SOUTHEAST BRAZIL TOUR REPORT 2024

26 October - 16 November 2024

by Fito Downs

Our Southeast Brazil Tour, including the Rio Grande do Sul extension, proved once again to be one of the most successful tours for observing a large number of endemic species in Brazil. We explored a variety of habitats—not limited to the Atlantic Forest—ranging from the spectacular Vale Reserve near Espírito Santo to Rio Grande do Sul. Along the way, we traversed diverse ecosystems such as Tabuleiro Forest, Restinga, Wetlands and Marshes, Bamboo Thickets, Araucaria Forest, Mangroves, Grasslands, Pristine Forests, and more. Our itinerary also included notable state parks and protected areas such as Serra dos Órgãos, Kaetés Reserve, Serra do Mar, Itatiaia, REGUA, Intervales State Park, Pico da Caledônia, and others.
Among the many highlights of the tour, some of the standout species encountered early on included the rare Pearly-breasted Cuckoo, Black-headed and Hooded Berryeaters, the endangered Red-billed Curassow, the endemic Ochre-marked and White-eared Parakeets, and several Solitary Tinamous. We also had close and prolonged views of the local and endemic Black-cheeked Gnateater. A White-necked Hawk was seen flying over us from the tower at Vale Reserve, where we also encountered the unique East Brazilian Pygmy Owl.
Additional highlights from the first week included the elegant Swallow-tailed Cotinga, the uncommon Cinnamon-vented Piha, the local Wied’s Tyrant-Manakin, Rufous-brown Solitaire, and many Sharpbills. Other notable species were the Spot-billed Toucanet, Bare-throated Bellbird, Red-ruffed Fruitcrow, the impressive Black-billed Scythebill, and piculets such as the White-barred and Ochre-collared. These sightings made the first week truly memorable.
Later in the trip, we encountered species such as the uncommon Long-tailed Potoo with a chick, several Giant Snipes near REGUA, Orange-eyed Thornbird, a pair of Tawny-browed Owls, and Rufous-sided Crake. Additional highlights included Long-billed Wren, Black-and-Gold and Gray-winged Cotingas, Itatiaia Spinetail, Serra do Mar Tyrant-Manakin, and various antbirds such as Rufous-tailed, Dusky-tailed, Ferruginous, and Ochre-rumped. We also observed Crescent-chested Puffbird, Hangnest Tody-Tyrant, Rufous Gnateater, Spotted Bamboowren, Buff-throated Purpletuft, the endangered Black-hooded Antwren, Saw-billed Hermit, Frilled and Festive Coquettes, Red-necked Tanager, Brazilian Ruby, Rusty-barred Owl, Blue-bellied Parrot, White-bearded and Giant Antshrikes, Pileated Parrot, Saffron Toucanet, Black-capped Piprites, Brassy-breasted Tanager, and Green-crowned and Purple-crowned Plovercrests. The Atlantic Royal Flycatcher, Rufous-capped Antthrush, and Variegated Antpitta were also seen. Noteworthy sightings towards the end of the main tour included Red-tailed and Red-browed Amazons, Black-backed Tanager, Buff-bellied Puffbird, Squamate Antbird, Scarlet Ibis, Mangrove Rails, and Azure Jay.
The Rio Grande do Sul extension was equally successful. We achieved all our target species, including the Black-bellied Seedeater, Straight-billed Reedhaunter, Long-tailed Cinclodes, Canebrake Groundcreeper, Sickle-winged Nightjar, Olive Spinetail, Mottled Piculet, Blacksmith Thrush, Saffron-cowled Blackbird, Glaucous-blue Grosbeak, Restinga Tyrannulet, Kaempfer’s Tody-Tyrant, Red-spectacled Amazon, Black-and-White Monjita, Chestnut-headed Tanager, Speckle-breasted Antpitta, and Tropeiro Seedeater. By the end of the tour, we had recorded an impressive total of 536 species, including 26 species of hummingbirds, 17 species of woodpeckers, 22 species of parrots and parakeets, and 35 species of antbirds, showcasing the incredible success of this expedition.

Our trip began at 10 AM in the city of Vitória. We headed to one of the regional reserves called Águia Branca. We arrived at the site shortly after lunch and began observing the first species of the trip, such as Picazuro Pigeons, Ruddy Ground Doves, Great Kiskadees, Smooth-billed Anis, Southern Lapwings, and Sick’s Swifts. At the entrance lagoon, we spotted a Green Kingfisher, Lineated Woodpecker, Boat-billed Flycatchers, Western Cattle Egret, and Rufous-bellied Thrush. Other less common species in the same area included a Red-breasted Toucan and a Sooty Tyrannulet, which was unique for the trip. We also found a Yellow-browed Tyrant and the spectacular Swallow-tailed Cotinga near the buildings.
After spending some time in the semi-open areas and near the lagoon, we ventured further into the forest. One of the first birds we observed was the Blue Manakin, followed by the Long-tailed Tyrant, Rusty-margined Flycatcher (another species unique to the trip), Yellow Tyrannulet, Masked Water Tyrant, Tropical Kingbirds, and Fork-tailed Flycatcher. Soon after, we encountered a mixed flock featuring species such as Chestnut-crowned Becard, White-necked Thrush, Spot-breasted Antvireo, Blue Dacnis, and Cinnamon-vented Piha, which was also unique for the tour. Other highlights included the Green-winged Saltator, Double-collared Seedeater, Ruby-crowned Tanager, Magpie Tanager, and, as we returned from the trail, Brassy-breasted Tanager, Saffron Finch, White-collared Swift, and the trip’s only Yellow-eared Woodpecker.
Later, we visited the Parque Estadual Forno Grande. Bird activity along the trail was slow, so we left and focused on observing birds at the main entrance. One of our objectives was to find the Serra Antwren, but we were unsuccessful. However, at the entrance and along the main road, we saw interesting species such as the Gilt-edged Tanager, Sharp-tailed Streamcreeper, Dusky-throated Hermit, and Rufous Hornero.
On the way to the wetland, we observed Hellmayr’s Pipit and Burrowing Owls. Once at the wetland, we spotted Brazilian Tanager, Crested Caracara, Striated Heron, Gray-breasted Martin, Southern House Wren, Hooded Siskin, Campo Troupial, Grassland Sparrow, Wedge-tailed Grass-Finch, and the uncommon Orange-breasted Thornbird.
We stayed late, as our primary goal was to see the amazing Giant Snipe. The best time to observe it was at dusk, but the weather was uncooperative as it began to rain lightly. Despite this, an individual eventually emerged from the wetland. After several attempts, it settled on the grass not far from us, and with some effort, we got excellent views of this specialty. With no further targets, we departed for our lodge, where we would stay for the next two nights.

The following day, we spent the entire day at the Kaetés Reserve. Leaving the lodge early, we saw Blue-and-white Swallows, Rufous Horneros, Brazilian Teal, and a Whistling Heron foraging near the lodge. Upon arriving at the reserve, we heard a Brown Tinamou and saw a Dusky-legged Guan, one of the most common species during the first week of the tour.
We then took a 4×4 jeep to reach the top of the reserve. In the forest, one of the first birds we observed was the Surucua Trogon. Other sightings included Scaly-headed Parrots, Maroon-bellied Parakeets, Olivaceous Woodcreeper, and Violet-capped Woodnymph. We also heard a Cryptic Antthrush. A mixed flock formed, and we saw Streak-capped Antwren, Greenish Tyrannulet, Ferruginous Antbird, Mottle-cheeked Tyrannulet, Sharpbill, and Rufous-crowned Greenlet.
Further along the trail, we had an elegant Pin-tailed Manakin, which took some effort to locate. Other species included Sepia-capped Flycatchers, Sibilant Sirystes, Greenish Schiffornis, and Black-tailed Myiobius, which was unique for the tour. Additional sightings were Rufous-browed Peppershrike, numerous Rufous-headed Tanagers, Blue Dacnis, Green-winged Saltator, Black-goggled Tanagers, Drab-breasted Bamboo-Tyrant, and a pair of Azure-shouldered Tanagers. We also enjoyed spectacular views of a male Frilled Coquette.
One of the most sought-after species, the White-bibbed Antbird, provided excellent views. We also saw Spot-breasted Antvireo, Ochre-rumped Antbird, Scaled Woodcreeper, the stunning Black-billed Scythebill, Buff-fronted Foliage-Gleaner, Streaked Xenops, and Swallow-tailed Kite. After lunch, we observed Tropical Kingbird, Rufous-bellied Thrush, Maroon-bellied Parakeet, Gray-breasted Martin, Yellow-lored Tody-Flycatcher, and heard a distant Bare-throated Bellbird.
In the late afternoon, we returned to the reserve to search for the ultra-rare Cherry-throated Tanager. Along the trail, we spotted Sharpbill again, Bananaquit, Green-barred Woodpecker, and a male Spot-billed Toucanet.
It was a long day with a lot of ground to cover. Despite focusing on the best areas for the tanager, we didn’t have success. Nonetheless, we recorded many special species for the trip. We then returned to the hotel to try again the next day.

As soon as we arrived at the famous Vale Reserve, we were greeted by an incredible abundance of birds. Parrots and parakeets immediately caught our attention, especially as some species here were unique to this trip. However, the main highlight of the day was the Red-billed Curassow, one of the primary reasons for visiting this reserve.
Near the main building area, we began spotting notable species: Blue-headed Parrots (reichenowi), followed by our first Red-browed Amazons, a flock of Black-necked Aracaris, and some Blue-winged Macaws flying by. In the distance, we saw some perching parrots, and in the same area, we had our first sighting of the Red-billed Curassow. This prompted us to leave the vehicle and follow it as closely as possible. We managed to observe it briefly along with a female, but both quickly retreated into the forest. Later in the morning, we saw several more Red-billed Curassows, including better views in open areas. Around the same spot, we also found the first Blond-crested Woodpecker.
Still in the open areas, we observed more Blue-winged Macaws flying, as well as Orange-winged Amazons, Plain Parakeets, and six White-eared Parakeets that landed very close to us. This species was another target, and we also managed to spot a few Mealy Parrots. After spending some time here, we slowly made our way into the forest.
In the forest, we added several new species to our trip list, including a Gray-crowned Flatbill, Sooretama Slaty Antshrike, Eastern Olivaceous Flatbill, Brown-crested Flycatcher, Thrush-like Wren, and a Brown-winged Schiffornis, though getting a good look at the Schiffornis proved challenging.
Not far from where we found the Schiffornis, we heard the iconic Screaming Piha, a species primarily from the Amazon but with a population in this part of the Atlantic Forest. We then ascended the observation tower, where we had views of additional species. Highlights included a Plumbeous Kite, Black-crowned Tityra, a pair of Yellow-green Grosbeaks (a delightful surprise), and a White-necked Hawk that flew very low over us. From the tower, we also spotted White-bellied Tanagers, Rufous-margined Antwren, Chestnut-vented Conebill, Black-capped Becard, Blue Dacnis, Flame-crested Tanagers, and an exceptionally cooperative East Brazilian Pygmy Owl, which gave us excellent views.
Back on the trail, we tried again to get a better look at the Schiffornis and succeeded. We also had another sighting of the Sooretama Slaty Antshrike, a Black-headed Berryeater, and the rare Pearly-breasted Cuckoo singing high in the trees. We dedicated time to locating this rarity and were rewarded with great views through the spotting scope.
This was a phenomenal morning at Vale Reserve. In the afternoon, we visited another site within the reserve with the Minute Hermit as our primary target. At the known spot for this species, we immediately heard their calls low in the understory. At least eight individuals were present in a small area, performing beautifully for us. Shortly after, we encountered another key species of this location: the Ochre-marked Parakeet. A small group of about ten individuals appeared briefly on the trail. Approaching cautiously, we managed to photograph this significant endemic species.
Later in the afternoon, we visited a wetland area, where we found Southern White-fringed Antwren, Blue-chinned Sapphire, Yellow-fronted Woodpecker, Ferruginous Pygmy Owl, and, unexpectedly, a King Vulture—a species not commonly seen in the Atlantic Forest.
We stayed until late, as our plan was to return in the dark to search for the elusive Solitary Tinamou. On the way back, we spotted several Pauraques, and our strategy worked perfectly, as we saw at least four different Solitary Tinamous between the wetland and the reserve entrance.
Without a doubt, this was an extraordinary day.

The weather forecast for the following day wasn’t promising, and the morning began with light but consistent rain. We heard a Yellow-legged Tinamou, though it was far from the trail. We also spotted a Versicolored Emerald, White-chinned Sapphire, Squirrel Cuckoo, Gray-cowled Wood-Rail, Southern Beardless Tyrannulet, and Ochre-lored Flatbill. As we continued along the path, we managed to find a very important species for the trip, the Cream-colored Woodpecker. Despite the rain, we were treated to a nice view of an adult Black-cheeked Gnateater, which sang to us very close to the path, allowing us to watch it for several minutes.
The rain continued steadily, and while walking, we startled a Pauraque. To our surprise, it had a nest right next to the path with two eggs. Afterward, we ventured a little further to a point near a wetland, where we saw a Grayish Mourner, Greater Ani, Pale-vented Pigeon, Green-backed Trogon, and several other species. Close to another lagoon, we spotted Swallow-winged Puffbirds, followed by White-barred Piculet, Short-crested Flycatcher, Red-stained Woodpecker, Yellow-headed Caracara, Peach-fronted Parakeet, and at the lagoon itself, we observed Cocoi Heron, Common Gallinule, Capped Heron, another Eared Pygmy-Tyrant, Brazilian Tanager, and Moustached Wren.
The last species we encountered in the forest today were Screaming Piha. We also spent some time successfully observing a Cinereous Mourner, a male Red-headed Manakin, several Chivi Vireos, Violaceous Euphonia, Red-rumped Cacique, Red-legged Honeycreeper, Buff-throated Saltator, Sayaca Tanagers, and a pair of Chestnut-bellied Seedeaters.
Leaving the reserve in the late afternoon, we were fortunate to see at least five Red-billed Curassows along the way. Without a doubt, this was one of the highlights of the trip.

The next day, on our journey from Linhares to the Santa Teresa Reserve, we saw several common species along the road, including Southern Lapwing, Crested Caracara, Turkey Vulture, Rock Pigeon, Ruddy Ground Dove, Black Vulture, Gray-breasted Martin, and Saffron Finches.
It wasn’t until we were close to the reserve that we began to spot different species, such as Burnish-buff Tanager and East Brazilian Chachalaca. Before lunch and before entering the reserve, we visited the Santa Teresa Museum, known for its hummingbird feeders. Some of the species we saw for the first time included Planalto Hermit, White-vented Violetear, Scale-throated Hermit, and Amethyst Woodstar (at least two individuals). We also observed Swallow-tailed Hummingbird and Sombre Hummingbird.
A few minutes later, a pair of juvenile Frilled Coquettes appeared, along with two shy Rufous-breasted Hermits, White-throated Hummingbirds, Versicolored Emeralds, and Violet-capped Woodnymphs. Not bad for such a small spot in the middle of the city!
Upon arriving at the reserve, the weather started to change again, and rain began to fall. We had to leave the trail almost as quickly as we entered. While waiting for the rain to subside at the main building, we were able to see several interesting species, such as Yellow-bellied Elaenia, Yellow-backed Becard, Southern Tropical Pewee, Short-crested Flycatcher, and Band-tailed Hornero.
Our key species for the day were the Rufous Brown Solitaire and Wied’s Tyrant Manakin. Fortunately, the rain let up, allowing us to return to the trail. We tried calling for both species, and soon we got a response from the Wied’s Tyrant Manakin. Initially, we thought there were two individuals, but we focused on one bird for several minutes. It moved and called from different locations but didn’t come any closer, so we decided to give it a “rest” and try again later.
Our strategy paid off because, after a few minutes, we tried again and one of the birds came closer. It stayed within view for a short time, allowing us to get some good looks and possibly even a few photos. However, the rain soon returned, and we had to leave the trail once again. By that time, it was quite late, and there were no signs of the Solitaire, so we decided to head back and try again the next day.

The day began with coffee and hummingbirds at the lodge, featuring the species we had seen the previous day, including Black Jacobin, Versicolored Emerald, Violet-capped Woodnymph, and another Slaty-breasted Wood-Rail hanging around near the lodge. After breakfast, we immediately set off for another attempt to see the Serra Antwren.
Upon reaching the Antwren site, we encountered common species such as Rufous-bellied Thrush, Saffron Finches, and Blue-and-White Swallows. While searching for the antwren, we also added new species to the trip list, including the endemic Hangnest Tody Tyrant, Yellow-olive Flatbill, and another endemic, the Rufous Gnateater. Despite our efforts, we were unable to locate the antwren, so we decided to move on to a different site with new targets.
The weather improved significantly that morning, which boosted our hopes for success. We entered the main road of the reserve in search of the Solitaire. After a while, one of the participants spotted a Solitaire crossing the road, though it wasn’t interested in the playback. A few minutes later, we found another individual, which allowed us plenty of time for observation and provided excellent views. With this important target in hand, we continued our long drive towards Nova Friburgo.
As we drove, we saw common species from the vehicle, including Buff-necked Ibis, Southern Lapwing, Blue-and-White Swallows, Crested Caracara, and Roadside Hawk. After lunch, we visited a nearby site to search for one of the day’s key targets: the Pygmy Nightjar. The day was very hot, and we hiked up a trail to a large rocky area where the Nightjar is known to perch during the day.
Nearby, there was a small lagoon where we observed Brazilian Teal, Wattled Jacana, more Roadside Hawks, Great Egret, and Crested Caracaras. At the rocky area, we initially found nothing, but after a few minutes of searching, we flushed a Pygmy Nightjar from its perch. It flew up and landed a short distance away, and although it was a bit tricky to photograph, we managed good views. With that species on the list, we continued our journey towards Nova Friburgo, looking forward to birding Pico da Caledonia the next day.

Today, we ascended Pico da Caledonia in 4×4 jeeps. We reached a viewpoint and began searching for one of the day’s most important targets: the rare and local Gray-winged Cotinga. From the lookout, we spotted a large group of White-collared Swifts, abundant Rufous-collared Sparrows, Blue-billed Black-Tyrants, the elegant Diademed Tanager, Black Vultures, White-tailed Hawk, Scaly-headed Parrot, and Thick-billed Saltator.
In the distance, we heard two key species: the Black-and-Gold Cotinga and, soon after, several Gray-winged Cottingas. We couldn’t locate them from the lookout, so we decided to drive down the road to a lower point where the Cottingas were still calling. After a few minutes, we found one individual feeding in the canopy of small trees near the road.
With this rare Cottinga under our belt, we headed back up the road to bird the upper part of the reserve. Here, we found more Diademed Tanagers, Velvety Black Tyrant, Rufous-capped Antshrike, White-crested Tyrannulet, Serra do Mar Bristle-Tyrant, Olivaceous Elaenia, and we heard Mouse-colored Tapaculo and Rufous-tailed Antthrush. Near the top of the trail, we also observed the endemic Itatiaia Spinetail, completing a very successful morning.
In the afternoon, we returned to the lower section of Pico da Caledonia. Shortly after arriving, we heard the melodious song of the Large-tailed Antshrike near the road. After a few minutes, we got excellent views of this elegant bird. Later, we found Dusky-tailed Antbird, Squirrel Cuckoo, a shy Buff-browed Foliage-Gleaner, and the inconspicuous Serra do Mar Tyrant-Manakin. We also dedicated time to searching for the Black-and-Gold Cotinga, which we finally found after some hard work. Other species in the area included a flock of Brassy-breasted Tanagers, Orange-eyed Thornbird, and glimpses of Mouse-colored Tapaculo. As the day drew to a close, we heard several Brown Tinamou calls in the distance. In the final minutes of light near town, we saw Tropical Kingbird, Sick’s Swifts, Sayaca Tanagers, White-eyed Parakeets, Southern House Wren, Plumbeous Pigeon, and Picazuro Pigeon among other common species.

We had no reason to return to Pico da Caledonia, so we left after breakfast and headed towards Regua. However, before getting there, we passed through a very different environment and had the opportunity to see a few species. One of the objectives for today was to find the Three-toed Jacamar, which led us to the village of Sumidouro. Upon arriving at the known spot, we tried calling for it but received no immediate response. While waiting, we observed other species such as the Guira Cuckoo and Savanna Hawk. Then, we heard the Jacamar responding. A pair was perched at mid-height along the bank of a stream. It was not difficult to spot the species, and this was a unique sighting for the trip. After enjoying the views, we continued our drive towards the next target for the morning: the Serra Antwren.
After an hour’s walk, we reached the village of Carmo, where we aimed to find the first territory of the Serra Antwren. We climbed a short path, about a kilometer long, to reach the site. It didn’t take long before we heard the first bird responding, and shortly after, it came very close, allowing us a good view. We also spotted the lovely Chestnut-backed Antshrike in that area. Once we were satisfied with the views, it was time to head back and continue our journey towards REGUA.
Upon arriving at REGUA, we immediately felt the humidity in the air, and though it was sunny, bird activity was relatively low. Nevertheless, we ventured out to one of the trails in the reserve after lunch. As we passed by the lagoons, we saw species commonly present in the area, including the Social Flycatcher, Yellow-chinned Spinetail, White-headed Marsh Tyrant, Common Gallinule, Wattled Jacanas, and Western Cattle Egrets.
On the trail, we heard a Rufous-capped Motmot. We attempted to locate it but were unsuccessful. Afterward, we heard a Rufous-capped Antthrush singing. We tried to find it as well, but when the bird flew toward us, it stayed deep within the vegetation, making it difficult to get a good view, despite it flying right in front of us. Continuing along the same path, we came across a Long-tailed Potoo nest. This species was a key target for the tour, and we were excited to find it, especially since the nest contained a very large chick, which was nearly as big as an adult!
Despite the intense humidity, it was definitely worth the hike, especially as we were only spending one night at REGUA, and there were several key species to find. After a short break at the lodge, we headed out again for the rest of the afternoon. The open areas around REGUA proved to be very productive. We checked out a few spots and saw several species, including the Lesser Yellow-headed Vulture, Orange-winged Amazon, Savanna Hawk, Yellowish Pipit, a nice pair of Streamer-tailed Tyrants, White-browed Meadowlark, large flocks of White-eyed Parakeets, Rufous-fronted Thornbird, Cattle Tyrant, and Pantanal Snipe.
Next, we moved to another part of REGUA to search for more key species. Our second stop was for the Lemon-chested Greenlet, which we found easily within the first few minutes at the site. Here, we also observed the first Long-billed Wren of the trip, along with Amazon Kingfisher and some Black-bellied Whistling-Ducks. At another open area, we waited for dusk and were rewarded with sightings of Great Egrets, Black-crowned Night-Heron, and a Common Potoo on its nest. In the marsh area, we also saw the Pauraque, and as night fell, we heard the calls of Giant Snipes. At least three individuals flew overhead constantly, but none chose to land nearby.
We continued on to another location to search for owls. The first spot we tried yielded no interesting results, so we moved to a different area, where we got a response from a Tropical Screech-Owl. After a few minutes of waiting, we had excellent views of this owl. Continuing on, we reached another nearby area and received a response from a pair of Tawny-browed Owls. This was a major target for us, and it didn’t take more than ten minutes before we were able to enjoy great views of this remarkable owl. It was an amazing day, with sightings of Long-tailed and Common Potoos, the Tropical Screech-Owl, and a pair of Tawny-browed Owls.

Another day of travel awaited us, but not before we enjoyed a little more of this incredible place. We returned to the lagoon, where we saw more Yellow-chinned Spinetails. We also heard the Blackish Rail and observed White-faced Whistling-Ducks, Capped Heron, Ringed Kingfisher, Chestnut-capped Blackbird, Purple Gallinule, Striated Heron, Western Cattle Egret, Amazon Kingfisher, Campo Flicker, Toco Toucan, White-barred Piculet, Masked Water Tyrant, and many other species.
Before reaching Itatiaia State Park, we made a stop at Praia Seca, near Arraial do Cabo. Our goal here was to find the local Restinga Antwren. As we neared Praia Seca, we started to see a different environment, closer to the coast, with Neotropic Cormorants and Magnificent Frigatebirds. On our walk to the antwren site, we spotted Brown-chested Martins, Blue-and-white Swallows, Tropical Kingbirds, Saffron Finches, Bananaquits, and Fork-tailed Flycatchers. We didn’t have much time to search for the antwren, but we were confident we would find it.
A few minutes later, we began hearing calls from the antwren. The dense vegetation, known as Restinga, made the search challenging. First, we spotted a female briefly emerging from the tangle. We saw her several times before a male appeared. This male was much shyer, hidden deeper within the vegetation. However, after some patience, we got some good views of this endangered species. With this goal accomplished, we continued on our way to Itatiaia State Park.
We arrived at the park late in the afternoon and went straight to the hummingbird feeders. Among the species we expected to see was the Brazilian Ruby. We also observed Ruby-crowned Tanager, White-throated Hummingbird, and Dusky-legged Guans, which were everywhere. Several Maroon-bellied Parakeets and a Cliff Flycatcher also made an appearance to close out the day.

The morning was rainy and misty as we headed up to the upper part of the park, along the Agulhas Negras road. The Dusky-legged Guan was the first bird to show itself. We then heard a mixed flock that included the first Buff-throated Warbling Finch, Brazilian Ruby, Mottle-cheeked Tyrannulet, Pallid Spinetail, and quick glimpses of the Sharp-billed Treehunter, which we saw better later in the morning. At this spot, we also found White-spotted Woodpecker, Gray-headed Tyrannulet, Scaled Woodcreeper, and Diademed Tanager. Our main goal was to find the spectacular Green-crowned Plovercrest, so we moved to a stakeout where we knew the bird was likely to appear.
Once we arrived, the birds were calling, but the rain made it difficult to locate them. After a few minutes of searching, we finally got excellent views of one of the males performing beautifully on a bare branch not far from the road. We spent some time observing it closely, knowing this was our only chance to see it during the tour.
Later, we moved to the upper part of the road to search for the Araucaria Tit-Spinetail, a species that is very local to this park. Here, we also found White-crested Tyrannulet, Blue-billed Black-Tyrant, Bran-colored Flycatcher, Rufous-collared Sparrow, and other common species.
On our way back, we searched for the Brown-breasted Bamboo-Tyrant, but we only heard it. However, we had good views of Scaled Woodcreeper, Diademed Tanager, Greenish Tyrannulet, more Buff-throated Warbling Finches, and great looks at the Sharp-billed Treehunter.
Next, we continued our search for the Black-capped Piprites, a highly sought-after species. Despite the rain, we were able to get views of this rare and local bird. After this, we decided to return, but not before making a short stop at the place known as “Snipe Valley.”
At Snipe Valley, we saw Masked Water-Tyrant, Shiny Cowbird, White-rumped Swallow, and Rufous Hornero. Our main target, the Tawny-headed Swallow, was found in the grass fields near the road. Additionally, we saw Campo Flicker, Toco Toucan, Cobalt-rumped Parrotlet, Yellow-rumped Marsbird, and Firewood Gatherer.
On our way back to the lodge, we observed the usual hummingbirds and tanagers at the feeders, but we also saw the uncommon Olive-green Tanager and Green-headed Tanager. The road and trails provided views of White-eyed Parakeets, a Blue-winged Macaw near the lodge, a Slaty-breasted Wood-Rail crossing the road, Long-tailed Tyrants, Streaked Flycatchers, Cliff Flycatchers, and more Green-headed Tanagers.

It was a travel day, especially in the morning, but we managed to do a bit of birding along the road from Hotel do Ype towards the town of Itatiaia. We encountered some regular and common species such as Saffron Finches, Blue-and-White Swallows, Cliff Flycatchers, Dusky-legged Guans, and Rufous-collared Sparrows. We also had our best views of Olive-green Tanagers, which are sometimes common here, but not this time.
Along the road, we saw Maroon-bellied Parakeets, heard Sibilant Sirystes calling from the canopy, and observed Green-headed Tanagers mixed with Blue Dacnis, Pallid Spinetails, and Ruby-crowned Tanagers. A couple of hundred meters further down, we heard the first response of Half-collared Sparrow, but unfortunately, we couldn’t find it. Later, we heard the inconspicuous Fork-tailed Tody-Tyrant. With some extra effort, we managed to get great views of it in the bamboo stands.
Not far from there, we had spectacular views of the Slaty Bristlefront. After some effort, it stayed in the open for a few seconds, allowing us to appreciate this incredible bird. Other species we saw in Itatiaia before departing included Rufous-bellied Thrush, Plain Antvireo, Bananaquit, Streak-capped Antwren, and Blue Manakin. We then drove for nearly three hours to our next destination near Angra dos Reis to look for Black-hooded Antwren.
At the stakeout, we left the vehicle and walked towards the bird’s territory. The day was very sunny and hot, and it was almost noon when we arrived—definitely not the best time to look for this species. However, with persistence, we eventually found a responding individual. We tried several times but had difficulty seeing it, as it moved back and forth between the undergrowth and even crossed the road without us noticing. We gave it a few minutes of space, during which we saw a pair of Brazilian Tanagers, Long-tailed Tyrants, and a Buffy-fronted Seedeater, along with Squirrel Cuckoo, Southern Rough-winged Swallow, and Ruby-crowned Tanager.
When we returned to the spot, the male we had been trying to see earlier was already on the opposite side of the road. We tried several times, but not everyone was able to see it. Unexpectedly, another individual began calling from the other side of the road, and we immediately moved to try and see it. This time, we had great success as the bird came out into less dense vegetation and stayed for several seconds, allowing us all to get good views.
Afterward, we continued our journey to Ubatuba for the next two nights. In the village, while having lunch, we saw Neotropic Cormorants, Kelp Gulls, and Magnificent Frigatebirds. We had a great buffet lunch and then headed to our hotel to check in. Our afternoon program was in the town of Folha Seca.
Once there, we focused on the hummingbirds that visit the feeders, which are known to be very active and attract some specialties like Brazilian Ruby and Festive Coquette. We spent a good amount of time at this wonderful location, where we also observed other species, including Black-throated Mango, the common White-chinned Sapphire, many Violet-capped Woodnymphs, White-vented Violetears, a single Sombre Hummingbird, many Versicolored Emeralds, Saw-billed Hermit, and a brief view of a Reddish Hermit, which didn’t visit the feeders but was seen on nearby flowers.
When the rain stopped, we decided to birdwatch along the main road, which is surrounded by forests and crossed by small rivers. We didn’t see many species, but we did observe a few, including Red-rumped Caciques, Riverbank Warblers, and Blue Dacnis. The forest was very quiet after the rain, so we returned to the feeders for one last look. Other species we saw in the afternoon included Crested Oropendolas, Chestnut-bellied Euphonias, Green-winged Saltators, and Red-necked Tanagers, which came down to the feeders. It was time to leave after that.

The day began with a visit to Fazenda Angelim in Ubatuba, where one of our main targets was the Buff-throated Purpletuff. As soon as we arrived, we heard a Striped Cuckoo singing from far away. Once we entered the main entrance trail, we encountered a mixed flock that included Plain Antvireo, Chivi Vireo, Streak-capped Antwren, Scale Antbird, and White-winged Becard. After some effort, we also saw Trilling Gnatwren, Chestnut-crowned Becard, and a couple of the more sought-after species, Salvadori’s Antwren and Unicolored Antwren, which were together in the same mixed flock.
It wasn’t long before we heard the call of the Purpletuff, so we dedicated some time to locating this species. We tried repeatedly, but the bird was quite far away, and we didn’t have the best position at that time to find it. The individual eluded us, and we couldn’t locate it. We decided to return later to continue searching. Further along the trail, we saw a White-bearded Manakin, Crested Becard, Yellow-legged Thrush, Red-rumped Cacique, Red-crowned Ant-Tanager, and, with some effort, saw Scaled Antbird again.
Then, we heard the skulking Spotted Bamboo-Wren singing from inside a dense bamboo stand. This species is known to be extremely difficult to observe, so we had to put in extra effort to get even a short glimpse as it crossed the dense bamboo a couple of times. After the experience with the Spotted Bamboo-Wren, we continued along the trail and heard Gray-hooded Attila singing. We called it, and it quickly appeared, giving us very good views of this species. We also heard a pair of Gray-headed Elaenias at this location and saw them as well.
As we were leaving the site, another species for the day appeared: a male Spot-billed Toucanet, which was eating fruit from a small tree at the edge of the garden. It was very close but surrounded by dense vegetation, making it difficult to photograph.
Further along the trail, we observed a Sepia-capped Flycatcher, Plain-winged Woodcreeper, White-eyed Parakeet, Plain Antvireo, Streaked Flycatcher, Olivaceous Woodcreeper, Unicolored Antwren, and Gray-hooded Flycatcher, among others. After finishing our time here, we decided to leave the trail and return to continue searching for the Buff-throated Purpletuff.
After a few more minutes at the spot, we heard the Purpletuff again. This time, it was deep in the same territory as earlier. It moved a couple of times, but this time, we were able to see it fly across an open area above the trail. Although it didn’t perch nearby, we eventually got one of the birds (we think there were two) to perch a bit closer. It was challenging to see clearly as they are canopy species, but it kept moving between the nearby canopy, and after some patience, we finally got better views of this Brazilian endemic.
Once we had seen the Purpletuff, it was time to return to Ubatuba for lunch. In the village, we saw Neotropic Cormorants, Magnificent Frigatebirds, Kelp Gulls, and Brown Boobies. In the afternoon, we visited another area a few minutes from Ubatuba, known as the “Casa Farinha” road. The part we explored near the forest was very quiet, and it began to rain lightly.
We then spent more time in the open areas and wetlands along the main entrance, where we saw many Brazilian Tanagers, Double-collared Seedeaters, Red-rumped Caciques, Roadside Hawks, Long-billed Wrens, Yellow-fronted Woodpeckers, and others. When it started to rain again, we saw a new species for the trip: the Black-throated Grosbeak. It was quite active in the bushes by the wetland. As it was getting late and the rain was increasing, we decided to return to Ubatuba.

With another day of travel ahead of us but full of energy we started the day birding a new part of the city. We explored a very nice path through Araucaria forests, and the weather was much more stable this morning as well. One of the first species to be seen was an Aplomado Falcon, we also saw some Picazuro Pigeon, Surucua Trogon, Rufous-thighed Kite, Red-breasted Toucan, Maroon-bellied Parakeet, Rufous Hornero and others. A little further down the road we saw Crested Caracara, White-crested Tyrannulet, Rufous-capped Spinetail, we heard another Brown-breasted Bamboo-Tyrant but we couldn’t see it. Also, in that area we saw a young male Crested Becard but the best was yet to come, a pair of White-throated Woodcreepers calling near the road, which immediately caught our interest.
Actually, it wasn’t that difficult to see this excellent woodcreeper, which gave us some spectacular views, and one of them started eating what looked like a katydid very close to us. But, at that very moment another very important species appeared in the area, the magnificent Robust Woodpecker! The incredible thing happened, at that precise moment, while we were finishing watching the woodcreeper and the woodpecker was still there, a beautiful male Green-crowned Plovercrest appeared, landed in front of us and stayed there for several minutes! This was hard to believe, having three such special species in such a short time.
On the way back to our vehicle we found more species such as Blue-and-White Swallow, Southern House Wren, another Rufous-capped Spinetail, Rufous-bellied Thrush and a pair of Scalloped Woodcreeper at what seemed to be the entrance to their nest. Well, it was time to go to another place before leaving this beautiful town. The last part of the morning was spent looking for the Pileated Parrot. On one of the paths, we went we saw Red-breasted Toucans, Plain Parakeet, Swallow-tailed Kites and a nesting Yellow-olive Flatbill, there we also heard Rufous-tailed Antthrush. At the end of the morning, we had some Pileated Parrots flying overhead, very high and not landing close. We stayed in place trying to call them but we didn’t get to see them the way we wanted, luckily, we saw others when we went to Intervales. Basically, the morning was already over and it was time to continue the trip to the next town, Conceicao dos Ouros for one night as well.
Arriving at the village in the afternoon, the 4×4 jeeps were already waiting for us. The adventure began and we set out in search of the targets. One of the first new species to be seen was the noisy Curl-crested Jay followed by a Rufous-thighed Hawk that had a nest nearby. We continued in the Jeeps and crossed several rural and open areas until we made another stop at a “fazenda” or “ranch” that had a corral and some fairly large gardens where we saw many species that were congregated around the corral such as Shiny Cowbirds, the first Narrow-billed Woodcreeper was seen here, Guira Cuckoo, Saffron Finches, the endemic Red-cowled Cardinal, Chopi Blackbird, a family of Great Horned Owls were hiding in the big trees near the house, few Buff-necked Ibis, Social Flycatcher, a solitary White-throated Kingbird, Eared Doves, Picazuro Pigeons and Rufous-browed Peppershrike.
After the fazenda, and at the next stop on the way we saw Lesser Yellow-headed Vulture, Crested Caracaras, White Woodpecker, Black Vulture, Yellow-headed Caracara and a small group of Golden-capped Parakeet, a brazilian endemic. Further along the path we had the surprise of seeing a pair of Blackish Rails up close, in a marsh near the road. Further along the path we had the surprise of seeing a pair of Blackish Rails up close, in a marsh near the town.

Today, we had only a few minutes to bird the lodge grounds before beginning our journey to the coastal city of Peruíbe. Some of the first birds we saw included the abundant Saffron Finches, Rufous Hornero, White-eyed Parakeet, and Tropical Kingbird. Other species observed during this time included a distant Toco Toucan, Buff-necked Ibis flying over the lodge, flocks of Hooded Siskins, Neotropic Cormorants (our first of the trip), Brown-chested and Gray-breasted Martins, Crested Caracara, a nice pair of Narrow-billed Woodcreepers, Yellow-chevroned Parakeets, and two new species for the trip: Grassland Yellow-Finch and Lined Seedeaters.
We then headed toward the coastal city of Santos. We didn’t have time for birding along the way, but upon arrival south of Santos, at Peruíbe, we encountered our first species for the afternoon, including Magnificent Frigatebird, Rufous-bellied Thrush, and Palm Tanagers. One of our main targets for the afternoon was the Black-backed Tanager, which we only caught a brief glimpse of on the first attempt. Shortly after, we tried for Bicolored Conebill in the mangrove forest, where we were rewarded with excellent, close-up views of this beautiful bird.
The clearing near the mangrove forest gave us sightings of Glittering-throated Emerald, Violet-capped Woodnymph, Black Jacobin, Sayaca Tanager, Bananaquit, and the stunning Blue Dacnis. After a while, we tried again for the Black-backed Tanager, but only got quick and poor views. From there, we moved to another area to search for the next targets. While driving along the beach, we saw Kelp Gull, Semipalmated Sandpipers, American Golden-Plovers, and the showy American Oystercatcher.
Not far from there, we spotted a Burrowing Owl by the beach, and of course, we took pictures. The forest edge near the mangrove forest was our final destination for the evening, where our main target was the local Red-tailed Amazon. After a few minutes, we saw a Hook-billed Kite soaring over the area. We also observed Crested Becard, Black-tailed Tityra, more Blue Dacnis, and near the mangrove forest, we saw an Azure Jay, which was alarming at our presence. To finish the day, we saw the first parrot fly over us, but unfortunately, we missed good looks at it. While waiting for more parrots, we also saw Flame-crested Tanager, Creamy-bellied Thrush, a nice Blond-crested Woodpecker, Short-crested Flycatcher, and we heard a Ferruginous Pygmy Owl. Luckily, another pair of Red-tailed Amazons appeared quietly and perched in a tree in front of us, allowing us great views for more than ten minutes. We were also able to take some wonderful photos of them—simply spectacular views of an increasingly rare parrot.

One of our first targets this morning was the Mangrove Rail. On our way to the mangrove forest, we stopped for a few minutes along the road to observe a small river that crosses the town. We saw Neotropic Cormorants, Spotted Sandpipers, a single Cocoi Heron, a few Black-crowned Night Herons, Kelp Gulls, and Yellow-crowned Night-Herons for our trip list. After that, we stopped at some small mangroves near the road, and after a few minutes of searching, we were lucky enough to see the first Mangrove Rail walking patiently along the riverbank. Five minutes later, we spotted another individual in the same area, plus one more singing on the other side of the mangrove, for a total of three birds cooperating very well for us.
From there, we headed to another area of Peruíbe with much larger trees. Once there, we called for some species, but without success. Later, we moved down the hill and found a Rufous-thighed Kite perched for a long time. We also saw Brazilian Tanager and Bananaquit. To finish the morning, we moved to another location near town, where we saw the exquisite Squamate Antbird. A few minutes later, we saw the highly sought-after Buff-necked Puffbird, which allowed us to have great views for more than ten minutes, even giving us the opportunity to take some good photos of the bird.
In the afternoon, we spent most of the time driving toward Intervales. We made a short stop a few kilometers before the park, where we observed a Short-tailed Nighthawk. At the lodge, we tried to find some owls, but we only heard the local Black-capped Screech Owl and Pauraque, and we finished our day there.

One of the most anticipated locations of the trip had finally arrived. On a very sunny morning, birds were calling constantly, but it wasn’t until almost the end of the morning when we saw the first Rufous-tailed Attila, accompanied by the spectacular Giant Antshrike and distant views of a male Bare-throated Bellbird. Our trail proved to be very productive, with sightings of São Paulo Bristle-Tyrant, Mottle-cheeked Tyrannulet, Spot-backed Antshrike, Oustalet’s Tyrannulet, Swallow-tailed Kite, and Olivaceous Woodcreeper. Along the same trail, we also spotted White-throated Spadebill and a wonderful Rufous-capped Antshrike that cooperated beautifully, giving us excellent views.
Not satisfied with just the Antshrike, we stumbled upon an active nest of the Variegated Antpitta. One adult was sitting on the nest, and we were fortunate to get terrific views of this special species. On our way back to the vehicle, we added a noisy White-browed Foliage-Gleaner, a shy Rufous-breasted Leaftosser, more Oustalet’s Tyrannulets, Rufous-tailed Attila, Ochre-collared Piculet, and Green-chinned Euphonia to our list.
We then got into the van and headed toward a known location for Green-crowned Plovercrest. The birds were present, and one single individual came into the open and perched for a while. It was amazing, and we were able to take numerous photos of this beautiful bird.
Back at the lodge, we did a short exploration behind the main building area, where we had heard about a nest of the uncommon Red-ruffed Fruitcrow. We waited for a while until one bird appeared, but it was very shy and quickly left. While we waited for it to return, we saw Swainson’s Flycatcher, White-tipped Dove, and Sayaca Tanagers. A few minutes later, the adult bird returned and decided to stay longer, allowing us to enjoy great views. However, it didn’t stay too long before returning to the nest, but fortunately, we saw it again the following day.
The lunch break was accompanied by heavy rain, which lasted about two hours. Luckily, we were able to head out again after the rain had stopped and continued exploring the lodge grounds. We found a flowering tree with many Black Jacobins, a couple of Versicolored Emeralds, and Violet-capped Woodnymphs. Once we realized the rain had cleared, we moved on to our next birding spot, Lejano das Pedras, where we were lucky enough to see the rare Pileated Parrot flying overhead. We also observed White-collared Swifts and heard Bare-throated Bellbirds calling in the distance.
A short walk from there led us to hear a Gray-bellied Spinetail. We tried to see it, but the rain had made it difficult. Although the rain had lightened, it was enough to make us decide to leave. A few minutes after we returned to the path, a Blue-bellied Parrot flew quickly above us and disappeared into the mist. Fortunately, we managed to bring it back and enjoyed incredible views of this elusive species. What a spectacular way to end the birding day!

The day began with a short drive in a 4×4 vehicle to access another birding area of the reserve. Some of our main targets for the day were the Saffron Toucanet, which we had missed at Itatiaia National Park due to heavy rain.
Our visit to Carmo Road was aimed at finding rare, deep-forest species and quality birds. The road trail did not disappoint, with sightings of Rufous-crowned Greenlet, Oustalet’s Tyrannulet, Euler’s Flycatcher, Ocellated Piculet, and Black-goggled Tanager. After just a few minutes on this trail, we encountered one of the day’s highlights—the rare White-bearded Antshrike, a bamboo specialist. We worked hard to get decent views, managing to see it at least three times. Other birds in the nearby mixed flock included Rufous-headed Tanager, Plain Antvireo, Olivaceous Woodcreeper, Sepia-capped Flycatcher, and a pair of Brown Tanagers in the canopy. Shortly after this flock, we heard the Antshrike once again, and it finally gave us phenomenal views.
As we continued along the trail, we spotted White-collared Foliage-Gleaner, the shy Tufted Antshrike, Plain Antvireo, Lesser Woodcreeper, and a nesting Surucua Trogon. Continuing into more pristine forest areas of Intervales, we tried for the Rufous-breasted Leaftosser, which performed very well for us. By mid-morning, we had already added Bay-ringed Tyrannulet, Atlantic Black-throated Trogon, Golden-crowned Warbler, and Sooty Grassquit to our list. A little further down the hill, we finally found the rare Black-fronted Piping-Guan, which was out in the open, perched in a Cecropia tree drying its wings. The walk down the hill also rewarded us with our first Saffron Toucanet of the tour.
Other birds seen along Carmo Road that day included Plain Antvireo, Rufous-capped Motmot, Ferruginous Antbird, Ruby-crowned Tanager, and Red-necked Tanager.
After lunch, we moved on to a new trail for us, which we had heard was very active earlier in the morning. Our target here was the Atlantic Royal Flycatcher. The road leading to the trail was relatively quiet, with only a few Blue and White Swallows and a Rufous-browed Peppershrike. However, as we entered the trail, the activity was dead. At the nest site, we decided to wait for any sign of activity. After some time, we were finally rewarded with sightings of both the male and female Atlantic Royal Flycatcher perched on a branch right above the stream where they were building the nest.
On our way back to the access road for Intervales, we tried for White-breasted Tapaculo, but only heard it. We also tried for the elusive Half-collared Sparrow, but only got a brief glimpse of it. We ended the day by spotting a Planalto Woodcreeper. As evening approached, we staked out for Rusty-barred Owl. At first, we heard a Long-tufted Screech-Owl, but it was not cooperating. We moved to the owl’s usual location, and after some waiting, we finally ended a great day with fantastic views of the superb Rusty-barred Owl.

Birding time was limited this morning, but we decided to return to try for the Half-collared Sparrow. Shortly after breakfast, we headed to the location we visited the previous day, and it took us no more than ten minutes to get excellent views of this special bird. In fact, this was our last opportunity to see this species for the remainder of the tour.
We spent most of the morning driving toward the city of Curitiba. During the drive, we made regular rest stops where we saw common species like Blue and White Swallows, Rufous Hornero, Southern Rough-winged Swallow, Crested Caracara, Chalk-browed Mockingbird, and Tropical Kingbirds throughout the journey.
Upon arriving in Curitiba, we checked in and immediately headed out to our first birding location. There, we saw the abundant Picazuro Pigeon, Black Vultures, and Double-collared Seedeaters. However, the main target was the local Glaucous-blue Grosbeak, which, after some effort, appeared and gave us excellent views for a long time! Afterward, we ventured closer to the marsh area to search for Marsh Tapaculo, which we managed to catch a glimpse of as it crossed a small open area between the grasses.
At the end of the afternoon, we went to a known spot to wait for one of the most anticipated species of the day: the Sickle-winged Nightjar. The walk through the wetland was quite challenging, but we reached a slightly higher area, hoping one of the nightjars would appear at twilight. While waiting, we saw other species such as Great Egret, Brazilian Teal, Southern Yellowthroat, and Roseate Spoonbill. We also heard a Common Potoo and Brown Tinamou calling from the nearby forest.
Our target bird was slow to arrive, but unexpectedly, one flew very low and passed by us several times before finally landing not far away. This gave us the chance to approach and take some photographs of this special bird. After a few minutes, another individual appeared and also landed nearby, allowing us to take more photos while it sat on the ground. This one stayed there for more than five minutes! It was a perfect way to end our day.

This day was mostly a traveling morning with a couple of stops along the route to target two species: the Canebrake Groundcreeper and the range-restricted Marsh Antwren. First, we left Curitiba and headed toward a place called Itapoa. We made a strategic stop to search for one of our targets, the Canebrake Groundcreeper. While looking for the Groundcreeper, we encountered several other species, including the common Olivaceous Elaenia, Diademed Tanager, Thick-billed Saltator, Sayaca Tanager, Hooded Siskin, Olive Spinetail, Great Kiskadee, Crested Caracara, Rufous Hornero, and a Green Kingfisher. The Groundcreeper was spotted inside the dense bamboo near the main road. After that, we arrived at a known bird territory, and within moments, we heard one calling from inside the bamboo. After a short wait, we finally got good views of it moving through the thick vegetation. It was challenging to photograph, but we managed some decent looks. At that point, it was time to continue on toward Itapoa.
A couple of hours later, we arrived at the wetland where we would search for the next target, the Marsh Antwren. Despite the bright sun, local knowledge assured us that the weather wouldn’t affect our plan. Within 15 minutes, we heard a response from one of the antwrens. A male emerged from the tall grass and moved through the vegetation near the road, offering us great views. Another target successfully ticked off the list, and it was time to find a place for lunch.
By mid-afternoon, we arrived at our hotel in Joinville. After a short rest, we headed out for more birding. The first target was the uncommon and threatened Restinga Tyrannulet, a coastal scrub and woodland species. At the site, we encountered some difficulty due to roadwork, with trucks constantly passing by, creating a lot of dust. Nevertheless, we persisted and walked through the bird’s habitat, and after a few minutes, we were rewarded with fantastic views of yet another Brazilian endemic!
After the tyrannulet, our next target was the Scaled Chachalaca. We drove for a few minutes to reach a secluded area within the city, a mix of forest edge, houses, and gardens, which is the preferred habitat of most Chachalacas. We spotted two birds, although we suspect there were three. Regardless, we had another endemic on the list!
Next, we moved on to an area with more forest to look for the tiny Kaempfer Tody Tyrant. Upon arriving at its territory, we quickly heard a response from an individual nearby. As expected, it took some patience to track the bird in the dense vegetation, but soon enough, we saw two of them moving at low and medium altitudes. Another successful sighting!
We decided to explore this habitat a bit more and continued down the trail. We spotted a calm Rufous-thighed Kite perched on a dry branch and heard several Blue Manakins calling. We also found a pair of Olive-green Tanagers eating a katydid. To wrap up this portion of the day, we saw a White-throated Spadebill.
As the day neared its end, we visited a mangrove area where we encountered several Yellow-crowned Night-Herons, Great Egrets, Black-crowned Night-Herons, Bare-faced Ibis, and large flocks of Scarlet Ibis flying toward their roosting site for the night.

This was a complicated day due to the rain, and it also involved quite a long drive. We left early after breakfast, making several stops along the way to rest and stretch. During these stops, we observed the usual common species, such as Gray-breasted Martins, many Saffron Finches, Great Kiskadees, Tropical Kingbirds, Chalk-browed Mockingbirds, and other species typical of open areas.
Upon arriving at the lodge in the afternoon, we had a few minutes to birdwatch around the cabins. We knew this area was a good spot for several key species of the trip, including the Chestnut-backed Tanager. Other species observed around the lodge included Red-legged Seriemas, Azure Jays, Araucaria Tit-Spinetails, Blue-and-white Swallows, and, importantly, Long-tailed Cinclodes.
As night fell, we focused on another very important target species: the Long-tufted Screech-Owl. We prepared ourselves to start the search as the evening began. Before it got completely dark, a Pampas Fox appeared near the lodge, offering us a bit of entertainment while we waited.
When we began searching for the Screech-Owl, it didn’t take long for it to respond. Everything seemed normal, but the owl remained in the same spot and didn’t move. We decided to get a little closer to see what was happening. The bird shifted slightly, so we began searching with flashlights. Finding it wasn’t easy, and the hardest part was keeping it in one spot. After a little while, we managed to get a couple of good views, but they were brief and too fast to photograph. At that point, we decided it was enough and headed back to our rooms.

We started the day early in front of the restaurant, where we had our first sighting of Red Tanager on the trip. Shortly after, other species appeared, including Blue-and-white Swallows, Saffron Finches, and Rufous-collared Sparrows. One new bird for the trip was the Gray-throated Warbling, and while observing it, we heard a Planalto Tapaculo singing nearby. We immediately tried to spot it, and after a short playback, the bird was very cooperative, giving us excellent views, and even showed us carrying nesting material.
There was also a Gray-bellied Spinetail in the area, but unfortunately, we didn’t have the same luck with it as we did with the Tapaculo; we only saw a couple of fleeting glimpses. Further down the entrance road, we observed the Araucaria Tit-Spinetail again, a bird we had seen earlier in the tour. We also found one of the key targets of the day, the lovely Mottled Piculet, which appeared very close to the road, allowing us great views.
Another bird we sought this morning was the Striolated Tit-Spinetail. While walking through the lodge’s garden, looking for it, we encountered several other species, including Campo Flicker, Chestnut-backed Tanager, Southern Beardless Tyrannulet, Swainson’s Flycatcher, Chimango Caracara, and White-spotted Woodpecker. By the lagoon, we finally located a pair of Striolated Tit-Spinetails.
After breakfast, we set off to the marsh areas near Urupema. Upon arrival, we were greeted by Chalk-browed Mockingbird, Crested Black Tyrant, and Pampa Finches. We also heard Red-winged Tinamou from the upper part of the road. As we continued through the marsh, we observed Black and Rufous Warbling-Finch, Black and White Monjita, American Kestrel, and a flock of Saffron-cowled Blackbirds. We also saw Long-tailed Reed-Tyrant, Fork-tailed Flycatcher, Gray Monjita, Yellow-rumped Marshbird, Pampa Finch, and had excellent looks at the local Freckle-breasted Thornbird.
We then left the marsh and visited a road near town, located at a higher elevation. There, we heard Rufous-tailed Antthrush, Olivaceous Elaenia, and Sharp-tailed Streamcreeper, which we had made a special effort to find after only spotting it early in the tour. Fortunately, the bird cooperated well, and we all had excellent views. Other species at the site included Blue-billed Black-Tyrant, Black Vultures, Chivi Vireo, Turkey Vulture, Fawn-breasted Tanager, and Black Hawk-Eagle soaring above us. Just as bird activity was winding down, we had one last raptor sighting—a Rufous-thighed Kite.
In the afternoon, birding was quieter, but we visited another marsh near town. Here, we found Gray Monjita, Yellow-browed Tyrant, White-rumped Swallow, and once again, heard the distant calls of Red-winged Tinamou. Other species included Pampa Finch with Long-tailed Reed-Finch, Hooded Siskin, Roadside Hawk, Chopi Blackbirds, Grassland Yellow-Finch, and close-up views of Firewood Gatherer to cap off our visit.
At the end of the day, we headed to “Las Torres Road,” hoping to find some raptors. Upon arrival, we observed Sick’s Swifts, Crested Caracara, and three White-tailed Hawks that flew overhead, offering a nice way to conclude a great birding day.

After a quick breakfast, we left the lodge early, as a long day lay ahead with several important stops along the way. A few hours into the drive, we entered a dirt road near the Palanquinho region. Our first stop was at the bridge over the Rio Antas, where we saw some common birds like Neotropic Cormorant, Black Vulture, and a juvenile Crested Becard. Although we heard a White-winged Becard, bird activity was relatively quiet, so we continued on our journey.
As we drove on, we arrived at one of the day’s most crucial stops—the territory of the Tropeiro Seedeater. The sun was high, and it was quite hot, but as soon as we stepped out of the car, we heard one singing! That was great news for us, and we quickly made our way to the bird’s territory. It wasn’t long before we spotted an adult Tropeiro Seedeater, singing and engaged in a territorial dispute with a Sayaca Tanager. We never figured out what exactly was going on between them, but it didn’t matter. The Tropeiro Seedeater put on a fantastic show, providing excellent views, and even flew toward us and perched for a considerable time. It was better than I had hoped for, and with that target achieved, we moved on.
After about an hour’s drive, we reached a wetland, known for being the territory of the local Tawny-bellied Seedeater. We got out of the car and began searching the dense vegetation nearby. The bird activity was minimal, with only a Spotted Nothura calling and a few swallows flying by. After some careful searching, we spotted an adult Tawny-bellied Seedeater perched on a bush, its plumage in perfect condition. We had great views through the telescope, but after a few minutes, the bird disappeared back into the vegetation. With another target successfully ticked off, we continued our journey to São Francisco de Paula.
Before checking into our hotel, we made a quick stop to search for a new species for the trip—the Straight-billed Reedhunter. The weather had shifted by then, with fog and light rain moving in. We had a brief window before the weather worsened, so we searched two wetlands for the reedhunter. Though we didn’t find it that day, we were able to see it the following morning in better conditions.
Upon arrival at our hotel, we checked in and headed straight to the location known for Red-spectacled Parrots. While searching for them, we saw several familiar species in the area, such as Picazuro Pigeon, Bare-faced Ibis, and Crested Caracara. A pleasant surprise came when we spotted a White Monjita perched on the wires near a eucalyptus plantation. Soon enough, the first Red-spectacled Parrots began to arrive. Over the next few minutes, around 30 to 35 individuals gathered in the area, providing an incredible display. It was a fantastic way to end the day.

We began the day by walking the hotel trail, but the weather was far from ideal—overcast skies with high chances of rain. Bird activity was quite low, and we tried for the Blacksmith Thrush, though it remained elusive. We pressed on along the trail, which was quiet, until about 30 minutes in, when we spotted a vibrant male Chestnut-headed Tanager. The bird was active and singing by the side of the trail, confirming that this spot is one of the best for seeing this species. While watching the tanager, we also heard the distant song of a very important species for the trip—the spectacular Speckled-breasted Antpitta.
We decided to focus on finding the antpitta and began to look for the best spot. Along the way, we also heard a Variegated Antpitta in the distance, but this one wasn’t our priority as we had already seen it in a nest at Intervales State Park. After some persistence, we finally spotted the Speckled-breasted Antpitta, which had been staying in one spot. With a bit of patience, everyone managed to get good views of this Southern Brazilian specialty.
In the afternoon, we continued birding the wetlands of the region, where we found most of the species from the previous day. Highlights included the Yellow-rumped Marsbird and the cooperative Black-bellied Seedeater, which perched by the side of the road, offering us exceptional views. We also saw the Straight-billed Reedhunter again, as well as Saffron-cowled Blackbirds, many Sick’s Swifts flying alongside White-collared Swifts, Rufous Hornbirds, and Chalk-browed Mockingbirds. Additionally, we encountered Grayish Baywing and some first-time sightings, such as Red-crested Cardinal and Monk Parakeets. On our way back to the hotel, we spotted a few Yellow-billed Pintails.
Later in the afternoon, we visited São Francisco de Paula Park, where the weather forecast proved accurate—heavy rain, some wind, and thick fog. Despite the challenging conditions, we made the best of it after a very successful morning. A short way into the trail, we heard the calls of Blue Manakins and the persistent song of a Short-tailed Antthrush from the dense vegetation. We tried to track it down, but unfortunately, the antthrush did not approach and instead flew deeper into the forest. With no further opportunities, we decided to head back to town, bringing an end to another eventful day.

The weather forecast proved accurate this morning, with rain and some wind. By this point in the trip, we didn’t have any key species left to target, and with travel plans ahead, we were preparing to head to Duque de Caxias airport. However, with a brief lull in the weather, some of us managed to return to the trail for one last opportunity to bird and photograph.
One highlight was the beautiful Chestnut-backed Tanager, which appeared in a bush very close to the hotel. The bird was quite active, constantly moving back and forth, offering those who had stayed behind a chance to see it for the first time. Despite the bad weather, the trail still delivered some great moments. We were fortunate to spot the rare Chestnut-headed Tanager once again, in the same spot as the previous day. This gave us another chance to enjoy excellent views of this special species.
By mid-morning, it was time to leave for the airport, marking the end of our successful trip to the Southeast of Brazil.

SYSTEMATIC LIST OF SPECIES RECORDED DURING THE TOUR

Species marked with the diamond symbol (◊) are either endemic to the country or local region or considered ‘special’ birds for some other reason (e.g., it is only seen on one or two Birdquest tours; it is difficult to see across all or most of its range; the local form is endemic or restricted-range and may in future be treated as a full species).

The species names and taxonomy used in the bird list follows Gill, F., Donsker, D., & Rasmussen, P.(Eds). 2024. IOC World Bird List (v14.1).

Where the subspecies seen is/are known, these are often given in parentheses at the end of the species comment.

BIRDS
Solitary Tinamou ◊ Tinamus solitarius
Little Tinamou Crypturellus soui
Brown Tinamou Crypturellus obsoletus
Yellow-legged Tinamou ◊ Crypturellus noctivagus Heard only.
Variegated Tinamou Crypturellus variegatus Heard only.
Red-winged Tinamou Rhynchotus rufescens Heard only.
Spotted Nothura Nothura maculosa Heard only.
White-faced Whistling Duck Dendrocygna viduata
Black-bellied Whistling Duck Dendrocygna autumnalis
Muscovy Duck Cairina moschata
Brazilian Teal Amazonetta brasiliensis
Yellow-billed Pintail Anas georgica
East Brazilian Chachalaca ◊ Ortalis araucuan Endemic.
Scaled Chachalaca ◊ Ortalis squamata Endemic.
Rusty-margined Guan ◊ Penelope superciliaris
Dusky-legged Guan ◊ Penelope obscura
Black-fronted Piping Guan ◊ Pipile jacutinga
Red-billed Curassow ◊ Crax blumenbachii Endemic.
Spot-winged Wood Quail ◊ Odontophorus capueira
Short-tailed Nighthawk Lurocalis semitorquatus
Pygmy Nightjar ◊ Nyctipolus hirundinaceus Endemic.
Pauraque Nyctidromus albicollis
Little Nightjar Setopagis parvula
Sickle-winged Nightjar ◊ Eleothreptus anomalus
Long-tailed Potoo Nyctibius aethereus
Common Potoo Nyctibius griseus
White-collared Swift Streptoprocne zonaris
Grey-rumped Swift Chaetura cinereiventris
Sick’s Swift ◊ Chaetura meridionalis
Black Jacobin Florisuga fusca
Saw-billed Hermit ◊ Ramphodon naevius Endemic.
Rufous-breasted Hermit Glaucis hirsutus
Dusky-throated Hermit ◊ Phaethornis squalidus Endemic.
Minute Hermit ◊ Phaethornis idaliae Endemic.
Reddish Hermit Phaethornis ruber
Planalto Hermit Phaethornis pretrei
Scale-throated Hermit ◊ Phaethornis eurynome
White-vented Violetear Colibri serrirostris
Black-throated Mango Anthracothorax nigricollis
Frilled Coquette ◊ Lophornis magnificus Endemic.
Festive Coquette ◊ Lophornis chalybeus
Brazilian Ruby ◊ Heliodoxa rubricauda Endemic.
Amethyst Woodstar Calliphlox amethystina
Glittering-bellied Emerald Chlorostilbon lucidus
Green-crowned Plovercrest ◊ Stephanoxis lalandi Endemic.
Purple-crowned Plovercrest ◊ Stephanoxis loddigesii
Violet-capped Woodnymph Thalurania glaucopis
Swallow-tailed Hummingbird Eupetomena macroura
Sombre Hummingbird ◊ Eupetomena cirrochloris Endemic.
Versicolored Emerald Chrysuronia versicolor
White-throated Hummingbird Leucochloris albicollis
Glittering-throated Emerald Chionomesa fimbriata
Sapphire-spangled Emerald Chionomesa lactea
White-chinned Sapphire Chlorestes cyanus
Blue-chinned Sapphire Chlorestes notata
Guira Cuckoo Guira guira
Greater Ani Crotophaga major
Smooth-billed Ani Crotophaga ani
Striped Cuckoo Tapera naevia Heard only.
Squirrel Cuckoo Piaya cayana
Pearly-breasted Cuckoo Coccyzus euleri
Rock Dove (introduced) Columba livia
Scaled Pigeon Patagioenas speciosa
Picazuro Pigeon Patagioenas picazuro
Pale-vented Pigeon Patagioenas cayennensis
Plumbeous Pigeon Patagioenas plumbea
Scaled Dove Columbina squammata
Ruddy Ground Dove Columbina talpacoti
Picui Ground Dove Columbina picui
Blue Ground Dove Claravis pretiosa
White-tipped Dove Leptotila verreauxi
Grey-fronted Dove Leptotila rufaxilla
Eared Dove Zenaida auriculata
Blackish Rail Pardirallus nigricans
Mangrove Rail Rallus longirostris
Uniform Crake Amaurolimnas concolor Heard only.
Grey-cowled Wood Rail Aramides cajaneus
Slaty-breasted Wood Rail ◊ Aramides saracura
Common Gallinule Gallinula galeata
Rufous-sided Crake Laterallus melanophaius
Red-and-White Crake Rufirallus leucopyrrhus
Ash-Throated Crake Mustelirallus albicollis Heard only.
Purple Gallinule Porphyrio martinica
Least Grebe Tachybaptus dominicus Leader only.
American Oystercatcher Haematopus palliatus
White-backed Stilt Himantopus melanurus
Semipalmated Plover Charadrius semipalmatus
Southern Lapwing Vanellus chilensis
Wattled Jacana Jacana jacana
Giant Snipe Gallinago undulata
Pantanal Snipe Gallinago paraguaiae
Spotted Sandpiper Actitis macularius
Semipalmated Sandpiper Calidris pusilla
White-rumped Sandpiper Calidris fuscicollis
Red Knot Calidris canutus
American Golden-Plover Pluvialis dominica
Kelp Gull Larus dominicanus
Magnificent Frigatebird Fregata magnificens
Brown Booby Sula leucogaster
Anhinga Anhinga anhinga
Neotropic Cormorant Nannopterum brasilianum
Buff-necked Ibis Theristicus caudatus
Green Ibis Mesembrinibis cayennensis
Bare-faced Ibis Phimosus infuscatus
Scarlet Ibis Eudocimus ruber
Roseate Spoonbill Platalea ajaja
Rufescent Tiger Heron Tigrisoma lineatum
Boat-billed Heron Cochlearius cochlearius
Yellow-crowned Night Heron Nyctanassa violacea
Black-crowned Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax
Capped Heron Pilherodius pileatus
Whistling Heron Syrigma sibilatrix
Little Blue Heron Egretta caerulea
Snowy Egret Egretta thula
Striated Heron Butorides striata
Great Egret Ardea alba
Western Cattle Egret Ardea ibis
Cocoi Heron Ardea cocoi
King Vulture Sarcoramphus papa
Black Vulture Coragyps atratus
Turkey Vulture Cathartes aura
Lesser Yellow-headed Vulture Cathartes burrovianus
Hook-billed Kite Chondrohierax uncinatus
Swallow-tailed Kite Elanoides forficatus
Black Hawk-Eagle Spizaetus tyrannus
Double-toothed Kite Harpagus bidentatus
Rufous-thighed Kite ◊ Harpagus diodon
Rufous-thighed Hawk Accipiter erythronemius
Plumbeous Kite Ictinia plumbea
Snail Kite Rostrhamus sociabilis
Savanna Hawk Buteogallus meridionalis
White-necked Hawk ◊ Buteogallus lacernulatus Endemic.
Roadside Hawk Rupornis magnirostris
White-tailed Hawk Geranoaetus albicaudatus
Short-tailed Hawk Buteo brachyurus
Burrowing Owl Athene cunicularia
East Brazilian Pygmy Owl Glaucidium minutissimum
Ferruginous Pygmy Owl Glaucidium brasilianum
Tropical Screech Owl Megascops choliba
Long-tufted Screech Owl ◊ Megascops sanctaecatarinae
Black-capped Screech Owl ◊ Megascops atricapilla Heard only.
Tawny-browed Owl ◊ Pulsatrix koeniswaldiana
Rusty-barred Owl ◊ Strix hylophila
Great-horned Owl Bubo virginianus
Green-backed Trogon Trogon viridis
Surucua Trogon Trogon surrucura
Amazonian Black-throated Trogon Trogon rufus
Collared Trogon Trogon collaris
Amazon Kingfisher Chloroceryle amazona
Green Kingfisher Chloroceryle americana
Ringed Kingfisher Megaceryle torquata
Rufous-capped Motmot ◊ Baryphthengus ruficapillus
Three-toed Jacamar ◊ Jacamaralcyon tridactyla Endemic.
Rufous-tailed Jacamar Galbula ruficauda
Buff-bellied Puffbird ◊ Notharchus swainsoni
White-eared Puffbird Nystalus chacuru
Crescent-chested Puffbird ◊ Malacoptila striata Endemic.
Swallow-winged Puffbird Chelidoptera tenebrosa
Black-necked Aracari Pteroglossus aracari
Saffron Toucanet ◊ Pteroglossus bailloni
Spot-billed Toucanet ◊ Selenidera maculirostris
Red-breasted Toucan ◊ (Green-billed T) Ramphastos dicolorus
Channel-billed Toucan Ramphastos vitellinus
Toco Toucan Ramphastos toco
White-barred Piculet Picumnus cirratus
Ochre-collared Piculet Picumnus temminckii
Mottled Piculet ◊ Picumnus nebulosus
White Woodpecker Melanerpes candidus
Yellow-fronted Woodpecker Melanerpes flavifrons
White-spotted Woodpecker Veniliornis spilogaster
Red-stained Woodpecker Veniliornis affinis
Yellow-eared Woodpecker ◊ Veniliornis maculifrons Endemic.
Yellow-throated Woodpecker ◊ Piculus flavigula
Yellow-browed Woodpecker ◊ Piculus aurulentus
Green-barred Woodpecker Colaptes melanochloros
Campo Flicker Colaptes campestris
Blond-crested Woodpecker ◊ Celeus flavescens
Cream-colored Woodpecker ◊ Celeus [flavus] subflavus
Ringed Woodpecker ◊ Celeus [torquatus] tinnunculus
Lineated Woodpecker Dryocopus lineatus
Robust Woodpecker ◊ Campephilus robustus
Red-legged Seriema Cariama cristata
Crested Caracara Caracara plancus
Yellow-headed Caracara Milvago chimachima
Chimango Caracara Milvago chimango
Laughing Falcon Herpetotheres cachinnans Heard only.
Barred Forest Falcon Micrastur ruficollis Heard only.
American Kestrel Falco sparverius
Aplomado Falcon Falco femoralis
Golden-tailed Parrotlet ◊ Touit surdus Heard only.
Monk Parakeet Myiopsitta monachus
Plain Parakeet ◊ Brotogeris tirica Endemic.
Pileated Parrot ◊ Pionopsitta pileata
Blue-bellied Parrot ◊ Triclaria malachitacea Endemic.
Scaly-headed Parrot Pionus maximiliani
Blue-headed Parrot ◊ Pionus [menstruus] reichenowi Endemic.
Vinaceous-breasted Amazon ◊ Amazona vinacea
Red-spectacled Amazon ◊ Amazona pretrei
Red-browed Amazon ◊ Amazona rhodocorytha Endemic.
Mealy Amazon Amazona farinosa
Red-tailed Amazon ◊ Amazona brasiliensis Endemic.
Orange-winged Amazon Amazona amazonica
Cobalt-rumped Parrotlet Forpus xanthopterygius
Ochre-marked Parakeet ◊ Pyrrhura cruentata Endemic.
Maroon-bellied Parakeet Pyrrhura frontalis
White-eared Parakeet ◊ Pyrrhura leucotis Endemic.
Peach-fronted Parakeet Eupsittula aurea
Golden-capped Parakeet Aratinga auricapillus
Blue-winged Macaw ◊ Primolius maracaná
Red-shoulder Macaw Diopsittaca nobilis
White-eyed Parakeet Psittacara leucophthalmus
Rufous-breasted Leaftosser ◊ Sclerurus scansor
Olivaceous Woodcreeper Sittasomus griseicapillus
Plain-winged Woodcreeper ◊ Dendrocincla turdina
Planalto Woodcreeper ◊ Dendrocolaptes platyrostris
White-throated Woodcreeper ◊ Xiphocolaptes albicollis
Lesser Woodcreeper ◊ Xiphorhynchus fuscus
Buff-throated Woodcreeper Xiphorhynchus guttatus
Black-billed Scythebill ◊ Campylorhamphus falcularius
Narrow-billed Woodcreeper Lepidocolaptes angustirostris
Scaled Woodcreeper ◊ Lepidocolaptes squamatus Endemic.
Scalloped Woodcreeper ◊ Lepidocolaptes falcinellus
Atlantic Plain Xenops Xenops minutus
Streaked Xenops Xenops rutilans
Band-tailed Hornero ◊ Furnarius figulus Endemic.
Rufous Hornero Furnarius rufus
Sharp-tailed Streamcreeper ◊ Lochmias nematura
Long-tailed Cinclodes ◊ Cinclodes pabsti Endemic.
Buff-winged Cinclodes Cinclodes fuscus
White-collared Foliage-gleaner ◊ Anabazenops fuscus Endemic.
Pale-browed Treehunter ◊ Cichlocolaptes leucophrus Endemic.
Sharp-billed Treehunter Heliobletus contaminatus
Black-capped Foliage-gleaner ◊ Philydor atricapillus
White-browed Foliage-gleaner ◊ Anabacerthia amaurotis
Ochre-breasted Foliage-gleaner ◊ Anabacerthia lichtensteini
Buff-browed Foliage-gleaner Syndactyla rufosuperciliata
Buff-fronted Foliage-gleaner Dendroma rufa
Canebrake Groundcreeper ◊ Clibanornis dendrocolaptoides
White-eyed Foliage-gleaner ◊ Automolus leucophthalmus
Striolated Tit-Spinetail ◊ Leptasthenura striolata
Araucaria Tit-Spinetail ◊ Leptasthenura setaria
Rufous-fronted Thornbird Phacellodomus rufifrons
Freckle-breasted Thornbird Phacellodomus striaticollis
Orange-eyed Thornbird ◊ Phacellodomus erythrophthalmus Endemic.
Orange-breasted Thornbird ◊ Phacellodomus ferrugineigula
Firewood-gatherer Anumbius annumbi
Itatiaia Spinetail ◊ Asthenes moreirae Endemic.
Straight-billed Reedhaunter ◊ Limnoctites rectirostris
Olive Spinetail ◊ Cranioleuca obsoleta
Pallid Spinetail ◊ Cranioleuca pallida Endemic
Yellow-chinned Spinetail Certhiaxis cinnamomeus
Grey-bellied Spinetail ◊ Synallaxis cinerascens
Rufous-capped Spinetail ◊ Synallaxis ruficapilla
Spix’s Spinetail Synallaxis spixi
Silvery-flanked Antwren ◊ Myrmotherula luctuosa Endemic.
Salvadori’s Antwren ◊ Myrmotherula minor Endemic.
Unicolored Antwren ◊ Myrmotherula unicolor Endemic.
Streak-capped Antwren ◊ Terenura maculata
Black-hooded Antwren ◊ Formicivora erythronotos Endemic.
Southern White-fringed Antwren Formicivora grisea
Serra Antwren ◊ Formicivora serrana Endemic.
Serra Antwren ◊ (Restinga A) Formicivora [serrana] littoralis Endemic.
Marsh Antwren ◊ Formicivora [acutirostris] acutirostris Endemic.
Star-throated Antwren ◊ Rhopias gularis Endemic.
Rufous-margined Antwren Herpsilochmus rufimarginatus
Spot-breasted Antvireo ◊ Dysithamnus stictothorax Endemic.
Plain Antvireo Dysithamnus mentalis
Rufous-backed Antvireo ◊ Dysithamnus xanthopterus Endemic.
Chestnut-backed Antshrike Thamnophilus palliatus
Sooretama Slaty Antshrike ◊ Thamnophilus ambiguous Endemic.
Variable Antshrike Thamnophilus caerulescens
Rufous-capped Antshrike Thamnophilus ruficapillus
Barred Antshrike Thamnophilus doliatus
White-bearded Antshrike ◊ Biatas nigropectus
Great Antshrike Taraba major
Large-tailed Antshrike ◊ Mackenziaena leachii
Tufted Antshrike ◊ Mackenziaena severa
Spot-backed Antshrike ◊ Hypoedaleus guttatus
Giant Antshrike ◊ Batara cinerea
Ferruginous Antbird ◊ Drymophila ferruginea Endemic.
Bertoni’s Antbird ◊ Drymophila rubricollis
Rufous-tailed Antbird ◊ Drymophila genei Endemic.
Ochre-rumped Antbird ◊ Drymophila ochropyga Endemic.
Dusky-tailed Antbird ◊ Drymophila malura
Scaled Antbird ◊ Drymophila squamata Endemic.
White-bibbed Antbird ◊ Myrmoderus loricatus Endemic.
Squamate Antbird ◊ Myrmoderus squamosus Endemic.
White-shouldered Fire-eye Pyriglena leucoptera
Rufous-capped Antthrush Formicarius colma
Short-tailed Antthrush Chamaeza campanisona Heard only.
Cryptic Antthrush ◊ Chamaeza meruloides Heard only.
Rufous-tailed Antthrush ◊ Chamaeza ruficauda Heard only.
Variegated Antpitta Grallaria varia
Speckle-breasted Antpitta ◊ Cryptopezus nattereri
Rufous Gnateater ◊ Conopophaga lineata
Black-cheeked Gnateater ◊ Conopophaga melanops Endemic.
Spotted Bamboowren ◊ Psilorhamphus guttatus
Slaty Bristlefront ◊ Merulaxis ater Endemic.
White-breasted Tapaculo ◊ Eleoscytalopus indigoticus Heard only.
Marsh Tapaculo ◊ Scytalopus iraiensis Endemic
Planalto Tapaculo ◊ Scytalopus pachecoi
Mouse-colored Tapaculo ◊ Scytalopus speluncae Endemic.
Wing-barred Piprites Piprites chloris
Black-capped Piprites ◊ Piprites pileata
Greenish Tyrannulet ◊ Phyllomyias virescens
Planalto Tyrannulet ◊ Phyllomyias fasciatus
Grey-capped Tyrannulet ◊ Phyllomyias griseocapilla Endemic.
Rough-legged Tyrannulet ◊ Acrochordopus burmeisteri
Grey-headed Elaenia Myiopagis caniceps
Yellow-bellied Elaenia Elaenia flavogaster
Olivaceous Elaenia ◊ Elaenia mesoleuca
Small-headed Elaenia ◊ Elaenia sordida
Southern Beardless Tyrannulet Camptostoma obsoletum
Sooty Tyrannulet Serpophaga nigricans
White-crested Tyrannulet Serpophaga subcristata
Yellow Tyrannulet Capsiempis flaveola
Grey-backed Tachuri ◊ Polystictus superciliaris Endemic.
Sao Paulo Bristle Tyrant ◊ (S P Tyrannulet) Pogonotriccus paulista
Serra do Mar Bristle Tyrant ◊ (S d M Tyrannulet) Pogonotriccus difficilis Endemic.
Mottle-cheeked Tyrannulet Phylloscartes ventralis
Restinga Tyrannulet ◊ Phylloscartes kronei Endemic.
Oustalet’s Tyrannulet ◊ Phylloscartes oustaleti Endemic.
Bay-ringed Tyrannulet ◊ Phylloscartes sylviolus
Grey-hooded Flycatcher ◊ Mionectes rufiventris
Sepia-capped Flycatcher Leptopogon amaurocephalus
Bran-colored Flycatcher Myiophobus fasciatus
Drab-breasted Bamboo Tyrant ◊ Hemitriccus diops
Brown-breasted Bamboo Tyrant ◊ Hemitriccus obsoletus
Eye-ringed Tody-Tyrant ◊ Hemitriccus orbitatus Endemic.
Hangnest Tody-Tyrant ◊ Hemitriccus nidipendulus Endemic.
Kaempfer’s Tody-Tyrant ◊ Hemitriccus kaempferi Endemic.
Fork-tailed Tody-Tyrant ◊ Hemitriccus furcatus Endemic.
Eared Pygmy Tyrant ◊ Myiornis auricularis
Ochre-faced Tody-Flycatcher Poecilotriccus plumbeiceps
Yellow-lored Tody-Flycatcher ◊ Todirostrum poliocephalum
Eastern Olivaceous Flatbill Rhynchocyclus olivaceus
Yellow-olive Flatbill Tolmomyias sulphurescens
Grey-crowned Flatbill ◊ Tolmomyias poliocephalus
Ochre-lored Flatbill Tolmomyias flaviventris
White-throated Spadebill Platyrinchus mystaceus
Cliff Flycatcher Hirundinea ferruginea
Euler’s Flycatcher Lathrotriccus euleri
Southern Tropical Pewee Contopus cinereus
Yellow-browed Tyrant Satrapa icterophrys
Blue-billed Black Tyrant ◊ Knipolegus cyanirostris
Crested Black Tyrant Knipolegus lophotes
Velvety Black Tyrant ◊ Knipolegus nigerrimus
White-rumped Monjita Xolmis velatus
White Monjita Xolmis irupero
Grey Monjita Nengetus cinereus
Streamer-tailed Tyrant ◊ Gubernetes yetapa
Shear-tailed Grey Tyrant ◊ Muscipipra vetula
Masked Water Tyrant Fluvicola nengeta
White-headed Marsh Tyrant Arundinicola leucocephala
Black-and-white Monjita ◊ Heteroxolmis dominicana
Long-tailed Tyrant Colonia colonus
Cattle Tyrant Machetornis rixosa
Piratic Flycatcher Legatus leucophaius
Rusty-margined Flycatcher Myiozetetes cayanensis
Social Flycatcher Myiozetetes similis
Great Kiskadee Pitangus sulphuratus
Three-striped Flycatcher Conopias trivirgatus
Streaked Flycatcher Myiodynastes maculatus
Boat-billed Flycatcher Megarynchus pitangua
Variegated Flycatcher Empidonomus varius
Tropical Kingbird Tyrannus melancholicus
White-throated Kingbird Tyrannus albogularis
Fork-tailed Flycatcher Tyrannus savana
Greyish Mourner Rhytipterna simplex
Sibilant Sirystes (Eastern S) Sirystes sibilator
Dusky-capped Flycatcher Myiarchus tuberculifer
Swainson’s Flycatcher Myiarchus swainsoni
Short-crested Flycatcher Myiarchus ferox
Brown-crested Flycatcher Myiarchus tyrannulus
Large-headed Flatbill Ramphotrigon megacephalum
Rufous-tailed Attila ◊ Attila phoenicurus
Grey-hooded Attila ◊ Attila rufus
Bright-rumped Attila Attila spadiceus Heard only. Leader Only.
Hooded Berryeater ◊ Carpornis cucullata Endemic.
Black-headed Berryeater ◊ Carpornis melanocephala Endemic.
Swallow-tailed Cotinga ◊ Phibalura flavirostris
Red-ruffed Fruitcrow Pyroderus scutatus
Screaming Piha Lipaugus vociferans

Cinnamon-vented Piha ◊ Lipaugus lanioides Endemic.
Black-and-gold Cotinga ◊ Lipaugus ater Endemic.
Grey-winged Cotinga ◊ Lipaugus conditus Endemic.
Bare-throated Bellbird ◊ Procnias nudicollis
Wied’s Tyrant-Manakin ◊ Neopelma aurifrons Endemic.
Serra do Mar Tyrant-Manakin ◊ Neopelma chrysolophum Endemic.
Blue Manakin ◊ Chiroxiphia caudata
Pin-tailed Manakin ◊ Ilicura militaris Endemic
White-bearded Manakin Manacus manacus
Red-headed Manakin Ceratopipra rubrocapilla
Sharpbill Oxyruncus cristatus
Atlantic Royal Flycatcher ◊ Onychorhynchus swainsoni Endemic.
Whiskered Myiobius ◊ Myiobius barbatus
Black-tailed Myiobius Myiobius atricaudus
Black-crowned Tityra Tityra inquisitor
Black-tailed Tityra Tityra cayana
Brown-winged Schiffornis Schiffornis turdina
Greenish Schiffornis ◊ Schiffornis virescens
Cinereous Mourner Laniocera hypopyrra
Buff-throated Purpletuft ◊ Iodopleura pipra Endemic.
Green-backed Becard Pachyramphus viridis
Chestnut-crowned Becard Pachyramphus castaneus
White-winged Becard Pachyramphus polychopterus
Black-capped Becard Pachyramphus marginatus
Crested Becard Pachyramphus validus
Rufous-browed Peppershrike Cyclarhis gujanensis
Rufous-crowned Greenlet ◊ Hylophilus poicilotis
Lemon-chested Greenlet ◊ Hylophilus thoracicus
Chivi Vireo Vireo chivi
Azure Jay ◊ Cyanocorax caeruleus
Curl-crested Jay Cyanocorax cristatellus
White-rumped Swallow Tachycineta leucorrhoa
White-winged Swallow Tachycineta albiventer
Brown-chested Martin Progne tapera
Purple Martin Progne subis
Grey-breasted Martin Progne chalybea
Southern Rough-winged Swallow Stelgidopteryx ruficollis
Blue-and-white Swallow Pygochelidon cyanoleuca
Tawny-headed Swallow Alopochelidon fucata
Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica
Black-capped Donacobius Donacobius atricapilla
Southern Rough-winged Swallow Stelgidopteryx ruficollis
Blue-and-white Swallow Pygochelidon cyanoleuca
Tawny-headed Swallow Alopochelidon fucata
Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica
Black-capped Donacobius Donacobius atricapilla
Thrush-like Wren Campylorhynchus turdinus
Grass Wren Cistothorus platensis
Moustached Wren Pheugopedius genibarbis
Long-billed Wren ◊ Cantorchilus longirostris Endemic.
Southern House Wren Troglodytes musculus
Trilling Gnatwren Ramphocaenus melanurus
Creamy-bellied Gnatcatcher Polioptila lactea
Chalk-browed Mockingbird Mimus saturninus
Rufous-brown Solitaire ◊ Cichlopsis leucogenys
Blacksmith Thrush Turdus subalaris
Creamy-bellied Thrush Turdus amaurochalinus
Yellow-legged Thrush Turdus flavipes
White-necked Thrush Turdus albicollis
Pale-breasted Thrush Turdus leucomelas
Cocoa Thrush Turdus fumigatus Heard only
Rufous-bellied Thrush Turdus rufiventris
House Sparrow (introduced) Passer domesticus
Common Waxbill (introduced) Estrilda astrild
Yellowish Pipit Anthus chii
Hellmayr’s Pipit Anthus hellmayri
Hooded Siskin Spinus magellanicus
Golden-rumped Euphonia Chlorophonia cyanocephala
Blue-naped Chlorophonia Chlorophonia cyanea
Purple-throated Euphonia Euphonia chlorotica
Green-chinned Euphonia ◊ Euphonia chalybea
Violaceous Euphonia Euphonia violacea
Chestnut-bellied Euphonia ◊ Euphonia pectoralis
Grassland Sparrow Ammodramus humeralis
Half-collared Sparrow ◊ Arremon semitorquatus Endemic.
Rufous-collared Sparrow Zonotrichia capensis
White-browed Meadowlark Leistes superciliaris
Crested Oropendola Psarocolius decumanus
Golden-winged Cacique Cacicus chrysopterus
Red-rumped Cacique Cacicus haemorrhous
Campo Troupial ◊ Icterus jamacaii Endemic.
Giant Cowbird Molothrus oryzivorus
Shiny Cowbird Molothrus bonariensis
Chopi Blackbird Gnorimopsar chopi
Greyish Baywing Agelaioides badius
Unicolored Blackbird Agelasticus cyanopus
Chestnut-capped Blackbird Chrysomus ruficapillus
Saffron-cowled Blackbird ◊ Xanthopsar flavus
Yellow-rumped Marshbird ◊ Pseudoleistes guirahuro
Southern Yellowthroat Geothlypis velata
Tropical Parula Setophaga pitiayumi
White-rimmed Warbler ◊ Myiothlypis leucoblephara
Riverbank Warbler Myiothlypis rivularis
Golden-crowned Warbler Basileuterus culicivorus
Olive-green Tanager ◊ Orthogonys chloricterus Endemic.
Red Tanager Piranga flava
Red-crowned Ant Tanager Habia rubica
Yellow-green Grosbeak Caryothraustes canadensis
Glaucous-blue Grosbeak Cyanoloxia glaucocaerulea
Brown Tanager ◊ Orchesticus abeillei Endemic.
Pampa Finch Embernagra platensis
Lesser Grass Finch ◊ Emberizoides ypiranganus
Wedge-tailed Grass Finch Emberizoides herbicola
Green Honeycreeper Chlorophanes spiza
Yellow-backed Tanager Hemithraupis flavicollis
Rufous-headed Tanager ◊ Hemithraupis ruficapilla Endemic.
Swallow Tanager Tersina viridis
Red-legged Honeycreeper Cyanerpes cyaneus
Blue Dacnis Dacnis cayana
Green-winged Saltator Saltator similis
Buff-throated Saltator Saltator maximus
Black-throated Grosbeak ◊ Saltator fuliginosus
Thick-billed Saltator ◊ Saltator maxillosus
Bananaquit Coereba flaveola
Sooty Grassquit ◊ Asemospiza fuliginosa
Blue-black Grassquit Volatinia jacarina
Black-goggled Tanager Trichothraupis melanops
Flame-crested Tanager Loriotus cristatus
Ruby-crowned Tanager Tachyphonus coronatus
Brazilian Tanager ◊ Ramphocelus bresilia Endemic.
Lined Seedeater Sporophila lineola
Double-collared Seedeater Sporophila caerulescens
Chestnut-bellied Seed Finch Sporophila angolensis
Temminck’s Seedeater ◊ Sporophila falcirostris
Buffy-fronted Seedeater ◊ Sporophila frontalis
White-bellied Seedeater Sporophila leucoptera
Tawny-bellied Seedeater Sporophila hypoxantha
Marsh Seedeater Sporophila palustris
Black-bellied Seedeater ◊ Sporophila melanogaster Endemic.
Tropeiro Seedeater Sporophila beltoni Endemic.
Black-and-rufous Warbling Finch Poospiza nigrorufa
Chestnut-headed Tanager ◊ Thlypopsis pyrrhocoma
Bay-chested Warbling Finch ◊ Castanozoster thoracicus Endemic.
Long-tailed Reed Finch ◊ Donacospiza albifrons
Buff-throated Warbling Finch ◊ Microspingus lateralis Endemic.
Grey-throated Warbling Finch ◊ Microspingus cabanisi
Bicolored Conebill Conirostrum bicolor
Chestnut-vented Conebill Conirostrum speciosum
Saffron Finch Sicalis flaveola
Grassland Yellow Finch Sicalis luteola
Fawn-breasted Tanager Pipraeidea melanonota
Blue-and-yellow Tanager Rauenia bonariensis
Diademed Tanager ◊ Stephanophorus diadematus
Magpie Tanager Cissopis leverianus
Red-crested Cardinal Paroaria coronata
Red-cowled Cardinal ◊ Paroaria dominicana Endemic.
Sayaca Tanager Thraupis sayaca
Azure-shouldered Tanager ◊ Thraupis cyanoptera Endemic.
Golden-chevroned Tanager ◊ Thraupis ornata Endemic.
Palm Tanager Thraupis palmarum
Black-backed Tanager ◊ Stilpnia peruviana Endemic.
Chestnut-backed Tanager ◊ Stilpnia preciosa
Burnished-buff Tanager Stilpnia cayana
Green-headed Tanager ◊ Tangara seledon
Red-necked Tanager ◊ Tangara cyanocephala
Brassy-breasted Tanager ◊ Tangara desmaresti Endemic.
Gilt-edged Tanager ◊ Tangara cyanoventris Endemic.
Turquoise Tanager ◊ (White-bellied T) Tangara mexicana

MAMMALS
Pampas Fox  Lycalopex gymnocercus
South American Coati  Nasua nasua
Tayra    Eira barbara
Black-horned Capuchin   Sapajus nigritus
Buffy-headed Marmoset   Callithrix flaviceps
Geoffroy’s Tufted-ear Marmoset   Callithrix geoffroyi
Brown Howler  Alouatta guariba
Common Red-rumped Agouti   Dasyprocta leporina
Greater Capybara     Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris
Paraguayan Hairy Dwarf Porcupine     Coendou spinosus
Guianan Squirrel   Sciurus aestuans