VENEZUELA
17th March, 1991 to 6th April, 1991
David, Doreen & John Cooper.
All the photographs were taken by ourselves although we only had film cameras and not digital. Because of the small telephoto lens we had with us, it would be advisable to increase the magnificantion on the computer being used to 125X or even 150X in order to show a larger image of the bird species involved.
ITINERARY
17th March Mid evening arrival, picked up our hired car and drove to Maracay arriving about mid-night, stayed overnight at the Hotel Alomo.
18th March Left hotel before dawn and spent the whole morning and early afternoon birding the Choroni Road. Returned to Maracay and booked into the Hotel Maracay. Visited the Biological Station at Rancho Grande and then returned to the hotel where we birded the evening on the golf course. A total of 75 species seen.
19th March Birded the Ocumare Road including the trail at the back of Rancho Grande end at the Km 19 Bridge. Visited the coast before returning back to the hotel in late afternoon. During the evening we worked the dry riverbed opposite our hotel. This area had recently been burnt and was attracting a larger variety of birds than expected. A total of 101 species seen with 54 new for the trip.
20th March Morning birding at Km 19 bridge, and Rancho Grande. We then departed travelling to Barquisimeto, where we booked into the Motel Paris and spent the evening birding in the nearby desert. A total of 64 species of which 19 were new for the trip.
21st March Spent the early morning birding the desert area and then moved on down Highway 1 to the La Azulita turnoff, where we spent the afternoon birding from the road until moving on to El Vigia, where we booked into a local hotel just over the bridge. A total of 77 species were seen today, including 30 new for the trip.
22nd March Spent most of the day birding the Encontrados Loop with an afternoon visit to La Fria. We then returned to the hotel at El Vigra. A total of 62 species seen of which 27 were new for the trip.
23rd March Morning spent along the La Azulita Road with a visit to the U.L.A.F. forest. We then drove to Tabay where we booked into a hotel, and then made our way up to the Pico Humboldt Trail for the rest of the day. A total of 59 species seen of which 19 were new for the trip.
24th March All morning on the Pico Humboldt Trail, then ascending to the paramo region birding around the Pico Aguila Pools before descending to the Hotel Santo Domingo. A total of 56 species of which 30 were new.
25th March Morning birding the entrance to the Sierra Nevada N.Pk. moving up to Laguna Mucubajoi before descending again to visit the San Isidro Road before returning to the Hotel Santo Domingo. 48 species with 18 new.
26th March Morning along the San Isidro Road with an afternoon visit to Los Frailes and the evening spent at the entrance to the Sierra Nevada N.Pk. 47 species seen of which 10 were new.
27th March A quick stop at the river at Mitusus followed by a walk up the La Soledad Road where the only rain of the trip was very heavy and forced us to abandon this site. Moved down to the Rio Barragan, where we spent a couple of hours before driving onto Libertrad on the way to Bruzual Bridge. A total of 121 species were seen of which 36 were new.
28th March Early morning at the Bruzual Bridge with a slow drive north to Tinaco where we booked into a small hotel. A total of 83 species were seen of which 16 were new.
29th March Drove south to Hato Pinero Ranch birding a large lagoon there in the afternoon. 120 species seen with 28 new for the trip.
30th March Spent the morning birding the dry forest with the afternoon at a marshy area with a superb evening of spotlighting. A total of 133 species of which 21 were new for the trip.
31st March Morning birding the riverine forest with the afternoon at several large lagoons with huge concentrations of water birds present and another good evening spent spotlighting. 135 species of which 6 were new.
1st April Left Hato Pinero having seen 180 species in 3 days and made our way back to Maracay spending the afternoon birding the road and the trail at Portuchello Pass just above Ranch0 Grande. 103 species with 6 new ones.
2nd April All morning on the trails at the back of Rancho Grande then returning to Hotel Maracay to bird the nearby riverbed. A total of 73 species seen, including 9 new ones.
3rd April All morning on the Choroni Road with a prolonged visit to the old cocoa plantation at La Plantas with an early afternoon visit to the coast before returning back to the hotel to bird the golf course in the evening. A total of 81 species seen including 7 new ones.
4th April Morning visit to the lakeside at Bella Vista followed by a drive to Guatapo N.Pk., where we spent the rest of the day. Booked into a hotel at Altogracia. A total of 95 species seen of which 8 were new.
5th April All morning along the Agua Blanca Trail with a late afternoon drive back through Caracas to stay in a hotel at Macuto. A total of 59 species were seen of which 8 were new.
6th April Spent the early morning at Hotel Macuto before departing to the Airport. 15 species were seen.
Views of the Llanos.
View of the Andes.
View taken at Bella Vista.
View taken from the lookout at Guatapo.
Capybyra.
Squirrel in the Andes.
Collared Peccary with young.
Systematic Bird List
Red-legged Tinamou - Crypturellus erythropus spencei A single individual at Hato Pinero on the 30th was flushed from the edge of a track, where it froze, allowing excellent views for around five minutes, until it quietly walked off into the surrounding dry forest. In del Hoyo et al. (1992) it discusses the complex taxonomic treatment of this and other closely related forms including the fact that C. e. spencei. has been ascribed to other species and Red-legged Tinamou has sometimes been included as part of Slaty-breasted Tinamou C. boucardi seen in Costa Rica. However, Clements (2000) adopts the same treatment as del Hoyo et al. (1992).
Least Grebe - Tachybaptus dominicus speciosus A single individual was seen on a small pool opposite the Hotel Morucco at Santo Domingo on the 25th and c.1,000 were seen forming large rafts at Bella Vista on the 4th.
Brown Pelican - Pelecanus occidentalis occidentalis Recorded at coastal locations with 8 seen at Ocumare, 5 at Choroni and up to 10 on two dates near Caracas Airport.
Brown Pelican on the coast at Ocumare.
Brown Booby - Sula leucogaster leucogaster Good views of 2 were obtained from Ocumare on the 19th.
Neotropic Cormorant - Phalacrocorax brasilianus brasilianus Seen on nine dates in fair numbers with a daily maximum of 30 seen on the Hato Pinero Ranch on the 31st.
Anhinga - Anhinga anhinga anhinga Up to 5 were seen on eight dates with daily maximum numbers recorded at Hato Pinero on the 1st.
Magnificent Frigatebird - Fregata magnificens Totals noted of 18 at Ocumare, 4 at Choroni and up to 10 on two dates near Caracas Airport.
Magnificent Frigatebirds near Caracass Airport.
Whistling Heron - Syrigma sibilatrix fostersmithi Seen on six dates in the Llanos with a daily maximum of 12 recorded at Hato Pinero.
Whistling Heron with Sharp Tailed Ibises & Southern Lapwings at Hato Pinero.
Capped Heron - Pilherodius pileatus Totals noted of 3 along the Encontrados road, 2 south of Barinas and up to 3 daily at Hato Pinero.
Capped Heron along the Encontrados road.
Capped Heron south of Barinas.
Great Blue Heron - Ardea herodias occidentalis Singles seen at the Encontrados road, south of Barinas and at Hato Pinero on two dates.
Cocoi (White-necked) Heron - Ardea cocoi Seen on eight dates in suitable areas with a maximum of 8 seen at Hato Pinero.
Cocoi Heron on the river at Hato Pinero.
Great Egret - Ardea alba egretta Seen on twelve dates in large numbers with an estimated daily maximum of 200 seen at Hato Pinero.
Little Blue Heron - Egretta caerulea Seen on seven dates with a daily maximum of 40 at Bella Vista on the 4th.
Little Blue Heron at Bella Vista.
Snowy Egret - Egretta thula brewsteri Seen on six dates with a daily maximum of 12 seen on pools south of Barinas.
Cattle Egret - Bubulcus ibis ibis Seen virtually daily in large numbers.
Striated Heron - Butorides striatus striatus Seen on six days with a daily maximum of 30 seen at Bella Vista on the 4th.
Black-crowned Night-Heron - Nycticorax nycticorax hoactli Up to 25 were seen daily at Hato Pinero and 6 were seen at Bella Vista.
Yellow-crowned Night-Heron - Nyctanassa violacea cayennensis C Up to 10 were seen at Hato Pinero and 3 were seen at Bella Vista.
Yellow Crowned Night-Heron at Hato Pinero.
Boat-billed Heron - Cochlearius cochlearius cochlearius Up to 3 were seen on two dates at Hato Pinero some of which were spotlighted on small pools after dark.
Boat Billed Heron at Hato Pinero.
Rufescent Tiger-Heron - Tigrisoma lineatum lineatum Seen on six dates in the Llanos with a daily maximum of up to 30 seen daily at Hato Pinero. Superb.
Rufescent Tiger-Heron in the Llanos.
Wood Stork - Mycteria Americana A single individual was seen along the Encontrados road and a flock of 400 were seen at Hato Pinero proving an impressive sight in flight.
Wood Storks at Hato Pinero.
Maguari Stork - Ciconia maguari A single individual was seen at Encontrados and 2 were seen on two dates at Hato Pinero.
Maguari Stork at Hato Pinero.
Jabiru - Jabiru mycteria A group of 3 were seen at Encontrados and seen daily at Hato Pinero where we saw a magnificent 500 on the 31st.
Jabiru at Hato Pinero.
Buff-necked Ibis - Theristicus caudatus caudatus Up to 10 were seen daily at Hato Pinero.
Buff Necked Ibises at Hato Pinero
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Sharp-tailed Ibis - Cercibis oxycerca We saw 3 at Bruzual Bridge and 6 at Hato Pinero on two dates.
Sharp Tailed Ibises at Hato Pinero.
Green Ibis - Mesembrinibis cayennensis A single individual was seen south of Barinas and up to 6 were seen daily at Hato Pinero.
Bare-faced Ibis - Phimosus infuscatus berlepschi We saw 200 at Encontrados, 50 daily in the Llanos and 60 at Bella Vista.
Bare Faced Ibis at Hato Pinero.
White Ibis - Eudocimus albus Up to 2 were seen on two dates at Hato Pinero.
White Ibis at Hato Pinero.
Scarlet Ibis - Eudocimus ruber Up to 40 were seen daily in the Llanos proving better than expected.
Scarlet Ibises at Hato Pinero.
Glossy Ibis - Plegadis falcinellus Up to 6 were seen daily in the Llanos and 40 were seen at Bella Vista.
Roseate Spoonbill - Ajaia ajaja Up to 15 were seen daily in the Llanos.
Horned Screamer - Anhima cornuta A total of 10 were seen on the Encontrados loop and up to 6 were seen daily at Hato Pinero.
A pair of Horned Screamers at Hato Pinero.
Northern Screamer - Chauna chavaria Two pairs were seen along the road between Santa Barbara and Encontrados.
A distant Northern Screamer taken through the telescope along the Encontrados road.
Fulvous Whistling-Duck - Dendrocygna bicolor We saw 30 on pools between Barinas and San Carlos and 70 at Bella Vista.
White-faced Whistling-Duck - Dendrocygna viduata Up to 200 were seen daily in the Llanos and at Bella Vista.
Black-bellied Whistling-Duck - Dendrocygna autumnalis Seen at Encontrados, the Llanos and Bella Vista with a daily maximum of 600 seen at Hato Piner.
Part of a large flock of Black Bellied Whistling Ducks at Hato Pinero.
Muscovy Duck - Cairina moschata Up to 10 were seen daily at Hato Pinero.
Torrent Duck - Merganetta armata colombiana A pair, were watched at the entrance to the Sierra Nevada NP around 5km above Santo Domingo seemingly teaching a near fully-grown juvenile to swim on the 25th and another pair were seen from the smaller bridge crossing the river at Mitusus on the 27th. Superb.
A very distant drake Torrent Duck on the river at Mitusus.
Speckled Teal - Anas flavirostris altipetens
A pair, were seen on Lake Mucubajoi on the 25th.
Blue-winged Teal - Anas discors
We saw 40 between Barinas and San Carlos and 6 at Bella Vista.
Masked Duck - Oxyura dominica
A female was seen on a small pool south of Barinas on the 27th and a male was seen on a pool between Barinas and San Carlos on the 28th.
A pair, were seen on Lake Mucubajoi on the 25th.
Blue-winged Teal - Anas discors
We saw 40 between Barinas and San Carlos and 6 at Bella Vista.
Masked Duck - Oxyura dominica
A female was seen on a small pool south of Barinas on the 27th and a male was seen on a pool between Barinas and San Carlos on the 28th.
Black Vulture - Coragyps atratus brasiliensis
This species proved very common being seen daily.
This species proved very common being seen daily.
Black Vultures.
Lesser Yellow-headed Vulture - Cathartes burrovianus Singles were identified at Encontrados and Libertrad south of Barinas.
King Vulture - Sarcoramphus papa A total of 7 were seen on three dates at Hato Pinero including a bird spotlighted at roost and 1 was seen at Guatapo NP.
King Vulture soaring over Hato Pinero.
Osprey - Pandion haliaetus haliaetus We saw 2 at Bruzual Bridge, 2 near Valencia and a single individual at Bella Vista.
Grey-headed Kite - Leptodon cayanensis cayanensis A superb adult was seen overhead on the drive out to Hato Pinero on the 29th.
Swallow-tailed Kite - Elanoides forficatus yetapa Small numbers were seen at La Azulita, La Fria and Guatapo with a daily maximum of 8 seen on the 4th.
Swallow Tailed Kite low overhead at Guatapo.
Pearl Kite - Gampsonyx swainsonii leonae A pair were seen along Highway 1 on the drive south to El Vigia with 4 seen in the Bruzual Bridge area and another 4 on the drive down to Hato Pinero.
Pearl Kite near Bruzual Bridge.
White-tailed Kite - Elanus leucurus leucurus Seen daily whilst at Encontrados, the Llanos and Bella Vista with a daily maximum of 8 on the 28th.
Snail Kite - Rostrhamus sociabilis sociabilis A total of 6 were seen along the Encontrados road.
Snail Kite along the Encontrados road.
Plumbeous Kite - Ictinia plumbea
A total of 7 were seen in the vicinity of the heliport at Guatapo in the late afternoon of the 4th.
Plumbeous Kite at Guatapo in the early evenight light, and through a telescope.
Plain-breasted Hawk - Accipiter ventralis A single individual was seen from the Guatapo viewpoint on the 4th.
Crane Hawk - Geranospiza caerulescens caerulescens C Up to 2 were seen on two dates at Hato Pinero. Superb.
Crane Hawk at Hato Pinero.
White Hawk - Leucopternis albicollis albicollis A single individual was seen at Rancho Grande and superb views of 6 were obtained from the Guatapo Viewpoint on the 4th.
Common Black Hawk - Buteogallus anthracinus anthracinus A single individual was seen near La Fria and up to 3 were seen daily at Guatapo.
Great Black Hawk - Buteogallus urubitinga urubitinga Singles were seen near Maracay and at Guatapo and up to 4 were seen daily at Hato Pinero.
Great Black Hawk at Hato Pinero.
Savanna Hawk - Buteogallus meridionalis Up to 30 were seen daily at Encontrados and in the Llanos.
Savannah Hawk along the Encontrados road.
Harris’ Hawk - Parabuteo unicinctus unicinctus A pair were seen on the drive out to Hato Pinero.
Black-collared Hawk - Busarellus nigricollis nigricollis C We saw 12 at Encontrados and up to 6 daily whilst in the Llanos.
Black Collared Hawk at Encontrados.
Black-chested Buzzard-Eagle - Geranoaetus melanoleucus australis A single individual seen at the Pico Aguila Pools and a pair seen at Laguna Mucubajoi.
Grey Hawk - Asturina nitida nitida Singles were seen around Maracay on three dates and 10 were seen at Encontrados.
Grey Hawk at Encontrados.
Roadside Hawk - Buteo magnirostris magnirostris We saw up to 6 on eleven different dates proving to be widespread.
Roadside Hawk.
Broad-winged Hawk - Buteo platypterus platypterus We saw 2 in the University of Loa Andes Forest on the 23rd.
White-rumped Hawk - Buteo leucorrhous A single individual was seen for some time over the ridge at the entrance of the Sierra Nevada Park around 5km north of Santo Domingo.
Short-tailed Hawk - Buteo brachyurus brachyurus A single individual was seen near Maracay on the 2nd.
White-tailed Hawk - Buteo albicaudatus colonus Singles were seen near Maracay and Barquisimeto and up to 4 were seen daily at Hato Pinero.
Adult White Tailed Hawk over Hato Pinero.
Zone-tailed Hawk - Buteo albonotatus Singles were seen at La Azulita and on two dats whilst at Hato Pinero.
Crested Caracara - Caracara plancus cheriway Seen on nine dates with a daily maximum of 20 seen on the drive out to Hato Pinero on the 29th.
Crested Caracara at Hato Pinero.
Yellow-headed Caracara - Milvago chimachima cordatus Seen on twelve dates in good numbers with a daily maximum of 40 seen in the Bruzual Bridge area.
Yellow Headed Caracara feeding on the road near Bruzual Bridge.
Laughing Falcon - Herpetotheres cachinnans cachinnans We saw several at Encontrados and up to 4 daily at Hato Pinero.
Laughing Falcon at Encontrados.
American Kestrel - Falco sparverius Seen on eleven dates in small numbers with a daily maximum of 6 seen on the 23rd.
Aplomado Falcon - Falco femoralis femoralis The first was seen chasing a large Bat at Bruzual Bridge, the second was seen roosting in a large tree at Hato Pinero and finally a pair were seen perched close to the track at the exit to Hato Pinero.
Pair of Aplomado Falcons at Hato Pinero.
Rufous-vented Chachalaca - Ortalis ruficauda
We saw 5 along the dry riverbed opposite the Hotel Maracay, up to 40 daily at Hato Pinero and remarkably 2 were seen to go to roost at the rear of the Hotel Macuto in the centre of a busy seaside resort near Caracas Airport.
Rufous Vented Chachalaca high in a tree in a dry riverbed opposite Hotel Maracay.
Band-tailed Guan - Penelope argyrotis argyrotis Pairs were seen where the road leading up to Rancho Grande first enters good forest and along the trail which winds up the hillside behind Rancho Grande itself.
Yellow-knobbed Curassow - Crax daubentoni C Up to 12 were seen daily at Hato Pinero proving quite approachable as totally unmolested at this site. Superb.
Yellow Knobbed Curassow at Hato Pinero.
Crested Bobwhite - Colinus cristatus A party of 9 were seen in the desert at Barquisimeto and up to 6 were seen daily at Hato Pinero.
Crested Bobwhite in the desert at Barquisimeto.
Hoatzin - Opisthocomus hoazin
Up to 200 were seen daily at Hato Pinero often being seen in large flocks.
Flock of Hoatzins roosting at Hato Pinero.
Hoatzins at Hato Pinero.
Limpkin - Aramus guarauna guarauna Seen at Encontrados and in the Llanos with a daily maximum of 15 seen at Hato Pinero.
Limpkin along the Encontrados road.
Grey-necked Wood-Rail - Aramides cajanea cajanea Up to 4 were seen daily at Hato Pinero.
Grey Necked Wood-Rail in a forest clearing at Hato Pinero.
American Purple Gallinule - Porphyrula martinica C We saw 15 at Encontrados and an impressive 100 at Bella Vista.
American Purple Gallinule at Bella Vista.
Common Moorhen - Gallinula chloropus We saw 6 at Encontrados, 30 at Bruzual Bridge and an estimated 1,000 at Bella Vista.
Sunbittern - Eurypyga helias helias C A single individual was seen north of Bruzual Bridge and up to 8 were seen daily at Hato Pinero. Superb.
Sunbittern catching butterflies around a pool at Bruzual Bridge.
Wattled Jacana - Jacana jacana Very common at Encontrados, the Llanos areas and Bella Vista.
Wattled Jacanas on the Llanos'
Black-necked Stilt - Himantopus mexicanus mexicanus Seen on four dates in the Llanos and an estimated 200 at Bella Vista.
Black Necked Stilt at Belle Vista.
Double-striped Thick-knee - Burhinus bistriatus vocifer Up to 5 were seen on two dates at Hato Pinero.
Double Striped Thicknee at Hato Pinero.
Pied Lapwing - Vanellus cayanus A pair and a single were seen from the Bruzual Bridge on the 28th.
Southern Lapwing - Vanellus chilensis cayennensis Seen at Encontrados, Santo Domingo and the Llanos with a daily maximum of 30 seen on the 29th.
Southern Lapwing at Hato Pinero.
Andean Snipe - Gallinago jamesoni A single individual was flushed twice from the grassy hillside between the two Pico Aguila Pools on the 24th appearing Woodcock-like in flight.
Greater Yellowlegs - Tringa melanoleuca We identified at least 2 at Bella Vista.
Lesser Yellowlegs - Tringa flavipes We saw up to 2 daily at Hato Pinero and 60 at Bella Vista.
Solitary Sandpiper - Tringa solitaria Seen on eight dates proving widespread with a daily maximum of 8 seen at Hato Piner.
Solitary Sandpiper at Hato Pinero.
Spotted Sandpiper - Actitis hypoleucos Seen on five dates whilst in the Llanos with a daily maximum of 4 seen on the 29th.
Least Sandpiper - Calidris minutilla We saw this species in small numbers in the Lllanos and at Bella Vista.
Least Sandpiper in the Llanos.
Stilt Sandpiper - Calidris himantopus Seen at Bella Vista with a party of 8 seen there on the 4th. Regarded as scarce in Venezuela especially away from the coast.
Laughing Gull - Larus atricilla We saw 2 off Macuto on the 4th.
Adult Laughing Gull overhead on the coast at Macuto.
Yellow-billed Tern - Sterna superciliaris A total of 4 were seen at Bruzual Bridge.
Large-billed Tern - Phaetusa simplex simplex We saw 1 south of Barinas, 4 at the Bruzual Bridge, 1 at Hato Pinero and 5 at Bella Vista. Very impressive.
Black Skimmer - Rynchops niger niger We saw 20 at the Bruzual Bridge, 1 at Hato Pinero and 1 at Bella Vista.
Bare-eyed Pigeon - Columba corensis We saw 3 in flight to the west of Barquisimeto on the 21st.
Band-tailed Pigeon - Columba fasciata albilinea Up to 15 were seen daily whilst in the Andes.
Pale-vented Pigeon - Columba cayennensis andersoni C Seen on eight dates in small numbers with a daily maximum of 8 seen at Hato Pinero.
Ruddy Pigeon - Columba subvinacea A single individual was seen along the Choroni road on the 18th.
Eared Dove - Zenaida auriculate Seen in fair numbers at Encontrados and in the Llanos on as total of seven dates.
Common Ground-Dove - Columbina passerina albivitta Seen on seven dates in lowland areas.
Plain-breasted Ground-Dove - Columbina minuta minuta Up to 6 were seen daily at Hato Pinero.
Ruddy Ground-Dove - Columbina talpacoti rufipennis Common being seen on twelve dates.
Ruddy Ground Dove along the coastal belt.
Scaled Dove - Columbina squammata ridgwayi Seen in large numbers on twelve dates.
Scaled Dove at Hato Pinero.
Blue Ground-Dove - Claravis pretiosa A total of 4 were seen alongside the river at Hato Pinero on the 31st.
White-tipped Dove - Leptotila verreauxi verreaux Seen on twelve dates in good numbers.
White Tipped Dove in Henri Pittier National Park.
Lined Quail-Dove - Geotrygon linearis A single individual was seen on the trail in front of us behind Rancho Grande. On one occasion it raised its tail high into the air giving itself an incredible appearance.
Military Macaw - Ara militaris militaris C We obtained superb views of 3 different pairs at Guatapo from the viewpoint, the information chalet and the heliport.
Record shots of Military Macaws from the Guatapo look-out.
Scarlet Macaw - Ara macao macao We saw 3 north of Bruzual Bridge and up to 10 daily at Hato Pinero.
Scarlet Macaws at Bruzual Bridge.
Chestnut-fronted Macaw - Ara severa A superb flock of 60 were seen in the early morning around 5km from the Highway 1 turn-off to La Azulita proving to be one of the most memorable sights of the trip and 4 were seen north of Bruzual Bridge.
Scarlet-fronted Parakeet - Aratinga wagleri We saw 4 opposite Rancho Grande and 40 along the La Azulita road.
Brown-throated Parakeet - Aratinga pertinax venezuelae Usually seen in scrub habitat being encountered on ten dates in fair numbers.
White-eared (Maroon-faced) Parakeet - Pyrrhura leucotis emma A total of 12 were seen at Guatapo on the 4th.
Red (Blood)-eared Parakeet - Pyrrhura hoematotis hoematotis We saw up to 6 daily in Henri Pittier NP
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Green-rumped Parrotlet - Forpus passerinus viridissimus Seen on nine dates with a daily maximum of 25 seen at Hato Pinero.
Green Rumped Parrotlet in the desert at Barquisimeto.
Orange-chinned Parakeet - Brotogeris jugularis exsul Seen in fair numbers at widespread localities on five dates.
Blue-headed Parrot - Pionus menstruus menstruus A pair were seen in a fruiting tree near the heliport at Guatapo.
Red-billed Parrot - Pionus sordidus sordidus
A pair were seen just below the Km19 bridge below Rancho Grande in the Henri Pittier NP.
Yellow-crowned Parrot - Amazona ochrocephala ochrocephala
We saw 2 near Maracay, 10 at Bruzual Bridge and up to 10 daily at Hato Pinero.
Yellow Crowned Parrot at Maracay.
Orange-winged Parrot - Amazona amazonica amazonica A pair were seen on the drive south to Hato Pinero.
Squirrel Cuckoo - Piaya cayana Seen on six dates at widespread localities with a daily maximum of 3 seen at Hato Pinero.
Greater Ani - Crotophaga major Up to 4 were seen at Hato Pinero on two dates. Others may have been overlooked.
Smooth-billed Ani - Crotophaga ani C This species proved to be common being seen on nine dates.
Smooth Billed Ani in the grounds of the Hotel Maracay.
Groove-billed Ani - Crotophaga sulcirostris This species proved to be common being seen on seven dates.
Striped Cuckoo - Tapera naevia naevia A single individual was seen at the Rio Barragan on the 27th. Superb.
Tropical Screech-Owl - Otus choliba crucigerus A single individual was seen briefly in response to tape playback at Hato Pinero on the 30th.
Great Horned Owl - Bubo virginianus nacurutu At Hato Pinero we saw 3 on the 29th and 2 on the 31st.
Spectacled Owl - Pulsatrix perspicillata perspicillata A single individual reacted immediately to tape playback at Hato Pinero then allowing prolonged close views. Superb proving to be one of the highlights of the trip.
Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl - Glaucidium brasilianum phalaenoides A single individual was watched in daylight in the desert at Barquisimeto.
Ferruginous Pygmy Owl at Barquisimeto.
Burrowing Owl - Athene cunicularia apurensis We saw 3 stood above their burrows on a raised sandy bank in the desert area west of Barquisimeto.
Burrowing Owl standing in the heat haze in the desert at Barquisimeto.
Striped Owl - Pseudoscops clamator clamator A pair were seen at Hato Pinero on the 30th and a single individual the following evening. Another superb species of Owl.
Short-eared Owl - Asio flammeus pallidicaudus A single individual was seen at Hato Pinero on the 29th.
Great Potoo - Nyctibius grandis At Hato Pinero 2 allowed perched views on the 30th and a single individual was seen in flight the following evening. Their huge eyes have to be seen to be believed.
Common Potoo - Nyctibius griseus griseus We saw 2 in flight together at Hato Pinero on the evening of the 30th.
Lesser Nighthawk - Chordeiles acutipennis acutipennis At Hato Pinero we saw 2 on the 29th and 15 on the 31st.
Lesser Nighthawk found roosting on the ground at Hato Pinero.
Nacunda Nighthawk - Podager nacunda minor A total of 4 were seen whilst spotlighting at Hato Pinero. A single individual virtually collided with the spotlight on one occasion. Absolutely stunning.
Band-tailed Nighthawk - Nyctiprogne leucopyga A flock of around 150 were seen over a lake at Hato Pinero on the 29th.
Pauraque - Nyctidromus albicollis albicollis Up to 15 were seen nightly at Hato Pinero.
White-tailed Nightjar - Caprimulgus cayennensis cayennensis Up to 3 were seen nightly in the grasslands at Hato Pinero.
Spot-fronted Swift - Cypseloides cherriei We saw 2 which gave excellent views along the Choroni Road on the 18th.
Chestnut-collared Swift - Streptoprocne rutila rutile This smart species was seen well with 60 feeding low over a field just east of Tabay on the 24th and 12 at Rio Barragan on the 27th.
White-collared Swift - Streptoprocne zonaris minor Seen on eight dates in good numbers proving most common at Henri Pittier NP.
Grey-rumped Swift - Chaetura cinereiventris Seen on ten dates in the north of the country with the best views obtained in the afternoon from the Portucello Pass Trail just above Rancho Grande with a daily maximum of 60 seen there on the 1st.
Vaux’s Swift – Chaetura vauxi JFC identified a single individual along the Choroni road on the 18th.
White-tipped Swift - Aeronautes montivagus montivagus A party of 5 were seen high over the Km19 bridge below Rancho Grande on the 20th and singles were seen on three dates at various locations in the Henri Pittier NP on our return there.
Pygmy Swift - Tachornis furcate Having failed to find any at the La Fria football pitch we were pleased to find a pair breeding in the palms at the back of the Hotel located at traffic lights just west of the bridge at the eastern end of El Vigia. They were successfully twitched by another group of British birders.
Fork-tailed Palm-Swift - Tachornis squamata semota Up to 50 were seen at the Hotel Maracay on three dates and 5 were seen at Tinaco on the 29th.
Rufous-breasted Hermit - Glaucis hirsuta hirsute A single individual was seen at the old Coffee Plantation at La Plantas along the Choroni Road on the 3rd and up to 5 were seen daily at Guatapo NP including a juvenile being swallowed headfirst by a lizard having been taken from a nest.
Sooty-capped Hermit - Phaethornis augusti augusti Up to 4 were seen on three dates in the Henri Pittier NP being mainly encountered along the Choroni Road and a single individual was seen near La Azulita.
Stripe-throated Hermit - Phaethornis striigularis ignobilis We saw 2 along the Agua Blanca trail at Guatapo NP.
White-necked Jacobin - Florisuga mellivora mellivora Only males were seen with 1 seen along the Choroni road, 2 at the La Soledad road and 1 at Guatapo. Superb.
Black-throated Mango - Anthracothorax nigricollis Singles were seen on five dates at widespread localities.
Ruby-topaz Hummingbird - Chrysolampis mosquitus We saw 2 in the dry forest at Hato Pinero. Superb.
Blue-tailed Emerald - Chlorostilbon mellisugus We saw 2 on two dates at the riverbed opposite the Hotel Maracay and singles were seen at Hato Pinero on two dates.
Golden-tailed Sapphire - Chrysuronia oenone oenone Up to 3 were seen along the San Isidro road on two dates and 4 were seen along the La Soledad road.
Male Golden Tailed Sapphire along the San Isidro road.
White-tailed Goldenthroat - Polytmus guainumbi guainumbi A single individual was seen at Bruzual Bridge.
Buffy Hummingbird - Leucippus fallax Up to 6 were seen on two dates in the desert to the west of Barquisimeto.
Buffy Hummingbird in the desert at Barquisimeto.
Rufous-tailed Hummingbird - Amazilia tzacatl fuscicaudata We saw 4 below La Azulita.
Rufous Tailed Hummingbird at La Azulita.
Glittering-throated Emerald - Polyerata fimbriate We saw 3 at the Henri Pittier NP, 1 at Libertrad north of Bruzual Bridge and up to 4 were seen on two dates at Hato Pinero.
Steely-vented Hummingbird - Saucerottia saucerrottei We saw 2 at the start of the La Soledad road.
Copper-rumped Hummingbird - Saucerottia tobaci A single individual was seen in the dry forest at Hato Pinero.
White-vented Plumeleteer - Chalybura buffonii Fair numbers were seen at the Henri Pittier NP, the La Soledad road and at Guatapo.
Speckled Hummingbird - Adelomyia melanogenys We saw 2 daily at the San Isidro road.
Violet-fronted Brilliant - Heliodoxa leadbeateri leadbeateri We saw 2 along the Choroni road and a single individual at Rancho Grande.
Violet-chested Hummingbird - Sternoclyta cyanopectus A single individual was seen along the Agua Blanca trail at Guatapo.
Buff-tailed Coronet - Boissonneaua flavescens flavescens A pair put on a fine show in a clearing around half-way along the San Isidro road.
Mountain Velvetbreast - Lafresnaya lafresnayi greenewalti A single individual was seen in the pines at the ULAF forest on the 23rd.
Collared Inca - Coeligena torquata
A single individual was seen in the Pico Humboldt Dormitory Clearing and 4 were seen along the San Isidro road. Superb.
Collared Inca in the Pico Humboldt clearing.
Orange-throated Sunangel - Heliangelus mavors We saw 10 along the San Isidro road and 2 at the entrance to the Sierra Nevada NP.
Orange Throated Sunangel along the San Isidro road.
Booted Racket-tail - Ocreatus underwoodii We saw 3 along the San Isidro road being smaller than expected. Superb.
Long-tailed Sylph - Aglaiocercus kingi margarethae / caudatus We saw singles of margarethae on four dates in the Henri Pittier NP and 4 caudatus along the Pico Humboldt Trail. Superb.
Wedge-billed Hummingbird - Augastes geoffroyi geoffroyi A single individual was seen around the Banana trees at the end of the Guacmeyo Trail behind Rancho Grande in the Henri Pittier NP. Superb.
Collared Trogon - Trogon collaris exopatus Up to 2 were seen on our first three dates at Henri Pittier NP.
Male Collared Trogon in Henri Pittier National Park.
Masked Trogon - Trogon personatus personatus A pair were seen along the Pico Humboldt Trail.
White-tipped Quetzal - Pharomachrus fulgidus fulgidus A single individual was seen on the trails behind Rancho Grande on the 19th and 4 were seen all perched for some time in a single tree opposite the entrance to Rancho Grande on the 20th. Superb.
Golden-headed Quetzal - Pharomachrus auriceps A single individual was seen along the Pico Humboldt trail on the 24th.
Belted Kingfisher - Ceryle alcyon A single individual was seen at Hato Pinero.
Ringed Kingfisher - Ceryle torquata torquata Seen daily whilst in the Llanos with a daily maximum of 3 seen at Hato Pinero.
Ringed Kingfisher at Hato Pinero.
Amazon Kingfisher - Chloroceryle amazona amazon Seen on five dates in the Llanos with a daily maximum of 2 seen on the pools near Libertrad south of Barinas.
Male Amazon Kingfisher on the pool near Libertrad.
Green Kingfisher - Chloroceryle Americana Seen in the Llanos and at Bella Vista with a daily maximum of 3 seen at Hato Pinero.
Male Green Kingfisher at Hato Pinero.
Pale-headed Jacamar - Brachygalba goeringi Singles were seen at the Rio Barragan and at Hato Pinero giving the appearance of a giant Hummingbird at times.
A record shot of a Pale Headed Jacamar sat very high up at Rio Barragan.
Rufous-tailed Jacamar - Galbula ruficauda Up to 2 were seen at widespread localities on five dates.
Rufous Tailed Jacamar sat in the forest at Hato Pinero.
Another Rufous Tailed Jacamar sat high in the open at Hato Pinero.
White-necked Puffbird - Notharchus macrorhynchos hyperrynchus A single individual was seen along the Ocumare road on the 19th.
White Necked Puffbird along the Ocumare road.
Russet-throated Puffbird - Hypnelus ruficollis Singles of the double-banded form were seen on two visits to the riverbed opposite the Hotel Maracay and at Hato Pinero, and 2 of the single-banded form were seen at Encontrados.
A record shot of a Russet Throated Puffbird opposite the Hotel Maracay.
Moustached Puffbird - Malacoptila mystacalis We saw 2 along the Agua Blanca trail at Guatapo on the 5th. Superb.
Emerald Toucanet - Aulacorhynchus prasinus albivitta A single individual was seen at its nest-hole in the ULAF forest on the 23rd.
Groove-billed Toucanet - Aulacorhynchus sulcatus sulcatus Up to 4 were seen on four dates along the Ocumare road at Henri Pittier.
Scaled Piculet - Picumnus squamulatus roehli A single individual was seen low down along the Ocumare road in the Henri Pittier NP.
Red-crowned Woodpecker - Melanerpes rubricapillus rubricapillus Very common being seen on ten dates.
Red Crowned Woodpecker at the Llanos.
Smoky-brown Woodpecker - Veniliornis fumigatus reichenbachi C A pair were seen along the trails behind Rancho Grande and a single individual was seen at the summit of the Choroni road the following day.
Red-rumped Woodpecker - Veniliornis kirkii continentalis Singles were seen along both the Ocumare and Choroni roads in the Henri Pittier NP and at Hato Pinero.
Golden-olive Woodpecker - Piculus rubiginosus Singles were seen at the San Isidro road, the La Soledad road and at Portuchello Pass in the Henri Pittier NP and 2 were seen nearby the next day.
Spot-breasted Woodpecker - Colaptes punctigula punctipectus A single individual was seen at Hato Pinero on the 29th.
Lineated Woodpecker - Dryocopus lineatus A single individual was seen at Hato Pinero.
Crimson-crested Woodpecker - Campephilus melanoleucos melanoleucos A pair were seen in small trees near Libertrad south of Barinas on the 27th. Superb.
Bar-winged Cinclodes - Cinclodes fuscus heterurus C We saw 3 along streams flowing into Laguna Mucabujoi in the paramo. Superb.
Bar Winged Cinclodes near Laguna Mucabujoi.
Andean Tit-Spinetail - Leptasthenura andicola certhia. We saw 4 on the hillsides behind Laguna Mucabujoi.
Andean Tit-Spinetail near Laguna Mucabujoi.
Rufous Spinetail - Synallaxis unirufa A single individual was seen along the Pico Humboldt trail.
Black-throated Spinetail - Synallaxis castanea A single individual was seen at Portucheullo Pass at Henri Pittier.
Pale-breasted Spinetail - Synallaxis albescens We saw singles at La Soledad and in the Henri Pittier NP and 2 at Bella Vista.
Crested Spinetail - Cranioleuca subcristata subcristata A single individual was seen nest-building opposite the entrance to Rancho Grande on two dates.
Yellow-chinned Spinetail - Certhiaxis cinnamomea We saw up to 15 daily at Hato Pinero and 2 at Bella Vista.
Ochre-browed Thistletail - Schizoeaca coryi We saw 6 on the hillsides behind Laguna Mucabujoi.
Common (Plain) Thornbird - Phacellodomus rufifrons inornatus We saw up to 4 daily at Hato Pinero and 2 at both Bella Vista and Bruzual Bridge. Often hopping around on the ground and proving somewhat Wren-like.
Common Thornbird at Hato Pinero.
Plain Xenops - Xenops minutus Singles were seen along the Choroni road at Henri Pittier NP and at Guatapo.
Streaked Xenops - Xenops rutilans heterurus We saw 2 at Portuceullo Pass and 1 at Rancho Grande in the Henri Pittier NP.
Montane Foliage-gleaner - Anabacerthia striaticollis venezuelana We saw 2 on three dates in the Henri Pittier NP.
Streaked Tuftedcheek - Pseudocolaptes boissonneautii meridae A superb individual was part of a mixed-species flock seen along the Pico Humboldt trail.
Buff-fronted Foliage-gleaner - Philydor rufus columbianus We saw up to 5 daily whilst at the Henri Pittier NP.
Sharp-tailed Streamcreeper - Lochmias nematura sororia A pair were seen on three dates as they flew from under the upper concrete tunnel bridge at Km19 along the Ocumare road in the Henri Pittier NP. By looking under the road good views could be obtained as the birds hopped along stream to the entrance before quickly flying to and disappearing into the forest undergrowth. Superb proving a highlight of the trip.
Plain-brown Woodcreeper - Dendrocincla fuliginosa meruloides A single individual was seen at Guatapo and 5 were seen at an outbreak of bugs on the trails behind Rancho Grande in the Henri Pittier NP.
Olivaceous Woodcreeper - Sittasomus griseicapillus griseus Singles were seen along the Ocumare road in the Henri Pittier NP and on two dates at Guatapo.
Strong-billed Woodcreeper - Xiphocolaptes promeropirhynchus procerus A single individual was seen at Rancho Grande in the Henri Pittier NP on the 19th and 2 were in attendance at the outbreak of bugs there on the 2nd.
Black-banded Woodcreeper - Dendrocolaptes picumnus multistrigatus
A single individual was seen along the Pico Humboldt trail on the 24th.
Straight-billed Woodcreeper - Xiphorhynchus picus C
We saw up to 4 daily on the cacti in the desert area west of Barquisimeto and 2 were seen daily whilst at Hato Pinero.
Straight Billed Woodcreeper feeding in the cacti in the desert at Barquisimeto.
Cocoa Woodcreeper - Xiphorhynchus susurrans Singles were seen along the Ocumare road in the Henri Pittier NP and at Hato Pinero.
Streak-headed Woodcreeper - Lepidocolaptes souleyetii littoralis A few were seen in the vicinity of Maracay.
Montane Woodcreeper - Lepidocolaptes lacrymiger lafresnayi A few were seen at three different sites in the Andes and 2 were seen in Henri Pittier NP.
Black-crested Antshrike - Sakesphorus canadensis A male was seen in the desert west of Barquisimeto, 2 females were seen at Hato Pinero and a single individual was seen at Guatapo. Superb.
Male Black Crested Ant-shrike in the desert at Barquisimeto.
Barred Antshrike - Thamnophilus doliatus We saw 4 at the Henri Pittier NP, 1 at Bruzual Bridge and 2 at Hato Pinero. Superb.
Plain Antvireo - Dysithamnus mentalis cumbreanus A single individual was seen along the Agua Blanca trail at Guatapo.
White-streaked Antvireo (Plumbeous Antshrike) - Dysithamnus leucostictus tucuyensis A single individual was in loose association with the birds at the outbreak of bugs at the top of the trail behind Rancho Grande in the Henri Pittier NP.
Slaty Antwren - Myrmotherula schisticolor sanctaemartae We saw 4 on the trails behind Rancho Grande in the Henri Pittier NP and 6 at Guatapo.
Rufous-winged Antwren – Herpsilochmus rufimarginatus JFC saw a female along the Agua Blanca Trail at Guatapo.
White-fringed Antwren - Formicivora grisea A pair were seen twice along the dry riverbed opposite the Hotel Maracay and a male was seen at Hato Pinero. Superb.
Black-faced Antthrush - Formicarius analis saturates A party of 4 were feeding at the outbreak of bugs at the top of the trail behind Rancho Grande. Not at all shy often being too close to focus. Absolutely superb being a highlight of the trip.
Black Faced Ant-Thrush in the dark forest behind Rancho Grande.
Plain-backed Antpitta - Grallaria haplonota haplonota
A single individual was seen briefly stood before it hopped away just off the trail behind Rancho Grande in the Henri Pittier NP.
Chestnut-crowned Antpitta - Grallaria ruficapilla nigrolineata
DRC saw a single individual perched on a log in the open just off the Pico Humboldlt trail with another seen there by us all in silhouette as it hopped along around 5m in thick undergrowth. Hence JFC and DC were very relieved to see a single individual remarkably stood in the middle of an open grassy clearing before it hopped into a thicket during the late afternoon spent at the entrance to the Sierra Nevada Park around 5km above Santo Domingo. Superb.
Slate-crowned Antpitta - Grallaricula nana olivascens
A single individual was seen perched on a low branch above the outbreak of bugs along the trail behind Rancho Grande.
Handsome Fruiteater - Pipreola formosa Formosa
Up to 5 were seen on three dates in the Henri Pittier NP. Superb.
Andean Cock-of-the-Rock - Rupicola peruviana aequatorialis
A single male was seen from the San Isidro road in the afternoon of the 25th and at least 8 were seen at the lek there the following morning proving the highlight of the trip.
Male Andean Cock-of-the-Rocks at the lek along the San Isidro road.
Lance-tailed Manakin - Chiroxiphia lanceolate A pair were seen at Hato Pinero and 4 were seen lekking at the Coffee Plantation at La Plantas along the Choroni road. Superb.
Wire-tailed Manakin - Pipra filicauda subpallida A superb male put on a good show for us at the Coffee Plantation at La Plantas along the Choroni road in the Henri Pittier NP. Superb.
Wire Tailed Manakin in the dark forest at Henri Pittier National Park.
Mouse-coloured Tyrannulet - Phaeomyias murina incomta We saw 4 at Hato Pinero.
Yellow-bellied Elaenia - Elaenia flavogaster flavogaster Up to 4 were seen on both dates along the Choroni road in the Henri Pittier NP and up to 2 were seen at Hato Pinero.
Small-billed Elaenia - Elaenia parvirostris We tentatively identified 2 along the La Soledad road.
Mountain Elaenia - Elaenia frantzii pudica We saw 1 at ULAF and up to 2 along the San Isidro road.
Torrent Tyrannulet - Serpophaga cinerea cinereal We saw 5 on the drive up to the Pico Humboldt trail and 3 were seen at the entrance to the Sierra Nevada NP.
Olive-striped Flycatcher - Mionectes olivaceus meridae We saw 2 along the Pico Humboldt trail.
Marble-faced Bristle-Tyrant - Phylloscartes ophthalmicus purus We saw up to 4 on two dates along the Ocumare road and 2 at Guatapo.
Venezuelan Bristle-Tyrant - Phylloscartes venezuelanus Up to 4 were seen on two dates at Rancho Grande.
Black-capped Tyrannulet - Phyllomyias nigrocapillus aureus A single individual was seen along the San Isidro road.
White-throated Tyrannulet - Mecocerculus leucophrys A single individual was seen along the Choroni road, 2 were seen near La Azulita and 5 along the San Isidro road.
Slender-billed Tyrannulet - Inezia tenuirostris Singles were seen on both days spent in the desert area to the west of Barquisimeto.
Pale-tipped Tyrannulet - Inezia subflava A single individual was seen at Hato Pinero.
Pale-eyed Pygmy-Tyrant - Lophotriccus pilaris Up to 2 were seen on two dates at Hato Pinero.
Common Tody-Flycatcher - Todirostrum cinereum cinereum Seen in small numbers on five dates mainly at Hato Pinero.
Yellow-breasted Flycatcher - Tolmomyias flaviventris collingwoodi Up to 6 were seen at Hato Pinero on two dates.
White-throated Spadebill - Platyrinchus mystaceus A single individual performed well in the dry forest at Hato Pinero. Superb.
A record shot of the White Throated Spadebill at Hato Pinero.
Flavescent Flycatcher - Myiophobus flavicans A single individual was seen along the Pico Humboldt trail.
Bran-coloured Flycatcher - Myiophobus fasciatus fasciatus We saw 2 low down along the Ocumare road in the Henri Pittier NP.
Cinnamon Flycatcher - Pyrrhomyias cinnamomea Up to 4 were seen in the Henri Pittier NP on five dates and singles were seen along the San Isidro road on two dates.
Cliff Flycatcher - Hirundinea ferruginea sclateri
Up to 4 were seen on the two dates at the San Isidro Quarry. Superb.
Cliff Flycatcher in the San Isidro quarry.
Smoke-coloured Pewee - Contopus fumigatus We saw 2 daily at Rancho Grande and 2 at the entrance to the Sierra Nevada NP.
Black Phoebe - Sayornis nigricans angustirostris Small numbers were seen on eleven dates.
Black Phoebe in the Andes.
Vermilion Flycatcher - Pyrocephalus rubinus saturates
We saw 6 daily in the desert west of Barquisimeto, 2 along the Encontrados Loop and up to 10 daily at Hato Pinero.
Vermilion Flycatcher along the Encontrados Loop.
Brown-backed Chat-Tyrant - Ochthoeca fumicolor superciliosa We saw 2 at the Pico Aguila Lagoons and 8 behind Laguna Mucubajoi.
Streak-throated Bush-Tyrant - Myiotheretes striaticollis striaticollis Pairs were seen along the Pico Humboldt trail, continually at the entrance to the Sierra Nevada NP around 5km north of Santo Domingo and in the grounds of the Santo Domingo Hotel.
Streak Throated Bush-Tyrant at Sierra Nevada National Park.
Pied Water-Tyrant - Fluvicola pica Seen daily whilst in the Llanos with a daily maximums of 8 seen at Hato Pinero and 8 at Bella Vista.
Pied Water-Tyrant.
White-headed Marsh-Tyrant - Arundinicola leucocephala We saw 1 at the Encontrados Loop, 3 at Bruzual Bridge and 2 daily at Hato Pinero.
Male White Headed Marsh-Tyrant at Hato Pinero.
Cattle Tyrant - Machetornis rixosus Seen on seven dates in widespread locations with a daily maximum of 8 seen at Hato Pinero.
Cattle Tyrant at Hato Pinero.
Dusky-capped Flycatcher - Myiarchus tuberculifer We saw 3 along the Choroni road in the Henri Pittier NP.
Venezuelan Flycatcher - Myiarchus venezuelensis We tentatively identified 4 daily in the desert west of Barquisimeto.
Short-crested Flycatcher - Myiarchus ferox brunnescens We tentatively identified up to 4 daily at Hato Pinero and 1 at Bella Vista.
Brown-crested Flycatcher - Myiarchus tyrannulus tyrannulus Seen at widespread locations on four dates.
Great Kiskadee - Pitangus sulphuratus Common being seen on fifteen dates.
Great Kiskadee at Hato Pinero.
Boat-billed Flycatcher - Megarynchus pitangua pitangua Positively identified on seven dates but probably widely overlooked.
Rusty-margined Flycatcher - Myiozetetes cayanensis We saw 2 along the La Soledad road.
Rusty Margined Flycatcher along the La Soledad road.
Social Flycatcher - Myiozetetes similis This species proved widespread being seen on thirteen dates.
Golden-crowned Flycatcher - Myiodynastes chrysocephalus cinerascens Pairs were seen at the summit of the Choroni road and at the Km19 bridge just below Rancho Grande in the Henri Pittier NP.
Golden Crowned Flycatcher at Henri Pittier National Park.
Streaked Flycatcher - Myiodynastes maculatus Widespread being seen in small numbers on eight dates.
Streaked Flycatcher in the Andes.
White-bearded Flycatcher - Phelpsia inornata Up to 8 were seen daily at Hato Pinero.
White Bearded Flycatcher at Hatio Pinero.
Tropical Kingbird - Tyrannus melancholicus Very common being seen virtually daily.
Tropical Kingbird at Hatio Pinero.
Grey Kingbird - Tyranus dominicensis We saw 3 at Barquisimeto and up to 6 at Hato Pinero.
Grey Kingbird at Hato Pinero.
Fork-tailed Flycatcher - Tyrannus savana monachus Seen on six dates in the Llanos sites that we visited.
Fork Tailed Flycatcher in the Llanos.
Chestnut-crowned Becard - Pachyramphus castaneus intermedius We saw up to 2 on three dates at Henri Pittier NP.
White-winged Becard - Pachyramphus polychopterus A single individual was seen along the Agua Blanca trail at Guatapo.
Masked Tityra - Tityra semifasciata A single individual was seen along the Ocumare road in the Henri Pittier NP.
Masked Tityra along the Ocumare road in Henri Pittier National Park.
Grey-breasted Martin - Progne chalybea chalybea his species proved widespread with up to 10 seen on ten dates.
White-winged Swallow - Tachycineta albiventer Up to 10 were seen at various sites in the Llanos on five dates.
Blue-and-white Swallow - Pygochelidon cyanoleuca cyanoleuca This species proved to be widespread being seen on ten dates.
Blue & White Swallows near the Airport.
Brown-bellied Swallow - Notiochelidon murina meridensis We saw 6 at the entrance to the Sierra National Park around 5km above Santo Domingo.
Southern Rough-winged Swallow - Stelgidopteryx ruficollis This species proved widespread with up to 30 being seen on thirteen dates.
Sand Martin - Riparia riparia riparia We saw 3 at Bella Vista.
Barn Swallow - Hirundo rustica erythrogaster Seen on ten dates with a daily maximum of an estimated 10,000 seen at Bella Vista.
White-capped Dipper - Cinclus leucocephalus leuconotus A pair were seen at the entrance to the Sierra Nevada NP and up to 3 were seen at the Mitusus bridges. Superb.
Bicolored Wren - Campylorhynchus griseus Up to 8 were seen in the desert to the west of Barquisimeto, 2 were seen at Encontrados and up to 2 were seen at Hato Pinero.
Bicolored Wren in the desert at Barquisimeto.
Stripe-backed Wren - Campylorhynchus nuchalis brevipennis Up to 8 were seen daily at both the Hotel Maracay and at Hato Pinero.
Stripe Backed Wren in the grounds of the Hotel Maracay.
Rufous-breasted Wren - Thryothorus rutilus We saw 3 on the trails behind Rancho Grande, 1 at the La Soledad road and 1 at the Guatapo NP.
Rufous-and-white Wren - Thryothorus rufalbus We saw 2 along the Agua Blanca trail at Guatapo.
Buff-breasted Wren - Thryothorus leucotis We saw two pairs in dry forest at Hato Pinero.
House Wren - Troglodytes aedon This species proved widespread being seen on ten dates.
Mountain Wren - Troglodytes solstitialis solitaries We saw 2 along the Pico Humboldt trail.
Grey-breasted Wood-Wren - Henicorhina leucophrys We saw up to 2 at Rancho Grande and 2 along the San Isidro road.
Tropical Mockingbird - Mimus gilvus melanopterus We saw up to 20 on fifteen dates.
Tropical Mockingbird near Hotel Maracay.
Andean Solitaire – Myadestes ralloides JFC saw a single individual along the Pico Humboldt Trail.
Orange-billed Nightingale-Thrush - Catharus aurantiirostris A single individual was seen low down along the Ocumare road.
Yellow-legged Thrush - Platycichla flavipes venezuelensis C Commoner than expected with up to 4 seen on three visits to the Henri Pittier NP and up to 2 seen on four dates at various sites in the Andes.
Great Thrush - Turdus fuscater gigas We saw up to 30 daily whilst in the Andes.
Great Thrush in the Andes.
Glossy-black Thrush - Turdus serranus A single individual was seen on the Pico Humboldt trail and 3 were seen at the summit of the Choroni road in the Henri Pittier NP.
Male Glossy Black Thrush at Henri Pittier National Park.
Black-hooded Thrush - Turdus olivater olivater We saw up to 3 on four dates at Henri Pittier NP, 2 at the San Isidro road and 8 at the La Soledad road.
Chestnut-bellied Thrush - Turdus fulviventris We saw 2 in a fruiting tree along the Pico Humboldt trail.
Pale-breasted Thrush - Turdus leucomelas albiventer Up to 4 were seen on two dates in the Henri Pittier NP.
Black-billed Thrush - Turdus ignobilis debilis We saw 2 along the La Soledad road.
Cocoa Thrush - Turdus fumigatus We saw 2 along the San Isidro road, 1 at the La Soledad road, 1 at the Rio Barragan, 1 at Las Plantas Coffee Plantation, up to 2 daily at Guatapo.
Bare-eyed Thrush - Turdus nudigenis nudigenis Up to 8 were seen at the Hotel Maracay on four dates and a single individual was seen along the La Soledad road.
Bare Eyed Thrush in the grounds of the Hotel Maracay.
White-necked Thrush - Turdus albicollis We saw up to 3 in the Henri Pittier NP on four dates with a pair ever-present at the Km19 bridge along the Ocumare road.
White Necked Thrush in Henri Pittier N.Pk.
Tropical Gnatcatcher - Polioptila plumbea Widespread in lowland areas with a daily maximum of 8 seen in the desert area to the west of Barquisimeto.
Tropical Gnatcatcher in the desert at Barquisimeto.
Black-chested Jay - Cyanocorax affinis affinis A party of 5 were seen along the road to the north of La Azulita.
Green Jay - Cyanocorax yncas Seen on eight dates with up to 8 seen on a day in both the Henri Pittier NP and in the Andes.
Black-collared Jay - Cyanolyca armillata We saw 4 along the Pico Humboldt Trail.
Brown-capped Vireo – Vireo leucophrys mirandae Up to 2 were seen at Henri Pittier NP on two dates.
Red-eyed Vireo – Vireo olivaceus We saw 2 in the dry forest at Hato Pinero on the 30th.
Scrub Greenlet – Hylophilus flavipes We saw up to 4 on both days at Guatapo.
Golden-fronted Greenlet – Hylophilus aurantiifrons A single individual was seen at the Rio Barragan.
Rufous-browed Peppershrike – Cyclarhis gujanensis We saw 1 along the Ocumare Road on two dates and 1 at Hato Pinero.
Andean Siskin – Carduelis spinescens spinescens We saw up to 10 daily in the pine trees in front of the Santo Domingo Hotel and more surprisingly 1 at Portuchello Pass in the Henri Pittier NP.
Yellow-bellied Siskin – Carduelis xanthogastra xanthogastra C A pair was seen in the Pico Humboldt clearing and 1 was seen along the San Isidro Road.
Lesser Goldfinch – Carduelis psaltria columbianus We saw up to 10 around Maracay on four dates and 2 at the La Soledad Road.
Golden-winged Warbler – Vermivora chrysoptera A single male was seen along the trails behind Rancho Grande.
Tennessee Warbler – Vermivora peregrine We saw 12 along the La Soledad road and 6 below Rancho Grande on the 2nd.
Tropical Parula – Parula pitiayumi elegans A single individual was seen along the La Soledad road.
Yellow Warbler – Dendroica petechia Single males were seen at Bruzual Bridge and opposite the Hotel Maracay.
Blackburnian Warbler – Dendroica fusca Up to 5 on a day were seen at Henri Pittier NP, the Pico Humboldt Trail near Merida, and at the entrance to the forest along the San Isidro Road.
Blackpoll Warbler – Dendroica striata A female was seen along the La Soledad Road and a male was seen at the Rio Barragan.
Cerulean Warbler – Dendroica cerulean A stunning male was seen along the road to La Azulita on the 21st.
Black-and-white Warbler – Mniotilta varia Singles were seen along the Choroni Road, at La Azulita and at the La Soledad Road.
American Redstart – Setophaga ruticilla Seen at widespread locations with up to 3 being seen on seven dates.
Northern Waterthrush – Seiurus noveboracensis Singles were seen at the Km19 bridges along the Ocumare Road, at the Rio Barragan, at Hato Pinero and in the gardens behind the Hotel Macuto.
Canada Warbler – Wilsonia canadensis A single individual was seen at the Km19 bridge along the Ocumare Road on the 19th and was still present there on the 1st.
Slate-throated Redstart – Myioborus miniatus This species proved common in the Henri Pittier NP and in the Andes with up to 8 seen on ten dates.
Slate Throated Redstart in Henri Pittier National Park.
White-fronted Redstart – Myioborus albifrons Up to 4 were seen daily at the Pico Humboldt Trail and at the entrance to the Sierra Nevada NP.
Citrine Warbler – Basileuterus luteoviridis luteoviridis We saw 6 along the Pico Humboldt Trail.
Black-crested Warbler – Basileuterus nigrocristatus A pair were seen at the start of the Pico Humboldt Trail.
Russet-crowned Warbler – Basileuterus coronatus regulus A single individual was seen along the Pico Humboldt Trail.
Golden-crowned Warbler – Basileuterus culicivorus Up to 2 were seen in the Henri Pittier NP on three dates.
Three-striped Warbler – Basileuterus tristriatus We saw up to 10 in the high Andes at the ULAF, along the Pico Humboldt Trail and along the San Isidro Road and 2 were seen in the Henri Pittier NP.
Flavescent Warbler – Basileuterus flaveolus pallidirostris We saw 2 along the Ocumare Road.
Bananaquit – Coereba flaveola Up to 8 were seen on fifteen dates.
Magpie Tanager – Cissopis leveriana leveriana We saw a pair along the road above La Azulita and 1 along the La Soledad road.
Common Bush-Tanager – Chlorospingus ophthalmicus Seen in suitable habitat on eight dates.
Grey-capped Hemispingus – Hemispingus reyi Up to 2 were seen daily along the Pico Humboldt Trail.
Oleaginous Hemispingus – Hemispingus frontalis A single individual was seen along the Pico Humboldt Trail.
Fulvous-headed Tanager – Thlypopsis fulviceps fulviceps We saw 3 in the scrub at the start of the Ocumare Road.
Guira Tanager – Hemithraupis guira nigrigula We saw 2 low down along the Choroni road.
Grey-headed Tanager – Eucometis penicillate A party of 5 were seen along the Agua Blanca Trail at Guatapo.
White-lined Tanager – Tachyphonus rufus This species proved common and widespread.
White Lined Tanager at the feeding station in Henri Pittier National Park.
Hepatic Tanager – Piranga flava We saw 4 along the La Soledad Road and 6 along the Choroni Road.
Summer Tanager – Piranga rubra rubra A single individual was seen low down along the Ocumare road.
White-winged Tanager – Piranga leucoptera venezuelae We saw 6 along the San Isidro road and 3 at the Km19 bridge along the Ocumare road.
Crimson-backed Tanager – Ramphocelus dimidiatus dimidiatus Up to 8 were seen on both dates on the drive up to La Azulita.
Silver-beaked Tanager – Ramphocelus carbo C This species proved to be common at Henri Pittier, the La Soledad road, Hato Pinero and Guatapo.
Silver Beaked Tanager at Guatapo.
Blue-grey Tanager – Thraupis episcopus This species proved to be both very common and widespread.
Blue Grey Tanager at the feeding station in Henri Pittier National Park.
Blue-capped Tanager – Thraupis cyanocephala We saw up to 4 on both days along the Choroni road, 8 near La Azulita and 2 along the Pico Humboldt Trail.
Palm Tanager – Thraupis palmarum This species proved to be both common and widespread.
Blue-winged Mountain-Tanager – Anisognathus somptuosus A single individual was seen in a fruiting tree at the Km19 bridge along the Ocumare road.
Trinidad Euphonia – Euphonia trinitatis A single individual was seen in the dry forest at Hato Pinero.
Thick-billed Euphonia – Euphonia laniirostris crassirostris Pairs were seen near La Azulita and at Guatapo.
Poor record shot of a Male Thick Billed Euphonia at La Azulita.
Golden-rumped Euphonia – Euphonia cyanocephala pelzelni We saw a pair at the San Isidro road just before the quarry.
Orange-bellied Euphonia – Euphonia xanthogaster exsul Pairs were seen at Rancho Grande on three dates and 4 were seen at the Guatapo bird table.
Orange Bellied Euphonia at Guatapo.
Blue-naped Chlorophonia – Chlorophonia cyanea longipennis We saw 3 in a fruiting tree at the Km19 bridge along the Ocumare road.
Golden Tanager – Tangara arthus arthus We saw up to 6 daily at Henri Pittier NP, 1 near La Azulita and 1 on the Guatapo bird tabe on two dates.
Golden Tanager with Bay Headed Tanager at the Ranger’s feeding station at Guatapo.
Speckled Tanager – Tangara guttata chrysophrys We saw up to 8 daily at Henri Pittier NP and 2 were present at the Guatapo Ranger Station bird table on both dates.
Speckled Tanager at the feeding station at Guatapo.
Bay-headed Tanager – Tangara gyrola toddi C This species proved common at both Henri Pittier and Guatapo with a few also seen elsewhere.
Bay Headed Tanager at the feeding station at Guatapo.
Burnished-buff Tanager – Tangara cayana cayana We saw up to 4 daily at both Henri Pittier NP and Hato Pinero.
Rufous-cheeked Tanager – Tangara rufigenis We saw 5 along the Choroni road and 1 at Portuchello Pass.
Blue-necked Tanager – Tangara cyanicollis hannahiae We saw 2 near La Azulita and 8 at the La Soledad road.
Beryl-spangled Tanager – Tangara nigroviridis lozanoana We saw pairs near La Azulita and on both days along the Pico Humboldt Trail.
Blue-and-black Tanager – Tangara vassorii vassorii We saw up to 4 at the entrance to the Sierra Nevada NP c.5km above Santo Domingo on two dates.
Black-capped Tanager – Tangara heinei We saw a pair at the Pico Humboldt clearing and a single individual at the San Isidro Quarry.
Blue Dacnis – Dacnis cayana cayana We saw a pair along the La Soledad road.
Green Honeycreeper – Chlorophanes spiza spiza We saw singles around Rancho Grande on two dates and at Guatapo on two dates.
Purple Honeycreeper – Cyanerpes caeruleus caeruleus We saw up to 3 at Henri Pittier NP on two dates and up to 3 at Guatapo
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Red-legged Honeycreeper – Cyanerpes cyaneus eximius C We saw 2 along the Choroni road on the 3rd.
Swallow Tanager – Tersina viridis ocidentalis This species proved more common than expected with 6 seen on every visit to Henri Pittier NP, 1 along the San Isidro road and 4 at the La Soledad road where they were often seen at their breeding tunnels on the cliff faces.
Male Swallow Tanager in Henri Pittier National Park.
Pileated Finch – Coryphospingus pileatus brevicaudus Singles were seen in the desert to the west of Barquisimeto and on the drive out to Hato Pinero.
Plumbeous Sierra-Finch – Phrygilus unicolor nivarius We saw a single individual at the Pico Aguila Pools and 6 behind Lake Mucubajoi.
Plumbeous Sierra-Finch behind Laguna Mucubajoi.
Blue-black Grassquit – Volatinia jacarina splendens This species proved common and widespread.
Grey Seedeater – Sporophila intermedia intermedia Up to 25 were seen at both Encontrados and Hato Pinero.
Yellow-bellied Seedeater – Sporophila nigricollis nigricollis Seen in small numbers at both Henri Pittier NP and along the La Soledad road.
Ruddy-breasted Seedeater – Sporophila minuta minuta We saw 4 below La Azulita, 2 near Bruzual Bridge and 1 at Hato Pinero.
Chestnut-bellied (Lesser) Seed-Finch – Oryzoborus angolensis torridus We saw 8 along the La Soledad road.
Black-faced Grassquit – Tiaris bicolour omissa We saw around 30 west of Barquisimeto on the 21st.
White-sided Flowerpiercer – Diglossa albilatera albilatera A single individual was seen along the San Isidro road.
Merida Flowerpiercer – Diglossa gloriosa We saw a single individual along the San Isidro road.
Bluish Flowerpiercer – Diglossopis caerulescens saturata / caerulescens We saw 6 saturata along the Pico Humboldt Trail and a single caerulescens at the summit of the Choroni road.
Masked Flowerpiercer – Diglossopis cyanea cyanea We saw 2 at the entrance to the Sierra Nevada National Park around 5km above Santo Domingo.
Saffron Finch – Sicalis flaveola flaveola C This species proved common and widespread.
Male Saffron Finch in the grounds of the Hotel Maracay.
Wedge-tailed Grass-Finch – Emberizoides herbicola sphenurus We saw a pair near the entrance gate at Hato Pinero.
Wedge Tailed Grass-Finch by the entrance gate to Hato Pinero.
Red-capped Cardinal – Paroaria gularis nigrogenis We saw up to 50 daily whilst in the Llanos.
Moustached Brush-Finch – Atlapetes albofrenatus meridae We saw up to 3 on both days spent along the Pico Humboldt Trail.
Slaty Brush-Finch – Atlapetes schistaceus castaneifrons DC saw a single individual at the entrance to the Sierra Nevada NP above Santo Domingo.
Ochre-breasted Brush-Finch – Atlapetes semirufus denisei We saw 4 along both the Choroni and Ocumare roads.
Chestnut-capped Brush-Finch –Atlapetes brunneinucha frontalis /xanthogenys We saw 3 frontalis along the Pico Humboldt Trail and a single xanthogenys behind Rancho Grande.
Pectoral Sparrow – Arremon taciturnus axillaris We saw a pair at the Rio Barragan.
Black-striped Sparrow – Arremonops conirostris conirostris We saw a single individual near Rancho Grande.
Grassland Sparrow – Ammodramus humeralis humeralis We saw 2 at Hato Pinero.
Yellow-browed Sparrow – Ammodramus aurifrons apurensis We saw up to 6 on two dates at Hato Pinero.
Rufous-collared Sparrow – Zonotrichia capensis costaricensis / venezuelae We saw up to 10 costaricensis daily in the Andes and 1 venezuelae at the summit of the Choroni road.
Ultramarine Grosbeak – Cyanocompsa cyanea JFC saw a single female along the riverbed opposite the Hotel Maracay.
Streaked Saltator – Saltator striatipectus perstriatus Up to 2 were seen at Henri Pittier NP on three dates.
Greyish Saltator – Saltator coerulescens brewsteri This species proved widespread being seen on eight dates.
Buff-throated Saltator – Saltator maximus maximus We saw up to 4 in Henri Pittier NP on three dates and 1 along the La Soledad road.
Buff Throated Saltator at a feeding station in Henri Pittier National Park.
Orinocan Saltator – Saltator orenocensis rufescens / orenocensis We saw up to 4 rufescens in the desert west of Barquisimeto and 2 orenocensis at Hato Pinero.
Rose-breasted Grosbeak – Pheucticus ludovicianus We saw a single male along the Choroni road on the 3rd.
Dickcissel – Spiza Americana We saw a party of 20 near Libertrad.
Yellow-hooded Blackbird – Agelaius icterocephalus icterocephalus We saw 50 at Encontrados, 5 near Libertrad, 15 at Hato Pinero and 15 at Bella Vista.
Yellow Hooded Blackbird at Bella Vista.
Red-breasted Blackbird – Sturnella militaris We saw 8 at Encontrados and 6 at Hato Pinero.
Eastern Meadowlark – Sturnella magna meridionalis / paralios We saw 1 meridionalis on the hillside behind Lake Mucubajoi on the 25th and 1 paralios near Bruzual Bridge.
Carib Grackle – Quiscalus lugubris lugubris C This species proved to be very common being seen on fifteen dates and being the first species seen on the trip!
Carib Grackles
Shiny Cowbird – Molothrus bonariensis venezuelensis Seen on nine dates with a daily maximum of 40 seen at Hato Pinero.
Giant Cowbird – Scaphidura oryzivora oryzivora A single individual was seen at Hato Pinero on two dates.
Giant Cowbird at Hato Pinero.
Yellow Oriole – Icterus nigrogularis nigrogularis We saw 4 on both days in the desert west of Barquisimeto and singles at Hato Pinero on three days and 2 at Guatapo.
Troupial – Icterus icterus We saw up to 6 in the desert west of Barquisimeto on two dates and up to 3 at Hato Pinero on two dates.
Two distant Troupials in the desert at Barquisimeto.
Yellow-rumped Cacique – Cacicus cela cela
We saw up to 20 daily in the Llanos and at Bella Vista.
Crested Oropendola – Psarocolius decumanus decumanus
This species proved common and widespread with up to 20 being seen on ten dates.
Crested Orpendola high up in a flowering tree at Guatapo.
Russet-backed Oropendola – Psarocolius angustifrons We saw up to 20 daily in the Henri Pittier NP and 8 below La Azulita.
Oriole Blackbird – Gymnomystax mexicanus We saw up to 3 opposite the Hotel Maracay, 18 near Libertrad and 10 at Hato Pinero.
