LIMA - SANTA EULALIA - SATIPO ROAD - SAN RAMON - JUNIN - HUANUCO
This report is about the trip I made with my good friend Bill Porteous in search of some species that he needs for his list of birds of South America. I must say that Bill has been systematically traveling in search of the species he lacks in this part of the world. This is the third trip we make together and it is a great honor to find the birds he is looking for.
From some time now I have been developing private and custom itineraries for birders with specific interests such as searching for species that are lacking to increase their lists, which normally in a standard trip with an organized group tends to be difficult to do due to the different interests and skill levels that one finds in a group. In this type of trips we invested the necessary time in looking for the species that we need without the pressure of having to deliver for a whole group.
The route was planned according to the birds we were looking for and with a very flexible itinerary that allowed us to move according to how we were doing with respect to the species we were looking for. In general, this was an excellent trip of two weeks in one of the most interesting and little-explored areas of Peru: The central jungle, which compares a lot to the Manu road with fewer logistics complications and with the added bonus that includes many other species.
The birds were not very active. In the first part of our route, we were very successful in finding a group of 4 Rufous-breasted Warbling-Finch and 3 Puna Tinamou in the Santa Eulalia area. On Satipo road, we found Jet Manakin, but we did not have any response from Cerulean-capped Manakin or Spectacled Bristle-Tyrant, despite the recent e-bird report sights and my efforts to find the birds at a different elevation.
At the San Ramon area, at Puyu Sacha our main target was Black-winged Parrot. Here this species has been reported with some regularity and that is why this point was chosen. Unfortunately, the offer of fruits during the time of our visit in the forest was very large and these birds may have been anywhere. During the two days we spent, we called our attention that we did not hear Psittacidae vocalize.
Then we continued on to Villa Rica but we found that the habitat was not very good and we decided to leave early to Junin and meet with Cesar Deodato to look for the Black Rail, which was a success. The amount of Flamengos Andinos (approximately 400!) and Andean Geese (500!) that we observed around the lagoon was incredible!
Mr Cesar Donato is a local resident who at an early age and by his own initiative began to study the birds of the area. Now he is the best local guide in the area and is currently monitoring the Junin Grebe and other birds. To learn more about this, please stay tune to an interview I did and I will be releasing soon. If you are planning to visit this arra, I highly and strongly recommend to contact him to show you around. Cesar has implemented a bed and breakfast at his own place!
After Lake Junin (which is actually Chinchaycocha "the Lagoon of Andean Cats" from the Quechua words Chinchay: Gato Andino and Cocha: Laguna, Cesar told us that at this area, he remembers that the Andean cats were abundant when he was a boy) we made a stop in the forest of the Quinoa, road to Huanuco in search of the Thick-billed Siskin, another of our targets that never appeared, despite being one of the most reliable sites for the species according to e-bird and my prior experience.
We continued on to Huanuco, where we went to Hacienda Santa Cruz, out of the city near the town of Churubamba that has made possible to operate the Unchog Forest without having to camp with the inconveniences of the case, not to mention the harsh cold we experienced. From here is that we operated all our trips as day trips to all known points in the area.
Finally, we flew to Lima (LC-Peru) without major complications and went to Ventanilla in search of the Murivagans race from the Black Rail, but did not respond despite our efforts. From there we left for Chilca, to be near the Lomas de Asia for the next day to look for the Raimondi Yellow-Finch. In the Lomas of Asia, we found that the humidity and the mist were abundant and the place where the Yellow-finches could be found was not the best. There was plenty of water everywhere and the birds could be anywhere.
What caught my attention was finding a Black Rail vocalizing very close to the first reservoir! What I found interesting of this is that this species occurs in marshes with reeds. However there is a similar record at the Lomas de lachay in the north a few years ago of the same species.
ITINERARY
Day 1. Lima - Santa Eulalia Valley. We picked Bill up from the airport and drove directly to the Santa Eulalia valley, to spend the night there and be near our first point where we would look for the elusive Rufous-breasted Warbling-Finch and Puna Tinamou. Night at Cabañas de Santa Eulalia.
Day 2. Santa Eulalia Valley. We left at 6:00 am to our first point near the community of Huachupampa where we quickly found a couple of adults Rufous-breasted Warbling-Finch with two juveniles at the first point where we had breakfast. Then we went out to explore the Yanac forest, a remnant of Polylepis in search of Thick-billed Siskins without success. On the way we met the endemic Bronze-tailed Comet and enjoyed a face-to-face encounter with two Andean condors! In view that we had several hours, I decided to go in search of the Puna Tinamous above Milloc and we found three individuals that we saw very well with the help of the scope. We returned to spend the night in the town of Huachupampa to leave the next day to Satipo. Night at Huachupampa Community Lodge
Day 3. Huachupampa - Satipo. This was a day dedicated only to travel. We leave at 5:00 am and drive almost non-stop to Satipo, where we would be based at least two full days to look for some of our target birds. Night at Hotel San Luis.
Day 4. Satipo road (lower elevation). This day we started at about 650 meters above sea level, close to the community of Pampa Hermosa. The section between this community and Mariposas was very unproductive and besides this, it rained a lot which did not help much for our purposes. At certain moment we climbed up to 1400 meters, passing the community of Mariposas and we found much more activity, with a very good mixed flock where we found a male and two females of Ocellated Piculet, another of our target species. Night at Hotel San Luis
Day 5. Satipo road (higher elevation). This day we left very early (5:00 am) and we drove a bit further away from the community of Calabazas (2400 meters), where we had breakfast and started the descent by birdbathing. We found a lot of Bay Antpitta activity. We started to walk down and found a very good mixed flock near the bridge and we kept going down until it started to rain and we had to stop for two hours, which took time to look for our target birds however we found a Jet Manakin, which was a of the birds we were looking for. We also found an individual from White-crowned Manakin. When we reached 1610 meters, we started to return to Satipo. Night at Hotel San Luis
Day 6. Satipo road to San Ramon - Puyu Sacha. The plan was to climb up to 1610 meters to continue our search for two target birds: Cerulean-capped Manakin and Spectacled Bristle-Tyrant up to 1400 meters. However on the way to Mariposas a landslide forced us to return and start the trip to San Ramón a little earlier than expected.
We arrived in San Ramon around noon and we met Claudia and David who took us to Puyu Sacha, which is a concession that belongs to APRODES and adjoins the national sanctuary of Pampa Hermosa. Our main goal here was the Black-winged Parrot that has been reported with some regularity in the area. This area has enormous potential from the point of view for birdwatchers. We stayed 2 nights and found very good activity in the area. There was a lot of fruit available in the forest which should have influenced so that we could not find the Black-winged Parrots however we saw very interesting species like Undulated Antpitta, Ash-colored Tapaculo, Rufescent and Cloud-Forest Screech-Owl, Andean Potoo , Short-tailed Anthrush, Plain-tailed (Mantaro) Wren, Masked Fruiteater and many mixed flocks. We arrived with rain but we left immediately to see if we were lucky with the parrots, but the rain did not stop. Night in Puyu Sacha
Day 7. Puyu Sacha Full day. This was a day dedicated to searching for the Black-winged Parrots, but we did not succeed. Although it did not rain and the conditions were rather favorable. I do not even hear them vocalize! Night in Puyu Sacha.
Day 8. Puyu Sacha - Villa Rica. Early in the morning we left once more before returning to San Ramon, but we did not succeed. Then we excited the return to San Ramon where we met with our driver Julio and we went to Villa Rica. We were in Bosque Sho'llet but the activity was not as good, however we had an excellent view of a pair of Strong-billed Woodcreepers. We returned to the city and decided to leave the next day very early towards Lake Junin.
Night in Villa Rica
Day 9. Villa Rica - Ondores - Huanuco. This day our main objective was the Black Rail that occurs at this elevation (Tuerosi race). Prior to the trip we had contacted Cesar Donato who has been monitoring the Junin Grebe for years and is an expert on the birds of the area, to look for the rail. We met him and went to one of his points. In a few minutes we had excellent views of at least two individuals. In addition to the Black Rail we saw hundreds of Chilean Flamingos as well as Andean Geese and many other species. After a well-deserved picnic breakfast we gave the graces and to Cesar and we continued our trip to Huánuco, previous visit to the polylepis forest of La Quinua, where we were looking for Thick-billed Siskin without success. Finally we arrived at the Hacienda Santa Cruz de Huánuco hotel. Night in Hacienda Santa Cruz.
Day 10. Huanuco - Carpish and Patty Trail. Very early we headed to the famous Carpish tunnel, where our target was Golden-browed Chat-Tyrant, Peruvian Treehunter and Rufous-browed Hemispingus. It was very sad to discover how much this area has been deforested as well as the amount of garbage that was observed. The last time I was in the area was three years ago and the forest was in much better condition, the main reason seems to be the cultivation of hydrangeas that has really affected this part seriously. The weather was not on our side and it rained quite a lot so we decided to go to Patty trail where we did not succeed with the species we were looking for. In general, there was very little activity and we returned to the hotel empty handed. Night in Hacienda Santa Cruz.
Day 11. Huanuco - Monte Potrero - Carpish Tunnel. Thanks to a tip, we decided to explore a new conservation area. It is the communal forest called Monte Potrero, an area of 800 hectares of forest in excellent state of consvervacion with a troch of about 7 kms to a waterfall, flat. One that reaches approximately 3700 meters, and one that apparently descended. We were looking specifically: Peruvian Treehunter and Rufous-browed Hemispingus without luck but we saw interesting things.
It would be good to return with more time and evaluate the area for the species that occur in Unchog. There are some historical records north of this point that are interesting. The road goes directly to the parking area, from where you walk about 2 kms maximum through some farmland, following the irrigation channel until you reach the area from where all the trails start. This day we walked the trail that went to the waterfall and we crossed very good forest but with little activity. When we reached km 6 we found a good mixed flock and from there we decided to return. We had lunch and drove to Carpish again to look for Golden-browed Chat-Tyrant, Rufous-browed Hemispingus and Peruvian Treehunter but without success. We finally decided to go back and take a look again in the Tunel area of Carpish where we found very good activity, but none of our target species. We decided to return to the hotel to go to Bosque Unchog the next day. Night in Hacienda Santa Cruz.
Day 12. Huanuco. Unchog Forest. Early we left at 5 to get to the parking area. We did it at about 6:20 am and while Juliio was preparing breakfast we listened to Lined-fronted Canastero and Tapaculo Haze around us. Towards a lot of cold and after breakfast we started the trek to the most known areas in search of the Rufous-browed Hemispingu and Peruvian Treehunter. Despite our efforts, we could not see them ... they did not vocalize once! However we saw the other jewels in the crown: Golden-back Mountain-Tanager, Bay-vented Cotinga and Pardusco, as well as other very good birds in the flocks. At one point, we decided to return for a hot drink before going out to look for the Puna Tapaculo, another of our target groups. In total we traveled almost 12 kms from the parking area following the path that begins to gradually fall to a certain point that low at about 2900 meters. There is the possibility of following this path all the way down. At a certain point you get to a detour that goes up the road through the Paty trail or you continue towards a community on the edge of the road. At the time of writing this report, I do not have more details to offer.
After a short break, we returned to the trail to look for the Canastero that did not respond to the tape, instead of another bird responded across the Valley so we decided to cross the valley and go up to the forest and go in search of the Tapaculo. After locating and playing once again, a young individual appeared but disappeared before being able to see it properly. We decided to move to a higher ground and after playing the tape, a came to check out and did so beautifully, walking and then climbing to a small tree to check the intruder. We had great looks of this bird! After that we went back to the trail and walked back in order to drive back to the hotel. Night in Hacienda Santa Cruz.
Day 13. Huanuco - Carpish Tunel - Lima - Ventanilla. Very early we went to the Tunnel of Carpish where we arrived at 6 am to have breakfast and try once more to find three of our target birds but we had no luck. We saw interesting birds, but we did not look for them. We decided to return and drive to the airport to take our flight to Lima, which was given without major setbacks. Upon arrival our vehicle awaited us and we went directly to the Ventanilla wetlands to look for the Black Rail (murivagans race) but we did not have any response despite trying in different parts of the wetland. We decided to start our trip to Chicla, to be closer to our next destination: Las Lomas de Asia where we would look for the Raimondi Yellow-Finch.
The next day we arrived at 6:00 am when it was still dark and while we waited for the reserve to open we had breakfast and started to hear some birds. Band-tailed Sierra-Finch, Thick-billed Miner, Peruvian Meadowlark among others. Finally, we enter and walk towards the area where the fog collectors and water storage reservoirs are located, where Raimondi Yellow-Finch are usually seen regularly. We were waiting for hours without success, the amount of humidity was very high and there was water anywhere which made our goal more difficult. Finally we decided to return and focus on the secondary objective, Bill year's list. For that we went to Pueto Viejo and found a series of species from Seaside Cinclodes to Inca Terns and many more. Then, at a prudent hour, we headed to the Manhattan Hotel, where we left Bill before his trip to Panama.
Tinamidae (Tinamous)
Hooded Tinamou (Nothocercus nigrocapillus) Heard only at Puyu Sacha, San Ramon. Despite our efforts, the birds refuse to get close.
Brown Tinamou (Crypturellus obsoletus) The day we arrived to Puyu Sacha was raining but we went to the trail anyway. On our way back we enjoyed lengthy views of an individual feeding at the trail.
Andean Tinamou (Nothoprocta pentlandii) On our way back from Bosque Unchog, we saw at least three individuals at the main road. Great views!
Puna Tinamou (Tinamotis pentlandii) One of our best sights of the trip. At Santa Eulalia upper valley, we went to the Milloc area and played the tape. After a little bit we had a strong response of some individuals. It turned out, there were three birds singing back from way up the hill in a rocky area. We had great scope views. One of Bill’s target birds!
Anatidae (Ducks and Geese)
Andean Goose (Oressochen melanopterus) This must be the highest concentrations I’ve ever seen of these birds and trust me, I have seen a lot of these birds and many times, but never in these numbers around the Chinchaycocha lake.
Torrent Duck (Merganetta armata) At Satipo road, on our way back from Calabazas we had great views of a pair. In fact, the female was pretty active in what seems it was as reproductive display. We enjoyed wonderful looks of male and female.
Cinnamon Teal (Spatula cyanoptera) At the coast these birds were quite abundant.
White-cheeked Pintail (Anas bahamensis) These lovely ducks were seen also at the coastal part of the trip, Ventanilla and Villa.
Yellow-billed Pintail (Anas georgica) There were in great numbers at the highland Chinchaycocha lake, AKA Junin Lake.
Cracidae (Guans and Curassows)
Speckled Chachalaca (Ortalis guttata) We saw this species at the Satipo road as well as around the San Ramon area.
Andean Guan (Penelope montagnii) We saw 2 birds at the Carpish tunnel area, near Huanuco.
Wattled Guan (Aburria aburri) It was kind of a “regular” at the Puyu Sacha forest.
Podicipedidae (Grebes)
Silvery Grebe (Podiceps occipitalis) We saw at least 2 at one of the high Andean lakes near Lima.
Phoenicopteridae (Flamingos)
Chilean Flamingo (Phoenicopterus chilensis) This must be one of the highest concentrations of this species I’ve ever seen.
Sulidae (Boobies)
Peruvian Booby (Sula variegata) A common species at the Peruvian coastline.
Phalacrocoracidae (Cormorants)
Guanay Cormorant (Phalacrocorax bougainvilli) At the coastal part of our trip, near Lima we saw quite a few of these lovely birds.
Red-legged Cormorant (Phalacrocorax gaimardi) At the Puerto Viejo beach, we saw a pair of these lovely birds sitting on the rocks.
Neotropic Cormorant (Phalacrocorax brasilianus) This species was quite abundant.
Ardeidae (Herons, Egrets and Allies)
Great Egret (Ardea alba) One bird was seen at the San Ramon area and others around Lima.
Snowy Egret (Egretta thula) Quite common at Villa wetlands.
Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) At Ventanilla wetlands we saw some of these birds.
Black-crowned Night-Heron (Nycticorax nycticorax) We saw one individual at the high elevation lake of Chinchaycocha.
Fasciated Tiger-Heron (Tigrisoma fasciatum) At the Satipo road, we had great views of an individual at the rushing waters of the Pampa Hermosa river at the high part of the road.
Threskiornithidae (Ibises)
Puna Ibis (Plegadis ridgwayi) We saw this species at different parts of the trip with the highest concentrations at the Chinchaycocha lake.
Cathartidae (New World Vultures and Condor)
Black Vulture (Coragyps atratus) Very common except at the high andes.
Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura) We saw this species at the San Ramon area as well as in the coast around Lima.
Andean Condor (Vultur gryphus) What a great sight! At the Santa Eulalia road, after we head towards the higher part of the road, we saw a female flying at eye level to us. In fact, it seemed she was coming towards the car but at the last minute she just change her direction with a slight twist of her tail….what a magnificent bird!
Accipitridae (Hawks, Eagles and Kites)
Swallow-tailed Kite (Elanoides forficatus) We had some views of this delicate raptor at the Satipo road and San Ramon area.
Black-and-chestnut Eagle (Spizaetus isidori) During our hike at the Puyu Sacha forest, Claudia pointed out this bird soaring above the mountains, which turned out to be a magnificent adult. Always a treat to see it.
Plumbeous Kite (Ictinia plumbea) During our last morning at Puyu Sacha, we saw a pair of this species.
Roadside Hawk (Rupornis magnirostris) At the higher part of the Satipo road we saw an individual…this was close to 2600 meters above sea level and the highest I’ve ever seen this species.
Harris's Hawk (Parabuteo unicinctus) A common raptor along the Peruvian coast, which was seen the day we were birding around Lima.
White-rumped Hawk (Parabuteo leucorrhous) We had excellent views of an individual flying across the valley in Puyu Sacha forest.
Variable Hawk (Geranoaetus polyosoma) Along the highest parts of the Santa Eulalia road we had a great sight of which used to be called the Puna Hawk.
Black-chested Buzzard-Eagle (Geranoaetus melanoleucus) Our only sight was around the Autisha canyon at the lower part of the Santa Eulalia road, below San Pedro de Casta.
Gray-lined Hawk (Buteo nitidus) Another bird that was seen around the Puyu Sacha forest.
Rallidae (Rails, Coots and Allies)
Coastal Black Rail (Laterallus jamaicensis murivagans) It was a surprised to find this bird at 600 meters in the Lomas de Asia! I just couldn’t believe it when we heard it vocalizing around the first reservoir near the mist traps. As far as I know, this is the first record in the area.
Junin Black Rail (Laterallus jamaicensis tuerosi) One of our target birds which was seen very well at the Chinchaycocha lake thanks to the excellent job and knowledge of Cesar Donato, a local expert who has been monitoring the birds of the area, in particular the Junin Grebe for years.
Thank you Cesar!!!
Plumbeous Rail (Pardirallus sanguinolentus) Heard near our hotel in Huanuco.
Common Gallinule (Gallinula galeata) Quite common in the coastal marshes of Ventanilla.
Giant Coot (Fulica gigantea) We saw only one at the high andes lakes near Santa Eulalia.
Slate-colored Coot (Fulica ardesiaca) We had some sights at the Ventanilla wetlands.
Recurvirostridae (Stilts and Avocets)
Black-necked Stilt (Himantopus mexicanus) At the Ventanilla wetlands we had a small group of 12 birds.
Charadriidae (Plovers, Dotterels and Lapwings)
Andean Lapwing (Vanellus resplendens) Another abundant sight around the Chinchaycocha lake.
Killdeer (Charadrius vociferus) Recorded at the coast.
Thinocoridae (Seedsnipes)
Gray-breasted Seedsnipe (Thinocorus orbignyianus) During our drive to Satipo, we saw a pair by the road.
Scolopacidae (Sandpipers, Snipes, Phalaropes and Allies)
Whimbrel (Numenius phaeopus) Seen at the Coast.
Wilson's Phalarope (Phalaropus tricolor) At the lagoon of Ventanilla, there were around 70 birds. Probably early arrival from the Boreal latitudes.
Lesser Yellowlegs (Tringa flavipes) Few individuals were seen at the Ventanilla wetlands.
Laridae (Gulls, Terns and Skimmers)
Andean Gull (Chroicocephalus serranus) We saw some at the high Andean lakes near Santa Eulalia and later at Chinchaycocha lake.
Gray-hooded Gull (Chroicocephalus cirrocephalus) We saw a group of approximately 20 birds at the Ventanilla wetlands.
Franklin's Gull (Leucophaeus pipixcan) At the Ventanilla wetlands we had a large flock, probably early arrival from their breeding grounds.
Belcher's Gull (Larus belcheri) We saw this species at the coast.
Kelp Gull (Larus dominicanus) Ditto.
Inca Tern (Larosterna inca) No doubt, this must be the most beautiful tern of the world and easy to see too!
Columbidae (Pigeons, Doves and Allies)
Band-tailed Pigeon (Patagioenas fasciata) Very common at the cloud forest of Puyu Sacha and at the Carpish area.
Plumbeous Pigeon (Patagioenas plumbea) We heard this bird our last morning at Puyu Sacha.
Ruddy Ground-Dove (Columbina talpacoti) Around the San Ramon area.
Bare-faced Ground-Dove (Metriopelia ceciliae) Pretty common at the Santa Eulalia. road.
Black-winged Ground-Dove (Metriopelia melanoptera) Ditto.
White-tipped Dove (Leptotila verreauxi) We scored few birds at the Satipo road area.
Gray-fronted Dove (Leptotila rufaxilla) At Puyu Sacha.
White-throated Quail-Dove (Zentrygon frenata) Ditto!
West Peruvian Dove (Zenaida meloda)
Eared Dove (Zenaida auriculata)
Cuculidae (Anis and Cuckoos)
Smooth-billed Ani (Crotophaga ani) A common species at lower elevation at the east slope of the Andes.
Groove-billed Ani (Crotophaga sulcirostris) This bird replaces the previous species at the coast and western side of the Andes
Squirrel Cuckoo (Piaya cayana) A common bird around Puyu Sacha and other areas of the cloud forest we visited.
Strigidae (Typical Owls)
Rufescent Screech-Owl (Megascops ingens) Bill spotted a bird sleeping in the forest at lower level inside the forest. It was pretty amazing how well it blended with the vegetation.
Cloud-forest Screech-Owl (Megascops marshalli) This is one of the most sought birds in this route and quite easy to see at Puyu Sacha. No playback required! The bird roosts around the cabin and is pretty vocal and easy to spot. One of the best places I’ve come across to find this bird in Peru!
Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl (Glaucidium brasilianum) Our last morning in the Satipo road, we heard one after Mariposa.
Caprimulgidae (Nightjars and Nighthawks)
Band-winged Nightjar (Systellura longirostris) We saw one bird the small town of Huachupampa.
Tschudi's Nightjar (Systellura decussata) Around Chilca, near a fig orchard we had a responsive bird one night.
Ladder-tailed Nightjar (Hydropsalis climacocerca) We saw a few of these birds at the road in Satipo during our first outing in the morning.
Nyctibiidae (Potoos)
Andean Potoo (Nyctibius maculosus) At the Puyu Sacha forest, one night from the cabin, we spotted with the light a distant reflection in the forest. I did not think it was from an owl (because of the size of the eyes!) I thought it could be an Andean Potoo, but the bird went away. The next night, we had the eye’s reflection closer to the cabin and the bird was sallying forth, as a potoo does while foraging….And it was an Andean Potoo indeed! I got the chance to get it in the scope and despite the fog, enjoy great views of it. This bird has been heard at this location previously but this was the first sight of it. Again, there was no need to use playback with this bird.
Apodidae (Swifts)
White-collared Swift (Streptoprocne zonaris) Some birds were seen during the drive from Satipo to San Ramon
Andean Swift (Aeronautes andecolus) At the Santa Eulalia Valley we saw a pair of birds.
Trochilidae (Hummingbirds)
Green-fronted Lancebill (Doryfera ludovicae) We saw it at the Satipo road.
Lesser Violetear (Colibri cyanotus) Seen well at the Satipo road area.
Sparkling Violetear (Colibri coruscans) Pretty common and abundant at the Santa Eulalia area.
Amethyst-throated Sunangel (Heliangelus amethysticollis) We scored this bird at Monte Potrero, Huanuco.
Speckled Hummingbird (Adelomyia melanogenys) A common bird at Puyu Sacha.
Long-tailed Sylph (Aglaiocercus kingii) We had great views of a male at the trails in Puyu Sacha.
Bronze-tailed Comet (Polyonymus caroli) After we saw the Rufous-breasted Warbling-Finch, we walked a little bit and found a male foraging and sitting allowing stellar views! ENDEMIC.
Tyrian Metaltail (Metallura tyrianthina) We saw one at Monte Potrero.
Coppery Metaltail (Metallura theresiae) In Unchog we saw a very active male foraging at one of the grassy areas. ENDEMIC.
Black Metaltail (Metallura phoebe) We had at least 3 different birds at the polylepis patch of Yanac. ENDEMIC.
Shining Sunbeam (Aglaeactis cupripennis) One bird was seen during our outing in Monte Potrero.
Bronzy Inca (Coeligena coeligena) Seen at Puyu Sacha.
Collared Inca (Coeligena torquata) On our way to the cabin in Puyu Sacha we enjoy great views of a nice male visiting some flowers.
Violet-throated Starfrontlet (Coeligena violifer) This bird was very common at the Carpish tunnel area.
Mountain Velvetbreast (Lafresnaya lafresnayi) This bird was very common at Monte Potrero. We saw a number of males lekking along the trail.
Chestnut-breasted Coronet (Boissonneaua matthewsii) Another bird we saw at Puyu Sacha.
Booted Racket-tail (Ocreatus underwoodii) Also seen at Puyu Sacha.
Giant Hummingbird (Patagona gigas) Giant indeed! It was pretty common at the high part of the Santa Eulalia road.
Oasis Hummingbird (Rhodopis vesper) During our hike back from the top in Lomas de Asia, we had great views of a male.
Peruvian Sheartail (Thaumastura cora) One quick and brief view of a male, which is unmistakable on our first day in Santa Eulalia.
Fork-tailed Woodnymph (Thalurania furcata) At the Satipo road lower elevation.
Sapphire-spangled Emerald (Amazilia lacteal) Ditto!
Green-and-White Hummingbird (Amazilia viridicauda) Ditto!
Amazilia Hummingbird (Amazilia amazilia) At Lomas de Asia.
Trogonidae (Trogons and Quetzals)
Golden-headed Quetzal (Pharomachrus auriceps) Seen first at Puyu Sacha and later at Carpish.
Crested Quetzal (Pharomachrus antisianus) We saw this one at Puyu Sacha.
Masked Trogon (Trogon personatus) We scored this bird on our last outing at the Carpish tunnel.
Momotidae (Motmots)
Rufous Motmot (Baryphthengus martii) We saw a pair during out first day at the lower Satipo road.
Andean Motmot (Momotus aequatorialis) And this bird was also seen at the Satipo road but at higher elevation
Alcedinidae (Kingfishers)
Amazon Kingfisher (Chloroceryle amazona) From the vehicle we spotted a male sitting by the river.
Galbulidae (Jacamars)
Bluish-fronted Jacamar (Galbula cyanescens) Another common bird at the satipo road.
Capitonidae (Barbets)
Lemon-throated Barbet (Eubucco richardsoni) We scored a nice male on our third day at the Satipo road.
Versicolored Barbet (Eubucco versicolor) This bird was very common around Puyu Sacha.
Ramphastidae (Toucans, Araçaris and Allies)
Southern Emerald-Toucanet (Aulacorhynchus albivitta) This bird was seen at the Satipo road.
Blue-banded Toucanet (Aulacorhynchus coeruleicinctis) Seen every day at the right elevation at Satipo road and at Puyu Sacha.
Gray-breasted Mountain-Toucan (Andigena hypoglauca) At the Carpish tunnel area.
Chestnut-eared Aracari (Pteroglossus castanotis) Coming downhill from Puyu Sacha on our way to San Ramon, we saw a small group around a farm…..Classic sight!
Picidae (Woodpeckers, Flickers and Piculets)
Ocellated Piculet (Picumnus dorbignyanus) Our first day we reach something around 1400 meters on the Satipo road and we found an interesting mixed flock on which we had three piculets, a male and 2 females.
Yellow-tufted Woodpecker (Melanerpes cruentatus) One of the most common and pretty woodpeckers of the neotropics.
Little Woodpecker (Dryobates passerinus) During our drive to Villa Rica, we heard first and saw briefly a male by the road.
Smoky-brown Woodpecker (Dryobates fumigatus) At Puyu Sacha, this bird was also a regular in mixed flocks.
Golden-olive Woodpecker (Colaptes rubiginosus) Seen at the higher part of the Satipo road and later at Puyu Sacha.
Crimson-mantled Woodpecker (Colaptes rivolii) We heard it first during our walk at Bosque Sho’llet, Villa Rica. After we played the tape, we saw the bird.
Andean Flicker (Colaptes rupicola) During our drive from the Santa Eulalia road to Satipo this bird was seen at the higher part.
Lineated Woodpecker (Dryocopus lineatus) At Satipo road area.
Crimson-bellied Woodpecker (Campephilus haematogaster) This lovely woodpecker was seen very well at the Puyu Sacha trail.
Falconidae (Falcons, Caracaras & Kestrel)
Mountain Caracara (Phalcoboenus megalopterus) Seen during the first two days at the Santa Eulalia valley and later at the Ondores area.
American Kestrel (Falco sparverius) Seen at different locations.
Aplomado Falcon (Falco femoralis) During our drive to meet Cesar in Ondores, we spotted a bird sitting by the side of the road on a small stump.
Psittacidae (Macaws, Parrots & Allies)
Blue-headed Parrot (Pionus menstruus) Common bird at the lower Satipo road.
Scaly-naped Parrot (Amazona mercenarius) We saw (and heard!) these birds flying high at the Satipo road area.
Mitred Parakeet (Psittacara mitratus) When we were getting close to San Ramon, we saw a small flock of these birds flying by.
Thamnophilidae (Typical Antbirds)
Barred Antshrike (Thamnophilus doliatus) At the lower Satipo road, we had a pair calling.
Chestnut-backed Antshrike (Thamnophilus palliatus) We saw this bird during our last hike at Puyu Sacha.
Variable Antshrike (Thamnophilus caerulescens) From our cabin in Puyu Sacha, this was the first bird we heard our first morning.
Creamy-bellied Antwren (Herpsilochmus motacilloides) I was surprised how common and easy to see this bird was around the Puyu sSach trails.
Yellow-breasted Antwren (Herpsilochmus axillaries) Another bird that we had regularly around Puyu Sacha.
White-browed Antbird (Myrmoborus leucophrys) At the Satipo road.
Grallariidae (Antpittas)
Undulated Antpitta (Grallaria squamigera) I don’t remember how many sights of these large antpitta we had during the time we were at Puyu Sacha but I think it was 4 different birds in one day at different parts of the trail, right on the open! Amazing!
Stripe-headed Antpitta (Grallaria andicolus) At the polylepis forest of the Yanac area.
Bay Antpitta (Grallaria capitalis) Heard at the high Satipo road and later around Puyu Sacha was also abundant.
Rufous Antpitta (Grallaria rufula) We heard a pair of birds at the Huanuco area.
Rhinocryptidae (Tapaculos)
Trilling Tapaculo (Scytalopus parvirostris) At Satipo road and Puyu Sacha.
White-crowned Tapaculo (Scytalopus atratus) At Puyu Sacha
Neblina Tapaculo (Scytalopus altirostris) One of our target birds which took a while to track it and later to find it but worth it!
Tschudi's Tapaculo (Scytalopus acutirostris) Very common bird at the Huanuco area.
Ash-colored Tapaculo (Myornis senilis) We had excellent views of a pair at Puyu Sacha.
Formicariidae (Antthrushes)
Rufous-breasted Antthrush (Formicarius rufipectus) Heard at the Puyu Sacha trail.
Short-tailed Antthrush (Chamaeza campanisona) There was one individual at the open during our first hike at Puyu Sacha...Just amazing!
Furnariidae (Miners, Woodcreepers, Spinetails, & Allies)
Grayish Miner (Geositta maritima) We saw at least two outside the Lomas de Asia.
Coastal Miner (Geositta peruviana) At Puerto Viejo by the beach, there was a pair foraging. ENDEMIC.
Thick-billed Miner (Geositta crassirostris) This bird was easily seen at the Lomas de Asia, which must be the best place to see this bird: Easy to see, tame and abundant! ENDEMIC
Dark-winged Miner (Geositta saxicolina) Around the spot where we scored our Black Rail in Ondores we saw this bird. ENDEMIC
Strong-billed Woodcreeper (Xiphocolaptes promeropirhynchus) At the Sho’llet forest we had a very responsive pair of birds.
Olive-backed Woodcreeper (Xiphorhynchus triangularis) We had this bird at the Satipo road and Puyu Sacha.
Montane Woodcreeper (Lepidocolaptes lacrymiger) Ditto!
Streaked Xenops (Xenops rutilans) Another bird we had on our last hike at Puyu Sacha.
Wren-like Rushbird (Phleocryptes melanops) This was a common bird at the Villa wetlands. We saw adults feeding young birds
Cream-winged Cinclodes (Cinclodes albiventris) At the high elevation on the Santa Eulalia road, we came across several birds.
White-winged Cinclodes (Cinclodes atacamensis) We also scored this bird at the Santa Eulalia road area.
Surf Cinclodes (Cinclodes taczanowskii) We had great views at the Puerto Viejo beach area. ENDEMIC.
Buff-throated Foliage-gleaner (Automolus ochrolaemus) One of the first birds we heard during our first outing at the lower part of the Satipo road.
Montane Foliage-gleaner (Anabacerthia striaticollis) A regular bird in mixed flocks which was seen several times at different locations at Satipo road.
Spotted Barbtail (Premnoplex brunnescens) We had this little furnarid at Puyu Sacha.
Pearled Treerunner (Margarornis squamiger) We enjoyed great looks fo these lovely furnarid at several locations during the trip.
Streaked Tit-Spinetail (Leptasthenura striata) We had this bird at the Monte Potrero area.
Lined-fronted Canastero (Asthenes urubambensis) At the higher part of the Santa Eulalia road.
Junin Canastero (Asthenes virgata) Ditto! ENDEMIC
Streak-backed Canastero (Asthenes wyatti) Ditto!
Canyon Canastero (Asthenes pudibunda) We had good views of this bird at the turn off to Huachupampa, Santa Eulalia.
Baron's Spinetail (Cranioleuca baroni) At Monte Potrero, while waiting for breakfast we were birding and came across a pair building a nest.
Cabanis's Spinetail (Synallaxis cabanisi) Heard at the lower Satipo road.
Azara's Spinetail (Synallaxis azarae) A typical bird of the cloud forest seen and heard pretty well.
Rufous Spinetail (Synallaxis unirufa) At the Carpish Tunnel, we had an individual that was actually following a weasel!
Tyrannidae (Flycatchers, Tyrants and allies)
Southern Beardless-Tyrannulet (Camptostoma obsoletum) One of the most common birds of coastal Lima.
White-tailed Tyrannulet (Mecocerculus poecilocercus) Seen well at the high part of the Puyu Sacha trail.
White-banded Tyrannulet (Mecocerculus stictopterus) We scored this bird at the Huanuco area.
White-throated Tyrannulet (Mecocerculus leucophrys) We had great views of this bird at Monte Potrero.
Pied-crested Tit-Tyrant (Anairetes reguloides) We had great views of three birds at the Huachupampa turn over area.
Tufted Tit-Tyrant (Anairetes parulus) We also saw this species at the Santa Eulalia road.
White-crested Elaenia (Elaenia albiceps) At the satipo road area, we found a pair of individuals.
Highland Elaenia (Elaenia obscura) A common bird at Satipo road and Puyu Sacha.
Sierran Elaenia (Elaenia pallatangae) Ditto.
Torrent Tyrannulet (Serpophaga cinerea) By the Pampa Hermosa river, we scored an individual.
Streak-necked Flycatcher (Mionectes striaticollis) We saw this species at Satipo road and later at the San Ramon area.
Sepia-capped Flycatcher (Leptopogon amaurocephalus) Another bird we saw around the Satipo road lower elevation.
Slaty-capped Flycatcher (Leptopogon superciliaris) Ditto!
Inca Flycatcher (Leptopogon taczanowskii) During our outing to the higher part of the Satipo road, on our birding down slope we also got this bird. ENDEMIC
Cinnamon-faced Tyrannulet (Phylloscartes parkeri) Our first day at the Satipo road, we reached 1400 meters above sea level and at this point we had great activity with a mixed flock moving in the area. This was one of the species we found in it!
Rough-legged Tyrannulet (Phyllomyias burmeisteri) Another bird we found at Puyu Sacha forest.
Ashy-headed Tyrannulet (Phyllomyias cinereiceps) Also a Puyu Sacha, a common bird on the main trail.
Peruvian Tyrannulet (Zimmerius viridiflavus) Ditto!
Many-colored Rush Tyrant (Tachuris rubrigastra) One of the most beautiful members of the Tyrant family, which was seen very well at the Villa wetlands south of Lima.
Rufous-headed Pygmy-Tyrant (Pseudotriccus ruficeps) At Carpish tunnel we came across a very responsive (and aggressive!) bird that came in response to the vocalization of a Golden-browed Chat-Tyrant!
Scale-crested Pygmy-Tyrant (Lophotriccus pileatus) We had great views of adults and young birds and the different plumages of what it seemed to be a family group at the Satipo road.
Yellow-browed Tody-Flycatcher (Todirostrum chrysocrotaphum) It was a great surprised to find two birds above 1400 meters above sea level!!!
Gray-crowned Flycatcher (Tolmomyias poliocephalus) Very vocal at the Satipo road lower elevation section.
Cinnamon Flycatcher (Pyrrhomyias cinnamomeus) Common as usual at the right elevation on the Satipo road, later at Puyu Sacha and Huanuco area.
Ochraceous-breasted Flycatcher (Nephelomyias ochraceiventris) During our last outing at Carpish, we came across this bird of the clouds.
Unadorned Flycatcher (Myiophobus inornatus) At Puyu Sacha, this bird must reach its northern most extension of its range. According to the literature, this bird occurs in southern Peru to western Bolivia but it does not reach this far north. The bird I observed resembled the Flavescent Flycatcher, which is common within its range but the detail that caught my eye was that the bird I observed did not have a black bill as the Flavescent Flycatcher, instead it had a very distinctive pinkish mandible, which is characteristic of the Unadorned Flycatcher. The other detail was that this bird was not in a mix flock, which is more typical of Flavescent Flyacatcher.
Olive Flycatcher (Mitrephanes olivaceus) Another good bird we found at Puyu Sacha.
Smoke-colored Pewee (Contopus fumigatus) Found at the Satipo rod and Puyu Sacha.
Black Phoebe (Sayornis nigricans) A common bird found at the rivers we came across.
Rufous-tailed Tyrant (Knipolegus poecilurus) Along the Satipo road, we saw a male moving around the spot where we scored the Jet Manakin.
Black-billed Shrike-Tyrant (Agriornis montanus) The most common and widespread of the Shrike-Tyrants was seen at the Santa Eulalia road.
Streak-throated Bush-Tyrant (Myiotheretes striaticollis) Also seen at the Santa Eulalia road.
Brown-backed Chat-Tyrant (Ochthoeca fumicolor) We saw one bird at the Carpish tunnel area our last day in Huanuco.
d'Orbigny's Chat-Tyrant (Ochthoeca oenanthoides) We had great views of 3 birds at the remnant polylepis patch of Yanac.
White-browed Chat-Tyrant (Ochthoeca leucophrys) Around the Huachupampa area foraging in the dry scrub.
Long-tailed Tyrant (Colonia colonus) At Puyu Sacha, while doing our last outing we came across a bird that looked like a Jet Manakin. The mystery was solved when the bird flew and joined an adult bird.
Dusky-capped Flycatcher (Myiarchus tuberculifer) At the high part of Satipo road, below Calabazas, we saw this bird as part of a mixed flock.
Pale-edged Flycatcher (Myiarchus cephalotes) At least one bird at Puyu Sacha main trail.
Great Kiskadee (Pitangus sulphuratus) Seen at the lower part of Satipo road and San Ramon.
Boat-billed Flycatcher (Megarynchus pitangua) Ditto!
Social Flycatcher (Myiozetetes similis) A common bird of the lower elevation.
Gray-capped Flycatcher (Myiozetetes granadensis) Same!
Lemon-browed Flycatcher (Conopias cinchoneti) Common at Puyu Sacha.
Golden-crowned Flycatcher (Myiodynastes chrysocephalus) Common at the tight elevation at the Satipo road.
Streaked Flycatcher (Myiodynastes maculatus) Lower Satipo road.
Piratic Flycatcher (Legatus leucophaius) This bird was also seen at Satipo road and Puyu Sacha.
Tropical Kingbird (Tyrannus melancholicus)
Cotingidae (Cotingas)
Barred Fruiteater (Pipreola arcuata) Quite common around the Carpish Tunnel.
Masked Fruiteater (Pipreola pulchra) We had excellent views of a bird in a fruit tree at Puyu Sacha. ENDEMIC
Bay-vented Cotinga (Doliornis sclateri) At Bosque Unchog, we heard one. ENDEMIC
Red-crested Cotinga (Ampelion rubrocristatus) Birding back from Bosque Potrero we had a lengthy look of a male sitting on a branch by the road.
Chestnut-crested Cotinga (Ampelion rufaxilla) We had two birds by the cabins a Puyu Sacha. This was one of Bill’s nemesis birds for many years until we broke the spell at the Manu road few years ago.
Andean Cock-of-the-rock (Rupicola peruvianus) Always a treat to see this bird. We had a nice male while eating breakftas by the road in Satipo.
Pipridae (Manakins)
Jet Manakin (Chloropipo unicolor) This was one of Bill’s target birds of the trip and we got it at the Satipo road.
White-crowned Manakin (Dixiphia pipra) Also at the Satipo road, we found a nice male, which at this elevation shows a different pattern on the head. The white extends lower on the nape.
Tityridae (Tytyras and Becards)
Masked Tityra (Tityra semifasciata) Before we headed to San Ramon, we birded one more time at the lower part of the Satipo road and we saw this bird.
Barred Becard (Pachyramphus versicolor) Seen at Puyu Sacha and Carpish tunnel area.
White-winged Becard (Pachyramphus polychopterus) We saw this bird at the lower Satipo road.
Vireonidae (Vireos, Shrike-Vireos and Greenlets)
Rufous-browed Peppershrike (Cyclarhis gujanensis) Very active and vocal at the Satipo road area.
Corvidae (Jays)
Green Jay (Cyanocorax yncas) Seen every day at the Satipo road and Puyu Sacha.
Violaceous Jay (Cyanocorax violaceus) Ditto.
Hirundinidae (Swallows and Martins)
Blue-and-white Swallow (Pygochelidon cyanoleuca) We found this bird at different parts of the trip. From the coast, andes and part of the foothills at the east side of the Andes.
Brown-bellied Swallow (Orochelidon murina) We saw some individuals flying around the polylepis Quinua forest on our way to Huanuco.
Andean Swallow (Orochelidon andecola) Another species we saw at high elevation at the Santa Eulalia road.
White-banded Swallow (Atticora fasciata) One of the typical species of the lowlands of the Amazon seen by the river.
Southern Rough-winged Swallow (Stelgidopteryx ruficollis) This is also another species of swallow that prefers the lowlands of the Amazon, but it can be found at certain elevation, as we did.
Troglodytidae (Wrens)
House Wren (Troglodytes aedon) An everyday bird of the whole trip.
Mountain Wren (Troglodytes solstitialis) At Satipo road and later at Huanuco area.
Sedge Wren (Cistothorus platensis) We had one at one of the highest points of bosque Unchog.
Thrush-like Wren (Campylorhynchus turdinus) At the lower part of the Satipo road and later around Villa Rica.
Fasciated Wren (Campylorhynchus fasciatus) Around Hacienda Santa Cruz.
Plain-tailed Wren (Mantaro) (Pheugopedius euophrys) This species was easier to find than I remember. At the Satipo road as well as Puyu Sacha, this bird was easy to find.
Coraya Wren (Pheugopedius coraya) Pretty common at the lower Satipo road and around San Ramon area.
Peruvian Wren (Cinnycerthia peruana) At Bosque Sho’llet we had a nice and responsive group and later at Huanuco, we found others. ENDEMIC
Gray-breasted Wood-Wren (Henicorhina leucophrys) Pretty common at the right elevation at the Satipo road and Puyu Sacha.
Chestnut-breasted Wren (Cyphorhinus thoracicus) Heard at Satipo road.
Cinclidae (Dippers)
White-capped Dipper (Cinclus leucocephalus) We had a brief encounter with an individual at the remnant polylepis forest of Yanac, which was foraging at the stream.
Turdidae (Thrushes, Solitaires and Allies)
Andean Solitaire (Myadestes ralloides) Above Calabazas and later at Puyu Sacha.
Slaty-backed Nightingale-Thrush (Catharus fuscater) During our rainy hike at Puyu Sacha, I saw one bird actively foraging on the ground.
White-eared Solitaire (Entomodestes leucotis) We saw a pair at the Carpish tunnel.
Black-billed Thrush (Turdus ignobilis) During our drive from Satipo to San Ramon, there were quite a few sights from the car.
Great Thrush (Turdus fuscater) Quite common along the Satipo road and other parts of the humid forest.
Chiguanco Thrush (Turdus chiguanco) Also quite common, but more at the dryer part of the Andes.
Mimidae (Mockingbirds)
Long-tailed Mockingbird (Mimus longicaudatus) We saw some birds at the Lomas de Asia.
Motacillidae (Pipits)
Peruvian Pipit (Anthus peruviana) Recent evidence has split Yellowish Pipit into three species, and this is the one has a restricted range from the Central coast of Peru to Northern Chile.
Parulidae (Parulas, Warblers and Redstarts)
Tropical Parula (Setophaga pitiayumi) Great views at the Satipo road and later at Carpishm Huanuco.
Three-striped Warbler (Basileuterus tristriatus) A common bird at Satipo road and Puyu Sacha.
Citrine Warbler (Myiothlypis luteoviridis) At the Calabazs area and also at Monte Potrero.
Buff-rumped Warbler (Myiothlypis fulvicauda) At the Satipo road we saw three different individuals.
Golden-bellied Warbler (Myiothlypis chrysogaster) This species was seen at the Satipo road as well.
Russet-crowned Warbler (Myiothlypis coronata) Mostly seen at the Puyu Sacha area.
Slate-throated Redstart (Myioborus miniatus) We had several views of this species at different locations. Always in mixed flocks.
Spectacled Redstart (Myioborus melanocephalus) This species replaces the previous species at higher elevations. Also in mixed flocks.
Thraupidae (Tanagers, Flowerpiercers, Hemispingus and allies)
Magpie Tanager (Cissopis leverianus) At the Satipo road it was a common sight.
Rufous-crested Tanager (Creurgops verticalis) We saw this bird at the Huanuco area.
Black-eared Hemispingus (Sphenopsis melanotis) At Satipo road.
Superciliaried Hemispingus (Thlypopsis superciliaris) The birds of the population at Central Peru are gray instead of yellow.
Rufous-chested Tanager (Thlypopsis ornate) Seen at the Satipo road, Puyu Sacha and the Carpish tunnel.
Brown-flanked Tanager (Thlypopsis pectoralis) This endemic species was seen at Bosque Unchog. ENDEMIC
Pardusco (Nephelornis oneilli) Same here, there was a mixed flock at the lower part of Unchog where this bird was part of it. ENDEMIC
Silver-beaked Tanager (Ramphocelus carbo) A very common bird around Puyu Sacha.
Golden-backed Mountain-Tanager (Cnemathraupis aureodorsalis) This bird is also one that was at the same flock than the Pardusco. There were at least three birds in that flock. ENDEMIC
Grass-green Tanager (Chlorornis riefferii) Eye candy!
Lacrimose Mountain-Tanager (Anisognathus lacrymosus) A common bird at Monte Potrero and Carpish area.
Scarlet-bellied Mountain-Tanager (Anisognathus igniventris) Ditto!
Blue-winged Mountain-Tanager (Anisognathus somptuosus) At the Satipo road and later at Puyu Sacha where it was very common.
Chestnut-bellied Mountain-Tanager (Dubusia castaneoventris) During our outing to Monte Potrero we saw at least one bird.
Yellow-throated Tanager (Iridosornis analis) 7 beautiful individuals were seen the day we went to bird the higher part of the Satipo road.
Yellow-scarfed Tanager (Iridosornis reinhardti) Around the Huanuco part of the trip we saw this beautiful bird. ENDEMIC
Fawn-breasted Tanager (Pipraeidea melanonota) We saw one bird at the Satipo road.
Blue-gray Tanager (Thraupis episcopus) Common at the lower part of the Satipo road as well as the San Ramon area.
Palm Tanager (Thraupis palmarum) Ditto!
Blue-capped Tanager (Thraupis cyanocephala) Seen at the higher part of the Satipo road, above Calabazas. Later we saw it again at Puyu Sacha.
Golden-naped Tanager (Tangara ruficervix) This little gem was seen at Puyu Sacha, as part of a mixed flock.
Silvery Tanager (Tangara viridicollis) Pretty common at Puyu Sacha.
Blue-necked Tanager (Tangara cyanicollis) A common bird at the Satipo road.
Beryl-spangled Tanager (Tangara nigroviridis) Common at the Satipo road and similar elevation at Puyu Sacha.
Paradise Tanager (Tangara chilensis) This bird does not have anything to do with Chile, despite its name!!! One of the typical quintessential lowlands tanagers!
Saffron-crowned Tanager (Tangara xanthocephala) Found at the Sastipo road and Puyu Sacha.
Flame-faced Tanager (Tangara parzudakii) Same here….even at the same flocks!
Swallow Tanager (Tersina viridis) At Satipo road we had great views of male and female.
Blue Dacnis (Dacnis cayana) We had only a male at Satipo road.
Giant Conebill (Conirostrum binghami) At the polylepis remnant of Yanac and later at La Quinua polylepis forest where we stopped for lunch.
Blue-backed Conebill (Conirostrum sitticolor) Great views of some birds during our outing at Monte Potrero.
Capped Conebill (Conirostrum albifrons) We found this bird in a mixed flock at Carpish tunnel.
Cinereous Conebill (Conirostrum cinereum) We saw the subspecies Littorale at the Coast and western Andes around Santa Eulalia.
Moustached Flowerpiercer (Diglossa mystacalis) Seen at Carpish and Monte Potrero.
Black-throated Flowerpiercer (Diglossa brunneiventris) Seen at the higher part of the Satipo road and later at Monte Potrero.
Deep-blue Flowerpiercer (Diglossa glauca) This bird was found at the satipo road area and later at Puyu Sacha.
Masked Flowerpiercer (Diglossa cyanea) Common at the right elevation at the satipo road, Puyu Sacha and Huanuco area.
Peruvian Sierra-Finch (Phrygilus punensis) Seen at the high part of the Santa Eulalia road, Lima
Mourning Sierra-Finch (Phrygilus fruticeti) Seen at the high part of the Santa Eulalia road, Lima.
Band-tailed Sierra-Finch (Phrygilus alaudinus) Seen at the high part of the Santa Eulalia road, Lima
White-winged Diuca-Finch (Idiopsar speculifer) Seen at the high part of the Santa Eulalia road, Lima
Plumbeous Sierra-Finch (Geospizopsis unicolor) Seen at the high part of the Santa Eulalia road, Lima
Ash-breasted Sierra-Finch (Geospizopsis plebejus) Seen at the high part of the Santa Eulalia road, Lima
Great Inca-Finch (Incaspiza pulchra) We had excellent views of this bird before the Autisha canyon. ENDEMIC.
Rufous-breasted Warbling-Finch (Poospiza rubecula) This was one of the MUST SEE birds by Bill and we did….What can I say about this other that it was amazing to see no 1 but 4 birds in different plumages at the Huachupampa area…..Just amazing! ENDEMIC.
Bright-rumped Yellow-Finch (Sicalis uropygialis) We found quite a few groups foraging at the grassby the road a the higher part of the Santa Eulalia road.
Greenish Yellow-Finch (Sicalis olivascens) Two birds were seen around the Huachupampa area.
Blue-black Grassquit (Volatinia jacarina) We saw a pair during our outing at the Lomas de Asia.
Chestnut-bellied Seedeater (Sporophila castaneiventris) One bird was seen at the lower part of the Satipo road.
Chestnut-bellied Seed-Finch (Sporophila angolensis) A female was seen at the same spot than the previous species.
Black-and-white Seedeater (Sporophila luctuosa) Also a small flock of this species was foraging at the same spot.
Yellow-bellied Seedeater (Sporophila nigricollis) Ditto.
Band-tailed Seedeater (Catamenia analis) Few birds were seen at the same location where we saw the Greater Inca Finch.
Plain-colored Seedeater (Catamenia inornata) While we waited for Julio to prepare our breakfast, we saw a number of birds around the road to Monte Potrero. This was one of them.
Golden-billed Saltator (Saltator aurantiirostris) Nice views of 2 birds at the same area than the previous bird.
Passerellidae (new World Sparrows)
Yellow-throated Chlorospingus (Chlorospingus flavigularis) One bird as part of a mixed flock at the Satipo road.
Short-billed Chlorospingus( Chlorospingus parvirostris) At Monte Potrero in a mixed flock, we scored this bird.
Common Chlorospingus (Chlorospingus flavopectus) A group of 5 birds were seen at the Satipo road.
Yellow-browed Sparrow (Ammodramus aurifrons) Another bird that we saw at the Satipo road.
Gray-browed Brushfinch (Arremon assimilis) At least 3 birds were seen at the Carpish area.
Chestnut-capped Brushfinch (Arremon brunneinucha) A common bird at Puyu Sacha.
Rufous-collared Sparrow (Zonotrichia capensis) Speaking of common birds!!!
Tricolored Brushfinch (Atlapetes tricolor) A regular bird at the satipo road.
Rusty-bellied Brushfinch (Atlapetes nationi) This is also another common bird in the right habitat. We had several views at the Santa Eulalia road. ENDEMIC.
Cardinalidae (Cardinals, Grosbeak and Others)
Golden Grosbeak (Pheucticus chrysogaster) AKA Golden-bellied Grsoebeak
Black-backed Grosbeak (Pheucticus aureoventris) We had a pair first and later around Huanuco we saw a male.
Icteridae (Oropendolas, Caciques, Blackbirds, and allies)
Peruvian Meadowlark (Sturnella bellicose) At the Lomas de Asia.
Russet-backed Oropendola (Psarocolius angustifrons) Common at the lower section of the Satipo road and Puyu Sacha.
Dusky-green Oropendola (Psarocolius atrovirens) Ditto!
Crested Oropendola (Psarocolius decumanus) Nice views at Satipo road.
Yellow-rumped Cacique (Cacicus cela) Ditto!
Mountain Cacique (Cacicus chrysonotus) During our outing in Monte Potrero we had great views of the subspecies of northern distribution, which differs with the southern population with the different plumage pattern.
Epaulet Oriole (Icterus cayanensis) At the Satipo road area, we had great views of this nice bird.
Scrub Blackbird (Dives warczewiczi) A common bird around Lima.
Fringillidae (Chlorophonias, Euphoni and Allies)
Blue-naped Chlorophonia (Chlorophonia cyanea) A rather common bird at the Satipo road…eye candy!
Golden-bellied Euphonia (Euphonia chrysopasta) At Satipo road.
Bronze-green Euphonia (Euphonia mesochrysa) Ditto!
Orange-bellied Euphonia (Euphonia xanthogaster) Seen at Satipo road and Puyu Sacha.
Hooded Siskin (Spinus magellanicus) We saw big numbers of this species at the high section of the Santa Eulalia road.
Olivaceous Siskin (Spinus olivaceus) There were 6 birds at the Satipo road. This species generally occurs more in humid areas than the previous bird.
Passeridae (Old World Sparrows)
House Sparrow (Passer domesticus)
Mammals
Long-tailed Weasel (Mustela frenata) At Carpish tunnel I started making a squeaky sound and suddenly a Rufous Spinetail started to follow something. Few minutes later, a weasel came straight towards us but when back to the forest as soon as it realized we were bigger creatures.
Northern Vizcacha (Lagidium peruanum) At the high section of the Santa Eulalia road we saw some of these rodents sun bathing.
Andean Mountain Cat (Leopardus jacobita) This was an amazing sight. As we were coming back from the highest part of the Santa Eulalia road, we saw an adult cat across the road which took its time to walk allowing us to have some views before it went away.
Vicuña (Vicugna vicugna) On our way to the Chinchaycocha lake, we saw some of these semi wild South American camelids.