Whitestarts along with several species we had already seen such as 2 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

3 Superciliaried Hemispingus, Pale-naped Brush-finch and Masked Flowerpiercer. As the sun began to warm us the hummingbirds became rather more active and we saw a total of six Coppery-bellied Pufflegs, a single Glowing Puffleg and several Tyrian Metaltails. It was time to go and we headed off to the airport. After a short flight to Cali we started birding the western cordilleras. The complex geography of the Colombian Andes provides ample reason to suspect that there might be a rich avifauna and indeed the three cordilleras provide for the most diverse and complex avifaunas in South America. Separated by the Cauca and the vast Magdalena valleys, each of the cordilleras differ in birdlife from east to west slopes and from north to south. It is still a biogeographic puzzle, the complexity of which is not fully understood with new taxa being discovered at a fairly consistent rate. Notwithstanding ongoing academic complications we headed off to explore the east flank of the western cordillera on arrival in Cali, enjoying a splendid picnic lunch en route to the now famous Robert Oelman Hummingbird feeders beyond El 18. This spectacular set of feeders provided us with a fabulous procession of hummers starting with White-necked Jacobin, numerous Steely-vented and Rufous-tailed Hummingbirds and continuing with Andean Emeralds, a Speckled Hummingbird, Long-tailed Sylph, Green-crowned and Fawn-breasted Brilliants, Green-crowned Woodnymphs, a few Black-throated Mangos and a couple of Purple-throated Woodstars plus the rather localised Blue-headed Sapphire. While we were at the feeders a Merlin flashed through dispersing all the hummers for a few minutes. Our next site which we explored in the late afternoon and following morning was the El 18 track, which passes through an excellent patch of cloud forest. We had some great birding in the time available to us during which we saw Yellow-vented, Golden-olive and Lineated Woodpeckers, several Green and Black Fruiteaters, Andean Toucanet, about six Colombian Chachalacas and three Sickle-winged Guans. The latter were displaying with their loud wing rattle being very noticeable early on. A nice flock gave us Variegated Bristle-tyrant, Black-billed Pepper-Shrike, Blue-naped Chlorophonias, Metallic-green, Beryl-spangled, Saffron-crowned, Golden-naped and a stunning Purplish-mantled Tanager, along with a number of Flame-rumped Tanagers. We taped in a nice pair of Chestnut-breasted Wrens, a single Streak-capped Treehunter, a Red-faced Spinetail, a female Uniform Antshrike, Three-striped and Russet-crowned Warblers and a pair of Montane Woodcreepers. Along the road we saw a pair of Andean Motmots and an Aplomado Falcon while Hummingbirds were very visible with several Brown Violetears and Bronzy Incas along with a couple of Greenish Pufflegs. We also heard quite a number of White-throated Quail Doves and a couple of Chestnut Wood Quail. However it was time to move on and we then drove north along the fertile Cauca valley to the Laguna de Sonso. The extensive and for the most part seasonally flooded marshes adjacent to the Cauca River remind one of such habitats in Eastern Europe. The area held our first Black-crowned Night Herons, Striated and Cocoi Herons, Limpkin, Purple Gallinule, Greater and Lesser Yellowlegs and large numbers of Snail Kites. Around the visitor centre we found large numbers of Spectacled Parrotlets and both Yellow and Orchard Orioles, while the flowering Erythrina trees nearby were attracting several Ruby-Topaz Hummingbirds and large numbers of Black-throated Mangos. We also found a single roosting Common Nighthawk, a pair of Crimson-crested and a couple of Spot-breasted Woodpeckers, a pair of Jet Antbirds, several Bar-crested Antshrikes and a pair of Cinereous Becards. We also saw a number of Yellow Warblers and our first Northern Waterthrush of the tour. We then drove on Otun Quimbaya National Park for the night. The following morning we walked into the Otun-Quinbaya National Park seeing good numbers of the endemic Cauca Guans and eighteen Red-ruffed Fruitcrows; not that we were counting. In any event it was extremely common in the area and this must be the best site for this species. Quite why they are so numerous here I don t know but it may have something to so with the exotic trees planted along the track. We also saw a family group of Inca Jays and a couple of male Golden-headed Quetzals together with several Collared Trogons. The birding began to pick up as the flocks gathered for their daily perambulations. A noisy flock of White-capped Tanagers were distracted from their wanderings 3 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

4 and came to investigate the distracting wanderings of a group of Birdquesters, as a splendid display ensued. Subsequently a Greyish Piculet took some work but eventually it came down to eye level and we all obtained stunning views of this localised endemic. We also saw an impressive Strong-billed Woodcreeper picking around in an epiphyte along with a somewhat more evasive female Powerful Woodpecker. Nevertheless she did eventually reveal herself to us. Walking the track we then came across a sizeable mixed flock with which we enjoyed an object lesion in tyrannid ID. We kicked off with Marble-faced Bristle-Tyrant and Slaty-capped Flycatcher occurring together here with the rather more distinctive Rufous-breasted Flycatcher. Then we got down to business with Plumbeous-crowned and Ashy-headed Tyrannulets and a Variegated Bristle-Tyrant all in the same flock; just how birding should be. The whole experience was topped off with a beautiful Multicoloured Tanager, more Metallic-green Tanagers, Black-browed Peppershrikes, a pair of Spotted Barbtails and a Streak-necked Flycatcher. We then began to wander back to the lodge discussing the highlights of the previous few hours and commenting on just what a miserable existence it must be for the invertebrates of the area. After a suitably simple lunch we headed off to Manizales stopping only to watch a pair of Torrent Ducks searching for what must also have been a simple lunch before reaching our base for the next three nights huddled beneath the smouldering Nevada del Ruiz. Early the following morning we heard a pair White-throated Screech-Owls but ran out of time to find them before daylight cut throughout the canopy. It was then up into the reserve to start birding with spectacular views of the somewhat rare and clearly enigmatic although not ubiquitous Masked Saltator. What a bird and one not seen by many aficionados of the Bird Continent. We continued with several pairs of Capped Conebills of the distinctive white-capped variety, yet more delightful Golden-fronted Whitestarts and any number of white-tailed Tyrannulets. After a splendid breakfast at the headquarters we headed up to see the antpittas. It does make our lives much easier now that some of the rarest and most elusive species can be seen with ease although it does take some getting used to. The morning was quite simply outstanding and indeed better than the Angel Paz bird show. We kicked off with an aggressive pair of Chestnut-crowned Antpittas; one of the smartest Antpittas and within its range certainly ubiquitous if devilishly tricky to see as Robert Ridgley might say. However, here they were demanding breakfast shortly to be joined by a pair of the endemic Brownbanded Antpitta and a Chestnut-naped Antpitta! Absolutely outstanding, but not the end of it as along came a Blackish Tapaculo, a pair of Grey-browed Brush-finches and a Nightingale Thrush; this being an undescribed form of Slaty-backed Nightingale Thrush. However, it does not resemble that species as it has dark irides, an orange mandible and black culmen plus it is olive brown with a creamy-buff coloured belly. Given the current predisposition of taxonomists to atomise species into their constituent taxa it seems likely this will be considered a species in its own right. Thank goodness it comes to the feeders. We then headed off to another trail into the gloomy interior to see another Brown-banded Antpitta and a Green and black Fruiteater eating the worms put out for the cheeky little Slate-crowned Antpitta. It came in eventually and we all had great looks at this pretty little species. Finally we dragged ourselves away and wandered along to the final feeding point for the smart Bicoloured Antpitta. It came in and we had unbeatable views of this skulking horror of cloud forest thickets. We were finished with Antpittas and off in search of other denizens of this endlessly fascinating habitat. We saw a pair of Black-billed Mountain-Toucans, Crimson-mantled Woodpeckers, Black-collared Jays, a pair of Rufous-crowned Tody-Tyrants and a family group of Redhooded Tanagers. As ever, flycatchers featured and we teased a pair of Flavescent Flycatchers out of the leafy sub-canopy. Ash-coloured, Blackish, Spillmann s and Ocellated Tapaculos were all singing away and we did manage views of Ash-coloured but not the others in spite of trying. Back at the ranch we enjoyed lunch and several Collared Incas, Buff-tailed Coronet, Long-tailed Sylph, Whitebellied Woodstar, Speckled Hummingbird and the rather regal Tourmaline Sunangel. As usual it was time to head back our hotel well before we wanted to. 4 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

5 The very next morning we discovered we were high on the paramos below Nevado del Ruiz looking out over a thick blanket of cloud at 4000m. The peak itself also remained out of sight all day, during the course of which we became increasingly wet and cold as the cloud below us rose and heavy precipitation ensued. We did start high on the paramos seeing Andean Tit-Spinetail, Stout-billed Cinclodes, several pairs of Brown-backed Chat-Tyrants and Plain-coloured Seedeaters. We then drove up to the park gate where there were three Viridian Metaltails, White-chinned Thistletails, Grass Wrens and Plumbeous Sierra-Finches and the undoubted highlight of the day; a male and two female Bearded Helmetcrests. They showed spectacularly well as they fed on flowering bushes around us. The gorgeous male of this blue-bearded stuebelii race was definitely a tour favourite. As the fog closed in we drove to a small lake that held three Andean Ducks while in the dense bunch grass a pair of energetic Many-striped Canasteros entertained us. Descending through the paramo ecotone to the temperate forests below we found Buff-winged Starfrontlet and Golden-breasted Puffleg along with a Rufous Antpitta, Rufous-headed Pygmy-Tyrant and a number of Crowned Chat- Tyrants that obliged with great views. In the late afternoon we began to retrace our steps stopping at our site for Rufous-fronted Parakeet hampered by thick fog. Not deterred we did manage to find a pair of sombre Red-crested Cotingas, a Lacrimose Mountain Tanager and Pale-naped Brush-Finches. On departure for the Choco we did some birding in the forest fragments behind the hotel where we saw our first Yellow-throated Brush-Finches along with Andean Toucanet, Andean Motmot, a spectacular selection of hummingbirds on the feeders including Bronzy Inca, Fawn-breasted Brilliant, White-bellied Woodstar, Sparkling and Green Violetears and a nice pair of Whiskered Wrens. We then made our way across the Cauca valley towards Las Tanagaras for the next three nights which turned out to be a very well situated lodge to access some excellent Choco forests. At dawn the next morning we were on site just as flock activity and dawn song was picking up. Our first bird was Indigo Flowerpiercer; a rare bird in Ecuador. This was then followed by several Black-chinned Mountain Tanagers, Glistening-green and Purplish-mantled Tanagers, the rather more localised endemic Black and gold Tanager and the lovely Chestnut-breasted Chlorophonia. It has to be said that it was hard to know which way to look as Toucan Barbets, a Crimson-rumped Toucanet, a pair of Pacific Tuftedcheeks and both Rufous-throated and Metallic-green Tanagers were all around us along with the aforementioned species. These species and many of those we were to see over the following couple of days are increasingly rare and hard to find in Ecuador as deforestation continues apace and the humid west flanks dries out. Hummingbirds were much in evidence with several less than ubiquitous species seen including Velvet-purple Coronets, the spectacular Empress Brilliant, Fawnbreasted Brilliant, Greenish Puffleg and Purple-bibbed Whitetip, All of these species were later watched at length on some excellent feeders placed in the reserve by ProAves. As the day brightened we entered the forest and walked a well cut trail. Although initially quiet the forest soon filled with life and a huge mixed flock swirled around us. We first picked up on Red-faced Spinetail and then a family group of Fulvous-dotted Treerunners, for which superlatives fail entirely. We were to see more of this species throughout the day at eye level and spend a good deal of time entertained by their antics. Also, in the flock we found Rufous-rumped Antwren, the rare Choco Vireo, a good number of Handsome Flycatchers and an Olivaceous Piha that was unfortunately only seen by the leader. A Barred Hawk soared overhead, the Toucan Barbets continued their primordial duetting, several Redheaded Barbets and a Golden-headed Quetzal fed in a fruiting tree while a pair of Yellow-vented Woodpeckers came to see what the commotion was. Such a day would only be the stuff of fantasy in Ecuador but we were not finished. We climbed up to a saddle along the ridge where we found three Gold-ringed Tanagers and a flock of six Yellow-Faced Parrots both of which are considered endangered, the later critically so. Descending to the road we visited the feeders for a rest and a very enjoyable session ensued watching a good proportion of the Chocoan hummingbirds. Also available to us at Las Tangaras is a small area of foothill forest and one morning we paid the area a visit to find the immaculate Emerald Tanager, Ochre-breasted and Dusky-faced Tanagers and the rarely seen Tooth-billed Hummingbird. Indeed Carl commented that he had only rarely seen the latter which, as we all know, is birder code for that s new for me. We then returned to the lodge for an early lunch 5 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

6 during which time we saw a small group of Red-bellied Grackles; a fine looking endemic and one we were to see on many subsequent occasions. As we had seen much of what we had expected to see and more we headed up to 2700m along the road to Urrao taking a rather treacherous track arriving in good time for some great birding which produced spectacular views of the rare and localised Munchique Wood Wren. How better to end the day and so we returned to the lodge to meet up with an old friend of mine; Richard Schofield who was on a private trip led by Trevor of ProAves. The following morning at dawn we waited above the lodge and a pair of Crested Ant-Tanagers put in an appearance and gave a sterling performance for what is usually a shy and difficult species to see well. A walk along the ridge above the lodge produced, along many of the species of the day before a single Black Solitaire and the exquisite Yellow-collared Chlorophonia. After lunch we packed and headed off to Jardin. On arrival at this lovely colonial town we headed to an Andean Cock-of-therock Lek near town where in addition to enjoying spectacular views of this exotic species displaying we also saw our first Black-chested Jays and Chestnut-capped Brush-Finches. A memorable day indeed in a series of equally bird packed days. High above Jardin the following morning we were treated to a bright and sunny dawn. Although the views were impressive we were dismayed by absolute silence and little or no flock activity. A few Slate-crowned Antpittas called before a few pairs of Yellow-eared Parrots flew over us. A little later on we managed some reasonable scope views of this stunning critically endangered species. We had great views of Band-tailed Pigeon, Speckle-faced Parrots, up to four Black-billed Mountain Toucans, Grass-green Tanagers and Lacrimose Mountain-Tanagers. We searched for and found both Rufousbreasted and Chestnut-bellied Chat Tyrants for the list and found several pairs of Streak-throated Bush Tyrants. Leaving Jardin we stopped in the dry deciduous woodlands below town where we saw more Spectacled Parrotlets and eventually found a couple of Apical Flycatchers and a Greenish Elaenia while another stop produced more Apical Flycatchers, a pair of Black-bellied Wrens and a nest building Slaty Spinetail. We then headed off eventually reaching Anori in time to watch the hummingbird feeders in the garden. Anori, a reserve set up to protect forests where the recently described Chestnut-capped Piha is found provided an excellent day of birding for us. On top of the ridge above our lodge at dawn we were again dismayed by the absence of any dawn chorus. In compensation there were a good number of large mixed flocks. In these we found Red-faced Spinetail, Western Woodhaunter, Buff-fronted Foliage-Gleaner, Uniform Antshrike, Rufous-rumped Antwren, Golden-winged Manakin, Wingbarred Piprites, Rufous-breasted Flycatcher, White-winged Becard, the superb Multicoloured Tanager and many others. A little further along the ridge we heard the explosive whistles of a Chestnut-capped Piha and very soon we were looking at an adult bird calling in front of us. Interesting to note that in spite of our proximity to the bird we were unable to detect a Chestnut cap or even the trace of a brown wash although the yellow eye ring was clearly visible. As we worked our way down to the lodge we found a superb Ochre-breasted Antpitta which performed feet in front of us followed by a pair of Moustached Puffbirds. It was time for lunch and a short break watching the hummingbird feeders. The afternoon produced a different set of birds along the road above the lodge starting with the rarely recorded Red-tailed Hawk. We picked up the range restricted Sooty-headed Wren, a small group of Red-bellied Grackles and after some persistence a pair of the recently described Parker s Antbird followed by the diminutive Stile s Tapaculo; the latter almost walking over our feet as it scuttled through the leaf litter in front of us. Full house and time to move on. Departing from Anori we headed for Ro Claro via the Magdalena valley where we stopped along the Magdalena Freeway at a wetland sometimes referred to as the Screamer marsh. In addition to a about a dozen Screamers lounging about in the marshes we also found Blue and yellow and Chestnut-fronted Macaws, Yellow-crowned Amazons and Brown-throated Parakeets along with a surprising number of Large-billed and Yellow-billed Terns, the black form of Wattled Jacana, several Anhingas and large numbers of Herons and Egrets. However it was raptors that made our visit so 6 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

7 productive starting with an Osprey and a Snail Kite followed by a superb Long-winged Harrier quartering over the marsh. This was followed by a pair of Aplomado Falcons, a single Great Black Hawk and a Black-collared Hawk. Hiding in the tall vegetation were numerous somewhat nervous Black-bellied and White-faced Whistling Ducks amongst a good many Blue-winged Teal. Once we had scoped up a Striped Cuckoo it was clear that the evening was fast approaching and it was time to get a move on and get ourselves to the Rio Claro. The Rio Claro area is located in the Nechi Lowlands endemic bird area and is characterised by lowland hill forest with central American and Chocoan affinities but with some interesting endemics. Our birding here took us to the Rio Claro reserve, the Gruta del Condor and rainforests protected by a mine. However, we were stopped in our tracks by heavy persistent rain on our first morning which was also a national holiday. Once the rain desisted we headed off to the Rio Claro reserve where several hundred rather damp campers were emerging from their tents. In spite of the number of Colombians enjoying the vagaries Andean weather patterns we did see a number of great birds. We started off with Barred Puffbird, Western White-tailed Trogon, Orange-crowned Oriole and a superb flock of Saffron-headed Parrots: a rare and infrequently species throughout its range and a real pleasure to see so well. A little later on we were treated to spectacular views of five or six Bicoloured Antbirds but as the weight of visitors grew around lunch time we made a strategic retreat to our hotel for our rather late lunch. We then headed off to the Gruta del Condor to see the Oilbirds; one of South Americas emblematic species along with Torrent Duck and Andean Cock-of-the-Rock which we had already seen on the tour. The forests at the caves also produced Broad-billed and Rufous Motmots, the uncommon Black-throated Trogon and both Moustached and Pacific Streaked Antwrens along with the superb Sooty Ant-Tanager but no White-mantled Barbet. The following morning we decided to visit an area of forest behind our hotel and in the protection of a mining company. At the start the forests rang with the calls of Chestnut-backed Antbirds which after some work showed to all of us. It was however Manakins that made the morning with great views of Western Striped Manakin, White-bearded, Golden-headed and Blue-crowned Manakins. Quite extraordinary and a tremendous highlight on the tour to watch these magical denizens of Neotropical rainforests do their stuff. There were also some very confiding Southern Bentbills that perched right in front of us for all to see but still no Barbet! So back for lunch and planning one last attempt to find the bird at Rio Claro. On arrival the contrast with our first visit could not have been greater as not only was it not raining but there were also no people at the reserve. Also, our target was called in above our heads just inside the reserve entrance much to everyone s delight. Great scope views of a stunning male Whitemantled Barbet calling above us made our subsequent journey to Medellin a bearable non-birding break. The following morning, in the brief time we had before our flight to Santa Marta, we headed up to Romera above Medellin, a small reserve protecting some remnant watershed forest. It was here that the nest of the rarely recorded Yellow-headed Manakin was found and the site has become one of the only sites where the species may be seen. Walking along the gulley edge we were soon treated to point blank views of a stunning male Yellow-headed Manakin which was to be the bird of the trip. No surprise there. The site also produced great views of Colombian Chachalaca, Spotted Barbtail and Red-bellied Grackle. Again, it was time to move on and we headed up to the airport high on the plateau above the city. After a short flight to Santa Marta we met up with our new vehicles and drivers and headed forthwith to the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Our first stop was at Minca where we enjoyed the spectacle of some busy hummingbird feeders while eating an excellent lunch. In the afternoon we headed up to El Dorado stopping at the Cafe del Bruja that seemed to be broadcasting a local radio station to the village. In spite of the noise the hummingbirds were quite oblivious and a male Blossomcrown duly turned up. During his visit and a subsequent visit we saw a pair of nesting Yellow-billed Toucanets, a Keel-billed Toucan and both a male and female Santa Marta Woodstar. As we continued upwards 7 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

8 along the rough track, which could have been mistaken for a stream bed we passed through some excellent stands of montane forest before we finally pulled onto the lodge forecourt. We then spent the remainder of the day birding the lodge garden. On the hummingbird feeders we saw a couple of stunning White-tailed Starfrontlets and numerous Violet-capped Woodnymphs. On the feeders there were also a few Bay-headed Tanagers, Blue-naped Chlorophonias and several Santa Marta Brush- Finches. We also saw a pair of Black-fronted Wood-Quails with chicks on the compost heap along with several parties of Sierra Nevada Brush-Finches. The forests along the road in front of the lodge produced several pairs of White-lored Warblers, a pair of nest building Black-throated Tody-Tyrants and both Band-tailed and Sickle-winged Guans. In the fading light we saw a Santa Marta Antpitta at a feeding area near the lodge together with an adult Slay-backed Nightingale Thrush. A night birding session later on produced a least two pairs of the recently described Santa Marta Screech Owl but neither of them put in an appearance despite our best efforts; so ended a long and tiring day. Arriving high on the San Lorenzo ridge at dawn the following morning we were treated to one of the most spectacular sunrises imaginable. However, we soon forgot about that and began working our way through the mixed flocks that worked the bamboo choked slopes. Rusty-headed Spinetails began to call and a number of Yellow-crowned Whitestarts appeared above us together with Santa Marta Mountain Tanagers, several Santa Marta Brush Finches, a pair of Streak-capped Spinetails and great views of a small party of Santa Marta Warblers. This was followed by a superb female Maroonchested Ground Dove which we were able to watch at length and indeed video. Despite its wide range this is a very rarely seen species and certainly one of the highlights of the tour. As we worked our way down we ran into several small flocks of Santa Marta Parakeets and we all managed great scope views of this somewhat uncommon endemic. A little lower down we saw several Santa Marta Toucanets (potentially split from Emerald Toucanet) and working an area for the somewhat elusive Santa Marta Bush-Tyrant we eventually had spectacular views of this uncommon endemic: certainly an excellent start to a day during which we had repeated views of these endemics and many other upland species. As we continued our downhill walk we managed brief views of two White-tipped Quetzals, great views of the very distinctive race of Montane Woodcreeper, the highland form of Grey-breasted Wood-Wren and several pairs of the very bright form of Cinnamon Flycatcher. In the afternoon we found Sierra Nevada Brush-finches and up to seven Golden-breasted Fruiteaters but only heard, very distantly, more White-tipped Quetzals. Departing from El Dorado we worked our way down to Minca finding the skulking Santa Marta Foliage-gleaner, the perky little Rusty-breasted Antpitta, a male and a female Santa Marta Woodstar, a couple of Blossomcrowns and a pair of Yellow-billed Toucanets at a nest hole. In the coffee plantations we found good numbers of Blackhooded and Yellow-legged Thrushes as well as Black-headed and Swallow Tanagers. We had lunch at Minca and in the early afternoon explored the drier woodlands below the village. These woodlands produced a pair of Rufous-breasted Wrens and a pair Rufous-and-white Wrens. We also saw Barred and Black-backed Antshrikes, the pretty Golden-winged Sparrow and a Whooping Motmot along with Crimson-crested Woodpeckers. Lower still we located the rare and localised Sooty Grassquit with Long-billed Gnatwren and a pair of Rosy Thrush Tanagers before we had to head off to Santa Marta. The arid Guajira Peninsula jutting north into the Caribbean Sea shares an avifauna with the deserts of Falcon in adjacent areas of Venezuela. After driving to a tidal lagoon adjacent to an area of dense scrub we enjoyed a simple breakfast while watching Reddish Egrets fishing for theirs and Buffy Hummingbirds hawking for theirs. Great blue Herons, Yellow-crowned Night Herons, Bare-eyed Pigeons, Brown-throated Parakeets and Grey Kingbirds were subsequently seen before we began to work though the scrubby woodlands. A methodical search turned up Green-rumped Parrotlets, Rufous-tailed Jacamar, Russet-throated Puffbird, Maracaibo Antshrike (a likely split from Black-crested Antshrike), numerous Northern White-fringed Antwrens, Red-billed Emerald, Slender-billed Inezia, Northern Scrub-Flycatcher, Pale-eyed and Pearly-vented Tody-Tyrants, several White-whiskered Spinetails, Caribbean Hornero, Straight-billed woodcreeper. We also enjoyed great views of 8 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

9 Vermillion Cardinal and several pairs of the uncommon Chestnut Piculet which is hard to find in Venezuela. We then drove to Camarones (Prawns) for lunch and some wetland birding. A tern and gull roost held Caspian, Royal and Sandwich Terns, a Herring Gull (third record for Colombia), Willet, Hudsonian Whimbrel and a few peeps. During lunch (of prawns with prawn rice) we saw several Carib Grackles and a couple of Magnificent Frigatebirds. After a brief search of a couple of other dry woodlands we found more Yellow-breasted Flycatchers, several Pileated Finches and Paletipped Tyrannulet which was a new species for Carl. As time was pushing on we headed back to Santa Marta. The last day dawned and we were on site along the causeway at the Isla Salamanca National Park. Drifting along the highway we quickly found our target bird; the Chestnut-winged Chachalaca. Several groups of this rather localised species were perched up drying off in the morning sun on tall columnar cacti and after enjoying great views of this species we headed off in search of migrants. However, the area was very dry and many of the ponds and damp areas for ducks and waders were dried out. Nevertheless we did see an assortment of herons, egrets, terns and gulls and a few waders for the list. We then continued to the park headquarters, located in the mangroves, where walking along the boardwalk we found a Green Heron, Western Slaty-Antshrike, incredible numbers of Bicoloured Conebills, more Russet-throated Puffbirds, a pair of Chestnut Piculets, a male Prothonotary Warblers and a pair of Yellow-chinned Spinetails. While on the boardwalk we glimpsed a shadow hurtling through the trees which turned out to be a male Merlin which had caught a Prothonotary Warbler which it proceeded to pluck and eat. Returning to the park headquarters we staked out the flowering trees around the car park and duly saw a male Sapphire-bellied Hummingbird enjoying scope views of this lovely hummingbird. This species is considered critically endangered and is certainly very infrequently seen and poorly known. A superb end to the birding on this magnificent trip and we headed off to the airport and our homeward journeys. 9 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

10 SYSTEMATIC LIST Species heard but not seen are indicated by (H). Species not recorded by the leader indicated by (NL). Species only recorded by the leader indicated by (LO) TINAMIDAE Tawny-breasted Tinamou Nothocercus julius (H): We heard one at Cerro La Guadalupe and another at Jardin. Little Tinamou Crypturellus soui (H): We heard one near La Mesa, another at El18 and others in the Rio Claro area. A near impossible species to see. PODICIPEDIDAE Pied-billed Grebe Podilymbus podiceps: One seen near Laguna Sieche, several on Laguna Pedro Palo and one at Laguna de Sonso. PELECANIDAE Brown Pelican Pelecanus occidentalis: Up to 200 seen along the Caribbean coast. PHALACROCORACIDAE Olivaceous Cormorant (Neotropic C) Phalacrocorax brasilianus: First seen at EL18 we then found them at Lagunas de Sonso and they were common along the Caribbean Coast. ANHINGIDAE Anhinga (Darter) Anhinga anhinga: We saw several at the screamer marsh. FREGATIDAE Magnificent Frigatebird Fregata magnificens: We saw a few along the Caribbean coast. ARDEIDAE Great Blue Heron Ardea herodias: We found up to a dozen on La Guajira peninsula and a couple in the Isla Salamanca National Park. Cocoi Heron (White-necked H) Ardea cocoi: About 20 were seen at Laguna de Sonso and a few at the screamer marsh on our way to Rio Claro and a few at scattered sites throughout. Great Egret Casmerodius albus: We saw small numbers around Bogota and at several wetland sites, with an impressive gathering of several 100 birds at the screamer marsh. Snowy Egret Egretta thula: First seen at Laguna de Sonso and the screamer marsh followed by good numbers in the Isla Salamanca National Park. Thula is an Araucano (Chilean) Indian name for the Black-necked Swan, erroneously given to the Snowy Egret! Little Blue Heron Florida caerulea: Very few seen along the Caribbean coast. Reddish Egret Dichromanassa rufescens: Eleven of this attractive heron seen along the Caribbean Coast. Now classified as Near Threatened by BirdLife International, its population is estimated to be between 10,000 and 19,999 and declining. It has recently been up-listed to this category because, despite its large range, it occupies a restricted habitat and is patchily distributed. Tricoloured Heron Hydranassa tricolor: Very common at sites on La Guajira Peninsula followed by about good numbers in the Isla Salamanca National Park. Also formerly called the Louisiana Heron. Together with the previous two species placed in the genus Egretta. Green Heron Butorides virescens: One seen of this rather uncommon migrant in the mangroves of the Isla Salamanca National Park. 10 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

11 Striated Heron Butorides striatus: Small numbers were seen at several different wetland areas all along the tour. Western Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis: Common and widespread throughout Colombia. Capped Heron Pilherodius pileatus: One seen near the Screamer marsh and another on the Guaira Peninsula. Black-crowned Night-Heron Nycticorax nycticorax: Three seen at Laguna de Sonso. Yellow-crowned Night Heron Nyctanassa violacea: Several seen on the Guajira Peninsula. THRESKIORNITHIDAE Whispering Ibis (Bare-faced I) Phimosus infuscatus: Several near Cali airport and subsequently seen at many sites throughout. Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus: Several seen at Laguna de Sonso and a couple at the Isla de Salamanca National Park. White Ibis Eudocimus albus: We saw 35 bird together with Scarlet Ibises at Camarones with a significant number of intermediates. Scarlet Ibis Eudocimus ruber: Up to six seen at Camarones. There were also several intermediate pink birds with the mixed flock of White and Scarlet ibises. Roseate Spoonbill Ajaia ajaja: About ten were seen in lagoons on the La Guajira peninsula. ANHIMIDAE Northern Screamer Chauna chavaria: Great looks at up to 15 of this prehistoric looking creature along the Magdalena valley. Classified as Near Threatened by BirdLife International, the world population is estimated at fewer than 10,000 restricted to northern Colombia and the Maracaibo basin in North west Venezuela. ANATIDAE Fulvous Whistling-Duck Dendrocygna bicolor: One seen at Laguna de Sonso. Black-bellied Whistling-Duck Dendrocygna autumnalis: One seen at Laguna de Sonso and then larger numbers along the Magdalena valley. White-faced Whistling-Duck Dendrocygna viduata: A few seen along the Magdalena valley. Merida Teal (M Speckled T) Anas altipetens: Twelve seen at Laguna Sieche near Bogotá. Usually lumped in Speckled Teal but some authors split that species in northern and southern species while more recently Restall et al have further split A. altipetens as the Merida Teal. White-cheeked Pintail Anas bahamensis: About twenty were seen on our last day in the Isla Salamanca National Park. Blue-winged Teal Anas discors: Up to 50 in the wetlands around Bogotá and another 50 were seen in the Isla Salamanca National Park. Torrent Duck Merganetta armata: We had great views of a pair by the main road near Otun Quimbaya. The subspecies here, colombiana, is very pale. This variable species (they get darker from north to south) may end up being treated as more than one species. Andean Duck Oxyura ferruginea: Two males and a female on a fog shrouded pond along the Nevado del Ruiz road. CATHARTIDAE Turkey Vulture Cathartes aura: Widespread in small numbers although more common further north. The South American Checklist Committee (SACC) now places this family in a separate order, Cathartiformes, and recent genetic data strongly refute a cathartid-stork relationship. Note that the migratory north American form may prove to be distinct from the resident South American form. Lesser Yellow-headed Vulture Cathartes burrovianus: Seen in the Magdalena valley and on the Guajira peninsula. 11 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

12 Black Vulture Coragyps atratus: Very common throughout. King Vulture Sarcoramphus papa: A pair seen with migrant Buteos at Rio Claro. PANDIONIDAE Osprey Pandion haliaetus: Our first was noted at Laguna de Sonso and others along the Caribbean cost. ACCIPITRIDAE American Swallow-tailed Kite Elanoides forficatus: A few were seen soaring above Las Tangaras. Definitely the most elegant raptor of the Neotropics. White-tailed Kite Elanus leucurus: Up to six seen near Bogota. Snail Kite Rostrhamus sociabilis: About 35 were seen at Laguna de Sonso area and two in the Magdalena valley. Long-winged Harrier Circus buffoni: A single dark phase bird seen in the Magdalena valley. Plain-breasted Hawk Accipiter ventralis: One seen at Otun Quimbaya. Barred Hawk Leucopternis princeps: We saw one at Las Tangaras. Great Black Hawk Buteogallus urubitinga: One was seen at the screamer marsh on our way to Anori. Savanna Hawk Heterospizias meridionalis: We saw a few near Rio Claro. Black-collared Hawk Busarellus nigricollis: A single bird was seen on our roadside stop by the screamer marsh on our way to Anori. Roadside Hawk Buteo magnirostris: Very vocal at Laguna Pedro Palo. Numerous and widespread in small numbers throughout the tour. Broad-winged Hawk Buteo platypterus: Thousands seen soaring over Rio Claro possibly numbering over ten thousand. A good many other individuals seen elsewhere on the tour. Short-tailed Hawk Buteo brachyurus: A couple seen. Swainson s Hawk Buteo swainsonii: Again several thousand seen passing over Rio Claro. Red-tailed Hawk Buteo jamaicensis: A single bird seen at Anori. Black Hawk Eagle Spizaetus tyrannus: One seen at Laguna Pedro Palo calling and circling above us with the ubiquitous Black Vulture. Seen and heard at several other localities as well. FALCONIDAE Northern Caracara (Crested C) Caracara cheriway: Regular encounters throughout the tour but most numerous on the Guajira Peninsula. Yellow-headed Caracara Milvago chimachima: First seen at El18. A widespread open country falcon that was seen regularly in small numbers. Laughing Falcon Herpetotheres cachinnans: Several seen and heard at Anori. A widespread species, but always great to see! Barred Forest-Falcon Micrastur ruficollis (H): We heard a calling bird at Laguna Pedro Palo. American Kestrel Falco sparverius: Several sightings all along the tour of this widespread open country species. Merlin Falco columbarius: We saw one at Robert Oelman s feeders. Another was seen at the Isla Salamanca National Park where it was seen to catch a Prothonotary Warbler and subsequently pull it apart. Aplomado Falcon Falco femoralis: One seen at El18 and a pair at the Screamer marsh along the Magdalena valley. Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus: One adult see on the Isla de Salamanca. CRACIDAE Chestnut-winged Chachalaca Ortalis garrula: Our strategy of waiting for birds to perch up on columnar cacti to dry out in the Isla Salamanca National Park work again allowing great views for everybody. This is an Endemic bird to Colombia. 12 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

13 Rufous-vented Chachalaca Ortalis ruficauda: Dozens heard at our desert breakfast stop on the Guajira peninsula and one seen along the highway. Colombian Chachalaca Ortalis columbiana: We first saw this species along the El18 track where it seemed to be rather common. Subsequently seen elsewhere. The taxonomy of the Speckled Chachalaca complex, of which Colombian Chachalaca is part, is somewhat complex nevertheless it is officially split now and it is an Endemic bird to Colombia. Band-tailed Guan Penelope argyrotis: A couple seen feeding in trees by the lodge in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Andean Guan Penelope montagnii: Seen at several sites and heard at many others. Cauca Guan Penelope perspicax: Rediscovered in the Otun Quimbaya NP in We saw at least a dozen individuals, some of which adorned trees around the lodge giving us unbeatable views. This species is considered endangered by Birdlife International as it has a small range which is highly fragmented. Its population is therefore not only small but also divided into small populations. A Colombian endemic. Wattled Guan Aburria aburri (H): Heard at Otun Quimbaya and Anori. This species is classified as Near Threatened because it has a small population, which is suspected to be declining moderately rapidly owing to habitat loss and hunting. Sickle-winged Guan Chamaepetes goudotii: First seen at El 18 near Cali but many others were seen in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. PHASIANIDAE Crested Bobwhite Colinus cristata: several coveys seen on the Guajira peninsula. A common open country quail of the north-east. Black-fronted Wood-Quail Odontophorus atrifrons: Excellent views of a couple of pairs at El Dorado lodge in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. They came into feed on the compost heap and one pair were accompanied by three chicks. This species is classified as Vulnerable owing to its small range and population, both of which must be declining in response to habitat loss. The range is small and fragmented with recent records from only one area. Chestnut Wood-Quail Odontophorus hyperythrus (H): It was heard at El 18, at Las Tangaras and at Otun Quimbaya but we did not manage to see it. Classified as Near Threatened by BirdLife International, the world population is estimated at fewer than 10,000. ARAMIDAE Limpkin Aramus guarauna: Several seen at Laguna de Sonso. RALLIDAE White-throated Crake Laterallus albigularis (H): We heard some one at the screamer marsh. Bogotá Rail Rallus semiplumbeus: Spectacular views of up to eight birds at the Laguna Sieche. There were also a couple of pairs with juveniles. This species is listed as Endangered by Birdlife International because its range is very small and is contracting owing to widespread habitat loss and degradation. A Colombian endemic. Grey-necked Wood-Rail Aramides cajanea (H): Two birds heard at Laguna Pedro Palo and others heard elsewhere. Purple Gallinule (American P G) Porphyrio martinicus: One was seen at Laguna de Sonso and others at the screamer marsh. Spot-flanked Gallinule Gallinula melanops: The disjunct form bogotensis was very common at the Laguna Sieche north of Bogota. Common Gallinule (C Moorhen) Gallinula galeata: Fairly common around Bogota, Laguna de Sonso and in the Isla Salamanca National Park. This revision arises as a result of a recent proposal, accepted by the South American Checklist Committee (SACC), to split the New world forms from the old world forms. 13 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

14 American Coot Fulica americana: Several pairs seen at Laguna Sieche near Bogotá. The race in South America, largely restricted to Colombia, is columbiana which has a yellow base to the bill, giving them a quite unique appearance. JACANIDAE Wattled Jacana Jacana jacana: Two races were seen during the tour: the more typical melanopygia in the Cauca Valley (Laguna de Sonso) and the largely blackish hypomelaena at the screamer marsh. We saw about 40 birds at the latter site. The two forms occur sympatrically in some areas. RECURVIROSTRIDAE Black-necked Stilt Himantopus mexicanus: About 40 seen at Laguna de Sonso and many more in the Isla Salamanca National Park on our last day of the tour. CHARADRIIDAE Southern Lapwing Vanellus chilensis: Widespread and common throughout the tour. Good numbers seen in the Central valley at 2600m. Black-bellied Plover (Grey P) Pluvialis squatarola: Up to ten birds were seen along the Caribbean coast towards the end of the tour. Semipalmated Plover Charadrius semipalmatus: A total of 15 were seen at Camarones on La Guajira Peninsula. SCOLOPACIDAE Solitary Sandpiper Tringa solitaria: One seen at Laguna Sieche, several at Laguna de Sonso and a few more at the Guajira Peninsula. Lesser Yellowlegs Tringa flavipes: It was common at Laguna de Sonso and the Isla Salamanca National Park at the end of the tour. Greater Yellowlegs Tringa melanoleuca: About 10 were seen at Laguna de Sonso and more on the Guajira Peninsula and in the Isla Salamanca National Park. Spotted Sandpiper Actitis macularia: Several seen at Laguna de Sonso and more elsewhere Willet Tringa semipalmata: About 100 were noted at on the Guajira Peninsula and 10 more were seen in the Isla Salamanca National Park on our last morning. These birds appeared to be the western inornata subspecies. Most of the birds were the nominate semipalmata race. The two forms may well be a separate species. The two forms differ not only in size, plumage, and voice, but also in their timing and route of migration and timing of moult. The two forms also differ in their North American breeding grounds with western birds nesting on the interior western prairie grasslands and eastern birds only in Atlantic coastal salt marshes. Sanderling Calidris alba: We saw 6 birds on the beach at Camarones. Least Sandpiper Calidris minutilla: Several seen at Laguna de Sonso and large flocks of these tiny peeps at the mudflats of La Guajira. Semipalmated Sandpiper Calidris pusilla: It was also common though less numerous then the previous species at La Guajira with up to 100 birds seen. Western Sandpiper Calidris mauri: The most common shorebird during our visit to La Guajira with up to 150 birds seen foraging on the tidal mudflat. Hudsonian Whimbrel Numenius hudsonicus: A few were counted at La Guajira on the mud flats. Short-billed Dowitcher (Common D) Limnodromus griseus: Up to 20 birds were seen foraging on the tidal mudflats in the Isla Salamanca National Park. Noble Snipe Gallinago nobilis: We saw one at the Sieche wetlands and another high on the Paramos at Nevado Ruiz. 14 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

15 LARIDAE American Herring Gull Larus smithsonianus: We had good views of an immature bird at the gull and tern roost at Camarones. Laughing Gull Larus atricilla: About 80 birds were counted at La Guajira in a gull and tern flock. Large-billed Tern Sterna simplex: Numerous at the screamer marsh on our way to Rio Claro. Gull-billed Tern Sterna nilocta: Up to 20 seen at Camarones in a gull and tern roost. Caspian Tern Sterna caspia: About 15 birds were counted at La Guajira. Royal Tern Sterna maxima: seen along the Caribbean coast in the gull and tern roost at La Guajira, and more at Isla Salamanca. Sandwich Tern Sterna sandvicensis: 30 birds were counted at La Guajira in a roosting gull and tern flock. Recent genetic research suggests that North American and European Sandwich Terns are not the same species. Yellow-billed Tern Sternula superciliaris: A total of 15 birds were seen in the Magdalena valley. The biggest concentration was at the screamer marsh. COLUMBIDAE Rock Dove (feral) Columba livia: An abundant synanthropic that is often also a domesticated species, especially in rural areas. Band-tailed Pigeon Patagioenas fasciata: We saw up to 25 at Laguna Pedro Palo and thereafter in many cloud forest locations. One of the most widespread New World birds, ranging from Alaska to Argentina. Here the Neotropical form albilinea, which has been regarded by some authors as a full species. Bare-eyed Pigeon Patagioenas corensis: Somewhat numerous in the dry scrub on La Guajira and Isla Salamanca, and we saw about 30 in total. The species is named after the Venezuelan town of Coro. Pale-vented Pigeon Patagioenas cayennensis: A few seen at Laguna de Sonso and later small numbers were seen at various other sites. The scientific name refers to Cayenne or French Guyana, an epithet that in early ornithology usually indicated a species of otherwise unknown provenance. Ruddy Pigeon Patagioenas subvinacea: A couple seen at Laguna Pedro Palo and a few heard at Anori. Plumbeous Pigeon Patagioenas plumbea: Seen at Las Tangaras. Eared Dove Zenaida auriculata: Very common. Two rather different-looking forms of this one were encountered, pentheria in the Eastern Andes (the ones we saw in the Bogotá area with underparts shaded cinnamon and outer tail feathers tipped rusty), and the white-tipped caucae in the Cauca valley. Common Ground-Dove (Scaly G-D) Columbina passerina: About 25 were seen along the Caribbean coast. Ruddy Ground-Dove Columbina talpacoti: Common at La Mesa. Small numbers of this widespread species were seen in open country all along the tour. Blue Ground-Dove Claravis pretiosa: One male seen below Minca. Maroon-chested Ground-Dove Claravis mondetoura: One female watched at length along the San Lorenzo ridge. Scaled Dove Scardafella squammata: The first ones were seen on the lower slopes of the Santa Marta Mountains and then up to 15 birds were noted at La Guajira. White-tipped Dove Leptotila verreauxi: This common dove was seen and heard regularly throughout the tour. Lined Quail-Dove Geotrygon linearis (H): This shy dove was regularly heard but only seen briefly by the leader in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. White-throated Quail-Dove Geotrygon frenata (H): Heard at Laguna Pedro Palo and at El 18 near Cali. 15 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

16 PSITTACIDAE Blue and yellow Macaw Ara ararauna: A pair seen near the Screamer marsh. Chestnut-fronted Macaw Ara severa: Several pairs seen at a nesting tree at the Screamer marsh in the Magdalena valley. Scarlet-fronted Parakeet (Red-fronted P) Aratinga wagleri: Heard at numerous sites throughout but not seen until the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Here the nominate race. Species in this genus, as well as Leptosittaca and those in Pyrrhura, often go by the name conure. Brown-throated Parakeet Aratinga pertinax: We saw small numbers at a good many sites. Golden-plumed Parakeet (G-p Parrot) Leptosittaca branickii (H): We only heard this uncommon species. A very localised although widespread species, probably best considered vulnerable. This species is largely dependent on wax palms (Ceroxylon) for nest sites and it is feared, by some, that this species could suffer the same fate as the related Yelloweared Parrot. Classified as Vulnerable by BirdLife International with a population estimated between 2,500 9,999. Forest fragmentation and degradation have caused range and population declines throughout its range although it has never been a common species. Yellow-eared Parrot Ognorhynchus icterotis: We saw this species at Las Tangaras where six flew over our heads. We then saw several pairs above Jardin where a pair were watched perched in a fruiting tree. Classified as Critically Endangered by BirdLife International, the world Population is estimated at just 600 individuals but is currently increasing. Recent evidence suggests the population around Jardin is c250. This species is Critically Endangered because the known range (especially the nesting area) is extremely small. Suitable habitat is severely fragmented throughout its historical range and continues to be lost and degraded. Conservation action is addressing some of the key issues but the future of this species remains extremely uncertain. It has suffered considerable habitat loss and fragmentation (90-93% of montane forest in Colombia) throughout its range. However, several sizeable areas of habitat remain within its historic range, suggesting additional causes of decline. Wax palm mortality is accelerating and they suffer poor recruitment because cattle browse young trees, and logging in adjacent areas increases their susceptibility to disease. Wax palms are incredibly long-lived and slow-growing (mature individuals are over 500 years old) and they are used in Palm Sunday Church services. Santa Marta Parakeet Pyrrhura viridicata: In some years hard to see along the San Lorenzo Ridge of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. However, this year it was rather easy and we had several sightings and we all had good scope views of perched birds. Classified as Endangered by BirdLife International, the world population is estimated at 5,000 10,000 individuals and decreasing. Only 15% of the original vegetation in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta remains, albeit largely on the north slope, where this species occurs. The main threat is the conversion of forest to marijuana and coca plantations, which was compounded by the government spraying herbicides on the sierra. It is not known whether this approach is still taken by the Colombian authorities. Green-rumped Parrotlet Forpus passerinus: We saw about twenty plus birds on the day that we went to La Guajira Peninsula. Spectacled Parrotlet Forpus conspicillatus: A near-endemic that first showed in spectacular numbers at Laguna de Sonso with smaller numbers seen elsewhere. Orange-chinned Parakeet Brotogeris jugularis: Common at Rio Claro and a few were also seen in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Saffron-headed Parrot Pionopsitta pyrilia: Five seen at Rio Claro. A spectacular near endemic species considered near threatened. Blue-headed Parrot Pionus menstruus: We saw 15 birds at Laguna de Sonso and more were seen in the Rio Claro region, all of the race rubrigularis. 16 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

17 Red-billed Parrot Pionus sordidus: Only seen in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, where it is represented by the endemic race saturatus. A species conspicuously absent from most of the remainder of the country. Bronze-winged Parrot Pionus chalcopterus: Several sightings in the Otun Quimbaya NP. Yellow-crowned Parrot (Y-c Amazon) Amazona ochrocephala: A pair at the Screamer Marsh. Scaly-naped Parrot (S-n Amazon) Amazona mercenaria: We saw 4 in the Otun Quimbaya NP and saw a good many more in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta too. CUCULIDAE Squirrel Cuckoo Piaya cayana: Seen and heard throughout the tour. Little Cuckoo Piaya minuta (H): One heard at La Mesa. Greater Ani Crotophaga major: Our first group were seen at Laguna de Sonso with others seen at scattered localities throughout. Smooth-billed Ani Crotophaga ani: Very common and widespread. The default ani in most of the country. Groove-billed Ani Crotophaga sulcirostris: A few seen well at La Guajira. Striped Cuckoo Tapera naevia : Seen at the screamer marsh and on the Guajira Peninsula. STRIGIDAE Tropical Screech-Owl Megascops choliba (H): Heard at Jardin in the hotel garden. Santa Marta Screech-Owl Megascops gilesi (H): Several pairs heard at the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. This new species is in the process of being formally described as M. gilesi. It is currently known only from a tiny area on the San Lorenzo ridge in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta from m elevation. It ill likely prove to be more widespread in the mountain range once more areas are surveyed. Note that all New World Otus are now placed in Megascops. Colombian Screech Owl Megascops columbianus (LO): One seen at Otun Quimbaya. White-throated Screech-Owl Megascops albogularis (H): On our first morning we only heard it in the Rio Blanco Reserve. Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl Glaucidium brasilianum: Two individuals were seen in the dry scrub at La Guajira. Mottled Owl Ciccaba virgata (H): This species was only heard in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. STEATORNITHIDAE Oilbird Steatornis caripensis: Our excursion into the Gruta del Condor at Rio Claro produced fabulous views of a few of these strange birds. CAPRIMULGIDAE Rufous-bellied Nighthawk Lurocalis rufiventris (H): Several heard at Otun Quimbaya delivering their Potoo-like song. Common Nighthawk Chordeiles minor: We enjoyed fantastic views of roosting birds in a tree at Laguna de Sonso. These are wintering birds from further north. Pauraque (Common P) Nyctidromus albicollis: A couple seen at Otun Quimbaya. Band-winged Nightjar Caprimulgus longirostris: A couple seen at Las Tangaras and others heard in the Sierra Nevada National Park. APODIDAE White-collared Swift Streptoprocne zonaris: Some small flocks seen at El 18 and thereafter at Jardin and elsewhere. Chestnut-collared Swift Streptoprocne rutilus: First seen at Otun Quimbaya and others seen in company with the above species. 17 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

18 Short-tailed Swift Chaetura brachyura: A few of these distinctively shaped birds were seen at the Screamer Marsh. TROCHILIDAE Rufous-breasted Hermit (Hairy H) Glaucis hirsuta: Several seen at Minca and Rio Claro. Green Hermit Phaethornis guy: A couple seen at Anori. Tawny-bellied Hermit Phaethornis syrmatophorus: A couple seen at Las Tangaras and Jardin. Long-billed Hermit Phaethornis longirostris: We saw several at Rio Claro where one pair was watched nest building. Pale-bellied Hermit Phaethornis anthophilus: Two birds were seen on the feeders at Minca in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. White-necked Jacobin Florisuga mellivora: Very numerous at hummingbird feeders throughout. Brown Violetear Colibri delphinae: It was also the hummingbird feeders near El 18 and El Dorado in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Green Violetear Colibri thalassinus: First seen on the feeders of the Rio Blanco reserve but many more at El Dorado in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Thalassinus is Latin for sea green. Sparkling Violetear Colibri coruscans: The first birds were seen at Montana del Oso and subsequently found to be common in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Tooth-billed Hummingbird Androdon aequatorialis: A single bird found feeding on roadside flowers below Las Tanagaras. A very uncommon bird that is seen only infrequently. Black-throated Mango Anthracothorax nigricollis: Small numbers were seen at various locations with the best views at the hummingbird feeders near to El 18 and at Minca. Ruby-Topaz Hummingbird Chrysolampis mosquitus: We found several on the flowering Erythrina trees at Laguna de Sonso. Western Emerald (West Andean E) Chlorostilbon melanorhynchus: Several seen at Las Tangaras. Red-billed Emerald Chlorostilbon gibsoni: Several seen on the Guajira Peninsula. Violet-crowned Woodnymph (Blue-c W) Thalurania colombica: Seen at Laguna Pedro Palo but it was more common in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Green-crowned Woodnymph Thalurania fannyi: It was quite common on the feeders at Anori. Sapphire-bellied Hummingbird Lepidopyga lilliae: A unexpected rarity found on flowering trees in the mangroves of Isla Salamanca National Park. The taxonomy of this species is un certain with some authorities considering it to be a colour morph of Sapphire-throated Hummingbird Lepidopyga coeruleogularis. The movements and population size of this rare bird is rather poorly known and it is classified critically endangered by Birdlife International. It is known locally on the Caribbean coast of Colombia (Atlántico, Magdalena and La Guajira), most records originating in Isla de Salamanca National Park or Ciénaga Grande de Santa Marta. The population size is low and it appears to move locally according to season. It is likely to have declined since the mid-1970s owing to habitat loss. Blue-headed Sapphire Hylocharis grayi: One seen at the El 18 feeders. Another range restricted species and a fine bird into the bargain. Buffy Hummingbird Leucippus fallax: We saw at least six individuals of this species in the arid country of La Guajira. Andean Emerald Amazilia franciae: Common at several sets of feeders. Indigo-capped Hummingbird Amazilia cyanifrons: A single bird was seen at Laguna Pedro Palo. Steely-vented Hummingbird Amazilia saucerrottei: At least 35 were noted at the hummer feeders at El 18 and a good many on the feeders at Anori and Minca as well. Rufous-tailed Hummingbird Amazilia tzacatl: This common and widespread species was regularly encountered in small numbers. White-vented Plumeleteer Chalybura buffonii: We this large hummingbird on the feeders at Minca. 18 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

19 Speckled Hummingbird Adelomyia melanogenys: This is usually more common and widespread, but we recorded only a few birds at the Rio Blanco Reserve and above Jardin. Blossomcrown Anthocephala floriceps: We saw one male and maybe two females above Minca. This species is classified as Vulnerable by BirdLife International. It has a disjunct range in central and north-east Colombia. The nominate subspecies occurs on the north and southeast slopes of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, where it has recently been found to remain common. Subspecies berlepschi is found in the Central Andes on Volcán Tolima in Quindío and Tolima, and south on the east slope to Huila with a single record in This is an endemic bird to Colombia. Fawn-breasted Brilliant Heliodoxa rubinoides: We saw several individuals on feeders at El 18 and elsewhere. This was the aequatorialis race. Green-crowned Brilliant Heliodoxa jacula: A female was seen on feeders at El 18 and later found to be common on the feeders at Anori. Empress Brilliant Heliodoxa imperatrix: A total of six birds were seen at feeders at Las Tangaras. One of the many Chocó specialities that we saw in this excellent area. White-tailed Hillstar Urochroa bougueri: Seen at Las Tangaras of the nominate race. This form has an obvious rufous malar stripe and could be called the Rufous-gaped Hillstar as suggested by Paul Coopmans! Purple-bibbed Whitetip Urosticte benjamini: A single female seen at Las Tangaras. Bronzy Inca Coeligena coeligena: We saw several birds at feeders throughout. Brown Inca Coeligena wilsoni: We had good views of this Chocó speciality at Las Tangaras. Collared Inca Coeligena torquata: A common and very smart cloud forest hummer seen several times. Blue-throated Starfrontlet Coeligena helianthea: We made a minor modification to our itinerary for this bird by visiting the Montana del Oso north of Bogota. A near endemic found only on the Paramo de Tama in Tachira outside Colombia. White-tailed Starfrontlet Coeligena phalerata: A total of six birds was seen in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Mostly males at the feeders at El Dorado. A very smart hummingbird. This is another Colombian endemic. Buff-winged Starfrontlet Coeligena lutetiae: One seen on our day above Manizales. Buff-tailed Coronet Boissonneaua flavescens: Common and conspicuous around the feeders at the Rio Blanco Reserve. Velvet-purple Coronet Boissonneaua jardini: Several seen at Las Tangaras. Tourmaline Sunangel Heliangelus exortis: This species was seen on feeders at Rio Blanco and at Jardin. Green Thorntail Discosura conversii: Quite common below the lodge at Las Tangaras. Glowing Puffleg Eriocnemis vestitus: We saw three at Montana del Oso and others at Cerro de Guadalupe near Bogotá. Coppery-bellied Puffleg Eriocnemis cupreoventris: Fairly common at Cerro La Guadalupe above Bogotá. Classified as Near Threatened by BirdLife International, it occurs from the Mérida Mountains, north-west Venezuela, south along both slopes of the East Andes to Cundinamarca, north-east Colombia. It is apparently uncommon in montane and elfin forest borders, páramo vegetation with scattered low shrubs and, in Cundinamarca, secondary scrub (nesting in dense vegetation), at 1,950-3,000m. Its habitats in the Colombian East Andes have been extensively degraded, with forest in its lower elevational range, on the western slope, largely cleared for intensive crop cultivation and pasture. Deforestation is locally severe in Mérida and Táchira, Venezuela, primarily owing to agricultural colonization, with many areas of páramo and forest already cleared for commercial and subsistence cultivation. Golden-breasted Puffleg Eriocnemis mosquera: We had good views of two during our day spent at Nevado del Ruiz. A restricted-range species shared with Ecuador. Greenish Puffleg Haplophaedia aureliae: Seen at many sites throughout. 19 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

20 Booted Racket-tail Ocreatus underwoodii: Common at Laguna Pedro Palo, EL 18 and Anori. Purple-backed Thornbill Ramphomicron microrhynchum: A superb male seen at Rio Blanco. Viridian Metaltail Metallura williami: A few seen in the higher areas along the Nevado del Ruiz road. Tyrian Metaltail Metallura tyrianthina: We saw both the reddish-tailed nominate race in all three Andean chains, and the very distinct and blue-tailed districta, endemic to the Santa Marta and Perijá Mountains. Bearded Helmetcrest Oxypogon guerinii: A most spectacular species that we saw along the Nevado del Ruiz road. This form being the blue-bearded stuebelii race. Long-tailed Sylph Aglaiocercus kingi: We saw one at El 18 and another at the Rio Blanco Reserve. The subspecies here, emmae, is characterized by the lack of a throat patch and a shimmering green upper tail. It has sometimes been considered a separate species, usually incorporating caudatus or mocoa, or both, as races. Violet-tailed Sylph Aglaiocercus coelestis: We enjoyed some fantastic views of both males and females of this superb Chocó endemic at Las Tangaras. Santa Marta Woodstar Chaetocercus astreans (NL): A female and a male was seen below El Dorado in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Purple-throated Woodstar Philodice mitchellii: Seen on the feeders near El 18. White-bellied Woodstar Chaetocercus mulsant: Seen on feeders in the grounds of our Manizales hotel, at the Rio Blanco Reserve and one at Anori. TROGONIDAE White-tipped Quetzal Pharomachrus fulgidus: We only managed to glimpse a pair of this species but heard other individuals in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. This is the Santa Marta endemic form festatus. One of the species shared between the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and Venezuela s coastal cordilleras. Crested Quetzal Pharomachrus antisiensis (H): Heard at Las Tangaras. Golden-headed Quetzal Pharomachrus auriceps: A couple of fine males seen at Otun Quimbaya. Western White-tailed Trogon Trogon chionurus: Several seen in the Rio Claro area. Collared Trogon Trogon collaris: A good number seen at Otun Quimbaya. They can be separated from the following species by the width of the tail barring. Masked Trogon Trogon personatus: One seen briefly at Laguna Pedro Palo and others at Rio Blanco. Black-throated Trogon Trogon rufus: A pair along the Oilbird cave stream in the Rio Claro area. Gartered Trogon (Northern Violaceous) Trogon caligatus: Great views of a male in the Rio Claro area. ALCEDINIDAE Ringed Kingfisher Megaceryle torquata: Seen at many wetland sites throughout. The largest kingfisher in the Americas, and the world s second largest. The New World Kingfishers, together with some Old World forms, are sometimes split off as a separate family, the Cerylidae. Amazon Kingfisher Chloroceryle amazona: A few seen at Laguna de Sonso. Green Kingfisher Chloroceryle americana: A few seen at the screamer marsh and another in the Isla Salamanca National Park. MOMOTIDAE Rufous Motmot Baryphthengus martii: Seen near Rio Claro of the semirufus race. Broad-billed Motmot Electron platyrhynchum: Seen along the Oilbird trail in the Rio Claro area. Whooping Motmot Momotus subrufescens: Good views of one at Minca on the lower slopes of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. It is a rather recent split of Blue-crowned Motmot in a recent paper by Gary Stiles. This species complex has recently been split into six species. The one we saw is the trans-andean form Whooping Motmot M. subrufescens (E Panama and NW South America). The five additional forms are Blue-crowned Motmot, Momotus coeruliceps (NE Mexico); Blue-diademed Motmot, Momotus lessonii (Middle America); 20 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

21 Amazonian Motmot, Momotus momota (Amazon basin); Trinidad Motmot, Momotus bahamensis (Trinidad and Tobago) and Andean Motmot Momotus aequatorialis. A second author called for the form found in W Ecuador and NW Peru to receive separate species status, Silver-banded Motmot Momotus argenticinctus, but this has yet to be widely accepted. Andean (Highland) Motmot Momotus aequatorialis: Somewhat common throughout the tour. Note the recent English name change from Highland. GALBULIDAE Rufous-tailed Jacamar Galbula ruficauda: Also quite common in the north. BUCCONIDAE Barred Puffbird Nystalus radiatus: We saw a pair at Rio Claro. Russet-throated Puffbird Hypnelus ruficollis: This was really quite numerous at La Guajira Peninsula and at the Isla Salamanca National Park. Note that this and Two-banded Puffbird H. bicinctus are treated as separate species by some authorities. Moustached Puffbird Malacoptila mystacalis: A single bird was seen and another heard at Anori. CAPITONIDAE White-mantled Barbet Capito hypoleucus: We worked hard for this one at Rio Claro. An eleventh hour bird found near the entrance to Rio Claro. We enjoyed spectacular views of a male calling above us. It is a Nechí lowlands endemic, confined to the humid forests of the middle Magdalena Valley. Classified as Endangered by BirdLife International, the world population is estimated at 2,500 9,999 individuals and is decreasing. This species has a very small and severely fragmented range. Habitat loss is occurring rapidly in some parts of its range, and the population is likely to be declining. This is an endemic bird to Colombia. Red-headed Barbet Eubucco bourcierii: We saw this bird at numerous sites. Toucan Barbet Semnornis ramphastinus: This striking Chocó endemic was common at Las Tangaras. RAMPHASTIDAE Yellow-billed Toucanet Aulacorhynchus calorhynchus: We found a pair at a nest hole above Minca. Andean Toucanet Aulacorhynchus albivitta: Seen and heard at numerous sites throughout the Andes. Santa Marta Toucanet Aulacorhynchus lautus: We enjoyed some great views of several pairs in the higher parts of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Crimson-rumped Toucanet Aulacorhynchus haematopygus: One seen at Las Tangaras. Collared Aracari Pteroglossus torquatus: It was commonly seen in the Rio Claro area. Black-billed Mountain-Toucan Andigena nigrirostris: We had good looks at four near Jardin. Colombia is clearly the place to see this often shy species. Citron-throated Toucan Ramphastos citreolaemus: We saw one and heard others in the Rio Claro area. This form is often lumped in Channel-billed Toucan R. vitellinus. If it is split then it is a near endemic, which just creeps into Venezuela. Keel-billed Toucan Ramphastos sulfuratus: One seen near Minca. Chestnut-mandibled Toucan Ramphastos swainsonii (H): Several were heard in the Rio Claro area. PICIDAE Chestnut Piculet Picumnus cinnamomeus: We saw several pairs on the Guajira Peninsula and another in the Isla Salamanca National Park. This fairly localized species also occurs in western Venezuela but far more easy to see in Colombia. Olivaceous Piculet Picumnus olivaceus: Up to three at Laguna Pedro Palo. 21 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

22 Greyish Piculet Picumnus granadensis: We came across this species at Otun Quimbaya and they allowed prolonged scope views for everybody. Often not an easy species to come by. A Colombian endemic. Spot-breasted Woodpecker Chrysoptilus punctigula: Two were seen at Laguna de Sonso area in riverine woodlands. Crimson-mantled Woodpecker Piculus rivolii: This stunner was first seen at the Rio Blanco Reserve and another was seen very well at Jardin. Woodpeckers don t get much better than that! Golden-olive Woodpecker Piculus rubiginosus: A widespread but quite variable species. We saw several at EL 18, Otun Quimbaya and another one along the Amalfi road. This was the endemic gularis race. Cinnamon Woodpecker Celeus loricatus: The only non-amazonian Celeus woodpecker in Colombia was seen very well in the Rio Claro area. A stunning species seen very well with scope views for all. Lineated Woodpecker Dryocopus lineatus: We saw a pair at El 18 and heard others elsewhere. Acorn Woodpecker Melanerpes formicivorus: Seen at Pedro Palo area near Bogotá. Red-crowned Woodpecker Melanerpes rubricapillus: Common throughout the tour. Smoky-brown Woodpecker Veniliornis fumigatus: First seen at Laguna Pedro Palo, and later at Las Tangaras. Red-rumped Woodpecker Veniliornis kirkii: One seen above La Mesa. Yellow-vented Woodpecker Veniliornis dignus: We enjoyed great views of this localised species at Las Tangaras. Crimson-crested Woodpecker Campephilus melanoleucos: A pair seen at El 18 And others at Laguna de Sonso. Powerful Woodpecker Campephilus pollens: A female seen at Otun Quimbaya. An uncommon species not seen that frequently in Colombia. FURNARIIDAE Stout-billed Cinclodes Cinclodes excelsior: A number seen along the Nevado del Ruiz road. Caribbean Hornero Furnarius longirostris: Many heard and one seen very briefly at la Guajira. Andean Tit-Spinetail Leptasthenura andicola: We saw several pairs along the Nevado del Ruiz road. Here of the race andicola. Azara s Spinetail Synallaxis azarae: seen and heard at many sites throughout. Silvery-throated Spinetail Synallaxis subpudica: We heard and saw quite a number of pairs at Montana del Oso and managed to get good views of a number of individuals during the course of the morning there. This is Colombian endemic. Pale-breasted Spinetail Synallaxis albescens: Common at La Mesa where we all had great views of a very responsive pair. Slaty Spinetail Synallaxis brachyura: At least two pairs seen at Laguna Pedro Palo and others heard both there at La Mesa. A pair found nest building at Anori. Rusty-headed Spinetail Synallaxis fuscorufa: An attractive Santa Marta endemic that we all saw very well high on the San Lorenzo ridge. Classified as Vulnerable by BirdLife International, the world population is estimated at between 2,500 and 9,999 and is thought to be decreasing. This species has a small range and population, which is fragmented and declining due to habitat destruction caused by illegal agriculture, logging and burning. Intensification of these pressures, and hence increased inferred rates of population decline have led to its up listing to Vulnerable. It may even warrant up listing to Endangered once more detailed information on rates of forest loss becomes available. This is an endemic to Colombia. White-whiskered Spinetail Synallaxis candei: A lovely looking spinetail, of which we saw several at La Guajira. This species has a relatively small range in north-eastern Colombia and northwestern Venezuela. 22 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

23 White-browed Spinetail Hellmayrea gularis (H): We heard this species at several sites. This attractive and unusual looking spinetail is in a monotypic genus named after Carl Eduard Hellmayr ( ), a German/US ornithologist and author of the Catalogue of birds of the Americas, 1924, a classic work that is still a very important reference for anyone with a serious interest in the taxonomy and distribution of Neotropical birds. Yellow-chinned Spinetail Certhiaxis cinnamomea: Seen at the screamer marsh and in the Isla Salamanca National Park. Streak-capped Spinetail Cranioleuca hellmayri: We saw several pairs in mixed flocks above San Lorenzo. Ash-browed Spinetail Cranioleuca curtata: Common at Laguna Pedro Palo, near to Bogotá. Red-faced Spinetail Cranioleuca erythrops: A few at El 18, west of Cali and at Anori. White-chinned Thistletail Schizoeaca fuliginosa: Great views of three along the Nevado del Ruiz road. Many-striped Canastero Asthenes flammulata: Another highland furnarid that showed very well along the Nevado del Ruiz road, where we saw a pair. Pearled Treerunner Margarornis squamiger: A most handsome species seen very well in the mixed flocks at Rio Blanco, along the Nevado del Ruiz road and above Jardin. Fulvous-dotted Treerunner (Star-chested T) Margarornis stellaris: Common at Las Tangaras in mixed flocks. This species is highly localized in very wet mossy Chocó forest. Classified as Near Threatened by BirdLife International, this species occurs on the west slope of the West Andes from west Colombia (south Chocó) south to Carchi, Ecuador. It is rare in Ecuador, and, though formerly considered relatively common in Colombia, the extent of habitat destruction within its range suggests that it has declined. Spotted Barbtail Premnoplex brunnescens: Seen at Otun Quimbaya and La Romera. Streaked Tuftedcheek Pseudocolaptes boissonneautii: Seen at Jardin. Pacific Tuftedcheek Pseudocolaptes johnsoni: A pair seen at Las Tangaras. Western Woodhaunter Hyloctistes virgatus: A pair Anori in an understorey. Lineated Foliage-gleaner Syndactyla subalaris: Great of this often shy species at Pedro Palo and Anori. Scaly-throated Foliage-gleaner (S-breasted F-g) Anabacerthia variegaticeps: Good looks at several at Las Tangaras. Birds here belong to the race temporalis, which has sometimes been treated as a race of the next species. Montane Foliage-gleaner Anabacerthia striaticollis: Common at Pedro Palo, El 18 and at Otun Quimbaya. Santa Marta Foliage-gleaner Automolus rufipectus: Somewhat brief views of this skulker above Minca in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Formally lumped in Ruddy Foliage-gleaner, this interesting and vocally distinct endemic has recently been described as an endemic species to Colombia. Buff-fronted Foliage-gleaner Philydor rufus: Our only sightings were of a pair at Anori. Streak-capped Treehunter Thripadectes virgaticeps: We had good views of a pair at El 18. Streaked Xenops Xenops rutilans: We saw a few at a number of sites. Plain Xenops Xenops minutus: A few were seen in the Rio Claro area. DENDROCOLAPTIDAE Plain-brown Woodcreeper Dendrocincla fuliginosa: One seen near Rio Claro. Olivaceous Woodcreeper Sittasomus griseicapillus: Seen near Rio Claro. Wedge-billed Woodcreeper Glyphorynchus spirurus: Seen at the Rio Claro reserve. The smallest in the family and also one of the most primitive, with cranial specialization for hammering on wood like a diminutive woodpecker, a feature lost in more modern woodcreepers. Strong-billed Woodcreeper Xiphocolaptes promeropirhynchus: A single bird seen at Otun Quimbaya and others heard elsewhere. 23 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

24 Straight-billed Woodcreeper Xiphorhynchus picus: Common in drier woodlands and wetland areas. The(dugandi race) being found in the Cauca and Magdalena valleys while on La Guajira and in the Isla Salamanca National Park at the end of the tour (picirostris race). Cocoa Woodcreeper Xiphorhynchus susurrans: One seen at Laguna Sonso. Very common by voice in the Rio Claro area. Streak-headed Woodcreeper Lepidocolaptes souleyetii: An open country species that we first saw in the light woodland of Laguna de Sonso, and we went on to see at least four others in the Rio Claro area. Montane Woodcreeper Lepidocolaptes lacrymiger: This attractive and well-marked woodcreeper was regularly seen in the Western and Central Andes (the endemic sneiderni), and also in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta (the endemic sanctaemartae). This latter race is very wellmarked giving an almost black and white appearance below. THAMNOPHILIDAE Great Antshrike Taraba major (H): Several heard near Rio Claro. Maracaibo Antshrike Sakesphorus pulchellus: Common in the dry forest at La Guajira and in the Isla Salamanca National Park. The form here being phainoleucus. This rather pale species together with pulchellus is lumped in Black-crested Antshrike by Hilty but both plumage and vocalisations are distinct. Black-backed Antshrike Sakesphorus melanonotus: A couple of this rather localized species were very briefly seen near Minca on the lower slopes of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Barred Antshrike Thamnophilus doliatus: a few seen near Minca on the lower slopes of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Bar-crested Antshrike Thamnophilus multistriatus: This is a common species throughout hilly and montane areas of Colombia. A near-endemic, generally replacing the previous species at higher elevations. Outside Colombia only known from the Venezuelan side of the Sierra de Perijá. Uniform Antshrike Thamnophilus unicolor: Great views of a female at EL 18 and at Las Tangaras. The form concerned in Colombia is grandior. Western Slaty-Antshrike Thamnophilus atrinucha: A single bird was seen in the Isla de Salamanca National Park. Plain Antvireo Dysithamnus mentalis: Seen at Pedro Palo and another one at Anori. This is the extremus race. Moustached Antwren Myrmotherula ignota: A pair was seen along the trail to the Oilbird cave near Rio Claro and another at another nearby site. The taxonomic history of this form is somewhat convoluted it having been variously considered part of Pygmy Antwren M. Brachyura, a separate species M. Ignota and finally lumped in Moustached Antwren M. ignota. Pacific Streaked-Antwren (Pacific A) Myrmotherula pacifica: A couple of pairs at Rio Claro. Checker-throated Antwren Myrmotherula fulviventris: A single bird was seen near Rio Claro. This is one of several species of dead-leaf specialist antwren species that are now placed in the separate genus Epinecrophylla. White-flanked Antwren Myrmotherula axillaris: Several seen near Rio Claro. Northern White-fringed Antwren Formicivora intermedia: Fairly common at La Guajira. Long-tailed Antbird Drymophila caudate: A pair seen at Rio Blanco. Rufous-rumped Antwren Terenura callinota: Two birds were seen in a huge canopy flock along the ridge at Las Tangaras and another at Anori. Parker s Antbird Cercomacra parkeri: We all had excellent views of a pair of this recently described species in Anori. This is an endemic species. Chestnut-backed Antbird Myrmeciza exsul: This understorey species was heard and finally seen near Rio Claro. 24 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

25 Magdalena Antbird Myrmeciza palliata (H): Heard below Anori rather briefly. This species was previously lumped in Dull-mantled Antbird M. laemosticta. Another near endemic species. Immaculate Antbird Myrmeciza immaculata (H): Heard below Las Tangaras but not seen. A very common species in the Ecuadorian Choco. Bicoloured Antbird Gymnopithys bicolor: Up to six birds seen on an ant swarm at Rio Claro. We had outstanding views of this often rather shy species. FORMICARIIDAE Black-faced Antthrush Formicarius analis (H): Several heard near the Oilbird cave at Rio Claro. The call of this saturatus race here was very different from the Amazonian birds. Note that molecular data indicates that antthrushes closest relatives are tapaculos and not antbirds and antpittas. GRALLARIDAE Undulated Antpitta Grallaria squamigera (H): One was heard at Montana del Oso. Moustached Antpitta Grallaria alleni (H): One heard at Otun Quimbaya. This is another species rather easily seen at the Angel Paz reserve but which is normally time consuming hard work. Chestnut-crowned Antpitta Grallaria ruficapilla: This very attractive species was seen amazingly well at Rio Blanco and we could watch two bold individuals that had taken charge of the worms at the feeders! Santa Marta Antpitta Grallaria bangsi: We had great views at the new feeder at El Dorado lodge in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. This species has been up listed to Vulnerable because new information suggests that it has a small range, which is fragmented and declining owing to habitat destruction caused by illegal agriculture, logging and burning. It is currently described as common, but its population size is unknown. However, it is likely to be undergoing a rapid decline as a result of habitat loss. This is an endemic bird to Colombia. Bicolored Antpitta Grallaria rufocinerea: We had spectacular views of this super-skulker at Rio Blanco. This is the nominate form here in the Central Andes of Colombia. Chestnut-naped Antpitta Grallaria nuchalis: Again great views of this large antpitta on the feeders at Rio Blanco. This is the endemic ruficeps race here. Yellow-breasted Antpitta Grallaria flavotincta (H): This Chocó endemic was heard several times at Las Tangaras. It is very easy in Ecuador where they are fed by Angel Paz. Rufous Antpitta Grallaria rufula: We heard several at Montana del Oso and saw one along the Nevado del Ruiz road and another at Jardin. Santa Marta Rufous Antpitta Grallaria [rufula] spatiator (H): Heard only on the San Lorenzo ridge in thick bamboo in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. It certainly must be a different species from the one above; the vocalizations are so fundamentally different! A thorough review of the various Rufous Antpitta forms is long overdue. If it was split then it would be a Colombian endemic. Tawny Antpitta Grallaria quitensis: We had spectacular looks at two along the Nevado del Ruiz road. Brown-banded Antpitta Grallaria milleri: We saw at least three at the feeding stations at Rio Blanco. Classified as Endangered by BirdLife International, the world population is estimated at individuals and is decreasing. This species is known from very few locations in a very small range; most certainly an endemic bird to Colombia! Ochre-breasted Antpitta Grallaricula flavirostris: One was seen very well at Anori. Rusty-breasted Antpitta Grallaricula ferrugineipectus: All of us enjoyed good views of this species in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. This is the nominate form here but rather different from the birds further south and definitely a taxonomic revision is also long overdue! Slate-crowned Antpitta Grallaricula nana: At Rio Blanco one came to the feeding station. 25 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

26 RHINOCRYPTIDAE Ash-coloured Tapaculo Myornis senilis: Seen and heard at number of sites. A monotypic genus, with a noticeably longer tail than in Scytalopus spp. Northern White-crowned Tapaculo Scytalopus atratus (H): Heard at Anori where a number of birds remained out of sight. Blackish Tapaculo Scytalopus latrans: We heard several at Rio Blanco and saw one at the Antpitta feeding area. Alto Pisiones Tapaculo Scytalopus sp nov (H): Yet another Scytalopus species. We were unable to actually see the poor individual representing this species as it occurs at a site at the Las Tangaras reserve where it has no doubt been teased out with tape rather too frequently, Choco Tapaculo Scytalopus chocoensis (H): Heard below Las Tangaras This form was formerly lumped in Nariño Tapaculo S. vicinior. Stiles s Tapaculo Scytalopus stilesi: Seen at our feet at Anori where it shuffled around in the leaf litter. We then very briefly saw a couple at La Romera while searching for Yellow-headed Manakin. Named for Gary Stiles, an active professor of Colombia s National University, author of The Birds of Costa Rica and an influential member of the SACC. This is an endemic bird to Colombia. Nariño Tapaculo Scytalopus vicinior: This tapaculo showed very well at Las Tangaras. Mattoral Tapaculo (Rufous-rumped T) Scytalopus griseicollis: After some considerable effort we saw one individual very well at Cerro la Guadalupe. This is a Colombian endemic. Brown-rumped Tapaculo Scytalopus latebricola (H): We only managed to hear this one as time did not permit us the luxury of trying to see one. This species replaces the Santa Marta Tapaculo at higher elevations. This is an endemic bird to Colombia. Spillmann s Tapaculo Scytalopus spillmanni (H): We heard a number of this one at Rio Blanco and at Jardin. Paramo Tapaculo Scytalopus canus (H): We heard a number of this species in the thick fog at Nevado del Ruiz. Ocellated Tapaculo Acropternis orthonyx (H): In spite of a serious effort being made a pair failed to appear at Rio Blanco. It called close to us for a long time from a dense tangle of dead bamboo and ferns. PIPRIDAE Golden-winged Manakin Masius chrysopterus: Several females and a male seen in mixed flocks at Anori. White-bearded Manakin Manacus manacus: Common in the Rio Claro area. Western Striped Manakin Machaeropterus striolatus: Great views of several near Rio Claro. The endemic race antioquiae, named after the Antioquia Department, in the eastern part of which Rio Claro is located, and of which Medellin is the capital. Yellow-headed Manakin Xenopipo flavicapilla: A morning visit to La Romera above Medellin provided us with stunning views of this rarely seen species. This was, quite justifiably, bird of the trip. It is classified as Near Threatened by BirdLife International, the world population is estimated at 10,000 individuals and is decreasing. Much of its range is within prime agricultural land, some of which has already been cleared, and the rest is probably threatened. Golden-headed Manakin Pipra erythrocephala: A number of males seen at a lek near Rio Claro. A spectacular species to watch displaying and always good to see. Blue-crowned Manakin Lepidothrix coronata: Up to six males seen near Rio Claro in an exploded lek along the length of a ridge. Wing-barred Manakin (Wing-b Piprites) Piprites piprites: We had reasonable views of a couple of birds at Anori. 26 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

27 COTINGIDAE Red-crested Cotinga Ampelion rubrocristatus: Two birds seen during a brief fog free moment along the Nevado del Ruiz road. Green-and-black Fruiteater Pipreola riefferii: First seen at El 18 where we saw a pair and at least 15 more were seen and heard at other sites. Barred Fruiteater Pipreola arcuata: A pair was seen at Jardin. Golden-breasted Fruiteater Pipreola aureopectus: Several pairs were seen in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Here the race decora, endemic to this massive mountain range. Chestnut-capped Piha Lipaugus weberi: A single calling bird was seen along the ridge trail at Anori. Classified as Endangered by BirdLife International, the world population is estimated at 1,000 2,499 individuals and is decreasing. This recently described species has a very small and severely fragmented range and population. Remaining forest continues to be degraded and destroyed, and its range and population are therefore inferred to be declining. This is an endemic bird to Colombia. Red-ruffed Fruitcrow Pyroderus scutatus: Very common at Otun Quimbaya where we saw about 20 birds in total. It seemed that both this species and the endemic Cauca guan liked the introduced trees lining the road for several kilometres. Here the near-endemic (there are a few records from NW Ecuador) race occidentalis, showing a solid reddish/chestnut breast and upper belly. Andean Cock-of-the-Rock Rupicola peruviana: We had a pair at Otun Quimbaya and up to 20 males displaying at a lek close to Jardin. Always a spectacle and one of the world s great birding experiences. INCERTAE SEDIS Barred Becard Pachyramphus versicolor: Seen and heard at numerous sites throughout. Cinereous Becard Pachyramphus rufus: Seen and heard at Laguna de Sonso and near Pena Lisa below Jardin. Cinnamon Becard Pachyramphus cinnamomeus: This species was fairly common in the Rio Claro area. White-winged Becard Pachyramphus albogriseus: Seen and heard at Otun Quimbaya and Anori. The form concerned here is the highly distinctive dorsalis. One-coloured Becard Platypsaris homochrous: Seen and heard in the Rio Claro area. Masked Tityra Tityra semifasciata: Several seen at Rio Claro and others near Minca in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. TYRANNIDAE Sooty-headed Tyrannulet Phyllomyias griseiceps: Common to abundant at Laguna Pedro Palo. White-fronted Tyrannulet Phyllomyias zeledoni: A single bird watched at length above La Mesa. A very rare bird that is also tough to identify. Previously lumped in Rough-legged Tyrannulet P. burmeisteri. Black-capped Tyrannulet Phyllomyias nigrocapillus: Several seen at Montana del Oso on our first day. Tawny-rumped Tyrannulet Phyllomyias uropygialis; Several seen at Cerra Guadalupe. Plumbeous-crowned Tyrannulet Phyllomyias plumbeiceps: We had several excellent looks of this canopy species at Otun Quimbaya. Ashy-headed Tyrannulet Phyllomyias cinereiceps: We saw this species in mixed flocks at Otun Quimbaya. Adds to the fun of birding when there are several similar looking tyrannids in the same flock and certainly wakes your leader up. It is truly a marvel of the ecological complexity of the Neotropics to actually be able to see how niche separation operates within such groups of species at one and the same time and place. Venezuelan Tyrannulet Zimmerius improbus: One seen above Minca in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. 27 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

28 Golden-faced Tyrannulet Zimmerius chrysops: The commonest forest tyrannid in the Andes. The recently split Chocó Tyrannulet Z. albigularis occurs further south towards Ecuador. Brown-capped Tyrannulet Ornithion brunneicapillum: Heard and seen high in the canopy at Rio Claro. Southern Beardless Tyrannulet Camptostoma obsoletum: A few seen and heard below Minca and at La Guajira. Mouse-coloured Tyrannulet Phaeomyias murina: A few seen near Pina Lesa and others heard elsewhere in the north. Northern Scrub-Flycatcher Sublegatus arenarum: This one was fairly common in the dry scrubby forest at La Guajira and also recorded in the Isla Salamanca National Park. Yellow-crowned Tyrannulet Tyrannulus elatus: The famous free beer bird first seen well at Laguna de Sonso with several more also seen well in the Rio Claro area. Greenish Elaenia Myiopagis viridicata: A single was noted at Pina Lesa. Yellow-bellied Elaenia Elaenia flavogaster: Common throughout. Mountain Elaenia Elaenia frantzii: A regularly encountered species heard rather more than seen. A pair were nest building in the garden at El Dorado. The subspecies we saw was pudica. The species was named after Alexander von Frantzius, a nineteenth century German collector in Brazil and Costa Rica. White-throated Tyrannulet Mecocerculus leucophrys: A common and widespread highland flycatcher, and often the first to appear and the most inquisitive when trawling with the pygmy-owl tape. We saw the setophagoides race above Bogotá at Cerro la Guadalupe, the notatus subspecies in the Central Andes and montensis, which is endemic to the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. The latter has a greyer throat and is less well marked. White-tailed Tyrannulet Mecocerculus poecilocercus: Fairly common at Rio Blanco with smaller numbers heard elsewhere. Slender-billed Tyrannulet Inezia tenuirostris: Quite numerous by voice along the dry littoral Caribbean. Another species that is restricted to northeast Colombia and northwest Venezuela. Pale-tipped Tyrannulet Inezia caudata: Seen near Camarones and heard in scrub nearby. Clearly not common in the north-west of its range. Agile Tit-Tyrant Anairetes agilis: Quite common by voice although only a pair seen at Cerro La Guadalupe, above Bogotá. A good spot for this uncommon and very localised species. Tawny-crowned Pygmy Tyrant Euscarthmus meloryphus: Abundant in the dry scrub on the Guajira Peninsula although we only saw two. It is necessary to tape one in otherwise they pass as heard only. Streak-necked Flycatcher Mionectes striaticollis: Several of the race colombianus race were seen at Las Tangaras and Otun Quimbaya. Note that this and the following two species are lekforming members of a largely frugivorous genus of flycatchers. It is now considered that they are somewhat more closely allied to Manakins although the complexity of separating the two underscores the problem of reifying the taxonomic arrangement. Olive-striped Flycatcher Mionectes olivaceus: One seen along the entrance track at Laguna Pedro Palo. Ochre-bellied Flycatcher Mionectes oleaginea: It was commonly encountered in the Rio Claro area. Slaty-capped Flycatcher Leptopogon superciliaris: common at Pedro Palo and thereafter seen at many suitable localities. Sepia-capped Flycatcher Leptopogon amaurocephalus: This lowland Leptopogon was seen at Rio Claro where the above species was also found in small numbers. Rufous-breasted Flycatcher Leptopogon rufipectus: It was regularly seen in the understorey flocks at Otun Quimbaya and at Jardin. Marble-faced Bristle-Tyrant Pogonotriccus ophthalmicus: commonly seen at suitable localities. Variegated Bristle-Tyrant Pogonotriccus poecilotis: A pair seen at El 18 and another at Otun Quimbaya. 28 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

29 Rufous-headed Pygmy-Tyrant Pseudotriccus ruficeps: Great views of a bird in the bamboo below Nevado Ruiz. A very smart little bird. Scale-crested Pygmy-Tyrant Lophotriccus pileatus: A number seen well at Las Tanagaras with many others heard throughout. Pale-eyed Pygmy-Tyrant Atalotriccus pilaris: A somewhat obscure tyrannid seen well on the Guajira Peninsula. Rufous-crowned Tody-Tyrant Poecilotriccus ruficeps: A pair seen at the Rio Blanco Reserve. Southern Bentbill Oncostoma olivaceum: Several seen well at shoulder height near Rio Claro. The birds at the exploded lek at the Gruta del Condor is now taped out and indifferent to groups of bird-botherers. Pearly-vented Tody-Tyrant Hemitriccus margaritaceiventer: A common inhabitant of the dry forest at La Guajira where we saw several. Black-throated Tody-Tyrant Hemitriccus granadensis: Great views of a pair in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, here of the endemic lehmanni subspecies. Black-headed tody-flycatcher Todirostrum nigriceps: Seen and heard at Rio Claro and other sites nearby. Common Tody-Flycatcher Todirostrum cinereum: Common above la Mesa where seen nest building. Small numbers of this widespread and common flycatcher was seen at various locations throughout the tour. Slate-headed tody-flycatcher Todirostrum sylvia: Very common by voice in drier deciduous woodlands. Several seen below Anori. Olivaceous Flatbill Rhynchocyclus olivaceus: Interestingly this usually uncommon species was seen several times at Rio Claro. Yellow-olive Flycatcher Tolmomyias sulphurescens: Fairly common throughout. Yellow-breasted Flycatcher Tolmomyias flaviventris: Several pairs seen in the dry forest of the La Guajira. Ornate Flycatcher Myiotriccus ornatus: This pretty flycatcher was seen very well at Las Tangaras and Anori. Flavescent Flycatcher Myiophobus flavicans: Three seen at the Rio Blanco reserve. The genus name is derived from ancient Greek, and can be translated as the one who terrorizes the flies. Handsome Flycatcher Myiophobus pulcher: Seemingly quite numerous at Las Tangaras. The subspecies here is bellus. Cinnamon Flycatcher Pyrrhomyias cinnamomea: Regularly encountered in the Andes (pyrrhoptera), and in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta we saw the endemic assimilis subspecies which was distinctly brighter and more uniformly cinnamon with a rufous tail. Western Wood-Pewee Contopus sordidulus: Seen and heard below Las Tangaras. Smoke-coloured Pewee Contopus fumigatus: Rather uncommon although seen in small numbers at Rio Blanco and Las Tangaras. Acadian Flycatcher Empidonax virescens: A few seen at widely scattered sites. Alder flycatcher Empidonax alnorum: Seen at Pina lesa and near Rio Claro. Black Phoebe Sayornis nigricans: A bird of streams and rivers that was seen fairly frequently after La Mesa. The white-winged race that we saw angustirostris, was previously considered a separate species; the White-winged Phoebe. Vermilion Flycatcher Pyrocephalus rubinus: Small numbers seen throughout. Crowned chat Tyrant Ochthoeca frontalis: We found several pairs along the Nevado de Ruiz road. Brown-backed Chat-Tyrant Ochthoeca fumicolor: Several pairs seen along the Nevada del Ruiz road. The birds we saw belong to the buff browed race brunneiceps. Slaty-backed Chat-Tyrant Ochthoeca cinnamomeiventris: We found a pair at Jardin. Note that the form from the Andes of Venezuela is now split as Blackish Chat-Tyrant O. nigrita and those forms of Peru and Bolivia is split as Chestnut-belted Chat-Tyrant O. Thoracica leaving those forms in Ecuador and Colombia as the Chestnut-bellied Chat-Tyrant O. cinnamomeiventris. 29 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

30 Yellow-bellied Chat-Tyrant Ochthoeca diadema: We saw a single bird form jesupi along the San Lorenzo ridge of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Streak-throated Bush-Tyrant Myiotheretes striaticollis: Three different bird were seen above Jardin. Santa Marta Bush-Tyrant Myiotheretes pernix: We tracked one down along the San Lorenzo ridge. It is classified as Endangered by BirdLife International, the world population is estimated at 1,000 2,499 individuals and is decreasing. This species qualifies as Endangered owing to its very small, severely fragmented range, within which habitat loss is occurring at a rapid rate. Only 15% of the original vegetation in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta remains, albeit largely on the north slope where this species occurs. This is endemic to Colombia. Pied Water-Tyrant Fluvicola pica: Several seen of this distinctive species at Laguna de Sonso and along the Caribbean cost. Long-tailed Tyrant Colonia colonus: A family group noted at Rio Claro. Cattle Tyrant Machetornis rixosus: Seen at numerous sites throughout. Bright-rumped Attila Attila spadiceus: It was heard at El 18 and seen at Rio Claro. The division of this species into two species with those forms from South America east of the Andes being called Bright-rumped Attila separated from those forms found from Mexico south to Western Ecuador and being called the Flammulated Attila is not now generally accepted. Panama Flycatcher Myiarchus panamensis: Seen at Anori, in the Rio Claro area and below Minca in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Apical Flycatcher Myiarchus apicalis: We found one near Pina Lesa and another below Anori. This is endemic to Colombia. Pale-edged Flycatcher Myiarchus cephalotes: We saw this distinctive Myiarchus at Otun Quimbaya and Rio Blanco. Brown-crested Flycatcher Myiarchus tyrannulus: Common in the north. Dusky-capped Flycatcher Myiarchus tuberculifer: A few seen and many more heard throughout. One of the most widespread species in the Americas, ranging from south-western USA into Argentina. However, a recent paper shows that more than one species may be involved, and that (as has been suggested before) the Sad Flycatcher M. barbirostris of Jamaica may be just a race of one of these. Great Kiskadee Pitangus sulphuratus: Common throughout lower lying areas of cut over forest. Boat-billed Flycatcher Megarynchus pitangua: One seen near Minca. None heard although the Yellow-rumped caciques at Rio Claro were providing perfect renditions of the song.. Rusty-margined Flycatcher Myiozetetes cayanensis: Very common from Laguna Pedro Palo onwards. Social Flycatcher Myiozetetes similis: Small numbers seen in the north. Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher Myiodynastes luteiventris: Quite a number seen around Rio Claro. Streaked Flycatcher Myiodynastes maculatus: First seen at Laguna de Sonso but most numerous at Rio Claro with a few seen near Minca as well. Golden-crowned Flycatcher Myiodynastes chrysocephalus: Seen and heard at numerous sites throughout. Piratic Flycatcher Legatus leucophaius: First noted above La Mesa, and particularly vocal and easily seen in the Rio Claro area. Indeed Piratical and so-called because of its habit of appropriating the nests of Caciques for its own reproductive purposes. Fork-tailed Flycatcher Tyrannus savana: First noted at Laguna de Sonso where up to eight were seen. It was also seen a few other locations later on the tour like during the journey to Anori. Tropical Kingbird Tyrannus melancholicus: Common throughout. Grey Kingbird Tyrannus dominicensis: A total of three were seen around our breakfast place near Camarones on the Guajira Peninsula. 30 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

31 HIRUNDINIDAE White-winged Swallow Tachycineta albiventer: Two were seen in our hotel garden in Rio Claro and others at the screamer marsh. A species, which nests in holes in logs sticking out of the water. Grey-breasted Martin Progne chalybea: Several were seen in the Rio Claro area and others around Minca and at La Guajira. Brown-bellied Swallow Notiochelidon murina: Common around Bogotá. and we had several at Rio Blanco and at Nevado del Ruiz. The scientific name murina means mouse-coloured. Blue-and-white Swallow Notiochelidon cyanoleuca: Widespread in small numbers at moderate to high elevations. White-thighed Swallow Neochelidon tibialis: Fairly common at Las Tangaras. Southern Rough-winged Swallow Stelgidopteryx ruficollis: First noted near Laguna Pedro Palo and subsequently common. Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica: A few at Laguna de Sonso and hundreds seen on the coast near Barranquilla. CORVIDAE Black-collared Jay Cyanolyca armillata: Four seen above Jardin. Black-chested Jay Cyanocorax affinis: The commonest jay and seen from Jardin onwards in small numbers. Inca Jay Cyanocorax yncas: A truly handsome Jay, first seen at Otun Quimbaya, later in Jardin and finally at La Romera. CINCLIDAE White-capped Dipper Cinclus leucocephalus: Seen near Otun Quimbaya and Jardin. INCERTAE SEDIS Black-capped Donacobius Donacobius atricapillus: Seen very briefly at the screamer marsh on our way to Rio Claro. Following a publication in the eighties this species was moved from the Mimidae to the Troglodytidae, but unpublished molecular data suggests that it doesn t belong in either family. TROGLODYTIDAE Bicolored Wren Campylorhynchus griseus: We saw this magnificent Wren at Minca. A large and handsome wren and a cousin of Central America s Rufous-naped and Mexico s Giant Wrens. Band-backed Wren Campylorhynchus zonatus: Common around Rio Claro. Here of the race curvirostris. Rufous Wren Cinnycerthia unirufa: A family group was seen at Montana del Oso on our first day. Sharpe s Wren (Sepia-brown W) Cinnycerthia olivascens: Seen at Las Tangaras. This species replaces the previous at lower elevations. Grass Wren Cistothorus platensis: Heard at Montana del Oso and a few seen at high altitude along the Nevado del Ruiz road. Here the comparatively long-tailed aequatorialis race, one of the South American subspecies that seem to be quite different from the North American stellaris group. Apolinar s Marsh-Wren (Apolinar s W) Cistothorus apolinari: We had fantastic views of this very local endemic at Laguna Fúquene. Classified as Endangered by BirdLife International, the world population is estimated at 1,000 2,499 individuals and decreasing. It is thought to be declining rapidly because of habitat loss and degradation. All subpopulations are suspected to be extremely small, and some have been extirpated over the last few decades. This is a Colombian endemic. Sooty-headed Wren Thryothorus spadix: Excellent views of a pair at Anori. 31 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

32 Black-bellied Wren Thryothorus fasciatoventris: Seen near Anori and around Rio Claro. Whiskered Wren Thryothorus mystacalis: Another great songster, which all of us saw very well at Rio Blanco. Rufous-breasted Wren Thryothorus rutilus: A couple of pairs below Minca, here of the race laetus. Colombian Wren Thryothorus columbianus: Great views of several very confiding individuals above La Mesa. This isolated form is often lumped with Speckle-breasted Wren T. sclateri. Bay Wren Thryothorus nigricapillus: The barred race schottii was seen well at Las Tangaras and in the Rio Claro area. Rufous-and-white Wren Thryothorus rufalbus: Just one of this magical songster was seen below Minca, here of the rather bright race cumanensis. Buff-breasted Wren Thryothorus leucotis: A pair was seen in the dry scrub of the La Guajira, here the subspecies venezuelanus. Southern House Wren Troglodytes musculus: Common and widespread throughout. Mountain Wren Troglodytes solstitialis: The race solitarius was seen a few times in mixed species flocks at Rio Blanco. Grey-breasted Wood-Wren Henicorhina leucophrys: First heard at Montana del Oso and seen at Laguna Pedro Palo. Regularly heard at higher elevations with a number of good views. At upper elevations in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta we saw the anachoreta race which it is thought by some may deserve separate species status. Munchique Wood-Wren Henicorhina negreti: A single bird seen around our feet along the road to Urrao above Las Tangaras. Although vocally distinct any morphological differences must be considered at best marginal. Southern Nightingale-Wren Microcerculus marginatus: We heard this species at numerous sites and eventually saw it reasonably well near Rio Claro. Chestnut-breasted Wren Cyphorhinus thoracicus: We had superb views of a singing pair at El 18. Later on we heard them Otun Quimbaya but they did not show. MIMIDAE Tropical Mockingbird Mimus gilvus: An open country species which we first saw around Bogotá. A few others were seen elsewhere, and they were most conspicuous around La Guajira. TURDIDAE Andean Solitaire Myadestes ralloides: We heard this species at numerous locations but did manage to see one very well at Las Tangaras. A wonderful songster of the form plumbeiceps. A vocal repertoire quite distinct from bird of the humid east flank. Black Solitaire Entomodestes coracinus: Somewhat distant views of a single bird at Las Tangaras. This is a difficult bird to see over much of its range. Slaty-backed Nightingale-Thrush Catharus fuscater: One seen at the Antpitta feeding station and another near the lodge at El Dorado. At Rio Blanco a nightingale Thrush was seen that has only recently been described as a race of this species that is restricted to the Cordillera Central in Colombia. It is highly distinctive with dark irides, dull yellowish tarsi and culmen and blackish mandible. The bird was a uniform dull olive brown with mottled yellow olive belly and does resemble this species any more than the following species. In the absence of any vocal data it is hard to draw any conclusions as to its true taxonomic status. Orange-billed Nightingale Thrush Catharus aurantiirostris: One immature bird seen in the Hotel Grounds in Manizales. A rich reddish brown bird with orange tarsi and culmen with indistinct spots on the coverts. Grey-cheeked Thrush Catharus minimus(lo): A single one was seen along the ridge trail at Anori. Swainson s Thrush Catharus ustulatus: Several seen at Laguna Pedro Palo after which we saw a good many. Yellow-legged Thrush Platycichla flaviceps: Commonly seen in the coffee plantations above Minca. 32 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

33 Great Thrush Turdus fuscater: Very common around Bogota and elsewhere in the high Andes. Birds in the Eastern Andes around Bogotá are of the form quindio, while cacozelus occurs in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Glossy Black-Thrush Turdus serranus: A few seen and heard at Rio Blanco. Black-hooded Thrush Turdus olivater: Several seen in the coffee plantations above Minca. Pale-breasted Thrush Turdus leucomelas: Fairly common throughout. Black-billed Thrush Turdus ignobilis: Common and conspicuous above La Mesa where found at fruiting trees with the above species. SYLVIIDAE Long-billed Gnatwren Ramphocaenus melanurus: A pair at El18 was very high for this species and another pair below Minca in more typical habitat. Tropical Gnatcatcher Polioptila plumbea: Seen commonly at La Guajira. VIREONIDAE Rufous-browed Peppershrike Cyclarhis gujanensis: Heard and seen at scattered localities throughout. One seen in low scrub on the Guajira Peninsula. Black-billed Peppershrike Cyclarhis nigrirostris: The Andean counterpart of the previous species, which we had excellent views at El 18 and subsequently at other locations. Choco Vireo Vireo masteri: A single bird was seen and heard delivering its distinctive song at the Las Tanagras reserve. Red-eyed Vireo Vireo olivaceus: Fairly common during the second half of the tour in the north. Brown-capped Vireo Vireo leucophrys: Commonly seen at Pedro Palo and thereafter at numerous localities. An interesting tyrannid like call. Rufous-naped Greenlet Hylophilus semibrunneus: First seen at Pedro Palo, two more at El 18 and others at Anori. Colombia is clearly the best country in which to see this species. Scrub Greenlet Hylophilus flavipes: Common on the Guajira Peninsula. ICTERIDAE Shiny Cowbird Molothrus bonariensis: Seen at a number of locations. This species is a brood parasite whose numbers must have undoubtedly gone up with the increase in deforested country. Named after Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina. Giant Cowbird Scaphidura oryzivora: seen in small numbers throughout. Like other cowbirds, it is a brood parasite, laying its eggs in the nests of oropendolas and caciques. Crested Oropendola Psarocolius decumanus: This species was easy to see at middle elevations in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and at Anori. Russet-backed Oropendola Psarocolius angustifrons: We saw at least a dozen around Rio Blanco, Jardin and Anori. Yellow-rumped Cacique Cacicus cela: We saw a few in the Magdalena valley and around Rio Claro. Carib Grackle Quiscalus lugubris: Fairly common along the coastline of the Guajira Peninsula where they seem to have recently colonized. Great-tailed Grackle Quiscalus mexicanus: Abundant along the Caribbean coast. This species has not begun to expand inland as it has in North and Central America. Red-bellied Grackle Hypopyrrhus pyrohypogaster: First we had a flock of eleven of these rare and beautiful grackles at Las Tangaras. Later we saw several at Anori and a few at La Romera. Classified as Endangered by BirdLife International, the world population is estimated at 1,000 2,499 individuals and is decreasing. Although recent surveys have shown this species to occur at more sites than previously known, its remaining habitat is very limited, severely fragmented and declining, probably at an increasing rate. Its population is very small, and the component subpopulations extremely small and declining. This is endemic to Colombia. 33 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

34 Yellow-hooded Blackbird Agelaius icterocephalus: A few seen in the marshes at Laguna de Fúquene. and large numbers at the screamer marsh. Orchard Oriole Icterus spurious: Several seen at Laguna de Sonso. Orange-crowned Oriole Icterus auricapillus: One seen at Rio Claro. Yellow Oriole Icterus nigrogularis: We had about 20 at Laguna de Sonso and later common in the dry woodlands of the Guajira Peninsula. Yellow-backed Oriole Icterus chrysater: A few seen. Oriole Blackbird Gymnomystax mexicanus: One at Laguna de Sonso probably of a population established from escaped birds. Red-breasted Blackbird Leistes militaris: A few seen at the Screamer marsh. Eastern Meadowlark Sturnella magna: Five were seen at La Siecha ponds near Bogotá. PARULIDAE Black-and-white Warbler Mniotilta varia: Seen in many mixed flocks at sites throughout. Tennessee Warbler Vermivora peregrina: The commonest wintering warbler. Tropical Parula Parula pitiayumi: A few seen and many heard throughout. Yellow Warbler Dendroica aestiva: Seen in ones and twos at a few locations. Cerulean Warbler Dendroica cerulea: A couple seen at Laguna Pedro Palo. It is classified as Vulnerable by BirdLife International, the world population is estimated at 560,000 mature individuals and is decreasing. Its population is estimated to have undergone a rapid decline owing to continuing habitat loss and fragmentation on its breeding and wintering grounds. Blackburnian Warbler Dendroica fusca: A good number of superb males seen at many sites throughout the tour. The most numerous wintering warbler at higher elevations, with up to 20 noted in a day at Pedro Palo and Otun Quimbaya. Bay-breasted Warbler Dendroica castanea: Two birds seen at Rio Claro. American Redstart Setophaga ruticilla: We found several pairs at sites throughout from Otun Quimbata to Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Northern Waterthrush Seiurus noveboracensis: One seen at Laguna de Sonso and others at Rio Claro and in the mangroves of Isla Salamanca National Park. Prothonotary Warbler Protonotaria citrea: A few seen in the mangroves on Isla Salamanca National Park. Canada Warbler Wilsonia canadensis: A fairly common winter resident of montane forests. Slate-throated Redstart (S-t Whitestart) Myioborus miniatus: A common, widespread and delightful resident of the montane forests. Golden-fronted Redstart (G-f Whitestart) Myioborus ornatus: A most attractive cloudforest denizen and regularly seen in mixed flocks. We saw the white-faced form near Bogota and yellow-faced nominate race in the Central and Western Andes. Yellow-crowned Redstart (Y-c Whitestart) Myioborus flavivertex: Very common along the San Lorenzo ridge and certainly one of the most conspicuous Santa Marta endemics. Somewhat atypical for a Myioborus whitestart in that it is slow and deliberate in its movements, and almost Basileuterus like in appearance. An endemic to Colombia. Citrine Warbler Basileuterus luteoviridis: We saw numerous pairs of this species in mixed flocks. The form in Colombia is the highly distinctive dull olive green, white-browed race richardsoni. This form has been considered a separate species in the past and may well warrant specific recognition. Black-crested Warbler Basileuterus nigrocristatus: Common at Montana del Oso above Bogotá. Russet-crowned Warbler Basileuterus coronatus: An attractive warbler of mid-elevation forests that has a sweet song and is easier to hear than see! We saw them a few times at Rio Blanco and Jardin. White-lored Warbler Basileuterus conspicillatus: Common at El Dorado and lower down in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta allowing us several great views. It is classified as Near Threatened 34 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

35 by BirdLife International. It inhabits humid montane forest, forest borders and welldeveloped second growth and shade-coffee plantations at 450-2,200m, where it forages at low to mid-levels, principally in the undergrowth and understorey. It appears tolerant of a degree of habitat degradation. All remaining forest in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta is seriously threatened by agricultural expansion, logging and burning. Only 15% of the sierra's vegetation is unaltered, with the southeast slope extensively deforested, and the west slope, between 800 and 1,600m, largely cleared for coffee and illegal marijuana plantations. This is an endemic bird to Colombia. Chestnut-capped Warbler Basileuterus delattrei: A pair at La Mesa and common near Minca on the lower slopes of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. This form is often lumped in Rufouscapped Warbler B. rufifrons. Three-striped Warbler Basileuterus tristriatus: First noted at El 18 and it was fairly common at most mid-altitude sites. Santa Marta Warbler Basileuterus basilicus: Another warbler endemic to the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. It can be elusive but we found several pairs in mixed flocks along the San Lorenzo ridge. A large, slow and aberrant species, that perhaps does not belong in Basileuterus it was formerly placed in Hemispingus! This species is listed as Vulnerable by Birdlife International because its range is estimated to be small, fragmented and declining owing to ongoing deforestation of its montane forest habitat. Despite possibly tolerating some habitat degradation, it is threatened by extensive deforestation, and has lost 21% of its habitat. It is likely to have undergone a rapid and continuing decline. This is an endemic bird to Colombia. Buff-rumped Warbler Basileuterus fulvicauda: The first was seen in the coffee country above La Mesa but later we enjoyed great views at Rio Claro. THRAUPIDAE Bananaquit Coereba flaveola: As usual, common and widespread. Green Honeycreeper Cyanerpes spiza: A few seen near Rio Claro. Turquoise Dacnis (T Dacnis-Tanager) Dacnis hartlaubi: Probably two males seen at Pedro Palo. It is classified as Vulnerable. This species has a highly disjunct and poorly understood range. It is very close to qualifying as Endangered, because the known range is very small and presumably declining (with possibly some local extirpations) in response to continuing habitat loss. However, it has been recorded at more than five locations and exhibits some habitat tolerance. This is endemic to Colombia. Blue Dacnis Dacnis cayana: A male of the western baudoana race was seen at Pena Lisa and Rio Claro. Males of the western race are a much darker shade of blue compared to the paler turquoise blue of the eastern race. Bicolored Conebill Conirostrum bicolor: Common and easy to see in Isla Salamanca National Park where more than twenty were seen. Blue-backed Conebill Conirostrum sitticolor: A bright and attractive inhabitant of the cloudforest. We saw one at Nevado del Ruiz and others at Jardin. Rufous-browed Conebill Conirostrum rufum: We saw quite a number at Montana del Oso above Bogotá. This species is confined to the Eastern Andes and the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. This is a near endemic to Colombia. Capped Conebill Conirostrum albifrons: Fairly common at Rio Blanco, where the white-capped race centralandium is found. Masked Flower-piercer Diglossopis cyanea: Fairly common at most montane sites. Flower-piercers are nectar thieves, as their name suggests piercing the flowers at their base without performing any pollination duties. Indigo Flower-piercer Diglossa indigotica: We saw a surprising number at Las Tangaras. A rather smart and bright Chocó endemic. It is somewhat difficult in Ecuador making Colombia the best bet for it. 35 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

36 Glossy Flower-piercer Diglossa lafresnayii: Seen along the Nevado del Ruiz road. Black Flower-piercer Diglossa humeralis: We saw two distinct races: Bogotá we found the nominate (with a small blue grey shoulder patch) and in the Central Andes we saw the uniform black aterrima along the Nevado del Ruiz road. White-sided Flower-piercer Diglossa albilatera: Perhaps the most common and widespread of the flower-piercers. This and the following species are the only two flower-piercers in Colombia exhibiting sexual dimorphism. Rusty Flower-piercer Diglossa sittoides: We saw a pair with young above Minca. Swallow-Tanager Tersina viridis: We saw several pairs above Minca. Blue-naped Chlorophonia Chlorophonia cyanea: The most widespread and common of the Chlorophonias. Yellow-collared Chlorophonia Chlorophonia flavirostris: We managed to track down a calling Female at Las Tangaras wand had spectacular views. Chestnut-breasted Chlorophonia Chlorophonia pyrrhophrys: We saw several pairs of this very pretty and generally uncommon species. Orange-bellied Euphonia Euphonia xanthogaster: The commonest mid-elevation euphonia and one we saw throughout the tour. Like most races, the birds we saw (oressinoma), are actually yellow-bellied. Trinidad Euphonia Euphonia trinitatis: The common Euphonia on the Guajira Peninsula. Thick-billed Euphonia Euphonia laniirostris: The commonest euphonia of open country and suburban areas. Indeed a numbers of pairs were found nesting in hanging baskets at gas stations, hotels and restaurants, corresponding closely to where we happened to be when not up some mountain trail.. Fulvous-vented Euphonia Euphonia fulvicrissa: A pair was seen at Rio Claro. Fawn-breasted Tanager Pipraeidea melanonota: A few seen day two. Glistening-green Tanager Chlorochrysa phoenicotis: A common bird at Las Tangaras. This is a declining species in Ecuador for which some effort is required to see it. Multicoloured Tanager Chlorochrysa nitidissima: A spectacular bird. Our first sighting was at Otun Quimbaya of a lovely female but we had to wait until we got to Anori to connect with a male that performed extremely well. It is classified as Vulnerable by Birdlife International due to its small range, known from a small number of locations. Its known population is suspected to be small, fragmented into very small subpopulations, and declining as a result of continuing habitat loss. It is endemic to Colombia. Speckled Tanager Tangara guttata (NL): One seen at Anori. Rufous-throated Tanager Tangara rufigula: Common at Las Tangaras. A restricted range species. Golden Tanager Tangara arthus: A common species of the humid cloud forest. Silver-throated Tanager Tangara icterocephala: We saw a number at Las Tangaras where they were common below the lodge. Saffron-crowned Tanager Tangara xanthocephala: A smart Tanager seen at several sites. Flame-faced Tanager Tangara parzudakii: One of the most attractive in the genus. We saw several pairs at Pedro Palo. Metallic-green Tanager Tangara labradorides: Several sightings at El 18, Otun Quimbaya and Jardin. Blue-necked Tanager Tangara cyanicollis: Seen at many lowland locations throughout the trip. Golden-hooded Tanager Tangara larvata: Seen at many sites throughout the trip. Golden-naped Tanager Tangara ruficervix: Four were seen at El 18, here of the leucotis race. Plain-coloured Tanager Tangara inornata: We found this species below Anori and at Rio Claro. Probably the dullest in the genus. Bay-headed Tanager Tangara gyrola: Common throughout. We saw two distinct races; the turquoise bellied deleticia in the Andes, and toddi in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, which is all grass-green except for the bay head. The name gyrola is derived from the Latin gyros, or ring, and refers to the golden nuchal collar present in most races of this species. 36 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

37 Scrub Tanager Tangara vitriolina: Surprisingly common throughout. Another species, which has a tendency to occupy areas of second growth. It is one of the more numerous and widespread tanagers in Colombia s valleys and on the adjacent slopes, but outside the country it is a localized speciality in northern Ecuador. Beryl-spangled Tanager Tangara nigroviridis: Another common, widespread and attractive denizen of the montane forests. Blue-and-black Tanager Tangara vassorii: First seen at Rio Blanco where we saw at least four. It was also common above Jardin. Black-capped Tanager Tangara heinei: We saw a number of pairs of this striking sexually dimorphic Tangara. Black-headed Tanager Tangara cyanoptera: A few seen above Minca. Purplish-mantled Tanager Iridosornis porphyrocephala: A stunning Tanager which we first saw at El18 and thereafter at Las Tangaras. Classified as Near Threatened by BirdLife International, it occurs in the West Andes of Colombia (principally on the Pacific slope north to south Chocó, and at the north end of the Central Andes in Antioquia) and northwest Ecuador (where it is definitely known only from Carchi and Imbabura, with an uncertain record from Loja in the south). It inhabits the lower growth of humid mossy forest and forest borders, principally at 1,500-2,200m, but has been recorded to 750m in Cauca, and 2,700m in Antioquia. It is threatened by rapid and ongoing deforestation, largely the result of intensive logging, human settlement, cattle-grazing and mining, with severe destruction in the core of its elevational range. Scarlet-bellied Mountain-Tanager Anisognathus igniventris: We saw two races: lunulatus in the Eastern Andes at Cerro La Guadalupe above Bogotá, and erythrotus in the Central Andes along the Nevado del Ruiz road. Santa Marta Mountain-Tanager (Black-cheeked M-T) Anisognathus melanogenys: Rather numerous endemic on the San Lorenzo ridge in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. This is an endemic to Colombia. Lacrimose Mountain-Tanager Anisognathus lacrymosus: We saw this species on many occasions from Rio Blanco to Nevado del Ruiz road and Jardin. Blue-winged Mountain-Tanager Anisognathus somptuosus: A fairly common species. Black-chinned Mountain-Tanager Anisognathus notabilis: We saw several pairs at Las Tangaras where somewhat common. Hooded Mountain-Tanager Buthraupis montana (LO): A pair was seen but a leader only bird at Nevado del Ruiz. Black-and-gold Tanager Bangsia melanochlamys: Very common at Las Tangaras where over 20 were seen on one day. We also saw it at Anori. It is classified as Vulnerable by BirdLife International. Its small population is assumed to be declining owing to the reductions in habitat. It basically occurs in two disjunct areas of western Colombia. The first is on the north and west slopes of the Central Andes in Antioquia, where it had not been recorded since 1948, until rediscovered in 1999 to the west of the Nechí River. The second area is on the Pacific slopes of the West Andes in the Chocó. This is endemic to Colombia. Gold-ringed Tanager Bangsia aureocincta: We saw three birds at Las Tangaras where it is not uncommon but certainly more difficult to find than the previous species. It classified as Endangered by BirdLife International. The species has a very small range (670 km²), and is currently known from just a few localities but they all lie within the Tatamá National Park hence the local Colombian name of Tatamá Tanager. Continuing habitat loss and consequent range and population declines are projected for the main subpopulation, because of proposed road construction. In other areas, habitat loss is likely to be ongoing. This is endemic to Colombia. Buff-breasted Mountain-Tanager Dubusia taeniata (H): Heard along the road above Jardin and the San Lorenzo Ridge. 37 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

38 Blue-grey Tanager Thraupis episcopus: Numerous and widespread. The scientific name is derived from the episcopal blue plumage. Palm Tanager Thraupis palmarum: Common and widespread. Blue-capped Tanager Thraupis cyanocephala: Several encounters in the Western Andes where the subspecies is annectens. Crimson-backed Tanager Ramphocelus dimidiatus: A widespread tanager of the lowlands in open and secondary habitats. Particularly common for the second half of the tour. Flame-rumped Tanager Ramphocelus flammigerus: First seen en route to the Oelman feeders, we also saw several more around El 18, below El Cairo, at Otun Quimbaya and Jardin. This is a Cauca Valley endemic though it is often lumped together with the following species. Lemon-rumped Tanager (Yellow-rumped T) Ramphocelus icteronotus: They were fairly common on road below Las Tangaras. Highland Hepatic-Tanager Piranga lutea: The first two were seen at Otun Quimbaya and more individuals were located at Rio Blanco and Anori. Summer Tanager Piranga rubra: Seen commonly throughout the tour. Scarlet Tanager Piranga olivacea: We saw a male at Rio Claro in a fruiting tree. This northern migrant is rather uncommon in Colombia. Red-hooded Tanager Piranga rubriceps: Three seen at Rio Blanco. Generally uncommon and somewhat nomadic across quite a large Andean range. White-winged Tanager Piranga leucoptera: Two males of these colourful montane tanagers were seen in a big mixed species flock at Anori. Ochre-breasted Tanager Chlorothraupis stolzmanni (H): Quite a number of this very vocal species heard near Las Tangaras. Sooty Ant-Tanager Habia gutturalis: A single bird seen and heard very well at Gruta del Condor. A lovely endemic and one we did not expect to see. Crested Ant-Tanager Habia cristata: We heard several along forest trails at Las Tangaras but saw them exceptionally well near the lodge where a pair were very actively feeding young. This is endemic to Colombia. White-lined Tanager Tachyphonus rufus: Several pairs seen near Minca in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. White-shouldered Tanager Tachyphonus luctuosus: Several pairs seen below Las Tangaras. Tawny-crested Tanager Tachyphonus delatrii: Common near Las Tangaras and a few seen near Ro Claro. Rosy Thrush-Tanager Rhodinocichla rosea: A pair seen below Minca. Guira Tanager Hemithraupis guira: A couple of females seen near Rio Claro. White-capped Tanager Sericossypha albocristata: A family group of five performed superbly over our heads. One of the mega trip highlights. Common Bush-Tanager Chlorospingus ophthalmicus: Not very common but we did see a few at Las Tangaras. Yellow-throated Bush-Tanager Chlorospingus flavigularis: At few seen at Las Tangaras. Ash-throated Bush-Tanager Chlorospingus canigularis: Not uncommon at Otun Quimbaya. Dusky-bellied Bush-Tanager Chlorospingus semifuscus: common at Las Tangaras. Grey-hooded Bush-Tanager Cnemoscopus rubrirostris: Common at Jardin and Rio Blanco. Oddly this bush-tanager has a habit of tail-pumping. Black-capped Hemispingus atropileus: This well-marked species was first seen at Rio Blanco Reserve and subsequently at Jardin. Superciliaried Hemispingus Hemispingus superciliaris: A few seen at sites throughout. Those we saw at Cerro La Guadalupe above Bogotá were the nominate race and later we had some good views of the race nigrifrons in the Central Andes (blackish forecrown). Oleaginous Hemispingus Hemispingus frontalis: Several seen at El 18. Great name, it is the world s only bird with this lovely epithet. Black-eared Hemispingus Hemispingus melanotis: Only one was seen at Rio Blanco. 38 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

39 Black-headed Hemispingus Hemispingus verticalis: A pair seen on Cerro La Guadalupe. Grass Green Tanager Chlorornis riefferii: A pair seen at Rio Blanco and another at Jardin. A spectacular looking species. Black-faced Tanager Schistochlamys melanopis: We had good views of single individual on the feeders at Anori. Plush-capped Finch (Plushcap) Catamblyrhynchus diadema: We saw a number of birds at the montana del Oso private reserve. A bamboo specialist, which we always saw in mixed species flocks. CARDINALIDAE Blue-black Grosbeak Cyanocompsa cyanoides (H): Several heard at Rio Claro. The vocalisations of the cis-andean forms differ so much from the trans-andean forms that there is clearly significant difference between these populations. Buff-throated Saltator Saltator maximus: Seen most days after the 17 th March at Anori. Note that placement of Saltator is still controversial, with some arguing for their continued placement within the Cardinalidae but with most evidence leaning towards subfamily rank within the thraupid tanagers. Greyish Saltator Saltator coerulescens: Common in the dry scrub at La Guajira and Isla Salamanca National Park. Streaked Saltator Saltator striatipectus: Seen at Pedro Palo and in the coffee country above La Mesa and a few more in the second half of the tour. Vermilion Cardinal Cardinalis phoeniceus: A pair seen on the Guajira Peninsula. Genetic data indicate that the Pyrrhuloxia C. sinuatus is the sister species to Vermillion Cardinal. Rose-breasted Grosbeak Pheucticus ludovicianus: Seen at many sites throughout. The species name refers to the Louisiana Territory or Colony, the Mississippi Basin claimed by France and named after King Louis XIV ( Ludovicius ); covering a much larger area than the present state of Louisiana, it was a Spanish possession from 1763, before being repossessed by the French and sold by Napoleon to the USA in EMBERIZIDAE Pileated Finch (Grey Pileated-F) Coryphospingus pileatus: Seen at several sites in the dry scrub on the Guajira Peninsula. One of the many genera formerly placed in the Emberizidae based on bill shape but which genetic data indicate belongs with the tanagers in the Thraupidae. Olive Finch Lysurus castaneiceps (H): A pair heard at Rio Blanco along a narrow stream. Yellow-faced Grassquit Tiaris olivacea: A very common bird of secondary habitats throughout from Pedro Palo onwards. Genetic data indicate that Tiaris belongs with the thraupid tanagers. Many years ago several genera of birds were erroneously dumped into the Emberizidae based on bill shape and only now are their true affinities being brought to light. Sooty Grassquit Tiaris fuliginosus: A few seen below Minca. An uncommon and infrequently seen species. Plain-coloured Seedeater Catamenia inornata: Seen along the Nevado del Ruiz road. Thick-billed Seed-Finch Oryzoborus funereus: Seen at Las Tangaras and elsewhere in secondary habitats in the sub-tropics. This species is sometimes lumped with Chestnut-bellied Seed- Finch using the O. angolensis for the enlarged species. The males of the western birds are all black while the eastern birds have a chestnut belly. Phylogenetic trees built using genetic data show both Oryzoborus and Sporophila clearly nestled within the thraupid tanagers! Grey Seedeater Sporophila intermedia: Seen at a couple of sites. Variable Seedeater Sporophila corvina : A male was seen at Las Tangaras. Yellow-bellied Seedeater Sporophila nigricollis: Fairly common throughout.. Ruddy-breasted Seedeater Sporophila minuta: Small numbers seen in open sites throughout. 39 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

40 Blue-black Grassquit Volatinia jacarina: Not particularly common with only a small number noted at widely scattered sites. Saffron Finch Sicalis flaveola: A synanthropic species found throughout. Genetic data indicate Sicalis is also a thraupid tanager. Plumbeous Sierra-Finch Phrygilus unicolor: Fairly common along the Nevado del Ruiz road. The genus Phrygilus is now thought to be a tanager as well. Yellow-throated Brush-Finch Atlapetes gutturalis: A relatively widespread bird that first showed up in the grounds of our hotel in Manizales. Later we pairs at Las Tangaras and Jardin. The only genera in South America for which genetic data indicate that they are true Emberizidae are: Zonotrichia, Ammodramus, Aimophila, Arremon, and Atlapetes. Pale-naped Brush-Finch Atlapetes pallidinucha: We saw this handsome species first at Montana del Oso above Bogotá where the nominate subspecies occurs and several of the papallactae subspecies were then seen along the Nevado del Ruiz road. Santa Marta Brush-Finch Atlapetes melanocephalus: This species was very common at El Dorado. This is an endemic to Colombia. Tricoloured Brush-Finch Atlapetes tricolor: Several of this pacific slope species were seen at Las Tangaras. This form is considered a separate species: the Choco Brush-finch. Moustached Brush-Finch Atlapetes albofrenatus: A total of six birds were seen very well at Laguna Pedro Palo, where the nominate race occurs. Slaty Brush-Finch Atlapetes schistaceus: We found several groups at Montana del Oso above Bogotá and then we had several at Rio Blanco, along the lower Nevado del Ruiz road and at Jardin. Chestnut-capped Brush-Finch Atlapetes brunneinucha: seen at Jardin. This and the following species have recently been moved to the genus Arremon. Grey-browed Brush-Finch Atlapetes torquatus: We has superb views of the assimilis form at the Rio Blanco Reserve where they came to feed on worms. This is one of the species spit from the Stripe-headed Brush Finch. Sierra Nevada Brush-Finch Atlapetes basilicus: A total of four were seen in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. This is a Colombian endemic. This follows from a recent publication by Colombian ornithologists Carlos Daniel Cadena and Andres Cuervo who recommended that eight species level taxa be recognized within the Stripe-headed Brush-Finch A. torquatus: (1) Grey-striped Brush Finch A. costaricensis of Costa Rica and western Panama, (2) Black-headed Brush-Finch A. atricapillus from central and eastern Panama to the Colombian Andes, (3) Sierra Nevada Brush finch A. Basilicas from the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, (4)Perija Brush Finch A. perijanus from the Serrania del Perija of NE Colombia and NW Venezuela, (5)Grey-browed Brush Finch A. assimilis from the Andes of Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador and most of Peru, (6)White-browed Brush Finch A. torquatus from the Andes of extreme southern Peru, Bolivia and Argentina, (7)Caracas Brush finch A. phacopleurus from the Cordillera de la Costa of northern Venezuela, and (8) Paria Brush Finch A. phygas from the Cordillera de la Costa Oriental of northeast Venezuela. Golden-winged Sparrow Arremon schlegeli: We saw three birds below Minca where it is usually more obliging. This really attractive species is probably most easily seen in Colombia. Hermann Schlegel ( ) was a German ornithologist whose primary interest was Asia. Rufous-collared Sparrow Zonotrichia capensis: Numerous and widespread at higher elevations FRINGILLIDAE Andean Siskin Carduelis spinescens: Seen at several sites starting with Laguna Pedro Palo. Hooded Siskin Carduelis magellanica: Seen at a couple of localities but certainly less common that the foregoing species. 40 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

41 Lesser Goldfinch (Dark-backed G) Carduelis psaltria: This one was noted in small numbers at a few sites. MAMMALS Crab-eating Fox Cerdocyon thous (LO): One seen at El Dorado. Red-tailed Squirrel (Tropical Red S) Sciurus granatensis: This species was common at many sites throughout the tour. Silvery-brown Bare-face Tamarin Saguinus leucopus: We had pretty good views of five near Rio Claro. This has been split from the Cotton-top Tamarin which is now comprised of three allospecies. Brown-headed Spider Monkey Ateles fusciceps (H): A troop heard at Las Tangaras. Venezuelan Red Howler Monkey Alouatta seniculus: A small group of these impressive beasts were seen (and heard!) at Otun Quimbaya and at Rio Claro. Cottontail Rabbit Sylvilagus : A single animal seen near Camarones on the Guajira Peninsula. Top ten birds. This was a tough choice for all and there was a long list of species chosen by the group. Interestingly few chose antpittas attracted to the feeding stations. 1 Yellow-headed Manakin 2 White-capped Tanager 3 Sooty Ant-Tanager 4 Purplish-mantled Tanager 5 Andean cock-of-the-rock 6 Chestnut-crowned Antpitta 7 Saffron-headed Parrot 8 White-mantled Barbet 9 Multicoloured Tanager 10 White-tailed Starfrontlet Photographs by Gareth Rees (GR), Eustace Barnes (EB), Carl Downing (CD). 41 Birdquest: Colombia 2012

42 Bearded Helmetcrest (GR) Cauca Guan (GR). Brown-banded Antpitta (GR) Green and Black Friuteater (GR)

43 Chestnut-naped Antpitta (GR). Chestnut-crowned Antpitta (GR) Many-striped Canastero (GR) Slaty-backed Nightingale Thrush (ssp nov) (GR)

44 Black and gold Tanager (GR) Cock-of-the-rock (GR) Always a tour favourite. Crowned Chat tyrant (GR) Toucan Barbet (GR)

45 Bicoloured Antbird (GR).. Moustached Puffbird (GR). Ochre-breasted Antpitta (GR). Long-billed Starthroat (GR).

46 The Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta viewed from thesan Lorenzo ridge (EB). Cinnamon Flycatcher (GR). White-tailed Starfrontlet (EB).

47 Santa Marta Bush Tyrant (GR) above. Russet-throated Puffbird (GR). Yellow-crowned Whitestart (GR)

48 Chestnut Piculet (GR). White-whiskered Spinetail (GR). Masked Saltator (CD).

49 Yellow-headed Manakin (CD).