26/6/03 - 19/7/03 South-east Brazil

South-east Brazil 

 

26^th June to 19^th July 2003

 

David & John F. Cooper

 

 

Itinerary

 

Thu 26/6/03:   Arrived at Rio de Janeiro Airport courtesy of Air Portugal on time at 3.30pm where encountered a long queue at Immigration, SARS screening and finally made it to the Localiza Car Hire Desk collecting our small car at 5.30pm just as it was getting dark. Driving decidedly hairy at first in the vicinity of the Airport but soon on our way to Teresopolis arriving at 8pm where we had difficulty in finding any Hotels until finally noticing a sign to the Hotel Mon Repos close to the entrance of Serra dos Orgaos NP. They had a twin room for 80 Reals per night. Didn’t feel hungry but very tired so went straight to bed.

 

Fri 27/6/03:     Up an hour before dawn so drove to Garafeo for first light finding the narrow driveable track down into a reasonable area of forest. Birded from 6am to 8am before making our way to the entrance of Serra dos Orgaos NP where spent until 5pm along the San Pedro Trail. We then drove to the highest point of the road at a pass between Teresopolis and Garafao and spent the remaining hour of light at a roadside stop overlooking the forest. Found a MacDonalds Restaurant in Teresopolis before returning to the Hotel for another good night’s sleep.

 

Sat 28/6/03:    Up an hour before dawn with the objective of making an early start to a return drive to Petropolis before Serra dos Orgaos NP opened only to find our car had a flat rear tyre. JFC quickly changed the tyre that we quickly had repaired at a garage in Teresopolis where they refused to charge us for this service. We were still leaving Teresopolis by 6.30am finding the road to Petropolis passed through much better habitat than we had expected so we didn’t make it back to Serra dos Orgaos NP until 10am where again walked the San Pedro Trail until 3pm before 2 hours along the Mozart Catao Trail which was at a lower elevation and passed several impressive stands of bamboo. Returned to MacDonalds before again returning to the Hotel that now appeared to be full.

 

Sun 29/6/03:   Left Teresopolis at 5.30am driving to the Semiduro Road where we arrived at 7am. We birded the roadside marshes and dry forest fragments until 10am before driving to the forest patches c.8km east of Carmo arriving at 11am where we birded until 2pm before driving to the comfortable Serra dos Tucanos Lodge arriving at 5pm where we did a quick circuit of the Lodge Gardens before dark. Ate a home-cooked meal with Andy Foster and his father the owners of the Lodge.

 

Mon 30/6/03:  Spent all day at the Serra dos Tucanos Lodge walking the Circular Trail and then the Water Pipe Trail in the morning returning to the Lodge for lunch whilst we experienced the only rain of the trip. After lunch we walked the Entrance Track before again trying both the Circular and Water Pipe Trails.

 

Tues 1/7/03:    Walked round the Lodge gardens before a quick breakfast and then drove to the start of the Bamboo Trail where we spent the whole day walking to the small farm and back.

 

Weds 2/7/03:  Again walked round the Lodge gardens before a quick breakfast and then drove to the start of the Theodoro Trail where we walked down to the road and back returning to the car at 3.30pm. Drove back to the Lodge and watched the Hummingbird feeders until dark.

 

Thurs 3/7/03: Left Serra dos Tucanos at 6.50am and drove to Semiduro where we stopped for an hour before making the long drive to Caraca NP arriving at 5pm just as the Entrance Gate was being closed. Drove onto the Monastery where we booked into the cheapest basic room at R80 and ate bread and bananas we’d bought enroute.

 

Fri 4/7/03:       Walked to Tanque Grande then the Ponte Dobode (Green) Trail before again trying the Tanque Grande Trail before walking back to the monastery lookout where we spent the evening eating more bread and bananas.

 

Sat 5/7/03:      Walked the Cruzeira Trail then the Cascatona Trail before returning to the monastery and again walked the Tanque Grande Trail before returning to the monastery where we bought an Egg and Bacon Burger at the small café before again walking to the start of the Tanque Grande Trail.

 

Sun 6/7/03:     Started at the Monastery Viewpoint before our final walk to Tanque Grande. Packed the car and before leaving Caraca NP walked the Piscina and Semiduro Trails. We then drove to Cipo finding a Caravan Park where we rented a chalet for R80 before driving to the summit to try and get our bearings – the new road having somewhat confused us.

 

Mon 7/7/03:    Spent all day along the Cipo road concentrating around the first summit.

 

Tues 8/7/03:    Walked the road just above Cipo Village before leaving at 8am and driving to Serra da Canastra NP where we arrived at 3pm. Found a room in Sao Roque de Minas and then drove the entrance track in the foothills of the escarpment.

 

Weds 9/7/03:  Spent all day visiting the lower areas of Serra da Canastra NP trying the trail to the bottom of Casca D’Anta waterfall and then the campsite. Returned to Sao Roque de Minas in the evening.

 

Thur 10/7/03: JFC’s birthday spent up the top of the escarpment visiting the top of Casca D’Anta Waterfall and then Sites D & E in Forrester’s Guide. We then drove to C and then Rolinho F where we finally found a pair of Brazilian Mergansers – the ideal Birthday present.

 

Fri 11/7/03:     Spent the morning along the lower road and the afternoon back up on top of the escarpment.

 

Sat 12/7/03:    Left Sao Roque de Minas at 5.30am and drove to Ubatuba arriving at 3pm where we found a Hotel for R65.

 

Sun 13/7/03:   Spent all day at Fazenda Angelim.

 

Mon 14/7/03:  Spent the morning at Corcorvado mainly in the vicinity of the clearing before making a late afternoon visit to Capricorno.

 

Tues 15/7/03:  Returned to Fazenda Angelim from 7am until 11am and then drove to the Agulhas Negras road where we birded from 3pm until dark staying at the nearby Hotel Palmital where they reduced the price to R70 and an ex-pat Barry convinced the management to take pity on us and give us a free meal which was an amazing steak and chips.

 

Wed 16/7/03:  Spent until 2.30pm along the Agulhas Negras road before driving to Itatiaia NP where we watched the Chocolate shop Hummingbird feeders before finding a room at the Hotel Donati where they reduced the price to R125 including breakfast.

 

Thur 17/7/03: Walked the Cachoeira Iguniera Trail and then walked from Hotel Donati to Hotel Ype via Hotel Simon along the Maromba Trail.

 

Fri 18/7/03:     Walked the trail towards Hotel Simon and then drove to Hotel Simon and walked the Tres Picos Trail for 6 hours. We then drove to the waterfall before returning to the Hotel Simon Tennis Courts for a spotlighting session.

 

Sat 19/7/03:    Walked the Hotel Donati Swimming Pool Trail where we scored with an obliging Variegated Antpitta proving a grande finale to the trip. We then drove to the Itatiaia NP Entrance gate and watched the Chocolate Shop Hummingbird feeders before a brief visit to the Itatiaia Marsh before leaving at 11am for Rio de Janeiro Airport.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Systematic List

 

Greater Rhea – Rhea americana C

We saw a group of 7 whilst driving the track leading to the Casca D’Anta Waterfall on top of the escarpment (see Forrester (1993)) at Canastra NP on the 10^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as fairly common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations. TBW (2000) includes this species as Near-threatened stating ‘in recent years, the large-scale conversion of central South American grasslands for agriculture and cattle-ranching has considerably reduced and fragmented its available habitat, particularly in the pampas and cerrado strongholds’.

 

Brown Tinamou – Crypturellus obsoletus obsoletus C

A single individual was seen walking ahead of us along the Maromba Trail linking Hotel Donati and Hotel Simon not far from the edge of the Hotel Donati clearing early in the morning on the 17^th. HBW (1992) states that ‘in Brazil it has increased notably in the last century, perhaps due to decline of Solitary Tinamou T. solitarius.’

 

Tataupa Tinamou – Crypturellus tataupa tataupa C

We obtained close views of a pair as they crept away from us down a slope further into a patch of forest having initially flushed them from near the edge of a driveable track through a small patch of remnant forest just north of the road c.8km east of Carmo on the 29^th. HBW (1992) states that ‘may suffer from habitat destruction, but probably more adaptable than other members of genus’.

 

Lesser Nothura – Nothura minor (Endemic) C

We saw 1 buff and 2 rufescent individuals (HBW (1992) states ‘these may constitute distinct colour phases’) on the edge of the main track whilst driving on top of the escarpment at Canastra between the Administration buildings and the Casca D’Anta Waterfall (see Forrester (1993)) early in the morning of the 10^th. This species is treated by by Silveira (1998) as endemic to the cerrado region of southeast Brazil and is listed as rare in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations – the article contains a photograph of a buff individual. TBW (2000) treats it as Vulnerable stating that it ‘has been recently recorded from very few sites over a large range’ and details post-1980 records from just seven sites (including Serra da Canastra) listing the rapid and extensive conversion of cerrado grasslands as presumably the cause of a rapid population reduction.

 

Spotted Nothura – Nothura maculosa maculosa C

We saw 2 on the main track whilst driving on top of the escarpment at Canastra NP between the Administration buildings and the Casca D’Anta Waterfall (see Forrester (1993)) on the 10^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations. HBW (1992) states that this species is ‘one of the commonest Tinamous, presently in expansion, due to deforestation and agricultural developments’. 

 

Least Grebe – Tachybaptus dominicus speciosus C

We saw a single individual on the lake next to the road at the campsite 3km west of Jose de Barreiro (see Forrester (1993)) on the 9^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as fairly common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Neotropic Cormorant – Phalacrocorax brasilianus brasilianus C

We saw 10 on lakes whilst driving between Canastra NP and Ubatuba on the 12^th, 4 whilst driving alongside the river west of Passos on the 15^th and 4 near Rio de Janeiro Airport on the 19^th.

 

Anhinga – Anhinga anhinga anhinga C

We saw 1 whilst driving alongside the river just west of Passos on the 15^th

 

Magnificent Frigatebird – Fregata magnificens C

We saw up to 10 on a day on three dates whilst at the coast at Ubatuba and 8 near Rio de Janeiro Airport on the 19^th.

 

Great Egret – Egretta alba egretta C

We saw 2 near Semiduro on the 29^th and 1 there on the 3^rd, up to 10 were seen on a day on three dates whilst at the coast at Ubatuba and 6 were seen near Rio de Janeiro Airport on the 19^th.

 

Snowy Egret – Egretta thula brewsteri C

We saw a group of 25 stood on the beach at Ubatuba on the 15^th and 1 at Itatiaia Marsh on the 16^th and 19^th.

 

Cattle Egret – Bubulcus ibis ibis C

Seen on ten dates often being noted whilst travelling but including at the Semiduro area, Ubatuba and the Itatiaia Marsh. A daily maximum of 100 was estimated on the 29^th.

 

Whistling Heron – Syrigma sibilatrix sibilatrix C

We saw 7 along the road adjacent to the Rio Sao Francisco near Canastra NP on the 11^th. We also saw 1 at Ubatuba on the 13^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as uncommon in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Buff-necked Ibis – Theristicus caudatus hyperorius C

We saw a party of 4 in fields adjacent to the good forest near Jose de Barreiro (see Forrester (1993)) on the 11^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as fairly common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Brazilian Teal – Amazonetta brasiliensis C

We saw three pairs on a small pool near Semiduro on the 3^rd.

 

Brazilian Merganser – Mergus octosetaceus C

We finally found a pair after two days of searching between the Cachoeira do Rasga Canga and the Cachoeira do Rolinho at Canastra NP on the 10th. After watching them asleep on rocks, they flew towards us, and landed at a pool in the River at a range of c.30m where they behaved in unison whilst vocalising. Superb. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as fairly common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations and details six mature pairs and 22 individuals being found along the main rivers and streams of the region during a population census conducted in April-December 1996. However, TBW (2000) lists it as Critical and speculates that ‘the population is likely to be lower than the 250 birds estimated in 1992’.

 

King Vulture – Sarcoramphus papa C

A single individual was seen in flight whilst we were driving between Belo Horizonte and Canastra NP on the 8^th.

 

Black Vulture – Coragyps atratus brasilienus C

The only species to be seen daily throughout the trip with good numbers always recorded on days we had to travel between sites. A daily maximum of 300 was estimated on the 3^rd.

 

Turkey Vulture – Cathartes aura ruficollis C

Seen on ten dates being noted at Semiduro, Cipo, Canastra NP and near Rio de Janeiro with a daily maximum of 5 noted on three dates.

 

White-tailed Kite – Elanus leucurus leucurus C

A single individual was seen just north of Belo Horizonte on the 6^th.

 

Grey-headed Kite – Leptodon cayanensis monachus C

A single individual was seen flying along the Rio Sao Francisco in Canastra NP below the Casca D’Anta Waterfall on the 9^th. Silveira (1998) regards this species as hypothetical at Serra da Canastra having only been recorded by only one author, being Forrester (1993).

 

Black-chested Buzzard-Eagle – Geranoaetus melanoleucus melanoleucus C

A single individual was seen above Sao Roque de Minas near Canastra NP on the 9^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as fairly common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

White-tailed Hawk – Buteo albicaudatus albicaudatus C

We saw 2 between Teresopolois and Petropolis on the 28th, 1 near Semiduro on the 29th, an impressive gathering of 30 at a roadside fire east of Belo Horizonte on the 3^rd, up to 2 seen on a day on three dates at Canastra NP and 1 along the Agulhas Negras road on the 16^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Short-tailed Hawk – Buteo brachyurus brachyurus C

We saw 1 rare (Ferguson-Lees (2001)) dark morph individual c.8km east of Carmo on the 29^th, 2 pale morph individuals along the Campo de Fora Trail at Caraca NP on the 4^th and another pale morph individual whilst driving between Canastra NP and Ubatuba on the 12^th.

 

Roadside Hawk – Buteo magnirostris magniplumis C

Seen on twelve dates being seen between Teresopolis and Petropolis, Serra dos Tucanos, Canastra NP, Ubatuba and near Rio de Janeiro. A daily maximum of 5 were seen whilst travelling between Canastra NP and Ubatuba on the 12^th. We saw 2 attending an army ant swarm at Corcovado on the 14^th, being a behaviour described in Ferguson-Lees (2001).

 

Savanna Hawk – Butoogallus meridionalis C

We saw 8 near Semiduro on the 3^rd and singles on two dates at Canastra NP. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Black Hawk-Eagle – Spizaetus tyrannus tyrannus C

We saw 1 over the Hotel Simon in Itatiaia NP on the 17^th and 2 in the air together over the Tres Picos Trail in Itatiaia NP on the 18^th.

 

Crane Hawk – Geranospiza caerulescens flexipes C

A single individual was seen in flight whilst we were driving just west of Cipo on the 8^th.

 

Laughing Falcon – Herpetotheres cachinnans queribundus C

JFC saw 1 between Teresopolis and Petropolis on the 28^th and we saw another just outside Fazenda Angelim at Ubatuba on the 15^th.

 

Barred Forest-Falcon – Micrastur ruficollis ruficollis C

A single rufous morph individual was taped into view c.1km along the Agulhas Negras road on the 16^th.

 

Yellow-headed Caracara – Milvago chimachima chimachima C

Seen on twelve dates at sites including between Teresopolis and Petropolis, near Semiduro, Caraca NP, Cipo, Canastra NP and Ubatuba. A daily maximum of 8 was recorded at Canastra NP on the 11^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Southern (Crested) Caracara – Polyborus plancus plancus C

Seen on eighteen dates at sites including between Teresopolis and Petropolis, near Semiduro, Serra dos Tucanos, Caraca NP, Cipo, Canastra NP, Ubatuba and Itatiaia NP. A daily maximum of 25 were seen whilst travelling from Canastra NP to Ubatuba on the 12^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Aplomado Falcon – Falco femoralis femoralis C

Singles were seen near Sao Roque de Minas on the 9^th and near the bottom of the Casca D’Anta Waterfall at Canastra NP on the 11^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as fairly common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

American Kestrel – Falco sparverius cearae C

Seen on six dates at sites including near Semiduro, Cipo and Canastra NP. A daily maximum of 6 was seen on the 8^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Dusky-legged Guan – Penelope obscura bronzina C

We saw up to 20 in the vicinity of the Caraca NP monastery on four dates where they are tame having clearly been fed there for some time. We also saw up to 8 on three dates in Itatiaia NP where they could be seen around the Hotel Donati in the early mornings. HBW (1994) states that this species is not globally threatened.

 

Spot-winged Wood-Quail – Odontophorus capueira capueira C

After hearing at least two parties calling at dusk along the Vue de Noiva trail at Serra dos Orgaos NP on the 27^th we were pleased to see a party of 3 which allowed us to obtain good views near the start of the trail on the 28^th. HBW (1994) states that this species is not globally threatened.

 

Blackish Rail – Rallus nigricans nigricans C

A pair were seen at the small Duck-pond at the Caraca NP Monastery Car Park on the 4^th with 1 being seen there the following day and 1 was seen at the pool c.8km along the Agulhas Negras road on the 16^th. HBW (1996) states that this species is not globally threatened.

 

Grey-necked Wood-Rail – Aramides cajanea cajanea C

This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations. We saw a single individual on the lake next to the road at the campsite 3km west of Jose de Barreiro (see Forrester (1993)) on the 9^th and a pair there on the 11^th.

 

Slaty-breasted Wood-Rail – Aramides saracura C

DC saw 1 at the side of the road between the entrance and the dam at Serra dos Orgaos on the 27th and 3 were seen at the pool c.8km along the Agulhas Negras road during the evening of the 16^th. HBW (1996) suggests this ‘species should probably be classified as a Data Deficient species’.

 

Ash-throated Crake – Porzana albicollis albicollis C

We coaxed 2 into view with tape-playback at the marsh at Semiduro (see JvW (2001)) during the morning of the 29^th. HBW (1996) states that this species is not globally threatened.

 

Red-gartered Coot – Fulica armillata C

We saw 2 on a lake between Canastra NP and Ubatuba on the 12^th. HBW (1996) states that this species is not globally threatened.

 

Red-legged Seriema – Cariama cristata C

We saw a group of 3 on a grassy hillside just north of Semiduro and another just north of Alem Paraiba on the 3^rd, and up to four on a day on all four dates at Canastra NP. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations. HBW (1996) states that this species is not globally threatened.

 

Wattled Jacana – Jacana jacana jacana C

We saw 3 at a roadside pool just east of Carmo on the 29^th and 5 at a roadside pool just north of Semiduro on the 3^rd. HBW (1996) states that this species is not globally threatened.

 

Southern Lapwing – Vanellus chilensis lampronotus C

Seen on fourteen dates at sites including Rio de Janeirio airport, the Semiduro area, Canastra NP and Ubatuba. A daily maximum of 15 was seen on our arrival at Rio de Janeiro Airport on the 26^th. HBW (1996) states that this species is not globally threatened.

 

Kelp Gull – Larus dominicanus C

We saw 4 along the coast at Ubatuba on the 14^th and 1 on the beach there the following day.

 

Picazuro Pigeon – Columba picazuro picazuro C

Seen on eight dates at sites including Cipo, Canastra NP, Ubatuba and Itatiaia NP with a daily maximum of 20 seen on the 9^th at Canastra NP. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Pale-vented Pigeon – Columba cayennensis sylvestris C

Only identified on four dates but probably overlooked. We saw the species on two dates at Canastra NP where a daily maximum of 20 was recorded on the 11^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Plumbeous Pigeon – Columba plumbea C

Only identified on two dates but probably overlooked. We only identified the species on two dates at Itatiaia NP where singles were seen and others heard in the forest surrounding Hotel Donati on the 17^th and 18^th.

 

Eared Dove – Zenaida auriculata virgata C

Only seen at Canastra NP where up to 6 were seen on a day on three dates with a daily maximum of 6 being seen on the 8^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as fairly common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Ruddy Ground-Dove – Columbina talpacoti talpacoti C

Seen on twelve dates at sites including the Semiduro area, Canastra NP, Ubatuba and Itatiaia NP with a daily maximum of 25 being seen in the vicinity of Semiduro on the 29^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Scaled Dove – Columbina squammata squammata C

Only seen at Canastra NP where up to 25 were seen on a day on three dates with a daily maximum of 25 being seen on the 9^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

White-tipped Dove – Leptotila verreauxi decipiens C

Seen on eight dates at sites including Serra dos Tucanos, Caraca NP, Canastra NP and Ubatuba with a daily maximum of 6 seen along the Theodoro Trail at Serra dos Tucanos on the 2^nd. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Blue-winged Macaw – Propyrrhura maracana C

We saw a pair both in flight and perched just north of Semiduro on the 3^rd. TBW (2000) treats it as Vulnerable ‘because the population is now small and undergoing an observed and inferred rapid decline owing to extensive loss of habitats and trapping for the cage-bird trade’.

 

White-eyed Parakeet – Aratinga leucophthalmus leucophthalmus C

We saw pairs between Teresopolis and Petropolis on the 28^th and near Semiduro on the 29^th. HBW (1997) states that this species is not globally threatened.

 

Golden-capped Parakeet – Aratinga auricapilla aurifrons (Endemic) C

We saw 5 of these superb Parakeets perched in roadside trees in the foothills between Sao Roque de Minas and the entrance gate of Canastra NP on top of the escarpment (see Forrester (1993)) during the evening of the 8^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations. However TBW (2000) treat this species as Vulnerable as it has ‘declined over a long period of time and has been extirpated from large parts of its wide range’ meaning ‘the remaining population is now small, severely fragmented and continuing to decline significantly’.

 

Peach-fronted Parakeet – Aratinga aurea C

At Cipo we saw 4 on the 6^th and 10 there the next day and at Canastra NP up to 25 were seen daily on all four dates there. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations. HBW (1997) states that this species is not globally threatened.

 

Maroon-bellied Parakeet – Pyrrhura frontalis frontalis C

We saw 5 in the lower section of Canastra NP on the 9^th, 7 at Ubatuba on the 14^th and up to 10 daily on both dates in Itatiaia NP. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations. HBW (1997) states that this species is not globally threatened.

 

Blue-winged Parrotlet – Forpus crassirostris vividus C

A flock of 30 were seen in a palm grove in Cipo village on the 7^th. HBW (1997) states that this species is not globally threatened.

 

Plain Parakeet – Brotogeris tirica (Endemic) C

Up to 4 were seen daily on all three dates at Serra dos Tucanos with a pair seen in the grounds of the lodge and 3 were seen at Ubatuba on the 14^th. HBW (1997) states that this species is not globally threatened.

 

Yellow-chevroned Parakeet – Brotogeris chiriri chiriri C

We saw a pair in flight over the foothills between Sao Roque de Minas and the entrance gate of Canastra NP on top of the escarpment (see Forrester (1993)) during the evening of the 8^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations. HBW (1997) states that this species is not globally threatened.

 

Pileated (Red-capped) Parrot – Pionopsitta pileata C

We saw a flock of 5 feeding in a tree along the Tres Picos Trail at Itatiaia NP on the 18^th.

 

Scaly-headed Parrot – Pionus maximiliani melanoblepharus C

Seen on thirteen dates at sites including between Teresopolis and Petropolis, Serra dos Tucanos, Caraca NP, Ubatuba and Itatiaia NP. A daily maximum of 15 was seen on the 30^th. HBW (1997) states that this species is not globally threatened.

 

Red-browed Parrot – Amazona rhodocorytha (Endemic) C

A pair were seen extremely well with both the red crown and speculum clearly seen as we looked down on them at close range as they flew over the foothills between Sao Roque de Minas and the entrance gate of Canastra NP on top of the escarpment (see Forrester (1993)) during the evening of the 9^th perhaps proving the greatest surprise of the trip. Silveira (1998) doesn’t list this species for Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas. TBW (2000) treats the species as Endangered including a total population of just 845 birds in 1999. Although the habitat at Canastra NP doesn’t appear to suit this species TBW (2000) mentions ‘seasonally displaced individuals have been found’ and we suspect our record probably involves such individuals.    

 

Squirrel Cuckoo – Piaya cayana macroura C

We saw 1 at Serra dos Tucanos on the 30^th and 2 there on the 2^nd, 1 on the 6^th, 1 at Canastra NP on the 10^th and singles at Ubatuba on the 13^th and 15^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Smooth-billed Ani – Crotophaga ani C

Seen on ten dates at sites including Semiduro, Cipo, Canastra NP and Ubatuba. A daily maximum of 30 were seen at Semiduro on the 29^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Guira Cuckoo – Guira guira C

Seen on eight dates at sites including Semiduro, Cipo and Canastra NP. A daily maximum of 15 were seen at Semiduro on the 29^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Barn Owl – Tyto alba tuidara C

A single individual as flushed from a road cutting along the Semiduro road on the 29^th.

 

Tawny-browed Owl – Pulsatrix koeniswaldiana C

A single individual was tape-lured and then spotlighted in trees adjacent to the Hotel Simon Tennis Courts in Itatiaia NP on the 18^th.

 

Burrowing Owl – Athene cunicularia cunicularia C

We saw 2 whilst driving between Piumhi and Sao Roque de Minas on the 8^th and 1 on top of the Canastra NP escarpment on the 10^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Least Nighthawk – Chordeiles pusillus pusillus C

We saw 1 flying over savannah-like habitat between Cipo village and the Cipo summit during the evening of the 7^th and a gathering of 4 over roadside fields near Jose de Barreiro at Canastra at dawn on the 11^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as fairly common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations. HBW (1999) states that this species is not globally threatened.

 

Scissor-tailed Nightjar – Hydropsalis torquata torquata C

A single female was seen sat on the track leading through the foothills between Sao Roque de Minas and the entrance gate of Canastra NP on top of the escarpment (see Forrester (1993)) during the evening of the 9^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as fairly common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

White-collared Swift – Streptoprocne zonaris zonaris C

Seen on eight dates at sites including near Caraca NP, Cipo, Canastra including perched birds at the Casca D’Anta Waterfall, Ubatuba and near Rio de Janeiro. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Great Dusky Swift – Cypseloides senex C

We saw an estimated 200 at the Casca D’Anta Waterfall early in the morning on the 9^th with birds perching on the cliffs under the falls. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as uncommon in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations. HBW (1999) states that this species is not globally threatened.

 

Grey-rumped Swift – Chaetura cinereiventris cinereiventris C

Around 50 were identified at Fazenda Capricorno at Ubatuba on the 14^th.

 

Saw-billed Hermit – Ramphodon naevius (Endemic) C

Singles were seen at the Serra dos Tucanos feeders on the 30^th, 2^nd and 3^rd, at Fazenda Angelim on the 13^th and at the Fazenda Capricorno feeders on the 14^th. Superb. TBW (2000) treats this species as Near-threatened stating that current key threats are urbanisation, industrialisation, agricultural expansion, colonisation and associated road-building.

 

Rufous-breasted Hermit – Glaucis hirsuta hirsuta C       

A single individual was seen perched at the edge of the Corcovado Clearing at Ubatuba on the 14^th.

 

Scale-throated Hermit – Phaethornis eurynome eurynome C

We identified 1 and saw several other Hermits almost certainly this species along the Veu de Noiva trail at Serra dos Orgaos on the 27^th, 1 along the Bamboo Trail at Serra dos Tucanos on the 1^st and 2 along the Theodoro Trail the next day and up to 5 daily on all four dates in Itatiaia NP.

 

Planalto Hermit – Phaethornis pretrei C

Singles were seen in the patch of forest c.8km east of Carmo on the 29^th and at Canastra NP on the 9^th and 11^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Reddish Hermit – Phaethornis ruber ruber C

We saw 1 at Fazenda Angelim at Ubatuba on the 13^th and 2 at Corcovado at Ubatuba on the 14^th.

 

Swallow-tailed Hummigbird – Campylopterus macrourus macrourus C

We saw 1 at the Itatiaia NP Chocolate Shop feeders on both the 16^th and 19^th and 1 at the Itatiaia Marsh on the 19^th.

 

Black Jacobin – Florisuga fusca C

Up to 5 were seen daily on all four dates at Itatiaia NP including an immature at the Hotel Ype feeders. 

 

White-vented Violetear – Colibri serrirostris C

We saw 2 at Caraca NP on the 6^th, 1 on the 8^th, and up to 2 on two dates at Canastra NP. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Black-breasted Plovercrest – Stephanoxis lalandi lalandi C

We saw 2 males at a flowering bush as we walked from the main road to the start of the Bamboo Trail at Serra dos Tucanos on the 1^st and 2 along the Theodoro Trail at Serra dos Tucanos on the 2^nd and a single male c.2km along the Agulhas Negras road on the 16^th. Superb.

 

Frilled Coquette – Lophornis magnificus (Endemic) C

We saw 2 females at the Itatiaia NP Chocolate Shop feeders on the 19^th.

 

Festive Coquette – Lophornis chalybeus chalybeus C

We saw around 5 including several males at the Fazenda Capricorno feeders on the 14^th. Superb.

 

Glittering-bellied Emerald – Chlorostilbon aureoventris C

We saw 3 feeding quite high in flowering trees along a driveway between Teresopolis and Petropolis on the 28^th, 2 at Caraca NP on the 5^th and 1 at Canastra NP on the 9^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as fairly common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Fork-tailed Woodnymph – Thalurania furcata eriphile

JFC saw 1 at Garrafao near Serra de Orgaos NP on the 27^th.

 

Violet-capped Woodnymph – Thalurania glaucopis C

We saw up to 5 on two dates attending the Serra dos Tucanos Lodge feeders, 1 at Caraca NP on the 5^th, 8 at the Fazenda Caprocorno feeders on the 14^th and up to 12 daily on all four dates at Itatiaia NP.

 

White-throated Hummingbird – Leucochloris albicollis C

Seen on seven dates at sites including Serra dos Tucanos, Caraca NP and Itatiaia NP with a daily maximum of 4 recorded on three dates.

 

White-tailed Goldenthroat – Polytmus guainumbi thaumantias C

We saw 2 at Cipo on the 7^th and singles at Canastra NP on the 8^th and 10^th. Silveira (1998) regards this species as hypothetical at Serra da Canastra having only been recorded by only one author, being Forrester (1993).

 

Versicolored Emerald – Agyrtria versicolor versicolor C

Only seen at Itatiaia NP where we saw 4 at the Chocolate Shop feeders on the 16^th and 2 there on the n19th and 3 at the Hotel Ype feeders on the 17^th.

 

Glittering-throated Emerald – Polyerata fimbriata tephrocephala C

We tentatively identified 2 at the Hotel Ype feeders at Itatiaia NP on the 17^th.

 

Sombre Hummingbird – Campylopterus cirrochloris (Endemic) C

We saw up to 4 on a day on four dates at the Serra dos Tucanos Lodge feeders.

 

Brazilian Ruby – Clytolaema rubricauda (Endemic) C

We saw singles at the Serra dos Tucanos Lodge feeders on two dates and at Caraca NP on the 5^th and up to 10 daily on four dates at Itatiaia NP.

 

Hyacinth Visorbearer – Augastes scutatus (Endemic) C

We saw 6 along the Cascatona Trail at Caraca NP on the 5^th, 2 around the Cipo summit on the 6^th and 15 there the following day. TBW (2000) treats this species as Near-threatened stating that the principal threat is now increasing conversion of land for cattle ranching, with its restricted range ensuring that it is vulnerable to any form of disturbance.

 

Horned Sungem – Heliactin bilopha C

We saw 2 female-type plumaged birds just below the summit at Cipo on the 7^th.

 

Stripe-breasted Starthroat – Heliomaster squamosus C

We saw 2 hunting insects over a small tributary just outside the Canastra NP below the escarpment on the 9^th and 2 just inside the Canastra NP below the escarpment on the 11^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as uncommon in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

White-tailed Trogon – Trogon viridis melanopterus C

A group of 6 were seen at Fazenda Angelim on the 13^th.

 

Black-throated Trogon – Trogon rufus chrysochloros C

We saw 1 along the Mozart Cutao Trail in Serra dos Orgaos NP on the 28^th, 2 at Serra dos Tucanos on the 1^st and 1 at the bridge at the start of the Jeep Trail at Itatiaia NP on the 18^th.

 

Surucua Trogon – Trogon surrucura aurantius C

We saw 2 at Serra dos Tucanos on the 1^st, 1 at Caraca NP on the 5^th, 2 at Itatiaia NP on the 17^th and 3 there the following day.

 

Ringed Kingfisher – Ceryle torquata C

A single individual was seen perched over a river at Semiduro on the 3^rd, 3 were seen at Ubatuba on the 14^th and 1 was seen on the 15^th.

 

Amazon Kingfisher – Chloroceryle amazona amazona C

We saw 2 near the campsite c.3km west of Jose de Barreiro on the 9^th.

 

Rufous-capped Motmot – Baryphthengus ruficapillus C

We heard this species daily at Itatiaia NP with birds calling at dawn around the Hotel Donati. However, it took us a considerable effort to see 1, which we finally did in response to tape-playback, along the Tres Picos Trail on the 18^th. Superb. HBW (2001) states that this species is not globally threatened.

 

Three-toed Jacamar – Jacamaralcyon tridactyla (Endemic) C

We saw a total of 6 along the Semiduro road (see JvW 2001) on the 29^th. TBW (2000) treats this species as Endangered as it ‘has undergone a major decline, such that the remaining population is believed to be very small and fragmented’ with ‘habitat loss and degradation continuing to threaten populations’.

 

White-eared Puffbird – Nystalus chacuru chacuru C

We saw 3 just below the summit at Cipo on the 7^th, 2 near Canastra NP on the 8^th and 1 at the entrance gate of Canastra NP above Sao Roque de Minas on the 11^th. HBW (2002) states that this species is not globally threatened. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Crescent-chested Puffbird – Malacoptila striata striata (Endemic) C

We saw a superb individual on a couple of occasions along the Campo de Fora Trail at Caraca NP on the 4^th and 1 high in a leafless tree at Fazenda Capricorno on the 14^th. HBW (2002) states that this species is not globally threatened.

 

Black-necked Aracari – Pteroglossus aracari vergens C

A single individual was seen in roadside palm trees just east of Carmo on the 29^th.

 

Spot-billed Toucanet – Selenidera maculirostris maculirostris C

A single individual was seen perched in the canopy along the Tres Picos Trail at Itatiaia NP on the 18^th.

 

Saffron Toucanet – Baillonius bailloni C

We saw a party of 5 along the Veu de Noiva Trail at Serra dos Orgaos NP on the 28^th, a party of 6 along the Maromba Trail at Itatiaia NP on the 17^th and a total of 8 along the Tres Picos Trail and near Hotel Simon in Itatiaia NP on the 18^th. TBW (2000) lists this species as Near-threatened as there is an illegal cage-bird trade, hunting and significant habitat loss.

 

Red-breasted Toucan – Ramphastos dicolorus C

At Canastra NP we saw 3 alongside the Rio Sao Francisco below the escarpment on the 9^th and 6 there on the 11^th and we saw 2 at the Hotel Fazenda Palmital on the 15^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as uncommon in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Toco Toucan – Rampastos toco albogularis C

We saw 4 fly across the road between Cipo and Belo Horizonte on the 8^th, up to 3 on a day on two dates at Canastra NP and 2 whilst driving from Canastra NP to Ubatuba on the 12^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

White-barred Piculet – Picumnus cirratus cirratus C

We saw 3 at Semiduro on the 29^th, 1 at Serra dos Tucanos on the 30^th, 1 at Caraca NP on the 4^th and 2 at Itatiaia NP on the 17^th and 18^th.

 

Campo Flicker – Colaptes campestris campestris C

Seen on seven dates at sites including between Teresopolis and Petropolis, Cipo and Canastra NP with a daily maximum of 6 seen at Canastra on the 11^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Green-barred Woodpecker – Colaptes melanochloros melanochloros C

We saw 1 c.8km east of Carmo on the 29^th, 1 at the start of the Bamboo Trail at Serra dos Tucanos on the 1^st, 1 at Cipo on the 8^th and 1 just below Hotel Ype in Itatiaia NP on the 18^th.

 

Yellow-browed Woodpecker – Piculus aurulentus C

We saw singles at Serra dos Orgaos NP on the 28^th, and at Itatiaia NP on the 17^th and 18^th. TBW (2000) treats this species as Near-threatened as the isolated forests in the north of its range have virtually disappeared owing to the expansion of pastureland and cultivation, and remaining patches are under pressure from clearance and fires spreading out of cultivated areas.

 

Blond-crested Woodpecker – Celeus flavescens C

A superb male was seen near the monastery at Caraca NP on the 5^th.

 

Lineated Woodpecker – Dryocopus lineatus erythrops C

We saw a pair in the foothills between Sao Roque de Minas and the entrance gate on top of the escarpment at Canastra NP on the 8^th and 1 just outside Fazenda Angelim at Ubatuba on the 15^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as fairly common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Yellow-fronted Woodpecker – Melanerpes flavifrons C

Up to 2 daily were seen on three dates at the Ubatuba sites and 4 were seen at Hotel Simon in Mr. Simon’s garden in Itatiaia NP on the 17^th.

 

White Woodpecker – Melanerpes candidus C

We saw up to 5 individuals on three evenings in the foothills between Sao Roque de Minas and the entrance gate on top of the escarpment at Canastra NP where we would watch them go to roost in a hole in a tree. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

White-spotted Woodpecker – Veniliornis spilogaster C

We saw 2 along the Agulhas Negras road on the 16^th.

 

Yellow-eared Woodpecker – Veniliornis maculifrons (Endemic) C

We saw a pair along the Mozart Catao Trail at Serra dos Orgaos NP on the 28^th, 1 along the Semiduro road on the 29^th and 2 along the Bamboo Trail at Serra dos Tucanos on the 1^st.

 

Robust Woodpecker – Campephilus robustus C

We saw 1 along the Tanque Grande Trail at Caraca NP on the 6^th, a pair at Fazenda Angelim on the 15^th and 2 along the Maromba Trail at Itatiaia NP on the 17^th.

 

Spotted Bamboowren – Psilorhamphus guttatus C

A single individual was tape-lured into view at Fazenda Angelim at Ubatuba on the 13^th and a couple were heard on our visit there on the 15^th. TBW (2000) treats this species as Near-threatened listing current key threats as urbanisation, industrialisation, agricultural expansion, colonisation and associated road-building.

 

Slaty Bristlefront – Merulaxis ater (Endemic) C

We tape-lured 2 males into view at Fazenda Angelim at Ubatuba on the 13^th. Superb. TBW (2000) treats this species as Near-threatened listing current key threats as urbanisation, industrialisation, agricultural expansion, colonisation and associated road-building.

 

Mouse-coloured Tapaculo – Scytalopus speluncae

We heard a single individual along the Mozart Catao Trail at Serra dos Orgaos NP on the 28^th but failed to see it.

 

Brasilia Tapaculo – Scytalopus novacapitalis (Endemic)

JFC saw a single male that responded to tape playback under the power lines at Canastra NP on the 10^th. Unfortunately DC only obtained utv’s as it disappeared from view and was not heard to sing again. Another individual was heard nearby but remained unseen. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations. TBW (2000) treats this species as Near-threatened describing the annual burning of adjacent grasslands limiting the availability and extent of suitable habitat and wetland drainage and the sequestration of water for irrigation schemes further reducing habitat.

 

Spot-backed Antshrike – Hypoedaleus guttatus leucogaster C

We saw 3 at Corcovado at Ubatuba on the 14^th. Superb.

 

Giant Antshrike – Batara cinerea cinerea C

Single females were seen along the Veu de Noiva Trail at Serra dos Orgaos NP on the 27^th, along the Bamboo Trail at Serra dos Tucanos on the 1^st and along the Theodoro Trail at Serra dos Tucanos on the 2^nd.

 

Sooretama Slaty-Antshrike – Thamnophilus ambiguous C

We saw pairs in the vicinity of an Ant swarm along the Bamboo Trail at Serra dos Tucanos on the 1^st and at Caraca NP on the 5^th.

 

Variable Antshrike – Thamnophilus caerulescens C

Seen on seven dates at sites including Serra dos Tucanos, Caraca NP, Canastra NP and Itatiaia NP with a daily maximum of 6 was seen at Serra dos Tucanos on the 1^st. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as fairly common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Spot-breasted Antvireo – Dysithamnus stictothorax C

We saw 2 at Serra dos Tucanos on the 30^th, and up to 2 daily on three dates at Ubatuba. TBW (2000) treats this species as Near-threatened listing current key threats as urbanisation, industrialisation, agricultural expansion, colonisation and associated road-building.

 

Plain Antvireo – Dysithamnus mentalis mentalis C

Seen on ten dates at sites including Serra dos Orgaos NP, Serra dos Tucanos, Canastra NP, Ubatuba and Itatiaia NP with a daily maximum of 8 seen at Serra dos Tucanos on the 2^nd. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as fairly common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Rufous-backed Antvireo – Dysithamnus xanthopterus (Endemic) C

We saw 4 along the Veu de Noiva Trail at Serra dos Orgaos NP on the 27^th, 1 at Serra dos Tucanos on the 1^st and 2 there on the 2^nd and 2 along the Agulhas Negras road on the 16^th.

 

Star-throated Antwren – Myrmotherula gularis (Endemic) C

We saw 4 along the Veu de Noiva Trail at Serra dos Orgaos NP on the 27^th and 1 there on the 28^th, 4 at Serra dos Tucanos on both the 30^th and 2^nd, 4 at Fazenda Angelim on the 13^th and 6 there on the 15^th. Superb.

 

Salvadori’s Antwren – Myrmotherula minor (Endemic) C

A single male was seen forming part of a mixed-species flock at Fazenda Angelim at Ubatuba on the 13^th. TBW (2000) treats this species as Vulnerable stating that the fragmentation and continuing habitat loss are so extensive within its range that the inferred rapid population decline qualifies it as Vulnerable.

 

Unicolored Antwren – Myrmotherula unicolor (Endemic) C

We saw 2 at Corcovado at Ubatuba on the 14^th and 1 at Fazenda Angelim at Ubatuba on the 15^th. TBW (2000) treats this species as Vulnerable because its small population, confined to just a few isolated localities, is inferred to be undergoing a rapid decline owing to continued habitat clearance and fragmentation.

 

Black-capped Antwren – Herpsilochmus atricapillus C

We saw a pair along the Campo de Fora Trail at Caraca NP on the 4^th. Superb.

 

Serra Antwren – Formicivora serrana interposita (Endemic) C

A superb pair performed for us in the vicinity of an Ant-swarm at the start of the Tanque Grande Trail at Caraca NP on the 5^th. Superb.

 

Ferruginous Antbird – Drymophila ferruginea (Endemic) C

We saw singles along the Veu de Noiva Trail at Serra dos Orgaos NP on the 27^th and 28^th, up to 4 daily on two dates at Ubatuba and up to 2 daily on two dates at Itatiaia NP. Easily located once the call is learnt.

 

Bertoni’s Antbird – Drymophila rubricollis C

We saw 8 along the Tres Picos Trail at Itatiaia NP on the 18^th.

 

Rufous-tailed Antbird – Drymophila genei (Endemic) C

We saw 4 along the Agulhas Negras road on the 16^th and 1 along the Tres Picos Trail at Itatiaia NP on the 18^th. TBW (2000) treats this species as Near-threatened stating that it has been recorded at eight sites, most of which are isolated patches of habitat and there has been some clearance for pasture and cultivation especially in the north of its range.

 

Ochre-rumped Antbird – Drymophila ochropyga (Endemic) C

We saw 1 along the Campo de For a Trail at Caraca NP on the 4^th and 4 along the Cascatona Trail at Caraca NP on the 5^th. TBW (2000) treats this species as Near-threatened listing the current key threats as urbanisation, industrialisation, agricultural expansion, colonisation and associated road-building.

 

Dusky-tailed Antbird – Drymophila malura C

We tape-lured a pair into view along the Cascatona Trail at Caraca NP on the 5^th.

 

Scaled Antbird – Drymophila squamata (Endemic) C

Only seen at sites around Ubatuba with 4 seen at Fazenda Angelim on both the 13^th and 15^th and 2 at Corcovado on the 14^th. Superb.

 

Streak-capped Antwren – Terenura maculata C

We saw singles at Corcovado on the 14^th and at Fazenda Angelim on the 15^th and 2 along the Tres Picos Trail on the 18^th.

 

White-shouldered Fire-eye – Pyriglena leucoptera C

Seen on eight dates at sites including the Bamboo Trail at Serra dos Tucanos, Caraca NP, Fazenda Angelim, Corcovado and Itatiaia NP with a daily maximum of 6 seen at Fazenda Angelim on the 13^th. Often seen attending Ant-swarms.

 

White-bibbed Antbird – Myrmeciza loricata (Endemic) C

Single males were seen along the Campo de For a Trail at Caraca NP on the 4^th and along the Represa da Piscina Trail at the Hotel Donati on the 19^th. Superb.

 

Rufous-tailed (Brazilian) Antthrush – Chamaeza ruficauda (Endemic) C

We tape-lured 2 vocalising individuals into view along the first 2km of the Agulhas Negras road on the 16^th with the second individual then performing particularly well for us. Superb.

 

Cryptic (Such’s) Antthrush - Chamaeza meruloides (Endemic) C

We tape-lured a vocalising individual into view along the Cachoeira Igumieira Trail near the Hotel Donati in Itatiaia NP on the 17^th. Superb.

 

Antthrush sp. – Chamaeza sp.

DC obtained brief views of a silent bird along the Tres Picos Trail at Itatiaia NP on the 18^th.

 

Rufous-capped Antthrush – Formicarius colma ruficeps C

A superb individual was seen on the trail ahead of us near the start of the Water Pipe Trail at Serra dos Tucanos Lodge on the 30^th.

 

Variegated (Imperial) Antpitta – Grallaria varia imperator C

After the disappointment of obtaining utv’s in response to tape playback of a vocalising individual at Fazenda Angelim we were elated to obtain brilliant views of a superb individual in response to tape playback along the Represa da Piscina Trail at the Hotel Donati in Itatiaia NP on unbelievably our last morning of the 19^th. Superb.

 

Black-cheeked Gnateater – Conopophaga melanops melanops (Endemic) C

DC obtained brief views of a single individual in the forest patch 8km east of Carmo on the 29^th and we obtained excellent views of 2 along the Circuit Trail at the Serra dos Tucanos Lodge on the 30^th. Superb.

 

Rufous Gnateater – Conopophaga lineata vulgaris C

Seen on six dates at sites including Garrafao, Serra dos Orgaos NP, Serra dos Tucanos, Caraca NP and Itatiaia NP with a daily maximum of 3 seen along the Bamboo Trail at Serra dos Tucanos on the 1^st.

 

Campo Miner – Geobates poecilopterus C

A single individual was seen well on the track leading to Fazenda das Pedras in Canastra NP on the 10^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as rare in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations. TBW (2000) treats this species as Near-threatened as there has been extensive conversion of cerrado habitats to mechanised agriculture, cattle ranching and plantations of non-native tree species with two thirds of cerrado habitats moderately or extensively altered by 1993, with most destruction having occurred since 1950.

 

Rufous Hornero – Furnarius rufus albogularis C

Seen on eight dates at sites including Semiduro, Caraca NP, Cipo, Canastra NP and Ubatuba with a daily maximum of 15 seen at Semiduro on the 29^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Tail-banded Hornero – Furnarius figulus figulus (Endemic) C

We saw 2 at Semiduro on the 29^th.

 

Araucaria Tit-Spinetail – Leptasthenura setaria C

We saw a pair in the Araucaria trees at the small farm in a clearing to the left 2-3km along the Agulhas Negras road on the 15^th and another pair in the Araucaria trees just beyond the pool c.8km along the Agulhas Negras road on the 16^th. TBW (2000) treats this species as Near-threatened stating that unsurprisingly it is threatened by the destruction of Araucaria forest as a result of clearance for pastureland and cultivation.

 

Itatiaia Thistletail – Oreophylax moreirae (Endemic) C

We heard 1 at the pool c.8km along the Agulhas Negras road on the 15^th and saw 3 in the vicinity of the pool the following day.

 

Rufous-capped Spinetail – Synallaxis ruficapilla C

Seen on six dates at sites including Serra dos Orgaos NP, Serra dos Tucanos, Caraca NP and Itatiaia NP with a daily maximum of 2 seen on three dates.

 

Pale-breasted Spinetail – Synallaxis albescens albescens C

A single individual was seen at Cipo on the 7^th.

 

Yellow-chinned Spinetail – Certhiaxis cinnamomea russeola C

A single individual was seen at the Itatiaia Marsh on the 19^th.

 

Pallid Spinetail – Cranioleuca pallida (Endemic) C

We saw 2 along the Bamboo Trail at Serra dos Tucanos on the 1^st, 1 at Caraca NP on the 6^th, 2 along the Agulhas Negras road on the 16^th and 2 in Itatiaia NP on the 17^th.

 

Common (Rufous-fronted) Thornbird – Phacellodomus rufifrons rufifrons C

We saw 2 in the foothills between Sao Roque de Minas and the entrance gate of Canastra NP on top of the escarpment (see Forrester (1993)) during the evening of the 8^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Firewood-Gatherer – Anumbius annumbi C

We saw 2 at Cipo on the 6^th and 4 there the next day and 1 near Canastra NP on the 11^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

White-collared Foliage-gleaner – Anabazenops fuscus (Endemic) C

We saw 1 along the Bamboo Trail at Serra dos Tucanos on the 1^st, 1 at Fazenda Angelim on the 13^th, 1 in Itatiaia NP on the 17^th and 3 there the following day.

 

Buff-browed Foliage-gleaner – Syndactyla rufosuperciliata rufosuperciliata C

We saw 2 along the San Pedro Trail at Serra dos Orgaos NP on the 28^th, 1 along the Bamboo Trail at Serra dos Tucanos on the 1^st, 2 at Caraca NP on the 5^th and 2 at Itatiaia NP on the 18^th.

 

White-browed Foliage-gleaner – Anabacerthia amaurotis C

We saw 1 along the San Pedro Trail at Serra dos Orgaos NP on the 27^th and 4 there on the 28^th, 1 at Serra dos Tucanos on the 1^st and 2 there on the 2^nd. TBW (2000) treats this species as Near-threatened listing current key threats as urbanisation, industrialisation, agricultural expansion, colonisation and associated road-building.

 

Black-capped Foliage-gleaner – Philydor atricapillus C

We saw 2 at Fazenda Agelim on the 13^th.

 

Ochre-breasted Foliage-gleaner – Philydor lichtensteini C

We saw 3 along the Circuit Trail at Serra dos Tucanos on the 2^nd.

 

Buff-fronted Foliage-gleaner – Philydor rufus rufus C

We saw 1 at Serra dos Tucanos on the 2^nd and 5 there on the 2^nd, 1 at Caraca NP on the 5^th, 1 at Fazenda Angelim on the 13^th and 2 at Itatiaia NP on the 17^th.

 

White-eyed Foliage-gleaner – Automolus leucophthalmus leucophthalmus C

DC saw 1 at Caraca NP on the 5^th and we saw singles near Ubatuba on both the 14^th and 15^th.

 

Pale-browed Treehunter – Cichlocolptes leucophrus (Endemic) C

We saw 1 along the San Pedro Trail at Serra dos Orgaos NP on the 27^th and 2 there on the 28^th.

 

Sharp-billed Treehunter (Xenops) – Heliobletus contaminatus C

We saw 2 along the San Pedro Trail at Serra dos Orgaos NP on the 28^th, 6 at Serra dos Tucanos on the 1^st and 1 there the following day.

 

Plain Xenops – Xenops minutus minutus C

We saw 3 along the San Pedro Trail at Serra dos Orgaos NP on the 28^th, 1 at Serra dos Tucanos on the 30^th and 1 on the 15^th.

 

Streaked Xenops – Xenops rutilans rutilans C

We saw singles on five dates at sites including Serra dos Tucanos, Caraca NP, Canastra NP and Ubatuba. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as uncommon in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Rufous-breasted Leaftosser – Sclerurus scansor scansor C

A superb individual was seen along the Maromba Trail linking Hotel Donati and Hotel Simon not far from the edge of the Hotel Donati clearing early in the morning on the 18^th.

 

Tawny-throated Leaftosser – Sclerurus mexicanus bahiae C

A pair were seen along the Bamboo Trail at Serra dos Tucanos on the 1^st and 2 were seen along the Theodoro Trail at Serra dos Tucanos the following day. Superb.

 

Sharp-tailed Streamcreeper – Lochmias nematura nematura C

A male was seen near the dam at the car park at the start of the San Pedro Trail at Serra dos Orgaos NP on the 27^th, a pair were seen in a stream along the road from Teresopolis to Petropolis on the 28^th and singles were seen at Caraca NP on the 5^th and at Canastra NP on the 9^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Thrush-like (Plain-winged) Woodcreeper – Dendrocincla turdina C

We saw 4 attending an Ant-swarm at Corcorvado on the 14^th.

 

Olivaceous Woodcreeper – Sittasomus griseicapillus sylviellus C

Seen on ten dates at sites including Serra dos Orgaos NP, Serra dos Tucanos, Caraca NP, Canastra NP and Itatiaia NP with a daily maximum of 8 seen at Serra dos Tucanos on the 1^st. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

White-throated Woodcreeper – Xipocolaptes albicollis albicollis C

We saw 2 along the San Pedro Trail at Serra dos Orgaos NP on the 28^th, 2 along the Bamboo Trail at Serra dos Tucanos on the 1^st and 5 along the Theodoro Trail the following day, and 1 in Itatiaia NP on the 17^th.

 

Planalto Woodcreeper – Dendrocolaptes platyrostris C

We saw 2 in Itatiaia NP on both the 17^th and 18^th.

 

Scaled Woodcreeper – Lepidocolaptes squamatus squamatus C

Seen on seven dates at sites including Serra dos Orgaos NP, Canastra NP, Fazenda Angelim and Itatiaia NP with a daily maximum of 4 seen at Serra dos Orgaos NP on the 27^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as uncommon in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Lesser Woodcreeper – Lepidocolaptes fuscus fuscus C

We saw 1 at Serra dos Orgaos NP on the 27^th, 1 at Serra dos Tucanos on the 30^th and 2 there on the 2^nd.

 

Black-billed Scythebill – Campylorhamphus falcularius C

We saw 2 along the San Pedro Trail at Serra dos Orgaos NP on the 28^th and 1 along the Bamboo Trail at Serra dos Tucanos on the 1^st. Superb.

 

Planalto Tyrannulet – Phyllomyias fasciatus brevirostris C

We tentatively identified 1 near the bottom of the Casca D’Anta Waterfall at Canastra NP on the 11^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as uncommon in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Grey-capped Tyrannulet – Phyllomyias griseocapilla (Endemic) C

We saw 2 along the Circuit Trail at Serra dos Tucanos on the 30^th. TBW (2000) treats this species as Near-threatened as agricultural conversion and deforestation for mining and plantation production historically threaten its lowland forests.

 

Southern Beardless Tyrannulet – Camptostoma obsoletum obsoletum C

Seen on seven dates at sites including between Teresopolis and Petropolis, Serra dos Tucanos, Cipo and the Agulhas Road with a daily maximum of 2 seen on two dates.

 

Yellow-bellied Elaenia – Elaenia flavogaster flavogaster C

We saw 2 in the ravine under the power lines at Canastra NP on the 10^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Plain-crested Elaenia – Elaenia cristata cristata C

We saw an estimated 30 at Cipo on the 7^th and 1 at Canastra NP on the 11^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as fairly common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Highland Elaenia – Elaenia obscura sordida C

We saw 3 at Caraca NP on the 6^th.

 

Sooty Tyrannulet – Serpophaga nigricans C

We saw pairs along the rivers at Canastra NP on both the 9^th and 10^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Sharp-tailed Grass-Tyrant – Culicivora caudacuta C

We saw a total of 17 on top of the escarpment at Canastra NP on the 10^th. Superb. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as fairly common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations. TBW (2000) treats this species as Near-threatened as habitat conversion to soybeans, exportable crops and Eucalyptus plantations has severely impacted campo cerrado habitats.

 

Grey-backed Tachuri – Polystictus superciliaris (Endemic) C

We saw a total of 8 around the Cipo summit on the 7^th and 1 on top of the escarpment at Canastra NP on the 10^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as uncommon in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations. TBW (2000) treats this species as Near-threatened.

 

Grey-hooded Flycatcher – Mionectes rufiventris C

We saw 1 at Serra dos Tucanos on the 30^th, up to 2 daily on three dates at Caraca NP and 1 on the 15^th.

 

Sepia-capped Flycatcher – Leptopogon amaurocephalus amaurocephalus C

Seen on ten dates at sites including Serra dos Orgaos where the daily maximum of 6 were seen on the 28^th, Serra dos Tucanos, Caraca NP, Ubatuba and Itatiaia NP.

 

Mottle-cheeked Tyrannulet – Phylloscartes ventralis ventralis C

Identified on five dates at sites including the Bamboo Trail at Serra dos Tucanos, Caraca NP where the daily maximum of 4 were seen on the 5^th, Ubatuba and Itatiaia NP.

 

Serra do Mar Tyrannulet – Phylloscartes difficilis (Endemic) C

We tentatively identified 2 at Fazenda Angelim on the 13^th. TBW (2000) treats this species as Near-threatened as the isolated forest patches in the north of its range have virtually disappeared owing to the expansion of pasture and cultivation.

 

Yellow Tyrannulet – Capsiempis flaveola flaveola C

We saw 2 at Corcorvado on the 14^th and 1 at Itatiaia NP on the 18^th.

 

Eared Pygmy-Tyrant – Myiornis auricularis C

We saw 4 along the Theodoro Trail at Serra dos Tucanos on the 2^nd, 2 at Caraca NP on the 5^th, 2 at Itatiaia NP on the 17^th and 1 there the following day.

 

Drab-breasted Bamboo-Tyrant – Hemitriccus diops C

We saw up to 2 daily on two dates at Caraca NP, 3 along the lower part of the Tres Picos Trail at Itatiaia NP on the 18^th and JFC saw 1 along the Represa da Piscina Trail at the Hotel Donati in Itatiaia NP on the 19^th.

 

Brown-breasted Bamboo-Tyrant – Hemitriccus obsoletus obsoletus (Endemic) C

We saw 3 along the first couple of km’s of the Agulhas Negras road on the 16^th and 1 quite high along the Tres Picos Trail at Itatiaia NP on the 18^th. The audible whir of its wings was always noticeable.

 

Hangnest Tody-Tyrant – Hemitriccus nidipendulus paulistus (Endemic) C

We saw up to 2 daily on three dates at Caraca NP.

 

Yellow-lored Tody-Flycatcher – Todirostrum poliocephalum (Endemic) C

Seen on seven dates at sites including Semiduro, Serra dos Tucanos, Caraca NP and around Ubatuba where a daily maximum of 2 was recorded on two dates.

 

Ochre-faced Tody-Flycatcher – Todirostrum plumbeiceps C

A single individual was seen at Serra dos Tucanos on the 1^st.

 

Large-headed Flatbill – Ramphotrigon megacephala megacephala C

We saw 1 at Itatiaia NP on the 17^th and 4 there the following day.

 

Yellow-olive Flycatcher – Tolmomyias sulphurescens C

We saw a single individual at Serra dos Tucanos on the 2^nd.

 

White-throated Spadebill – Platyrinchus mystaceus mystaceus C

Seen on seven dates at sites including Serra dos Orgaos, Semiduro, Serra dos Tucanos where a daily maximum of 3 were seen on the 2nd, Caraca NP and Canastra NP. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Yellow-rumped Flycatcher – Myiobius mastacalis (Endemic) C

Up to 2 were seen daily on three dates whilst at Ubatuba.

 

Black-tailed Flycatcher – Myiobius atricaudus ridgwayi C

We saw 1 along the Bamboo Trail at Serra dos Tucanos on the 1^st, 2 at Caraca NP on the 5^th and JFC saw 1 at Itatiaia NP on the 17^th.

 

Bran-coloured Flycatcher – Myiophobus fasciatus flammiceps C

DC saw 1 at Caraca NP on the 5^th and we saw up to 2 on two dates at Ubatuba.

 

Tropical Pewee – Contopus cinereus cinereus C

We saw 1 in the garden at Serra dos Tucanos Lodge on the 30^th, 2 at Ubatuba on the 14^th and singles on two dates in Itatiaia NP.

 

Grey Monjita – Xolmis cinerea cinerea C

We saw up to 2 daily on three dates whilst at Canastra NP with 1 seemingly always perched on the aerials opposite Pousada Barcelos in Sao Roque de Minas. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

White-rumped Monjita – Xolmis velata C

We saw up to 6 daily around the Cipo Summit and up to 50 daily at Canastra NP where they proved very common on top of the escarpment. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Crested Black-Tyrant – Knipolegus lophotes C

Seen on eleven dates at sites including the road between Teresopolis and Petropolis, Cipo, Canastra NP where the daily maximum of 6 were seen on the 10^th, and the Agulhas Negras road. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Velvety Black-Tyrant – Knipolegus nigerrimus (Endemic) C

We saw up to 6 daily on three dates at Caraca NP, 2 at Canastra NP on the 9^th and 5 along the Agulhas Negras road on the 16^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as fairly common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Blue-billed Black-Tyrant – Knipolegus cyanirostris C

We saw 4 near the start of the Theodoro Trail at Serra dos Tucanos on the 2^nd and up to 3 daily on three dates at Itatiaia NP.

 

Masked Water-Tyrant – Fluvicola nengeta nengeta C

Seen on six dates at sites including Carmo, Caraca NP, Canastra NP where the daily maximum of 5 were seen on the 11^th, and Ubatuba. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Long-tailed Tyrant – Colonia colonus colonus C

Seen on six dates at sites including Caraca NP, Canastra NP, Ubatuba where the daily maximum of 5 were seen on the 14^th, and Itatiaia NP. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Streamer-tailed Tyrant – Gubernetes yetapa C

Seen on six dates at sites including Semiduro, near Santa Barbara, Canastra NP where the daily maximum of 4 were seen on the 9th, and Itatiaia Marsh. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Yellow-browed Tyrant – Satrapa icterophrys C

We saw a single individual just outside Fazenda Angelim on the 13^th.

 

Cliff Flycatcher – Hirundinea ferruginea bellicose C

Seen on eight dates in ones and twos at sites including Serra dos Tucanos, Canastra NP, Ubatuba and the Hotel Simon in Itatiaia NP. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as fairly common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Cattle Tyrant – Machetornis rixosus rixosus C

We saw 2in Cipo Village on the 8^th, 4 near Canastra NP on the 9^th, 1 on the 15^th and 1 on the drive to Rio de Janeiro on the 19^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Shear-tailed Grey-Tyrant – Muscipipra vetula C

After much searching we finally found a pair just above the pool c.8km along the Agulhas Negras road on the 16^th. Superb.

 

Grey-hooded Attila – Attila rufus rufus (Endemic) C

We saw singles at the Ubatuba sites on three dates and at Itatiaia NP on the 18^th.

 

Sirystes – Sirystes sibilator sibilator C

We saw a single individual below the Casca D’Anta Waterfall at Canastra NP on the 9^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as uncommon in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Short-crested Flycatcher – Myiarchus ferox australis C

We tentatively identified a single individual at Caraca NP on the 6^th.

 

Great Kiskadee – Pitangus sulphuratus C

Seen on fifteen dates at sites including Serra dos Tucanos, Caraca NP, Cipo, Canastra NP, Ubatuba where the daily maximum of 4 were seen on the 13^th and Itatiaia NP. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Boat-billed Flycatcher – Megarynchus pitangua C

Identified on five dates but probably widely overlooked. We saw 8 around the Lodge at Serra dos Tucanos on the 30^th, 2 at Caraca NP on the 5^th and up to 2 daily on three dates at the Ubatuba sites.

 

Social Flycatcher – Myiozetetes similis pallidiventris C

Seen on ten dates at sites including Serra dos Tucanos, Caraca NP, Canastra NP, Ubatuba where the daily maximum of 4 were seen on the 14^th and Itatiaia NP. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Tropical Kingbird – Tyrannus melancholicus melancholicus C

We saw 3 at Semiduro on the 29^th, up to 6 daily on three dates at Canastra NP and 2 at Itatiaia Marsh on the 19^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Chestnut-crowned Becard – Pachyramphus castaneus castaneus C

We saw 1 at Serra dos Orgaos on the 27^th, up to 3 daily on two dates at Serra dos Tucanos and singles on two dates at Itatiaia NP.

 

Black-capped Becard – Pachyramphus marginatus marginatus C

We saw a single male at the edge of the Corcorvado Clearing on the 14^th.

 

Crested Becard – Pachyramphus validus validus C

We saw 2 at the Lodge at Serra dos Tucanos on the 30^th.

 

Helmeted Manakin – Antilophia galeata C

We saw a single male whilst walking through the forest to the base of the Casca D’Anta Waterfall on the 9^th and 4 males along the same stretch on the 11^th. Superb. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Blue (Swallow-tailed) Manakin – Chiroxiphia caudata C

Seen on eleven dates at sites including Garrafao, Serra dos Orgaos, Serra dos Tucanos where the daily maximum of 6 were seen on the 30th, Caraca NP, Fazenda Angelim and Itatiaia NP.

 

Pin-tailed Manakin – Ilicura militaris (Endemic) C

DC saw a male along the San Pedro Trail at Serra dos Orgaos NP on the 27^th, we saw a female along the Theodoro Trail at Serra dos Tucanos on the 2^nd, 2 males along the Cascatona Trail at Caraca NP on the 5^th, 2 females whilst walking through the forest to the base of the Casca D’Anta Waterfall on both the 9^th and 11^th. Superb. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as uncommon in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

White-bearded Manakin – Manacus manacus gutturosus C

We saw 3 including a lekking male whilst walking through the forest to the base of the Casca D’Anta Waterfall on the 9^th, an up to 4 on two dates in the Ubatuba areas. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as uncommon in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Greenish Schiffornis – Schiffornis virescens C

We saw a single individual along the Ponte Dobode Trail at Caraca NP on the 4^th.

 

Swallow-tailed Cotinga – Phibalura flavirostris flavirostris C

Our most wanted, but not really expected, species of the trip. Whilst trying to locate a flyover male Red-ruffed Fruitcrow along the Tanque Grande Trail at Caraca NP on the 4^th we could hardly believe our eyes when we found a flock of 10 of these superb Cotingas in the canopy of the fruiting tree that the Fruitcrow had flown into. We then saw another 2 whilst walking along the road back to the Monastery that evening. The following day we saw 5 along the Cascatona Trail and 8 in the fruiting tree along the Tanque Grande Trail. Without doubt the highlight of the trip. Superb. TBW (2000) treats this species as Near-threatened stating it has apparently declined for reasons that are unclear suugesting extensive deforestation within its range have presumably had some impact.

 

Black-and-gold Cotinga – Tijuca atra (Endemic) C

We saw a singing male and heard others along the San Pedro Trail at Serra dos Orgaos NP on the 27^th and heard them again there the following day, we heard birds singing along the upper part of the Bamboo Trail at Serra dos Tucanos on the 1^st and heard birds singing along the Agulhas Negras road on the 15^th and saw 4 lekking birds there the following day. TBW (2000) treats this species as Near-threatened largely due to its highly restricted range.

 

Hooded Berryeater – Carpornis cucullatus (Endemic) C

We saw 2 males along the San Pedro Trail at Serra dos Orgaos NP on the 27^th and heard birds calling there the following day and saw 3 along the upper part of the Bamboo Trail at Serra dos Tucanos on the 1^st. TBW (2000) treats this species as Near-threatened listing the current threats as urbanisation, industrialisation, agricultural expansion, colonisation and associated road-building.

 

Cinnamon-vented Piha – Lipaugus lanioides (Endemic) C

We saw a single individual along the Tanque Grande Trail at Caraca NP on the 6^th. TBW (2000) treats this species as Vulnerable because it has a small and fragmented population and range that is undergoing a continuing rapid decline owing to the extensive loss of Atlantic forest.

 

Red-ruffed Fruitcrow – Pyroderus scutatus scutatus C

JFC saw a male fly across the Tanque Grande Trail at Caraca NP on the 4^th, we briefly saw a bird fly over us at Fazenda Angelim on the 13^th and were finally rewarded with prolonged views of a booming male in the early morning in pines near the small chapel in the grounds of the Hotel Donati in Itatiaia NP on the 18^th.

 

Bare-throated Bellbird – Procnias nudicollis C

We heard a calling male along the San Pedro Trail at Serra dos Orgaos on the 28^th, heard a male along the Bamboo Trail at Serra dos Tucanos on the 1^st, saw a calling male atop a tree along the Theodoro Trail on the 2^nd, saw 3 at Fazenda Angelim on the 13^th and heard them there on the 15^th. Impressive. TBW (2000) treats this species as Near-threatened stating that it has unquestionably declined owing to deforestation and heavy trapping pressure for the cage-bird trade, particularly in Brazil.

 

Black-capped Piprites (Manakin) – Piprites pileatus C

We tape-lured a superb male into view along the first kilometre of the Agulhas Negras road on the 16^th. TBW (2000) treats this species as Vulnerable because the extent of forest loss indicates that its apparently small population is declining and if it is an altitudinal migrant, the decline could be highly significant.

 

Sharpbill – Oxyruncus cristatus cristatus C

We saw singles along the San Pedro Trail at Serra dos Orgaos NP on the 27^th and in the clearing at Fazenda Angelim on the 13^th.

 

White-rumped Swallow – Tachycineta leucorrhoa C

Only seen at Cipo where we saw 2 on the 7^th and 4 on the 8^th.

 

Brown-chested Martin – Phaeoprogne tapera fusca C

We saw 1 at Semiduro on the 29^th and 2 there on the 3^rd.

 

Grey-breasted Martin – Progne chalybea C

We saw 10 at Rio de Janeiro Airport on the 26^th, 6 at Ubatuba on the 13^th and 2 there on the 15^th and 4 at Itatiaia NP on the 18^th.

 

Blue-and-white Swallow – Pygochelidon cyanoleuca cyanoleuca C

Seen on eighteen dates at sites including Teresopolis where the daily maximum of 50 was recorded on the 27th, Serra dos Tucanos, Cipo, Canastra NP, Ubatuba and Itatiaia NP. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Southern Rough-winged Swallow – Stelgidopteryx ruficollis ruficollis C

Seen on fourteen dates at sites including Semiduro, Serra dos Tucanos, Cipo, Canastra NP, Ubatuba where the daily maximum of 30 was recorded on the 14th and Itatiaia NP. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Curl-crested Jay – Cyanocorax cristatellus C

We saw a party of 7 at the top of the Casca D’anta Waterfall at Canastra NP on the 10^th and 2 along the road leading below the escarpment the following morning. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Plush-crested Jay – Cyanocorax chrysops chrysops C

A party of 9 crossed the track leading through the foothills between Sao Roque de Minas and the entrance gate of Canastra NP on top of the escarpment (see Forrester (1993)) during the evening of the 8^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as uncommon in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Black-capped Donacobius – Donacobius atricapillus atricapillus C

A pair were seen at a marshy area along the road leading below the escarpment at Canastra NP on the 9^th and a pair were seen at the lake next to the road at the campsite 3km west of Jose de Barreiro (see Forrester (1993)) on the 11^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Long-billed Wren – Thryothorus longirostris longirostris (Endemic) C

We saw two pairs in the clearing at Corcorvado on the 14^th. Superb.

 

House Wren – Troglodytes aedon musculus C

Seen on eleven dates at sites including Serra dos Orgaos NP, Serra dos Tucanos, Cipo where the daily maximum of 6 were seen on the 7th, Canastra NP, Ubatuba and Itatiaia NP. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Yellow-legged Thrush – Platycichla flavipes flavipes C

We saw 4 at Fazenda Angelim, Ubatuba on the 13^th and 2 at Itataia NP on both the 17^th and 18^th.

 

Eastern Slaty Thrush – Turdus subalaris C

A single individual was watched feeding in the canopy along the Tanque Grande Trail at Caraca NP on the 4^th.

 

Rufous-bellied Thrush – Turdus rufiventris rufiventris C

Seen on nineteen dates at sites including Serra dos Orgaos NP, Serra dos Tucanos, Caraca NP, Canastra NP, Ubatuba and Itatiaia NP where the daily maximum of 12 were seen on the 16^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Pale-breasted Thrush – Turdus leucomelas leucomelas C

Seen on ten dates with up to 4 seen on a day at sites including Serra dos Tucanos, Serra dos Tucanos, Caraca NP, Canastra NP, Ubatuba and Itatiaia NP. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Creamy-bellied Thrush – Turdus amaurochalinus C

We saw 6 at Semiduro on the 29^th, singles on two dates at Caraca NP, 1 at Fazenda Angelim, Ubatuba on the 13^th and 4 there on the 15^th.

 

Cocoa Thrush – Turdus fumigatus fumigatus C

We saw a single individual at Fazenda Angelim, Ubatuba on the 13^th.

 

White-necked Thrush – Turdus albicollis albicollis C

We saw 2 at Serra dos Orgaos NP on the 27^th and 1 there the following day, singles at Caraca NP on the 5^th and 6^th and 3 at Fazenda Angelim, Ubatuba on the 13^th and 2 there on the 15^th.

 

Chalk-browed Mockingbird – Mimus saturninus modulator C

Seen on twelve dates at sites including Rio de Janeiro Airport, Semiduro, Caraca NP, Cipo and Canastra NP where the daily maximum of 8 were seen on the 9^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Hellmayr’s Pipit – Anthus hellmayri brasilianus C

We tentatively identified 3 on top of the escarpment at Canastra NP on the 10^th. This species is not listed by Silveira (1998) from Serra da Canastra NP or adjacent areas based on the author’s observations but he does refer to others’ records and it is included by Forrester (1993).

 

Rufous-browed Peppershrike – Cyclarhis gujanensis C

Seen on nine dates at sites including between Teresopolis and Petropolis where the daily maximum of 3 were seen on the 28th, Serra dos Tucanos, Caraca NP, Agulhas Negras road and Itatiaia NP.

 

Rufous-crowned Greenlet – Hylophilus poicilotis C

We saw 10 along the Bamboo Trail at Serra dos Tucanos on the 1^st, 1 along the Theodoro Trail on the 2^nd, 1 at Caraca NP on the 5^th and 4 along the Agulhas Negras road on the 16^th.

 

Lemon-chested Greenlet – Hylophilus thoracicus thoracicus C

We saw 2 in streamside bushes at Corcovado on the 14^th.

 

Tropical Parula – Parula pitiayumi pitiayumi C

We saw 2 in the clearing at Corcovado on the 14^th.

 

Masked Yellowthroat – Geothlypis aequinoctialis velata C

We saw a male in the acacia scrub area between Cipo village and the summit on the 7^th and a pair at Corcovado on the 14^th.

 

Golden-crowned Warbler – Basileuterus culicivorus azarae C

Up to 6 were seen daily on eight dates at sites including Serra dos Orgaos NP, Serra dos Tucanos, Corcovado and Itatiaia NP.

 

White-bellied Warbler – Basileuterus hypoleucus C

Up to 6 were seen daily on three dates at Caraca NP, 2 were seen below the Casca D’Anta Waterfall at Canastra NP on the 9^th and 5 were seen there on the 11^th.

 

White-rimmed Warbler – Basileuterus leucoblepharus C

We saw 1 at Serra dos Orgaos NP on the 27^th and 4 there the following day, 2 along the Bamboo Trail at Serra dos Tucanos on the 1^st, 2 at Caraca NP on the 4^th and 1 there the following day and 2 along the Agulhas Negras road on the 16^th.

 

Neotropical River Warbler – Basileuterus rivularis rivularis C

Singles were seen at Fazenda Angelim on the 13^th and at Corcovado on the 14^th.

 

Bananaquit – Coereba flaveola C

Seen on eleven dates at sites including Serra dos Orgaos NP, Serra dos Tucanos, Caraca NP, Ubatuba and Itatiaia NP where a daily maximum of 6 were seen on the 17th.

 

Brown Tanager – Orchesticus abeillei (Endemic) C

A single individual accompanied a mixed species flock encountered along the Mozart Cutao Trail in Serra dos Orgaos NP on the 28^th. TBW (2000) treats this species as Near-threatened as isolated forest patches in the north of its range have virtually disappeared owing to the expansion of pasture and cultivation, and those remaining are under pressure from clearance and fires spreading from cultivated areas.

 

Cinnamon Tanager – Schistochlamys ruficapillus ruficapillus (Endemic) C

Seen on seven dates at sites including between Teresopolis and Petropolis, the top of the ridge above Serra dos Tucanos, Cipo and Canastra NP where the daily maximum of 6 was seen on the 10^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as fairly common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

White-rumped Tanager – Cypsnagra hirundinacea C

A pair were seen at the Cipo summit on the 7^th. Superb.

 

Magpie Tanager – Cissopis leveriana major C

We saw 3 near the monastery at Caraca NP on both the 4^th and 6^th and up to 6 on three dates at Itatiaia NP.

 

Rufous-headed Tanager – Hemithraupis ruficapilla ruficapilla (Endemic) C

We saw 1 at Caraca NP on the 4^th, 2 at Corcovado on the 14^th and 2 on two dates in Itatiaia NP.

 

Hooded Tanager – Nemosia pileata caerulea C

We saw a single individual in a remnant patch of forest at Carmo on the 29^th.

 

Olive-green Tanager – Orthogonys chloricterus (Endemic) C

We saw 20 at Itatiaia NP on the 17^th, 1 on the 18^th and 2 on the 19^th. They proved common at Hotel Ype.

 

Flame-crested Tanager – Tachyphonus cristatus brunneus C

We saw 2 at Fazenda Angelim on the 13^th and 15^th and 20 at Corcovado on the 14^th.

 

Ruby-crowned Tanager – Tachyphonus coronatus C

Singles were identified on four dates at Serra dos Tucanos, Canastra NP, the Agulhas Negras road and Itatiaia NP.

 

White-lined Tanager – Tachyphonus rufus C

Seen on seven dates at sites including Serra dos Orgaos NP, Serra dos Tucanos where the daily maximum of 8 was seen on the 30th, Ubatuba and Itatiaia NP.

 

Black-goggled Tanager – Trichothraupis melanops C

Seen on fifteen dates at sites including Serra dos Orgaos NP, Serra dos Tucanos, Caraca NP, Canastra NP, Ubatuba where a daily maximum of 12 were seen on the 14^th and Itatiaia NP. Often seen attending Antswarms. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as rare in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Red-crowned Ant-Tanager – Habia rubica rubica C

We saw 1 at Serra dos Orgaos NP on the 27^th, 1 at Serra dos Tucanos on the 30^th and 3 at Fazenda Angelim on the 13^th.

 

Hepatic Tanager – Piranga flava saira C

We saw a pair in trees by the monastery at Caraca NP on the 5^th.

 

Brazilian Tanager – Ramphocelus bresilius dorsalis (Endemic) C

We saw 2 males at the Lodge at Serra dos Tucanos on the 30^th, and up to 7 daily on all three dates at Ubatuba.

 

Sayaca Tanager – Thraupis sayaca sayaca C

Seen on twenty dates at sites including Serra dos Tucanos, Caraca NP, Cipo, Canastra NP, Ubatuba and Itatiaia NP where the daily maximum of 20 were seen on the 16^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Azure-shouldered Tanager – Thraupis cyanoptera (Endemic) C

We saw a pair along the San Pedro Trail at Serra dos Orgaos NP on the 27^th and 1 there on the 28^th and 2 at Serra dos Tucanos on the 1^st and 1 there on the 2^nd. TBW (2000) treats this species as Near-threatened as agricultural conversion and deforestation for mining and plantation production are historic threats to its lowland forests.

 

Golden-chevroned Tanager – Thraupis ornate (Endemic) C

Seen on eight dates at sites including Serra dos Tucanos, Fazenda Angelim and Itatiaia NP where the daily maximum of 20 was recorded on the 17^th.

 

Palm Tanager – Thraupis palmarum palmarum C

Up to 3 were seen daily on three dates at Serra dos Tucanos and singles were seen at Ubatuba on two dates.

 

Diademed Tanager – Stephanophorus diadematus C

Only seen along the Agulhas Negras road where we saw 20 on the 15^th and 60 the following day.

 

Purple-throated Euphonia – Euphonia chlorotica serrirostris C

We identified singles at Serra dos Tucanos on the 30^th and at Caraca NP on the 4^th.

 

Violaceous Euphonia – Euphonia violacea auranticollis C

We saw 2 at Serra dos Tucanos on the 29^th.

 

Chestnut-bellied Euphonia – Euphonia pectoralis C

Seen on eight dates at sites including Serra dos Orgaos NP, Serra dos Tucanos, Ubatuba at Itatiaia NP where the daily maximum of 10 was seen on the 17^th.

 

Blue-naped Chlorophonia – Chlorophonia cyanea cyanea C

We saw up to 8 in a flowering tree near the monastery at Caraca NP on two dates and up to 12 at the Hotel Ype feeders in Itatiaia NP on two dates. Superb.

 

Green-headed Tanager – Tangara seledon C

Seen on eight dates at sites including Serra dos Tucanos, Ubatuba and Itatiaia NP where the daily maximum of 15 were seen at the Hotel Ype feeders on the 17^th.

 

Red-necked Tanager – Tangara cyanocephala cyanocephala C

We saw up to 15 daily on three dates around the Lodge at Serra dos Tucanos and up to 15 daily on two dates at Ubatuba. Superb.

 

Brassy-breasted Tanager – Tangara desmaresti (Endemic) C

Seen on seven dates at sites including Serra dos Orgaos NP, Serra dos Tucanos where the daily maximum of 60 were seen on the 2nd, Caraca NP and Itatiaia NP.

 

Gilt-edged Tanager – Tangara cyanoventris (Endemic) C

Seen on seven dates at sites including Caraca NP, Canastra NP where the daily maximum of 12 weas seen on the 11^th and Itatiaia NP. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Burnished-buff Tanager – Tangara cayana chloroptera C

Seen on twelve dates at sites including Serra dos Orgaos NP, Serra dos Tucanos, Caraca NP, Cipo where the daily maximum of 8 were seen on the 7th, Canastra NP and the Agulhas Negras road. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Blue Dacnis – Dacnis cayana paraguayensis C

Seen on seventeen dates at sites including Serra dos Orgaos NP, Serra dos Tucanos where the daily maximum of 6 were seen on the 2^nd, Caraca NP, Cipo, Canastra NP, Ubatuba and Itatiaia NP. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Green Honeycreeper – Chlorophanes spiza axillaries C

A single individual was seen at Serra dos Tucanos on the 30^th.

 

Chestnut-vented Conebill – Conirostrum speciosum speciosum C

We saw 2 in the grounds of the Serra dos Tucanos Lodge on the 30^th.

 

Swallow Tanager – Tersina viridis viridis C

We saw 4 in the good forest near Jose de Barreiro (see Forrester (1993)) on the 11^th, 3 at Fazenda Angelim on the 13^th and 3 at Fazenda Capricorno on the 14^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Rufous-collared Sparrow – Zonotrichia capensis C

Seen on eighteen dates at sites including Serra dos Tucanos, Caraca NP, Cipo, Canastra NP, Ubatuba, the Agulhas Negras road where the daily maximum of 25 were seen on the 16th and Itatiaia NP. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Grassland Sparrow – Ammodramus humeralis C

We saw 4 at Cipo on the 7^th and up to 50 daily on three dates at Canastra NP. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Bay-chested Warbling-Finch – Poospiza thoracica (Endemic) C

This species was only seen along the Agulhas Negras road where 2 were seen on the 15^th and 15 the following day.

 

Red-rumped Warbling-Finch – Poospiza lateralis lateralis C

This species was only seen along the Agulhas Negras road where 6 were seen on the 15^th and 10 the following day.

 

Cinereous Warbling-Finch – Poospiza cinerea (Endemic) C

We saw 2 along the road beyond the summit at Cipo on the 7^th. TBW (2000) treats this species as Vulnerable owing to a rapid and ongoing reduction in suitable habitat with the conversion to agriculture being massive since 1950.

 

Striped-tailed Yellow-Finch – Sicalis citrina citrina C

We saw 20 on top of the escarpment at Canastra NP on the 10^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Saffron Finch – Sicalis flaveola C

Seen on eight dates at sites including Semiduro, Serra dos Tucanos, Canastra NP and Ubatuba where the daily maximum of 15 was seen on the 13^th.

 

Grassland Yellow-Finch – Sicalis luteola C

We tentatively identified just 2 at Semiduro on the 29^th.

 

Wedge-tailed Grass-Finch – Emberizoides herbicola herbicola C

We saw 1 at Canastra NP on the 9^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Great Pampa-Finch – Embernagra platensis platensis C

We saw 1 on the 8^th and 2 on the 10^th in the foothills between Sao Roque de Minas and the entrance gate of Canastra NP on top of the escarpment (see Forrester (1993)). This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Pale-throated Serra-Finch – Embernagra longicauda (Endemic) C

We saw 1 along the Piscina Trail at Caraca NP and 1 near the Cipo summit on the 6^th and 3 at a marshy area near the Cipo summit on the 7^th. TBW (2000) treats this species as Near-threatened stating that increasing conversion of land for cattle ranching is presumably the principal threat,

 

Blue-black Grassquit – Velatinia jacarina jacarina C

We saw 2 near the good forest near Jose de Barreiro (see Forrester (1993)) on the 11^th and 2 at Ubatuba on the 14^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Yellow-bellied Seedeater – Sporophila nigricollis nigricollis

JFC saw 8 at Canastra NP on the 11^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Dubois Seedeater – Sporophila ardesiaca (Endemic) C

We saw a male along the Ponte Dobode Trail at Caraca NP on the 4^th, a male at Canastra NP on the 9^th and a pair there the following day.

 

Double-collared Seedeater – Sporophila caerulescens C

We saw a flock of 8 at Semiduro on the 29^th, 1 at Canastra on the 8^th and 3 there the next day and 1 at Itatiaia NP on the 16^th.

 

Green-winged Saltator – Saltator similes C

We saw 1 at Serra dos Tucanos on the 30^th and pairs at Carara NP on both the 5^th and 6^th.

 

Thick-billed Saltator – Saltator maxillosus C

We saw a pair along the Bamboo Trail at Serra dos Tucanos on the 1^st and another pair near Hotel Ype in Itatiaia NP on the 17^th.

 

Black-throated Saltator – Saltator atricollis C

We saw 2 at Cipo on the 6^th and 6 there the following day, 8 at Canastra on the 9^th and 2 there on the 11^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Yellow-billed Blue Finch – Porphyrospiza caerulescens C

We saw a fine male near the Cipo summit on the 7^th, 3 at Canastra on the 10^th and 3 there the following day. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as rare in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations. TBW (2000) treats this species as Near-threatened as habitat conversion to agriculture, for Eucalyptus plantations, soybeans and pasture for exportable crops have severely impacted its habitat, particularly in Brazil. Two thirds of cerrado habitat had been extensively or significantly modified by 1993, with most destruction having occurred since 1950.

 

Crested Oropendola – Psarocolius decumanus C

Seen on fifteen dates at sites including Serra dos Tucanos, Caraca NP, Canastra NP and Ubatuba where the daily maximum of 8 was seen on the 13^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Red-rumped Cacique – Cacicus haemorrhous affinis C

We saw 10 at Fazenda Angelim on the 13^th and 2 at Ubatuba the following day and up to 25 daily on three dates at Itatiaia NP.

 

Golden-winged Cacique – Cacicus chrysopterus C

We saw 2 at the small farm along the Agulhas Negras road on the 15^th.

 

Chestnut-capped Blackbird – Agelaius ruficapillus C

We saw 25 at Itatiaia Marsh on the 19^th proving the last new species of the trip.

 

White-browed (Red-breasted) Blackbird – Sturnella superciliaris C

We saw 2 males near Semiduro on the 3^rd.

 

Yellow-rumped Marshbird – Pseudoleistes guirahuro C

We saw a male on leaving Caraca NP on the 6^th, 6 below the escarpment at Canastra NP on the 9^th and 2 there on the 11^th. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Chopi Blackbird – Gnorimopsar chopi chopi C

We saw 25 in palms at Cipo village on the 7^th and 10 there the following day and 3 at Canastra NP on the 10^th and 10 there the following day. This species is listed by Silveira (1998) as common in Serra da Canastra NP and adjacent areas based on the author’s observations.

 

Shiny Cowbird – Molothrus bonariensis bonariensis C

Seen on six dates at sites including Semiduro where the daily maximum of 20 was seen on the 3rd, Canastra NP and Itatiaia NP.

 

Giant Cowbird – Molothrus oryzivorus oryzivora C

We saw 4 near Teresopolis on the 27^th and 4 at Semiduro on the 29^th.

 

Hooded Siskin – Carduelis magellanica C

We saw a pair near the Cipo summit on the 7^th and a pair near the pool along the Agulhas Negras road on the 16^th.

 

House Sparrow – Passer domesticus C

Seen or heard on six dates at Sao Roque de Minas where the daily maximum of 12 was seen on the 9th and Ubatuba.

 

 

Abbreviations used in Systematic List for references as follows:

 

TBW (2000)

BirdLife International (2000) Threatened birds of the world. Barcelona and Cambridge, UK: Lynx Edicions and BirdLife International.

 

Ferguson-Lees (2001)

Ferguson-Lees, J. and Christie, D.A. (2001) Raptors of the world. London: Christopher Helm.

 

Forrester (1993)

Forrester, B. C. (1993) Birding Brazil: a check-list and site guide. Irvine, Scotland: privately published.

 

HBW (1992)

Del Hoyo, J., Elliott, A. and Sargatal, J., eds. (1992) Handbook of the birds of the world, 1. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions.

 

HBW (1994)

Del Hoyo, J., Elliott, A. and Sargatal, J., eds. (1994) Handbook of the birds of the world, 2. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions.

 

HBW (1996)

Del Hoyo, J., Elliott, A. and Sargatal, J., eds. (1996) Handbook of the birds of the world, 3. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions.

 

HBW (1997)

Del Hoyo, J., Elliott, A. and Sargatal, J., eds. (1997) Handbook of the birds of the world, 4. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions.

 

HBW (1999)

Del Hoyo, J., Elliott, A. and Sargatal, J., eds. (1999) Handbook of the birds of the world, 5. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions.

 

HBW (2001)

Del Hoyo, J., Elliott, A. and Sargatal, J., eds. (2001) Handbook of the birds of the world, 6. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions.

 

HBW (2002)

Del Hoyo, J., Elliott, A. and Sargatal, J., eds. (2002) Handbook of the birds of the world, 7. Barcelona: Lynx Edicions.

 

Silveira (1998)

Silveira, L.F. (1998) The birds of Serra da Canastra National Park and adjacent areas, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Cotinga 10: 55-65.

 

JvW (2001)

van der Woude, J. (2001) Birding sites – trip report SE Brazil 2001. Privately published.

 

 

References, in addition to the above, used to attempt to identify to subspecies level:

 

Clements, J.F. (2000) Birds of the World: A Checklist. Pica Press.