Classic Colombia 2020 reports - BIRDQUEST · 2020. 12. 10. · 3 BirdQuest Tour Report: Classic...

1 BirdQuest Tour Report: Classic Colombia 2020 www.birdquest-tours.com

The stunning Buffy Helmetcrest was one of the many great endemics we encountered on this fabulous tour! (Chris Venetz)

CLASSIC COLOMBIA

22 FEBRUARY – 15 MARCH 2020

LEADERS: CHRIS VENETZ and TREVOR ELLERY The 2020 Birdquest Classic Colombia continued the run of previous successful tours, and was once again another memorable birding adventure in this incredible bird-rich country. With nearly 1900 species, Colombia is simply home to more species of birds than any other country in the world and firmly established as a premier birding destination in South America. Besides the greatest list, Colombia also holds an extraordinary set of endemics, as well as plenty of other range-restricted species shared with neighbour countries, and this definitely kept us busy every day throughout this incredible tour! The main reason behind such a high rate of endemism is due to the effect that here in Colombia the Andes split into three slopes, isolating two major valleys and their associated endemics, while the northern part of the country also holds the famous Santa Marta Mountains, a completely isolated mountain range where another great number of endemics are found. The excellent birding infrastructures, some super friendly and excellent local guides, as well as the great


conservation movement simply added a very pleasant side during our daily quest for these special birds. We crossed a wide range of habitats spanning from wetlands in the Carribean coast, to arid scrubs in the Guajira Peninsula, to rich Andean foothill forest (including the Choco bioregion), to the spectacular paramo of the High Andes and also to the unique tropical forest of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. This year, our quest for the special birds throughout all these different habitats resulted in an impressive total of 727 species (including some heard only). Amongst these, we hit on a great number of our Birdquest “diamond” birds including 51 strict Colombian endemics. The list of highlights is a long one, but if I were to mention the best, one of the first things that comes to mind is certainly the extreme diversity of antpittas we encountered with a total of 13 species seen, including endemic Hooded, Brown-banded and Santa Marta Antpittas, while other range-restricted ones also stole the show, such as Crescent-faced (which was eventually chosen as “Bird-of-the-trip”), Bicolored, Moustached, Chestnut-naped, Rusty-breasted and Slaty-crowned Antpitta. A huge diversity of hummingbirds also kept us busy with excellent sightings of numerous endemic species like Green-bearded and Buffy Helmetcrests, Santa Marta Blossomcrown, Santa Marta Woodstar, Black-backed Thornbill, White-tailed Starfrontlet, Black-thighed Puffleg and even the critically endengered Sapphire-bellied Hummingbird. Endemic parrots were also well represented with Fuerte’s Parrot, Rufous-fronted Parakeet, Yellow-eared Parrot and Santa Marta Parakeet, while near-endemics Saffron-headed Parrot, Spectacled Parrotlet and Golden-plumed Parakeet were also well seen. Other notable endemics included Chestnut-winged Chachalaca, Colombian Chachalaca, Cauca Guan, Bogota Rail, Tolima Dove, Santa Marta Screech Owl, Greyish Piculet, Beautiful Woodpecker, Santa Marta Foliage-gleaner, Rusty-headed Spinetail, Silvery-throated Spinetail, Streak-capped Spinetail, Santa Marta Antbird, Parker’s Antbird, Magdalena Antbird, Tatama Tapaculo, Stile’s Tapaculo, Brown-rumped Tapaculo, Antioquia Bristle Tyrant, Santa Marta Bush Tyrant, Apical Flycatcher, Apolinar’s Wren, Antioquia Wren, Hermit Wood-wren, Munchique Wood-Wren, Sierra Nevada Brushfinch, Santa Marta Brushfinch, Yellow-headed Brushfinch, Bronze-brown Cowbird, Red-bellied Grackle, Santa Marta Warbler, White-lored Warbler, Yellow-crowned Whitestart, Sooty Ant-Tanager, Crested Ant-Tanager, Black-and-gold Tanager, Gold-ringed Tanager, Santa Marta Mountain Tanager, Turquoise Dacnis and Chestnut-bellied Flowerpiercer, simply to give a hint of what an extremely birdy country is!

Although not an endemic, this absolutely stunning Crescent-faced Antpitta was voted bird of the tour! (Chris Venetz)


This successful tour started with an early visit to the wild windswept Paramo of Sumapaz National Park. We began birding around a couple of high elevation lakes which were exhibiting unusually low water levels. These low levels worked to our advantage, as we quickly found a very obliging Bogota Rail feeding in a narrow channel. We enjoyed quite a show from this often tricky endemic and followed it with great views of several rather confiding Noble Snipe. This intricately patterned wader has a restricted range in northern South America and is best found in the Bogota area, but even here it can be tricky to catch up with. The nearby bamboo produced several Apolinar’s Wrens, of the hernandezi subspecies, while commoner species around the lakes included plentiful Andean Teal (of the andium subspecies, which is sometimes known as Merida Speckled Teal) and a couple of Greater Yellowlegs. We then spent some time searching for the endemic Green-bearded Helmetcrest and eventually enjoyed great looks at several individuals, including a male showing off its green beard. We were also lucky in picking up a selection of key furnarids with Andean Tit-Spinetail, Many-striped Canastero and White-chinned Thistletail all showing well. We also found the endemic Silvery-throated Spinetail and a near endemic Pale-bellied Tapaculo gave good views. Commoner species included Scarlet-bellied and Buff-breasted Mountain Tanagers and a Tawny-rumped Tyrannulet. Another scan of the nearby lake produced Andean Duck and a couple of American Coots, while the bushes held some obliging White-throated Tyrannulets and delightful Rufous-browed Conebills. A couple of Streak-throated Bush Tyrants were a bonus and we also found some Brown-backed Chat-Tyrants and a few Plumbeous Sierra Finches. Brown-bellied Swallows were watched hawking overhead and the single mammal highlights were the fairly common Brazilian Guinea pigs. We then continued on to a slightly different area where we managed to locate Red-rumped Bush Tyrant (a rare species in Colombia), Chestnut-winged Cinclodes and a very obliging Tawny Antpitta (of the alticola subspecies, which is sometime split as Northern Tawny Antpitta). A single Black-chested Buzzard-Eagle was also seen soaring over the Paramo. In the afternoon a visit to a forest site near Bogota was made impossible due to persistent heavy rain, as we had to go back to the hotel in the end.

Green-bearded Helmetcrest was nicely seen on the first day. (Trevor Ellery)


The next day we dropped down to the foothills of the Magdalena valley and birded the remnant forest patches around the Pedro Palo lagoon. We soon found our main target there, the handsome Turquoise Dacnis, with a smart male showing well. Other species included Andean Guan, while hummers in the forest were represented by Crowned Woodnymph, White-booted Racket-tail and Steely-vented Hummingbird. The mixed flocks held Red-headed Barbet, White-throated Toucanet and Red-crowned, Acorn and Smoky-brown Woodpeckers. Furnarids were again well represented with Montane Foliage-gleaner and both Ash-browed and the skulking Stripe-breasted Spinetail. We also found Montane Woodcreeper, Golden-faced Tyrannulet, Yellow-olive Flatbill, Piratic Flycatcher, White-winged Becard, both Rufous-browed and Black-billed Peppershrikes, Brown-capped Vireo and Rufous-naped Greenlet. Blue-and-white Swallows were common overhead, while Grey-breasted Wood Wrens skulked in the understorey and we enjoyed multiple Swainson’s and Black-billed Thrushes. Several Moustached Bruhfinches were much appreciated, while warblers included Black-and-white, Blackburnian, American Yellow and Canada, along with our first Slate-throated Whitestarts and Tropical Parula. Tanagers were also well represented with Summer, Crimson-backed, Blue-grey, Palm, Fawn-breasted, Bay-headed, Scrub, Metallic-green, Blue-necked and Black-capped, all being seen well. We then visited some feeders at Chicaque Park where Lesser Violetears were common and after quite some wait we managed to see a dazzling female Golden-bellied Starfrontlet. We also noted Buff-tailed Coronet, the smart Collared Inca, Tourmaline Sunangel and Glowing Puffleg. In the afternoon we stopped at some dry forest in the lowlands of the Magdalena Valley. Birding along a quiet road here produced both Smooth and Groove-billed Anis, the endemic Velvet-fronted Euphonia, a very obliging Dwarf Cuckoo, a fantastic pair of Pearl Kites and plentiful scolding Tropical Gnatcatchers. We also found our first Bicolored Wrens and Fork-tailed Flycatchers and both Mouse-coloured Tyrannulet and Scrub Greenlet. A single Lesser Yellow-headed Vulture was watched quartering the fields, while some scrub produced Rufous-tailed Jacamar, the near-endemic Spectacled Parrotlet, Barred Antshrike, Greenish and Yellow-bellied Elaenias, Masked Tityra and a couple of Grey Pileated Finches.

A cracking Pearl Kite and a very obliging Dwarf Cuckoo from Coello. (Trevor Ellery)


Our third day involved a pre-dawn walk up to the wonderful Ukuku lodge in the central Andes. Here we received a warm reception and were safely positioned with steaming cups of Colombian coffee to watch the dawn rise and hope for the appearance of a very special bird. We weren’t to be disappointed as soon after first lights several Tolima Doves appeared and came to feed on seed that had been spread on the lawn for them. After enjoying stunning views of this enigmatic species we then spent some time in the garden where the endemic Yellow-headed Brushfinch showed well. We also added Bar-crested Antshrike, Pale-edged Flycatcher, Inca Jay, White-naped Brushfinch, Yellow-backed Oriole, Tooth-billed Tanager. Rusty Flowerpiercer, Buff-throated, Streaked and Black-winged Saltators and Yellow-faced and Dull coloured Grassquits. The hummer feeders in the garden were busy and produced White-necked Jacobin, Sparkling Violetear, Andean Emerald, Fawn-breasted Brilliant and Indigo-capped Hummer. The nearby flowers were also popular and added Western Emerald and Purple-throated Woodstar. The walk back down added a fine pair of Torrent Ducks along with Torrent Tyrannulet and White-capped Dipper, while Chestnut-collared and White-tipped Swifts were seen soaring overhead. As we left the Hotel a pair of Andean Motomots were seen well roadside. We then made a brief visit to the Ibague botanical garden and a nearby lunch spot, where we added White-vented Plumleteer, Sooty-headed Tyrannulet, Forest Elaenia, Southern Beardless Tyrannulet, Ochre-bellied Flycatcher, Cinereous Becard, Pale-breasted Thrush, Bay-breasted and Rufous-capped Warblers, American Redstart, White-shouldered Tanager and Yellow-tufted Dacnis. The afternoon was mainly taken up with the long drive over the central Andes to our next destination Otun.

Two endemics from Ukuku Lodge, the enigmatic Tolima Dove and the localized Yellow-headed Brushfinch. (Trevor Ellery)

We made an early start at Otun but our road was blocked by a fallen tree, so we had to improvise and begin birding up the road. This was very productive as we soon found a group of the endemic Chestnut Wood Quail, which dashed across the road giving superb views. Cauca Guans were plentiful and we also enjoyed good looks at the rare Wattled Guan and saw our first Sickle-winged Guan. Hummers in the forest included Speckled Hummingbird, Bronzy Inca and White-throated Wedgebill. We also found a couple of Collared Trogon, a nice group of White-capped Parrots and some great groups of Golden-plumed Parakeet. Woodcreepers were represented by Strong-billed and Olive-backed, while the mixed flocks also held Streaked Xenops and Red-faced and Azara’s Spinetails. A skulking Stiles’s Tapaculo was glimpsed in the undergrowth and a good selection of flycatchers included Variegated and Marble-faced Bristle Tyrants, Rufous-breasted Flycatcher, Rufous-crowned Tody-Flycatcher and Ashy-headed Tyrannulet. We continued birding down the road adding plentiful Red-ruffed Fruitcrow and a female Andean Cock-of-the-rock. A migrant Yellow-throated Vireo was a surprise while skulking Chestnut-breasted Wren was much appreciated. Some confiding Chestnut-capped Brushfinches were watched foraging along the road and we also added Russet-crowned Warbler and three superb and endemic Crested Ant Tanagers. Diligent searching of the flocks produced Multicolored Tanager, while around the lodge we found Flame-rumped Tanager. We also saw the first of several nice groups of


Colombian Red Howler Monkeys. In the evening a spot of Owling produced good views of Rufescent Screech Owl and Mottled Owl and we also added a Lowland Paca crossing the road. A final surprise was a Crimson-rumped Toucanet we found asleep on its night time roost.

Clockwise from top: the incredible Red-ruffed Fruitcrow; Rufescent Screech Owl; the cracking Crested Ant Tanager. (Trevor Ellery)

The next morning, we made a return trip to El Cedral where we were successful in locating the diminutive Hooded Antpitta. We also enjoyed both Moustached and Chestnut-crowned Antpittas as they fed along the road at dawn. Sickle-winged Guans were much more plentiful and we then birded down the road adding Parker’s Antbird, Streak-capped Treehunter, White-crowned Tapaculo, Green Hermit, Golden-headed Quetzal, Greyish Piculet, Black-banded Woodcreeper, Plain Antvireo, Slaty-capped Flycatcher, Slaty-backed Nightingale-Thrush, Pale-eyed Thrush, Ashy-throated Bush Tanager, Oleaginous Hemispingus, Plumbeous-crowned Tyrannulet, Three-striped Warbler and White-capped Tanager.


The incredible Hooded Antpitta was undoubtedely a trip highlight! (Trevor Ellery)

The following morning, we climbed back high in to the Central Andes and spent some time at a stakeout for the critically endangered Fuertes’s Parrot. After quite some wait we had flight views of a single individual. Other species we also found here included Mountain Avocetbill, Purple-backed Thornbill, Rufous-breasted Chat-Tyrant, Red-crested Cotinga and Black-billed Mountain Toucan. Further hummers included Mountain Velvetbreast, Sword-billed Hummingbird and Tyrian Metaltail, while some mixed flocks produced Pearled Treerunner, Black-capped Tyrannulet, Smoky Bush Tyrant, Mountain Wren, Hooded and Andean Siskins, a nice male Chestnut-breasted Chlorophonia, Slaty Brushfinch, Black-crested Warbler, Golden-fronted Whitestart, Superciliaried Hemispingus, Blue-backed Conebill and both Black and White-sided Flowerpiercers. In the afternoon we continued on to Rio Blanco where, after quite some searching, we managed scope views of the scarce Masked Saltator. Other species we found here in the late afternoon included White-throated Toucanet (but this time of the Grey-throated grisegularis form), Crimson-mantled Woodpecker, Streaked Tuftedcheek, Flavescent Fycatcher, Green-and-black Fruiteater, Saffron-crowned Tanager, Blue-and-black Tanager and several Andean Squirrels.

The uncommon Mountain Avocetbil was another great bird at Santa Rosa! (Trevor Ellery)


The next day we left our hotel quite early and drove to highest part of Nevado del Ruiz National Park in order to start birding at dawn. As soon as we left the bus, we found a few Stout-billed Cinclodes on the main track, quickly joined by a nice Tawny Antpitta. As the sun rose in the horizon, we encountered more species including a male Plumbeous Sierra Finch, a pair of Grass Wrens and a confinding Pale-naped Brushfinsh. We then reached the park heardquarters and quickly found our main target here, the Buffy Helmetcrest. We had amazing views of this cracker as it perched right in front of us! Another important endemic in the bag! On the way back to the bus, we picked up more views of Andean Tit-Spinetail, Brown-backed Chat-Tyrant and Plain-colored Seedeater. Back in the bus, we drove back the main road and stopped at a nearby cliff in the hope to see another key bird, the rare Rufous-fronted Parakeet. We were very fortunate to find a group of this endemic cutie, which allowed us prolonged views. Fantastic! On the road again, we stopped at a charming restaurant for a coffee break and even there, we were distracted by new birds as we located our only Andean Lapwing of the trip. Later, some more roadside birding in the park provided the scarce Crowned Chat-Tyrant, three Black-chested Buzzard-Eagles soaring overhead, a Viridian Metaltail, a confiding Paramo Seedeater and more views of several White-throated Tyrannulets and Golden-fronted Whitestarts.

Another view of the incredible Buffy Helmetcrest and the endemic Rufous-fronted Parakeet. (Chris Venetz)


We then drove towards the famous Hotel Thermales and on the way we picked up Paramo Tapaculo, which gave good views for everybody after some efforts. We had lunch there and then spent some time at the feeders which attracted Mountain Velvetbreast, Golden-breasted Puffleg, Shining Sunbeam, Buff-winged Starfrontlet and Great Sapphirewing. We had to wait a bit before a Black-thighed Puffleg came to join the hummingbird feast. We then birded the road below the hotel, which proved to be quite birdy. First a Black-chested Mountain Tanager showed off, followed by a very obliging Crowned Chat-Tyrant and a few Golden-crowned Tanagers. We had better views of a Black-thighed Puffleg which perched at almost touching distance. Other good stuff included a few Blue-backed Conebills, several Purple-backed Thornbills, a couple of Hooded Mountain Tanagers and our only White-banded Tyrannulet and Aplomado Falcon of the trip. It started to rain and it was time to drive back to our hotel in Manizales. We made a last productive stop and picked up our last good bird of the day in a mixed flock, the highly distinctive Black-backed Bush Tanager.

Hummingbirds from the feeders at Thermales. Clockwise from top left: Golden-breasted Puffleg; Buff-winged Starfrontlet; Great

Sapphirewing and Shining Sunbeam. (Chris Venetz)


The near-endemic Black-thighed Puffleg was better seen on the road below Thermales than on the feeders. (Chris Venetz)

A very obliging Crowned Chat-Tyrant from Thermales. (Chris Venetz)


The following day, we had a predawn start at Rio Blanco, where we had great views of the cracking White-throated Screech Owl. We then enjoyed a nice breakfast in the park, where we also had our initial exploration, at the hummingbird feeders. These feeders prove to be good as we connected with Long-tailed Sylph, Bronzy Inca, Fawn-breasted Brilliant, more Tourmaline Sunangels, a few Speckled Hummingbirds and lots of Buff-tailed Coronets. Following the breakfast, accompanied by our enthusiastic local guide, we embarked upon a memorable antpitta quest, which saw us enjoying fantastic views of four species in just a few hours! We started with the rare and endemic Bicolored Antpitta, which quickly performed nicely. We then walked to the next feeding spot and on the way we found a productive hemispingus flock which included Black-capped, Black-eared, Oliagenous and Superciliated Hemispingus. Arriving at the next station, the Anpitta feast continued with Brown-banded Antpitta already waiting for us! We watched it for a while, when a cracking Chestnut-crowned Antpitta joined the party. Both species gave us sensational views and we then moved to the last feeding station. On our way, we were distracted by a great mixed flock which included the stunning Plushcap, and also Crimson-mantled Woodpecker, Pale-edged Flycatcher, Grey-hooded Bush Tanager, Pearled Treerunner, Blue-winged Mountain Tanager, Metallic-green and Grass-green Tanagers, Tyrannine Woodcreeper, Capped Conebill, Cinnamon Flycatcher, Streaked Xenops and the same species of hemispingus we had just seen before. Slaty-crowned Antpitta showed brilliantly to conclude our great antpitta quest, and we then went birding in the highest part of the reserve. We soon found more goodies including the excellent Bar-bellied Woodpecker, the much-wanted Ocellated Tapaculo, a few more Golden-plumed Parakeets, Ash-colored Tapaculo, a group of Black-collared Jays and some vocal White-tailed Tyrannulets, all showing well. After lunch, we birded the lower part of the reserve, but the activity was very low. We eventually found a few new birds for the list such as Striated Treehunter and Streak-headed Antbird. We finally spent the last hours again in the upper part of the reserve where we concluded the excellent birding at Rio Blanco with Glossy-backed Thrush, Blackish Tapaculo, Powerful Woodpecker and Citrine Warbler. When we reached Hotel Thermales, it was dinner and checklist time!

This White-throated Screech Owl was a nice appetizer before starting with Antpittas at Rio Blanco. (Chris Venetz)


Here starts the Antpitta feast… First with the Bicolored Antpitta perfroming exceedingly well. (Chris Venetz)

The Brown-banded Antpitta is probably not the best looker but this endemic species was high in the wish list. (Chris Venetz)


The Slaty-crowned Antpitta was one of the favourite during our Antpitta quest in Rio Blanco. (Chris Venetz)

Chestnut-crowned Antpitta also performed very well! (Chris Venetz)


The next day we visited the incredible Hacienda El Bosque and spent the full morning in this newly built reserve. Accompanied by our excellent local guides, we started the morning with great views of a vocal Rufous Spinetail and a nice Barred Fruiteater. But the main attractions here were once again... antpittas! We went to the first feeding station where we had an appointment with the Rufous Antpitta. There, some Grey-browed Brushfinches were the first to show off and a bit of patience was needed before the Rufous Antpitta also performed nicely. We then walked to the next feeding station and we found on the way our only Grey-breasted Mountain Toucan on the tour. Arriving at the next feeding station, our main quarry was already waiting for us, and we have amazing views of two stunning Crescent-faced Antpittas. Although not being a strict Colombian endemic, it always remains a big favourite and was later elected the bird of tour! What a brilliant bird!

Rufous Antpitta (top) and the striking Crescent-faced Antpitta to keep on the Antpitta’s theme. (Chris Venetz)


After a nice coffee break, we started our longish drive to the Choco region, and our base at the fine Montezuma lodge. We arrived at the lodge just in time to have our first look at the hummingbird feeders. Purple-bibbed Whitetipp, Rufous-gaped Hillstar, Western Emerald, Steely-vented Hummingbird, Empress Brilliant, Green-crowned Brilliant, Tawny-bellied Hermit, Violet-tailed Sylph, White-booted Racket-tail, Green Thorntail, Purple-throated Woodstar, Black-throated Mango, White-necked Jacobin and Rufous-tailed Hummingbird, all showed well and kept us busy for the rest of day.

Purple-throated Woodstar (left) and Rufous-gaped Hillstar where omnipresent on the feeders at Montezuma Lodge. (Chris Venetz)

We had two full days and an early morning to explore this fantastic Choco forest. On the first day, we had a predawn departure from the lodge in order to reach the highest altitudes at first lights, and later we descended along the main road and spent the full day searching for our targets at different elevations. Our excellent local guide was ready and waiting for us before dawn and we quickly started to hit the road in our 4WD vehicles. After about an hour of drive, we made a first stop at a specific place where we found our first Choco specialty, the much-wanted Tanager Finch. Arriving at the highest altitude, our main target was the endemic Chestnut-bellied Flowerpiercer, which showed very well after a bit of patience. We then started our descent and stopped for breakfast at some nice hummingbird feeders. There, we could nicely watch the stunning colors of the Velvet-purple Coronet, while a first endemic Gold-ringed Tanager was spotted on a nearby tree. After breakfast, we continued descending the main road and as we entered some proper highland forest, the next species we had in mind was another endemic, the Munchique Wood-Wren. It didn’t take too long before we had excellent looks at two tame individuals. As we continued to reach lower elevations, more excellent species were added to the list such as Streak-headed Antbird, Dusky Bush Tanager, Greenish Puffleg, Purplish-mantled Tanager, Bluish Flowerpiercer, Chestnut-bellied Chlorophonia, while Choco Brushfinches moved noisly through the undergrowth. It was hot and sunny, and the activity quite low when we came across two Swallow-tailed Nightjars roosting along the road. We barely walked a hundred meters again and we heard the typical call of a White-faced Nunbird in the distance, but despite hard work this one never showed off as it is often the case with this species. After lunch, we kept on exploring the mid-elevation forests and had to battle to find more birds as the deep fog prevented us to have good visibility. But thankfully, we eventually connected with more goodies like Black Solitaire, Yellow-collared Chlorophonia, glimpse of Brown-billed Sicklebill, Dusky Leaftosser, Orange-breasted Fruiteater, Narino Tapaculo and Pacific Tuftedcheek. Still lower, we found the near-endemic Club-winged Manakin and a very vocal Buff-fronted Foliage-gleaner. Later we encountered a last rewarding mixed flock which included Flame-faced, Glistering-green and Rufous-throated Tanager before heading back to the Lodge. We ended the day with excellent views of roosting two Tropical Screech Owls just next to the lodge.


A few highlights from the amazing Montezuma Road. Clockwise from top left: Munchique Wood Wren; Choco Brushfinch; Gold-ringed Tanager: Chestnut-breasted Chlorophonia and the much-wanted Purplish-mantled Tanager. (Chris Venetz)


The plan of the second and last full day was basically to pick up the remaining targets that still missed to our list. And we did pretty well as we eventually got nearly all the targets we needed. We birded the same road and started at mid-elevations. It was raining this morning, but the activity was good and we stated with better views of a Black Solitaire, whilst Brown Inca, Indigo Flowerpiercer, Handsome Flycatcher, Toucan Barbet, Fulvous-dotted Treerunner, Spotted Barbtail, all showed very well one after the other. As we kept descending the road, we then found a nice Yellow-vented Woodpecker and the uncommon Golden-winged Manakin. We needed to fight a bit before we had a response from a Tatama Tapaculo, which afterwards, approached very close and gave us decent views. We concluded the morning session with excellent views of a Scaled Fruiteater. We then had lunch by a stream, where the excellent Olive Finch showed superbly well. Following lunch, we heard lower down the road the call of a Uniform Treehunter, which cooperated nicely and allowed us good views, while the elusive Bicolored Antbird also eventually showed off. During the remaining afternoon, it was again sunny and the activity low, but we concluded our excellent day at lower altitudes with Choco Tapaculo, Slaty-headed Wren, Black Hawk-Eagle, Lemon-browed Flycatcher and Ochre-breasted Tanager. The next day, we spent the early morning birding around the lodge. We had better views of a Bar-crested Antshrike previously glimpsed earlier in the trip, while more goodies were seen such as Slaty Spinetail, Black-winged Saltator and and we concluded our wonderful time in Montezuma with the excellent Moustached Puffbird. We couldn’t stay too much time in the area as we had a long drive to Jardin and we needed to arrive on time at the lek of the Andean Cock-of-the rock. On the road, we were stuck into frequent and longish roadworks and stoppages, but we eventually arrived by late afternoon at Jardin and enjoyed a real spectacular show with many incredible of these “fireballs” displaying at almost touching distance! The lek is undoubtedly one of the best (if not the best) of all known leks and we knew it was already a tour highlight at this stage of the trip! There, we were also rewarded by the endemic Red-breasted Grackle, which brilliantly showed on the nearby feeders just to conclude this memorable experience.

The emblematic Andean Cock-of-the-rock displaying at the famous lek in Jardin. (Chris Venetz)


We set off early in our jeeps the following morning and made our way up to a specific open area into the Pro Aves Reserve. It was still dark when we arrived and two Rufous-bellied Nighthawk flew around. Very soon the calls of the Yellow-eared Parrots rang out and we picked up the first flight views in the distance. But the light was still poor and it was challenging to see much of the plumage’s details. As the sun raised in the horizon, we saw more of them flying around and it looked as we are going to have only flight views when a few parrots eventually landed on nearby Palm tree, allowing us to enjoy nice scope views of this endemic parrot. We then drove to another area to search for the Chesnut-crested Cotinga, which was thankfully found rather quickly. We enjoyed this special species in some nice light conditions before we headed to the nearby Antpitta feeders. There we enjoyed brilliant views of a Chesnut-naped Anpitta, just to keep growing our big Antpitta list. We had lunch at Bolombolo, and birded in the early afternoon in a nearby spot to find more much-wanted species. It was very hot, but thankfully, we found all our primary targets around with excellent views of three endemics, Antioquia Wren, Apical Flycatcher and Colombian Chachalaca. We spent the remaining part of the day driving to Rio Claro, our next destination.

Clockwise from top: Chestnut-naped Antpitta from Jardin; the endemic Antioquia Wren from Bolombolo and the highly-desired Chestnut-crested Cotinga. (Chris Venetz)


We had a full day and and a full morning to find our targets in the humid and hot Rio Claro, which is situated at about 600 meters above see level, meaning that the birds we are looking for are mostly lowlands specialities. We started birding at the Aquitania road, a spot closeby the reserve itself and we quickly found our first important endemic, the Sooty Ant Tanager. The next species we found in the area were Black-chested Jay, Striolated Manakin, Olivaceous Piculet, Yellow-crowned Tyrannulet, Dot-winged Antwren, Golden-hooded Tanager, Orange-crowned Oriole, and also picked up with our second much-wanted endemic, the White-mantled Barbet. We then birded inside the Reserve and here we took a trail which also proved to be rather productive. As we walked up, we connected with a good bird wave which included Dusky-faced Tanager, Slaty-winged Foliage-gleaner, Tawny-crested Tanager, Checker-throated Antwren, Bare-crowned Antbird, Plain-colored Tanager, Olivaceous Flatbill, Southern Bentbill, Broad-billed Motmot and our first Fuvlous-vented Euphonia. Further up the trail, we found our next endemic, the Magdalena Antbird, which simply cooperated as we hoped for. On the way down, we eventually found our third endemic of the area, the Beautiful Woodpecker, alongside with a pair of Barred Puffbirds. Lunch was spent in the main restaurant of the park while the activity was a bit lower. In the afternoon, we ventured along a stream that leads to the famous Oilbird cave outside of the reserve, where we had fantastic views of these bizarre species. Hearing the loud call of these frugivore nightbirds in the dark is a pretty amazing experience for sure! We spent the remaing part of the afternoon birding around the cave, and although the activity was quite low, we added a few more goodies to our list such as Pacific Antwren, Black-capped Pygmy-Tyrant, Black-headed Tody-Flycatcher, White-tailed Trogon and Chestnut-headed Oropendola. At dusk we headed back to the reserve and tried for some owling and we were rewarded with a cracking Choco Screech Owl, which performed very well!

The monotypic and bizzare-looking Oilbird is certainly one of the main highlights at Rio Claro. (Chris Venetz)

The aim of our last morning at Rio Claro was pretty clear, finding the remaining targets missed the previous day! Very soon we managed to locate the Rufous-winged Shiffornis, which was heard only in the distance the day before. And from that moment, everything just went as it should be when sudently, our parrot-man Helge brilliantly spotted a superb Saffron-headed Parrot in a nearby tree, which allowed excellent scope views. This elusive parrot could be pretty though, so it was good to get it at this stage! The next species we found was the Antioquia Bristle Tyrant, which was our last important endemic of the area and it showed off pretty well for the delight of our group after struggling for it the day before. The Grey-cheeked Nunlet was the other bird which we tried hard for, and once again, we continued the run of this successful morning by finally finding our bird. Other birds we found this morning included Band-backed Wren, Bay Wren, Chestnut-backed Antbird, One-colored Becard, Greater Ani and Scarlet-browed Tanager amongst others. We enjoyed a nice lunch in the park with the nice feelings of achievement before our longish drive to Medelin.


The “big five” endemics from Rio Claro. Clockwise from top: White-mantled Barbet; Magdalena Antbird; Antioquia Bristle Tyrant; Beautiful Woodpecker and Sooty Ant Tanager. (Chris Venetz)


A few more highlights from the Rio Claro Reserve. Clockwise from top: the rare Grey-cheeked Nunlet; a fine male Bare-crowned Antbird and a nice Broad-billed Motmot. (Chris Venetz)

Today, we started our second main part of the tour as we flew to Santa Marta in the north. Our flight was scheduled from Medelin in the late morning, but we had an important mission before getting to the airport. We visited early this morning La Romera Reserve in the hope to see the rare Yellow-headed Manakin. After some time, we finally found a fine male and everybody managed to see this rare and localized species. After this successful start, we drove to the airport and took our quick flight to Santa Marta for the final part of the tour.


The rare Yellow-headed Manakin at La Romera was seen well before our flight to Santa Marta! (Chris Venetz)

It was lunch time when we arrived at the Santa Marta airport along the arid Carribean coast. After lunch, we met our drivers and 4WD vehicules and headed towards the El Dorado Lodge in the famous Santa Marta Mountains, where a great set of endemics were waiting for us. But on the way, we made a serie of good stops, the first at the specific location above Minca where we easily found a cracking Golden-winged Sparrow. We then followed our quest for the endemics and our second stop provided us good views of at least three Santa Marta Antbird. In the area, other good birds included Rosy Thrush-Tanager, White-lored Warbler, Band-tailed Guan, Scaled Pigeon, Yellow-legged Thrush amongst others. We then made another stop higher up on the road where picked up the endemic Santa Marta Woodstar. We waited until dark and tried for a first attempt for the recently described Santa Marta Screech Owl. The species is getting unfortunately overtaped in the area and thus more difficult as it used to be, but we were fortunate to enjoy nice views of this screech on the first evening. We eventually arrived at the Lodge and enjoyed our sweet dinner.

This Golden-winged Sparrow was a nice found on the way to El Dorado Lodge. (Chris Venetz)


The next morning, we left the lodge very early in order to get to the highest part of the reserve pretty much at dawn. On the way, we found along the San Lorenzo Ridge a nice Stygian Owl, sitting in the valley. Next we drove to our breakfast spot, a specific place where the much-wanted Santa Marta Parakeet is regularly seen. And from here the endemics just started to show off one after the other. First, a couple of Santa Marta Brushfinches came very close, whilst the rare Black-backed Thornbill posed for some quick scope views next to us. Later, while we were watching a very vocal and showy Flamulated Treerunner, we heard the call of two Santa Marta Parakeets flying towards us and they eventually perched on a closeby tree! Happy to have this one so quickly in the bag, we then birded around and found more goodies like Streak-capped and Rusty-headed Spinetails, Santa Marta Mountain Tanager, Yellow-bellied Chat-Tyrant, Santa Marta Warbler, Yellow-crowned Whitestart and White-tailed Starfrontlet. We started heading back to the lodge and it took some efforts before we managed to all have good views of the localized Brown-rumped Tapaculo. We also spent some time searching for the Santa Marta Bush Tyrant, but it remained nowhere to be seen. We made a last good stop before the lodge and we pick up the excellent White-tipped Quetzal, whilst a female Golden-breasted Fruiteater was also seen on its nest, thanks to one of our driver who found it before our arrival in El Dorado. After lunch we spent birding the area around the lodge, enjoying the feeders and the nearby trails. Along the trails, we added Lined Quail-Dove to the list, while Sierra Nevada Brushfinches playing hide-and-sick in the understory were also finally located. We also found a male Golden-breasted Fruiteater, the powerfull Strong-billed Woodcreeper, the local form of White-throated Toucanet and a final Lazuline Sabrewing at the feeders to conclude this good day.

The endemic Santa Marta Parakeet is certainly one of the big highlights in the Santa Marta Mountains. (Chris Venetz)

The next morning, we started by trying a Black-fronted Wood Quail at dawn which we heard calling the day before at dusk in the surroundings of the lodge. We suspected the bird to roost around, so we knew our chance was fairly good. At dawn, the wood quail immediately responded and we all had brilliant views of it. It was nice to see it like this since they seem to be less regular than they used to be on the feeders. We then drove towards the San Lorenzo Station for our special appointement with the endemic Santa Marta Antpitta, but before we had a bit of time to search for other good stuff around. We quickly found a couple Hermit Wood-wren, Golden Grosbeak or the local form of Black-throated Tody-Tyrant. The Antpitta show didn’t disappointed and we spent the remaining part of the day focusing on the lower altitudes specialities. By reaching some lower altitudes, we first found a Yellow-billed Toucanet and then made a stop at a specific garden. It tooks a little while before our main quarry, the Santa Marta Blossomcrown made its apparition. We then spent lunch in front of some other nearby flowers which produced a Coppery Emerald. In the afternoon, we found more of our targets including Santa Marta Tapaculo, Santa Marta Foliage-gleaner, Scaled Piculet, although the Rusty-breasted Antpitta took some effort to see well.


A few highlights from the Santa Marta Mountains. Clockwise from top; Santa Marta Brushfinch; White-tipped Quetzal and Santa Marta

Antpitta. (Chris Venetz)


A few more highlights from the Santa Marta Mountains. Clockwise from top left; The tricky Santa Marta Bush Tyrant; Santa Marta Foliage-gleaner; Santa Marta Blossomcrown; Santa Marta Mountain Tanager. (Chris Venetz)

For the next day, our plan was to hit the road again to reach the highest parts of the mountains. There was still one important bird missing to our list, the Santa Marta Bush Tyrant. It demanded a lot of patience, but eventually we heard its call before we all had excellent views of this endemic. Mission accomplished, we drove back to our Lodge for lunch and it was already time to leave this fantastic place. On our way to the next destination, we made a serie of good stops which produced Rufous-and-white Wren, Rufous-breasted Wren, Coopmans’s Tyrannulet and a superb Black-and-white Owl roosting in the town of Minca. The last hour of birding was spent at the excellent hummingbird feeders of our hotel, where we could add the Pale-bellied Hermit to our list amongst others goodies like Steely-vented Hummingbird and White-vented Plumeleeter.


A fine White-vented Plumeleteer from our hotel in Minca. (Chris Venetz) We started this day birding in the area of Minca and enjoyed our early breakfast in front of a nice colony of Military Macaws. We birded in the same spot for the rest of the morning and found some good stuff including Pale-eyed Pygmy-Tyrant, Black-backed Antshrike, Fringe-backed Antwren, Golden-fronted Greenlet, Bright-rumped Attila, Plain-brown Woodcreeper, Grey-headed Kite, Red-legged Honeycreeper and the stunning Lance-tailed Manakin. We then enjoyed lunch in our Hotel in Minca before heading to Los Gaviotas for our next birding stop. There, we succeeded in finding the much-wanted White-bellied Antbird, a few Virinid Euphonia, the skulking Buff-breasted Wren and a fine White-necked Puffbird. Later, we drove further along the coast and reached our hotel close to the Guajira Peninsula.

Lance-tailed Manakin and Grey-headed Kite. (Chris Venetz)

We had a full day to explore the dry and arid Guajira Peninsula where a number of specialities are shared with adjascent Venezuela. We were out early the following morning and met our excellent local guide. Our first stop quickly produced goodies such as the fine Russet-throated Puffbird, Rufous-vented Chachalaca, Red-billed Emerald, Sapphire-throated Hummigbird, Black-crested Antshrike, Pale-tipped Inezia, Tawny-crowned Pygmy-Tyrant and Chestnut Piculet. But the main reason of this first stop was the skulking Tocoyo Sparrow which was first only seen by a few members of the group. We then moved on to another spot, but on the way, a handy stop produced a pair of Double-striped Thick-knee. At the next spot, we added more specialities like our first Vermilion Cardinal, the gorgeous White-whiskered Spinetail, a Slender-billed Inezia and a conspicuous Pearly-vented Tody-Tyrant. But best of all there were the much better views of the tricky Tocoyo Sparrow and more or less the job was done. We enjoyed a fine lunch and later explored the nearby laguna and added a few more widespread water species to our list like the monotypic Limpkin, Wilson’s and Collared Plover, Reddish Egret, Royal and Cabot’s Tern, Scarlet Ibis, Roseate Spoonbill to only name a few. A good part of


the afternoon was spent at some feeders providing stunning views of Orinoco Saltator, a pair of Vermillion Cardinal, the localized Buffy Hummingbird and Black-faced Grassquit. Some more exploration in the area produced a nice Glaucous Tanager, a bizzare-looking Bare-eyed Pigeon, some showy Caribean Horneros, excellent looks at several Green-rumped Parrotlets and Blue-crowned Parakeets, a nice Crane Hawk, whilst a few Lesser Nighthawks were seen flying around at dusk to wrap up this excellent day. Our last dinner was much appreciated at our comfortable hotel before our final day.

Both male (above) and female of the Vermillion Cardinal were seen very well in the Guajira Peninsula. (Chris Venetz)


More nice species from the Guajira Peninsula. Clockwise from top: Orinoco Saltator; Buffy Hummingbird; Red-billed Emerald (female);

Black-crested Antshrike; Tocuyo Sparrow. (Chris Venetz)


For our final morning we were up early and heading for the Baranquilla area. On the way, we made a first stop and our main target species, the endemic Chestnut-winged Chachalaca, was seen very well in the first light. When we arrived at the car park in the Salamanca NP, we soon located a male Sapphire-bellied Hummingbird – one of the rarest and poorly known Colombian endemics. We walked for a while in the mangroves where we could add a few more goodies to the list such as Bicolored Conebill, Prothonotary Warbler, Pied Puffbird, Panamanian Flycatcher, Northern Waterthrush, American Pygmy Kingfisher, the rare Golden-green Woodpecker and even the tricky Bronze-brown Cowbird (another endemic). We were on the road again and then set about exploring a nearby road. Here we found Northern Screamer, Stripe-backed Wren, Snail Kite, Limpkin amongst others. It was then time to reach Baranquilla, having a fresh shower and enjoy a last lunch at a nice restaurant, reflecting back on what was undoubtedly a succesful tour in one of the top birding destinations in the world.

Our last three endemics from the last morning. Clockwise from top: Chestnut-winged Chachalaca; Bronze-brown Cowbird and Sapphire-bellied Hummingbird. (Chris Venetz)


Watching Andean Cock-of-the-rock like this at Jardin was definitely a tour highlight! (Chris Venetz)

SYSTEMATIC LIST OF SPECIES RECORDED DURING THE TOUR The species names and taxonomy used in the report mostly follows Gill, F & D Donsker (Eds). 2019. IOC World Bird List

(v 9.2). This list is updated several times annually and is available at http://www.worldbirdnames.org. Species which were heard but not seen are indicated by the symbol (H). Species which were only recorded by the leader are indicated by the symbol (LO). Species which were not personally recorded by the leader are indicated by the symbol (NL). Species marked with the diamond symbol (◊) are either endemic to the country or local region or considered ‘special’ birds for some other reason (e.g. it is only seen on one or two Birdquest tours; it is difficult to see across all or most of its range; the local form is endemic or restricted-range and may in future be treated as a full species). All of our checklists are powered by our partner iGoTerra (www.igoterra.com) who provide web and mobile applications for bird and wildlife enthusiasts and businesses. Their suite of services cover observations, rankings, lists, photos and trip management tools.


Little Tinamou Crypturellus soui Heard a few times at Rio Claro Chestnut-winged Chachalaca ◊ Ortalis garrula Excellent views near to La Elisa. Endemic Rufous-vented Chachalaca Ortalis ruficauda A few seen near to Ebanal, Guajira Peninsula Colombian Chachalaca ◊ Ortalis Columbiana First near to Bolombolo and then a few at La Romera. Endemic Band-tailed Guan ◊ Penelope argyrotis Regularly seen at El Dorado Lodge, Santa Marta Mountains. Andean Guan ◊ Penelope montagnii A single was seen well at Pedro Palo. Cauca Guan ◊ Penelope perspicax Multiple sightings at Otun Quimbaya. Endemic Wattled Guan ◊ Aburria aburri A single was seen at Otun Quimbaya. Sickle-winged Guan ◊ Chamaepetes goudotii Commonly encountered throughout the tour. Black-fronted Wood Quail ◊ Odontophorus atrifrons Nice looks at one at El Dorado Lodge, Santa Marta Mountains. Chestnut Wood Quail ◊ Odontophorus hyperythrus Seen on both days at Otun Quimbaya. Endemic Northern Screamer Chauna chavaria Two birds were seen on the KM4 near to Baranquilla.

Northern Screamer was nicely seen on the last morning. (Chris Venetz)

Torrent Duck Merganetta armata Great views of a pair on the hike back down from Ukuku. Blue-winged Teal (W) Spatula discors Seen at Los Camarones (Guajira Peninsula) and at the KM 4 (Baranquilla). Andean Teal ◊ (Merida Speckled T) Anas [andium] altipetens A few were seen at Sumapaz. Andean Duck Oxyura ferruginea Two were seen at Sumapaz. Oilbird ◊ Steatornis caripensis Brilliant views at the Oilbird cave near to Rio Claro. Superb! Lesser Nighthawk Chordeiles acutipennis A few seen at dusk near to Puente Bomba, Guajira Peninsula. Rufous-bellied Nighthawk ◊ Lurocalis rufiventris Nice views of two birds flying at Jardin. Pauraque Nyctidromus albicollis Seen at Rio Claro and a few more birds heard throughout the tour. Band-winged Nightjar Systellura longirostris Seen at Jardin and at San Lorenzo, Santa Marta Mountains. Swallow-tailed Nightjar Uropsalis segmentata Excellent views of two roosting along the Montezuma road. Chestnut-collared Swift Streptoprocne rutila First at Ukuku, then and a few in the Santa Marta Mountains. White-collared Swift Streptoprocne zonaris Common throughout the tour. Short-tailed Swift Chaetura brachyura A few seen at Las Gaviotas. White-tipped Swift Aeronautes montivagus Fifteen were seen overhead at Ukuku. Lesser Swallow-tailed Swift Panyptila cayennensis Nice views of a few two at Las Gaviotas.


Rufous-breasted Hermit (Hairy H) Glaucis hirsutus Regularly seen at Rio Claro, also one at Las Gaviotas. Green Hermit Phaethornis guy A single was briefly seen below Otun Quimbaya. Long-billed Hermit (Western Long-tailed H) Phaethornis longirostris Seen at Rio Claro, then in the Santa Martas. Tawny-bellied Hermit ◊ Phaethornis syrmatophorus First at Hacienda El Bosque, then along the Montezuma road. Pale-bellied Hermit Phaethornis anthophilus Great views on the feeders at Minca, also in the Guajira Peninsula. Green-fronted Lancebill ◊ Doryfera ludovicae Single seen along the Montezuma road. Lazuline Sabrewing ◊ Campylopterus falcatus Excellent views of one on the feeders at El Dorado Lodge. White-necked Jacobin Florisuga mellivora Quite common on various feeders, especially in Montezuma. Brown Violetear Colibri delphinae Common on the feeders at El Dorado Lodge, Santa Marta Mountains. Lesser Violetear Colibri cyanotus Common on the feeders at Chicaque, Ukuku, Rio Blanco and at El Dorado Lodge. Sparkling Violetear Colibri coruscans First at Ukuku, then also seen at Rio Blanco. Black-throated Mango Anthracothorax nigricollis Single seen at the Montezuma Ecolodge. Green Thorntail Discosura conversii Seen on the feeders at the Montezuma Ecolodge. Western Emerald ◊ Chlorostilbon melanorhynchus A couple at Ukuku, hten a single at Otun Quimbaya. Red-billed Emerald ◊ Chlorostilbon gibsoni Two sightings near to Ebanal and at Los Camarones, Guajira Peninsula. Coppery Emerald ◊ Chlorostilbon russatus Single seen at Bellavista, Santa Marta Mountains. Crowned Woodnymph ◊ (Violet-crowned W) Thalurania [colombica] colombica At Pedro Palo. Then at El Dorado. Crowned Woodnymph ◊ (Green-crowned W) Thalurania [colombica] fannyae Seen on the feeders at Montezuma. Sapphire-throated Hummingbird Lepidopyga coeruleogularis Single near to Ebanal, Guajira Peninsula. Sapphire-bellied Hummingbird ◊ Lepidopyga lilliae Excellent views of one at Isla de Salamanca. Endemic Buffy Hummingbird ◊ Leucippus fallax Seen at Mar Azul feeding station, Guajira Peninsula. Rufous-tailed Hummingbird Amazilia tzacatl Common at various locations, first at Montezuma Ecolodge. Andean Emerald ◊ Amazilia franciae A couple on the feeders at Ukuku, Then also at Montezuma. Steely-vented Hummingbird Amazilia saucerottei First at Pedro Palo, then also at Montezuma and at Minca. Indigo-capped Hummingbird ◊ Amazilia cyanifrons A single on the feeders at Ukuku. Santa Marta Blossomcrown ◊ Anthocephala floriceps A female seen at Bellavista, Santa Marta Mountains. Endemic White-vented Plumeleteer Chalybura buffonii First at the Ibague botanical garden, then at Rio Claro and at Minca. Speckled Hummingbird Adelomyia melanogenys First at Otun Quimbaya, then at Rio Blanco and at Montezuma. Fawn-breasted Brilliant ◊ Heliodoxa rubinoides A single at Ukuku, then a couple on the feeders at the Montezuma. Green-crowned Brilliant Heliodoxa jacula Seen on the feeders at Montezuma Ecolodge. Empress Brilliant Heliodoxa imperatrix A few seen on various feeders at Montezuma. Rufous-gaped Hillstar ◊ Urochroa bougueri Regularly noticed at Montezuma. See Note. Buff-tailed Coronet ◊ Boissonneaua flavescens Regularly seen. First at Chicaque. Velvet-purple Coronet ◊ Boissonneaua jardini A few sightings along the Montezuma road. Shining Sunbeam ◊ Aglaeactis cupripennis Many stunners on the feeders at Hotel Thermales. Mountain Velvetbreast Lafresnaya lafresnayi First at Santa Rosa, then at Hotel Thermales and at San Lorenzo. Bronzy Inca Coeligena coeligena It was seen on both days at Otun Quimbaya. Brown Inca ◊ Coeligena wilsoni Single seen along the Montezuma road. Collared Inca Coeligena torquata First at Chicaque, then also at Rio Blanco and at Montezuma. White-tailed Starfrontlet ◊ Coeligena phalerata Excellent views at San Lorenzo, Santa Marta Mountains. Endemic Golden-bellied Starfrontlet ◊ Coeligena bonapartei A single on the feeders at Chicaque. Buff-winged Starfrontlet Coeligena lutetiae A few on the feeders at Hotel Thermales. Sword-billed Hummingbird Ensifera ensifera First seen above Santa Rosa, then also Hacienda El Bosque. Great Sapphirewing Pterophanes cyanopterus A few seen on the feeders at Hotel Thermales. Tourmaline Sunangel ◊ Heliangelus exortis Common at Santa Rosa and at Rio Blanco. Glowing Puffleg ◊ Eriocnemis vestita A single on the feeders at Chicaque. Black-thighed Puffleg ◊ Eriocnemis derbyi Seen on the feeders at Hotel Thermales and one nearby on the road. Golden-breasted Puffleg ◊ Eriocnemis mosquera Seen on the feeders at Hotel Thermales. Greenish Puffleg ◊ Haplophaedia aureliae Seen along the Montezuma road. Purple-bibbed Whitetip ◊ Urosticte benjamini Seen on the feeders at Montezuma Ecolodge. White-booted Racket-tail Ocreatus underwoodii First seen at Pedro Palo, then on the feeders at Montezuma. Black-backed Thornbill ◊ Ramphomicron dorsale Excellent looks at one along the San Lorenzo Ridge. Endemic Purple-backed Thornbill ◊ Ramphomicron microrhynchum First at Santa Rosa, then also below Hotel Thermales. Green-bearded Helmetcrest ◊ Oxypogon guerinii Three birds were seen at Sumapaz


Some hummers encountered during the trip. Clockwise from top: White-tailed Starfrontlet (female); Steely-vented Hummigbird; Lesser Violetear; Brown Violetear; (Violet-) Crowned Woodnymph. (Chris Venetz)


A few more hummingbirds. Clockwise from top: Tourmaline Sunangel; Mountain Velvetbreast; Coppery Emerald (female); Rufous-tailed Hummingbird; Long-tailed Sylph. (Chris Venetz)


Buffy Helmetcrest ◊ Oxypogon stuebelii Brilliant views at this stunner at Nevado del Ruiz. Tyrian Metaltail Metallura tyrianthina Seen at Santa Rosa, at Nevado del Ruiz and in the Santa Martas. See Note. Viridian Metaltail Metallura williami Seen at Nevado del Ruiz and at Hacienda El Bosque. Rainbow-bearded Thornbill ◊ Chalcostigma herrani Seen on the feeders at Hotel Thermales. Mountain Avocetbill ◊ Opisthoprora euryptera A single gave superb views above Santa Rosa. Long-tailed Sylph Aglaiocercus kingii Excellent views at Rio Blanco. Violet-tailed Sylph ◊ Aglaiocercus coelestis Excellent views at Montezuma. White-throated Wedgebill Schistes albogularis Seen at Otun Quimbaya and at Rio Blanco. Purple-crowned Fairy Heliothryx barroti Two birds seen at Rio Claro. Long-billed Starthroat Heliomaster longirostris Brief views of one for some on the Las Cavanas road, near to Minca. Purple-throated Woodstar ◊ Calliphlox mitchellii Seen in the garden at Ukuku and on the feeders at Montezuma. White-bellied Woodstar ◊ Chaetocercus mulsant First at Ukuku, Then above Santa Rosa, and also at Rio Blanco. Santa Marta Woodstar ◊ Chaetocercus astreans Excellent views of a female at Bellavista, Santa Marta Mountains. Greater Ani Crotophaga major Good views at Rio Claro. Smooth-billed Ani Crotophaga ani Common and widespread throughout the tour. Groove-billed Ani Crotophaga sulcirostris Small numbers roadside at Coello. Then in the Guajira Peninsula. Striped Cuckoo Tapera naevia (H) Heard distantly in the Guajira Peninsula. Pavonine Cuckoo Dromococcyx pavoninus (H) Heard along the Montezuma road. Dwarf Cuckoo ◊ Coccycua pumila Fantastic views of a single at Coello. Squirrel Cuckoo Piaya cayana First seen at Ukuku, the also at Minca. Rock Dove (introduced) Columba livia Common. Introduced. Scaled Pigeon Patagioenas speciose First near to Rio Claro and a few on the road to El Dorado lodge. Bare-eyed Pigeon ◊ Patagioenas corensis Good views at Ebanal, Guajira Peninsula. Band-tailed Pigeon Patagioenas fasciata Common at higher altitudes. Pale-vented Pigeon Patagioenas cayennensis (H) Hear near to Minca and at Las Gaviotas Plumbeous Pigeon Patagioenas plumbea One seen along the Montezuma road and a few more heard. Ruddy Pigeon Patagioenas subvinacea (H) Heard at Montezuma. Scaled Dove Columbina squammata A few seen along the Caribbean coast

Scaled Pigeon feeding on a fruiting tree in the Santa Marta Montains. (Chris Venetz)


Common Ground Dove Columbina passerina A couple seen near to Rio Claro and one seen at Los Camarones. Ruddy Ground Dove Columbina talpacoti Seen almost daily in the first part of the tour at lower elevations. White-tipped Dove Leptotila verreauxi First seen at Pedro Palo, then at El Dorado and in the Guajira Peninsula. Tolima Dove ◊ Leptotila conoveri Five in the garden at Ukuku. A trip highlight! Endemic White-throated Quail-Dove ◊ Zentrygon frenata (H) Heard at Montezuma. Lined Quail-Dove ◊ Zentrygon linearis A few seen around El Dorado Lodge and one along the San Lorenzo ridge. Eared Dove Zenaida auriculata Common throughout the tour. Bogota Rail ◊ Rallus semiplumbeus A single showed very well at Sumapaz on our first morning. Endemic Grey-necked Wood Rail Aramides cajaneus Seen at Otun Quimbaya, then also at Rio Claro. Blackish Rail Pardirallus nigricans (H) Heard around the Montezuma Ecolodge. Purple Gallinule (American P G) Porphyrio martinica Seen at Los Camarones and at the KM4, near Baranquilla. Common Gallinule Gallinula galeata Seen at Los Camarones and at the KM4, near Baranquilla. American Coot Fulica americana A couple at Sumapaz and common on the lagoon at Pedro Palo. Limpkin Aramus guarauna Seen at Los Camarones and at the KM4, near Baranquilla. Double-striped Thick-knee Burhinus bistriatus Excellent views near to Los Camarones, Guajira Peninsula.

A pair of Double-striped Thick-knee from Los Camarones. (Chris Venetz)

Black-necked Stilt Himantopus mexicanus A few birds noticed at the KM4, near Baranquilla. Southern Lapwing Vanellus chilensis Common and widespread throughout the tour. Andean Lapwing Vanellus resplendens Seen near to Nevado del Ruiz. Grey Plover (Black-bellied P) Pluvialis squatarola Seen at Los Camarones, Guajira Peninsula. Semipalmated Plover Charadrius semipalmatus Seen at Los Camarones, Guajira Peninsula. Wilson's Plover (Thick-billed P) Charadrius wilsonia One seen at Los Camarones, Guajira Peninsula. Collared Plover Charadrius collaris One seen at Los Camarones, Guajira Peninsula. Wattled Jacana Jacana jacana Many seen at Los Camarones and at the KM4, near Baranquilla. Whimbrel (Hudsonian W) Numenius [phaeopus] hudsonicus One seen at Los Camarones, Guajira Peninsula. Ruddy Turnstone Arenaria interpres A few seen near to Isla Salamanca NP. Sanderling Calidris alba Seen along the coast at Los Camarones and near to Isla Salamanca NP. Least Sandpiper Calidris minutilla Seen at Los Camarones and near to Isla Salamanca NP. Semipalmated Sandpiper Calidris pusilla Single seen at Los Camarones, Guajira Peninsula. Western Sandpiper Calidris mauri Four birds noticed at Los Camarones, Guajira Peninsula. Noble Snipe ◊ Gallinago nobilis Five were seen at Sumapaz and heard pre-dawn above Santa Rosa. Spotted Sandpiper (W) Actitis macularius Seen at Los Camarones and at the KM4, near Baranquilla. Solitary Sandpiper Tringa solitaria Seen at Los Camarones and at the KM4, near Baranquilla. Lesser Yellowlegs Tringa flavipes Seen at Los Camarones and near to Isla Salamanca. Willet (Eastern W) Tringa [semipalmata] semipalmata Seen at Los Camarones and near to Isla Salamanca NP. Greater Yellowlegs Tringa melanoleuca First seen at Sumapaz, then also seen in the Guajira Peninsula.


Black Skimmer Rynchops niger Two birds seen at Los Camarones, Guajira Peninsula. Laughing Gull (W) Leucophaeus atricilla Several seen at Los Camarones and near to Isla Salamanca NP. Franklin's Gull Leucophaeus pipixcan One at Los Camarones and one near to Isla Salamanca NP. Caspian Tern Hydroprogne caspia (LO) One on the road to Isla Salamanca NP. Royal Tern Thalasseus maximus Plenty seen along the Caribbean coast. Cabot's Tern Thalasseus acuflavidus A few seen at Los Camarones and near to Isla Salamanca NP. Common Tern Sterna hirundo One on the road to Isla Salamanca NP. Wood Stork Mycteria americana Three birds seen near to Los Camarones, Guajira Peninsula. Magnificent Frigatebird Fregata magnificens Common along the Caribbean coast. Neotropic Cormorant Phalacrocorax brasilianus Small numbers seen on the tour. First at Pedro Palo. Bare-faced Ibis (Whispering) Phimosus infuscatus Many sightings throughout the tour. American White Ibis Eudocimus albus Several seen at Los Camarones and a few at the KM4, near Baranquilla. Scarlet Ibis Eudocimus ruber A few birds seen at Los Camarones, Guajira Peninsula. Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus A couple seen at the KM4, near Baranquilla

Roseate Spoonbill Platalea ajaja A few birds seen at Los Camarones, Guajira Peninsula. Bare-throated Tiger Heron Tigrisoma mexicanum Excellent views of one at Isla Salamanca. Black-crowned Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax Seen at Los Camarones, Guajira Peninsula. Yellow-crowned Night Heron Nyctanassa violacea Single seen at Los Camarones, Guajira Peninsula. Striated Heron Butorides striata A few seen at Isla Salamanca NP. Western Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis Common and widespread throughout the tour. Great Blue Heron Ardea herodias Single at Los Camarones, Guajira Peninsula. Cocoi Heron (White-necked H) Ardea cocoi Seen at the KM4, near Baranquilla. Great Egret Ardea alba Noted at Los Camarones and near to Isla Salamanca NP. Reddish Egret Egretta rufescens A couple seen at Los Camarones, Guajira Peninsula. Tricolored Heron Egretta tricolor A couple seen near to Isla Salamanca NP. Little Blue Heron Egretta caerulea Seen at Los Camarones and one near to Isla Salamanca NP. Snowy Egret Egretta thula Many seen along the Caribbean coast. Brown Pelican Pelecanus occidentalis Common along the Caribbean coast. Turkey Vulture Cathartes aura Common and widespread throughout the tour. Lesser Yellow-headed Vulture Cathartes burrovianus Seen in the Guajira Peninsula and at the KM4, Baranquilla. Black Vulture Coragyps atratus Common and widespread throughout the tour. King Vulture Sarcoramphus papa Single seen near to Minca. Western Osprey (W) Pandion haliaetus Regularly noted, first near to Minca. White-tailed Kite Elanus leucurus A couple on the drive to Ibague. Pearl Kite Gampsonyx swainsonii Two showed very well at Coello. Grey-headed Kite Leptodon cayanensis Two birds seen along the Las Cavanas road, near to Minca. Swallow-tailed Kite (American S-t K) Elanoides forficatus Regularly seen during the tour, first at Montezuma. Black Hawk-Eagle Spizaetus tyrannus Excellent views at Montezuma. Plain-breasted Hawk Accipiter ventralis Seen on the San Lorenzo Ridge. Plumbeous Kite Ictinia plumbea Great views near to Minca. Snail Kite Rostrhamus sociabilis Several seen at the KM4, near Baranquilla. Crane Hawk Geranospiza caerulescens Two birds seen near to Puenta Bomba. Common Black Hawk Buteogallus anthracinus A couple seen along the Las Cavanas road, near to Minca Savanna Hawk Buteogallus meridionalis One bird seen near to Puenta Bomba. Barred Hawk Morphnarchus princeps One was seen along the Montezuma road. Roadside Hawk Rupornis magnirostris Regular sightings throughout the trip. Harris's Hawk (Bay-winged H) Parabuteo unicinctus One seen near to Los Camarones, Guajira Peninsula. White-rumped Hawk ◊ Parabuteo leucorrhous Single seen near to Bellavista, Santa Marta Mountains. Black-chested Buzzard-Eagle Geranoaetus melanoleucus Three birds seen at Nevado del Ruiz. Grey-lined Hawk Buteo nitidus One seen at Ebanal, Guajira Peninsula. Broad-winged Hawk (W) Buteo platypterus Regular sightings throughout the tour. Short-tailed Hawk Buteo brachyurus First at Ukuku, then also at Rio Claro. Zone-tailed Hawk Buteo albonotatus One bird was seen along the Las Cavanas road, near to Minca. Tropical Screech Owl Megascops choliba Excellent views at a roosting birds at Montezuma and at Jardin.


Some owls encountered during the trip. Clockwise from top: Choco Screech Owl at Rio Claro; Black-and-white Owl roosting at Minca;

Santa Marta Screech Owl from El Dorado. (Chris Venetz)

Rufescent Screech Owl ◊ (Colombian S O) Megascops [ingens] colombianus Great views at Otun Quimbaya. Choco Screech Owl ◊ Megascops centralis Great views at Rio Claro. White-throated Screech Owl ◊ Megascops albogularis Fantastic views of this stunner at Rio Blanco. Santa Marta Screech Owl ◊ Megascops gilesi Great looks at a rufous morph near to the El Dorado Lodge. Endemic Mottled Owl Strix virgata One was seen well at Otun Quimbaya. Rufous-banded Owl Strix albitarsis (H) Heard distantly in Rio Blanco, but no luck despite long try. Black-and-white Owl ◊ Strix nigrolineata Excellent looks at a roosting bird at Minca. Spectacled Owl Pulsatrix perspicillata (H) Heard at Otun Quimbaya. Andean Pygmy Owl ◊ Glaucidium jardinii (H) Heard distantly in Jardin.


Cloud-forest Pygmy Owl ◊ Glaucidium nubicola (H) Heard distantly a couple of times at Montezuma. Ferruginous Pygmy Owl Glaucidium brasilianum (H) Heard along the Las Cavanas road, near to Minca Stygian Owl Asio stygius Good views along the San Lorenzo Ridge, Santa Marta Mountains. Golden-headed Quetzal Pharomachrus auriceps A male seen at Otun Quimbaya, a few more heard. White-tipped Quetzal ◊ Pharomachrus fulgidus Excellent views at the El Dorado Lodge, Santa Marta Mountains. White-tailed Trogon (Western W-t T) Trogon chionurus Seen at Rio Claro. Gartered Trogon (Northern Violaceous T) Trogon caligatus Seen at Rio Claro. Collared Trogon Trogon collaris A couple seen on both days at Otun Quimbaya. Masked Trogon Trogon personatus (H) Remained a heard only at Hacienda El Bosque. American Pygmy Kingfisher Chloroceryle aenea Single seen at Isla Salamanca NP.

More stunners. Clockwise from top: American Pygmy Kingfisher; Whooping Motmot; Rufous-tailed Jacamar. (Chris Venetz)


Nice collection of Puffbirds. Clockwise from top: Russet-throated Puffbird; White-necked Puffbird; Moustached Puffbird; Pied Puffbird;

Barred Puffbird. (Chris Venetz)


Green Kingfisher Chloroceryle americana One bird at Los Camarones and one at Isla Salamanca NP.Amazon Kingfisher Chloroceryle amazona Single at the KM4, near to Baranquilla. Ringed Kingfisher Megaceryle torquata One seen at Rio Claro, then at Los Camarones. Whooping Motmot ◊ Momotus subrufescens Few birds seen around Minca, then at Las Gaviotas. Andean Motmot (Highland M) Momotus aequatorialis Commonly encountered in the Andes, first at Ukuku. Rufous Motmot Baryphthengus martii (H) Heard around the Oilbird cave, near to Rio Claro. Broad-billed Motmot Electron platyrhynchum Excellent views of one at Rio Claro. Rufous-tailed Jacamar Galbula ruficauda First seen at Coello, then also at Minca and at Las Gaviotas. White-necked Puffbird Notharchus hyperrhynchus Great views of one at Las Gaviotas. Pied Puffbird Notharchus tectus Excellent views of one at Isla Salamanca NP. Barred Puffbird ◊ Nystalus radiates Seen very well at Rio Claro. Russet-throated Puffbird ◊ Hypnelus ruficollis Excellent views in the Guajira Peninsula, then at KM4, Baranquilla. White-whiskered Puffbird Malacoptila panamensis (H) Heard only on the Aquitania road, near Rio Claro. Moustached Puffbird ◊ Malacoptila mystacalis Excellent views around the Montezuma Ecolodge. Grey-cheeked Nunlet ◊ Nonnula frontalis Brilliant views at Rio Claro. White-faced Nunbird ◊ Hapaloptila castanea (H) Remained a heard only at Montezuma despite long try. White-mantled Barbet ◊ Capito hypoleucus Great views on the Aquitania road and at Rio Claro. Red-headed Barbet ◊ Eubucco bourcierii Several sightings throughout the tour. Toucan Barbet ◊ Semnornis ramphastinus Good scope views along the Montezuma road. White-throated Toucanet ◊ (Santa Marta T) Aulacorhynchus [albivitta] lautus A few seen around El Dorado Lodge. White-throated Toucanet ◊ (Grey-throated T) Aulacorhynchus [albivitta] griseigularis Seen at Rio Blanco. White-throated Toucanet ◊ Aulacorhynchus [albivitta] albivitta Seen well at Pedro Palo. Groove-billed Toucanet ◊ (Yellow-billed T) Aulacorhynchus [sulcatus] calorhynchus Two seen below Bellavista. Crimson-rumped Toucanet ◊ Aulacorhynchus haematopygus Seen twice at Otun Quimbaya. Collared Aracari Pteroglossus torquatus A few seen at Rio Claro. Grey-breasted Mountain Toucan ◊ Andigena hypoglauca Excellent views of two at Hacienda El Bosque. Black-billed Mountain Toucan ◊ Andigena nigrirostris Excellent views at Rio Blanco. Keel-billed Toucan Ramphastos sulfuratus Seen below Bellavista and around Minca. Yellow-throated Toucan (Chestnut-mandibled) Ramphastos [ambiguus] swainsonii Nice views at Rio Claro.

Grey-breasted Mountain Toucan (Trevor Ellery) and Black-billed Mountain Toucan (Chris Venetz)


Scaled Piculet Picumnus squamulatus Excellent views below Bellavista. Olivaceous Piculet Picumnus olivaceus A couple were seen at Rio Claro. Greyish Piculet ◊ Picumnus granadensis A single was seen along the road below Otun Quimbaya. Endemic Chestnut Piculet ◊ Picumnus cinnamomeus Excellent looks at one at Ebanal, Guajira Peninsula. Acorn Woodpecker Melanerpes formicivorus Seen at Pedro Palo, alos at Ukuku and at Jardin. Beautiful Woodpecker ◊ Melanerpes pulcher Great views of this endemic at Rio Claro. Endemic Red-crowned Woodpecker Melanerpes rubricapillus First at Pedro Palo, also at Rio Claro and in the Guajira Pen. Yellow-vented Woodpecker ◊ Veniliornis dignus Nice views of one along the Montezuma road. Bar-bellied Woodpecker Veniliornis nigriceps Single seen at Rio Blanco. Red-rumped Woodpecker Veniliornis kirkii A couple were nicely seen at Rio Claro. Smoky-brown Woodpecker Leuconotopicus fumigatus A couple seen well at Pedro Palo. Golden-green Woodpecker Piculus chrysochloros One was seen at Isla Salamanca NP! Golden-olive Woodpecker Colaptes rubiginosus Regularly seen throughout the tour, first at Montezuma. Crimson-mantled Woodpecker Colaptes rivolii Excellent views of this stunner at Rio Blanco.

A few woodpeckers. Clockwise from top: Scaled Piculet; Yellow-vented Woodpecker; Crimson-mantled Woodpecker. (Chris Venetz)


Spot-breasted Woodpecker Colaptes punctigula Single seen at the KM4, near to Baranquilla. Cinnamon Woodpecker Celeus loricatus A couple were seen at Rio Claro. Lineated Woodpecker Dryocopus lineatus Regularly noted, first at Pedro Palo. Powerful Woodpecker Campephilus pollens Two birds seen at Rio Blanco. Crimson-crested Woodpecker Campephilus melanoleucos Great views at Rio Claro. Northern Crested Caracara (Northern C) Caracara cheriway Regularly encountered, first at Hacienda El Bosque. Yellow-headed Caracara Milvago chimachima Regular sightinghs on the tour. Laughing Falcon Herpetotheres cachinnans One was seen near to Los Camarones, Guajira Peninsula. Barred Forest Falcon Micrastur ruficollis (H) Heard at Otun Quimbaya. American Kestrel Falco sparverius A few sightings on the tour, First at Coello. Aplomado Falcon Falco femoralis One was seen near the Hotel Thermales. Merlin Falco columbarius Seen along the San Lorenzo road, Santa Marta Mountains. Peregrine Falcon (W) Falco peregrinus One was seen along the San Lorenzo Ridge, Santa Marta Mountains. Rufous-fronted Parakeet ◊ Bolborhynchus ferrugineifrons Great views at Nevado del Ruiz! Superb! Endemic Orange-chinned Parakeet Brotogeris jugularis Regularly noticed in the last part of the tour, first at Rio Claro. Saffron-headed Parrot ◊ Pyrilia pyrilia Brilliant views at two birds in Rio Claro. Nice spotting Helge! Fuertes's Parrot ◊ Hapalopsittaca fuertesi One was seen in the Santa Rosa area. Endemic Red-billed Parrot Pionus sordidus Regularly noted in the Santa Marta Mountains. White-capped Parrot Pionus seniloides Small flocks at Otun Quimbaya and also seen at Santa Rosa. Blue-headed Parrot Pionus menstruus Seen at Montezuma and near to Bolombolo. Bronze-winged Parrot Pionus chalcopterus Small numbers at Otun Quimbaya, then also at Santa Rosa. Yellow-crowned Amazon (Y-c Parrot) Amazona ochrocephala Couple seen at the Oilbird cave, near to Rio Claro. Scaly-naped Amazon (S-n Parrot) Amazona mercenarius First at Otun Quimbaya and along the San Lorenzo Ridge. Green-rumped Parrotlet Forpus passerinus A few birds seen well near to Ebanal, Guajira Peninsula. Spectacled Parrotlet ◊ Forpus conspicillatus A few seen at Coello and at Ibague, then also on the drive to Jardin. Santa Marta Parakeet ◊ Pyrrhura viridicata Great views along the San Lorenzo Ridge, Santa Martas. Endemic Brown-throated Parakeet Eupsittula pertinax Brief views in the Guajira Peninsula, then great views near Baranquilla. Military Macaw Ara militaris Excellent scope views at about 60 near to Minca. Golden-plumed Parakeet ◊ Leptosittaca branickii Several flocks at Otun Quimbaya, Santa Rosa and Rio Blanco. Yellow-eared Parrot ◊ Ognorhynchus icterotis Nice scope views at two at Jardin. Fantastic experience! Endemic Blue-crowned Parakeet Thectocercus acuticaudatus Excellent views at a stakeout near to Puente Bomba. Scarlet-fronted Parakeet Psittacara wagleri Seen at Montezuma and in the Santa Marta mountains.

Blue-headed Parrot from the Guajira Peninsula and Scarlet-fronted Parakeet from the Santa Marta Mountains. (Chris Venetz)


Dusky Leaftosser ◊ Sclerurus obscurior Good views of one in Montetzuma. Grey-throated Leaftosser Sclerurus albigularis (H) Heard around El Dorado Lodge. Tyrannine Woodcreeper Dendrocincla tyrannina One was nicely located in a mixed flock at Rio Blanco. Plain-brown Woodcreeper Dendrocincla fuliginosa Single along the Las Cavanas road, near to Minca. Wedge-billed Woodcreeper Glyphorynchus spirurus At least two birds were seen in Rio Claro. Black-banded Woodcreeper Dendrocolaptes picumnus A pair was seen at Otun Quimbaya. Strong-billed Woodcreeper Xiphocolaptes promeropirhynchus First at Otun Quimbaya, then at El Dorado. Cocoa Woodcreeper Xiphorhynchus susurrans Seen at Rio Claro. Olive-backed Woodcreeper Xiphorhynchus triangularis A single seen at Otun Quimbaya. Straight-billed Woodcreeper Dendroplex picus Regularly noticed in the last part of the trip, first at Minca. Brown-billed Scythebill Campylorhamphus pusillus One was seen along the Montezuma road. Streak-headed Woodcreeper Lepidocolaptes souleyetii A few noticed in the last part of the trip, first at Bolombolo. Montane Woodcreeper Lepidocolaptes lacrymiger First at Pedro Palo, also at Otun Quimbaya and at Rio Blanco. Plain Xenops Xenops minutus Seen at Bolombolo, then also noted at Minca. Streaked Xenops Xenops rutilans One at Otun Quimbaya and another one at Rio Blanco. Pacific Tuftedcheek ◊ Pseudocolaptes johnsoni It was seen along the Montezuma road. Streaked Tuftedcheek Pseudocolaptes boissonneautii It was seen at Rio Blanco.

Some furnarids seen during the trip to illustrate the variation in the family. Clockwise from top left: Carribean Hornero; Flammulated

Treehunter; Slaty-winged Foliage-gleaner; Uniform Treehunter. (Chris Venetz)


Caribbean Hornero ◊ Furnarius longirostris Nice views of a couple at Ebanal, Guajira Peninsula. Chestnut-winged Cinclodes ◊ Cinclodes albidiventris A couple at Sumapaz on our first day. Stout-billed Cinclodes ◊ Cinclodes excelsior Several were seen at Nevado del Ruiz. Slaty-winged Foliage-gleaner Philydor fuscipenne Good views at Rio Claro. Buff-fronted Foliage-gleaner Philydor rufum One individual was seen along the Montezuma road. Montane Foliage-gleaner Anabacerthia striaticollis Seen at Pedro Palo and along the San Lorenzo road. Scaly-throated Foliage-gleaner Anabacerthia variegaticeps (H) Heard along the Montezuma road. Lineated Foliage-gleaner Syndactyla subalaris (H) Heard along the Montezuma road. Ruddy Foliage-gleaner Clibanornis rubiginosus (H) Came very close, but remained a heard only. Santa Marta Foliage-gleaner ◊ Clibanornis rufipectus Great views below Bellavista, Santa Marta Mtns. Endemic Uniform Treehunter ◊ Thripadectes ignobilis Excellent views of a couple along the Montezuma road. Flammulated Treehunter ◊ Thripadectes flammulatus Fantastic looks at one along the San Lorenzo Ridge. Striped Treehunter Thripadectes holostictus One was seen in the lower part at Rio Blanco. Streak-capped Treehunter ◊ Thripadectes virgaticeps A single along the raod below Otun Quimbaya. Buff-throated Foliage-gleaner Automolus ochrolaemus (H) Heard at Rio Claro. Spotted Barbtail Premnoplex brunnescens One was seen along the Montezuma road. Star-chested Treerunner ◊ (Fulvous-dotted T) Margarornis stellatus A couple seen along the Montezuma road. Pearled Treerunner Margarornis squamiger Seen at Nevado del Ruiz and also at Rio Blanco. Andean Tit-Spinetail Leptasthenura andicola Four were seen at Sumapaz on our first morning. Many-striped Canastero ◊ Asthenes flammulata A single at Sumapaz on our first morning. White-chinned Thistletail ◊ Asthenes fuliginosa A couple seen at Sumapaz, then also at Nevado del Ruiz. Red-faced Spinetail Cranioleuca erythrops Seen at Otun Quimbaya and at Montezuma. Streak-capped Spinetail ◊ Cranioleuca hellmayri Seen along the San Lorenzo ridge. Endemic Ash-browed Spinetail Cranioleuca curtata Four were seen at Pedro Palo. Yellow-chinned Spinetail Certhiaxis cinnamomeus Seen at Isla Salamanca and at the KM4, near to Baranquilla. Slaty Spinetail Synallaxis brachyura One was seen around the Montezuma Ecolodge. Silvery-throated Spinetail ◊ Synallaxis subpudica Three were seen on our first day at Sumapaz. Endemic Pale-breasted Spinetail Synallaxis albescens Two birds were seen at Pueblo Rico. Azara's Spinetail Synallaxis azarae Seen at Otun Quimbaya and Rio Blanco. More heard. White-whiskered Spinetail ◊ Synallaxis candei Nice views at Los Camarones, Guajira Peninsula. Rusty-headed Spinetail ◊ Synallaxis fuscorufa Several sightings along the San Lorenzo Ridge. Endemic

Two endemic spinetails from the Santa Marta Mountains; Streak-capped Spinetail and Rusty-headed Spinetail. (Chris Venetz)

Rufous Spinetail Synallaxis unirufa It was seen at Hacienda El Bosque. Stripe-breasted Spinetail ◊ Synallaxis cinnamomea Three were seen at Pedro Palo. Rufous-rumped Antwren Euchrepomis callinota (H) Heard along the Montezuma road. Dot-winged Antwren Microrhopias quixensis It was seen at Rio Claro. Checker-throated Antwren Epinecrophylla fulviventris It was seen Rio Claro.


Pacific Antwren ◊ (P Streaked A) Myrmotherula pacifica Seen around the Oilbird cave, near to Rio Claro Northern White-fringed Antwren Formicivora intermedia First at Las Gaviotas, then many in the Guajira Peninsula. Yellow-breasted Antwren ◊ Herpsilochmus axillaris (H) Heard at Montezuma. Plain Antvireo Dysithamnus mentalis A couple seen below Otun Quimbaya. Also seen at Montezuma. Bicolored Antvireo ◊ (Western Antshrike) Dysithamnus occidentalis One was eventually seen at Montezuma. Black-backed Antshrike ◊ Thamnophilus melanonotus Seen along the Las Cavanas road, near to Minca. Barred Antshrike Thamnophilus doliatus A male was seen at Coello. Bar-crested Antshrike ◊ Thamnophilus multistriatus First seen at Ukuku, then also nicely seen at Montezuma. Black-crowned Antshrike (Western Slaty A) Thamnophilus atrinucha One was seen near to Bolombolo. Black-crested Antshrike Sakesphorus canadensis A few seen at Ebanal, Guajira Peninsula Santa Marta Antbird ◊ Drymophila hellmayri Great views on the road between Minca and El Dorado. Endemic Streak-headed Antbird ◊ Drymophila striaticeps One seen for some at Rio Blanco and another one at Montezuma. Parker's Antbird ◊ Cercomacroides parkeri It was seen below Otun Quimbaya. Endemic Chestnut-backed Antbird Poliocrania exsul Great views at Rio Claro. Magdalena Antbird ◊ Sipia palliate Brilliant views of one at Rio Claro. Endemic White-bellied Antbird Myrmeciza longipes Excellent views of one at Las Gaviotas. Bare-crowned Antbird ◊ Gymnocichla nudiceps Fantastic views at Rio Claro. Black-faced Antthrush Formicarius analis (H) It was heard distantly at Rio Claro. Undulated Antpitta Grallaria squamigera (H) Heard distantly at Jardin. Moustached Antpitta ◊ Grallaria alleni Seen on the road at Otun Quimbaya. Chestnut-crowned Antpitta Grallaria ruficapilla Regularly heard and fantastic views at Rio Blanco. Santa Marta Antpitta ◊ Grallaria bangsi Great views at the San Lorenzo station. Endemic Bicolored Antpitta ◊ Grallaria rufocinerea Excellent views at Rio Blanco. Chestnut-naped Antpitta ◊ Grallaria nuchalis Great views at Jardin. Yellow-breasted Antpitta ◊ Grallaria flavotincta It was seen by some along the Montezuma road. Rufous Antpitta Grallaria rufula Fantastic views at Hacienda El Bosque. Rufous Antpitta ◊ (Santa Marta A) Grallaria [rufula] spatiator (H) Heard along the San Lorenzo Ridge, but no luck. Tawny Antpitta Grallaria quitensis First seen at Sumapaz, then also seen at Nevado del Ruiz. Brown-banded Antpitta ◊ Grallaria milleri Fantastic views at Rio Blanco. Endemic Ochre-breasted Antpitta Grallaricula flavirostris (H) Heard a couple of time along the Montezuma road. Hooded Antpitta ◊ Grallaricula cucullata A couple were seen at Otun Quimbaya. Rusty-breasted Antpitta ◊ Grallaricula ferrugineipectus Nice views near to Bellavista, Santa Marta Mountains. Slaty-crowned Antpitta Grallaricula nana Seen very well at Rio Blanco, and also great looks at Jardin Crescent-faced Antpitta ◊ Grallaricula lineifrons Amazing views of this stunner at Hacienda El Bosque! Fantastic!

The skulking Ocellated Tapaculo was one of the highlights at Rio Blanco. (Chris Venetz)


Ocellated Tapaculo ◊ Acropternis orthonyx Great views of one at Rio Blanco. Ash-colored Tapaculo ◊ Myornis senilis Brief views of one at Rio Blanco Northern White-crowned Tapaculo ◊ Scytalopus atratus Single was seen at Otun Quimbaya. Santa Marta Tapaculo ◊ Scytalopus sanctaemartae Seen at Bellavista, Santa Marta Mountains. Endemic Nariño Tapaculo ◊ Scytalopus vicinior Good views at one along the Montezuma road. Tatama Tapaculo ◊ (Alto Pisones T) Scytalopus alvarezlopezi Good views along the Montezuma road. Endemic Choco Tapaculo ◊ Scytalopus chocoensis Decent looks at one along the Montezuma road. Stiles's Tapaculo ◊ Scytalopus stilesi It was seen on both days at Otun Quimbaya. Endemic Brown-rumped Tapaculo ◊ Scytalopus latebricola Excellent views along the San Lorenzo road. Endemic Spillmann's Tapaculo ◊ Scytalopus spillmanni (H) Remained a heard only at Rio Blanco. Pale-bellied Tapaculo ◊ (Mattoral T) Scytalopus griseicollis A single seen well at Sumapaz. Paramo Tapaculo ◊ Scytalopus opacus Good views around Hotel Thermales. Blackish Tapaculo ◊ Scytalopus latrans Two birds seen at Rio Blanco. Sooty-headed Tyrannulet Phyllomyias griseiceps One was seen at Ibague, and another one near to Minca. Plumbeous-crowned Tyrannulet ◊ Phyllomyias plumbeiceps Seen at Otun Quimbaya. Black-capped Tyrannulet Phyllomyias nigrocapillus First seen above Santa Rosa, then also at Montezuma. Ashy-headed Tyrannulet Phyllomyias cinereiceps A single was seen at Otun Quimbaya. Tawny-rumped Tyrannulet ◊ Phyllomyias uropygialis A single showed well at Sumapaz. Yellow-crowned Tyrannulet Tyrannulus elatus Commonly seen at Rio Claro. Forest Elaenia Myiopagis gaimardii A single was seen at Ibague botanical garden. Greenish Elaenia Myiopagis viridicata First seen at Coello, then another one near to Bolombolo. Yellow-bellied Elaenia Elaenia flavogaster Several sightings, the first at Pedro Palo. Mountain Elaenia Elaenia frantzii Regularly noted. First at San Pedro. Common along the San Lorenzo Ridge. Southern Beardless Tyrannulet Camptostoma obsoletum First seen at Ibague, then in the Minca area. White-throated Tyrannulet Mecocerculus leucophrys Common at high altitudes. White-tailed Tyrannulet Mecocerculus poecilocercus Great views of a couple at Rio Blanco. White-banded Tyrannulet Mecocerculus stictopterus Seen on the road below Hotel Thermales. Torrent Tyrannulet Serpophaga cinerea One was seen at Ukuku, and another one at Montezuma. Mouse-colored Tyrannulet Phaeomyias murina A single seen well at Coello. Tawny-crowned Pygmy Tyrant ◊ Euscarthmus meloryphus It was seen at Ebanal, Guajira Peninsula. Golden-faced Tyrannulet ◊ Zimmerius chrysops Common in the first part of the tour, especially at Rio Blanco. Coopmans's Tyrannulet ◊ Zimmerius minimus It was seen at Minca. Variegated Bristle Tyrant Pogonotriccus poecilotis Seen at Otun Quimbaya, then also at Rio Claro. Marble-faced Bristle Tyrant Pogonotriccus ophthalmicus First at Otun Quimbaya. Also at Montezuma. Antioquia Bristle Tyrant ◊ Pogonotriccus lanyoni Excellent views of one at Rio Claro. Endemic Rufous-browed Tyrannulet ◊ Phylloscartes superciliaris (H) Heard along the Montezuma road. Streak-necked Flycatcher Mionectes striaticollis A few seen along the tour, first at Rio Blanco. Olive-striped Flycatcher Mionectes olivaceus Seen around El Dorado Lodge. Ochre-bellied Flycatcher Mionectes oleagineus Seen at Ibague, at Rio Claro and in the Santa Marta Mountains. Sepia-capped Flycatcher Leptopogon amaurocephalus One was seen at Rio Claro. Slaty-capped Flycatcher Leptopogon superciliaris Seen well at Otun Quimbaya. Rufous-breasted Flycatcher ◊ Leptopogon rufipectus Seen well at Otun Quimbaya on two days. Northern Scrub Flycatcher Sublegatus arenarum One was seen at Ebanal, Guajira Peninsula. Slender-billed Inezia ◊ Inezia tenuirostris It was seen at Los Camarones, Guajira Peninsula. Pale-tipped Inezia (P-t Tyrannulet) Inezia caudata It was seen at Ebanal, Guajira Peninsula. Flavescent Flycatcher ◊ Myiophobus flavicans A couple showed well at Rio Blanco. Handsome Flycatcher ◊ Nephelomyias pulcher A few seen along the Montezuma road. Ornate Flycatcher ◊ Myiotriccus ornatus Small numbers were seen along the Montezuma road. Pearly-vented Tody-Tyrant Hemitriccus margaritaceiventer It was seen at Los Camarones, Guajira Peninsula. Black-throated Tody-Tyrant ◊ Hemitriccus granadensis Seen at Montezuma, then also at San Lorenzo Station. Black-capped Pygmy Tyrant Myiornis atricapillus Good views at the Oilbird cave, near to Rio Claro. Southern Bentbill ◊ Oncostoma olivaceum A couple seen at Rio Claro. Scale-crested Pygmy Tyrant Lophotriccus pileatus Seen at La Romera. Pale-eyed Pygmy Tyrant Atalotriccus pilaris Commonly seen along the Las Cavanas road, near to Minca.


Some tyrant flycatchers from the tour. Clockwise from top: White-throated Tyrannulet; White-tailed Tyrannulet; Northern Scrub

Flycatcher; Olivaceous Flatbill; Golden-faced Tyrannulet. (Chris Venetz)


More members of this large family. Clockwise from top left: Rufous-crowned Tody-Flycatcher; Black-headed Tody-Flycatcher; Black-

throated Tody-Tyrant; Common Tody-Flycatcher. (Chris Venetz)


Clockwise from top: Cinnamon Flycatcher; Olive-striped Flycatcher; Ochre-bellied Flycatcher. (Chris Venetz)


Rufous-crowned Tody-Flycatcher Poecilotriccus ruficeps Seen well at Otun Quimabaya and at Rio Blanco. Slaty-headed Tody-Flycatcher Poecilotriccus sylvia (H) It was heard at Bolombolo. Common Tody-Flycatcher Todirostrum cinereum Regulary noted throughout the tour. First at Coello. Black-headed Tody-Flycatcher Todirostrum nigriceps Nice views around the Oilbird cave, near to Rio Claro. Olivaceous Flatbill Rhynchocyclus olivaceus A few birds seen at Rio Claro. Yellow-olive Flatbill (Y-o Flycatcher) Tolmomyias sulphurescens Seen at Pedro Palo and at Rio Claro. Yellow-margined Flatbill ◊ (Y-m Flycatcher) Tolmomyias flavotectus It was seen at Bolombolo. Ochre-lored Flatbill (O-l Flycatcher) Tolmomyias flaviventris Seen at Minca and at Ebanal, Guajira Peninsula. Cinnamon Flycatcher Pyrrhomyias cinnamomeus A few were seen at Rio Blanco and along the Montezuma road. Black Phoebe Sayornis nigricans Seen on several days. First at Otun Quimbaya. Olive-sided Flycatcher (W) Contopus cooperi It was seen around Minca. Smoke-colored Pewee Contopus fumigatus A few seen at Rio Blanco Eastern Wood Pewee (W) Contopus virens Single at Otun Quimbaya. Acadian Flycatcher (W) Empidonax virescens Recorded a few times, first at Rio Claro Vermilion Flycatcher Pyrocephalus obscurus First seen near Ibague, then a couple seen in the Guajira Peninsula. Streak-throated Bush Tyrant Myiotheretes striaticollis A couple at Sumapaz on our first day. Santa Marta Bush Tyrant ◊ Myiotheretes pernix Brilliant views along the San Lorenzo Ridge, Santa Marta. Endemic Smoky Bush Tyrant Myiotheretes fumigatus Seen at Nevado del Ruiz and near to Hotel Thermales. Red-rumped Bush Tyrant Cnemarchus erythropygius A single was seen on the first day at Sumapaz. Pied Water Tyrant Fluvicola pica Seen at Los Camarones, Guajira Peninsula. Then also at Isla Salamanca. Crowned Chat-Tyrant Silvicultrix frontalis Seen at Nevado del Ruiz. Then also near to Hotel Thermales. Yellow-bellied Chat-Tyrant ◊ Silvicultrix diadema Excellent views along the San Lorenzo Ridge, Santa Martas Slaty-backed Chat-Tyrant ◊ Ochthoeca cinnamomeiventris Nice views of one at Rio Blanco. Rufous-breasted Chat-Tyrant Ochthoeca rufipectoralis Common above Sant Rosa and another one seen at Jardin. Brown-backed Chat-Tyrant Ochthoeca fumicolor Several seen throughout the tour. First at Sumapaz. Long-tailed Tyrant Colonia colonus A few birds seen at Rio Claro. Cattle Tyrant Machetornis rixosa One at Ukuku and more in the Guajira Peninsula. Piratic Flycatcher Legatus leucophaius A few birds seen. Best were at the Oilbird cave, near to Rio Claro. Rusty-margined Flycatcher Myiozetetes cayanensis Seen at Pedro Palo, at Ibague and also at Montezuma. Social Flycatcher Myiozetetes similis Scarce throughout the tour. Seen well at Las Gaviotas. Great Kiskadee Pitangus sulphuratus Common and widespread. Lesser Kiskadee Philohydor lictor Single seen at Rio Claro. Lemon-browed Flycatcher ◊ Conopias cinchoneti Nice scope views along the Montezuma raod. Golden-crowned Flycatcher Myiodynastes chrysocephalus (H) Heard at along the Montezuma road. Streaked Flycatcher Myiodynastes maculatus A few birds seen. First at Rio Claro Boat-billed Flycatcher Megarynchus pitangua Seen at Rio Claro and near to Minca. Tropical Kingbird Tyrannus melancholicus Seen commonly on many days. Fork-tailed Flycatcher Tyrannus savana Six were seen in the hot lowlands at Coello. Grey Kingbird Tyrannus dominicensis A couple seen at Los Camarones, Guajira Peninsula. Dusky-capped Flycatcher Myiarchus tuberculifer A single bird seen at Otun Quimbaya. Heard at Montezuma Panamanian Flycatcher ◊ (Panama F) Myiarchus panamensis Single seen at Isla Salamanca NP Apical Flycatcher ◊ Myiarchus apicalis Two birds were seen near to Bolombolo! Endemic Pale-edged Flycatcher Myiarchus cephalotes Seen at Ukuku and at Rio Blanco. Great Crested Flycatcher (W) Myiarchus crinitus Seen along the Las Cavanas road, near to Minca. Brown-crested Flycatcher Myiarchus tyrannulus A few seen. Most conspicuous in the Guajira Peninsula. Bright-rumped Attila ◊ (Flammulated A) Attila spadiceus One seen along the Las Cavanas road, near to Minca. Red-crested Cotinga ◊ Ampelion rubrocristatus At least ten above Santa Rosa, a high count. Chestnut-crested Cotinga ◊ Ampelion rufaxilla Excellent views of a single near to Jardin. Green-and-black Fruiteater Pipreola riefferii A few seen. Best views were at Rio Blanco. Barred Fruiteater Pipreola arcuate Fantastic views at Hacienda El Bosque. Golden-breasted Fruiteater ◊ Pipreola aureopectus Great views around El Dorado Lodge. Orange-breasted Fruiteater ◊ Pipreola jucunda Brief views along the Montezuma road. Scaled Fruiteater Ampelioides tschudii Great views at one along the Montezuma road. Andean Cock-of-the-rock Rupicola peruvianus A few seen early in the trip and plenty at the lek at Jardin.


We’ve seen a good selection of fruiteaters on this tour. Clockwise from top left: Scaled Fruiteater from Montezuma; Golden-breasted

Fruiteater from El Dorado; Green-and-black Fruiteater from Rio Blanco; Barred Fruiteater from Hacienda El Bosque. (Chris Venetz)

Red-ruffed Fruitcrow Pyroderus scutatus This impressive bird was common at Otun Quimbaya. Yellow-headed Manakin ◊ Chloropipo flavicapilla A stunning male was seen at La Romera. Lance-tailed Manakin Chiroxiphia lanceolata Plenty seen along the Las Cavanas road, then a few at Las Gaviotas.


Golden-winged Manakin ◊ Masius chrysopterus It was seen along the Montezuma road. White-bearded Manakin Manacus manacus First seen at Rio Claro. Then also around Minca and at Las Gaviotas. Club-winged Manakin ◊ Machaeropterus deliciosus A few seen along the Montezuma road. Striolated Manakin ◊ Machaeropterus striolatus Excellent views along the Aquitania road, near to Rio Claro. Masked Tityra Tityra semifasciata A few seen throughout the tour. First at Pedro Pale. Russet-winged Schiffornis ◊ Schiffornis stenorhyncha Nice views at Rio Claro! Barred Becard Pachyramphus versicolor Good views at Rio Blanco. More heard. Cinereous Becard Pachyramphus rufus A male was seen at Ibague botanical garden. Cinnamon Becard Pachyramphus cinnamomeus A few were seen at Rio Claro. White-winged Becard Pachyramphus polychopterus Regularly noted. First seen at Pedro Palo. One-colored Becard Pachyramphus homochrous A couple seen at Rio Claro. Rufous-browed Peppershrike Cyclarhis gujanensis Seen at Pedro Palo and at Ebanal, Guajira Peninsula. Black-billed Peppershrike ◊ Cyclarhis nigrirostris A couple showed well at Pedro Pale, then also at Montezuma. Yellow-throated Vireo (W) Vireo flavifrons A single seen at Otun Quimbaya. Choco Vireo ◊ Vireo masteri (H) Remained a heard only along the Montezuma road. Brown-capped Vireo Vireo leucophrys Seen on most days in the subtropics. Red-eyed Vireo Vireo olivaceus Seen near to Bolombolo, then also near to Minca. Rufous-naped Greenlet ◊ Hylophilus semibrunneus Seen at Pedro Palo and at Otun Quimbaya. Golden-fronted Greenlet Hylophilus aurantiifrons Nice views along the Las Cavanas road, near to Minca. Scrub Greenlet Hylophilus flavipes Seen at Coello. Then also at Ebanal, Guajira Peninsula. Black-collared Jay ◊ Cyanolyca armillata Excellent views of three birds at Rio Blanco. Black-chested Jay ◊ Cyanocorax affinis Several seen. First at Rio Claro. Inca Jay Cyanocorax yncas Seen at Ukuku and at Otun Quimbaya. Grey-breasted Martin Progne chalybea Seen near to Puento Bomba, Guajira Peninsula. Blue-and-white Swallow Notiochelidon cyanoleuca Plenty seen throughout the tour. Brown-bellied Swallow Notiochelidon murina Common at higher altitudes. First at Sumapaz. Pale-footed Swallow Notiochelidon flavipes A couple seen at Rio Blanco. White-thighed Swallow Neochelidon tibialis Three were seen at the Oilbird cave, near to Rio Claro. Southern Rough-winged Swallow Stelgidopteryx ruficollis Many seen during the tour. First at Otun Quimbaya. Barn Swallow (W) Hirundo rustica First seen at Las Gaviotas. Then a few more in the Guajira Peninsula. Band-backed Wren Campylorhynchus zonatus It was seen at Rio Claro. Stripe-backed Wren ◊ Campylorhynchus nuchalis Nice views at the KM4, near to Baranquilla Bicolored Wren Campylorhynchus griseus Plenty seen throughout the tour. First seen at Coello. Rufous Wren Cinnycerthia unirufa It was seen at Rio Blanco. Sepia-brown Wren (Sharpe's W) Cinnycerthia olivascens Single seen at Rio Blanco. Apolinar's Wren ◊ (A Marsh W) Cistothorus apolinari Great views of four at Sumapaz. Endemic Grass Wren (Grass W) Cistothorus platensis Two were seen at Nevado del Ruiz. Sooty-headed Wren ◊ Pheugopedius spadix Great views of one along the Montezuma road. Black-bellied Wren ◊ Pheugopedius fasciatoventris Two were seen at Rio Claro Whiskered Wren Pheugopedius mystacalis Seen at Otun Quimbaya and a few more heard. Rufous-breasted Wren Pheugopedius rutilus Two individuals were seen at Minca. Speckle-breasted Wren Pheugopedius sclateri Excellent views of a single near to Bolombolo. See Note. Rufous-and-white Wren Thryophilus rufalbus Seen in Minca. Then also along the Las Cavanas road. Antioquia Wren ◊ Thryophilus sernai Great views of a single near to Bolombolo. Endemic Buff-breasted Wren Cantorchilus leucotis It was seen at Las Gaviotas. Bay Wren Cantorchilus nigricapillus Two birds were seen at Rio Claro. House Wren Troglodytes aedon Seen commonly on several days. Mountain Wren Troglodytes solstitialis A couple showed well at Rio Blanco. White-breasted Wood Wren Henicorhina leucosticta One was seen at Rio Claro. More heard. Grey-breasted Wood Wren Henicorhina leucophrys Regularly noted in suitable habitats. Best were at Montezuma. Hermit Wood Wren ◊ Henicorhina anachoreta Great views at San Lorenzo, Santa Marta Mountains. Endemic Munchique Wood Wren ◊ Henicorhina negreti Great views along the Montezuma road. Endemic Southern Nightingale-Wren Microcerculus marginatus (H) Heard at Rio Claro. Chestnut-breasted Wren ◊ Cyphorhinus thoracicus A single seen well at Otun Quimbaya. More heard.


Trilling Gnatwren Ramphocaenus melanurus It was seen along the Las Cavanas road, near to Minca. Tropical Gnatcatcher Polioptila plumbea Common at Coello and in the Guajira Peninsula. Tropical Mockingbird Mimus gilvus Many recorded in suitable habitat. First at Coello.

The common Tropical Mockingbird was seen on many occasions in suitable habitat. (Chris Venetz)

Andean Solitaire Myadestes ralloides Good views at la Romera. Several more heard. Orange-billed Nightingale-Thrush Catharus aurantiirostris First seen at Otun Quimbaya. Then also at Bellavista. Slaty-backed Nightingale-Thrush Catharus fuscater One was seen at Otun Quimbaya. Then also around El Dorado. Swainson's Thrush (W) Catharus ustulatus Several were at Pedro Pale. Black Solitaire ◊ Entomodestes coracinus Decent views along the Montezuma road. Yellow-legged Thrush Turdus flavipes Single seen on the road between Minca and El Dorado Lodge. Pale-eyed Thrush Turdus leucops One was seen at Otun Quimbaya. Then also seen at Montezuma. Great Thrush Turdus fuscater Seen commonly at highlands sites. Glossy-black Thrush Turdus serranus Single seen at Rio Blanco. Black-hooded Thrush ◊ Turdus olivater Several seen between El Dorado and the San Lorenzo Ridge, Santa Martas Pale-breasted Thrush Turdus leucomelas A few were seen. First in the botanical garden at Ibague. Black-billed Thrush Turdus ignobilis Seen commonly at a number of sites. Best on the feeders at Montezuma. White-capped Dipper Cinclus leucocephalus Good views on the walk down from Ukuku. Yellow-bellied Siskin Spinus xanthogastrus A couple seen at Pedro Palo. Then also at Rio Blanco. Hooded Siskin Spinus magellanicus A few were seen at Santa Rosa. Andean Siskin ◊ Spinus spinescens A couple were seen above Santa Rosa. Trinidad Euphonia ◊ Euphonia trinitatis Great views at Las Gaviotas. Velvet-fronted Euphonia ◊ Euphonia concinna Seen at Coello and at Ibague botanical garden. Thick-billed Euphonia Euphonia laniirostris Commonly encountered. First at Coello. Fulvous-vented Euphonia ◊ Euphonia fulvicrissa Nice views at Rio Claro. Orange-bellied Euphonia Euphonia xanthogaster Seen daily at Otun Quimbaya. Yellow-collared Chlorophonia ◊ Chlorophonia flavirostris Good views along the Montezuma road. Blue-naped Chlorophonia Chlorophonia cyanea A few seen in the Santa Marta mountains. First around Bellavista. Chestnut-breasted Chlorophonia ◊ Chlorophonia pyrrhophrys First at Santa Rosa, another one at Montezuma.


Rosy Thrush-Tanager Rhodinocichla rosea It was seen on the road between Minca and El Dorado. Rufous-collared Sparrow Zonotrichia capensis Common and widespread. Tocuyo Sparrow ◊ Arremonops tocuyensis Good views at Los Camarones, Guajira Peninsula. Golden-winged Sparrow ◊ Arremon schlegeli Excellent views near to Minca.

Pale-naped Brushfinch (above) and Grey-browed Brushfinch. (Chris Venetz)


Chestnut-capped Brushfinch Arremon brunneinucha Seen along the road at Otun Quimbaya. Sierra Nevada Brushfinch ◊ Arremon basilicus A couple seen well around El Dorado Lodge. Endemic Grey-browed Brushfinch Arremon assimilis Excellent views on the feeders at Hacienda El Bosque. Olive Finch ◊ Arremon castaneiceps Great views at one along the Montezuma road. Moustached Brushfinch ◊ Atlapetes albofrenatus Three were seen at Pedro Palo. White-naped Brushfinch Atlapetes albinucha Seen at Ukuku and at Otun Quimbaya, Santa Marta Brushfinch ◊ Atlapetes melanocephalus Common in the Santa Marta Mountains. Endemic Pale-naped Brushfinch ◊ Atlapetes pallidinucha Excellent views at Nevado del Ruiz. Yellow-headed Brushfinch ◊ Atlapetes flaviceps Two were seen in the garden at Ukuku. Endemic Choco Brushfinch ◊ Atlapetes crassus Several sightings along the Montezuma road. Slaty Brushfinch Atlapetes schistaceus A few sightings. First seen above Santa Rosa. Tanager Finch ◊ Oreothraupis arremonops Great views along the Montezuma road. Common Bush Tanager Chlorospingus flavopectus (LO) Seen at Otun Quimbaya. Dusky Bush Tanager (Dusky-bellied B T) Chlorospingus semifuscus A few sighting along the Montezuma road. Ashy-throated Bush Tanager Chlorospingus canigularis A single was seen at Otun Quimbaya. Eastern Meadowlark Sturnella magna Heard near Bogota and seen at Pedro Palo. Red-breasted Blackbird Leistes militaris Seen on the way to the Oilbird cave near to Rio Claro.

Red-breasted Blackbird from Rio Claro. (Chris Venetz)

Yellow-billed Cacique Amblycercus holosericeus (H) Heard distantly at Rio Blanco Chestnut-headed Oropendola Psarocolius wagleri It was seen in the area of the Oilbird cave, near to Rio Claro. Russet-backed Oropendola Psarocolius angustifrons A few seen at Montezuma. Crested Oropendola Psarocolius decumanus Commonly seen at the lower part in the Santa Marta Mountains. Yellow-rumped Cacique Cacicus cela Several seen in the area of the Oilbird cave near to Rio Claro. Yellow-backed Oriole Icterus chrysater A few seen. First at Ukuku. Yellow Oriole Icterus nigrogularis It was seen at Santa Marta Airport, then at Los Camarones, Guajira Peninsula. Baltimore Oriole (W) Icterus galbula First seen at Pedro Palo. Then also around Minca and in the Guajira Peninsula. Orange-crowned Oriole Icterus auricapillus First seen at Rio Claro. Then also around Minca and at Los Gaviotas. Shiny Cowbird Molothrus bonariensis Commonly encountered in the first days. First around Bogota. Bronze-brown Cowbird ◊ Molothrus armenti Excellent views of this endemic at Isla Salamanca. Endemic Carib Grackle Quiscalus lugubris First on the road between Montezuma and Jardin. Common in the Caribbean coast.


Stunning whitestarts... Golden-fronted Whitestart (above) and Yellow-crowned Whitestart. (Chris Venetz)


The endemic Santa Marta Warbler was a good one in the Santa Marta Mountains. (Chris Venetz)

Great-tailed Grackle Quiscalus mexicanus Common along the north coast. First at Santa Marta Airport. Red-bellied Grackle ◊ Hypopyrrhus pyrohypogaster Excellent views at the Cock-of-the-rock lek at Jardin. Endemic Northern Waterthrush (W) Parkesia noveboracensis Heard and seen by some at Isla Salamanca NP. Black-and-white Warbler (W) Mniotilta varia Regular sightings in the subtropics throughout the tour. Prothonotary Warbler (W) Protonotaria citrea Great views of a few at Isla Salamanca NP. Tennessee Warbler (W) Leiothlypis peregrina Seen at Bellavista, Santa Marta Mountains. American Redstart (W) Setophaga ruticilla A few seen throughout the tour. First near to Ibague. Cerulean Warbler (W) Setophaga cerulea (NL) Seen by some some at Pedro Palo. Tropical Parula Setophaga pitiayumi A few sightings early in the trip. First at Coello. Bay-breasted Warbler (W) Setophaga castanea A few seen. First was in the botanical garden at Ibague. Blackburnian Warbler (W) Setophaga fusca Commonly seen in the subtropics. American Yellow Warbler (W) Setophaga aestiva A few seen during the tour. First at Coello. Citrine Warbler Myiothlypis luteoviridis It was seen at Rio Blanco. Santa Marta Warbler ◊ Myiothlypis basilica Brilliant views along the San Lorenzo Ridge, Santa Marta Mtns. Endemic Black-crested Warbler Myiothlypis nigrocristata First seen above Santa Rosa. Then also at Nevado del Ruiz. Buff-rumped Warbler Myiothlypis fulvicauda A few seen well at Rio Claro. White-lored Warbler ◊ Myiothlypis conspicillata A few seen in the Santa Marta Mountains. Endemic Russet-crowned Warbler Myiothlypis coronata Seen at Otun Quimbaya and at Santa Rosa. Rufous-capped Warbler (Chestnut-c W) Basileuterus rufifrons A few seen. First at our lunch near Ibague. Three-striped Warbler Basileuterus tristriatus A few seen. First at Ukuku. Canada Warbler (W) Cardellina canadensis Regular sightings. First at Pedro Palo. Slate-throated Whitestart (S-t Redstart) Myioborus miniatus Commonly seen. First at Pedro Palo. Yellow-crowned Whitestart ◊ (Y-c Redstart) Myioborus flavivertex Seen along the San Lorenzo Ridge. Endemic Golden-fronted Whitestart ◊ (G-f Redstart) Myioborus ornatus Several seen. First above Santa Rosa. Dusky-faced Tanager Mitrospingus cassinii A few seen very well at Rio Claro Tooth-billed Tanager (Highland Hepatic T) Piranga lutea A few seen. First at Ukuku. Summer Tanager (W) Piranga rubra Commonly encountered at low altitudes. First at Pedro Palo Sooty Ant Tanager ◊ Habia gutturalis Brilliant views along the Aquitania road, near Rio Claro. Endemic


Crested Ant Tanager ◊ Habia cristata Great looks at three at Otun Quimbaya. Endemic Ochre-breasted Tanager ◊ Chlorothraupis stolzmanni Single seen along the Montezuma road. Golden Grosbeak Pheucticus chrysogaster Seen at the San Lorenzo station, Santa Marta Mountains. Rose-breasted Grosbeak (W) Pheucticus ludovicianus First at la Romera. Then a few in the Guajira Peninsula. Vermilion Cardinal ◊ Cardinalis phoeniceus Excellent views at Los Camarones, Guajira Peninsula. Blue-black Grosbeak Cyanocompsa cyanoides Seen at Rio Claro and also along the Las Cavanas rd, near Minca. White-capped Tanager ◊ Sericossypha albocristata Two groups seen. At Otun Quimbaya and at Santa Rosa. Black-capped Hemispingus Hemispingus atropileus Great views of several at Rio Blanco. Superciliaried Hemispingus Hemispingus superciliaris Seen well at Santa Rosa. Then also seen at Rio Blanco. Oleaginous Hemispingus Hemispingus frontalis First seen at Otun Quimbaya. Then also one at Rio Blanco. Black-eared Hemispingus Hemispingus melanotis Three birds seen at Rio Blanco.

Black-capped (left) and Black-eared Hemispingus from Rio Blanco. (Chris Venetz)

Grey-hooded Bush Tanager Cnemoscopus rubrirostris Great views in mixed flocks at Rio Blanco. Grey-headed Tanager Eucometis penicillata A couple seen in the Oilbird cave area, near to Rio Claro. White-shouldered Tanager Tachyphonus luctuosus First seen at the Ibague botanical garden. Also at Rio Claro. Tawny-crested Tanager Tachyphonus delatrii Great views at Rio Claro. White-lined Tanager Tachyphonus rufus A couple seen below Bellavista, Santa Marta Mountains. Crimson-backed Tanager ◊ Ramphocelus dimidiatus A few seen. First at Pedro Palo. Flame-rumped Tanager ◊ Ramphocelus flammigerus Seen at Otun Quimbaya. Common at Montezuma. Lemon-rumped Tanager ◊ Ramphocelus icteronotus Common around Montezuma Ecolodge. Blue-grey Tanager Thraupis episcopus Seen on most days at lower elevation. Glaucous Tanager ◊ Thraupis glaucocolpa Excellent views near to Los Camarones, Guajira Peninsula. Palm Tanager Thraupis palmarum Regular sightings in the lowlands. Blue-capped Tanager Thraupis cyanocephala A few seen. First at Rio Blanco. Black-and-gold Tanager ◊ Bangsia melanochlamys Great views along the Montezuma road. Endemic Gold-ringed Tanager ◊ Bangsia aureocincta Great views along the Montezuma road. Endemic Hooded Mountain Tanager Buthraupis montana A few were seen well above Santa Rosa. Black-chested Mountain Tanager ◊ Buthraupis eximia Single seen below Hotel Thermales. Santa Marta Mountain Tanager ◊ Anisognathus melanogenys Common along the San Lorenzo Ridge. Endemic Lacrimose Mountain Tanager Anisognathus lacrymosus Several seen. First at Rio Blanco. Scarlet-bellied Mountain Tanager Anisognathus igniventris Commonly seen at high elevation. First Sumapaz. Blue-winged Mountain Tanager Anisognathus somptuosus Good views at a few at Rio Blanco. Black-chinned Mountain Tanager ◊ Anisognathus notabilis Great views along the Montezuma road. Grass-green Tanager Chlorornis riefferii Nice views at Rio Blanco. Buff-breasted Mountain Tanager Dubusia taeniata A single seen well at Sumapaz. Purplish-mantled Tanager ◊ Iridosornis porphyrocephalus Excellent views along the Montezuma road.


A few tanagers from the highlands. Clockwise from top: Scarlet-bellied Mountain Tanager; Golden-crowned Tanager; Lacrimose

Mountain Tanager. (Chris Venetz)


More members of this large family. Clockwise from top: Golden-hooded Tanager; Tawny-crested Tanager; Dusky-faced Tanager; Bay-

headed Tanager (ssp T. g. toddi); Black-headed Tanager. (Chris Venetz)


Golden-crowned Tanager ◊ Iridosornis rufivertex Good views on the road below Hotel Thermales. Fawn-breasted Tanager Pipraeidea melanonota Seen at Pedro Palo and Otun Quimbaya. Glistening-green Tanager ◊ Chlorochrysa phoenicotis Nice views of a few along the Montezuma road. Multicolored Tanager ◊ Chlorochrysa nitidissima Great views of several at Otun Quimbaya. Plain-colored Tanager ◊ Tangara inornata Good views at Rio Claro. Golden Tanager Tangara arthus A few seen well. First at Ibague. Silver-throated Tanager Tangara icterocephala It was seen along the Montezuma road. Saffron-crowned Tanager Tangara xanthocephala A single seen at Rio Blanco Flame-faced Tanager Tangara parzudakii A single was seen along the Montezuma road. Rufous-throated Tanager Tangara rufigula A few seen along the Montezuma road. Bay-headed Tanager Tangara gyrola Many during the tour, including the local form in the Santa Martas. See Note. Scrub Tanager ◊ Tangara vitriolina Several seen. First at Pedro Palo. Metallic-green Tanager ◊ Tangara labradorides Several seen. First Pedro Palo. Blue-necked Tanager Tangara cyanicollis Seen at Pedro Palo, Ukuku and at Otun Quimbaya. Golden-hooded Tanager Tangara larvata Several seen at Rio Claro. Beryl-spangled Tanager Tangara nigroviridis Seen at Otun Quimbaya, at Rio Blanco and at Montezuma. Blue-and-black Tanager Tangara vassorii Common at Rio Blanco and around Hotel Thermales. Black-capped Tanager Tangara heinei A few seen. First at Pedro Palo. Black-headed Tanager ◊ Tangara cyanoptera A couple seen well below Bellavista, Santa Marta Mountains. Swallow Tanager Tersina viridis Many seen in the last part of the tour. First at Rio Claro. Yellow-tufted Dacnis ◊ Dacnis egregia It was seen at Ibague botanical garden. Also at Rio Claro. Turquoise Dacnis ◊ Dacnis hartlaubi A single was seen at Pedro Palo. Endemic Purple Honeycreeper Cyanerpes caeruleus Great views in the Oilbird cave area, near to Rio Claro. Red-legged Honeycreeper Cyanerpes cyaneus It was seen near to Minca. Also at Las Gaviotas. Green Honeycreeper Chlorophanes spiza Commonly seen. First at Otun quimbaya. Scarlet-browed Tanager ◊ Heterospingus xanthopygius Seen by some at Rio Claro. Scarlet-and-white Tanager ◊ Chrysothlypis salmoni (NL) Seen by some along the Montezuma road. Bicolored Conebill Conirostrum bicolor Great views at Isla Salamanca NP. Rufous-browed Conebill ◊ Conirostrum rufum Commonly seen at Sumapaz on the first day. Blue-backed Conebill Conirostrum sitticolor A couple seen above Santa Rosa. Then also below Hotel Thermales. Capped Conebill Conirostrum albifrons A couple seen at Rio Blanco. Rusty Flowerpiercer Diglossa sittoides Several seen well at Ukuku. Also a few seen in the Santa Marta Mountains. Chestnut-bellied Flowerpiercer ◊ Diglossa gloriosissima Two seen very well along the Montezuma road. Endemic Glossy Flowerpiercer Diglossa lafresnayii Several seen. First at Sumapaz. Black Flowerpiercer Diglossa humeralis a few seen. First at Rio Blanco. White-sided Flowerpiercer Diglossa albilatera Regular sightings. First at Rio Blanco. Also in the Santa Martas. Indigo Flowerpiercer ◊ Diglossa indigotica It was seen along the Montezuma road. Bluish Flowerpiercer Diglossa caerulescens A few seen along the Montezuma road. Masked Flowerpiercer Diglossa cyanea Many sightings. First at Otun Quimbaya. Black-backed Bush Tanager ◊ Urothraupis stolzmanni Single seen well on the read below Laguna Negra. Grey Pileated Finch Coryphospingus pileatus A couple were seen at Coello. Plumbeous Sierra Finch Phrygilus unicolor Commonly seen at Sumapaz. Saffron Finch Sicalis flaveola Several seen. First at Pedro Palo. Buff-throated Saltator Saltator maximus Planty sightings on the tour. First Ukuku. Black-winged Saltator ◊ Saltator atripennis It was seen at Ukuku. Then also around the Montezuma Ecolodge. Greyish Saltator Saltator caerulescens A few seen in the Guajira Peninsula. First near to Ebanal. Orinoco Saltator ◊ Saltator orenocensis Great views at Los Camarones, Guajira Peninsula. Masked Saltator ◊ Saltator cinctus Excellent scope views of a single at Rio Blanco. Streaked Saltator Saltator striatipectus A few seen throughout the tour. First at Ukuku. Blue-black Grassquit Volatinia jacarina A few seen throughout the tour. First at Coello. Variable Seedeater Sporophila corvina It was seen around the Montezuma Ecolodge. Yellow-bellied Seedeater Sporophila nigricollis A few seen. First at Pedro Palo. Ruddy-breasted Seedeater Sporophila minuta First seen at Pueblo Rico. Then also at Pueblo Rico. Plain-colored Seedeater Catamenia inornata A few were seen at Nevado del Ruiz.


Paramo Seedeater Catamenia homochroa Great views at Nevado del Ruiz. Also seen along the San Lorenzo Ridge. Bananaquit Coereba flaveola Commonly seen throughout the tour. First at Pedro Palo. Yellow-faced Grassquit Tiaris olivaceus Seen in the garden at Ukuku. Then also at Pueblo Rico. Dull-colored Grassquit Tiaris obscurus Seen in the garden at Ukuku. Black-faced Grassquit Tiaris bicolor Excellent views at Los Camarones, Guajira Peninsula. Plushcap (Plush-capped F) Catamblyrhynchus diadema Great views in Mixed flocks at Rio Blanco.

Rio Blanco was a great site for finding the beautiful Plushcap in mixed flocks. (Chris Venetz)

MAMMALS

Silvery-brown Tamarin Saguinus leucopus Two were seen at Rio Claro. Grey-handed Night Monkey (Gray-handed N M) Aotus griseimembra Seen at Rio Claro. Colombian Red Howler Monkey Alouatta seniculus Great views of several groups at Otun and Las Gaviotas. Brazilian Guinea Pig Cavia aperea Common at Sumapaz on the first morning. Central American Agouti Dasyprocta punctate Seen at Maontezuma. Western Dwarf Squirrel Microsciurus mimulus Seen at Rio Blanco. Red-tailed Squirrel (Tropical Red S) Sciurus granatensis Seen at Pedro Palo and at Sa Lorenzo. Crab-eating Fox Cerdocyon thous One at Otun Quimbaya. Kinkajou Potos flavus One at Otun Quimbaya.


NOTES TO THE SYSTEMATIC LIST

Rufous-gaped Hillstar Urochroa bougueri White-tailed Hillstar has been renamed as Rufous-gaped Hillstar U.bougheri with split of Green-backed Hillstar U. leucura. We had regular sightings of Rufous-gaped Hillstar U.bougheri at Montezuma. Tyrian Metaltail Metallura tyrianthina Potential split into several species according to HBW. We’ve seen the endemic form ‘Santa Marta’ Metaltail M. ditricta in the Santa Marta Mountains. The current nominate form Tyrian Metaltail M. tyrianthina was also seen elsewhere on the tour. Bay-headed Tanager Tangara gyrola We had many sightings during the tour, including the distinct subspecies T. g. toddi in the Santa Marta Mountains. This fsubspecies is distributed from northern Colombia to northwest and north Venezuela and is morphologically distinct with an all green plumage. Speckle-breasted Wren Pheugopedius sclateri There are four subspecies for Speckle-breasted Wren and we’ve seen the subspecies P. s. columbianus at Bolombolo which may be a future split endemic to Colombia. APPENDIX 1

TOP 5 BIRDS OF THE TOUR

1. Crescent-faced Antpitta

2. Oilbird

3. Andean Cock-of-the-rock

4. Saffron-headed Parrot

5. Rufous-fronted Parakeet

These two Swallow-tailed Nightjars were much appreciated along the Montezuma road! (Chris Venetz)

Classic Colombia 2020 reports - BIRDQUEST · 2020. 12. 10. · 3 BirdQuest Tour Report: Classic...

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Transcript of Classic Colombia 2020 reports - BIRDQUEST · 2020. 12. 10. · 3 BirdQuest Tour Report: Classic...