This document provides a detailed itinerary and daily summaries for a 7-day birdwatching tour of cloud forest areas in northwest Ecuador. The tour visits several important bird areas between 3400-400m elevation, targeting a wide range of bird species across different habitats. Key sites visited include Yanacocha Reserve, Reserva Las Gralarias lodge, Mashpi Bosque Protector, Rio Silanche Bird Sanctuary, Refugio Paz de las Aves, and Milpe Bird Sanctuary. Over 100 bird species are observed across forest, woodland, and dry valley habitats, including many endemic species such as Indigo Flowerpiercer, Moss-backed Tanager, and Giant Antpitta.
Narwhals are an endangered species of whale known as the "unicorns of the sea" that live in the Arctic. They have a long ivory tusk and can dive very deep for long periods of time. Narwhals are threatened by predators like polar bears and orcas, as well as by human hunters who have pursued them for their ivory horns for centuries, contributing to their endangered status today.
This 11-day bird watching program in Manu, Peru offers guests the opportunity to see a diverse array of bird species across different ecosystems. Guests will travel through the Andes slopes and cloud forest, spotting over 60 species of hummingbirds, 70 species of antbirds, and more. The itinerary includes visits to macaw clay licks, canopy towers, and mammal salt licks to observe birds, monkeys, tapirs and other wildlife. Lodging is provided in biological stations and eco-lodges along the route. Guests can expect to see over 500 bird species by the end of the tour.
The document summarizes a 6-night riverboat voyage along the Amazon River with World Wildlife Fund. It describes experiencing the rainforest and wildlife with naturalist guides, including seeing over 130 bird species. Activities included hiking, visiting indigenous villages along the river, and learning about the local flora and fauna such as giant water lilies and howler monkeys. Meals on board featured Peruvian specialties and evening entertainment from the guides.
National Geographic Photographers: Paul Nicklenguimera
Emperor penguins have evolved speed and streamlined bodies to help them escape predators at the edge of ice holes in Antarctica. Their dense, overlapping feathers trap an insulating layer of air when diving and swimming, allowing them to propel quickly out of the water. Photographer Paul Nicklen observed emperor penguins gathering speed underwater before racing towards exit holes in the ice. Leopard seals are the main predators for penguins and other seals in Antarctica, hunting and sometimes playing with their prey. Nicklen witnessed both the grace and ferocity of leopard seals as they hunted penguins and other seals, prolonging their deaths at times. Over many expeditions to document Arctic and Antarctic wildlife, Nicklen gained unique insights into animals like
The document provides information about different penguin species in 3 or less sentences per species. It discusses the black footed penguin, erect-crested penguin, Galapagos penguin, Gentoo penguin, king penguin, little blue penguin, macaroni penguin, Magellanic penguin, emperor penguin, chinstrap penguin, Peruvian penguin, rockhopper penguin, royal penguin, Snares crested penguin, Fiordland crested penguin, Adelie penguin and yellow eyed penguin. Key details provided for each species include their physical characteristics, habitat and diet.
This document describes 14 different ecotourism programs offered at Periyar Eco Tourism in Kerala, India. The programs include guided nature walks, treks, camping, rafting, and opportunities to learn about local tribes and wildlife. Activities range from half-day hikes to overnight jungle camping trips. Most programs are offered in small groups of up to 6 people at different times and along different routes through the forests and landscapes at Periyar Tiger Reserve.
Narwhals are an endangered species of whale known as the "unicorns of the sea" that live in the Arctic. They have a long ivory tusk and can dive very deep for long periods of time. Narwhals are threatened by predators like polar bears and orcas, as well as by human hunters who have pursued them for their ivory horns for centuries, contributing to their endangered status today.
This 11-day bird watching program in Manu, Peru offers guests the opportunity to see a diverse array of bird species across different ecosystems. Guests will travel through the Andes slopes and cloud forest, spotting over 60 species of hummingbirds, 70 species of antbirds, and more. The itinerary includes visits to macaw clay licks, canopy towers, and mammal salt licks to observe birds, monkeys, tapirs and other wildlife. Lodging is provided in biological stations and eco-lodges along the route. Guests can expect to see over 500 bird species by the end of the tour.
The document summarizes a 6-night riverboat voyage along the Amazon River with World Wildlife Fund. It describes experiencing the rainforest and wildlife with naturalist guides, including seeing over 130 bird species. Activities included hiking, visiting indigenous villages along the river, and learning about the local flora and fauna such as giant water lilies and howler monkeys. Meals on board featured Peruvian specialties and evening entertainment from the guides.
National Geographic Photographers: Paul Nicklenguimera
Emperor penguins have evolved speed and streamlined bodies to help them escape predators at the edge of ice holes in Antarctica. Their dense, overlapping feathers trap an insulating layer of air when diving and swimming, allowing them to propel quickly out of the water. Photographer Paul Nicklen observed emperor penguins gathering speed underwater before racing towards exit holes in the ice. Leopard seals are the main predators for penguins and other seals in Antarctica, hunting and sometimes playing with their prey. Nicklen witnessed both the grace and ferocity of leopard seals as they hunted penguins and other seals, prolonging their deaths at times. Over many expeditions to document Arctic and Antarctic wildlife, Nicklen gained unique insights into animals like
The document provides information about different penguin species in 3 or less sentences per species. It discusses the black footed penguin, erect-crested penguin, Galapagos penguin, Gentoo penguin, king penguin, little blue penguin, macaroni penguin, Magellanic penguin, emperor penguin, chinstrap penguin, Peruvian penguin, rockhopper penguin, royal penguin, Snares crested penguin, Fiordland crested penguin, Adelie penguin and yellow eyed penguin. Key details provided for each species include their physical characteristics, habitat and diet.
This document describes 14 different ecotourism programs offered at Periyar Eco Tourism in Kerala, India. The programs include guided nature walks, treks, camping, rafting, and opportunities to learn about local tribes and wildlife. Activities range from half-day hikes to overnight jungle camping trips. Most programs are offered in small groups of up to 6 people at different times and along different routes through the forests and landscapes at Periyar Tiger Reserve.
The Galapagos Islands, extensively explored and probed by a young Charles Darwin (paving the way for his theory of evolution and hence it being described as a living laboratory), are a true paradise of bright white beaches and crystal-clear waters that are home to a uniquely diverse abundance of wildlife, much of which is not found anywhere else on Earth. It is consequently another of Ecuador's many regions that have been declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO.
The document provides information about three penguin species: macaroni penguins, emperor penguins, and chinstrap penguins. Macaroni penguins can spend up to 4-5 months at sea, weigh up to 13 pounds, and have yellow crested feathers. Emperor penguins are the largest species, can dive down 1,700 feet, and are popular. Chinstrap penguins are the most numerous species, have a black line under their chin, and live in Antarctica.
Day 1 involves arriving in Arusha for lunch and then traveling to Ngorongoro Conservation Area to check into Ngorongoro Wildlife Lodge, located on the rim of the massive Ngorongoro Crater. Day 2 involves descending into the crater floor in the early morning for game viewing, as the crater is home to many species of wildlife including elephant, rhino, and lion. Day 3 involves traveling from Ngorongoro to Serengeti National Park for afternoon game drives and overnighting at Seronera Wildlife Lodge. Days 4 involves morning and afternoon game drives in Serengeti National Park. Day 5 includes traveling to Lake Manyara National Park for lunch and afternoon game viewing for species like elephant,
1. The Andean condor is one of the largest flying birds in the world, with adults measuring up to 142 cm tall with a 270-330 cm wingspan.
2. Condors reach sexual maturity at around 8 years old and have a reproductive cycle that takes 2-3 years, with the longest incubation period of any bird of prey at 56-60 days.
3. Andean condor populations have declined dramatically throughout their range due to threats like habitat loss and are now critically endangered in some countries in the northern Andes.
The document provides an overview of the Galapagos Islands, describing their location off the coast of Ecuador, the unique wildlife found there such as giant tortoises and Darwin's finches, and how the isolation of the islands allowed evolution to produce species found nowhere else. It details the islands' climate, culture, history of discovery and tourism industry as well as explaining how the wildlife originally reached the archipelago.
This 12-day luxury safari in Northern Tanzania includes stays at exclusive lodges and tented camps while visiting five national parks - Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, and Arusha. Activities include game drives, walking safaris, and interactions with local Masai people. The itinerary provides full board accommodations, park entrance fees, guides, and transportation between destinations.
This document discusses the extinction of numerous bird species from various locations around the world. It provides details on each extinct species such as their habitat, population trends over time, and primary factors contributing to their extinction including hunting, habitat loss, introduction of invasive species, and other human impacts. Many of the extinct birds were endemic to isolated islands which made them especially vulnerable.
The owl is a nocturnal bird that lives in forests and sleeps during the day. It hunts at night, eating small animals like squirrels, rabbits, raccoons, and birds. Owls have large eyes, a flat face, and can turn their heads 270 degrees. The lynx is a typical animal in Romania that comes from the cat family. As a mammal, it lives in forests and eats meat. There are three species of lynx: the Eurasian, Canada, and Iberian lynx.
This 11-day tour package through northern Tanzania includes wildlife viewing in several famous parks and reserves, including Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, and Serengeti National Park. Guests will go on game drives, visit Olduvai Gorge, and have the option to go on a hot air balloon safari in Serengeti. The tour is priced at $2,495 per person for a group of 4 or $3,982 per person for a group of 2 and includes accommodations, game drives, park fees, and activities listed in the itinerary. International flights, additional excursions, and personal expenses are not included.
This 11-day tour package from Elyon Tours Tanzania includes wildlife viewing in several national parks in northern Tanzania, including Tarangire, Ngorongoro, and Serengeti. Guests will go on game drives, visit Olduvai Gorge, and have the option to go on a hot air balloon safari in Serengeti. The itinerary provides details of activities, meals, and accommodations for each day. Rates are provided for groups of 4 people.
The Cloud Penguin lives in both Antarctica and Chilean rainforests. It is the only species of penguin capable of flight, using its wings to fly at speeds up to 45 km/h. Cloud Penguins migrate between the two habitats annually, breeding in the rainforests during summer and foraging in Antarctic waters during winter. They lay two eggs and both parents cooperate in incubation and chick rearing. Threats to the species include climate change, fishery interactions, and oil pollution.
Bats are nocturnal animals that live in most parts of the world except very cold areas. They eat insects, fruit, nectar, pollen or fish and use echolocation to navigate at night. The bull is the national animal of one country and lives on farms, eating plants. It sleeps at night like most mammals. Bulls cannot see the color red. Sheep, the national animal of one region, live on farms and eat plants. They sleep at night in their farms, and the first cloned animal was a sheep named Dolly.
The document provides information about Emperor Penguins, the largest species of penguin. It notes that Emperor Penguins stand up to 4 feet tall and can weigh up to 100 pounds, though they cannot fly. They live in Antarctica, the coldest environment for any bird, where temperatures can drop to -40 degrees. Emperor Penguins migrate over 50 miles to breeding grounds and have specific breeding and social patterns, including the male sitting on the egg for 65 days without eating while the female hunts.
Western and central andean endemics and choco specialtiesNet Midas Inc.
- This document provides information about a 15-day birdwatching tour of Colombia from July 1-15, 2016, including dates for future tours.
- The tour will visit diverse landscapes in Colombia home to nearly 2,000 bird species, the most of any country, including cloud forests, wetlands, valleys, and mountain plains. Key areas visited include El 18, Sonso Lagoon, Montezuma Lodge, Otun-Quimbaya Reserve.
- The itinerary provides details on the areas visited each day, the species that may be seen, and the lodging. The tour aims to observe many endemic and near-endemic species, and give participants an appreciation of Colombia's culture
Butterflies and Birds of North Greece - Holiday Report 2015Edward Hutchings
This document provides a summary of a wildlife holiday trip to Lake Kerkini National Park in Greece from June 6-13, 2015. The trip was led by Julian Dowding and Ed Hutchings of Greenwings Wildlife Holidays and focused on observing butterflies and birds in the diverse habitats around the lake. Over the course of the trip, the group observed over 130 butterfly species, 300 bird species, and other wildlife. Each day consisted of multiple stops around the lake and surrounding areas where they observed and identified various species of birds, butterflies, dragonflies, and other wildlife.
We have the advantage of being able to offer you exclusive itineraries in the depths of the Ecuadorian Amazon. Shiripuno Lodge enjoys the privilege of being located in the core of the 16.820 km2 of the Yasuni Biosphere Reserve(Yasuni National Park & Waorani Ethnic Reserve) The Yasuni is situated at a unique biographical position, the crossroads of the Andes (Andean foothills), the Western Amazon, and the Equator; where the diversity of amphibian, bird, mammal, and vascular plant species reach their global maxima.
This document summarizes the key birding regions in Peru and their signature bird species. It identifies six main regions - North, Center, South, Coastal, Desert, and Sierra. The North has over 1200 bird species including many endemics. The Coastal region along the Pacific coast is home to 54 endemic species like the White-winged Guan. The Desert region is extremely dry but has valleys with unique birds such as the Black-necked Woodpecker. The Sierra region at 4000m features high-altitude specialists like the Black-breasted Hillstar.
The document provides information about EcoCamp Patagonia, a camp located in Torres del Paine National Park in Chile. It discusses the park's history from its indigenous inhabitants over 1000 years ago to its designation as a biosphere reserve in 1978. It then describes some of the park's key features, including its mountains, glaciers, and various plant and animal species found there. The EcoCamp offers guided tours on an interpretative trail to learn about the local flora.
This natural park in Spain is home to over 200 species of animals and plants, including 51 mammal species. It was designated a UNESCO biosphere reserve and contains some of the oldest pine trees in Spain that are over 1,300 years old. Though some mammal species became extinct due to human activity, deer and other animals have been reintroduced. The park experiences dramatic climate changes and is an important watershed.
A project produced and published in 2004 by Martin Hatchuel with private-sector funding as a gift to the Knysna National Lakes Area (now incorporated into the Garden Route National Park).
This document provides an overview of visiting Uganda and wildlife viewing opportunities there. It describes a trip to Kibale National Park where visitors were able to observe chimpanzees up close, including a 26-year-old male named Totti who may become the next leader of his group. It also details experiences in Queen Elizabeth National Park, such as witnessing lions hunting and a female lion feeding her cubs an antelope kill. Conservation efforts are discussed to help reduce conflicts between local communities and wildlife by decreasing pressures like livestock killing, poaching, and disruptive tourist activities.
The St. Louis Zoo was established in 1904 and has grown significantly over the years. It is now home to over 9,000 animals representing 800 species. Some of the zoo's most prominent areas include the Children's Zoo with animal exhibits and a playground; the Bird Garden with outdoor bird cages; the Reptile House containing reptiles and amphibians; the Insectarium with a butterfly house; and the Primate House housing monkeys and lemurs. The zoo also features exhibits for penguins, bears, great apes, animals along the river's edge, and big cats and hoofed animals.
The Galapagos Islands, extensively explored and probed by a young Charles Darwin (paving the way for his theory of evolution and hence it being described as a living laboratory), are a true paradise of bright white beaches and crystal-clear waters that are home to a uniquely diverse abundance of wildlife, much of which is not found anywhere else on Earth. It is consequently another of Ecuador's many regions that have been declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO.
The document provides information about three penguin species: macaroni penguins, emperor penguins, and chinstrap penguins. Macaroni penguins can spend up to 4-5 months at sea, weigh up to 13 pounds, and have yellow crested feathers. Emperor penguins are the largest species, can dive down 1,700 feet, and are popular. Chinstrap penguins are the most numerous species, have a black line under their chin, and live in Antarctica.
Day 1 involves arriving in Arusha for lunch and then traveling to Ngorongoro Conservation Area to check into Ngorongoro Wildlife Lodge, located on the rim of the massive Ngorongoro Crater. Day 2 involves descending into the crater floor in the early morning for game viewing, as the crater is home to many species of wildlife including elephant, rhino, and lion. Day 3 involves traveling from Ngorongoro to Serengeti National Park for afternoon game drives and overnighting at Seronera Wildlife Lodge. Days 4 involves morning and afternoon game drives in Serengeti National Park. Day 5 includes traveling to Lake Manyara National Park for lunch and afternoon game viewing for species like elephant,
1. The Andean condor is one of the largest flying birds in the world, with adults measuring up to 142 cm tall with a 270-330 cm wingspan.
2. Condors reach sexual maturity at around 8 years old and have a reproductive cycle that takes 2-3 years, with the longest incubation period of any bird of prey at 56-60 days.
3. Andean condor populations have declined dramatically throughout their range due to threats like habitat loss and are now critically endangered in some countries in the northern Andes.
The document provides an overview of the Galapagos Islands, describing their location off the coast of Ecuador, the unique wildlife found there such as giant tortoises and Darwin's finches, and how the isolation of the islands allowed evolution to produce species found nowhere else. It details the islands' climate, culture, history of discovery and tourism industry as well as explaining how the wildlife originally reached the archipelago.
This 12-day luxury safari in Northern Tanzania includes stays at exclusive lodges and tented camps while visiting five national parks - Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, and Arusha. Activities include game drives, walking safaris, and interactions with local Masai people. The itinerary provides full board accommodations, park entrance fees, guides, and transportation between destinations.
This document discusses the extinction of numerous bird species from various locations around the world. It provides details on each extinct species such as their habitat, population trends over time, and primary factors contributing to their extinction including hunting, habitat loss, introduction of invasive species, and other human impacts. Many of the extinct birds were endemic to isolated islands which made them especially vulnerable.
The owl is a nocturnal bird that lives in forests and sleeps during the day. It hunts at night, eating small animals like squirrels, rabbits, raccoons, and birds. Owls have large eyes, a flat face, and can turn their heads 270 degrees. The lynx is a typical animal in Romania that comes from the cat family. As a mammal, it lives in forests and eats meat. There are three species of lynx: the Eurasian, Canada, and Iberian lynx.
This 11-day tour package through northern Tanzania includes wildlife viewing in several famous parks and reserves, including Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, and Serengeti National Park. Guests will go on game drives, visit Olduvai Gorge, and have the option to go on a hot air balloon safari in Serengeti. The tour is priced at $2,495 per person for a group of 4 or $3,982 per person for a group of 2 and includes accommodations, game drives, park fees, and activities listed in the itinerary. International flights, additional excursions, and personal expenses are not included.
This 11-day tour package from Elyon Tours Tanzania includes wildlife viewing in several national parks in northern Tanzania, including Tarangire, Ngorongoro, and Serengeti. Guests will go on game drives, visit Olduvai Gorge, and have the option to go on a hot air balloon safari in Serengeti. The itinerary provides details of activities, meals, and accommodations for each day. Rates are provided for groups of 4 people.
The Cloud Penguin lives in both Antarctica and Chilean rainforests. It is the only species of penguin capable of flight, using its wings to fly at speeds up to 45 km/h. Cloud Penguins migrate between the two habitats annually, breeding in the rainforests during summer and foraging in Antarctic waters during winter. They lay two eggs and both parents cooperate in incubation and chick rearing. Threats to the species include climate change, fishery interactions, and oil pollution.
Bats are nocturnal animals that live in most parts of the world except very cold areas. They eat insects, fruit, nectar, pollen or fish and use echolocation to navigate at night. The bull is the national animal of one country and lives on farms, eating plants. It sleeps at night like most mammals. Bulls cannot see the color red. Sheep, the national animal of one region, live on farms and eat plants. They sleep at night in their farms, and the first cloned animal was a sheep named Dolly.
The document provides information about Emperor Penguins, the largest species of penguin. It notes that Emperor Penguins stand up to 4 feet tall and can weigh up to 100 pounds, though they cannot fly. They live in Antarctica, the coldest environment for any bird, where temperatures can drop to -40 degrees. Emperor Penguins migrate over 50 miles to breeding grounds and have specific breeding and social patterns, including the male sitting on the egg for 65 days without eating while the female hunts.
Western and central andean endemics and choco specialtiesNet Midas Inc.
- This document provides information about a 15-day birdwatching tour of Colombia from July 1-15, 2016, including dates for future tours.
- The tour will visit diverse landscapes in Colombia home to nearly 2,000 bird species, the most of any country, including cloud forests, wetlands, valleys, and mountain plains. Key areas visited include El 18, Sonso Lagoon, Montezuma Lodge, Otun-Quimbaya Reserve.
- The itinerary provides details on the areas visited each day, the species that may be seen, and the lodging. The tour aims to observe many endemic and near-endemic species, and give participants an appreciation of Colombia's culture
Butterflies and Birds of North Greece - Holiday Report 2015Edward Hutchings
This document provides a summary of a wildlife holiday trip to Lake Kerkini National Park in Greece from June 6-13, 2015. The trip was led by Julian Dowding and Ed Hutchings of Greenwings Wildlife Holidays and focused on observing butterflies and birds in the diverse habitats around the lake. Over the course of the trip, the group observed over 130 butterfly species, 300 bird species, and other wildlife. Each day consisted of multiple stops around the lake and surrounding areas where they observed and identified various species of birds, butterflies, dragonflies, and other wildlife.
We have the advantage of being able to offer you exclusive itineraries in the depths of the Ecuadorian Amazon. Shiripuno Lodge enjoys the privilege of being located in the core of the 16.820 km2 of the Yasuni Biosphere Reserve(Yasuni National Park & Waorani Ethnic Reserve) The Yasuni is situated at a unique biographical position, the crossroads of the Andes (Andean foothills), the Western Amazon, and the Equator; where the diversity of amphibian, bird, mammal, and vascular plant species reach their global maxima.
This document summarizes the key birding regions in Peru and their signature bird species. It identifies six main regions - North, Center, South, Coastal, Desert, and Sierra. The North has over 1200 bird species including many endemics. The Coastal region along the Pacific coast is home to 54 endemic species like the White-winged Guan. The Desert region is extremely dry but has valleys with unique birds such as the Black-necked Woodpecker. The Sierra region at 4000m features high-altitude specialists like the Black-breasted Hillstar.
The document provides information about EcoCamp Patagonia, a camp located in Torres del Paine National Park in Chile. It discusses the park's history from its indigenous inhabitants over 1000 years ago to its designation as a biosphere reserve in 1978. It then describes some of the park's key features, including its mountains, glaciers, and various plant and animal species found there. The EcoCamp offers guided tours on an interpretative trail to learn about the local flora.
This natural park in Spain is home to over 200 species of animals and plants, including 51 mammal species. It was designated a UNESCO biosphere reserve and contains some of the oldest pine trees in Spain that are over 1,300 years old. Though some mammal species became extinct due to human activity, deer and other animals have been reintroduced. The park experiences dramatic climate changes and is an important watershed.
A project produced and published in 2004 by Martin Hatchuel with private-sector funding as a gift to the Knysna National Lakes Area (now incorporated into the Garden Route National Park).
This document provides an overview of visiting Uganda and wildlife viewing opportunities there. It describes a trip to Kibale National Park where visitors were able to observe chimpanzees up close, including a 26-year-old male named Totti who may become the next leader of his group. It also details experiences in Queen Elizabeth National Park, such as witnessing lions hunting and a female lion feeding her cubs an antelope kill. Conservation efforts are discussed to help reduce conflicts between local communities and wildlife by decreasing pressures like livestock killing, poaching, and disruptive tourist activities.
The St. Louis Zoo was established in 1904 and has grown significantly over the years. It is now home to over 9,000 animals representing 800 species. Some of the zoo's most prominent areas include the Children's Zoo with animal exhibits and a playground; the Bird Garden with outdoor bird cages; the Reptile House containing reptiles and amphibians; the Insectarium with a butterfly house; and the Primate House housing monkeys and lemurs. The zoo also features exhibits for penguins, bears, great apes, animals along the river's edge, and big cats and hoofed animals.
Ecuador is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world in terms of bird species. It has over 1,600 recorded bird species, more than any other country per square kilometer. Its various ecosystems ranging from sea level to over 6,000 meters provide diverse habitats for birds. Popular areas for birdwatching include the cloud forests of Mindo, the Chocó rainforests of Silanche, and the páramo of Antisana Reserve. The small size of Ecuador allows travelers to easily access different ecosystems and cover a variety of habitats within a short period of time.
Charles Babbitt set out to find all 13 owl species found in Arizona in a single year. He started by hearing Great Horned and Western Screech owls near his home on New Year's Day. Over the course of the year, he traveled across Arizona, finding owls like Northern Saw-whet in the San Francisco Peaks and Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl at Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument. The most memorable were a Spotted Owl watching him from a tree in the Huachuca Mountains and a Long-eared Owl nesting in Ganado Wash. By the end of 2009, Babbitt had achieved his goal of seeing all 13 owl species in Arizona.
Presentation includes a fictitious diary of individuals on an African Safari in order to create a food web. Following the diary, there are questions to be answered by students. The pictures are all from an African Safari in Kenya in November 2011.
The mammals of treasure international park etwinning2
The document discusses various mammals found across several European countries and national parks. It describes the European bison as the heaviest surviving land animal in Europe that lives in herds. It also mentions squirrels that live in Świętokrzyski National Park and can be seen if lucky. Otters that live in Drawieński National Park are also discussed. Several endangered species are described, such as the Iberian lynx, Cantabrian brown bear, and Iberian wolf that live in the Iberian Peninsula. Mammals from Slovakia, Spain, Poland, and the Czech Republic are also summarized, including descriptions of their physical characteristics and habitats.
Wonders of the southwest plants wildlife in grand canyon national parkPapillon
http://www.papillon.com/grand-canyon-national-park | The Grand Canyon is one of the world’s most spectacular sights, featuring diverse plant and animal communities. A Grand Canyon helicopter tour is one of the best ways to see this geological marvel.
Wonders of the Southwest: Plants & Wildlife in Grand Canyon National ParkPapillon
http://www.papillon.com/grand-canyon-national-park | The Grand Canyon is one of the world’s most spectacular sights, featuring diverse plant and animal communities. A Grand Canyon helicopter tour is one of the best ways to see this geological marvel.
The document provides observations from a trip to several national parks in Costa Rica, including Manuel Antonio National Park and Carara National Park. Over 50 species of birds, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals were observed, including Scarlet Macaws, Ferruginous Pygmy Owls, Bronzy Hermits, Purple-crowned Fairies, Baird's Trogons, Blue-crowned Motmots, Ringed Kingfishers, White-collared Puffbirds, Toucans, Basilisk lizards, Boa constrictors, Sloths, Howler Monkeys, Squirrel Monkeys, and Capuchin Monkeys. Many photos were taken but some did not turn
9 Beautiful and Rare Species Found Only in AustraliaThe Aussie Way
The climate and huge terrain of Australia are as distinctive as the animals that inhabit it. And despite Australia’s abundance of lethal and dangerous creatures, you shouldn’t worry about them because everything has been done to ensure that everyone is safe.
Climate change and the effects of land clearing, which are tragically affecting life in Australia.
You can help maintain the natural ecosystem not just in Australia but all over the world by identifying tiny methods to reduce climate change and global warming.
Visit: https://theaussieway.com.au/9-beautiful-and-rare-species-found-only-in-australia/
In Peru, there are over 1830 bird species, a veritable paradise for bird lovers who like to enjoy Bird Photography Trips around the globe. From these vast varieties of birds, we at Birds of Peru Tours have chosen the five rarest bird species to make your journey awe-inspiring while witnessing them. Birds of Peru Tours urges you to explore fascinating birds that could be seen and that set up an area of protection for several animal species. Do not hesitate to call us if you need more information about the International Birding Tours. For more information visit us at https://birdsofperutours.com/.
Rare and spectacular species of birds of the world -(catherine)Catherine Dewilde
1. The document summarizes 15 rare and beautiful bird species from around the world that are nearing extinction, including the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock from South America known for its colorful crests, the Turquoise-Browed Motmot also from South America with its bright colors and movable tail, and the nocturnal, flightless Kakapo parrot found in New Zealand.
2. It also describes birds like the poisonous Hooded Pitohui of New Guinea whose bright feathers burn human skin, the Quetzal sacred to Mayan people, and the large Great Curassow of Central America that nests high in trees.
3. Rarer species mentioned include
The document discusses the sagebrush steppe landscape of western North America. It describes the iconic landscape as spanning over 150 million acres historically but having been reduced to around 106 million acres today due to development, wildfires, and invasive species. The sagebrush steppe provides crucial habitat for over 350 wildlife species, including greater sage-grouse, pronghorn, golden eagles, and mule deer. Government agencies and conservation groups are working to protect the remaining sagebrush habitat for both wildlife and economic activities like hunting, fishing, and ranching.
Spain vs Croatia Euro 2024 Spain's Chance to Shine on the International Stage...Eticketing.co
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Match By Match Detailed Schedule Of The ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024.pdfmouthhunt5
20 Teams, One Trophy: What to Expect from the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024
The ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024 is set to be an exciting event, co-hosted by the West Indies and the USA from June 1 to June 29, 2024. This edition of the tournament will feature a record 20 teams divided into four groups, competing across 55 matches for the prestigious title.
Luciano Spalletti Leads Italy's Transition at UEFA Euro 2024.docxEuro Cup 2024 Tickets
Italy are the defending European champs, but after Luciano Spalletti swapped Roberto Mancini last September, they are still taking the cautious first steps of a new era
Boletin de la I Copa Panamericana de Voleibol Femenino U17 Guatemala 2024Judith Chuquipul
holaesungusto.- Boletín final de la I Copa Panamericana de Voleibol Femenino U17 - Ciudad de Guatemala 2024 que se realizó del 27 de mayo al 01 de julio, en el Domo Polideportivo Zona 13.
Fuente: norceca.net
Belgium vs Slovakia Belgium Euro 2024 Golden Generation Faces Euro Cup Final ...Eticketing.co
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Belgium vs Romania Ultimate Guide to Euro Cup 2024 Tactics, Ticketing, and Qu...Eticketing.co
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According to the report, the consumption of video content related to IPL 2024 has seen significant growth, nearly 3 times more than the previous season, reflecting an increasing interest of fans.
Netherlands vs Austria Netherlands Face Familiar Foes in Euro Cup Germany Gro...Eticketing.co
The Netherlands are in Group D in Euro Cup Germany - and, unpaid to this, they will be coming up against familiar foes. Remarkably, they have played France, who have fashioned some of the greatest players of all time, 30 times throughout history. Despite France being more effective in major competitions, including captivating the World Cup in 2018, Holland have the greater head-to-head record.
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However, in 2023, they played one another twice, with France endearing both matches 4-0 and 2-1 individually. Against Poland and Austria, the Netherlands also have a stout record, winning just under half the matches. They faced Austria at Euro 2020, engaging 2-0, and they haven't lost to Poland since 1979.
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Five days later, they travel south to face France in Leipzig, a side led by Kylian Mbappe - one of the finest players in the world currently and one of the most impressive players in his nation's history. To conclude, they face Austria in Berlin, knowing it could be the end of the road if they don't perform.
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Psaroudakis: Family and Football – The Psaroudakis Success StoryPsaroudakis
Psaroudakis, a name that resonates with football fans around the globe, is a testament to the powerful synergy between familial support and individual passion. Born on March 10, 1992, in the historic city of Heraklion, Crete, Psaroudakis’ journey to international football stardom is a compelling narrative of dedication, perseverance, and unwavering family support. His story not only highlights his athletic prowess but also underscores the crucial role his family played in shaping his career and character.
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"Of course, you prefer to take players who are fully fit, but that's okay. We want to wait and be patient for some players even if they cannot play in those first matches," he told a press conference. The 37-year-old Vertonghen, Belgium’s Euro Cup 2024 most-capped international with 154 appearances, is struggling to shake off a groin injury.
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Reporte feb2011
1. Cloud Forest Birds of Northwest Ecuador
19 - 25 February 2011
Dark-backed Wood-quail
Text and photos by Dušan M. Brinkhuizen
2. CLOUD FOREST BIRDS OF NORTHWEST ECUADOR 19-25 FEBRUARY 2011
Introduction
Our “Cloud Forest Birds of Northwest Ecuador tour” is based at Reserva Las Gralarias. This reserve covers over 400 hectares of
Chocó Cloud-forest and has a very comfortable lodge. It is located in the Mindo region which is one of the Important Bird Areas (IBA)
in Ecuador. All the famous birding sites are at short distance from the lodge and easily reached by car. The tour lies within the Chocó
Endemic Bird Area. The Chocó supports the largest number of restricted-range birds of any EBA in the Americas with over 50
species being endemic to the area. In a single week we do daytrips covering different elevations ranging from 3400m to 400m
elevation. In this way we target a wide range of bird species and visit a nice set of different habitats.
Tour itinerary
Day 1 - 19 February - Yanacocha
Day 2 - 20 February - Reserva Las Gralarias
Day 3 - 21 February - Mashpi Bosque Protector
Day 4 - 22 February - Rio Silanche Bird Sanctuary
Day 5 - 23 February - Refugio Paz de las Aves and Mindo Valley
Day 6 - 24 February - Milpe Bird Sanctuary and Milpe road
Day 7 - 25 February - Bellavista area and Calacali race-track
Day-by-day reports
Day 1 - 19 February - Yanacocha
The Yanacocha reserve is probably the best and most easy accessible place to bird pristine temperate forest on the west-slope of
the Andes in Ecuador. It is located on the north-western flank off the Pichincha Volcano just outside off Quito at 3400m. It is home to
the critically endangered Black-breasted Puffleg. Unfortunately, the species has not been reported here for the last two years. On the
way to the reserve a stop in secondary woodland produced a few species including Paramo Pipit, Plain-colored Seedeater, Azara’s
Spinetail, Rufous-naped Brush-finch and Cinereous Conebill. In the small canyon just before getting to Yanacocha we watched
Brown-bellied Swallows and got good views of a singing Tawny-rumped Tyrannulet. Once at the reserve we started at the new
“antpitta feeding station”. Sylvio, the ranger, called in a Tawny Antpitta that soon came to feed on earthworms at a few feet distance
away. At the start of the Inca-trail we heard no less than five species of antpitta namely Undulated Antpitta, Chestnut-naped Antpitta,
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3. CLOUD FOREST BIRDS OF NORTHWEST ECUADOR 19-25 FEBRUARY 2011
Chestnut-crowned Antpitta, Tawny Antpitta and Rufous Antpitta. One of our first birds seen along the trail was a Smokey Bush-tyrant
shortly followed by two Andean Guans. White-browed Spinetails were vocal at several spots along the trail but it took us a while
before we got the species into view. In contrast, a Crowned Chat-tyrant was cooperative and showed itself nicely. Our first proper
flock consisted of Superciliaried Hemispingus, White-throated Tyrannulet, White-banded Tyrannulet, Spectacled Whitestart and Blue-
backed Conebill. The best bird that joined the flock was a Bar-bellied Woodpecker that we got to see well. At the hummingbird
feeders we got Sapphire-vented Puffleg, Golden-breasted Puffleg, Sword-billed Hummingbird, Great Sapphirewing, Buff-winged
Starfrontlet, Mountain Velvetbreast and Tyrian Metaltail. Activity was good with lots of Masked and Glossy Flowerpiercers. A family
flock of Rufous Wrens showed well but it took us some time to get the Scarlet-bellied Mountain-tanager in view. A Rufous Antpitta
came in after song playback and hopped out on the trail just a few feet away. On the way back we got a perfect flock at eye-level
including stunning Golden-crowned Tanagers, Black-chested Mountain-tanagers, Streaked Tuftedcheek and Pearled Treerunner. At
the rocky hillside we watched a female Rainbow-bearded Thornbill at close range. A Short-eared Owl was perched on a fencepost on
the way back. The owl showed well both perched and in flight. A short stop in a dry valley near Calacali yielded good views of Band-
tailed Sierra-finch and Streak-backed Canastero. We also got Ash-breasted Sierra-finch, Common Ground-dove and a Tropical
Mockingbird.
Day 2 - 20 February - Reserva Las Gralarias
Reserva Las Gralarias is one of the best birding sites for Chocó endemic Cloud-forest species. The reserve ranges from 1700 to
2300m in elevation and consists of mainly pristine habitat. At dawn we had a Beautiful Jay calling right outside the guesthouse. We
left the breakfast table behind and went looking for it straight away. It turned out to be a wise decision as the bird was moving away
from us. With the help of song playback we got the bird moving in our direction and soon we got excellent looks of it. A great start of
the day! After finishing our breakfast we started with the trail system behind the guesthouse. A Sickle-winged Guan was one of the
first birds seen but it was shy and moved away quickly. Webb spotted a Cinnamon Flycatcher right above our heads and a Gray-
breasted Wood-wren was glimpsed in the understory. A pair of Russet-crowned Warblers showed well while singing at close range.
A Spotted Barbtail was seen probing on a mossy branch. A nice mixed-flock further along the trail included Blue-winged Mountain-
tanagers, Golden-naped Tanagers, Dusky Bush-tanagers, Capped Conebill, Blackburnian Warbler, three Streaked Tuftedcheeks and
a nice Crimson-mantled Woodpecker. A female Masked Trogon was seen perched in de midstory. We heard Dark-backed Wood-
quails calling and Slaty-backed Nightingale-thrushes were vocal too. Both Moustached and Yellow-breasted Antpittas remained
heard only. A Plate-billed Mountain-toucan was calling but we had difficulties seeing it. In the fog we could only get a glimpse of its
shape high up in the canopy. A female Green-and-black Fruiteater showed itself shortly in the sub-canopy. A pair of active Mountain
Wrens was seen moving through the midstory. Just before we got back to the lodge we watched four Plate-billed Mountain-toucans
foraging in the canopy above us. Maroon-tailed Parakeets were perched in the trees at the guesthouse. Tim, a volunteer researcher
at Las Gralarias, had just spotted and photographed a Puma that was sleeping on a trail. Some of us went down with him to look for
it, but unfortunately it wasn’t there when we arrived. We did see the tracks of where the large cat had been resting. At the feeders at
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4. CLOUD FOREST BIRDS OF NORTHWEST ECUADOR 19-25 FEBRUARY 2011
the guesthouse we watched a large number of hummingbirds including Velvet-purple Coronet, Buff-tailed Coronet, Gorgeted
Sunangel, Brown Inca, Violet-tailed Sylph, Speckled Hummingbird, Booted Racket-tail, Andean Emerald, Purple-throated Woodstar,
Fawn-breasted Brilliant, Rufous-tailed Hummingbird and Empress Brilliant. Flame-faced Tanager, Golden-naped Tanager, Golden
Tanager, Blue-winged Mountain-tanager, Orange-bellied Euphonia, Masked Flowerpiercer and Sickle-winged Guan were coming to
the banana feeders. In the afternoon we hiked down the lower part of the reserve. Bird activity was very low and only few birds were
seen. Our rarest bird was a Tawny-throated Leaftosser that we heard only. We watched an old nest of a Moustached Antpitta. We
got a few flocks with new species including Scaly-throated Foliage-gleaner, Lineated Foliage-gleaner, Three-striped Warbler, Rusty-
winged Barbtail, Slate-throated Whitestart and Brown-capped Vireo. A Wedge-billed Woodcreeper was seen well, a little high up for
its altitudonal range. Late afternoon it started to rain and we got picked up by our driver Juan Carlos.
Day 3 - 21 February - Mashpi Bosque Protector
The Mashpi reserve is a superb Chocó birding site. It is easily reached by car and offers roadside birding through excellent forest
between 900 and 1300m elevation. Some rare Chocó endemics seem to be more reliable here than elsewhere what makes the
birding even better. We started the morning with a cracking Indigo Flowerpiercer. First we got it singing in top of a tree and later it
flew into the flowering scrub along the roadside. We got some great views of this rare bird as it was moving at eye-level through the
vegetation. Shortly after the flowerpiercer we got our first Moss-backed Tanager. This sought-after species was surprisingly common
this day and apart from many singles seen we also got a flock of 12 individuals together! A flock of noisy Blue-fronted Parrotlets flew
by as we were watching another Moss-backed Tanager. A Black Solitaire was seen for only a split second before it disappeared into
the vegetation. A Pale-vented Thrush was seen better. We birded our way walking down the road regularly encountering small
mixed-species flocks. A good flock had a few Pacific Tuftedcheeks and a Brown-billed Scythebill. Other flock species included
Rufous-rumped Antwren, Glistening-green Tanager, Black-chinned Mountain-tanager and Rufous-throated Tanager. A Black-billed
Peppershrike was singing from a nearby treetop but we never got to see it. Further down we run into our first Toucan Barbets of the
trip. We also got nice views of a Crimson-rumped Toucanet. We detected a Bronze-olive Pygmy-tyrant by its wing snaps. It was
moving steadily through the understory. We tried hard for the Chocó Vireo but the species was heard only shortly. Lower down closer
to the Mashpi hotel we watched a Barred Hawk flying by and a pair of Barred Becards showed nicely. In the lower stretch of forest
past the hotel bird activity turned out low. We did get a few flocks but not many new species were added. Just before heading back to
Las Gralarias we got good views of a Black Solitaire.
Day 4 - 22 February - Rio Silanche Bird Sanctuary
Rio Silanche is a popular day-trip for the Chocó lowland species. It is a small “island” reserve that still holds a good number of
interesting birds. Sadly, the surrounding area is covered with palm plantations. At a small lagoon we taped for the rare Brown Wood-
rail but we did not get a response. A Green Kingfisher was perched on a snag and a few Pale-vented Pigeons landed on top of a
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5. CLOUD FOREST BIRDS OF NORTHWEST ECUADOR 19-25 FEBRUARY 2011
tree. In a Cecropia we watched a pair of Gray-and-Gold Tanager and Blue-necked Tanager. A Rufous Motmot was first seen at a
distance. Its distinctive call confirmed the identification and later on it perched much closer by. A small flock moved through and
species like Tawny-crested Tanager and White-shouldered Tanager were picked out. We made a few short birding stops along the
drive. A pair of Cinnamon Woodpeckers, Pacific Antwren and Pale-mandibled Aracari were the best birds seen. At the reserve we
started with a pair of Guayaquil Woodpeckers that showed well. Bird activity at the canopy tower was low so we continued our walk
into the forest. A Band-tailed Barbthroat was singing from its lek and we located the hummingbird in the dense undergrowth. A
Broad-billed Motmot showed itself well and its shovel-shaped bill was characteristic. Blue-crowned Manakin, White-bearded Manakin
and Purple-throated Fruitcrow were all seen inside the forest. A pair of Mealy Amazon gave a loud call as they landed right above us.
This large parrot is scarce at Rio Silanche and we were happy to get some nice views. Black-striped Woodcreeper, Guira Tanager
and Scarlet-browed Tanager were some new species that we added to the list. A male Western White-tailed Trogon was the only
species of trogon seen that day. A Slaty-capped Shrike-vireo was seen well in the sub-canopy. This species is usually very hard to
see. A female Blue-black Grosbeak was foraging in the understory and showed itself at close range. The grosbeak is actually not that
regular at Rio Silanche. On our way out we got two species of barbet in a flock namely Red-headed Barbet and Orange-fronted
Barbet. An Osprey was kind of a surprise on the drive back. It was perched in a tree at close range. Where was the water?
Day 5 - 23 February - Refugio Paz de las Aves and Mindo Valley
Refugio Paz de las Aves near Nanegalito is a birding site not to be missed. Two brothers, Angel and Rodrigo, feed worms and fruits
to birds inside the forest; birds that got habituated to human presence. Many of the birds he feeds are elusive species and watching
them at close range is a unique experience. At dawn Angel tried to call in the Colombian Screech-owl. His imitation was perfect, even
better than tape playback, but the owl did not respond. On the way down we heard a Giant Antpitta singing. The bad news was that
Angel had not seen world famous “Maria” for over three months. She was either incubating or she had past away. The weird thing is
that last year Maria did come out to collect earthworms, also during the nesting season. Hopefully the lack of Giant Antpittas turns
out to be a seasonal pattern otherwise Angel has to look for new “amigos”. It had been raining a lot the last month so the Giant
Antpittas might have had an abundance of food in the forest and did not need to come in for “extra” worms. At the lek we watched
two males Andean Cock-of-the-rock in display. There was no sign of a female and activity dropped after about half an hour. We
waited for the Giant Antpitta for about an hour. Angel and Rodrigo were trying hard but no sign of the species. During our stop we did
watch two Olivaceous Pihas. Regularly one of the birds was making a spectacular sound presumably with its wings. A very loud rattle
just like White-bearded Manakin and/or Long-wattled Umbrellabird. No wonder taxonomists recently placed the Pihas in the cotinga
family! We tried to locate “Shakira”, the Ochre-breasted Antpitta, but also no luck. “This time of year is bad for antpittas”, Angel told
us sadly. However, at the spot we did hear a Scaled Fruiteater calling from nearby. The fruiteater responded well to tape and soon
we all got good looks of this nicely patterned bird. We hiked back up to the fruit feeders and waited for a while for the birds to come
in. The Sickle-winged Guans were the first species to come in. There was one recent fledgling present that was significantly smaller
than the other guans. Blue-winged Mountain-tanagers and Black-chinned Mountain-tanagers showed up at very close range. A pair
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6. CLOUD FOREST BIRDS OF NORTHWEST ECUADOR 19-25 FEBRUARY 2011
of Toucan Barbets came to feed on the bananas and showed itself fantastically. A few Crimson-rumped Toucanets came in as well.
Webb spotted a White-throated Quail-dove crossing the trail. Soon we got two of them in view as they were preening themselves in
the understory. A Wedge-billed Hummingbird visited a flower inside the forest. After about an hour it was time to look for “Suzan”, the
Moustached Antpitta. The bird was waiting on the trail as we arrived. It was feeding a chick so it left swiftly after it had filled its beak
with worms. We got short but very good looks of it. Rodrigo called us and a little higher up the trail he showed us a family group of
Dark-backed Wood-quails. Two adults with their chick were feeding on the worms right at our feet. Back at the parking lot we got
brief looks of a male Orange-breasted Fruiteater. After the typical “Paz de las Aves” breakfast we went to look again for the fruiteater.
Soon Angel had spotted both male and female and we got excellent views. A mixed-species flock went by at eye-level and we got
great looks of Metallic-green Tanager and Crimson-mantled Woodpecker. We went to a new site for the Yellow-breasted Antpitta and
on our way we taped a Nariño Tapaculo. The tapaculo came in aggressively and we even got to see it. “Willy 2” the new Yellow-
breasted Antpitta, came in after a few minutes and showed itself very well. In the afternoon we went to the Mindo Valley. Just out of
Mindo we birded a small patch of grassland and scrub. New birds seen at this site included Bran-colored Flycatcher, Black-and-white
Seedeater, Dull-colored Grassquit and Black-striped Sparrow. Near the butterfly-farm we went into a side-trail where we watched two
Chocó Toucans at close range. A male Golden-headed Quetzal flew in a tree at the same site. Nearby we also got a pair of
Guayaquil Woodpeckers. On the way back we met Fernando, a local guide that showed us a Scarlet-backed Woodpecker. He also
knew a day-roost of a Common Potoo. The little drive was worthwhile and apart from the potoo we also got to see an Andean
Solitaire. At the river we checked for Torrent Duck but got a nice White-capped Dipper instead.
Day 6 - 24 February - Milpe Bird Sanctuary and Milpe road
The Milpe reserve offers some great birding in the foothills of the western Andes at 1100m. Perhaps it is the best place to get the
Club-winged Manakin, a Chocó speciality. We went straight down to the display grounds of the Club-winged Manakin. A male
showed itself well while doing its courtship dance. A little further down the trail we heard a Golden-winged Manakin. In contrast to the
spectacular display of the previous species the Golden-winged Manakin has a rather poor way of attracting mates. The male was
perched motionless on a snag in the understory. It sat there for minutes and once in a while produced a soft “burp” call. The black-
and-yellow plumage, especially the crown, made up for it though. We heard three species of trogon calling: Chocó Trogon, Collared
Trogon and Northern Violaceous Trogon. The latter species is often named Gartered Trogon and is actually rare at this site. An
Emeraldas Antbird was seen in the understory and later on we got to see the Collared Trogon. A mixed-flock produced species
including Ochre-breasted Tanager, Tawny-breasted Myiobius, Chocó Warbler, Slaty-capped Flycatcher, Spotted Woodcreeper,
Lineated Foliage-gleaner and Scaly-throated Foliage-gleaner. A Pale-vented Thrush was seen well and at the car park we watched a
Yellow-collared Chlorophonia. At the hummingbird feeders we watched Green Thorntails, Green-crowned Brilliant, Green-crowned
Woodnymph, Andean Emerald, Rufous-tailed Hummingbird, a Purple-bibbed Whitetip and a White-whiskered Hermit. In the forest we
got Band-tailed Barbthroat and Purple-crowned Fairy. A pair of White-winged Tanagers responded well to playback and we got some
nice looks of this bright colored species. Two Gray-headed Kites were noticed by their call and we watched them from the car park.
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7. CLOUD FOREST BIRDS OF NORTHWEST ECUADOR 19-25 FEBRUARY 2011
We continued birding at “Milpe Garden”, a short distance down the road. The forest is more pristine here but the birding can be
harder (less birdy). At the start of the trail we got a female Immaculate Antbird. Bird activity was low and the flocks produced hardly
any new species. Rufous-rumped Antwren was a new addition. Very nice was the find of a nest of Russet Antshrike. The nest was
being build by the pair in the midstory and we could watch the birds well. After lunch we went birding to the end of the Milpe road.
There is still some forest left here and some rare species have been reported from this site. It is a slightly lower elevation than the
Milpe reserve and some lowland species start to show up. On the way we saw a pair of Masked Tityra and a pair of Black-crowned
Tityra perched in a single tree. The tree had a nest hole and the Black-crowned Tityras were inspecting it. The male showed very
well while the female went inside the hole. Other species that we picked up along the drive include White-thighed Swallow and Gray
Hawk. At the site we went into the forest on a muddy trail. A small understory flock looked promising but the only bird we got in view
was a small woodpecker. Most probably a Red-rumped Woodpecker but we did not get the red rump on it so we couldn’t confirm the
identification. We heard a Tawny-faced Gnatwren calling from the understory and after playback we got the tiny bird in the bins. A
Thrush-like Schiffornis sang from a distance but soon came in after playback. The bird perched right in the open and sat there for
quite a while. It continued singing and we got some stunning looks of it. A Spotted Nightingale-thrush was heard singing and it came
in as well. After a few minutes we got good views of this scarce and beautiful thrush. On the way back we flushed a large bird above
our heads. It turned out to be a male Chocó Trogon. We had heard the species twice this day but seeing it well was a real treat. We
ended the day with a pair of Scarlet-browed Tanagers and a Little Cuckoo along the road.
Day 7 - 25 February - Bellavista area and Calacali race-track
The Bellavista Cloud-forest Reserve provides easy roadside birding. Our first stop was at the start of the “Eco-ruta”, just past San
Tadeo. A mixed-flock produced some good birds including a pair of showy Barred Becards. The becards did not follow the flock but
stayed around as they were probably nesting just next to the road. A male Golden-headed Quetzal was calling from the valley below.
After a few imitation whistles the bird flew in and showed itself well but shortly. Our next stop was higher up the road. As we stepped
out of the car we watched a Plate-billed Mountain-toucan being mobbed by a Turquoise Jay. The viewing conditions were perfect
and we enjoyed watching these two stunning species for a moment. A little further down the road a Red-billed Parrot flew in a treetop
that we watched from above. A quick stop was made as Suzan spotted a flying raptor. We jumped out of the vehicle and watched a
pair of Hook-billed Kites soaring low over the forest. Great views! At the well known curve we searched for the very rare Tanager
Finch. The bird activity was zero during our walk but just before we went back into the car we heard a few fine “chips”. “Possibly
Tanager Finch”. Believe it or not but 2 min. later we were watching a pair of Tanager Finch at a few feet distance! A car with birders
passed by at the right time and joined us watching these rare birds. Walking for 20 min. and seeing just one species of bird, the
“rarest” one, that’s just pure luck! At the “biostation” road we played again for Ocellated Tapaculo but unfortunately only got a distant
response. A Chestnut-crowned Antpitta was singing from above and it was glimpsed shortly in a window. A male Green-and-black
Fruiteater was seen well higher up the road. Our next stop was a bamboo patch down the “Miraflores road. This is a good place for
Plain-tailed Wren and within less than a minute we got great looks of a family group. A loud call raised our attention and two Black-
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8. CLOUD FOREST BIRDS OF NORTHWEST ECUADOR 19-25 FEBRUARY 2011
and-chestnut Eagles were flying right above us. Light conditions were not perfect plus some branches blocked our views.
Nevertheless, the huge birds performed a short flight show at close range. At one point the birds grabbed each other by their claws
and dropped down in an acrobatic way. One bird was significantly smaller, probably the male. We had a delicious box-lunch (KFC-
style chicken breaded in coconut) at the mirador and the eagles flew by again. We drove back to Quito after lunch in order to spend
some more quality time at the dry valley near Calacali. A good start was a large flock (200+) of Grassland-yellow Finches that was
foraging on freshly seeded vegetation. Other species that we got include Band-tailed Seedeater, Ash-breasted Sierra-finch, Hooded
Siskin, Cinereous Conebill, Tufted Tit-tyrant, Southern Yellow Grosbeak, Black-tailed Trainbearer, Sparkling Violetear and Blue-and-
yellow Tanager. A Tropical Mockingbird was a nice catch-up for some of us. The rarest bird of the valley flew up right in front of us
and perched nicely on a snag. It was the very rare White-tailed Shrike-tyrant which has a vulnerable status. The future of this species
in the valley is not that bright as they are planning to build more houses. Another surprise was a Green-tailed Trainbearer that was
first noticed by Webb. This species is usually found inside the crater of Pululahua, not that far from our site. Well, given the fact that
we got Tanager Finch, Black-and-chestnut Eagle and White-tailed Shrike-tyrant on a single day; our last day of the trip was certainly
a success!
Acknowledgements
Species list of birds
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