June 29 -July 9, 2002

Allen & Nancy Chartier

We got to the airport by 9:15 a.m., almost three hours ahead of our departure time. Continental Airlines has moved to the new terminal at Detroit Metro Airport, and this was the first time we'd been to the airport since the expansion. We met John at the gate. Our flight left on time at noon. As we approached Houston, we began circling. The airport had been temporarily closed due to severe thunderstorms. There was a possibility we would be diverted to Beaumont, but luckily the weather broke and we landed an hour late. We've tried to schedule layovers of at least four hours for these kinds of trips for exactly this kind of problem. Our concerns about Larry and Nancy, who were flying in from Phoenix, were allayed when we met them at the gate. Our flight to Quito took off only a few minutes late, at 5:50 p.m., as the rain had mostly stopped. We arrived on time in Quito at 10:30 p.m., and clearing immigration and customs took no time at all. We were met by our guide, Charlie Vogt, and our driver Emilio. They took us to the Four Points Sheraton which, we discovered when we saw the place, we had stayed at before. We met Sue, the sixth and final member of our group, in the lobby. Sue had flown down the day before to take advantage of a free ticket. We all turned in around midnight.

We were in the hotel restaurant at 5:55 for breakfast, then we packed the van and headed for Yanacocha by 6:20. It was shaping up to a sunny day, not too good for birding. Our quest today included the critically endangered Black-breasted Puffleg. The sunny conditions did dampen bird activity, as it always does in the Andes, but the hummingbirds seemed unaffected. Recently, the Jocotoco Foundation had purchased land around Yanacocha to protect his rare hummingbird. We gladly paid our $5.00 US entry fee (Ecuador uses US dollars now, having eliminated the Sucre in 1999). The foundation and researchers have placed hummingbird feeders along the first 800 meters of the trail, in three areas. This resulted in our getting fantastic views of several hummingbird species that are normally somewhat difficult to see well. We birded this area at11,000+ feet for the whole day, encountering but a single mixed species flock when it got cloudy in the afternoon. Unfortunately, our main quest went unfulfilled. There were several other birders on the trail too, yet nobody succeeded. We returned to the hotel, did our bird list, went briefly to the Libri Mundi bookstore across the street from the hotel, had dinner, and turned in.

We had our breakfast at the hotel at 6:00 a.m., and after we checked out we were on our way to Antisana Biological Reserve. There was private ranchland to be crossed at two checkpoints, requiring permission from the owners. We had written permission via FAX, but when we got there we were told the area was closed for 40 days for a quarantine on hoof and mouth disease. Apparently the cousin who gave us permission didn't talk to the one who knew about the quarantine. After some attemoted assistance from one of the local women, we were turned away. We then headed to our next planned destination, the Papallacta Pass. We stopped briefly at a spot part way there to look for Giant Hummingbird, but the strong winds kept everything pretty quiet. We got to the pass and it was raining steadily, so we didn't do much here either except try to lure out a White-chinned Thistletail. The wind pretty much drowned out the tape, so we headed for Guango Lodge to eat our boxed lunches. Luckily, there were bunches of hummingbirds at the feeders, and we even got to walk the trails and road a bit between two rainstorms. We had an excellent meal for dinner, did the bird list, then turned in for the night.

This morning we birded around Guango Lodge again, as it was still misting lightly. Charlie had heard that the bridge (one-lane, 80 feet over a rushing torrent) near Cujuca was out due to a truck falling through (not all the way). We wondered if we'd get through today. Around 9:00 it cleared enough to consider going up to Papallacta. We had some luck with the birds, but the weather was still too poor at the pass to try for the highest elevation species. We returned to Guango Lodge for lunch and found out that the bridge was going to be cleared in the afternoon. When we got there, though, they were still welding the bridge to make it passable, and we were informed they would be allowing traffic to cross in 30 minutes. The only problem was the 4 km. backup of cars and mostly trucks on both sides meant a longer wait. So, we went birding! Partly we birded the road and partly we birded back at Guango. The sudden surge in traffic indicated that vehicles were crossing the bridge, and after an appropriate wait, we headed back. On arriving, we found that the bridge was closed again as another truck had fallen through the slats! We turned around and headed for Quito. Irene Bustamante, our contact for land arrangements, made reservations at the Four Points Sheraton. At least it was a good night for stargazing. Tomorrow we have a long drive to get to Cabanas San Isidro via the long way.

Our 10 hour drive took 13 hours today. Most of the beginning of the road was OK, but the stretch between Puyo and Tena was terrible, and under construction, We made the best of it and made a few birding stops. Our first stop at the Hosteria La Cienega was to look for Subtropical Doradito at the cienega (marsh) for which the place was named. Unfortunately, they had apparently drained the marsh and there was no longer access to this portion of the property. This was in keeping with yesterday's theme of "No hay paso"! Our second stop near Banos was better, but did not turn up our target bird, Purple-collared Woodstar. Stops farther along were more productive, including one at Puyo and another near Rio Verde. It was another great night for stargazing, and after we arrived at Cabanas San Isidro we were able to see the Southern Cross quite brilliantly, as well as parts of the Milky Way visible with the naked eye. During dinner and after the checklist session, two different owls demanded our attention, including the San Isidro mystery owl.

This morning we birded the area around San Isidro via the roads on foot. It was warm and sunny so bird activity was low. After lunch we birded the roads more, but it was even sunnier and we ended up driving to the Guacamayos Ridge area where we were mostly fogged in. The orchids along this stretch of road were great, and under a rock in a ditch we found an interesting tarantula. We were looking for salamanders, but were unsuccessful. We then returned to San Isidro for dinner and the bird list. After dinner we tried calling for Rufous-banded Owl, but only two of the "San Isidro Owls" showed up.

This morning was a little wetter than yesterday, so the birding around San Isidro was a little better. We drove a few kilometers to the end of the road at SierrAzul. A surprise was a Dusky Piha at a stop we made to photograph an orchid. The afternoon was quite rainy and we all got soaked, so spent most of the time under the shelter of a gazebo near the forest where we watched the birds in the rain with a little success. There was a local flock that kept making the rounds through here. After dinner we went out owling, with very limited success.

We started out at 5:30 this morning after an early breakfast for the Loreto Road. The weather was perfect, misty with occasional light rain, and we encountered lots of flocks. This day provided the highest species count (120+) and lifer count (14) of the trip. At the higher portion of the road a few of us scrambled up a very slippery, steep, muddy trail in search of a few specialties. With some effort, we did eventually succeed. Many mixed species flocks were encountered, and it was rare that everyone was on the same birds at once. Allen kept zeroing in on various tyrannulets in the flocks, while Sue kept getting on the Paradise Tanagers! John kept turning up Bay-headed Tanagers. These flocks are a wonderful experience to share, but it is very difficult to share specific birds as there are so many birds, and constant movement. We stopped at one site in the evening mist to call for owls, getting a weak response from a Vermiculated (Foothill) Screech-owl, but it didn’t show itself. We returned to San Isidro around 9:15 for a late dinner.

This morning we went to the Guacamayos Ridge Trail (the Inca Trail), arriving around 7:00 a.m. The trail was muddy, rocky, and a bit treacherous (crossing a landslide), but fairly level. It was raining when we started, and 4-1/2 hours later it was still raining, having gone to mist for only a few minutes when we saw all of the very few birds we recorded here. We only saw about five birds, literally, all through fogged binoculars. We returned to San Isidro for lunch, and most of the group took the afternoon off as it continued to rain. Mitch Lysinger returned with his Field Guides tour group and we talked for a while. Just before dinner it stopped raining and Nancy and I walked down the road, but didn't see much.

After breakfast at 6:00, we headed back up toward SierraAzul where Mitch indicated we could find the Black-billed Mountain-Toucan, one of many new birds that had eluded us during our stay. The weather was perfect this morning, perhaps since we were leaving, and we successfully found the toucan and a couple other new birds in a flock we encountered on the way out. We headed north to Baeza, making a couple birding stops along the way. We then headed west toward Quito via Papallacta, crossing the bridge(s) that had blocked our access on the way out. We stopped at Guango Lodge again because Mitch had said the Mountain Avocetbill was coming to the feeders along with the Sword-billed Hummingbird. Both birds put in very brief appearances almost immediately, but did not reappear despite our waiting more than an hour. But the encore performance of the Tourmaline Sunangels was worthwhile. We then headed up to Papallacta Pass. The Giant Conebills did not cooperate, and neither did the Rufous-bellied Seedsnipe despite our walking more than 1/2 mile at nearly 14,000 feet elevation. We then headed down to the spot we had previously tried for the Giant Hummingbird and this time we were successful with a bird perched on a wire. We headed into Quito and got tangled up in rush hour traffic before getting to our hotel at 6:40 p.m. We barely had time to eat dinner (the restaurant had slow service), shower, and repack before we had to depart for the airport at 8:30. Charlie came by at 8:00 to do a final checklist, but did not accompany us to the airport. Emilio dropped us at the airport and we got checked in for our flight, which was delayed until midnight.

We slept almost all the way to Houston, even through the short layover in Guayaquil where they cleaned the plane (it needed it). We arrived in Houston around 6:40 a.m. and got through immigration quickly despite there only being one lane open (great planning). Customs went a bit slower as they made Allen take his film out of the clear plastic canisters so the canisters could be x-rayed! Weird. Sue apparently made the connection to her 7:40 flight. Our 10:50 flight time allowed time for catching up on trip notes. We arrived home on schedule and had a relaxing afternoon unpacking.

A total of 287 species was seen, with 44 lifers for Allen and Nancy.

1. Little Tinamou (Crypturellus soui) [1h]

Heard only along the Loreto Road.

2. Speckled (Andean) Teal (Anas andinum) [25]

Seen at Papallacta Lake at Papallacta Pass.

3. Yellow-billed Pintail (Anas georgica) [15]

Seen at Papallacta Lake at Papallacta Pass.

4. Black Vulture (Coragyps atratus) [181]

One was in Quito, with the remainder on the east slope near Puyo and along the road from Tena to Cosanga.

5. Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura) [1]

Seen only near Banos.

6. Swallow-tailed Kite (Elanoides forficatus) [13]

One was along the road from Tena to Cosanga, and the others were in one group over the Loreto Road.

7. Plumbeous Kite (Ictinea plumbea) [3]

Two were along the road from Tena to Cosanga, and the other was over the Loreto Road.

8. Plain-breasted Hawk (Accipter ventralis) [2]

One immature was at Cabanas San Isidro and an adult was at SierrAzul nearby.

9. Black-chested Buzzard-Eagle (Geranoaetus melanoleucus) [1]

Along the Papallacta Road between Quito and Papallacta Pass.

10. Roadside Hawk (Buteo magnirostris) [11]

The first one at Guango Lodge allowed lengthy views while it perched in a woodlot nearby. This bird was so pale that we thought it might be a Gray Hawk, but the solid gray chest and slight rufous in the primaries convinced us of the correct ID. Others were seen along the Papallacta Road near Cujuca, near Puyo, along the road from Tena to Cosanga, Cabanas San Isidro and nearby SierrAzul, the Loreto Road, and along the road from Cosanga to Baeza.

11. White-rumped Hawk (Buteo leucorrhous) [1]

Seen circling over Cabanas San Isidro.

*12. White-throated Hawk (Buteo albigula) [1]

Circling over Guango Lodge.

13. Red-backed Hawk (Buteo polyosoma) [3]

All were along the Papallacta Road between Quito and Papallacta.

14. Puna Hawk (Buteo poecilochrous) [2]

One was along the Papallacta Road near Papallacta, and the other was up in the paramo at Papallacta Pass.

15. Collared Forest-Falcon (Micrastur semitorquatus) [2h]

Heard every morning and evening near Cabanas San Isidro, but we were never able to get close enough to see the birds.

16. Orange-breasted Falcon (Falco deiroleucus) [1]

Excellent scope views of a perched bird alongside the Loreto Road in the vicinity of a known nest.

17. Sickle-winged Guan (Chamaepetes goudotii) [1]

Seen in a treetop at Cabanas San Isidro.

18. Andean Gull (Larus serranus) [1]

Seen flying over Lake Papallacta.

19. Rock Dove (Columba livia) [10]

Seen only along the Papallacta Road and at the Hosteria La Cienega near Latacunga.

20. Band-tailed Pigeon (Columba fasciata) [26]

One was on the outskirts of Quito on the way to Yanacocha and one was at the Hosteria La Cineega near Latacunga. All others were at Papallacta, at SierrAzul near Cabanas San Isidro, and along the road from Cosanga to Baeza.

21. Ruddy Pigeon (Columba subvinacea) [2]

Both were along the Loreto Road.

22. Eared Dove (Zenaida auriculata) [25]

Seen along the Papallacta Road, at the Hosteria La Cienega, and near Banos.

23. White-throated Quail-Dove (Geotrygon frenata) [1h]

Heard only along the Guacamayos Ridge trail.

24. White-eyed Parakeet (Aratinga leucophthalmus) [87]

Seen in two areas, along the road from Tena to Cosanga, and along the Loreto Road, both at lower elevations as expected for this species.

25. Barred Parakeet (Bolborhynchus lineola) [2]

Both were together at Cabanas San Isidro. Incredibly, they were perched in a tree allowing good views. Allen and Nancy have seen this species many times in several countries, but this was the first time they’d been seen perched.

26. Blue-headed Parrot (Pionus menstruus) [25]

All were in groups along the Loreto Road.

27. Red-billed Parrot (Pionus sordidus) [4]

All were in flight over Cabanas San Isidro.

28. Speckle-faced (White-capped) Parrot (Pionus tumultuosus) [16]

In small groups at several higher elevation areas including Cabanas San Isidro, nearby SierrAzul, and the higher areas of the Loreto Road.

*29. Scaly-naped Parrot (Amazona mercenaria) [30]

Groups flew over SierrAzul near Cabanas San Isidro and the Guacamayos Ridge trailhead.

30. Squirrel Cuckoo (Piaya cayana) [4]

Heard at Cabanas San Isidro, and two seen along the Loreto Road.

ANIS

31. Smooth-billed Ani (Crotophaga ani) [9]

Most were at the lower elevations along the road from Tena to Cosanga. Others were at lower elevations of the Loreto Road.

32. Vermiculated (*Foothill) Screech-Owl (Otus [roraimae] vermiculatus) [1h]

Heard on that misty evening along the Loreto Road. Did not come in to the tape. This species is considered separate from Vermiculated or Middle American Screech-Owl (Otus vermiculatus) in the new Ecuador field guide, but the appropriate studies and papers have not yet been published in support of this. Based on personal experience, the calls of this bird were virtually identical to birds heard in southern Mexico.

*33. White-throated Screech-Owl (Otus albogularis) [1h]

Heard along the road near Cabanas San Isidro, but quite distant and the bird did not come in to the tape.

34. "San Isidro" Owl (Strix sp.) [2]

A fairly recently discovered bird, and it is not yet clear what these owls are! Their appearance is between that of Black-banded (Strix huhula) and Black-and-white (Strix nigrolineata) Owls, and in my opinion is a bit closer in appearance to Black-and-white. Neither of these known species is found above about 2,000’ elevation, which makes the presence of such a bird at 6,500’ quite a mystery indeed, and makes the thought of a hybrid between the two seem rather remote as well. Black-and-white Owl is found only in the Pacific lowlands in Ecuador, and Black-banded is found only in the Amazonian lowlands. If this were a disjunct, well marked subspecies of either species, it is well above the elevational world range of either. This could very well be a species unknown to science! These birds have apparently raised young in more than one year at this site, and they seem to dominate the local Rufous-banded Owls, as they were very responsive to the tape of that species.

35. Rufous-banded Owl (Strix albitarsus) [2h]

Heard rather distantly around Cabanas San Isidro, apparently driven away by the previous birds.

*36. Rufous-bellied Nighthawk (Lurocalis rufiventris) [2]

Watched swooping over the lights at Cabanas San Isidro one evening. Rather large and short-tailed.

37. Band-winged Nightjar (Caprimulgus longirostris) [1]

One seen very well in the headlights along the road near Cabanas San Isidro.

38. Chestnut-collared Swift (Streptoprocne rutila) [24]

Two were overhead at Cabanas San Isidro. Most were over the Loreto Road and the road from Cosanga to Baeza.

39. White-collared Swift (Streptoprocne zonaris) [6]

Usually much more numerous. Seen only at Yanacocha.

40. Gray-rumped Swift (Chaetura cinereiventris) [30]

The commonest small swift over the Loreto Road, the only place we saw this species.

41. Short-tailed Swift (Chaetura brachyura) [10]

Most were along the Loreto Road where they were mixed in with the previous species, but easily identified by their diagnostic wing shape and shorter tails. Two were also seen along the road from Tena to Cosanga.

42. Green Hermit (Phaethornis guy) [2]

Seen along the Loreto Road, where a number of other hermits escaped positive identification by zipping over the road into the forest. Some of those may have been this species as well.

43. Tawny-bellied Hermit (Phaethornis syrmatophorus) [2]

Seen briefly twice at Cabanas San Isidro, but only at the feeders near the woods, not near the buildings.

*44. Gray-chinned Hermit (Phaethornis griseogularis) [2]

Both were along the lower end of the Loreto Road.

*45. Napo Sabrewing (Campylopterus villaviscensio) [1]

This rare hummingbird was seen quite well perched in roadside vegetation about half way along the Loreto Road.

46. Brown Violet-ear (Colibri delphinae) [1]

Seen briefly along the road from Cosanga to Baeza.

47. Sparkling Violet-ear (Colibri coruscans) [53]

Common at high elevation areas, including in Quito, at Yanacocha, along the Papallacta Road, and a few around Guango Lodge. The ones at Yanacocha were coming to the feeders, but the ones near Guango were not for some reason.

48. Violet-headed Hummingbird (Klais gujimeti) [1]

A female seen briefly along the Loreto Road.

49. Speckled Hummingbird (Adelomyia melanogenys) [30]

A few were at Yanacocha and Guango Lodge at the feeders, but most common around Cabanas San Isidro.

50. Fawn-breasted Brilliant (Heliodoxa rubinoides) [9]

Most were at the feeders at Cabanas San Isidro. One was along the roadside from Cosanga to Baeza.

51. Violet-fronted Brilliant (Heliodoxa leadbeateri) [1]

Seen in low vegetation along the road from Cosanga to Baeza. We first thought this might have been a Blue-fronted Lancebill, but we decided it was this species after reviewing the field guide.

*52. White-tailed Hillstar (Urochroa bougueri) [1]

Seen only at the feeders at Cabanas San Isidro. There might have been more than one present, but the infrequency of visits, and the fact that we only saw one at a time leads me to believe there was probably only one.

53. Giant Hummingbird (Patagonia gigas) [1]

After several attempts, we finally saw one on the Quito side of the Papallacta Road on our last day, spotted by Allen sitting on a wire in an area that we had checked before.

54. Shining Sunbeam (Agleactis cupripennis) [19]

Most were at Yanacocha, where they were visiting feeders providing us with the best views we’ve ever had of this species. Others were along the Papallacta Road at the highest elevations.

55. Mountain Velvetbreast (Lafresnaya lafresnayi) [4]

All were at Yanacocha, with two making brief visits to the feeders there.

56. Great Sapphirewing (Pterophanes cyanopterus) [20]

All were at Yanacocha, with several coming to the feeders there providing us with the best views we’ve ever had of this species.

*57. Bronzy Inca (Coeligena coeligena) [4]

Seen only at the feeders at Cabanas San Isidro.

58. Collared Inca (Coeligena torquata) [57]

Very common at the feeders at Guango Lodge, and fairly common at the feeders at Cabanas San Isidro. A few were seen away from feeders, with two at Guacamayos Ridge and three at SierrAzul near San Isidro.

59. Buff-winged Starfrontlet (Coeligena lutetiae) [13]

Most were at Yanacocha, with a couple coming in to the feeders there providing us with our best views ever of this species. More easily detected than other hummingbirds as their nasal call is most distinctive. One came to the feeders briefly a few times at Guango Lodge but was always quickly driven off by the hordes of Collared Incas and Toumaline Sunangels.

60. Sword-billed Hummingbird (Ensifera ensifera) [5]

Amazingly, we saw no less than four at Yanacocha, including two that were jousting in mid-air! One snuck in briefly to one of the feeders at Guango Lodge just before we departed.

*61. Chestnut-breasted Coronet (Boissonneaua matthewsii) [8]

All were at the feeders at Cabanas San Isidro. There may have been more present, but no more than six at once was seen. We had such good views of this handsome bird that we were able to see the golden feather shafts of the outer tail feathers.

*62. Tourmaline Sunangel (Heliangelus exortis) [35]

All were at Guango Lodge, where we saw many males continually displaying to each other on vegetation and at the feeders, flashing their incredible blue and magenta gorgets and turquoise crowns and breast plates. Many females and possibly juveniles, with their white throats, were present as well. Truly, the hummingbird star of Guango Lodge.

63. Sapphire-vented Puffleg (Eriocnemis luciani) [10]

All were at Yanacocha, where most were in the roadside vegetation and only a couple were at the feeders there.

*64. Golden-breasted Puffleg (Eriocnemis mosquera) [4]

Three were at the feeders at Yanacocha. There may have been more present, but the feeders provided the only opportunity to study them closely enough to identify them. They were very similar to Sapphire-vented Pufflegs, but with shorter more square tails.

65. Booted Racket-tail (Ocreatus underwoodii) [1]

An adult male of the buff-thighed form, our first, was seen along the Loreto Road.

66. Black-tailed Trainbearer (Lesbia victoriae) [5]

Two were in Quito, one was at Yanacocha, one was along the Papallacta Road, and one was near Banos.

67. Green-tailed Trainbearer (Lesbia nuna) [1]

We really worked hard for this one, usually it is easier to find. Seen in an area on the outskirts of Quito.

68. Purple-backed Thornbill (Ramphomicron microrhynchum) [7]

Most were at Yanacocha, where they did not come to the feeders, perhaps because of their short bills. Seen in the flowering shrubbery there. One was also in Polylepis at Papallacta Pass.

*69. Mountain Avocetbill (Opisthoprora euryptera) [1]

Glimpsed for barely a second at Guango Lodge by only a couple of us before it quickly departed from the feeder in the direction away from us.

70. Long-tailed Sylph (Aglaiocercus kingi) [20]

A few were at Guango Lodge, but much more common at Cabanas San Isidro. We also saw them away from the feeders there near SierrAzul and along the road from Cosanga to Baeza.

71. Crested Quetzal (Pharomachrus antisianus) [3]

All were at Cabanas San Isidro. Not seen particularly well.

72. Masked Trogon (Trogon personatus) [2]

Both were at Cabanas San Isidro.

73. Amazon Kingfisher (Chloroceryle amazona) [2]

Both were along the lower areas of the Loreto Road.

*74. Highland Motmot (Momotus aequatorialis) [2]

Heard daily at Cabanas San Isidro, and eventually seen on the edge of the forest near the gazebo. Another was heard along the upper part of the Loreto Road.

*75. Striolated Puffbird (Nystalus striolatus) [2]

Seen,with effort, by the few who negotiated the mud trail up the steep hillside along the upper Loreto Road.

76. Red-headed Barbet (Eubucco bourcierii) [8]

All were along the lower portions of the Loreto Road. This is about the commonest we’ve seen them anywhere.

77. Chestnut-tipped Toucanet (Aulacorhynchus derbianus) [1]

Always a scarce bird, we saw one along the Loreto Road.

78. Ivory-billed Aracari (Pteroglossus azara) [2]

Both were along the lower portions of the Loreto Road.

79. Gray-breasted Mountain-Toucan (Andigena hypoglauca) [2]

Excellent views as they sat cooperatively in a tree near Guango Lodge.

*80. Black-billed Mountain-Toucan (Andigena nigrirostris) [2]

On our departure from Cabanas San Isidro, we drove back toward SierrAzul for a few last minute birds, including this species that had eluded us. They finally responded to tape and came in from quite a distance, and gave us excellent views.

81. Golden-collared Toucanet (Selenidera reinwardtii) [1]

Seen very well at the lowest part of the Loreto Road where we turned around. This bird was first located by calls, then found going to roost for the night in a trailside tree.

82. Yellow-tufted Woodpecker (Melanerpes cruentatus) [2]

Both were seen in bare trees at the lowest end of the Loreto Road.

*83. Yellow-vented Woodpecker (Veniliornis dignus) [1]

Seen well along the road near Cabanas San Isidro as we were leaving.

84. Bar-bellied Woodpecker (Veniliornis nigriceps) [4]

Seen only at the higher elevations of Yanacocha and Guango Lodge.

85. Smoky-brown Woodpecker (Veniliornis fumigatus) [2]

Both were along the lower part of the Loreto Road.

86. Crimson-mantled Woodpecker (Piculus rivolii) [3]

Always a delight to see, and seen well at Cabanas San Isidro. One was also along the road from Cosanga to Baeza.

87. Powerful Woodpecker (Campephilus pollens) [3]

Essentially the only bird we saw along the rainy, treacherous Guacamayos Ridge trail. Apparently a family group that gave us good views in the top of a tree where the rain had slowed somewhat.

88. Plain-brown Woodcreeper (Dendrocincla fuliginosa) [2]

Both were along the lower areas of the Loreto Road.

89. Olive-backed Woodcreeper (Xiphorhynchus triangularis) [1]

Seen along the Loreto Road.

90. Montane Woodcreeper (Lepidocolaptes lacrymiger) [15]

Seen at many montane forested areas, except for the highest and lowest elevations we visited.

91. Bar-winged Cinclodes (Cinclodes fuscus) [6]

All were in the Papallacta area.

92. Stout-billed Cinclodes (Cinclodes excelsior) [1]

One was seen in the Papallacta area.

93. Andean Tit-Spinetail (Leptasthenura andicola) [2]

Seen and heard in the Papallacta area.

*94. White-chinned Thistletail (Schizoeaca fuliginosa) [3]

Eventually responded to tape and gave us good looks in the Papallacta area.

95. Azara’s Spinetail (Synallaxis azarae) [12]

Most were in the Cabanas San Isidro area, where we also had views of a couple. Others were along the road to Yanacocha near Quito and at Yanacocha. Two were heard east of Quito along the Papallacta Road.

96. Dark-breasted Spinetail (Synallaxis albigularis) [3h]

Heard only near Puyo and along the lower areas of the Loreto Road.

*97. Rufous Spinetail (Synallaxis unirufa) [3]

All were at Cabanas San Isidro, where we eventually got a view of one.

98. Ash-browed Spinetail (Cranioleuca curtata) [3]

Seen fairly well along the Loreto Road.

99. Many-striped Canastero (Asthenes flammulata) [1]

Seen only near Papallacta Pass.

100. Spotted Barbtail (Premnoplex brunnescens) [3]

Two were seen briefly at Cabanas San Isidro and one was heard along the upper elevations of the Loreto Road.

101. Pearled Treerunner (Margarornis squamiger) [16]

Always a neat bird to see, they were frequently with flocks, including at Yanacocha, Guango Lodge, Cabanas San Isidro, and the upper elevations of the Loreto Road.

102. Streaked Tuftedcheek (Pseudocolaptes boissonneautii) [2]

One was in a distant tree across an open field near Cujuca along the Papallacta Road east of Guango Lodge, and one was at Cabanas San Isidro.

103. Lineated Foliage-Gleaner (Syndactyla subalaris) [1]

Seen along the road near Cabanas San Isidro.

104. Montane Foliage-Gleaner (Anabacerthia striaticollis) [1]

Seen along the roadside near Rio Verde on our long driving day.

105. Rufous-rumped Foliage-Gleaner (Philydor erythrocercus) [1]

Seen along the Loreto Road in one of the many flocks encountered.

106. Buff-fronted Foliage-Gleaner (Philydor rufus) [1]

This fairly distinctive-looking bird was seen by Allen only along the upper portion of the Loreto Road.

107. Black-billed Treehunter (Thripadectes melanorhynchus) [2]

Both responded quite well to tape at the upper portion of the Loreto Road, even responding quite uncharacteristically by providing good views in the open.

*108. Lined Antshrike (Thamnophilus tenuepunctatus) [22]

Two were heard along the road from Tena to Cosanga. The remainder were seen along the Loreto Road where several were seen fairly easily.

109. Russet Antshrike (Thamnistes anabatinus) [1]

Seen well in a mixed species flock along the Loreto Road.

*110. Stripe-chested Antwren (Myrmotherula longicauda) [1]

Seen only by Allen in a mixed species flock near the upper end of the Loreto Road.

*111. Ornate Antwren (Myrmotherula ornata) [1]

A single female was seen at the lower end of the Loreto Road.

*112. Yellow-breasted Antwren (Herpsilochmus axillaris) [3]

All were seen well along the Loreto Road.

113. Dot-winged Antwren (Microhopias quixensis) [1]

A single bird, a distinctive female, was seen at the lower end of the Loreto Road by Allen and possibly by others.

114. Long-tailed Antbird (Drymophila caudata) [9]

Most were at Cabanas San Isidro where they were relatively easy to see. One was heard along the road from Cosanga to Baeza.

115. Blackish Antbird (Cercomacra nigrescens) [2h]

Heard only, along the lower portion of the Loreto Road.

116. Black Antbird (Cercomacra serva) [6]

All were along the Loreto Road, some at middle elevations higher up than the previous species. Most were heard, but one or two were seen.

117. Rufous-breasted Antthrush (Formicarius rufipectus) [1h]

Heard only at the lowest portion of the Loreto Road.

118. Chestnut-crowned Antpitta (Grallaria ruficapilla) [7h]

All were heard only, the first one at Guango Lodge, and most at Cabanas San Isidro. One was heard at SierrAzul.

119. Chestnut-naped Antpitta (Grallaria nuchalis) [1h]

Heard in the distance by Allen, and possibly others, at Yanacocha.

*120. White-bellied Antpitta (Grallaria hypoleuca) [2h]

Both were heard calling from the woodlands at Cabanas San Isidro.

121. Rufous Antpitta (Grallaria rufula) [1h]

Calling from very close by, but only once, at Yanacocha.

122. Tawny Antpitta (Grallaria quitensis) [7]

Two were at Yanacocha, with one seen briefly. All others were in the Papallacta area, with at least one seen there also.

123. Ash-colored Tapaculo (Myiornis senilis) [2]

One was seen, with effort, at Yanacocha. At least one other was heard at Cabanas San Isidro.

124. Unicolored Tapaculo (Scytalopus unicolor) [14h]

The most frequently encountered tapaculo, but unfortunately the most difficult to see. We were unsuccessful in this, but heard them at a number of locations, from Yanacocha, Guango Lodge, and Cabanas San Isidro.

*125. Equatorial Rufous-vented Tapaculo (Scytalopus micropterus) [3h]

The distinctive call of this species, recently split from Rufous-vented Tapaculo, was heard only at Cabanas San Isidro.

126. Spillman’s Tapaculo (Scytalopus spillmani) [1]

One of the very few birds along the Guacamayos Ridge Trail. Surprisingly, this was a non-calling bird that apparently had come into the open somewhat due to the rain.

*127. Paramo Tapaculo (Scytalopus canus) [1h]

Heard calling from the Polylepis grove near Papallacta.

128. Red-crested Cotinga (Ampelion rubrocristata) [3]

One was seen at Yanacocha, and two were along the Papallacta Road between Quito and Papallacta.

129. Green-and-black Fruiteater (Pipreola riefferii) [8]

Most were heard, with only one being seen, at Cabanas San Isidro and the Guacamayos area.

130. Barred Fruiteater (Pipreola arcuata) [3h]

All were heard along the trail at Yanacocha.

*131. Scarlet-breasted Fruiteater (Pipreola frontalis) [2h]

One was heard near Puyo and another (or more?) was near Cabanas San Isidro. The latter bird responded to tape by coming closer, but didn’t show itself.

*132. Dusky Piha (Lipaugus fuscocinereus) [1]

Amazingly, at a stop near SierrAzul where we stopped to photograph a common roadside orchid, we heard this scarce species calling, which responded very well to tape by giving us very good views.

133. Streak-necked Flycatcher (Mionectes striaticollis) [6]

Most were at Cabanas San Isidro and the upper areas of the Loreto Road. One was near Rio Verde on the way from Tena to Cosanga.

134. Olive-striped Flycatcher (Mionectes olivaceus) [1]

Very similar to the previous species, but with different calls. Seen well along the Loreto Road.

*135. Rufous-breasted Flycatcher (Leptopogon rufipectus) [4]

One was in the Guacamayos area and the others were around Cabanas San Isidro.

136. Slaty-capped Flycatcher (Leptopogon superciliaris) [4]

All were in mixed species flocks along the lower Loreto Road.

137. Rufous-crowned Tody-Tyrant (Poecilotriccus ruficeps) [6]

All were at Cabanas San Isidro where they were located by their weird gutteral duetting "songs".

*138. Black-and-white Tody-Tyrant (Poecilotriccus capitalis) [1]

A very distinctive female was watched for several minutes at the low end of the Loreto Road as it sat motionless in a low shrub while an equally distinct-looking Scale-crested Pygmy-Tyrant flitted nearby . Apparently a male was seen nearby by John and possibly others.

139. Common Tody-Flycatcher (Todirostrum cinereum) [5]

Three were near Rio Verde and two were at the low end of the Loreto Road.

140. Golden-winged Tody-Flycatcher (Todirostrum calopterum) [1]

Seen well at the lower end of the Loreto Road.

141. Sooty-headed Tyrannulet (Phyllomyias griseiceps) [1]

Seen along the lower area of the Loreto Road.

142. Black-capped Tyrannulet (Phyllomyias nigrocapillus) [3]

All were along the Papallacta Road near Guango Lodge.

*143. Tawny-rumped Tyrannulet (Phyllomyias uropygialis) [1]

Along the trail at Yanacocha.

144. Golden-faced Tyrannulet (Zimmerius chrysops) [15]

Many were located by their distinctive calls, but several were seen also. Most were along the Loreto Road, but others were near Guacamayos, and along the roads between Tena and Cosanga, and from Cosanga to Baeza.

145. White-crested Elaenia (Elaenia albiceps) [14]

Most were near Quito and at Yanacocha, and a few were along the Papallacta Road from Quito to Papallacta.

146. White-throated Tyrannulet (Mecocerculus leucophrys) [3]

Two were at Yanacocha and one was in a Polylepis grove near Papallacta.

147. White-tailed Tyrannulet (Mecocerculus poecilocercus) [7]

All were at Cabanas San Isidro and along the Loreto Road.

*148. Sulphur-bellied Tyrannulet (Mecocerculus minor) [2]

Both were along the road near Cabanas San Isidro as we were leaving.

149. White-banded Tyrannulet (Mecocerculus stictopterus) [22]

All were at Yanacocha, Gango Lodge, and along the Papallacta Road.

150. Torrent Tyrannulet (Serpophaga cinerea) [1]

Seen only at Cabanas San Isidro.

151. Tufted Tit-Tyrant (Anairetes parulus) [4]

Two were near Papallacta, where expected. The other two were on a dry hillside near Banos at a very low elevation of about 6500’.

152. Agile Tit-Tyrant (Uromyias agilis) [1]

Seen near Papallacta at the same location as the above species.

153. Scale-crested Pygmy-Tyrant (Lophotriccus pileatus) [1]

In the same shrub as the female Black-and-white Tody-Tyrant at the lowest end of the Loreto Road.

154. Ornate Flycatcher (Myiotriccus ornatus) [5]

All were along the Loreto Road, and were fairly well seen.

*155. Handsome Flycatcher (Myiophobus pulcher) [2]

Both were at Cabanas San Isidro and were fairly well seen.

156. Cinnamon Flycatcher (Pyrrhomyias cinnamomea) [10]

Seen well at Guango Lodge and along the Papallacta Road. Several were easy to see at Cabanas San Isidro, including SierrAzul.

157. Smoke-colored Pewee (Contopus fumigatus) [8]

Seen at Guango Lodge, Cabanas San Isidro, the Guacamayos area, and the upper part of the Loreto Road.

158. Black Phoebe (Sayornis nigricans) [4]

Two were near Puyo, one was along the Loreto Road, and one was along the road from Cosanga and Baeza. All were of the expected white-winged form

159. Crowned Chat-Tyrant (Silvicultrix frontalis) [1]

Seen well at Yanacocha.

160. Rufous-breasted Chat-Tyrant (Ochthoeca rufipectoralis) [2]

Both were at Guango Lodge, and were easily seen on both days we stayed there.

161. Brown-backed Chat-Tyrant (Ochthoeca fumicolor) [5]

All were along the Papallacta Road in the vicinity of Papallacta and the pass.

162. Streak-throated Bush-Tyrant (Myiotheretes striaticullos) [3]

One was seen distantly at Yanacocha, and two were perched in a tree in the courtyard of the Hosteria La Cienega near Latacunga.

163. Smoky Bush-Tyrant (Myiotheretes fumigatus) [3]

One was at Yanacocha, one was at Cabanas San Isidro, and one was near SierrAzul.

164. Plain-capped (Paramo) Ground-Tyrant (Muscisaxicola alpina) [2]

Both were in the high paramo at Papallacta Pass.

165. Long-tailed Tyrant (Colonia colonus) [2]

Both were in a bare snag at the lowest end of the Loreto Road.

166. Dusky-capped Flycatcher (Myiarchus tuberculifer) [3]

All were along the Loreto Road, only one was seen in a treetop.

*167. Pale-edged Flycatcher (Myiarchus cephalotes) [1]

Seen in the same area as we found the Dusky Piha near SierrAzul near Cabanas San Isidro. Luckily, the bird gave us good views allowing us to see its conspicuous white edging on its wing feathers, and lack of rufous on the tail.

168. Tropical Kingbird (Tyrannus melancholicus) [89]

Most common along the Loreto Road and along the road from Cosanga to Baeza. A few were also along the road from Tena to Cosanga as well as around Cabanas San Isidro.

*169. Lemon-browed Flycatcher (Conopias cichoneti) [3]

One was seen very well along the Loreto Road. The other two were along the road from Cosanga to Baeza and were also seen well.

170. Golden-crowned Flycatcher (Myiodynastes chrysocephalus) [2]

One was seen along the Loreto Road and the other was heard at SierrAzul near Cabanas San Isidro.

171. Social Flycatcher (Myiozetetes similis) [4]

One was at Rio Verde and the rest were along the Loreto Road.

172. Yellow-cheeked Becard (Pachyramphus xanthogenys) [1]

A male seen very well sitting on a branch over the road along the Loreto Road.

173. Barred Becard (Pachyramphus versicolor) [2]

One was seen briefly with a flock near Guango Lodge, but only by Allen. The other was in the flock near the gazebo at Cabanas San Isidro, and was seen multiple times but again only by Allen!

174. White-winged Becard (Pachyramphus polychopterus) [1]

A male was seen well by some along the Loreto Road.

175. Turquoise Jay (Cyanolyca turcosa) [12]

Seen well at Guango Lodge and near SierrAzul, with others near Cujuca along the Papallacta Road. Oddly, near SierrAzul we spent about 30 minutes calling in what we thought was a Collared Forest-Falcon, which turned out to be a pair of these birds!

176. Inca (Green) Jay (Cyanocorax yncas) [21]

All were on the east slope, with one near Puyo, and the rest at Cabanas San Isidro, Loreto Road, and the road from Cosanga to Baeza.

*177. Black-billed Peppershrike (Cyclarhis nigrirostris) [3]

Two were heard at Cabanas San Isidro, including one right behind our cabin, but in true peppershrike fashion failed to show themselves. We spent some time calling one in along the road from Cosanga to Baeza, eventually getting good, if distant, views.

178. Red-eyed Vireo (Vireo olivaceus) [2]

Both were at Rio Verde with the flock we found there.

179. Brown-capped Vireo (Vireo leucophrys) [6]

Most were at Cabanas San Isidro. One was heard at SierrAzul.

180. Olivaceous Greenlet (Hylophilus olivaceus) [8]

All were along the Loreto Road, where a couple were well seen.

181. Andean Solitaire (Myadestes ralloides) [4]

Two were at the Guacamayos area, and two were near Cabanas San Isidro. One of the latter birds allowed extraordinary views, especially considering how difficult this species usually is to see.

182. Slaty-backed Nightingale-Thrush (Catharus fuscater) [1h]

Heard only at Guango Lodge.

183. Great Thrush (Turdus fuscater) [75]

Seen at higher elevation sites, including Yanacocha, Quito, the Papallacta Road and pass, and Guango Lodge. One was in the Guacamayos area, the only one on the lower east slope.

184. Glossy-black Thrush (Turdus serranus) [5]

Most were heard only at Cabanas San Isidro. Two were seen at SierrAzul.

185. Chestnut-bellied Thrush (Turdus fulviventris) [1]

One was seen briefly in the Guacamayos area by some.

186. Black-billed Thrush (Turdus ignobilis) [4]

A juvenile was seen being attended by an adult near Rio Verde. Another was long the road from Tena to Cosanga, and one was at Cabanas San Isidro.

187. Thrush-like Wren (Campylorhynchus turdinus) [4]

All were along the lower portions of the Loreto Road and, as typical, they were difficult to see. A couple did eventually begrudge us a glimpse or two.

188. Gray-mantled Wren (Odontorchilus branickii) [1]

Seen fairly well with a flock near the upper elevations of the Loreto Road. Very gnatcatcher-like.

189. Rufous Wren (Cinnycerthia unirufa) [6]

All were in one group along the trail at Yanacocha.

190. Sedge (Grass) Wren (Cistothorus platensis) [2h]

Heard in the paramo at the highest elevations near Papallacta.

191. Plain-tailed Wren (Thryothorus euophrys) [9h]

One was at Guango Lodge. Most were in the Cabanas San Isidro area with two at SierrAzul. As typical for this species, all were heard and not seen.

192. Coraya Wren (Thryothorus coraya) [4h]

All were heard along the Loreto Road.

193. House Wren (Troglodytes aedon) [2h]

One was at Rio Verde and one was along the Loreto Road.

194. Mountain Wren (Troglodytes solstitialis) [15]

Seen at most mid-elevation mountainous locations, including Guango Lodge and Cabanas San Isidro. One was heard at the higher elevations of the Loreto Road.

195. Gray-breasted Wood-Wren (Henicorhina leucophrys) [18]

All were on the east slope, and was fairly common at Cabanas San Isidro and along the Loreto Road, as well as a few around Guacamayos and along the road from Cosanga to Baeza.

196. Wing-banded Wren (Microcerculus bambla) [3h]

All were heard along the lower part of the Loreto Road. A skulker that is rarely seen.

197. Brown-bellied Swallow (Notiochelidon murina) [110]

Most were around Quito and Yanacocha. Also a few were along the Papallacta Road.

198. Blue-and-white Swallow (Pygochelidon cyanoleuca) [175]

Common everywhere except highest elevations at Yanacocha and Papallacta.

199. White-banded Swallow (Atticora fasciata) [20]

Seen only along the road from Tena to Cosanga.

200. Southern Rough-winged Swallow (Stelgidopteryx ruficollis) [40]

Most were along the Loreto Road, but a few were also near Puyo.

201. Hooded Siskin (Carduelis magellanica) [10]

Seen along the Papallacta Road, near Latacunga, Banos, and Rio Verde.

202. Olivaceous Siskin (Carduelis olivacea) [36]

Most were along the Loreto Road and along the road from Cosanga to Baeza. Several were seen well at Cabanas San Isidro.

203. Lesser Goldfinch (Carduelis psaltria) [1]

On the hillside near Banos. A very local and difficult species to see in Ecuador. This was Allen’s first despite this being his sixth trip to Ecuador.

204. Tropical Parula (Parula pitiayumi) [5]

The first one was heard at Rio Verde. One was heard daily at Cabanas San Isidro and two were seen along the Loreto Road. One was along the road from Cosanga to Baeza.

205. Slate-throated Whitestart (Myioborus miniatus) [15]

Most were along the Loreto Road. A few seen daily around Cabanas San Isidro.

206. Spectacled Whitestart (Myioborus melanocephalus) [42]

Seen and heard everywhere we went; John was particularly adept at finding them for us. Most numerous around Cabanas San Isidro.

207. Citrine Warbler (Basileuterus luteoviridis) [3]

Seen twice at Guango Lodge and once at Cabanas San Isidro.

208. Black-crested Warbler (Basileuterus nigrocristatus) [8]

Scattered individuals, located by their distinctive song, at Yanacocha, Guango Lodge, near Cujuca, and several at Cabanas San Isidro.

209. Russet-crowned Warbler (Basileuterus coronatus) [6]

This bird has one of the most distinctive and beautiful of all Andean bird songs. Located by song at Guango Lodge and Cabanas San Isidro, and a couple were seen briefly at the latter site.

210. Rufous-collared Sparrow (Zonotrichia capensis) [135]

Seen nearly everywhere we went.

211. Yellow-browed Sparrow (Ammodramus aurifrons) [5]

Two were near Puyo and three were along the Loreto Road.

212. Pale-naped Brush-Finch (Atlapetes pallidinucha) [1]

Seen along the road near Guango Lodge.

213. Rufous-naped Brush-Finch (Atlapetes rufinucha) [10]

All were along the trail at Yanacocha.

214. Slaty Brush-Finch (Atlapetes schistaceus) [10]

All were around Guango Lodge, mainly along the Papallacta Road.

215. Bananaquit (Coereba flaveola) [25]

Seen only along the lower portions of the Loreto Road.

216. Cinereous Conebill (Conirostrum cinereum) [32]

Seen above Quito and at Yanacocha, and along the Papallacta Road near and at the Papallacta Pass.

217. Blue-backed Conebill (Conirostrum sitticolor) [7]

A few were at Yanacocha and several were at Guango Lodge.

218. Capped Conebill (Conirostrum albifrons) [3]

One was at Guango Lodge and at least two were at Cabanas San Isidro.

219. Magpie Tanager (Cissopis leveriana) [5]

All were seen fairly well along the lower end of the Loreto Road.

220. Grass-green Tanager (Chlorornis riefferii) [4]

Seen only in the Guacamayos area.

221. White-shouldered Tanager (Tachyphonus luctuosus) [1]

A male was seen along the lower elevations of the Loreto Road.

222. Common Bush-Tanager (Chlorospingus ophthalmicus) [13]

Most were at Cabanas San Isidro and the Guacamayos area, with a few at the upper elevations of the Loreto Road.

223. Yellow-throated Bush-Tanager (Chlorospingus flavigularis) [2]

Seen along the lower elevations of the Loreto Road.

224. Gray-hooded Bush-Tanager (Cnemoscopus rubrirostris) [10]

Most were at and near Guango Lodge, with two farther east along the Papallacta Road near Cujuca.

*225. Black-capped Hemispingus (Hemispingus atropileus) [6]

All were along the road at Guango Lodge.

226. Superciliaried Hemispingus (Hemispingus superciliaris) [1]

Only seen along the trail at Yanacocha.

*227. Black-eared Hemispingus (Hemispingus melanotis) [4]

Two were seen briefly at Guango Lodge and two were seen better at Cabanas San Isidro.

*228. Rufous-crested Tanager (Creurgops verticalis) [2]

Seen well near Rio Verde on the way from Puyo to Tena.

229. Silver-beaked Tanager (Ramphocelus carbo) [28]

Most were along the lower elevations of the Loreto Road, with two near Rio Verde and two more along the road from Tena to Cosanga.

230. Blue-gray Tanager (Thraupis episcopus) [18]

Most were along the Loreto Road, with a few at Cabanas San Isidro and two at Rio Verde and two along the road from Cosanga to Baeza.

231. Palm Tanager (Thraupis palmarum) [10]

Most were along the Loreto Road with two at Rio Verde and two along the road from Cosanga to Baeza. Less numerous than expected.

232. Blue-and-yellow Tanager (Thraupis bonariensis) [5]

Seen at Yanacocha, Guango Lodge, and along the Papallacta Road between Quito and Papallacta.

233. Hooded Mountain-Tanager (Buthraupis montana) [6]

Most were at Guango Lodge where we had good views. Two were farther east along the Papallacta Road at Cujuca.

234. Black-chested Mountain-Tanager (Buthraupis eximia) [1h]

Heard only near Papallacta.

235. Lacrimose Mountain-Tanager (Anisognathus lacrymosus) [3]

All were along the road near Guango Lodge.

236. Scarlet-bellied Mountain-Tanager (Anisognathus igniventris) [27]

Most were along the trail at Yanacocha. One was at Guango Lodge and one was near Papallacta.

237. Blue-winged Mountain-Tanager (Anisognathus somptuosus) [12]

Two were along the Papallacta Road near Cujuca. Most were near Cabanas San Isidro, with one along the upper portion of the Loreto Road.

*238. Yellow-throated Tanager (Iridosornis analis) [1]

Seen by a few along the steep mud trail near the upper portion of the Loreto Road.

239. Buff-breasted Mountain-Tanager (Dubusia taeniata) [5]

All were at Guango Lodge, where they were most easily located initially by their distinctive songs.

240. Fawn-breasted Tanager (Pipraeidea melanonota) [9]

Two were at Guango Lodge, one near Cujuca, three at Cabanas San Isidro, and three at the upper end of the Loreto Road.

241. Thick-billed Euphonia (Euphonia laniirostris) [2]

Both were along the middle portion of the Loreto Road.

242. Golden-rumped Euphonia (Euphonia cyanocephala) [2]

A male and female were seen well by some along the road from Cosanga to Baeza.

*243. Bronze-green Euphonia (Euphonia mesochrysa) [4]

All were seen fairly well along the Loreto Road.

244. Orange-bellied Euphonia (Euphonia xanthogaster) [10]

Most were along the upper and middle portions of the Loreto Road, with two at Cabanas San Isidro.

*245. Chestnut-breasted Chlorophonia (Chlorophonia pyrrhophrys) [1]

A single female seen in the flock by the gazebo at Cabanas San Isidro, seen by Allen and possibly others.

246. Blue-naped Chlorophonia (Chlorophonia cyanea) [1]

A female was seen along the Loreto Road.

247. Orange-eared Tanager (Chlorochrysa calliparaea) [2]

Both were along the middle of the Loreto Road among the several tanager flocks.

248. Turquoise Tanager (Tangara mexicana) [1]

Seen among the tanager flocks along the Loreto Road.

249. Paradise Tanager (Tangara chilensis) [38]

The first one was at Guango Lodge, but did not provide very good views. Another was along the road from Tena to Cosanga. Most were along the Loreto Road, where they were with the tanager flocks. Some may have seen more than this.

250. Green-and-gold Tanager (Tangara schrankii) [6]

Five were along the Loreto Road, and one was at Cabanas San Isidro on our way out.

251. Golden Tanager (Tangara arthus) [5]

All were among the tanager flocks along the Loreto Road.

252. Saffron-crowned Tanager (Tangara xanthocephala) [26]

Seen at all middle elevation locations, including near Cujuca, Cabanas San Isidro where they were most common, the Loreto Road where there were only two, and along the road from Cosanga to Baeza.

253. Golden-eared Tanager (Tangara chrysotis) [3]

All were among the tanager flocks along the Loreto Road.

254. Flame-faced Tanager (Tangara parzudakii) [8]

Most were at Cabanas San Isidro. One was along the road from Cosanga to Baeza.

255. Yellow-bellied Tanager (Tangara xanthogastra) [1]

Seen along the road from Tena to Cosanga.

256. Spotted Tanager (Tangara punctata) [12]

All were among the tanager flocks along the Loreto Road.

257. Bay-headed Tanager (Tangara gyrola) [42]

Most were among the tanager flocks along the Loreto Road. Two were along the road from Tena to Cosanga.

258. Golden-naped Tanager (Tangara ruficervix) [6]

Two each at Cabanas San Isidro, the Loreto Road, and along the road from Cosanga to Baeza.

259. Blue-necked Tanager (Tangara cyanicollis) [14]

Seen in small numbers at most mid-elevation areas, including near Cujuca, along the road from Tena to Cosanga, at Cabanas San Isidro, along the Loreto Road, and along the road from Cosanga to Baeza.

260. Beryl-spangled Tanager (Tangara nigroviridis) [11]

Four were near Cujuca on the east slope of the Papallacta Road. Others were at Cabanas San Isidro and one was along the Loreto Road.

261. Blue-and-black Tanager (Tangara vassorii) [5]

Three were at Yanacocha, and one each near Cujuca and Cabanas San Isidro.

262. Black-capped Tanager (Tangara heinei) [5]

All were at Cabanas San Isidro at various locations and days.

*263. Golden-collared Honeycreeper (Iridophanes pulcherrima) [1]

One flew across the road from behind us and was briefly glimpsed by some as it landed in the peppershrike tree along the road from Cosanga to Baeza.

264. Black-faced Dacnis (Dacnis lineata) [5]

All were among the tanager flocks along the Loreto Road.

265. Blue Dacnis (Dacnis cayana) [1]

Seen by Allen, and possibly others, at the high end of the Loreto Road.

266. Green Honeycreeper (Chlorophanes spiza) [1]

Seen with one of the tanager flocks along the Loreto Road. It was surprising it wasn’t more common.

267. Purple Honeycreeper (Cyanerpes caeruleus) [8]

All were among the tanager flocks along the Loreto Road.

268. Plumbeous Sierra-Finch (Phrygilus unicolor) [4]

All were in the area of Papallacta, in paramo habitat as expected.

269. Chestnut-bellied Seedeater (Sporophila castaneiventris) [1]

Seen, and heard singing, near Rio Verde along the road from Puyo to Cosanga.

270. Chestnut-bellied (Lesser) Seed-Finch (Oryzoborus angolensis) [1]

One was seen and heard singing at the lowest end of the Loreto Road.

271. Band-tailed Seedeater (Catamenia analis) [4]

Two were near Quito and two were along the Papallacta Road between Quito and Papallacta.

272. Plain-colored Seedeater (Catamenia inornata) [2]

Both were along the trail at Yanacocha.

273. White-sided Flower-piercer (Diglossa albilatera) [5]

Most were at Cabanas San Isidro. One was near Cujuca on the east slope of the Papallacta Road.

274. Glossy Flower-piercer (Diglossa lafresnayii) [9]

Most were at Cabanas San Isidro. Three were at Yanacocha, mostly heard giving their distinctive song.

275. Black Flower-piercer (Diglossa humeralis) [7]

Most were at and near Yanacocha, with one along the Papallacta Road between Quito and Papallacta.

*276. Deep-blue (Golden-eyed) Flower-piercer (Diglossa glauca) [7}

All were along the Loreto Road, but none were very close.

277. Bluish Flower-piercer (Diglossa caerulescens) [4]

Most were in the Cabanas San Isidro area. One was heard at SierrAzul.

278. Masked Flower-piercer (Diglossopis cyanea) [13]

Most were at Cabanas San Isidro. One was at Yanacocha and two were along the Loreto Road.

279. Golden-bellied (Southern Yellow) Grosbeak (Pheucticus chrysogaster) [1]

Seen well along the trail at Yanacocha.

*280. Yellow-shouldered Grosbeak (Parkerthraustes humeralis) [1]

Seen well along the Loreto Road.

281. Buff-throated Saltator (Saltator maximus) [1]

Seen along the road near Rio Verde.

282. Grayish Saltator (Saltator coerulescens) [2]

Both were along the Loreto Road.

283. Russet-backed Oropendola (Psarocolius angustifrons) [39]

Most were at Cabanas San Isidro and the Loreto Road. Several were at SierrAzul and others were along the road from Cosanga to Baeza.

284. Scarlet-rumped (Subtropical) Cacique (Cacicus [uropygialis] microrhynchus) [16]

All were at Cabanas San Isidro and the Guacamayos area.

285. (Northern) Mountain Cacique (Cacicus chrysonotus) [20]

All were in the Cabanas San Isidro area, including SierrAzul.