SIERRA LEONE TOUR REPORT

Transcription

1 SIERRA LEONE 5 20 FEBRUARY 2010 TOUR REPORT LEADER: NIK BORROW Even though new roads had been built and accommodation standards had improved since our last visit, our second tour to Sierra Leone was still pretty tough going at times but certainly pulled a few goodies out of the bag! We built upon the successes from our previous tour and notched up a higher and very respectable total of 328 species of which all but 18 were seen. The notable major highlights had to be the wonderful views of the amazing Yellow-headed Picathartes preening and posing at their nest site before going to roost. We also saw the restricted range Crimson Seedcracker, Turati s Boubou and no less than five stunning Gola Malimbes for everyone! Singing Brown Nightjars were discovered, sublime Egyptian Plovers enjoyed, colourful Buff-throated Sunbirds enthralled and secretive Capuchin Babblers were tracked down. Mammals were sparse but we had great looks at the beautiful Diana Monkey and what appears to be a rare Lesser Anomalure. Other specialties included Congo Serpent Eagle, Beaudouin s Snake Eagle, Red-chested Goshawk, Forbes s Plover, Great Snipe, Black-throated Coucal, Black-shouldered and Standard-winged Nightjars, White-bellied Kingfisher, Blue-bellied Roller, Yellow-casqued Hornbill, Hairy-breasted Barbet, Spotted Honeyguide, Little Green and Melancholy Woodpeckers, Fanti Saw-wing, Preuss s Cliff Swallow, Pied-winged Swallow, Green-tailed and Grey-headed Bristlebills, Western Bearded Greenbul, Yellow-bearded Greenbul, Western Forest Robin, Lowland Akalat, White-tailed Alethe, Finsch s Flycatcher Thrush, Sharpe s Apalis, Kemp s Longbill, Ussher s Flycatcher, Red-cheeked Wattle-eye, Puvel s Illadopsis, Brown Sunbird, Red-billed Helmet-shrike, Copper-tailed Glossy and Emerald Starlings, Maxwell s Black Weaver, Red-vented Malimbe, Dybowski s Twinspot and Cameroon Indigobird. We arrived at Lungi airport around and were met by a blast of warm humid air as we crossed the tarmac and immediately the sweat began to gush from every pore. The passport and customs controls were relatively quick and easy but then we had to get to the capital, Freetown that is awkwardly situated on a peninsula across the bay from the airport with no easy road access so that most arriving visitors use the ferry or helicopter services. We opted for the latter and we were pleased to note that since the crash of the last helicopter that looked more like a Vietnam veteran from Apocalypse, a slightly newer and more comfortable but no less noisy model had replaced it. The transfer was relatively speedy enough and we found ourselves on the heliport in the Aberdeen area of Freetown that is placed conveniently close to the hotels. Arriving in the middle of the night was not the happiest option but we had no alternative so we grabbed as much sleep as we could and waited for the dawn. 1 Birdquest: Sierra Leone 2010

2 Frustratingly the vehicle was late arriving the following morning and we were kept waiting in the dark until it arrived however this was the only time this happened and the entire logistics team that looked after us during our stay are to be congratulated on what was overall a pretty smoothly operated tour. The roads definitely weren t always quite so even and we bumped our way along the coast on the first of many appalling roads to the Guma Dam area of the Peninsula Mountains Forest Reserve. Amazingly the forest here is in pretty good shape and as we gazed out over the dam and ate our picnic breakfast the first birds appeared. The waters were pretty empty apart from the odd Long-tailed Cormorant. A Red-chested Goshawk displayed high overhead, a European Honey Buzzard flew past and African Harrier Hawk and Palm-nut Vultures also proved to be easy to see. A Cassin s Hawk Eagle and a Lanner Falcon were a little more unexpected and a Grey-headed Kingfisher also looked a little out of place in the forest. African Green Pigeons and Red-eyed Doves sat up and Tambourine Doves hurtled by whilst Square-tailed and Fanti Saw-wings, Lesser Striped Swallows, Common and Little Swifts and Sabine s Spinetails fluttered overhead. African Pied Hornbills flapped lazily over the tall trees and the wailing cries and swish and whirr from the wings of the impressive Yellow-casqued Hornbills were a constant sound in the forest as were the guttural cries of Yellow-billed Turacos that echoed through the hillsides although the birds proved a lot tougher to see. Speckled, Yellowthroated, Yellow-rumped and Red-rumped Tinkerbirds pooped and trilled everywhere and were again often frustratingly invisible to the eye. This was set to become a recurring theme throughout the tour. Birds were simply not easy to see either because of the dense nature of the forest or because they were shy or unresponsive. Sunbirds were most in evidence and we found Green, here of the yellow-chinned variety, Little Green, Western Olive, Collared, Olive-bellied, Variable, Johanna s and even a male Superb Sunbird. Greenbuls were to become a feature of the trip and at Guma Valley we began chipping away at them and during the morning managed to notch up Little, Little Grey, Slender-billed, Yellow-whiskered, Honeyguide, Icterine and Red-tailed Greenbuls as well as Simple Leaflove, Grey-headed Bristlebill and the impressive Western Nicator. The Upper Guinea endemic Ussher s Flycatcher perched high up in the tall trees, a rather bedraggled Green Crombec allowed us some great views as it sat and preened. Checking out furtive bird parties we found Grey Longbill, Green Hylia, Fraser s Forest Flycatcher, Blue-headed Crested Flycatcher, Red-bellied Paradise Flycatcher, Chestnut Wattle-eye, Sabine s Puffback, Western Black-headed Oriole, Shining Drongo and we glimpsed White-tailed Ant Thrush. Leaving the forest we embarked on a short river trip in some wobbly pirogues. As it was the heat of the day the excursion was pretty quiet birdwise but we added a Shining-blue Kingfisher and Bluecheeked Bee-eaters skimmed low over the mangroves as Western Reef Egret and a Western Osprey flew ahead of the boats. At the river mouth large numbers of Royal and two Caspian Terns had gathered on the beach where we enjoyed a pleasant fish lunch. Brown Sunbird was found in the surrounding waterside vegetation before we headed back into the forest as we had an afternoon appointment with a very special bird. We were taken to a large rock where there were several nests of the bizarre Yellow-headed Picathartes. We settled down to wait for the rockfowl but when a bird did finally appear it was secretive and only appeared for a split second to two of us. Needless to say the joys of the day were dashed to the ground and smashed to smithereens. What had been a great first day was now a miserable failure and there was much wailing and gnashing of teeth as quantities of Star beer were swallowed to drown innumerable sorrows. Day two found us on the golf course before the clubs were swinging and the balls were bouncing and all was quiet. The bushy margins were surprisingly birdy but there was no sign of our target species, the restricted range Turati s Boubou. Instead we contented ourselves with excellent views of the fantastic Oriole Warbler or Moho a most striking and very special West African oddity. We were curious to see what else was on offer and had some great looks at Senegal Thick-knee, Common Wattle-eye, Northern Puffback and a striking male Black-and-white Flycatcher. Pied-winged Swallows skimmed low over the fairways and some Red-rumped Swallows were also seen. A Lizard Buzzard was perched in characteristically hunched pose, a Shikra was found and scavenging Yellow- 2 Birdquest: Sierra Leone 2010

3 billed Kites and Hooded Vultures were also noted. Colourful birds such as Snowy-crowned Robin Chat, Splendid Sunbird and Sulphur-breasted Bush-shrike were much enjoyed. Both Grey-crowned and Chestnut-breasted Negrofinches were seen well as numbers of Black-necked Weavers foraged through the shrubbery. Village Weavers were very common and other familiar birds included Western Cattle Egret, Green-backed Heron, Western Grey Plantain-eater, Woodland Kingfisher, Grey Woodpecker, Yellow-throated Leaflove, African Thrush, Tawny-flanked Prinia, Grey-backed Camaroptera and Northern Grey-headed Sparrow. As the first golfers of the day were making their way onto the course so we left and continued to the forest at Tacugama. Of course by the time we arrived most of the bird activity had quietened down but nonetheless we added more birds. The prize of the bunch was an adult Lowland Akalat with a well-grown youngster. This is often a tricky bird to see well and we rarely encounter it on our tours so the prolonged looks that we all had of the immature bird were treasured. Some delightful Chestnutcapped Flycatchers were found and a Thick-billed Honeyguide sang its monotonous song from high in the canopy beneath soaring Brown Snake Eagle and Ayres s Hawk Eagle. Other species here included Ansorge s Greenbul, Wood Warbler and Bronze Mannikin. It was now time to board the bus and we set off for the town of Bo notching up Red-necked Buzzard, some superb Blue-bellied Rollers, African Wattled Lapwing, a Grasshopper Buzzard and an African Grey Hornbill en route. An impressive roadside bushfire had attracted thousands of Common Sand Martins and Barn Swallows. We only had a short night at Bo and were on the road again early in the morning well before first light heading towards the western edge of the Gola Forest. The drive through the darkness allowed us chances to see several Long-tailed and Standard-winged Nightjars and finally a super Blackshouldered Nightjar as the new day dawned. The Moa River isolates Tiwai Island situated at the western edge of Gola West Forest Reserve and it was here that we were to spend the next two nights. Tiwai in the Mende language means big island and at 12 square kilometres it is one of Sierra Leone s largest inland islands. We arrived at the river in the early morning and ate our breakfast taking in a few birds such as Tiny Sunbird and the colourful Red-vented Malimbe. Next we were ferried by a small boat that took us past our first Egyptian Plovers across to the island itself and we quickly found ourselves inside the forest at a pleasantly situated and sensibly set up, simple tented camp. However we didn t stay there long, as we were anxious to get inside the forest that is dissected by a grid of well-maintained trails that promised White-breasted Guineafowl or possibly even a Pygmy Hippopotamus but sadly never actually delivered. During our visit during the last tour the forest had been surprisingly birdy but this year we struggled to find bird parties and there were long periods of silence and no activity. We spent our time quietly walking the footways and slowly added new species to our lists including some more Upper Guinea endemics. Furtive White-tailed Alethes and pretty Western Forest Robins were persuaded to show themselves to us, a Finsch s Flycatcher Thrush sat upright on its perch flicking its tail from side to side, a Little Green Woodpecker clung to a tree directly above our heads and we also admired a party of colourful Red-billed Helmet-shrikes. Although they look identical to eastern birds the Yellow-spotted Barbets in the Upper Guinea have very different voices from their counterparts. The far-reaching melancholy whistles of Chocolate-backed Kingfishers reached our ears and we were treated to some great views of this forest kingfisher. Piping Hornbills laughed at us from the thick canopy and we also had excellent looks at the extraordinary White-crested Hornbill interrupted from following a group of monkeys. Some Red-billed Dwarf Hornbills were coaxed into view over our heads in the same trees as a Spotted Honeyguide, skulking Pale-breasted, Brown and Blackcap Illadopsises surrendered themselves, strikingly coloured Blue-billed and Red-headed Malimbes were found and Yellowmantled Weavers were busy at their nests. A Black-throated Coucal was glimpsed by some of us but for the rest of the group, only its sonorous hoots were persistent reminders of its hidden presence. Blue-throated Roller, Velvet-mantled Drongo and Forest Chestnut-winged Starling were all noteworthy and other species seen here included Black Sparrowhawk, Crested Guineafowl, Levaillant s Cuckoo, Yellowbill, Buff-spotted Woodpecker, White-throated Bee-eater, Swamp Palm 3 Birdquest: Sierra Leone 2010

4 Bulbul and African Paradise Flycatcher. A boat trip on the river was a pleasant way of spending a few hours and produced some great birds. African Fish Eagles yodelled from the overhanging trees and Broad-billed Roller, Woolly-necked Storks and Hadada Ibis also sought their branches. Whitebrowed Forest and Cassin s Flycatchers flitted out from the shadows, Malachite Kingfishers could be found along the banks whilst out on the rocks we saw the red-collared liberiae form of Rock Pratincole and White-headed Lapwings with their pendulous wattles and fearsome spurs as well as White-faced Whistling Duck, Common Greenshank, Common Sandpiper, African Pied Wagtail and glittering White-throated Blue Swallows. On a sandbank we found several pairs of sublime Egyptian Plovers, perhaps arguably the most beautiful wader in the world. A Bat Hawk was seen briefly and at night African Wood Owl was watched and Latham s Forest Francolin called all around the camp. We also repeated our sighting of Brown Nightjar a species first discovered by us at Tiwai during the 2008 tour. We left Tiwai soon after first light and whilst we waited for luggage to be loaded on the bus we birded by a small marsh where a Forbes s Plover was a most welcome find. Our first Blue-throated Brown Sunbird put in an appearance and a Plain-backed Pipit was also seen. This time we were transferring to Gola East and as we re-crossed the Moa River by hand-pulled ferry we found more Egyptian Plovers. Our destination was to be the small border town of Zimmi where we occupied a disused United Nations Guesthouse and its grounds for a two nights stay. Although we were promised great things our forays into Gola East proved to be rather disappointing after the enormous rush of great birds at Tiwai. The swamps held Chattering Cisticolas here at this strangely isolated western outpost and Vieillot s Black Weavers here were of the distinctive castaneofuscus form known as Chestnut-and-black Weaver. The sighting of a superb pair of Crimson Seedcrackers and a Great Snipe were both extremely popular finds and we also saw Western Great Egret, Green Sandpiper, Senegal Coucal. In Gola East we also got wrongfully arrested on the main public road through the forest for engaging in activities (=birdwatching) without a permit which we in fact had already paid for but the bureaucracy of issuing and delivering the paperwork had ultimately failed thus wasting several hours of our valuable time and inflicting upon us a particularly unnecessary and unpleasant situation. The following day we received a number of official personal apologies but the whole situation could have been totally avoided in the first place. We explored the forest by walking along the main road and on interior trails but the going was slow and the birds few and often far between. Having said that we managed some memorable sightings of which perhaps the main highlight was a superb Congo Serpent Eagle that was enticed back for repeated views. Flight views of Hartlaub s Duck and our only pair of Grey Parrots during the trip were obtained. A male White-spotted Flufftail was coaxed into view for those that squeezed inside the bush with it! We finally got looks at the unassuming Upper Guinea endemic Sharpe s Apalis and the rather more attractive Copper-tailed Glossy Starling. Sadly, we only heard a single Rufous-winged Illadopsis although a Dusky Long-tailed Cuckoo was seen which is another interesting Upper Guinea look-alike that has a different voice. A Crowned Eagle displayed overhead and prehistoric-looking Black-casqued Hornbills glided over the canopy. Cameroon Sombre Greenbul and Western Bearded Greenbul were added to the list, the latter and its spiky yellow beard perhaps being the most impressive of the bunch! In the farmbush we discovered some showy Puvel s Illadopsis that appeared to be the common illadopsis in this habitat, glimpsed a shy party of Capuchin Babblers, Sooty Boubous were persuaded to leave their hiding places although we had no success at setting eyes on an invisible Forest Scrub Robin. Other species worthy of note in the area included Long-crested Eagle, Western Bronze-naped Pigeon, Great Blue Turaco, Common and Didric Cuckoos, Bluebreasted Kingfisher, Rufous-sided Broadbill, Blue Cuckoo-shrike, Yellow-browed and Olive-green Camaropteras, Splendid Glossy Starling and the less impressive Maxwell s Black Weaver. A surprise mammal was what was apparently a Lesser Anomalure, which we watched clinging to a tree in broad daylight. 4 Birdquest: Sierra Leone 2010

5 From Zimmi we made a logistical overnight stop in the busy town of Kenema where we were the first guests in a brand new guesthouse which made the stay much more pleasant. A pair of magnificent Black Bee-eaters en route was the only sighting of note but a visit to some nearby rice fields produced another Great Snipe as well as Intermediate Egret, Squacco Heron, Black Crake, Little Ringed Plover, Wood Sandpiper, Little Bee-eater, Blue-headed Wagtail, Red-throated Pipit, Whinchat, African Moustached Warbler and Red-faced Cisticola. An early start found us driving up to Lalehun in Gola North on a newly repaired road that fortunately cut down the distance that we had to walk to the campsite inside the forest to a measly nine kilometres. The warmth with which we were greeted here was a significant contrast to the reception in Gola East and the guides and porters were keen and eager to welcome and help us. Immediately the feel of the place was different to the Gola we had just left as there was much more bird activity and it took us sometime to escape the farmbush. A superb, little Red-cheeked Wattle-eye dashed back and forth like a speeding bullet but eventually settled long enough for everyone to see it well. The normally secretive Kemp s Longbill proved to be very obliging here and allowed exceptionally good views. Black-winged Orioles uttered their fluty notes from the treetops, Whistling Cisticolas sat up singing loudly and Melancholy Woodpecker was seen far better than previously. On the trek in we discovered a very busy bird party that contained the scarce and most welcome Upper Guinea endemic Yellow-bearded Greenbul as well as Brown-eared Woodpecker and the warbler-like Fraser s Sunbird. We saw species such as Hairy-breasted Barbet well but had less luck with Brown-cheeked Hornbill, Spotted Greenbul and Yellow-throated Cuckoo all of which joined the growing ranks of heard only! On our walk we and ran into a swarm of Driver Ants that do not use stings, rather they use their fearsome mandibles to puncture and tear! In other words once these things are up your trousers then you certainly know about it. We arrived at the campsite rather weary but there was good food and an amazing supply of cold beer to wash it down with and the next morning we were well placed to begin our explorations in search of the rare Gola Malimbe. Our local guide knew exactly where to take us, as he knew the location of a number of nests. Thus it wasn t too long before we were watching a bird party and trying to pick out the malimbes as they travelled through high up in the canopy. At the guides suggestion we moved on to the next nest and found no less than five birds including a pair and two juveniles sitting on and attending to the nest itself! What a sight and it would have been a magnificent picture were it not for hands shaking with excitement and steamed up lenses! However the sight alone was wonderful and it was great to see this rarity so well and so easily. In the same bird party we found a trio of Many-coloured Bush-shrikes including a bright red male. Elsewhere we found Crested Malimbe, a responsive Olive Long-tailed Cuckoo and teased out both Red-tailed and Green-tailed Bristlebills. Sadly a duetting pair of Lagden s Bush-shrikes could not be located but other birds added during our stay included Klaas s Cuckoo, Narina s Trogon, Whitebellied Kingfisher, Shrike Flycatcher, Willow Warbler, White-breasted Negrofinch, Western Bluebill, Black-and-white Mannikin. At the last moment we had super looks at the glorious Upper Guinea endemic Buff-throated Sunbird, surely one of Africa s smartest sunbirds. We returned to Kenema for the night to clean up and sort ourselves out after two nights in the bush. The next day we had another appointment with that very special bird the elusive rockfowl that had so disappointed us on our first day. We had rearranged the itinerary so that we were free to visit a site new to us. Things were a little tense, as nobody wanted to miss the bird a second time around. The day started badly with a misunderstanding about where we were eating breakfast and then an altercation with police at a checkpoint but having got to the village and met up with our local guide things calmed down and we were slowly led up a hill into some decent forest in the Kambui Hills. Although we were not expecting to see the picathartes until the late afternoon it seemed best to suss out the site early and choose the best places to sit. Having seen many picathartes sites in my day I was overjoyed to see this one. The huge rock held about eight nests and overhung a small stream. It was like a natural theatre with a sandy beach as a stage. There surely could not be a better place to 5 Birdquest: Sierra Leone 2010

6 view the birds than this. We saw little new as we walked through the forest during the day except Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird although an ant swarm allowed us super looks at White-tailed Alethe and White-tailed Ant Thrush. In good time we returned to the picathartes site and settled down for our vigil. We had been told that the birds had been arriving at the nest site to preen and roost at each afternoon and we watched the minutes tick away. In fact it wasn t until that the first birds furtively slunk in. Although secretive at first they seemed to become quickly used to our presence and soon we were watching them hopping around in front of us and also flying up to visit the nests even hough this was the non-breeding season. We saw no less than four individuals and as the birds roost at the site we left leaving good time for them to settle back down for the night. This was such a memorable experience, perhaps a better one than any of us dared hope for and indeed a show that was totally marvellous and unforgettable! The next day we were on the road again heading for Bumbuna on the edge of the Sula Mountains. We spent most of the morning roadside birding in open savannah and this immediately brought a flurry of new birds. In fact it was rather refreshing to be outside the restricting, neck-wrenching constraints of the closed forest for a change watching birds that were somewhat easier to see. At last we managed to catch up with one of the special birds of the region and we all managed good looks at a pair of duetting Turati s Boubou. A pair of Green Turacos flew across the road and flocks of Yellow-mantled Widowbirds and pretty Zebra Waxbills were seen. Brightly coloured Abyssinian Rollers took prominent perches, the dainty African Blue Flycatcher flitted through shrubbery that held squabbling Blackcap Babblers and sweetly singing Black-crowned Tchagras. A dapper African Hobby swept past us landing in the middle of the road to devour some prey item. Out in the open country were Double-spurred Francolin, European Bee-eater, Striped Kingfisher, Fine-spotted Woodpecker, Yellow-throated Longclaw, Croaking and Short-winged Cisticolas, Northern Black Flycatcher, Redbilled Firefinch and Orange-cheeked Waxbill. Whilst near another bush fire a Wahlberg s Eagle and a Beaudouin s Snake Eagle were welcome additions to the list. We had an afternoon and a morning at Bumbuna and during our time here we managed to notch up even more new species. The star of the show had to be the glittering Emerald Starling. This localised species proved particularly easy to see here this year and were apparently breeding in a hole in one of the larger trees. Vinaceous Doves were calling loudly and a Pearl-spotted Owlet attracted some angry small birds including Green-headed and Copper Sunbirds. A good assortment of hirundines enabled us to see Rufous-chested Swallow and Preuss s Cliff Swallows and interestingly more Redrumped Swallows apparently of the race kumboensis mixed in with the form domicella that is sometimes split as West African Swallow. African Pygmy Kingfisher and a flock of Red-headed Lovebirds dashed past and the near proximity of water had obviously attracted species such as Hamerkop, African Open-billed Stork, Spur-winged Goose and Giant Kingfisher. A smattering of Palearctic visitors included Tree Pipit, Melodious and Garden Warblers and Spotted Flycatcher alongside resident species such as Senegal Eremomela, Senegal Batis, Fork-tailed Drongo and Yellow White-eye. A pair of Leaflove and a male Red-shouldered Cuckoo-shrike were both good finds and Violet-backed Starling, long-crested White Helmet-shrikes and African Golden Oriole were also great birds to see. The grasslands and cultivation supported a good number of birds and we found Magpie Mannikin, Pin-tailed Whydah, Red-headed Quelea, Yellow-fronted Canary, Bush Petronia and Cabanis s Bunting as well as Cameroon Indigobird and its host species Dybowski s Twinspot. The time had finally come to turn tail and head back to Freetown and it was a bit of a shock to find ourselves back in this chaotic city with its narrow streets and thronging masses of people that quickly enwrapped us in a sticky traffic jam before we finally reached the hotels by the beaches of Aberdeen where a scan over the estuary revealed a few Palearctic waders and Black Terns. Our last day in Sierra Leone was something of an anti climax. We returned to the forest at Tacugama where it was quiet and peaceful and the tranquillity of the forest was only disturbed by the yawns and sighs of the group. It would seem that it was definitely time to leave and we returned to our hotel 6 Birdquest: Sierra Leone 2010

7 where we were cooled by sea breezes and enjoyed a leisurely lunch before being ferried, this time by boat back to Lungi airport and awaited our flight home. It was indeed all over and it was something of a blessed relief to get into air conditioning and reflect on the previous two weeks. One thing is for sure the country is definitely not for the faint hearted, nothing (including the birds!) is easy, accommodation is pretty grim but showing signs of improvement, the rural roads are often appalling and it is hot and humid with no respite. On the other hand some of the birds are amazing and cannot be seen easily anywhere else and we clung on to some brilliant snapshot memories of preening picathartes, glowing Gola Malimbes, brilliant Crimson Seedcrackers, Emerald Starlings and Buffthroated Sunbirds and many others. As time progresses conditions will certainly continue to improve and birding areas will become more accessible and well known. Birdquest will certainly be back as we still have an appointment with that elusive Sierra Leone Prinia currently tucked away out of reach in the remote northeastern mountains! 7 Birdquest: Sierra Leone 2010

8 SYSTEMATIC LIST Species which were heard but not seen are indicated by the symbol (H). Species which were not personally recorded by the leader are indicated by the symbol (NL). PHALACROCORACIDAE Long-tailed Cormorant Phalacrocorax africanus: Also known as Reed Cormorant, we obtained widespread sightings in appropriate habitat throughout the tour. ARDEIDAE Squacco Heron Ardeola ralloides: One was seen on the Kenema rice fields. The name squacco is derived from a purely local Italian name. In the absence of a native name, Willughby noted c Ardea quam Sguacco vocant in Vallibus dictis Malalbergi ; this he had from the Renaissance encyclopaedist Ulisse Androvandi ( Ornithologia ). Ray ( The Ornithology of Francis Willughby Translated into English, and enlarged by J. Ray, 1678) and translated it as the Heron which they call Sguacco in the Valleys of Malalbergo. Hill ( A General Natural History ) erroneously spelt the name squacco. Latham ( General Synopsis of Birds ) took over this misspelling and added Heron. The original name sguacco supposedly imitates the husky call. Western Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis: A familiar species that was common to abundant throughout. Green-backed Heron Butorides striata: Also known as Striated Heron we saw singletons in Freetown. Western Reef Egret Egretta gularis: A few were seen at River No 2 and more in Freetown although it is possible that we overlooked many white phase birds as they can be very difficult to separate from Little Egret with which it is sometimes lumped. Little Egret Egretta garzetta: Just two positive sighting of bird in swamps and rice fields at Zimmi and Kenema. Intermediate Egret Egretta intermedia: Two were seen in the rice fields at Kenema. The species is sometimes placed in the genus Mesophoyx. Western Great Egret Egretta alba: A few widespread sightings in appropriate habitat. The species is sometimes placed in the genus Ardea but more frequently in Casmerodius as DNA work suggests that it is also more closely related to the herons than the egrets. Grey Heron Ardea cinerea: A few widespread sightings in appropriate habitat. SCOPIDAE Hamerkop Scopus umbretta: Just one of these strange birds was seen at Bumbuna Falls. CICONIIDAE African Open-billed Stork Anastomus lamelligerus: A somewhat distant large flock of about 40 birds were seen at Bumbuna on 17/2. There do not seem to be any documented records from this area. Woolly-necked Stork Ciconia episcopus: Most easy to see on Tiwai Island. THRESKIORNITHIDAE Hadada Ibis Bostrychia hagedash: Small numbers were seen on Tiwai Island. The name is based on an onomatopoeic rendering of the call. Olive Ibis Bostrychia olivacea (H): Sadly only heard pre-dawn on Tiwai Island. ANATIDAE White-faced Whistling Duck Dendrocygna viduata: This strikingly patterned duck was present on the Moa River at Tiwai in numbers that easily exceeded 30. Spur-winged Goose Plectropterus gambensis: One was seen in flight at Bumbuna. Hartlaub s Duck Pteronetta hartlaubii: This forest duck is always a popular tick. We managed to see birds on five separate localities but frustratingly only ever in flight. Gustav Hartlaub 8 Birdquest: Sierra Leone 2010

9 ( ) was a German physician and collector with a specialist interest in East African Birds. He became Honorary Supervisor of the Zoological Collection of the Bremen Natural History Society Museum and was also co-author of Die Vogel Ost Afrika with Friederich Hermann Otto Finsch. The species is classified as Near Threatened in Birdlife International s Threatened Birds of the World. Hunting and pollution appear to be the major threats. PANDIONIDAE [This family is often lumped (as in Birds of Africa) in Accipitridae.] Western Osprey Pandion haliaetus: This Palearctic migrant was seen at No 2 River and in Freetown. ACCIPITRIDAE European Honey Buzzard Pernis apivorus: Just one good sighting of this Palearctic migrant in flight over Guma Dam. Bat Hawk Macheiramphus alcinus (NL): A shadowy shape for some at dusk at Tiwai Island. Yellow-billed Kite Milvus aegyptius: The race parasitus was very common throughout. The resident and intra-african migrant forms are often lumped in Black Kite M. migrans however recent DNA analysis suggests that the African forms are more closely related to Red Kite M. milvus. To add to the complexity of the problem, northern and southern populations of Yellow-billed Kite may in turn prove to be specifically distinct from each other. African Fish Eagle Haliaeetus vocifer: Often heard and a single bird was seen on Tiwai Island. A handsome bird and surely its voice is one of the most evocative sounds of Africa! Palm-nut Vulture Gypohierax angolensis: Widespread sightings and commonly seen throughout the tour. This strange, predominantly vegetarian raptor is not really a vulture at all and is in fact more closely related to the fish eagles hence the alternative name Vulturine Fish Eagle. Hooded Vulture Necrosyrtes monachus: Often associated with urban areas in Sierra Leone this was a common vulture in the Freetown area. Beaudouin s Snake Eagle Circaetus beaudouini: A chance sighting near a bush fire north of Mile 91 on 17/2. This is slightly south of the given range in Borrow & Demey. Beaudouin was a French collector employed by the Verreaux family and he was known to be collecting in what is now Guinea-Bissau around about Brown Snake Eagle Circaetus cinereus: Just one sighting over Tacugama. Congo Serpent Eagle Dryotriorchis spectabilis: A most welcome addition to the list was this responsive bird in Gola East that was persuaded to show itself several times even briefly perching in full view. African Harrier Hawk Polyboroides typus: Also known as Gymnogene, which means bare cheeks, this strange, double-jointed raptor was commonly encountered in Sierra Leone. Eurasian Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus: A female of this Palearctic migrant was seen by some of the group at Bumbuna. Red-chested Goshawk Accipiter toussenelii: Four widespread sightings of the distinctive form macroscelides. This form is sometimes even considered distinct from toussenelii but most authors lump them both in African Goshawk A. tachiro. The plumage range is complex and variable within the group but calls, displays and habits are all very similar. Shikra Accipiter badius: No less than six individuals of this fierce little raptor were encountered on the tour. Black Sparrowhawk Accipiter melanoleucus: Also known as Great Sparrowhawk, four sightings included a rare melanistic individual on Tiwai Island. Grasshopper Buzzard Butastur rufipennis: Small numbers of these attractive hawks were seen in the burned savannahs as we travelled to Bo and Bumbuna and back to Freetown. This species is a well-known frequenter of bush fires in the dry season. Lizard Buzzard Kaupifalco monogrammicus: Easy to see with a number of widespread sightings and often found sitting motionless staring at the ground. 9 Birdquest: Sierra Leone 2010

10 Red-necked Buzzard Buteo auguralis: First seen as we left Freetown, we subsequently enjoyed a number of widespread sightings of this attractive raptor with a red tail. Wahlberg s Eagle Aquila wahlbergi: One was seen near a bush fire north of Mile 91. Ayres s Hawk Eagle Hieraaetus ayresii: One white-headed individual and a normally plumaged bird were seen during our visits to Tacugama. The species is sometimes placed in the genus Aquila. Thomas Ayres ( ) was a British collector who settled in South Africa. His other lines of work included gold digging and brewing beer! Long-crested Eagle Lophaetus occipitalis: We managed several sightings of this crazy bird with its ridiculous hair-do. Cassin s Hawk Eagle Spizaetus africanus: Two positive sightings of singletons at Guma Dam on 6/2 and at Tacugama on 19/2 with the clean white underparts and the longish tail being well noted. This appears to be a western extension of range, as there does not appear to be any previous historically documented records for the peninsula although the species has been noted by other visiting birders to this the area in recent years. John Cassin ( ) was an American businessman and renowned systematic ornithologist. He became curator of ornithology and Vice-President of the Philadelphia Academy of Natural Sciences. Crowned Eagle Stephanoaetus coronatus: This heavyweight raptor was seen and heard displaying over the great forest at Gola East. FALCONIDAE Common Kestrel Falco tinnunculus (NL): Just one sighting of this Palearctic migrant by Jürgen as we travelled to Bo. African Hobby Falco cuvierii: Absolutely fantastic views of a single bird north of Mile 91 that dashed past us and landed in the road ahead of us to devour some item of prey allowing us all some excellent scope views. Lanner Falcon Falco biarmicus: A singleton was seen flying high over Guma Dam on 6/2. According to Birds of Freetown Peninsula, Geoffrey Field never positively confirmed the definite occurrence of this species during his days in Sierra Leone. PHASIANIDAE Latham s Forest Francolin Francolinus lathami (H): Commonly heard at night on Tiwai Island and in Gola North but we never had any luck with them during the day. Dr John Latham ( ) was a British physician, naturalist and author of a General History of Birds. Double-spurred Francolin Francolinus bicalcaratus: Our best views were at Bumbuna. NUMIDIDAE Crested Guineafowl Numida pucherani: Only Nik saw one on Tiwai Island. RALLIDAE White-spotted Flufftail Sarothrura pulchra: Heard far more often than it was seen but we managed to coax a male into view for most of those that tried to see it in Gola East. Red-chested Flufftail Sarothrura rufa (H): One was heard calling from a swamp in Gola East. Black Crake Amaurornis flavirostris: Heard in Gola East and seen by some of us in the Kenema rice fields. BURHINIDAE Senegal Thick-knee Burhinus senegalensis: Three were seen well on the golf course at Freetown and another en route to Tiwai. 10 Birdquest: Sierra Leone 2010

11 PLUVIANIDAE [This recently split family is lumped in Glareolidae by Borrow & Demey and many other authors.] Egyptian Plover Pluvianus aegyptius: No less than six of these sublime waders were seen extremely well on Tiwai Island. Another was seen as we re-crossed the Moa River further south. The alternative name of Crocodile Bird seems to be based on a bit of dodgy information gathered by Herodotus and Pliny referring to the species supposed habit of picking the teeth of basking, gaping crocodiles. There has been no modern observation to support this phenomenon. GLAREOLIDAE Rock Pratincole Glareola nuchalis: Good numbers of the rufous-collared race liberiae were seen on various rocky rivers. CHARADRIIDAE Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius: Five of these Palearctic migrants were seen on the Kenema rice fields. Common Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula: One of these Palearctic migrants was seen on No 2 River. Forbes s Plover Charadrius forbesi: A lucky sighting of one in a swamp near Tiwai Island brought a great deal of pleasure to everyone! William Alexander Forbes ( ) was a British zoologist who collected in West Africa in 1882 where he died on the Upper Niger River. Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola: Also known as Black-bellied Plover, a few of these Palearctic migrants were seen in Freetown. African Wattled Lapwing Vanellus senegallus: A pair was seen in flight en route to Bo. White-headed Lapwing Vanellus albiceps: We enjoyed a pair of these striking lapwings with their pendulous yellow wattles on the Moa River at Tiwai. SCOLOPACIDAE Sanderling Calidris alba: A small flock of about ten of these Palearctic migrants were seen in Freetown. Great Snipe Gallinago media: Singletons of this Palearctic migrant were seen in a swamp in Gola East and in the rice fields at Kenema. This species is classified as Near Threatened by Birdlife International and appears to be declining in numbers at a moderate rate. The world population may be under one million individuals and habitat loss and hunting appear to be the main threats. Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica: At least one of these Palearctic migrants was seen in Freetown. Eurasian Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus: Four of these Palearctic migrants were easy to see at River No 2 and more were in Freetown. Eurasian Curlew Numenius arquata: At least one of these Palearctic migrants was seen in Freetown. Common Redshank Tringa totanus (NL): Several of these Palearctic migrants were seen in Freetown. Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia: Small numbers of these Palearctic migrants were seen at No 2 River, Tiwai and Freetown. Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus: Up to two of these Palearctic migrants were seen in a swamp in Gola East. Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola: Three of these Palearctic migrants were seen at Kenema rice fields. Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos: Small numbers of these Palearctic migrants were seen at Tiwai, Freetown and Bumbuna. STERNIDAE [This family is sometimes lumped in Laridae] Caspian Tern Sterna caspia: Two were seen amongst the large tern roost on the beach at No 2 River. The species is sometimes placed in the monotypic genus Hydroprogne. 11 Birdquest: Sierra Leone 2010

12 Royal Tern Sterna maxima: Large numbers had gathered on the beach at River No 2. The small race concerned is albididorsalis, which looks rather different from its American relative and has been rumoured to be the subject for a potential split. The species is sometimes placed in the genus Thalasseus. Sandwich Tern Sterna sandvicensis: Small numbers could be seen in Freetown. This Palearctic migrant is sometimes placed in the genus Thalasseus. Black Tern Chlidonias niger: A few of these Palearctic migrants were seen offshore in the Freetown area. COLUMBIDAE African Green Pigeon Treron calvus: Widespread sightings of these handsome birds throughout the tour. Blue-headed Wood Dove Turtur brehmeri: Extremely common judging by the number we heard but this beautiful but secretive forest dove is not easy to see. However we all had good views in Gola East and North. Tambourine Dove Turtur tympanistria: A number of widespread sightings during the tour but usually seen in flight. The name refers to the bouncing rhythm of its song. Blue-spotted Wood Dove Turtur afer: We had numerous opportunities to get good views of this small dove that was constantly heard bemoaning the fate of its relatives. Western Bronze-naped Pigeon Columba iriditorques: Very common judging by the number we heard but this canopy forest dove was not easy to see. However we had good looks at them in Gola East and North and at Tacugama. Rock Dove Columba livia: Only domestic birds. An occupational hazard when driving through towns and villages! Red-eyed Dove Streptopelia semitorquata: Sings, I am a Red-eyed Dove. This common bird was seen throughout the tour. Vinaceous Dove Streptopelia vinacea: With its rhythmic song often in our ears this was a very obvious species at Bumbuna. Laughing Dove Streptopelia senegalensis: Just a few were seen in Freetown. The name refers to its call. PSITTACIDAE Grey Parrot Psittacus erithacus: A very poor showing with just one pair of the maroon-tailed race timneh was seen flying over Gola East. Red-headed Lovebird Agapornis pullarius: A flock of six was seen in rapid flight at Bumbuna. MUSOPHAGIDAE Great Blue Turaco Corythaeola cristata: We had a number of chances to see these strange creatures with their ridiculous topknots but they were nowhere common. Green Turaco Tauraco persa: Great flight views of a pair as they flew across the road in front of us en route to Bumbuna. The feathers of turacos possess two copper pigments, red turacin and green turacoverdin that are unique in the avian world and are responsible for producing the bright red and green colours in their plumage. Contrary to popular belief these pigments are only soluble in alkali and not water. Yellow-billed Turaco Tauraco macrorhynchus: Often heard and seldom seen, this species proved very tricky to set eyes on but we had views of the nominate race with a black tip to the crest first in Gola East and North. Western Grey Plantain-eater Crinifer piscator: First seen in Freetown but we had our best views at Bumbuna. Despite its name the species is not known to eat plantains in the wild! CUCULIDAE Levaillant s Cuckoo Oxylophus levaillantii: We managed sightings of this distinctive cuckoo at Tiwai, Gola North and Bumbuna. This cuckoo parasitises babblers and was described by the 12 Birdquest: Sierra Leone 2010

13 English naturalist William Swainson and named after François Levaillant ( ), a great French taxidermist, collector and ornithologist who had a specialist interest in the birds of southern Africa. Levaillant s reputation is somewhat marred as he was proved to be something of a stringer inventing not only new species but even the journeys on which he claimed to have found them! Red-chested Cuckoo Cuculus solitarius (H): This harbinger of rain was only heard at Tiwai and Gola North. This cuckoo is known to mainly parasitise thrushes and robins. Common Cuckoo Cuculus canorus: One of these Palearctic migrants was seen in Gola East. Dusky Long-tailed Cuckoo Cercococcyx mechowi: One was seen well in Gola East. It should be noted that although the species is monotypic the voice of the Upper Guinea population is significantly different from those from Cameroon eastwards. It has been suggested that they may be separate species. The hosts are unknown but possibly include Forest Robin and Brown Illadopsis. Olive Long-tailed Cuckoo Cercococcyx olivinus: Good flight views of a responsive bird in Gola North. The host species of this cuckoo remain unknown but Pale-breasted Illadopsis and ant thrushes are possibilities. African Emerald Cuckoo Chrysococcyx cupreus (H): Only distant birds were heard singing in Gola East and North. This cuckoo is known to parasitise a wide range of small insectivorous passerines. Yellow-throated Cuckoo Chrysococcyx flavigularis (H): Sadly this elusive and localised cuckoo was only heard in Gola North. Klaas s Cuckoo Chrysococcyx klaas: Just two individuals were seen in Gola North. This species is known to parasitise a wide variety of small, insectivorous passerines, principally warblers and sunbirds. It was described by Stephens in 1815 and is supposedly named after one of Francois Levaillant s Khoikhoi (Hottentot) servants. Popular myth has it that he was the husband of Narina who was in turn the mistress of Levaillant! Didric Cuckoo Chrysococcyx caprius: Small numbers were noted in Gola East and North. This cuckoo is known to parasitise mainly weavers and the name is based on an onomatopoeic rendering of the call. Yellowbill Ceuthmochares aereus: Also known as Blue Malkoha this species was common and easy to see during the tour. CENTROPIDAE [This family is often lumped in Cuculidae] Black-throated Coucal Centropus leucogaster: It was business as usual and the bird remained just a frustrating, sonorous voice, deep in the forest for most of the group but it seemed to be pretty common at Tiwai where some of us were fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of one. Senegal Coucal Centropus senegalensis: We managed a number of sightings in farmbush and savannah. STRIGIDAE Pearl-spotted Owlet Glaucidium perlatum: One of these fierce little owls was seen well at Bumbuna. African Wood Owl Strix woodfordii: We enjoyed some excellent views of one captured in the torch beam on Tiwai Island. CAPRIMULGIDAE Brown Nightjar Caprimulgus binotatus: Two birds were seen in flight fluttering through the torch beam at Tiwai on 10/2. This species was only recently discovered in the Gola Forest and we found the first records for Tiwai in the same area in The species has recently been placed in the monotypic genus Veles. Long-tailed Nightjar Caprimulgus climacurus: Small numbers were seen on the roads during our nighttime journeys. 13 Birdquest: Sierra Leone 2010

14 Black-shouldered Nightjar Caprimulgus nigriscapularis: A perched singing male was caught in the torch beam en route to Tiwai. Standard-winged Nightjar Macrodipteryx longipennis: This was definitely the most common nightjar and good numbers were seen including some incredible males with their spectacular appendages! We even happened upon a pair in broad daylight at Gola East. APODIDAE Sabine s Spinetail Rhaphidura sabini: First seen well over the forest at Guma Dam. Edward Sabine ( ) was an English scientist mainly interested in terrestrial magnetism and astronomy. He collected the spinetail and the puffback; both named after him, in Sierra Leone and donated them to the British Museum where J. E. Gray officially described the specimens. African Palm Swift Cypsiurus parvus: Most commonly seen between Freetown and Bo and always associated with palms. Common Swift Apus apus: Good numbers of this Palearctic migrant were seen throughout the tour. Little Swift Apus affinis: Most common in the Freetown area with an affinity for concrete. TROGONIDAE Narina s Trogon Apaloderma narina: A male was seen high in the canopy in Gola North. The bird is supposedly named after the beautiful Hottentot mistress of Levaillant. ALCEDINIDAE [Sibley and Monroe place the Halcyon kingfishers in the family, Halcyonidae and the Megaceryle and Ceryle kingfishers in the family, Cerylidae.] Chocolate-backed Kingfisher Halcyon badia: This attractive kingfisher was commonly heard throughout the forests and we managed to see it particularly well on Tiwai Island. Grey-headed Kingfisher Halcyon leucocephala: Seen at Guma Dam and Bumbuna. Blue-breasted Kingfisher Halcyon malimbica: Commonly heard and our best view was in Gola East. Woodland Kingfisher Halcyon senegalensis: This species was encountered regularly on journeys and in farmbush. Striped Kingfisher Halcyon chelicuti: Small numbers were seen en route to and at Bumbuna. African Pygmy Kingfisher Ceyx pictus: Just one sighting of this stunning little jewel in flight at Bumbuna. The species is sometimes placed in the genus Ispidina. White-bellied Kingfisher Alcedo leucogaster: Only Nik saw one fly past inside forest along a small stream in Gola North. The species is sometimes placed in the genus Corythornis. Malachite Kingfisher Alcedo cristata: Widespread sightings of this common kingfisher. The species is sometimes placed in the genus Corythornis. Shining-blue Kingfisher Alcedo quadribrachys: An intensely coloured kingfisher seen along No 2 River and again at Tiwai. Giant Kingfisher Megaceryle maxima: Jürgen saw one of these huge kingfishers at Bumbuna. Pied Kingfisher Ceryle rudis: Singletons were seen at Tiwai and in Freetown. MEROPIDAE Black Bee-eater Merops gularis: A poor showing and strangely absent from much suitable habitat but we had terrific views of a pair of these superb bee-eaters en route to Kenema. Little Bee-eater Merops pusillus: Sightings of these pretty bee-eaters were obtained near Zimmi, Kenema rice fields and at Bumbuna. White-throated Bee-eater Merops albicollis: These beautiful intra-african migrants were common and easy to see throughout the tour. Blue-cheeked Bee-eater Merops persicus: This Palearctic and intra-african migrant was most common around the coast in the Freetown area. European Bee-eater Merops apiaster: Two of these Palearctic migrants were seen en route to Bumbuna. 14 Birdquest: Sierra Leone 2010

15 CORACIIDAE Blue-bellied Roller Coracias cyanogaster: This wonderful West African specialty was seen well by the roadside during our drive to Bo. More were seen as we travelled back from Bumbuna. Abyssinian Roller Coracias abyssinicus: A pair of these intensely coloured rollers was seen in the savannahs en route to Bumbuna. Blue-throated Roller Eurystomus gularis: Several were seen well at Tiwai and we encountered the species again at Bayama. Broad-billed Roller Eurystomus glaucurus: This colourful roller was commonly encountered throughout the tour. BUCEROTIDAE [Sibley & Monroe place the genus Bucorvus in a separate family Bucorvidae.] White-crested Hornbill Tropicranus albocristatus: Individuals were met with at Tiwai and in Gola North where they were typically in association with a troop of monkeys and we had great looks at these striking birds with their long tails and bushy crests. Red-billed Dwarf Hornbill Tockus camurus: A responsive pair of these noisy hornbills was seen in the canopy above our heads at Tiwai. African Pied Hornbill Tockus fasciatus: By far the most common hornbill encountered. The particular race concerned, semifasciatus has been historically treated as a separate species, Allied Hornbill. Who knows it may well be again! African Grey Hornbill Tockus nasutus: Singletons were seen en route to Bo and at Bumbuna. Piping Hornbill Bycanistes fistulator: A small hornbill that was first seen at Tiwai and thereafter regularly recorded. The species is sometimes placed in the genus Ceratogymna. Brown-cheeked Hornbill Bycanistes cylindricus (H): This Upper Guinea endemic was frustratingly elusive and ultimately was only heard in Gola North. The species is sometimes placed in the genus Ceratogymna. The species is classified as Near Threatened in Birdlife International s Threatened Birds of the World. Hunting and habitat loss appear to be the major threats but the situation remains little known. Black-casqued Hornbill Ceratogymna atrata: Despite the fact that the forest canopy was so thick we managed to get some good views of this prehistoric-looking creature in Gola East. Yellow-casqued Hornbill Ceratogymna elata: A feature of the Sierra Leone forests was the amazing sound of the whirring wings of this and the previous species as they glided overhead. The species is classified as Near Threatened in Birdlife International s Threatened Birds of the World. Hunting and habitat loss appear to be the major threats. CAPITONIDAE [Sibley & Monroe place the African barbets in a separate family Lybiidae.] Naked-faced Barbet Gymnobucco calvus (H): Strangely absent throughout the tour, we only heard these bizarre and punkish birds at Bayama but could not see them through the dense canopy. Speckled Tinkerbird Pogoniulus scolopaceus: This spotty tinkerbird was easily seen throughout the tour. Red-rumped Tinkerbird Pogoniulus atroflavus: This handsome tinkerbird was first seen in the forest at Gola North. Elsewhere it was often heard emitting its series of single regular poops. Yellow-throated Tinkerbird Pogoniulus subsulphureus: We had a number of opportunities to see this one well throughout the tour. The race concerned is chrysopyga that confusingly lacks the yellow throat and looks very much like the following species. These particular tinkerbirds produce the fastest series of poops and this is probably the best way to identify them. Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird Pogoniulus bilineatus: This look-alike species was heard at Guma Dam and Tacugama and seen at Bayama and Bumbuna. A series of slower poops identified the species. 15 Birdquest: Sierra Leone 2010

16 Yellow-spotted Barbet Buccanodon duchaillui: This attractive barbet was seen well on several occasions but first at Tiwai. It was obviously a very common bird because its mournful hooting calls were far more often heard than the bird was seen. This call is completely different from the snoring call of those populations further east in spite of there being no subspecific differences. Hairy-breasted Barbet Tricholaema hirsuta: This handsome bird was heard at Tiwai and we obtained scope views in Gola North. The eastern forms are sometimes split from this, the nominate making it an Upper Guinea Forests endemic. Yellow-billed Barbet Trachylaemus purpuratus (H): Very quiet during the entire trip and only heard once on Tiwai Island. The species is sometimes placed in the genus Trachyphonus. However, those very social barbets both look, sound and act differently to the present species. INDICATORIDAE Spotted Honeyguide Indicator maculatus: One sighting at Tiwai and heard in Gola East. It would seem that Sierra Leone is one of the easier countries in which to find this elusive species. The host species of this honeyguide remain unknown. Thick-billed Honeyguide Indicator conirostris: This record is problematic as it was seen at Tacugama and it is not clear from literature whether this or the closely related Lesser Honeyguide I. minor is the species that occurs here. Vocalisations between this Thick-billed and Lesser Honeyguides are almost identical and it seems likely that they are conspecific. However the tone and rhythm of the notes and the forested habitat point to it being this species. The known host species are Grey-throated and almost certainly Naked-faced Barbets. PICIDAE Fine-spotted Woodpecker Campethera punctuligera: A male was seen well en route to Bumbuna. Little Green Woodpecker Campethera maculosa: This Upper Guinea Forests endemic was first seen well directly above our heads on Tiwai Island. Trying to see it almost broke a few necks but we subsequently encountered another in Gola East. Buff-spotted Woodpecker Campethera nivosa: Sightings of this diminutive woodpecker were obtained on Tiwai Island, Gola East and North and at Bumbuna. Brown-eared Woodpecker Campethera caroli: A retiring species in bird parties in both Gola East and North and not easy to get on to. Melancholy Woodpecker Dendropicos lugubris: We first saw this Upper Guinea Forest endemic at Tacugama but had better views in Gola North. The form responds well to the voice of Gabon Woodpecker D. gabonensis with which it sounds identical and is often lumped. Grey Woodpecker Dendropicos goertae: A pair was seen well on the golf course at Freetown and another was found en route to Bumbuna. The species is sometimes placed in the genus Mesopicos. EURYLAIMIDAE Rufous-sided Broadbill Smithornis rufolateralis: Two sightings, both of males in Gola East and North. The latter was watched pirouetting around on its perch in display like some mechanical toy. HIRUNDINIDAE Square-tailed Saw-wing Psalidoprocne nitens: Small numbers were seen at widespread forested locations. Fanti Saw-wing Psalidoprocne obscura: This Upper Guinea endemic was easy to see in the Freetown area and at Bumbuna. The Fanti are an ethnic group mainly centred in the southwestern coastal region of Ghana. Common Sand Martin Riparia riparia: A huge gathering of these Palearctic migrants was seen at a bush fire near Bo and smaller numbers were noted at other widespread locations. 16 Birdquest: Sierra Leone 2010

17 Rufous-chested Swallow Hirundo semirufa: Small numbers of these large and handsome swallows were seen well at Bumbuna. This species is sometimes placed in the genus Cecropis. Lesser Striped Swallow Hirundo abyssinica: Only small numbers of this normally common resident swallow were seen throughout the tour. This species is sometimes placed in the genus Cecropis. Red-rumped Swallow Hirundo daurica: A few sightings in Freetown and Bumbuna appeared to be of the resident form kumboensis. This species is sometimes placed in the genus Cecropis. West African Swallow Hirundo domicella: This paler form has been treated as a separate species from all other races of H. daurica by Sibley & Monroe. The IOC also split domicella but it is unclear from their unreferenced list as to whether they include the other African resident races in this species or in daurica. Small numbers were seen at Bumbuna and it is interesting to note that they occurred there alongside the previous form. This species is sometimes placed in the genus Cecropis. Preuss s Cliff Swallow Hirundo preussi: Just two individuals were seen at Bumbuna. Paul Preuss was a Polish-born German who collected in West Africa between and in He constructed the Botanical Gardens at Limbe in Cameroon in White-throated Blue Swallow Hirundo nigrita: A glittering, gleaming deeply coloured swallow associated with waterways. The proposed name change to White-bibbed Swallow by the IOC is puzzling as the white is on the throat and certainly does not form a bib! Pied-winged Swallow Hirundo leucosoma: A pair of these very special Upper Guinea endemics, sparsely and erratically distributed in West Africa were seen well flying around the golf course in Freetown. Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica: This very familiar Palearctic migrant was certainly the most abundant hirundine seen during the tour. Common House Martin Delichon urbicum: One of these Palearctic migrants was seen at River No 2 and a small number were noted in the enormous hirundine flock at the bush fire near Bo. MOTACILLIDAE Blue-headed Wagtail Motacilla (flava) flava: All of those flava wagtails identified appeared to be this form. This Palearctic migrant from Western Europe and western Russia was seen at Tiwai, Kenema and en route to Bumbuna. Historically the species has been split into a number of different species and is set to do so again. African Pied Wagtail Motacilla aguimp: Several were seen on the Moa River and again at Bumbuna. Plain-backed Pipit Anthus leucophrys (NL): Jürgen saw this large and dark tail-wagging pipit near Tiwai. Tree Pipit Anthus trivialis (NL): Two sightings of this Palearctic migrant at Bumbuna. Red-throated Pipit Anthus cervinus: We saw no less than three of these Palearctic migrants on the Kenema rice fields on 12/2. Borrow & Demey show only one other previous record for the country but the species appears to be seen regularly at Kenema and has perhaps been overlooked in the past. Yellow-throated Longclaw Macronyx croceus: A distant pair was seen en route to Bumbuna. CAMPEPHAGIDAE Red-shouldered Cuckoo-shrike Campephaga phoenicea: A male was seen briefly at Bumbuna. Blue Cuckoo-shrike Coracina azurea: This must-see bird disappointed as we only had brief views in Gola East. PYCNONOTIDAE Little Greenbul Andropadus virens: An abundant forest species but far more often heard than seen. Little Grey Greenbul Andropadus gracilis: Often heard and seen well on a number of occasions. Ansorge s Greenbul Andropadus ansorgei: Good looks at this undistinguished greenbul in the peninsula and Gola forests. Dr William John Ansorge ( ) was an English explorer and collected in Africa. 17 Birdquest: Sierra Leone 2010

18 Cameroon Sombre Greenbul Andropadus curvirostris: Also known as Plain Greenbul we had sightings in Gola East and North. Slender-billed Greenbul Andropadus gracilirostris: We managed a number of good sightings during the tour. Yellow-whiskered Greenbul Andropadus latirostris: Like so many other forest species, this common bird was heard far more often than it was seen. Honeyguide Greenbul Baeopogon indicator: First seen at Guma Dam but we had numerous opportunities to see this one. Spotted Greenbul Ixonotus guttatus (H): The dense canopy proved problematic when it came to seeing flocks of these attractive, wing-flicking greenbuls was seen in Gola East and North. Simple Leaf-love Chlorocichla simplex: Common and rather easy to see in farmbush type habitat throughout the tour. Yellow-throated Leaflove Chlorocichla flavicollis: Seen on Freetown golf course and heard at Bumbuna. Swamp Palm Bulbul Thescelocichla leucoptera: We had our best views of this noisy and distinctive bulbul at Tiwai. Leaflove Pyrrhurus scandens: A pair of these shy birds was seen at Bumbuna. Icterine Greenbul Phyllastrephus icterinus: A common bird and easy to see in the peninsula and Gola forests. Red-tailed Bristlebill Bleda syndactylus: Often a skulker but we managed to get some good views of this handsome bird in Gola North. Green-tailed Bristlebill Bleda eximius: This uncommon species and Upper Guinea Forest endemic was unfortunately only seen in flight at Gola North. The species is classified as Vulnerable in Birdlife International s Threatened Birds of the World. The world population is thought to number less than 10,000 and habitat loss appears to be the main threat. Grey-headed Bristlebill Bleda canicapillus: We had a number of chances to see these skulking Upper Guinea Forest endemics. However the best views had to be those of a roosting bird on Tiwai Island. Western Bearded Greenbul Criniger barbatus: This Upper Guinea Forest endemic with its spiky yellow beard was seen well in the Gola forests. Red-tailed Greenbul Criniger calurus: The smaller greenbul with a bright white puffy throat seen well at Guma Dam and in the Gola forests. Yellow-bearded Greenbul Criniger olivaceus: Also known as Yellow-throated Olive Greenbul, this species was only seen in Gola North where we had several chances to see this Upper Guinea Forest endemic well. The species is classified as Vulnerable in Birdlife International s Threatened Birds of the World. The world population is thought to number less than 10,000 and habitat loss appears to be the main threat. Common Bulbul Pycnonotus barbatus: A familiar species throughout the tour. Western Nicator Nicator chloris: A skulking bird with a loud song but it showed itself well on several occasions. The nicators have also been placed with the bush shrikes but DNA evidence suggests that they be more closely linked with the bulbuls. The name Nicator is a combination of Greek and Latin and can be interpreted as conquest doer. TURDIDAE [The genera Luscinia, Cossypha, Cercotrichas, Saxicola, Oenanthe and Myrmecocichla are sometimes placed in the family Muscicapidae.] Western Forest Robin Stiphrornis erythrothorax: Our best views of these pretty little robins were at Tiwai Island. There has been a move to split the various populations within the complex and if this treatment is followed this then becomes an Upper Guinea Forest endemic with a range reaching Cameroon. However this simply seems to be a very variable species and despite apparent differences in both plumage and songs the various forms will respond aggressively to playback from other populations. 18 Birdquest: Sierra Leone 2010

19 Lowland Akalat Sheppardia cyornithopsis: This species still remains very poorly known and it was a real surprise during the tour that we saw this often-elusive bird so easily. No less than three individuals were seen at Tacugama comprising of an adult and two juveniles in separate locations. Common Nightingale Luscinia megarhynchos (H): A Palearctic migrant that perhaps not surprisingly refused to show itself in the Bumbuna area. Snowy-crowned Robin Chat Cossypha niveicapilla: We had some great views of this fine songster and often-secretive skulker on Freetown golf course. White-tailed Alethe Alethe diademata: We all had some excellent views of this good-looking bird firstly at Tiwai and ultimately at an ant swarm at Bayama. The form concerned which is treated here as an Upper Guinea Forests endemic is sometimes lumped with Fire-crested Alethe A. castanea with the name Fire-crested Alethe being used for the enlarged species. According to recent DNA analysis, this species pair remains the only representatives of the genus Alethe contra Sinclair & Ryan s Birds of Africa South of the Sahara that incorrectly places them in the genus Pseudalethe. White-tailed Ant Thrush Neocossyphus poensis: One was seen briefly at Guma Dam and there was a pair of these volatile birds at the Bayama ant swarm. Finsch s Flycatcher Thrush Stizorhina finschi: This Upper Guinea Forest endemic was commonly heard in the forests and first seen well at Tiwai. Friedrich Hermann Otto Finsch ( ) was a German ethnographer and naturalist who traveled widely. He was appointed Imperial Commissioner for the German colony known as Kaiser-Wilhelmland that is now PNG. He was also co-author of Die Vogel Ost Afrika with Gustav Hartlaub. Forest Scrub Robin Cercotrichas leucosticta (H): This mega-skulker can be incredibly difficult to see. Its sweet ventriloquial song was heard in Gola East and North and at Tacugama but we stood no chance of seeing the bird. Whinchat Saxicola rubetra: A few sightings of these Palearctic migrants at Kenema rice fields and in the Bumbuna area. African Thrush Turdus pelios: Just a few sightings in the Freetown and Bumbuna areas. SYLVIIDAE [The genera Cisticola, Prinia, Heliolais, Spiloptila, Apalis, Hypergerus and Camaroptera are sometimes placed in a separate family, Cisticolidae. The IOC places the genera Acrocephalus and Hippolais in the family Acrocephalidae. The IOC places the genus Phylloscopus in the family Phylloscopidae. The IOC places the genus Hylia in the family Cettidae. The genera Melocichla, Macrosphenus and Sylvietta are treated Incertae sedis by the IOC.] African Moustached Warbler Melocichla mentalis: This wild-eyed and hefty warbler was seen well at Kenema rice fields and en route to Bumbuna. European Reed Warbler Acrocephalus scirpaceus (H): One of these Palearctic migrants was heard on Freetown golf course. Melodious Warbler Hippolais polyglotta: This Palearctic migrant was seen well at Bumbuna. Red-faced Cisticola Cisticola erythrops: We had sightings in the Kenema rice fields and en route to Bumbuna. Whistling Cisticola Cisticola lateralis: Although heard previously we first saw this species well in the farmbush as we walked into Gola North. Chattering Cisticola Cisticola anonymus: The presence of this species in the country was only confirmed recently. The population is strangely isolated but the birds certainly look and sound the same as their counterparts further east. Winding Cisticola Cisticola marginatus (NL): One was seen by some of the group at Bumbuna. Croaking Cisticola Cisticola natalensis: One was seen very well en route to Bumbuna. Short-winged Cisticola Cisticola brachypterus: Also known as Siffling Cisticola we saw several en route to Bumbuna. Tawny-flanked Prinia Prinia subflava: Just a few widespread sightings during the tour but heard more than seen. 19 Birdquest: Sierra Leone 2010

20 Sharpe s Apalis Apalis sharpii: The bird s repetitive cry was a familiar sound throughout the forests but this Upper Guinea Forest endemic was not particularly easy to see this year. Richard Bowdler Sharpe ( ) was a British zoologist with a specialist interest in classification and described over 200 species of birds. Grey-backed Camaroptera Camaroptera brevicaudata: We had several widespread sightings of this somewhat under-rated bird which is really rather attractive when seen well. Yellow-browed Camaroptera Camaroptera superciliaris: More often heard than seen but we did get some good views at Gola East. Olive-green Camaroptera Camaroptera chloronota: Often heard but this lover of the densest undergrowth was also coaxed into view at Gola East. Kemp s Longbill Macrosphenus kempi: This proved to be a tough one to see but we finally connected with it at Gola North and although skulking we managed to get some unexpectedly good views of this Upper Guinea Forest endemic whose range actually reaches South-westernmost Cameroon. Robin (or Robert) Kemp (1871-?) was an accountant and amateur ornithologist and worked for a company building a railway in Sierra Leone where he collected during the years Grey Longbill Macrosphenus concolor: This sibling vine-tangle loving species was extremely vocal and far more common and proved easy to see in the forests on several occasions. Senegal Eremomela Eremomela pusilla (NL): One of these pretty little warblers was seen by some of the group at Bumbuna. Green Crombec Sylvietta virens: Often heard and seldom seen but we all got good views at Guma Dam. This yellow-bellied form has historically been treated as a separate species, Yellowbellied Crombec S. flaviventris. Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus: We obtained a few widespread sightings of this Palearctic migrant. Wood Warbler Phylloscopus sibilatrix: Small numbers of these Palearctic migrants were seen at widespread forested localities. Oriole Warbler Hypergerus atriceps: The alternative name of Moho is a far more attractive choice for this beautiful bird. We saw no less than six on the golf course at Freetown. A strange bird of uncertain affinities it makes a suspended nest like a sunbird, looks like a babbler or an Asiatic bulbul and has a rich warbler-like song. Garden Warbler Sylvia borin): Two of these Palearctic migrants were seen at Bumbuna. Green Hylia Hylia prasina: Great looks at this common but often-elusive warbler in forests throughout the tour. MUSCICAPIDAE Fraser s Forest Flycatcher Fraseria ocreata: We had good views of a pair at Guma Dam. The species was also heard at Tacugama. Louis Fraser ( ) was a British museum man, naturalist, explorer, author and member of the infamous ill-fated Niger River Expedition of He also collected specimens from Fernando Po (Bioko) and was eventually appointed British Consul at Ovidah in West Africa. White-browed Forest Flycatcher Fraseria cinerascens: This water-loving flycatcher was seen well at Tiwai and another at Tacugama. Northern Black Flycatcher Melaenornis edolioides: Our first was seen well en route to Bumbuna and we noted more when we arrived there. Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata: Two of these Palearctic migrants were seen at Bumbuna. Cassin s Flycatcher Muscicapa cassini: Three of these water-loving flycatchers were seen on the Moa River at Tiwai and another was seen at Bumbuna. Ussher s Flycatcher Muscicapa ussheri: Just one pair of these strange rather hirundine-like Upper Guinea Forest endemics was scoped at Guma Dam. Herbert Taylor Ussher CMG ( ) was at one time the Governor of Ghana (then known as the Gold Coast). His specimens were collected for him by a local man called Aubinn. 20 Birdquest: Sierra Leone 2010

21 Grey-throated Flycatcher Myioparus griseigularis (H): An individual was heard on Tiwai Island but could not be seen in the dense undergrowth. MONARCHIDAE [The IOC place the genus Erythrocercus in the family Cettidae and the genus Elminia in the family Stenostiridae.] Chestnut-capped Flycatcher Erythrocercus mccallii: These pretty little monarchs were seen at Tiwai and again in Gola North. It should be noted that the IOC treat this interesting genus as a warbler in the family Cettidae. African Blue Flycatcher Elminia longicauda: One was seen well en route to Bumbuna. This attractive species is treated by the IOC as a member of the family of Fairy Flycatchers, Stenostiridae. Blue-headed Crested Flycatcher Trochocercus nitens: This skulking flycatcher was heard far more often than it was seen during the tour. African Paradise Flycatcher Terpsiphone viridis: Our only sightings were on Tiwai and again at Bayama. Red-bellied Paradise Flycatcher Terpsiphone rufiventer: This graceful bird was seen exceptionally well throughout the forests. PLATYSTEIRIDAE Shrike Flycatcher Megabyas flammulatus: A male doing his wagging-tail-sideways-thing was enjoyed at Gola North. Black-and-white Flycatcher Bias musicus: We had great views of this Vanga Flycatcher with its amazing crest and strange butterfly-like display flight on the golf course at Freetown and again at Bumbuna. Chestnut Wattle-eye Dyaphorophyia castanea: Often encountered throughout the forests. The Dyaphorophyia wattle-eyes are sometimes placed in the genus Platysteira. Red-cheeked Wattle-eye Dyaphorophyia blissetti: Also known as Blissett s Wattle-eye this was a stunning little bird when seen well with its red cheeks and bright turquoise wattle. It took a while as it shot around like a speeding bullet but we ultimately all got good views at Gola North. H. F. Blissett ( ) was an amateur naturalist and British Colonial Administrator in West Africa from The wattle-eye was collected by Swanzy in Ghana and described by Sharpe. This is an Upper Guinea Forest endemic whose range extends to south-westernmost Cameroon. Yellow-bellied Wattle-eye Dyaphorophyia concreta (H): This intensely coloured and simply stunning bird was sadly only heard in Gola North. Common Wattle-eye Platysteira cyanea: Our best views were obtained on the golf course at Freetown and others were heard at Bumbuna. Senegal Batis Batis senegalensis (NL): A pair of these neatly marked little birds was seen well by some of the group at Bumbuna. PICATHARTIDAE Yellow-headed Picathartes Picathartes gymnocephalus: Perhaps the reason to come on this the tour for many people was to have the chance to encounter this almost legendary species and Upper Guinea Forest endemic. Unfortunately they are most easily seen in the rainy season when access to their nest sites is most difficult and when one risks causing the most disturbance to breeding birds. Our visit was in the dry season and at this time the birds disappear for longer into the forest but apparently stay within about 300m of the nest-sites all year round and often roost on or near the nests. Their mud-cup nests are found cemented to the sides of huge boulders deep in the forest and it was by several of these that we sat and waited in the Guma Valley. As this species seemed to be a priority for everyone, we made a special effort to try for this bird on our first afternoon in the forest so that we could maximise our chances of seeing it. We were led to the rocks by 21 Birdquest: Sierra Leone 2010

22 our local guide and settled down to wait but sadly the hoped for show never materialised and only two members of our group managed to glimpse a single bird. However, determined not to be defeated, we reorganised our itinerary so that we could visit another site near Kenema and this proved to be a most fortuitous event as it proved to be a far more comfortable place to look for the birds and generally offered better viewing opportunities. The birds arrived on cue at about and we spent a glorious hour in the company of at least four individuals as they went about their late afternoon ablutions. The wait was certainly worth it and we had some absolutely marvelous and prolonged views of these amazing creatures. The alternative name of White-necked Picathartes seems to be erroneous as the neck is actually yellow! The species is classified as Vulnerable in Birdlife International s Threatened Birds of the World. The world population is thought to number between 2,500 and 10,000 and habitat loss appears to be the main threat. TIMALIIDAE Pale-breasted Illadopsis Illadopsis rufipennis: Often heard and occasionally seen within the forests. Brown Illadopsis Illadopsis fulvescens: Often heard and occasionally seen within the forests and farmbush. Blackcap Illadopsis Illadopsis cleaveri: First seen at Tiwai coming down to drink in the late afternoon at a forest pool. Rufous-winged Illadopsis Illadopsis rufescens (H): Contrary to some trip reports we found this Upper Guinea Forest endemic to be sparse and uncommon. We only heard it once in Gola East. The species is classified as Near Threatened in Birdlife International s Threatened Birds of the World. Habitat loss appears to be the major threat. Puvel s Illadopsis Illadopsis puveli: This appeared to by the common illadopsis in farmbush around the Gola forests and we had great views of several birds at Gola East. Little is known of Pierre Puvel who was French and lived in Guinea-Bissau. Blackcap Babbler Turdoides reinwardtii: Three were seen en route to Bumbuna. Capuchin Babbler Phyllanthus atripennis: We were constantly on the look out for this retiring species and we finally found them at Gola East where these shy babblers were mobbing a dog inside the thick undergrowth. Unfortunately the birds were not responsive and melted away giving only a few glimpses for luckier people. The Capuchins are an order of friars in the Catholic Church who dress in brown robes and cowls. NECTARINIIDAE [There has been a recent revision of the taxonomy of sunbirds with the result that many species have now been placed in different genera.] Brown Sunbird Anthreptes gabonicus: This atypical, warbler-like sunbird was seen well at No 2 River and also on Tiwai and near Kenema. The proposed name change to Mangrove Sunbird is inappropriate as this bird is not restricted to mangroves and can be found to extend its range along rivers inside rain forest. Green Sunbird Anthreptes rectirostris: This yellow-chinned form is endemic to the Upper Guinea forests and was historically treated as a separate species. The species seemed to be most numerous at Gola North. Little Green Sunbird Anthreptes seimundi: First seen at Guma Dam, we had several chances to see this easily overlooked sunbird during the tour. The species was formerly placed in the genus Nectarinia. Fraser s Sunbird Deleornis fraseri: This normally widespread, common and easily seen forest sunbird was only found in Gola North this year. With its long and fairly straight bill it looks rather more like a warbler. The species was formerly placed in the genus Anthreptes. Green-headed Sunbird Cyanomitra verticalis: Just one male was seen at Bumbuna. The species was formerly placed in the genus Nectarinia. 22 Birdquest: Sierra Leone 2010

23 Blue-throated Brown Sunbird Cyanomitra cyanolaema: This large and usually conspicuous sunbird was first seen as we left Tiwai with more sightings in Gola East and North. The species was formerly placed in the genus Nectarinia. Western Olive Sunbird Cyanomitra obscura: This commonly seen forest sunbird was formerly lumped in Olive Sunbird Nectarinia olivacea. Although still split in lists such as Clements, it now seems that this recent split has been pronounced invalid. Buff-throated Sunbird Chalcomitra adelberti: Remarkably scarce but we first scoped this glorious Upper Guinea Forest endemic in Gola North and saw more at Bayama. Collared Sunbird Hedydipna collaris: A very common sunbird throughout the tour. The species was formerly placed in the genus Anthreptes. Olive-bellied Sunbird Cinnyris chloropygius: Widespread sightings in very small numbers on the peninsula and in the Bumbuna area. The species was formerly placed in the genus Nectarinia. Tiny Sunbird Cinnyris minullus: Males were identified at Tiwai and in Gola East and North. The species was formerly placed in the genus Nectarinia. Variable Sunbird Cinnyris venustus: Common and easy to see on the peninsula and again at Bumbuna. The species was formerly placed in the genus Nectarinia. Johanna s Sunbird Cinnyris johannae: This stunning sunbird was seen well throughout the forests. Johanna Verreaux was the wife of Jules P. Verreaux. This species was formerly placed in the genus Nectarinia. Superb Sunbird Cinnyris superbus: A male was seen at Guma Dam on 6/2 but there do not appear to be previous confirmed records for the area and the record would represent a range extension. The species was formerly placed in the genus Nectarinia. Splendid Sunbird Cinnyris coccinigaster: We saw our first glittering examples whilst on the golf course in Freetown. The species was formerly placed in the genus Nectarinia. Copper Sunbird Cinnyris cupreus: A number of moulting males were seen at Bumbuna but they were decidedly unimpressive in this plumage! The species was formerly placed in the genus Nectarinia. ZOSTEROPIDAE Yellow White-eye Zosterops senegalensis: Three were seen at Bumbuna. LANIIDAE Common Fiscal Lanius collaris: Widespread sightings throughout the tour but mainly noted on journeys. MALACONOTIDAE Grey-headed Bush-shrike Malaconotus blanchoti (H): Heard both en route to and at Bumbuna. Lagden s Bush-shrike Malaconotus lagdeni (H): A pair was heard deep inside the forests of Gola North but they could not be persuaded to respond to playback. The species is classified as Near Threatened in Birdlife International s Threatened Birds of the World. Habitat loss appears to be the major threat. Sir Geoffrey Yeatman Lagden ( ) was an English diplomat who served in South Africa, Sierra Leone, the Gold Coast (Ghana) and Basutoland (Lesotho). Many-coloured Bush-shrike Malaconotus multicolor: This variable species was seen high above our heads in Gola North where an incredibly bright red male was quite impressive. Sulphur-breasted Bush-shrike Malaconotus sulfureopectus: Singletons were seen on the Freetown golf course and again at Bumbuna. Brown-crowned Tchagra Tchagra australis (NL): Jürgen saw one at Gola East.. Black-crowned Tchagra Tchagra senegala: We all had good views as we journeyed to Bumbuna and more were seen on arrival. Sabine s Puffback Dryoscopus sabini: Great looks at a male below Guma Dam and thereafter frequently heard in the forests and glimpsed again in Gola North. 23 Birdquest: Sierra Leone 2010

24 Northern Puffback Dryoscopus gambensis: A trio was seen on the golf course in Freetown and another trio was at Bumbuna where we saw one of the excitable males puffed up like a pom-pom! Sooty Boubou Laniarius leucorhynchus: Also known as Lowland Sooty Boubou, a pair was coaxed from their hiding places in Gola East. Turati s Boubou Laniarius turatii: After missing the bird in Freetown it was a great relief to watch a pair duetting at close range en route to Bumbuna. Conte Ercole Turati ( ) was a Milanese banker and purely a collector of skins. PRIONOPIDAE White Helmet-shrike Prionops plumatus: A pair was seen well at Bumbuna. This nominate form has been historically treated as a separate species from the eastern and southern forms and was known as Straight-crested Helmet-shrike. Red-billed Helmet-shrike Prionops caniceps: These birds are always an absolute pleasure to see and a flock comprising seven birds was enjoyed on Tiwai Island. This is an Upper Guinea Forest endemic whose range extends as far as south-westernmost Cameroon. ORIOLIDAE Black-winged Oriole Oriolus nigripennis: Just one sighting was obtained at Gola North. Western Black-headed Oriole Oriolus brachyrhynchus: The white spot at the base of the primaries identified this species that was by far the most common oriole in the forests. African Golden Oriole Oriolus auratus: At least four individuals were seen at Bumbuna. DICRURIDAE Shining Drongo Dicrurus atripennis: Usually seen accompanying bird parties inside forest. Fork-tailed Drongo Dicrurus adsimilis: This species was seen in the savannahs in the Bumbuna area. Velvet-mantled Drongo Dicrurus coracinus: Widespread and easy to see in the forests. CORVIDAE Pied Crow Corvus albus: Common and widespread throughout the tour. STURNIDAE Forest Chestnut-winged Starling Onychognathus hartlaubi: A pair was seen at Tiwai and a flock of seven was found at Gola North. Copper-tailed Glossy Starling Lamprotornis cupreocauda: Small numbers of these Upper Guinea Forest endemics were seen at Gola East where we had some great scope views. The species is classified as Near Threatened in Birdlife International s Threatened Birds of the World. Habitat loss appears to be the major threat. Splendid Glossy Starling Lamprotornis splendidus: One was seen at Gola East but more were seen at Bayama and Bumbuna. Emerald Starling Lamprotornis iris: We had some amazing views of these beautiful and localised starlings at Bumbuna. The species is classified as Data Deficient in Birdlife International s Threatened Birds of the World. Violet-backed Starling Cinnyricinclus leucogaster: Also known as Amethyst or Plum-coloured Starling, small gatherings were seen at Bumbuna. PASSERIDAE Northern Grey-headed Sparrow Passer griseus: A pair was seen in the Freetown area and again at Kenema rice fields. Bush Petronia Petronia dentata: Three were seen at Bumbuna. This species is sometimes placed in the genus Gymnoris. 24 Birdquest: Sierra Leone 2010

25 PLOCEIDAE Black-necked Weaver Ploceus nigricollis: This green-backed race brachypterus, sometimes known as Swainson s Weaver, was seen well on the golf course in Freetown. Vieillot s Black Weaver Ploceus nigerrimus: Only small numbers of this weaver were noted this year. They were of the very distinctive form castaneofuscus that has been treated historically as a separate species Chestnut-and-black Weaver so may well be again someday! Louis Jean Pierre Vieillot ( ) was a French businessman forced to take refuge in the United States during the French Revolution and because of slave rebellions on San Domingo where he had his business in the spice trade. He had a consuming passion for ornithology dedicating his life to it. Village Weaver Ploceus cucullatus: An abundant weaver throughout the country. Also confusingly known as Black-headed Weaver a name usually associated with Ploceus melanocephalus. Yellow-mantled Weaver Ploceus tricolor: Good views were obtained of birds at their nests at Tiwai and again in Gola East. Maxwell s Black Weaver Ploceus albinucha: Three of these forest weavers were seen at Gola East. Sir Hubert Eustace Maxwell ( ) was a Scot, important statesman and the grandfather of Gavin Maxwell. Boyd Alexander named the species after him. Blue-billed Malimbe Malimbus nitens: Also known as Gray s Malimbe, small numbers were seen well in forests throughout the tour. Crested Malimbe Malimbus malimbicus: Just one male was seen in Gola North. Red-vented Malimbe Malimbus scutatus: Usually seen in small flocks or family parties in farmbush on the edges of the forests. Gola Malimbe Malimbus ballmanni: One of the highlights of the tour was the amazing views that we enjoyed of this colourful Upper Guinea Forest endemic in Gola North. We were taken to an area that held several nests and the birds were associating with a bird party that seemed to circulate in the area. A marvelous sight was of a pair with two fully-grown youngsters all sitting on one of the nests at the same time. Described by Wolters as recently as 1974 this bird is also known as Ballmann s Malimbe. Dr Peter Ballmann (1941-) is a German geoscientist studying fossils from Ivory Coast, one of which was amazingly the malimbe! The species occurs in Sierra Leone, Guinea, Liberia and Ivory Coast and is classified as Endangered in Birdlife International s Threatened Birds of the World. Although there were sightings in the other countries in the species range, it was only rediscovered in Sierra Leone as recently as 2007 and to this day the species remains little known. Habitat destruction appears to be the major threat as the bird seems to require primary forest, old secondary growth and only barely tolerates forests that have been logged. Red-headed Malimbe Malimbus rubricollis: Small numbers were seen at Tiwai and Gola East usually working their way along the trunks and branches. Red-headed Quelea Quelea erythrops: A large flock of non-breeding plumaged birds was seen at Bumbuna. Yellow-mantled Widowbird Euplectes macrourus: Small numbers of non-breeding plumaged birds of the mantled form were seen en route to and also at Bumbuna. ESTRILDIDAE Grey-crowned Negrofinch Nigrita canicapillus: We had many chances to get good looks of this attractive finch throughout the tour. Chestnut-breasted Negrofinch Nigrita bicolor: We had a number of chances to get good looks of this little finch throughout the forests. White-breasted Negrofinch Nigrita fusconotus: This atypical negrofinch was seen well at Gola North. This is another of those strange species that use different vocalizations between eastern and western populations that to all intents and purposes look the same. 25 Birdquest: Sierra Leone 2010

26 Crimson Seedcracker Pyrenestes sanguineus: Fantastic views of a pair of these Upper Guinea endemics early one morning in a swamp at Gola East was one of the most memorable moments of the tour. Western Bluebill Spermophaga haematina: Nik saw one fly across the road in front of the bus at Gola North. Dybowski s Twinspot Euschistospiza dybowskii: A male was seen at Bumbuna. Jan Dybowski ( ) was a French botanist and African explorer leading expeditions to Congo and Chad. Red-billed Firefinch Lagonosticta senegala: Just a few were seen en route to Bumbuna. Orange-cheeked Waxbill Estrilda melpoda: A common and attractive bird seen well at Bumbuna. Zebra Waxbill Amandava subflava: A few small flocks were seen en route to Bumbuna. Bronze Mannikin Spermestes cucullata: Commonly seen outside of the forest. The species is sometimes placed in the genus Lonchura. Black-and-white Mannikin Spermestes bicolor: Flocks were seen at Gola North, Bayama and en route to Bumbuna. The species is sometimes placed in the genus Lonchura. Magpie Mannikin Spermestes fringilloides: Seven were seen at Bumbuna. The species is sometimes placed in the genus Lonchura. VIDUIDAE Cameroon Indigobird Vidua camerunensis: At least two breeding plumaged males were identified on colour of gloss and song at Bumbuna. Unusually for an indigobird, this species parasitises Dybowski s Twinspot as well as Blue-billed and Black-bellied Firefinches and Brown Twinspot. Pin-tailed Whydah Vidua macroura: About six were seen at Bumbuna. This species parasitises waxbills and Bronze Mannikin. FRINGILLIDAE Yellow-fronted Canary Serinus mozambicus: One was seen at Bumbuna. EMBERIZIDAE Cabanis s Bunting Emberiza cabanisi: A male was seen at Bumbuna. MAMMALS Chimpanzee Pan troglodytes: We felt the presence but it was only Jürgen that caught a glimpse of an arm as the animal quickly disappeared into the forest on Tiwai Island. Western Red Colobus Piliocolobus badius: Good views were obtained on Tiwai Island and at Gola North. Western Pied Colobus Colobus polykomos: Views for some of the group on Tiwai Island. Sooty Mangabey Cercocebus atys (H): Only heard at Gola North. Callithrix Monkey Cercopithecus sabaeus: Kingdon splits the Green Monkey complex into several species and this is the form that we encountered at Tacugama and as we returned to Freetown. Diana Monkey Cercopithecus diana: We had a number of chances to see this beautiful monkey that is endemic to the Upper Guinea forests. Campbell s Monkey Cercopithecus campbelli: Kingdon splits the Mona Monkey complex into several species and this is the form that we encountered on Tiwai Island and heard at Gola North. Lesser Spot-nosed Monkey Cercopithecus petaurista: Two were scoped as we left Tiwai. Demidoff s Galago Galago demidoff (H): Heard only at night on Tiwai Island and at Gola North. Straw-coloured Fruit Bat Eidolon helvum: These large bats were seen over Tiwai and again in Freetown. Hammer Bat Hypsignathus monstrosus (H): Heard at night at Zimmi. 26 Birdquest: Sierra Leone 2010

27 Fire-footed Rope Squirrel Funisciurus pyrropus: Sightings of this colourful squirrel were obtained in Tacugama and Gola East. Red-legged Sun Squirrel Helisciurus rufobrachium: One was seen on Tiwai Island. Slender-tailed Squirrel Protoxerus aubinii: Singletons on Tiwai Island and at Tacugama. Lesser Anomalure Anomalurus pusillus: The identity of a flying squirrel seen and photographed in Gola East seems to best fit this species. The only other possibility is the larger Beecroft s Anomalure A. beecrofti. Brown Rat Rattus norvegicus: Seen running around the camp on Tiwai Island. Cusimanse Crossarchus obscurus: One was seen briefly in Gola North. African Palm Civet Nandinia binotata (H): Its mournful, repeated hooting calls were heard at night at Gola North. Western Tree Hyrax Dendrohyrax dorsalis: Its nocturnal screams were heard at Tiwai and in Gola North and one was seen briefly at Tacugama. Maxwell s Duiker Cephalophus maxwelli (H): One was heard in Gola North. 27 Birdquest: Sierra Leone 2010

28 (left to right) Yellow-headed Picathartes (Picathartes gymnocephalus), Gola Malimbe (Malimbicus ballmanni) photo from 2008, Emerald Starling (Lamprotornis iris), Crimson Seedcracker (Pyrenestes sanguineus), Egyptian Plover (Pluvialis aegyptius), Turati s Boubou (Laniarius turatii). 28 Birdquest: Sierra Leone 2010

29 Colourful additions to the list: (left to right) Black Bee-eater (Merops gularis), Blue-bellied Roller (Coracias cyanogaster), Blue-throated Roller (Eurystomus gularis), Broad-billed Roller (Eurystomus glaucurus). 29 Birdquest: Sierra Leone 2010

30 Upper Guinea Specialties: (left to right) Grey-headed Bristlebill (Bleda canicapillus), Finsch s Flycatcher Thrush (Stizorhina finschi), Yellow-bearded Greenbul (Criniger olivaceus), Red-vented Malimbe (Malimbicus scutatus). 30 Birdquest: Sierra Leone 2010

31 (left to right) Chattering Cisticola (Cisticola anonymus), Brown Sunbird (Anthreptes gabonicus), Rock Pratincole (Glareola nuchalis), Black-and-white Flycatcher (Bias musicus), Malachite Kingfisher (Alcedo cristata), Western Bronze-naped Pigeon (Columba iriditorques), White-throated Blue Swallow (Hirundo nigrita). (All photos taken on tour by Nik Borrow) 31 Birdquest: Sierra Leone 2010