Photos with this report (click to enlarge) | |||
 Bahia Tapaculo |
 Stresmann's Bristlefront |
 Collared Crescent-chest |
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 Sincora Antwren |
 Slender Antbird |
 Sao Fransisco Sparrow |
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BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY OF THE TRIP.
Moira and I had a great trip to North East Brazil in 2007 with Ciro Albano as our guide and in 2008 we were looking for another area of Brazil to visit following the conclusion of Graeme’s latest stint as a volunteer guide at Cristalino. Since 2007 we had kept in touch with Ciro, whose reputation as a formidable guide were growing with each trip. In parallel with his reputation his knowledge of birds and sites was also growing steadily and now included a number of areas in southern Bahia which support many endangered and hard to find species. We therefore soon agreed an itinerary which included Boa Nova, Chapada de Diamantina, Port Seguro as well as other less well known sites like Serra Bonita and the Fazenda Michelin at Itubera.
Our friend Arthur Grosset agreed to join us on the trip and shortly after he signed up Ciro suggested that we should make a ( long ) excursion to Bandeira just over the border in Minas Gerais to look for the critically endangered Stresmann’s Bristlefront. The final itinerary and some of the key birds therefore were as follows.
Day 01: Salvador – Itubera (Bahia Tapaculo)
Day 02: Itubera – UNA (White-winged Pooto)
Day 03: Una – Camacan and Serra Bonita (Pink-legged Graveteiro)
Day 04: Camacan – Porto Seguro (Banded Cotinga ;Hook Billed Hermit)
Day 05: Porto Seguro
Day 06: Porto Seguro – Bandeira
Day 07: Bandeira – Mata de Balbina (Stresemann’s Bristlefront)
Day 08: Bandeira to Boa Nova
Day 09: Boa Nova( Slender Antbird & Narrow-billed Antwren, Bahia Tyrannulet, )
Day 10: Boa Nova to Chapada Dimantina(Sincora Antwren; Diamantina Tapaculo; Horned Sungem)
Day 11: Mucuge - Lençois (Sao Fransisco Sparrow; Hooded Visorbearer)
Day 12: Lençóis – Sauípe (Fringe-backed Fire-eye)
Day 13: Sauípe and cerrado at Camaçari
Day 14: Salvador
In the event due to a misunderstanding over arrival times we had to rejig the itinerary and work it back to front but in the end it worked well; mainly due to Ciro’ s hard work, particularly on the long drives and his terrific guiding skills.
In 13 days we saw around 300 species of which the highlights were a number of endangered and critically endangered species including Stresmann’s Bristlefront, Bahia Tapaculo, Diamantina Tapaculo, Narrow-billed Antwren, Rio de Janeiro & Scalloped Antbird, Sincora Antwren Spot-breasted Antvireo, Pink-legged Gravateiro, Striated Softail, Hooded Visorbearer, Sao Fransisco Sparrow, Bahia Spinetail and a host of regional endemics. We didn’t miss many, the difficult Banded Cotinga and Hook-billed Hermit at Veracel being the most obvious and somehow Fringe-backed Fire-eye remained invisible at Saiupe.
We had a great time and this trip report tries to provide information that will be of use to future birders as well as a log of what we saw and where we saw it. It does so under the following headings.
• Guide
• Site Information and Accomodation
• Daily Account
• Bird Species List
In providing this information we would observe that driving across the vast expanses of southern Bahia is no easy matter, distances are vast and road signs poor to non-existent. Sites can also be difficult to find and, even when you do find them, gate keys ( often held in local houses) access permits or detailed directions through unmarked fields or plantations may be needed to get in. To complicate matters no-one speaks English. It is likely to be much more rewarding and relaxing to use a local guide and in our view the one who does it best is highlighted in the next section.
GUIDE
As already noted we travelled again with Ciro Albano who we judge to be as one of the finest guides we have come across anywhere, not just in Brazil. He has a rare ability to memorise calls, even when only heard briefly, has the most acute ear and is able to quickly identify birds to sub-species level based upon voice. The most remarkable example of this was a small Treehunter of uncertain affinities which we saw at Serra Bonita. This bird had never been seen there before, Ciro had only recently received a copy of the recording from another site, yet still managed to pick it out from a noisy canopy flock. Exceptional.!
Ciro is very responsive to e-mail during pre-trip planning and works tirelessly during the trip particularly on the long demanding drives between sites and carries a vast array of recording and camera, equipment, wires leads and speakers in his voluminous pockets. He is also a thoroughly nice guy who we would recommend without qualification. http://ciroalbano.multiply.com/
SITE INFORMATION and ACCOMMODATION
Some of the sites we visited such as Chapada Diamantina, Porto Seguro are well know and already covered in many Trip Reports on the web.
Boa Nova is located in southwestern Bahia , enclosed within the Vitória da Conquista plateau, and is significant because of its unique and diverse bird community, with typical elements of the montane Atlantic Forests in contact with endemic elements of the Caatinga biome. In this transitional area lies a dry vegetation formation known as mata-de-cipó, locality for the threatened Slender Antbird, one of the rarest antbirds in Brazil, and the Narrow-billed Antwren. There are more than 350 bird species reported for Boa Nova, 10 of them globally threatened with extinction. There is a Birdlife Field Manager at Boa Nova, Edson Ribeiro Luiz who can help with arrangements. Accommodation is in the Hotel Solar.
Serra Bonita is becoming well known for its extraordinary biodiversity and scenic beauty. One of the last remnants of moist submontane forest in the region, it covers an area of approximately 7,500 hectares (18,525 acres) located in the municipalities of Camacan and Pau Brasil, 130 km from the tourist town of Ilhéus on the Atlantic Coast and 526 km from the State capital of Salvador. The mountain range has a unique habitat with important altitudinal gradients of native Atlantic Forest (200 to 950 meters above sea level).
Birdlife/ SAVE Brazil has designated SBR as an Important Bird Area. A preliminary study estimated that some 400 species of birds inhabit the mountain range of which 9 are threatened and 59 are endemic to the Atlantic Forest. The SBR is also the only designated protected area that preserves the habitat of the Pink-legged Gravateiro a genus and species discovered recently (1996) and whose range is restricted to this region. The lodge and the Uiracu Institute that owns it is the vision of a renowned Brazilian entymologist, the engaging Dr Vitor Becker, who has sunk most of his life savings into acquiring parcels of forest and whose drive to save this remnant submontane forest desrves all our support. It’s a fantastic place. Contact Dr Becker at
http://www.uiracu.org.br/en//index.html
Mata de Balbina is about 8kms from Bandeira in Minas Gerais and is about the only place in the world you have an outside chance of Stresmann’s Bristlefront. The site is difficult to find and we benefitted from Nick Athanas’s generosity in providing Ciro with a GPS reference but the following link to Andrew Whitehouse’s notes should be sufficient to get you there. Unlike Whitehouse we did not stay in Bandeira ( c 8kms from the site) preferring the better accommodation and eating options of Macarani although the drive is much longer – about 38kms. http://www.birdforum.net/showthread.php?t=122096&highlight=balbina
DAILY ACCOUNT
24 October (Day 0)
Long lie and breakfast at 08.30 then idled the morning away before checking out at 14.00. Had lunch and departed Cuiaba on time arriving in Salvador via Brasilia on time at 11.00 despite some confusion over which time zone we were in. Bags came off quickly and we emerged to find the bearded bear that is Ciro Albano waiting for us. Drove north 45kms to Sauipe, checked in to the basic beach side hotel, had a quick beer and in bed by 00.30.
25 October (Day 1)
A short night saw us up at 05.00, to join Arthur and Ciro for breakfast before heading out to the Parque Sauipe 15 minutes away where we were met by one of the local staff at what I think is a huge water treatment plant owned by a company called Cetrel but which is surrounded by forest. The very local endemic Fringe-backed Fire-eye was the principal target but despite walking the trails for an hour and playing tapes at known territories we saw and heard nothing of the bird. The forest was very dry and perhaps that was the reason but it was an unfortunate start. There were some birds around Golden-capped Parakeet, Blue-crowned Trogon Bahia Antwren, Sooretama Slaty Antshrike and a Tropical Screech Owl using one of the nesting boxes provided. Ciro was clearly disappointed but said that he knew of another place that we could try. Back to the main highway where after 30 minutes fast driving we struggled to find the entry road that would take us through the non-native eucalyptus to the remaining native restinga forest inside. We eventually found the place but the Fire-eye again failed to show up although we did see Blue-backed Manakin and Scaled Antbird.
Went back to the hotel and checked out at 10.45, somewhat later than planned, and embarked on the long drive to Lencois at the base of the Chapada da Diamantina. The drive took some 6 hours along the BR116 via Itaberaba and then BR242 and we arrived at Lencois around 17.30 to see hundreds of Biscutate Swifts circling overhead. Checked into the comfortable Casa da Geleia and enjoyed an excellent dinner in one of the many restaurants in the charming old town.
26 October (Day 2)
Departed 04.15 for the drive to Palmeiras where we turned off onto the dirt road that leads to Guine. Parked the car and on a delightful morning began walking finding the caatinga on either side of the road alive with birds. Ulramarine Grosbeak, Planalto Slaty Antshrike, Broad-tipped Hermit, Caatinga Antwren, Caatinga and Silver-cheeked Antshrike, Planalto Tyrannulet, Pearly-vented Tody tyrant, Long-billed Wren and Spotted Piculet all showed well but the key bird for the road the Sao Francisco Sparrow initially proved elusive. This mega-skulker is also usually relatively silent and it was only through Ciro’s focus and excellent hearing the we eventually heard the soft chip that betrayed the bird’s presence deep in a bush. However as we all got down on our hands and knees to look for the bird to our great surprise another bird started calling loudly from an exposed perch providing unusually good views. Perhaps this unusual behaviour can be attributed to the start of the breeding season.
We returned to the car seeing Tropical Parula, Burnished Buff Tanager Bran-coloured &Yellow-breasted Flycatcher and Sooty Spinetail. It had been a great morning and still not yet 10.00 am. Stopped off in Palmeiras to pick up some snacks before driving up the Morro do Pai Inacio one of the huge quartz outcrops that have resisted erosion and are a feature of the landscape and where the summits have very individual flora; mainly small scrubland bushes, orchids and cactus. Climbed up the rocky path to a small plateau area just below the summit where the air was filled with the scent of herbs and were delighted to quickly find the extraordinary Hooded Visorbearer. The bird seemed unresposive to and somewhat disinterested in the tape preferring to perch on a shrub a-top a rocky incline. Accordingly the photographers had to scramble to get close enough for photographs and here again the bird seemd equally disinterested in the humans, allowing very close approach. Velvety Shrike Tyrant, Hooded Siskin and Pale-throated Serra Finch completed the cast.
Around mid-day we returned to Lencois, checked out and headed off to Mucuge stopping close to the town to bird the cerrado "campos rupestres" or rocky grassland; home of the the recently described Sincora Antwren.. Walking along a sandy track in very dry vegetation it took a while but eventually we had great views of this species. Checked into the comfortable hotel in Mucuge.
27 October (Day 3)
Checked out at 05.00 and drove out into the surrounding “campo sujo” where the vegetation seemed very dry and at first glance lifeless. However we were soon hearing and seeing birds, Aplomado Falcon, Rufous-sided Pygmy Tyrant, White-backed Tanager, Pearly-vented Tody Tyrant and the marvellous Collared Crescentchest. The cerrado is home to one of the world’s great hummingbirds, the elegant, but elusive and erratic, Horned Sungem and we were very lucky when one whizzed in to perch briefly, allowing a quick look at is finery, before zipping off. Continuing along the track we saw Small-billed Tinamou, Rufous-winged Antshrike, Rusty-bellied Antwren and Tawny-crested Pygmy Tyrant among others before it was time to head off to our next stop. We drove for about 45 minutes before turning off on the road to Ibicoara where we pulled up at a bridge over the Paraguacu River where the range resticted Diamantina Tapaculo responded instantly to tape giving us good views but poor photos. The fairly comon Stripe-tailed Yellow-Finch, which we had missed at Morro do Pai Inancio stubbornly refused to appear in the rocky fields surrounding the river but we did have extended views of another Hooded Visorbear feeding in a flowering bush by the road.
Around 10.30 we headed off on the long drive to Boa Nova on the BA 142 passing through Barra de Estiva, and Ituacu before joining the BR 407 heading for Vitoria da Conquista to rejoin the BR116 north and finally the BA30 for Boa Nova. Checked into the clean but basic Solar Hotel and met up with Edson from Birdlife before heading out of town to a complex of rocky areas among scattered low growing cactus and bromeliad vegation. Known locally in Portuguese as "lajeiro" the large, flat rocks supported beautiful small cacti with individual segmented pink flowers whose blooms provided food for a range of of hummingbirds. Up to 13 species can be seen here in the wet season. We were there in the dry but still manged to see Fork-tailed, Swallow-tailed and Ruby-Topaz Hummingbird, Sapphire Spangled and Glittering-bellied Emerald, Planalto Hermit as well as Pygmy Nightjar on the rocks and female Slender Antbird among the ground dwelling bromeliads around the “lajeiro”. Pizza and beer in a pink gay restaurant in the town square were a fitting full stop to a great day.
28 October (Day 4)
Breakfast 05.00, Edson joined us and we drove the few kilometres out of town to the humid forest. Leaving the car Ciro heard Rio de Janeiro Antbird calling but it would not respond to the tape whereas Tufted Antshrike reacted very angrily giving brief views.We spent virtually the entire morning walking the very productive trail recording about 40 species including Bahia Spinetail, White-throated & Buff-throated Foliage Gleaner, Blue & Pin-tailed Mankin, Striated Softtail, Fork-tailed Tody Tyrant, Black-billed Scythebill, Eared Pygmy Tyrant, Sepia-capped Flycatcher, Bahia Tyrannulet and Pallid Spinetail. Around 11.00am the activity level dropped and we returned to the car trying once again unsuccessfully for Rio de Janiero Antbird.
Back in town we took an early lunch of snacks and cokes followed by a siesta until 15.00 when we drove out to a patch of dry forest. The dry forest habitat is known locally as "mata de cipó" and is a bit like caatinga but with less thorns and with these curious ground bromeliads known as "gravata" which gives the Slender Antbird the local name of "gravatazeiro". Whatever its name the habitat looked too dry to support anything but thanks to Ciro we managed to see and photograph some great birds including male and female Slender &Stripe-backed Antbird, Narrow-billed Antwren and Hang-nest Tody Tyrant. Our objective achieved we then returned to the cactus filled rocky outcrops for the hummingbird show before returning to town at dusk for dinner.
29 October (Day5)
Today we were in search of the” Boa Nova” Tapaculo a form Scytalopus species of uncertain affinities but with a very different and persistent call. We left the Hotel Solar at 05.15 taking the same road as yesterday but driving on past the humid forest. Arriving around 06.00 we walked through fields and entered the forest seeing Ferruginous & White-bibbed Antbird. The Scytalopus sp. nov. seems to prefer “grottos” or deep bowl like depressions found on either side of the trail and after about an hours walk we arrived at one of these sites. Unfortunately the bird, apparently usually responsive, remained utterly silent as we repeatedly played its persistent call and so we moved further down the hill to another “grotto” with the same result. There were other birds to keep us interested Brazilian Ruby, Sombre Hummingbird, Stripe-throated Hermit but of the tapaculo there was no sign. Edson told us there was a third site nearby so we walked back up the trail and took another smaller trail off to the let. As we approached Ciro played the tape and had an instant response a short distance away. We headed off the trail into the forest played the tape again and got another response much closer. However we then screwed things up by making too much noise as we crashed about and the bird disappeared back down the hill towards the area from which we had just come. Went back down the hill but by now the bird had decided to keep its head down and we missed it. With a bit more caution we might well have seen it. It sounds like an interesting species.
Departed the forest, encountering a mixed tanager flock including Red-crowned, Ornate, Ssayaca, Burnished-buff & Gilt-edged Tanger and Blue-naped Chlorophonia. Returning to Boa Nova we packed and left around11.15 for the long drive to Macarani on the border of Bahia and Minas Gerais which would be the base for our attempt for the critically endangered Stresmann’s Bristlefront in the hills above Bandeira. We drove back to Vitoria da Conquista on the, I think, BA 263 to the BR415 to Itapetinga and and then on a dirt road ( perhaps the BA270) for 30-40kms finally ariving in Macarani at 15.30. On arrival the manager of the Pousada Mangerosa (who refused to take bookings in advance) told us that we could not check in until 17.00. We decided to use the time to try and find the Bristlefront site as we would be doing it in the dark tomorrow. Nick Athanas who had recently visited the site had generously given Ciro his GPS waypoints so we headed out of town west on the road to Bandeiara. Crossing the Minas Gerais border we drove about 40 kms until the GPS indicated we should branch off to the left on a rough track and then after about a further 2kms take the left fork down into a valley across a stream until we could go no further. This put us about 3 to 4kms from the site accessed by some steep tracks through the hills to a forest fragment in the ridge above us. Returning at speed it took us an hour to get back to Macarani where we checked in to the hotel; went shopping for tomorrow’s provisions, had dinner in the town square and were in bed by 20.30 for our early start tomorrow.
30 October (Day 6)
The alarm went off at 02.30 and following coffee and biscuits we left the hotel at 03.10 and drove to the spot we had stopped at on last nights reconnoitre. The climb was a bit steep and we progressed slowly but steadily reaching the edge of the remnant forest on the hill top ridge at 05.40. A couple of cigarettes restored those out of breath from the walk and one of the first birds we saw proved to be a pair of Piculets that do not fit with species currently described in literature and which are being studied by Brazilian Ornithologists. We then had some breakfast and began to walk the ridge. Ciro played the tape of the Bristlefront; nearly having a heart attack when the bird immediately responded albeit some way off the trail in the valley below. We scrambled down the steep slope, sat down, played the tape and again the bird responded this time much closer. However, try as we might we could not get the bird to come in; so after an hour or so we walked across the slope in the direction from which it was calling. Playing the tape the bird called back but seemed to have again moved just keeping its distance from us. We moved closer but were frustrated by impenetrable vegetation. While the bird continued to respond it would not come in and evidently we could not get to it so, around 09.00, somewhat frustrated, we returned to the trail and walked some way along the steep and uneven path seeing some commoner species including Sharpbill, Wing-barred Piprites and Long-tailed Tyrant. After an hour during which we had not heard any other Bristlefront we decided to retrace our steps encountering Oustatlet’s Tyrannulet, Streak-capped Antwren, White-wedged Piculet, Yellow-green Grosbeak and Black-headed Berry pecker and Fork-tailed Tody Tyrant.
We took a break, ate some food and around 12.30 descended once again into the gully where we had heard the bird earlier. As we reached the bottom we heard Rio de Janeiro Antbird which provided us with good views before we bushwhacked our way across to the area where the Bristlefront had been calling, this time descending into a dry riverbed and sitting on the far bank which offered a good panorama. Ciro played the tape and again the bird responded immediately this time very close off to our right but in about the only area where we could not see. Arthur and Ciro both saw the bird but for what seemed ages we were denied a view and moving was out of the question. However, finally, a female Stresmann’s Bristlefront, one of the world’s rarest and least know species, walked slowly into view turning over leaves looking for insects and calling very occasionally before wandering off up the slope. Happy and relieved we headed back up the slope and having seen the star bird of the trip decided that we should just start back down to the car. Rio de Janeiro Antbird showed well on the forest edge with White-shouldered Fure-eye, Masked Yellowthroat, Common Thornbill, Euler’s Flycatcher, Little & Yellow-fronted Woodpecker. Arriving back in Macarani we bought some beers, went back to the hotel and relaxed before heading out for more beers and a good steak dinner in last nights restuarant.
(Note: Until recently, this reclusive tapaculo was known from just two specimens: the type, collected near Salvador in the 1830s, and a second taken near Ilhéus in 1945, in coastal Bahia, Brazil, although a third (of unknown provenance) was located subsequently (in Berlin), having probably been collected in the early 19th century. It was rediscovered in 1995 when a single bird was tape-recorded and photographed near Una, Bahia. Although there have been no subsequent records from this locality despite searching (G. M. Kirwan in litt. 2006), the species has also been found in the Jequitinhonha Valley, Minas Gerais, near the border with Bahia where in 2004 Romulo Robin discovered a few birds in this small forest remnant.
31 October (Day 7)
Long-lie until 06.15, checked out at 07.00 and had breakfast at a local paderia and began the drive to the beach resort of Port Seguro which took about 4 hours. On arrival we checked into the Pousada Araras and headed out for a great lunch at Restaurant Portinho one of many good restaurants in this beachfront resort town. After a seista we drove the 20 or so kilometres to theVeracel PR, an area of lowland forest. Even although it was by now mid-late afternoon it was still pretty hot and birds were hard to come by with White-capped, Red-headed & Eastern-crowned Manakin being the best. We returned to the hotel around18.15 ate more great food; the local seafood dish of mocecquas.
01 November (Day 8)
Departed 04.30 for the Veracel PR where female White-winged Cotinga was an early success. Plain Parakeet and Red-browed Parrot flew by and we gradually accumulated some commoner species White-bearded Manakin, White-bellied Tanager, White-chinned Sapphire, Crested Becard, Bahia Antwren, White-fringed Antwren . While walking part of the trail Ciro heard the much wanted Hook-billed Hermit as it zipped by, no-one seeing it. Because there were flowering heliconias AG remained at the spot where we heard the bird in the hope that it’s trap lining schedule would bring it back Others headed back along the trail in the vehicle seeing the local Reichenow’s Blue-headed Parrot but little else. Returned to pick up AG and drove further along the sandy road where some roadside flowers were full of hummers including Rufous-throated &White-throated Sapphire, Swallow-tailed Hummingbird. Peach-fronted Parakeet and nearby Chestnut-backed Antshrike also showed well. By late morning it was hot and activity low so we went back to Porto Seguro for another excellent lunch. Retuned to the park at 15.30 slowly driving the sandy track looking for perched up Banded or White-winged Cotinga. While the former unfortunately remained invisible we had great scope views of male White-winged Cotinga. Late in the afternoon while walking the trail Ciro once again heard Hook-billed Hermit not once but twice near a patch of heliconias but despite waiting a while we could not find the bird. Perched Red-browed Parrot were excellent though. Another excellent seafood dinner.
02 November (Day 9)
Tried again in the early morningfor the uncommon/rare Hook-billed Hermit and Banded Cotinga at Veracel but came up empty. Returned to Porto Seguro packed, finally found an ATM that would give us some money eventually departing at 11.00. From Porto Seguro west on the BR367 back to the BR101 and north through Euanopolis turning off to go through the town of Camacan finally reaching the base of the hill for Serra Bonita RPPN around 16.00 where we were met by the owner, the engaging Dr Vitor Becker. His optimistic asssessment that our vehicle could make it up the steep track proved accurate but it cost us a broken exhaust . However, once up the hill, we found ourselves in the most delightful of surroundings ; a wonderful lodge, isolated in the midst of a large patch of remnant hilltop Atlantic forest where we passed the rest of the day watching an array of hummingbirds and tanagers on the feeders having already seen Crescent-chested Puffbird, Maroon-bellied Parakeet and Yellow-legged Thrush on the walk from our rooms to the main building.. Vito Becker is a semi-retired eminent Brazilian entymologist and after enjoying a caiparihna we went inside to see his extraordinary collection of 250,000 moths encompassing many thousands of species. Extraordinary!
03 November (Day 10)
Out at 05.00 for Spot-billed Toucanet outside the bedroom door, we then walked the lower trail contouring the hillside which was absolutely full of birds. By 08.00 we had seen over 30 different species of birds no more than 800 metres from the lodge including Pink-legged Gravateiro ( several birds at their large stick nests), Pallid Spinetail, Plumbeous and Spot-breasted Antvireo. Yellow-legged &White-throatedThrush, White-eyed Foliage-gleaner, Ferruginous Antbird, Tufted Antshrike and Three-striped Flycatcher. Following breakfast we walked out again seeing many of the same species but adding Black Hawk Eagle and Mantled Hawk before we took a break at 13.30. Over lunch we decided that we were enjoying Serra Bonita so much we would remain for another day rather than head off the following day for the outside chance of White-winged Potoo at Una.
After lunch we went up to the top of the hill to the radio towers ( the original reason for the access road) where we spent some time being shown around by Vitor who understandably was very anxious about a large fire burning out of control further down the hillside. It was therefore a bit late when we finally started down the trail and thus a little quiet until, from within a flock, Ciro’s extraordinary senses picked out a new and unfamiliar sound which turned out to be a species of small Treehunter of uncertain affinities and never seen before at Serra Bonita RPPN. We spent some time looking at this bird and, already late, had to rush the latter part of the trail to get back in daylight but did manage to see Black-billed Scythebill and Such’s Antthrush.
04 November (Day 11)
Once again out on the trail at 05.00 where Pink-legged Gravateiro was again evident together with many of the same species as yesterday providing great photo opportunities. Pale-browed Treecreeper, Planalto Woodcreeper, Long-tailed Tyrant, Tropical Pewee, Streaked Xenops, Rufous-winged Antwren showed well as did a pair of elegant Swallow-tailed Cotinga much to the great delight of CA and AG The owl tape brought in the usual flock and the Least Pygmy Owl itself but we had a repair shop to visit and a long drive ahead so we returned for breakfast departing 09.45. Ciro expertly negotiated the steep hill and we headed off to the garage for repairs which did not take long. Back on the BR101 heading north and then the BA001the stench of rubber confirmed that we had arrived at the Michelin Rubber Plantation around 15.30. Checked in to our very upmarket accommodation in the middle of this enormous plantation in what is known as the Michelin Ecological Reserve. Drove back out from the plantation and a short distance up the road to the Cachoeira de Pancada Grande where hundreds of Great Dusky Swift and a few White-collared Swift put on a great display flying in and out and perching on the rock face of the waterfall. Drove in to Itubera for dinner and met up briefly with Zedomar who was to be the guide tomorrow.
05 November 05 November (Day 12)
Coffee at 04.30 and began the drive through the bewilderingl maze ofplantation roads finally reaching the native foret around 05.45. Our search for the critically endangered Bahia Tapaculo was delayed somewhat by a very showy Pheasant Cuckoo but soon we were at the site for the bird in a wet muddy part of the forest close to a stream. The bird refused to respond so we walked to a different site where another bird soon called back and we enjoyed great views, if not photographs, as it strolled around the forest floor. This ultra-rare species was a great end to the highlight species of the trip but we saw many more birds on the way out including Scalloped Antbird,Band-tailed Antwren, Ferruginous Antbird, White-flanked Antwren, Olivaceus Flatbill, River Warbler, Orange-headed and Brazilian Tanager,Spot-backed Puffbird and Margaretta’s Hummingbird for Ciro.
We departed the Michelin Reserve around 11.00 and drove north to Itubera and onward on the BA001 to Valenca then the BA542 to San Antonio de Jesus and finally to Itaparica on the BA028 where we were lucky to catch an immediate ferry to Salvador, the original colonial capital of Brazil. Thanks to AG’s navigational and map reading skills we managed to get through Salvador and finally on the BA099 we arrive at the beach front town of Arembepe where we checked into the tatty looking but ultimately congenial surroundings of the Otubarao Junior Hotel.Caiparhinas preceded an excellent seafood dinner in a beach side restaurant and a further caiparihnas was taken back at the hotel to celebrate the electoral success of Barack Obama.
06 November (Day 13)
Bade farewell to Arthur and Ciro at Salvador airport where our flight to Sao Paulo was on time. Checked in for the flight back to London and whiled the time away before heading off through Immigration where to our astonishment, horror and annoyance GW was informed that he had exceeded his authorised stay in Brazil and if he ever wanted to return would have to pay a fine upon arrival. In reality GW had not exceeded the 90 day visa period but for reasons that remain unexplained and without logic the immigration officer on the way in had “authorised” only 27 days without bothering to point this out other than to scribble it on the foot of the visa paper that you have to surrender on the way out. ( Subsequent calls to the Brazilian Embassy Visa section to try and seek explanation in London have proved fruitless ) An unfortunate end but a great trip.
TINAMIFORMES: Tinamidae
Solitary Tinamou ( Tinamus solitarius) H. Near-threatened
Heard in the Mata de Balbina above Bandeira 30/10.
Little Tinamou ( Crypurellus soui) H.
Heard on the sandy track at Veracel PR near Port Seguro 01/11.
Brown Tinamou ( Crypurellus sobsoletus) H.
Heard regularly at Mata de Balbina 30/10 and Veracel PR 01/11.
Yellow-legged Tinamou ( Crypurellus noctivagus zabele) H. Endemic Near-threatened
ss. “zabele” in the forest at Saiupe 25/10.
Small-billed Tinamou( Crypurellus parvirostris)
Seen in the cerrado west of Mucuge27/10 and another at Mata de Balbina 30/10.
Red-winged Tinamou (Rhynchotus rufescens)
A single in the humid forest at Boa Nova 29/10.
White-bellied Nothura (Nothura boraquira)
Seen crossing the road on the drive from Boa Nova to Macarani 29/10.
PODICIPEDIFORMES: Podicipedidae
Least Grebe (Tachybaptus dominicus)
In a roadside pond between Mucuge and Boa Nova on 27/10.
Pied-billed Grebe (Podilymbus podiceps)
In a roadside pond between Mucuge and Boa Nova on 27/10.
CICONIIFORMES: Ardeidae
Great Egret (Ardea alba)
At Sauipe 25/10 and in a roadside pond between Mucuge and Boa Nova on 27/10
Snowy Egret (Egretta thula)
At Sauipe 25/10 and in a roadside pond between Mucuge and Boa Nova on 27/10.
Cattle Egret (Bubulcus ibis)
Common
ANSERIFORMES: Anatidae
White-faced Whistling-Duck (Dendrocygna viduata)
In a roadside pond between Mucuge and Boa Nova on 27/10.
Brazilian Teal (Amazonetta brasiliensis)
In a roadside pond between Mucuge and Boa Nova on 27/10.
White-cheeked Pintail (Anas bahamensis)
In a roadside pond between Mucuge and Boa Nova on 27/10.
Southern Pochard (Netta erythrophthalma)
In a roadside pond between Mucuge and Boa Nova on 27/10.
FALCONIFORMES: Cathartidae
Black Vulture (Coragyps atratus)
Common
Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura)
Common
Lesser Yellow-headed Vulture (Cathartes burrovianus)
A single bird in open country near Boa Nova 29/10
FALCONIFORMES: AccipitridaeFALCONIFORMES: Accipitridae
Grey-headed Kite (Leptodon cayanensis)
One flew over the forest at Veracel PR 01/11.
Plumbeous Kite ( Ictinia plumbea )
One flew over the forest at Veracel PR 01/11.
Roadside Hawk (Buteo magnirostris)
Seen on 5 dates on the long drives through Southern Bahia.
Mantled Hawk (Leucopternis polionotus)
One at Boa Nova 28/10 and 2 at Serra Bonita RPPN 03/11.
Black Hawk-Eagle (Spizaetus tyrannus)
One at Serra Bonita RPPN 03/11.
FALCONIFORMES: Falconidae
Southern Caracara (Caracara plancus )
Several birds daily around Boa Nova 27-29/10 and at Serra Bonita RPPN 03/11.
Yellow-headed Caracara (Milvago chimachima)
Several seen in open country around Chapada Diamantina 25&26/10.
American Kestrel (Falco sparverius)
A single seen in open country around Chapada Diamantina 26/10.
Aplomado Falcon (Falco femoralis)
A pair over the ”gerais” west of Mucuge 27/10.
GALLIFORMES: Cracidae
Speckled Chachalaca (Ortalis guttata)
Seen briefly in the ”gerais” west of Mucuge 27/10.
Rusty-margined Guan (Penelope superciliaris) H.
Heard in the humid forest at Boa Nova 28/10.
GALLIFORMES: Odontophoridae
Spot-winged Wood-Quail (Odontophorus capueira) H.
Heard in the forest at Fazenda Michelin 05/11.
GRUIFORMES: Rallidae
Common Moorhen (Gallinula chloropus)
In a roadside pond between Mucuge and Boa Nova on 27/10.
Spot-flanked Gallinule ( Galinula melanops)
In a roadside pond between Mucuge and Boa Nova on 27/10.
GRUIFORMES: Cariamidae
Wattled Jacana (Jacana jacana)
In a roadside pond between Mucuge and Boa Nova on 27/10.
CHARADRIIFORMES: Charadriidae
Southern Lapwing (Vanellus chilensis)
In a roadside pond between Mucuge and Boa Nova on 27/10.
CHARADRIIFORMES: Scolopacidae
Solitary Sandpiper (Tringa solitaria)
In a roadside pond between Mucuge and Boa Nova on 27/10.
Greater Yellowlegs (Tringa melanoleuca)
In a roadside pond between Mucuge and Boa Nova on 27/10.
Ruddy Turnstone (Arenaria interpres)
7 or 8 birds on the rocky beach ar Arembepe 05/11.
Sanderling (Calidris alba)
A few on the rocky beach ar Arembepe 05/11.
Semipalmated Plover (Charadrius semipalmatus)
A few on the rocky beach ar Arembepe 05/11.
COLUMBIFORMES: Columbidae
Scaled Pigeon (Patagioenas aquammata)
A single bird perched hih at Veracel PR 01/11.
Picazuro Pigeon (Patagioenas picazuro)
In the cerrado west of Mucuge 27/10 and on the forest edge at Boa Nova 29/10.
Pale-vented Pigeon (Patagioenas cayanensis)
A few in Veracel PR 31/10 & 01/11
Plumbeous Pigeon (Patagioenas plumbea)
At Serra Bonita RPPN 03/11.
Ruddy Ground-Dove (Columbina talpacoti)
Common
Picui Ground-Dove (Columbina picui)
Several seen daily 27-29/10 in the countryside around Boa Nova
Scaled Dove (Columbina squammata)
A couple on the edge of town at Boa Nova28/10.
White-tipped Dove (Leptotila verrauxi)
On the way to the humid forest at Boa Nova 28/10.
PSITTACIFORMES: Psittacidae
Golden-capped Parakeet ( Aratinga auricapillus) Endemic Near-threatened
We saw the subspecies auracapillus in flight at Sauipe on 25/10 and the subspecies aurifrons at Veracel PR near Porti Seguro 02/11
Peach-fronted Parakeet (Arating aaurea)
Two perched birds at Veracel PR on 01/11
Caatinga (Cactus) Parakeet (Aratinga cactorum) Endemic
Several pairs or small groups seen in flight on 26&27/10 around Chapada de Diamatina.
Blue-throated ( Ochre –marked )Parakeet ( Pyrrhura cruentata) Endemic Vulnerable
Flight views at Veracel PR on31/10 with a couple perched the following day.
Maroon-bellied Parakeet( Pyrrhura frontalis)
At Mata de Balbina 30/10 and then excellent views at Serra Bonita RPPN 02&03/11.
Plain Parakeet ( Brotogeris tirica) Endemic
Seen fairly regularly particularly Veracl PR 01&02/11 and Serra Bonita RPPN 02-04/11.
Blue-headed Parrot ( Pionus menstruus)
Seen at Veracel PR 01/11; the form here “reichenowi” sometimes regarded as a full species Reichenows Blue-headed Parrot.
Scaly-headed Parrot ( Pyrrhura frontalis)
In the cerrado west of Mucuge 27/10
Red-browed Parrot ( Amazona rhodocorytha) Endemic Endangered
Great views of several perched birds at Veracel PR 31/10-01/11.
CUCULIFORMES: Cuculidae
Squirrel Cuckoo (Piaya cayana)
Common
Smooth-billed Ani (Crotophaga ani)
In the hunid forest at Boa Nova 29/10 and at Serra Bonita RPPN 03/11
Guira Cuckoo (Guira guira)
Common
Pheasant Cuckoo(Dromococcyx phasianellus)
A pair at Fazenda Michelin 05/11.
STRIGIFORMES: Strigidae
Tropical Screech Owl (Megascops choliba)
At Sauipe 25/10 and on the Palmeiras – Guine road, Chapada da Diamantina 26/10
Least Pygmy Owl (Glaucidiumminitissimum)
In the forest at Boa Nova 29/10 and at Serra Bonita RPPN 04/11.
Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia)
In open country around Boa Nova26&27/10.
CAPRIMULGIFORMES: Caprimulgidae
Short-tailed Nighthawk (Lurocalis semitorquatus)
At dusk near Boa Nova 27/10.
Pauraque (Nyctidromus albicollis)
At Serra Bonita RPPN 04/11 and the Michelin Reserve near Itubera 05/11.
Pygmy Nightjar (Caprimulgus hirundinaceus) Endemic
Roosting on the rocks above the forest at Boa Nova 27/10.
APODIFORMES: Apodidae
White-collared Swift ( Streptoprocne zonaris )
Small numbers at the waterfall At the Cachoeira de Pancada Grande near Itubera 04/11
Biscutate Swift (Streptoprocne biscutata)
Hundreds of birds of the ss.”seridoensis” flying over Lencois 25/10.
Great Dusky Swift ( Cypseloides senex)
Hundreds at the waterfall At the Cachoeira de Pancada Grande near Itubera 04/11.
Grey-rumped Swift (Streptoprocne cineveventris)
Over the forest at Veracel PR 31/10-02/11.
TROCHILIFORMES: Trochilidae
Rufous-breasted (Hairy) Hermit (Glaucis hirsuta)
Daily at Serra Bonita 02-04/11.
Broad-tipped Hermit ( Anopetia gounellei ) Endemic
2 birds at their leks on the Palmeiras – Guine road, Chapada da Diamantina 26/10.
Planalto Hermit (Phaethornis pretrei)
In the forest and “hummingbird feeding ground” Boa Nova 27&28/10 and Serra Bonita RPPN 04/11.
Reddish Hermit (Phaethornis ruber)
Sauipe 25/10, Serra Bonita RPPN 03/11 and in the Michelin Reserve near Itubera 05/11
Scale-throated Hermit ( Phaethornis eurynome)
At Serra Bonita RPPN 02&03/11.
Sombre Hummingbird (Campylopterus cirrochloris) Endemic
In the forest at Boa Nova 29/10 and at Serra Bonita RPPN 02/11.
Swallow-tailed Hummingbird (Eupetomena macroura)
Seen regularly throughout the trip.
Black Jacobin (Florisuga fuscus)
At the feeders at Serrra Bonita 02/11.
Black-throated Mango (Anthracotharax nigricollis)
At the feeders at Serrra Bonita 02/11.
Ruby-topaz Hummingbird ( Chrysolampis mosquitus)
At the “hummingbird feeding ground” Boa Nova 27&28/10
Glittering-bellied Emerald (Chlorostilbon aureoventris)
On the Palmeiras – Guine road, Chapada da Diamantina 26/10 and at the “hummingbird feeding ground” Boa Nova 27&28/10.
Violet-capped Woodnymph ( Thalurania glaucopis)
At the feeders at Serra Bonita RPPN 02/11.
Rufous-throated Sapphire (Hylocharis sapphirina)
At Veracel PR 01&02/11.
White-chinned Sapphire (Hylocharis cyanus)
At Veracel PR 01&02/11.
Versicoloured Emerald (Amazilia versicolor)
In the hotel grounds at Lencois 25/10 .
Glittering-throated Emerald (Amazilia fimbriata )
On the Palmeiras – Guine road, Chapada da Diamantina 26/10.
Sappire-spangled Emerald (Amazilia lactea )
At the “hummingbird feeding ground” Boa Nova 27&28/10.
Brazilian Ruby (Clytolaema rubricauda ) Endemic
At the feeders at Serra Bonita RPPN 02/11and in the forest 03/11.
Hooded Visorbearer (Augastes lumachella ) Endemic Near-threatened
This amazing species seen on the Morro do Pai Inacio at Cha[ada da Diamantina 26/10 and in a flowering shrub by the roadsie at the Paraguacu River 27/10.
Horned Sungem ( Heliactin bilophus)
Another stunning hummingbird seen rather briefly in the cerrado west of Mucuge 27/10.
PICIFORMES: Trogonidae
White-tailed Trogon ( Trogon viridis)
Fairly common; seen regularly throughout the trip.
Blue-crowned Trogon ( Trogoncurucui)
One at Sauipe 25/10.
Black-throated Trogon ( Trogon rufus)
In the humid forest at Boa Nova 28/10.
PICIFORMES: Galbulidae
Rufous-tailed Jacamar (Galbula ruficauda)
At Fazenda Michelin 05/11.
PICIFORMES: Bucconidae
Spot-backed Puffbird (Nystalus maculatus)
One bird on the forest edge at the Michelin Reserve near Itubera 05/11.
Crescent-chested Puffbird (Malocoptila striata) Endemic
Another great puffbird at Serra Bonita RPPN 02&03/11.
Swallow-wing ( Chelidptera tenebrosa)
3 birds at the Veracel PR 01/11.
PICIFORMES: Ramphastidae
Channel-billed Toucan ( Ramphastos vitellinus)
Heard in the forest at Boa Nova, one seen at Serra Bonita RPPN 03/11
Spot-billed Toucanet (Selenidera maculirostris)
Heard in the forest at Boa Nova, a couple seen at Serra Bonita RPPN 02&03/11.
Red-necked Aracari
Seen at Veracela PR 31/10.
PICIFORMES: Picidae
Golden-spangled Piculet (Picumnus exilis)
ss. “exilis” heard Boa Nova 28/10, seen at Veracela PR 31/10.
Spotted Piculet (Picumnus pygmaeus) Endemic
On the Palmeiras – Guine road near Chapada da Diamantina 26/10
White-wedged Piculet (Picumnus albosquamatus)
2-3 birds in Mata de Balbina 30/10and at Serra Bonita RPPN 02&03/11.
Unknown Piculet(Picumnus sp. nova)
A piculet of uncertain affinity ( considered to be close to White barred Piculet ) in Mata de Balbina 30/10
Yellow-fronted Woodpecker ( Melanerpes flavifrons)
A pair in Mata de Balbina above Bandeira 30/10.
Red-stained Woodpecker (Veniliornis affinis)
At Veracel PR 01/11 and the Michelin Reserve at Itubera 05/11
Little Woodpecker (Veniliornis passerinus)
A pair in Mata de Balbina above Bandeira 30/10 and Serra Bonita RPPN 03/11.
Lineated Woodpecker (Dryocopus lineatus)
On the forest dge at Boa Nova 29/10.
Campo Flicker (Colaptes campestris)
In the countryside between Macarani and Bandeira 30/10.
PASSERIFORMES: Furnariidae
Wing-banded (Band-tailed or Tail-banded) Hornero (Furnarius figulus) Endemic
In a roadside pond between Mucuge and Boa Nova on 27/10.
Rufous Hornero (Furnarius rufus)
In open country near Bandeira 30/10
Bahia Spinetail (Synallaxis wgitneyi) Endemic Vulnerable
In the humid forest at Boa Nova 28/10 and Mata de Balbina 30/10
Sooty-fronted Spinetail (Synallaxis frontalis)
On the Palmeiras – Guine road, Chapada da Diamantina 26/10
Pale-breasted Spinetail (Synallaxis albescens)
In the humid forest at Boa Nova 28/10.
Spix’s (Chicli) Spinetail (Synallaxis spixi) H.
Heard only in the Mata de Balbina 30/10
Pallid Spinetail (Cranioleuca pallida) Endemic
In the humid forest at Boa Nova 28/10 and Serra Bonita RPPN 03/11.
Striated Softtail Endemic Vulnerable
In the humid forest at Boa Nova 28/10 and Mata de Balbina 30/10
Common (Rufous-fronted or Plain) Thornbird (Phacellodomus rufifrons)
In the scrubland surrounding Mata de Balbina near Bandeira 30/10
Pink-legged Graveteiro ( Acrobatornis fonsecai) Endemic Vulnerable
5-6 birds birds seen at their huge stick nests high in th canopy 03&04/11 at Serra Bonita RPPN.
Caatinga Cacholote (Pseudoseisura cristata) Endemic
In open country near Boa Nova 28/10.
Buff-fronted Foliage-gleaner (Philydor rufum)
In the humid forest a Boa Nova 28/10 and at Mata de Balbina 30/10.
White-collared Foliage-gleaner ( Anabazeops fuscus) Endemic
In the humid forest at Boa Nova 28/10.
Pale-browed Treehunter ( Cichlocolaptes leucophrus)
In the humid forest at Boa Nova 29/10
UnknownTreehunter (Heliobletus sp. nov)
A small Treehunter of unknown affinities in the forest at Serra Bonita 03/11
White-eyed Foliage-gleaner ( Automolus leucopthalmus)
A coule of birds at Serra Bonia 02&03/11.
Plain Xenops (Xenops minutus)
In the humid forest at Boa Nova 29/10 and at Veracel PR 31/10.
Streaked Xenops (Xenops rutilans)
At Serra Bonita RPPN 04/11 and Fazenda Michelin 05/11
Plain-winged ( Thrush-like) Woodcreeper (Dendrocincla turdinaa)
At Boa Nova 28/10, Mata de Balbina 30/10, and Serra Bonita RPPN 02&03/11.
Olivaceous Woodcreeper (Sittasomus griseicapillus)
ss. “olivaceus” in the humid forest at Boa Nova28/10.
Planalto Woodcreeper (Dendrocolaptes platyrostris)
ss. “platyrostris” at the Fazenda Michelin 05/11.
Lesser Woodcreeper (Xiphorhynchus fuscus)
ss. “tenuirostris” in the humid forest at Boa Nova 28/10, Mata de Balbina 30/10 and Serra Bonita RPPN 03/11.
Buff-throated Woodcreeper (Xiphorhynchus guttatus)
ss.”guttatus” at Veracel PR 31/10.
Scaled Woodcreeper (Lepidocolaptes squamatus)
In the humid forest at Boa Nova 29/10
Red-billed Scythebill (Campylorhamphus trochilirostris )
ss. “ major” on the Palmeiras – Guine road, Chapada da Diamantina 26/10.
Black-billed Scythebill (Campylorhamphus falcularius )
In the humid forest at Boa Nova 28/10, Mata de Balbina 30/10 ; Serra Bonita RPPN 03/11.
PASSERIFORMES: Thamnophilidae
Spot-backed Antshrike ( Hypoedaleus guttatus )
At Boa Nova 28/10 and Serra Bonita RPPN 04/11.
Tufted Antshrike (Mackenziaena severa)
Briefly at Boa Nova 27/10 and at Serra Bonita RPPN 03/11.
Great Antshrike (Taraba major)
At Boa Nova 28/10.
Silvery-cheeked Antshrike (Sakesphorus cristatus) Endemic
On the Palmeiras – Guine road, Chapada da Diamantina 26/10
Caatinga Antshrike (Thamnophilus capistratus)
This species is a recent split from Barred Antshrike (Thamnophilus doliatus) . On the Palmeiras – Guine road, Chapada da Diamantina 26/10.
Chestnut-backed Antshrike (Thamnophilus palliatus)
A pair at Veracel PR 01/11.
Rufous-winged Antshrike (Thamnophilus torquatus)
In the cerrado west of Mucuge27/10.
Planalto Slaty Antshrike (Thamnophilus pelzelni) Endemic
On the Palmeiras – Guine road, Chapada da Diamantina 26/10
Sooretama Slaty Antshrike (Thamnophilus ambiguus) Endemic
At Sauipe 25/10 and at Veracel PR 30/10 & 01/11.
Variable Antshrike (Thamnophilus caerulescens)
In the forest at Boa Nova 28/10.
Spot-breasted Antvireo (Dysithamnus stictothorax ) Endemic Near-threatened
Seen daily in the forest at Boa Nova 28&29/10 and at Serra Bonita RPPN 03/11.
Cinereous Antshrike (Thamnomanes caesius)
In the Mata de Balbina above Bandeira 30/10.
White-flanked Antwren (Myrmotherula axillaris)
In the remnant forest at the Michelin Reserve near Itubera 05/11.
Band-tailed Antwren (Myrmotherula urosticta) Endemic Vulnerable
At Serra Bonita RPPN 02/11 and In the remnant forest at the Michelin Reserve near Itubera 05/11.
Stripe-backed Antbird (Myrmorchilus strigilatus)
A female in the forest at Boa Nova 28/10.
Caatinga Antwren (Herpsilochmus sellowi ) Endemic Near-threatened
Formerly considered conspecific with Pileated Antwren (Herpsilochmus pileatus) . On the Palmeiras – Guine road, Chapada da Diamantina 26/10
Bahia Antwren (Herpsilochmus pileatus)
At Sauipe 25/10 and Veracel PR 01/11.
Rufous-winged Antwren (Herpsilochmus rufimarginatus)
At Boa Nova 28/10 and Serra Bonita RPPN 03&04/11.
Narrow-billed Antwren (Formicivora iheringi) Endemic Near-threatened
Great views of male and female in the dry forest at Boa Nova 28/10.
White-fringed Antwren (Formicivora grisea)
At Veracel PR 01/11and the Michelin Reserve 05/11.
Black-bellied Antwren (Formicivora melonogaster) H.
Heard only On the Palmeiras – Guine road, Chapada da Diamantina 26/10.
Sincora Antwren (Formicivora grantsaui)
This recently described species found in the “gerais” vegetation just outside Mucuge 26/10
Ferruginous Antbird ( Drymophia ferruginea) Endemic
Seen regularly at Boa Nova and Serra Bonita RPPN.
Scaled Antbird ( Drymophia squamata) Endemic
At Sauipe 25/10 and the Michelin Reserve 05/11.
Streak-capped Antwren (Terenura maculata)
In the Mata de Balbina above Bandeira 30/10
Rio de Janeiro Antbird ( Cercomacra brasiliana) Endemic Near-threatened
In the Mata de Balbina above Bandeira 30/10.
White-shouldered Fire-eye (Pyriglena leucoptera)
Boa Nova 28/10, Mata de Balbina 30/10 and at Serra Bonita RPPN 03&04/11.
Scalloped Antbird (Myrmeciza ruficauda) Endemic Endangered
Great views of these elegant birds at the Fazemda Michelin 05/11
White-bibbed Antbird (Myrmeciza loricata) Endemic
In the forest at Boa Nova 29/10.
PASSERIFORMES: Formicariidae
Short-tailed ( Such’s) Antthrush (Chamaeza meruloides) Endemic
A pair seen in the late afternoon on the trail above the lodge at Serra Bonita RPPN 03/11.
PASSERIFORMES: Conopophagidae
Rufous Gnateater (Conopophaga lineata) H
Heard in the humid forest at Boa Nova 28/10 and in the forest at Bandeira 30/10.
PASSERIFORMES: Rhinocryptidae
Bahia Tapaculo (Scytalopus psychopompus) Endemic Critically Endangered
Great views of this ultra-rare species in the dark of the forest floor in the humid forest within the Michelin rubber plantation at Itubera 05/11.
Diamantina Tapaculo (Scytalopus diamantinensis)
This relatively recently described species seen in riverine vegetation on the Paraguacu River on the road to Ibicoara 27/10.
UnknownTapaculo (Scytalopus sp. nov)
A tapaculo of unknown affinities in the forest at Boa Nova 29/10
Stresmann’s Bristlefront (Merulaxis stressmanni) Endemic Critically Endangered
A female feeding quietly and calling intermittently seen in a dry streambed in a valley well below the main trail in the forest at Balbina above Bandeira 30/10. Possibly the rarest bird I have ever seen.
Collared Crescent-chest (Melanopareia torquata)
Great views of 2-3 of this wonderful species in the cerrado west of Mucuge 27/10.
PASSERIFORMES: Cotingidae
Sharpbill ( Oxyruncus cristatus)
A couple along the trail in Mata de Balbina30/10and Serra Bonita RPPN 03/11.
Swallow-tailed Cotinga ( Phibalura flavirostris ) Near-threatened
A pair carrying nesting materials seen on 02&03/11 were a first record for Serra Bonita RPPN
Black-headed Berryeater (Carpornis melanocephalus) Endemic Vulnerable
A single bird on the main trail at Babina Forest 30/10.
Cinammon-vented Piha ( Lipaugus lanioides) Endemic Near-threatened
In the humid forest at Boa Nova 29/10.
White-winged Cotinga (Xipholena atropurpurea) Endemic Endangered
Good views of a couple of males and one female in the private reserve at Veracela near Port Seguro on 01&02/11
Bare-throated Bellbird (Procnias nudicollis) H. Vulnerable
Heard only at Veracel, Serra Bonita RPPN and Itubera.
PASSERIFORMES: Pipridae
Red-headed Manakin (Pipra rubrocapilla)
Several birds in the private reserve at Veracela near Port Seguro on 01&02/11
White-crowned Manakin (Dixiphia pipra)
Several males lekking in the private reserve at Veracela near Port Seguro on 01&02/11.
Blue-backed Manakin (Chiroxiphia pareola)
In the forest at Saiupe on 25/10 and the humid forest at Boa Nova 29/10.
Blue Manakin (Chiroxiphia caudata)
In the humid forest at Boa Nova 29/10,Mata de Balbina 30/10; Serra Bonita RPPN 03/11.
Up to a dozen lekking birds seen on the trail at Bananeira on 13/06
Pin-tailed Manakin (Ilicura militaris) Endemic
Heard regularly and seen several times in the hunid forest at Boa Nova on28&29/10, on the main trail at Balbina 30/10 and Serra Bonita RPPN03/11.
White-bearded Manakin (Manacus manacus)
Several males lekking in the private reserve at Veracela near Port Seguro on 01&02/11.
Eastern Striped Manakin (Machaeropterus regulus)
One immature male and one female in the private reserve at Veracela on 01&02/11.
Wing-barred Piprites (Piprites chloris)
A pair in Mata de Balbina 30/10.
Thrush-like Schiffornis (Schiffornis turdinua turdina)
Heard regularly and one bird seen in the private reserve at Veracela on 01&02/11.
Greenish Schiffornis (Schiffornis virescens)
In the hunid forest at Boa Nova 28/10 and at Serra Bonita RPPN 02/11.
PASSERIFORMES: Tyrannidae
Sepia-capped Flycatcher (Leptopogon amaurochepalus)
In the humid forest at Boa Nova 28/10 Mata de Balbina 30/10 and Serra Bonita RPPN 03&04/11.
Drab-breasted Bamboo Tyrant (Hemitriccus diops)
In the humid forest at Boa Nova 28&29/10 and Serra Bonita RPPN 03&04/11.
Southern Beardless Tyrannulet (Camptostoma obsoletum)
In the “gerais” near Mucuge 26/10
Stripe-necked Tody-Tyrant (Hemitriccus striaticollis)
In the forest at Fazenda Michelin 05/11.
Hang-nest Tody-Tyrant (Hemitriccus nidipendulus) Endemic
In the humid forest at Boa Nova 28/10.
Pearly-vented Tody-Tyrant (Hemitriccus margaritaceiventer)
On the Palmeiras – Guine road, Chapada da Diamantina 26/10; the cerrado west of Mucuge 27/0 and the humid forest at Boa Nova 28/10.
Fork-tailed Tody-Tyrant (Hemitriccus furcatus) Endemic Vulnerable
In the humid forest at Boa Nova 28/10 and at Mata de Balbina on 30/10 where it appeared to be quite common
Yellow-lored Tody-Flycatcher (Todirostrum policeohalum) Endemic
At Serra Bonita RPPN 03/11.
Common Tody-Flycatcher (Todirostrum cinereum)
On the Palmeiras – Guine road, Chapada da Diamantina 26/10.
Planalto Tyrannulet (Phyllomyias fasciatus)
On the Palmeiras – Guine road, Chapada da Diamantina 26/10.
Grey Elaenia (Myiopagis caniceps)
One at the forest edge Mata de Balbina 30/10
Yellow-bellied Elaenia (Elaenia flavogaster)
At Serra Bonita RPPN 03/11 and Fazenda Michelin 05/11.
Plain-crested Elaenia (Elaenia cristata)
On the Morr do Pai Inacio 26/10 and in the “gerais” west of Mucuge 27/10
Highland Elaenia (Elaenia obscura)
One near the bridge over the Paraguacu River 27/10.
Tawny-crowned Pygmy-Tyrant (Euscarthmus meloryphus)
In the “gerais” west of Mucuge 27/10.
Rufous-sided Pygmy-Tyrant (Euscarthmus rufomarginatus) Near-threatened
In the “gerais” west of Mucuge 27/10.
Bahia Tyrannulet (Phylloscartes beckeri) Endemic Endangered
This uncommon species seen in the humid forest at Boa Nova 28/10.
Oustatlet’s Tyrannulet (Phylloscartes oustaleti) Endemic Near-threatened
On the ridge trail Mata de Balbina 30/10.
Olivaceous Flatbill (Rhynchocyclus olivaceus)
In the forest at Fazenda Michelin 05/11.
Yellow-olive Flycatcher (Flatbill) (Tolmomyias sulphurescens)
In the humid forest at Boa Nova 28/10 and at Serra Bonita RPPN 03/11.
Grey-crowned Flycatcher (Tolmomyias poliocephalus)
At Serra Bonita RPPN 03/11.
Yellow-breasted Flycatcher (Flatbill) (Tolmomyias flaviventris)
On the Palmeiras – Guine road, Chapada da Diamantina 26/10 and at Veracel PR. 31/10.
White-throated Spadebill (Platyrinchus mystaceus)
In the humid forest at Boa Nova 28/10.
Bran-coloured Flycatcher (Myiophobus fasciatus)
On the Palmeiras – Guine road, Chapada da Diamantina 26/10 and on the edge of the humid forest at Boa Nova 28/10.
Cliff Flycatcher ( Hirundea ferruginea)
At Serra Bonita RPPN 02&03/11.
Euler’s Fl;ycatcher ( Lathrotriccus euleri)
Heard at Boa Nova and Serra Bonita RPPN and seen in the Mata de Balbina 30/10
Tropical Pewee (Contopus cinereus)
Heard in several places but seen at Serra Bonnita 02&03/11.
White Monjita (Xolmis irupero)
Open country near Boa Nova 28&29/10 and near Bandeira 30/10.
Grey Monjita (Xolmis cinerea)
In the “gerais” west of Mucuge 27/10.
Velvety Black-Tyrant (Knipolegus nigerrimus) Endemic
3-4 birds on the Morro do Pai Inacio 26/10
Black-backed Water-Tyrant (Fluvicola albiventer)
At Sauipe 25/10.
Masked Water-Tyrant (Fluvicola nengeta)
In a roadside pond between Mucuge and Boa Nova on 27/10, the road between Macarani and Bandeira 30/10 and at Fazenda Michelin 05/11.
White-headed Marsh-Tyrant (Arundinicola leucocephala)
In a roadside pond between Mucuge and Boa Nova on 27/10.
Long-tailed Tyrant (Colonia colonus)
In the Mata de Balbina 30/10 and Serra Bonita RPPN 04/11.
Piratic Flycatcher (Legatus leucophaius)
At Serra Bonita RPPN 03/11.
Social Flycatcher (Myiozetetes similis)
Common.
Great Kiskadee (Pitangus sulphuratus)
At Sauipe 25/10 and Serra Bonita RPPN 03/11.
Three-striped Flycatcher (Conopias trivirgatus)
At Serra Bonita RPPN 03/11
Boat-billed Flycatcher (Megarhynchus pitangua)
Seen regularly in suitable habitat.
Variegated Flycatcher (Empidonomus varius)
At Veracel PR 02/11.
Tropical Kingbird (Tyrannus melancholicus)
Common.
Greyish Mourner (Rhytipterna simplex)
At Veracel PR 01/11.
Short-crested Flycatcher (Myiarchus ferox)
At Veracel PR 01/11
Brown-crested Flycatcher (Myiarchus tyrannulus)
On the Palmeiras – Guine road 26/10.
Grey-hooded Attila ( Attila rufus)
In the humid forest at Boa Nova 28&29/10.
Black-tailed Tityra (Tityra cayana)
At Veracel PR 01/11.
Chestnut-crowned Becard (Pachyramphus castaneus)
In the humid forest at Boa Nova 28/10 and at Serra Bonita RPPN 03&04/11.
Crested Becard (Pachyramphus validus)
At Veracel PR 01/11.
PASSERIFORMES: Hirundinidae
White-winged Swallow (Tachycineta albiventer).
A pond between Mucuge and Boa Nova on 27/10 and Cachoeira de Pancada Grande 04/11.
Purple Martin (Progne subis)
At the Fazenda Michelin 04&05/11
Grey-breasted Martin (Progne chalybea)
Seen regularly throughout the trip.
Brown-chested Martin (Progne chalybea)
In the “gerais” west of Mucuge 27/10.
Blue-and-white Swallow (Notiochelidon cyanoleuca)
At the Cachoeri de Pancada Grande 04/11.
Southern Rough-winged Swallow (Stelgidopteryx ruficollis)
Common.
PASSERIFORMES: Motacillidae
Yellowish Pipit ( Anthus lutescens)
At the Fazenda Michelin 05/11.
PASSERIFORMES: Troglodytidae
Black-capped Donacobius ( Donacobius atricapilla)
At Fazenda Michelin 05/11.
Moustached Wren (Thryothorus genibarbis)
At Veracel PR 31/10&01/11.
Long-billed Wren (Thryothorus longirostris) Endemic
ss. “bahiae” seen on the Palmeiras – Guine road 26/10
Southern House Wren (Troglodytes musculus)
Often regarded as a subspecis of House Wren (Troglodytes aedon) On the Palmeiras – Guine road 26/10 and at Fazenda Michelin 05/11.
PASSERIFORMES: Mimidae
Tropical Mockingbird (Mimus gilvus)
At the Fazenda Michelin 05/11.
Chalk-browed Mockingbird (Mimus saturninus)
In open country around Boa Nova 27&28/10.
PASSERIFORMES: Turdidae
Rufous-bellied Thrush (Turdus rufiventris)
Seen regularly throughout the trip.
Yellow-legged Thrush (Turdus flavipes)
This distinctive and attractive thrush seen daily at Serra Bonita RPPN 02&03/11.
Pale-breasted Thrush (Turdus leucomelas)
At Sauipe 25/10, on the Palmeiras – Guine road 26/10 and Serra Bonita RPPN 03/11.
Creamy-bellied Thrush (Turdus amaurochalinus )
At Serra Bonita RPPN 03/11.
White-necked Thrush (Turdus albicollis)
At Serra Bonita RPPN 02/11.
PASSERIFORMES: Polioptilidae
Tropical Gnatcatcher (Polioptila plumbea)
On the Palmeiras – Guine road 26/10.
PASSERIFORMES: Corvidae
White-naped Jay (Cyanocorax cyanopogon) Endemic
In the “gerais” west of Mucuge 27/10.
PASSERIFORMES: Passeridae
House Sparrow (Passer domesticus)
At Sauipe25/10.
PASSERIFORMES: Vireonidae
Red-eyed Vireo (Vireo olinaceous)
At Veracel PR 01&02/11.
Lemon-chested Greenlet (Hylophilus thoracicus)
A pair at Serra Bonita RPPN 03/11.
Rufous-browed Peppershrike (Cyclarhis gujanensis)
Heard regularly and finally seen at Serra Bonita RPPN 03/11.
PASSERIFORMES: Parulidae
Tropical Parula (Parula pitiayumi)
On the Palmeiras – Guine road 26/10.
Masked Yellowthroat ( Geothypis aequinoctialis)
In open country below mata de Balbina near Bandeira 30/10.
Golden-crowned Warbler (Basileuterus culicivorus)
In the humid forest at Boa Nova 28/10 and Serra Bonita 02/11.
Neotropical River Warbler (Phaeothlypis rivularis)
By a forest edge stream at Fazenda Michelin 05/11.
PASSERIFORMES: Coerebidae Bananaquit (Coereba flaveola)
Common – seen almost daily.
PASSERIFORMES: Thraupidae
Cinnamon Tanager (Schistochlamys ruficapillus )
In the “gerais” near Mucuge 26/10.
White-banded Tanager ( Neothraupis fasciatus) Near-threatened
In the “gerais” west of Mucuge 27/10.
Orange-headed Tanager (Thylopsis sordida)
At the Fazenda Michelin 05/11.
Rufous-headed Tanager ( Hemithraupis ruficapilla)
In the humid forest at Boa Nova 28/10 and Serra Bonita RPPN 03&04/11
Scarlet-throated Tanager (Compsothraupis loricata) Endemic
In the Mata de Balbina 30/10.
Flame-crested Tanager (Tachyphonus cristatus)
In the humid forest at Boa Nova 28&29/10
White-lined Tanager (Tachyphonus rufus)
On the Palmeiras – Guine road 26/10, and in the humid forest at Boa Nova 27&28/10.
Black-goggled Tanager ( Trichothraupis melanops )
In the humid forest at Boa Nova 28/10
Red-crowned Ant Tanager ( Habia rubica )
At Veracel RP 31/10.
Brazilian Tanager (Ramphocelus bresilius) Endemic
At the forest edge at Fazenda Michelin 05/11.
Sayaca Tanager (Thraupis sayaca)
In the garden of the accomodation in Lencois 26/10 and near Bandeira 30/10
Azure-shouldered Tanager ( Thraupis cyanoptera) Endemic
In the humid forest at Boa Nova 29/10 and Serra Bonita RPPN 03/11.
Palm Tanager (Thraupis palmarum)
At Veracel PR 31/10&01/11.
Green-headed Tanager ( Tangara seledon)
At Serra Bonita RPPN 02&03/11.
Red-necked Tanager ( Tangara cyanocephala )
ss. “cyanocephala”at Boa Nova 29/10 and Serra Bonita RPPN 03/11.
Gilt-edged Tanager ( Tangara cyanoventris ) Endemic
In the humid forest at Boa Nova 28&29/10.
Burnished-buff Tanager (Tangara cayana)
On the Palmeiras – Guine road 26/10 and in the humid forest at Boa Nova28&29/10.
Blue Dacnis (Dacnis cayana)
The humid forest at Boa Nova 28&29/10, Veracel PR01&02/11; Serra Bonita RPPN 02/11.
Red-legged Honeycreeper (Cyanerpes cyaneus)
At Veracel PR 01&02/11.
Green Honeycreeper (Chlorophanes spiza)
In the forest at Boa Nova 28/10 at Serra Bonita RPPN 31/10&0/11
PASSERIFORMES: Emberizidae
Pileated Finch (Grey P-F) (Coryphospingus pileatus)
On the Palmeiras – Guine road 26/10.
Blue-black Grassquit (Volatinia jacarina)
In open country around Boa Nova 28&29/10.
Yellow-bellied Seedeater (Sporophila nigricollis)
In open country near Mata de Balbina 30/10 and Fazenda Michelin 04/11.
Saffron Finch ( Sicalis flaveola)
Only at Fazenda Michelin 04&05/11.
Pale-throated Serra Finch ( Embernagara longicauda) Endemic Near-threatened
On the summit of Morro do Pai Inacio 26/10.
Red-cowled Cardinal (Paroaria dominicana) Endemic
On the Palmeiras – Guine road 26/10.
San Fransisco Sparrow ( Arremon franciscanus)
Amazing views of this rare skulker on the Palmeiras – Guine road 26/10.
Pectoral Sparrow (Arremon taciturnus) H.
Heard only in the forest at Boa Nova 28/10 and Fazenda Michelin 05/11.
Grassland Sparrow (Ammodramus humeralis)
In the “gerais” west of Mucuge 27/10
Wedge-tailed Grassfinch (Emberizoides herbicola)
In scrubby vegetation somewhere near Barra de Estiva 27/10.
Rufous-collared Sparrow (Zonotrichia capensis)
A few around Lencois and Mucuge 26&27/10.
PASSERIFORMES: Cardinalidae
Buff-throated Saltator (Saltator maximus)
At Serra Bonita RPPN 02/11.
Green-winged Saltator ( Saltator similis )
In the “gerais” west of Mucuge 27/10
Black-throated Saltator (Saltator atricollis)
At Veracel PR 02/11.
Ultramarine Grosbeak (Cyanocompsa brissoni)
On the Palmeiras – Guine road 26/10 and at Boa Nova 28/10.
Yellow-green Grosbeak (Caryothraustes canadensis brasiliensis)
ss. “brasiliensis” at Boa Nova 28/10, Mata de Balbina 30/10 and Veracel PR 01/11.
PASSERIFORMES: Icteridae
Chestnut-capped Blackbird (Agelaius ruficapillus)
In open country around Boa Nova 28/10.
White-browed Blackbird (Sturnella superciliaris)
Campo Troupial (Oriole) (Icterus jamacaii) Endemic
At Serra Bonita 03/11.
Yellow-rumped Cacique (Cacicus cela)
At Serra Bonita 02/11.
Red-rumped Cacique (Cacicus haemorrhous)
At Boa Nova 29/10, Mata de Balbina 30/10 and Veracel PR 31/10& 01/11.
Chopi Blackbird ( Gnorimopsar chopi)
Seen regularly in open areas throughout the trip.
Shiny Cowbird (Molothrus bonariensis)
Seen regularly throughout the trip.
PASSERIFORMES:Fringillidae
Purple-throated Euphonia (Euphonia chlorotica)
At Veracel PR 01&02/11.
Violaceus Euphonia (Euphonia violacea)
Common – seen regularly throughout the trip.
Chestnut-bellied Euphonia ( Euphonia pectoralis)
At Serra Bonita RPPN 03/11
Blue-naped Chlorophonia ( Chlorophonia cyanea)
On the edge of the forest at Boa Nova 29/10.
Additional Species Seen or Heard by Ciro Albano
Grey-fronted Dove, Maroon-faced Parakeet, Blue-winged Parrotlet, Striped Cuckoo, Hook-billed Hermit, Margaretta’s Hummingbird,Rufous-caped Motmot, Rufous Gnateater, Rufous-capped Antthrush, Great Xenops, Ochre-faced Tody Flycatcher, White-lored Tyrannulet, Mouse-coloured Tyrannulet, Eared Pygmy Tyrant, Cinereous Mourner, Buff-throated Purpletuft, Grey-eyed Greenlet, Long-billed Gnatwren, Black-throated Grosbeak, Flavescent Warbler.