Moving onto Petrolina we found our only productive wetlands of the whole tour and if there was one negative aspect of this year’s tour it would be the lack of waterfowl encountered due to the paucity of the roadside lakes and pools. Nevertheless as we crossed Pernambuco our first Black-bellied Whistling-Ducks, Brazilian Teals and White-cheeked Pintails were found on this leg of the trip. Caatinga Cachalotes, Spot-backed Puffbirds and White-naped Jays were in evidence in the Caatinga bordering the pools and the handsome Cactus Parakeet was prolific here too. A chance encounter with a male Scarlet-throated Tanager was a welcome surprise as this species can be tricky to find if you have to look for it!

Our full morning in the Petrolina area was one of the most “birdy” sessions of the tour.  Both Greater and Lesser Wagtail-Tyrants, White-naped Xenopsaris, Suiriri Flycatcher, Southern Scrub Flycatcher, White-throated Seedeater, Black-bellied Antwren and Pale-breasted Spinetails were seen very easily with Long-billed Wrens belting out their repetitive songs from the dense Caatinga scrub. Spotted Piculet finally gave itself up just as we were about to leave just before a Striped Cuckoo uncharacteristically jumped to the top of an Acacia bush in response to playback.

We travelled across the Raso da Catarina where our hosts at the Hotel Brasil in Canudos made us most welcome throughout our stay there. Our early morning hike onto the plateau to watch the endangered Lear’s Macaw has to one of THE events of the tour. I can still hear the raucous calls of one of the world’s rarest parrots leaving the canyon even now, echoing those incredible moments in the half light as they perched on nearby cacti and small trees on the semi-lit horizon. Pure magic. Naturally the Lear’s stole the show but the Blue-crowned Parakeets, Barred Antshrikes (of the orange-eyed capistratus race and Black-chested Buzzard-Eagle are of course worthy of mention, even if the Caatinga Black-Tyrant is best forgotten for personal reasons!

Our final afternoon in the Caatinga of Canudos produced Broad-tipped Hermit, Laughing Falcon and Least Nightjar on a short excursion from our hotel.

Leaving Canudos the tour took a slight dip as we inexplicably missed Pectoral Antwren in Caatinga en route to Murici near Jeremoabo. We tried really hard here, covering a lot of ground without a single response from our target bird. Spot-flanked Gallinule was scant reward for our efforts and having to leave without this bird was a real disappointment as we headed into Alagoas. Spirits were lifted somewhat the following morning near Murici with the exquisite Seven-coloured Tanagers in the early morning sunshine as we overlooked the forest from a vantage point. Raptors became our focus of attention as Black Hawk-Eagle, Hook-billed Kite, Zone-tailed Hawk and Mantled Hawk lifted into the air as the morning sun warmed the forest canopy.

The Murici Reserve harbours some of the rarest birds the Neotropics has to offer. Unfortunately it doesn’t give them up easily though. Walking along the forest trails with a carpet of dry leaves underfoot did not enhance our chances of locating some of the shy species but all thing considered we didn’t do too badly at Murici, although it took a lot of hard work, persistence and patience. Alagoas Antwren, Scalloped Antbird and Black-headed Berryeater head the cast of birds seen at Murici. Some crippling Jandaya Parakeets resplendent in the early morning sunshine on the fringes of the reserve started our second Murici visit well. Yellow-green Grosbeak, Blue-backed and Red-headed Manakins, White-backed Fire-eyes, Long-tailed Woodnymph, Sombre Hummingbird and Ash-throated Crake were also noteworthy but it was with some relief that we found birding a little easier at our next destinations in Bahia.

The Fringe-backed Fire-eye near Estancia was an easier task than expected. Indeed we even had time for lengthy studies of Golden-capped Parakeet, Red-legged Honeycreepers, Brazilian Tanagers and Stripe-necked Tody-Tyrants before embarking on an epic journey to Camamu (well done Edusao!). Our lengthy journey was wiped from the memory the following morning as we birded the forest patches in the hills near Camamu though. White-winged Cotinga, Racket-tailed Coquette, Sombre Hummingbird, Black-eared Fairy, Striped and White-crowned Manakins and Cinereous Antshrike helped ease us through a morning rapidly heating up with the hot tropical sun before a Least Pygmy-Owl finally gave itself up to playback. Predictably the afternoon session in this area was quieter but Black-cheeked Gnateater, Scaled Antbird and Bare-throated Bellbird should be considered worthy reward for our efforts. Leaving Camamu for Boa Nova we had an anxious wait before finding Pink-legged Graveteiro but we got there in the end (phew!).

Our stay near Boa Nova was eagerly anticipated and this forest fragment on the brink of destruction did not disappoint. Rio de Janeiro Antbird, Striated Softtail, Black-billed Scythebill, Crescent-chested Puffbird, Fork-tailed Pygmy-Tyrant, Drab-breasted Bamboo-Tyrant, Bahia Spinetail and Tufted Antshrike kept us very busy along a very short stretch of trail. The endangered Slender Antbird hangs on precariously in nearby Caatinga at Boa Nova and we enjoyed good views of this enigmatic antbird, watching Narrow-billed Antwrens, Stripe-backed Antbirds and Hangnest Tody-Tyrants in the area. The rocky plateaus festooned in flowering cacti provided us with the spectacular sight of Ruby Topaz and Sapphire-spangled Emeralds only a few feet from us as we watched them buzzing around us. We eventually located a couple of Pygmy Nightjars after finding a few Little Nightjars, much to the relief of everyone as we started to sweat in the midday sun before leaving for the Chapada Diamantina.

Our last birding locality, the Chapada Diamantina probably gave us some of our best accommodation and definitely the best breakfast! A veritable feast awaited us on returning from the high campo after seeing Sincora Antwren, Cinnamon Tanagers and even a pair of Collared Crescentchest hopping around on the trail just in front of us! An already very successful morning was enhanced further by locating Grey-backed Tachuris, Spix’s Spinetails, Amethyst Woodstar and best of all the rare Diamantina Tapaculo before finishing off in the Cerrado with Rufous-sided Pygmy-Tyrant and White-banded Tanager. Lunch that day was a very jolly affair before leaving for Lencois in the rain. The weather didn’t improve too much for our grand finale but the elements were forgiven once Sao Francisco Sparrow appeared in the Caatinga and Pale-throated Pampa-Finch and Hooded Visorbearer gave themselves up in less than optimum conditions in the higher reaches of the campo.

Photos kindly supplied by John Hopkins (Araripe Manakin and Band-tailed Manakin) and Fred Tavares (Scaled Antbird and Red-necked Tanager).

ITINERARY.
14 November: Group assembles in Fortaleza. Transfer to Guaramiranga.
15 November: Birding near Guaramiranga and Pernambuquinho.
16 November: Guaramiranga area.
17 November: Transfer from Guaramiranga to Crato. Late afternoon birding in Arajara Park for Araripe Manakin.
18 November: Morning in dry forest of FLONA Araripe. Rest of day in Caatinga, Serra de Araripe.
19 November: FLONA Araripe then return to Caatinga. PM transfer to Petrolina birding near Lagoa Grande en route.
20 November: Petrolina area in the morning, birding the Caatinga. PM transfer to Canudos.
21 November: Canudos Biological Station for Lear’s Macaw in the morning and Caatinga birding late afternoon.
22 November: Departure from Canudos, stopping near Jeremoaba en route to Uniao de Palmares near Murici.
23 November: Serra do Ouro near Murici in the morning. Late morning and rest of afternoon at the Murici Biological Station.
24 November: Murici Biological Station.
25 November: Serra do Ouro early AM before leaving for Estancia.
26 November: Birding near Estancia before departure for Crasto.
27 November: Birding at Orojo near Camamu.
28 November: Camamu – Camacan (Pink-legged Graveteiro). Crossed the Serra do Marcal en route to Boa Nova.
29 November: Boa Nova humid forest in the morning and birding in the Caatinga of Fazenda Mato Grosso in the afternoon. Finished at Lajedo in the late afternoon in search of nightjars.
30 November: Boa Nova humid forest early AM, Lajedo late AM. Birded Ibicoara late PM en route to Mucuje.
1 December: Cachoeira Siberia early AM, returning to the Rio Paraguacu near Ibicoara and nearby Cerrado for the rest of the morning. PM transfer to Lencois.
2 December: Early morning at Palmeiras before climbing Morro Pai Inacio. PM in forest near Lencois.
3 December: Drive to Salvador for flights to São Paulo and connecting flights home.

Birds recorded in North-east Brazil 14 November – 2 December 2009.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy follows AOU South American Classification Committee. See www.aou.org

Greater Rhea Rhea americana
Seen on two dates. Two were seen on 17th November as we travelled from Guaramiranga to Crato and two again on our last day from Lencois to Salvador.

Yellow-legged Tinamou Crypterellus noctivagus Heard on two dates in Chapada Diamantina but unresponsive to playback and remained distant.

Small-billed Tinamou Crypturellus parvirostris Heard at Chapada Diamantina on 1 December.

Tataupa Tinamou Crypturellus tataupa Heard at Lajedo near Boa Nova on 29th November and at Ibocoara on 30th November.

White-bellied Nothura Nothura boraquira One seen in the Serra do Marcal (crossing the road!) as we travelled from Camacan to Boa Nova on 28th November.

White-faced Whistling-Duck Dendrocygna viduata Two near Guaramiranga on 15th November, 30+ on 17th November on the journey from there to Crato on 17th November and 5 between Jeremoaba and Murici on 22nd November.

Brazilian Teal Amazonetta brasiliensis The most frequently recorded duck on the tour; small numbers (max. 4) on five dates.

White-cheeked Pintail Anas bahamensis Two between Guaramiranga and Crato on 17th November and 5 near Petrolina on 20th November were the only records.

White-browed Guan Penelope jacucaca
Seen in the Serra de Araripe where we saw up to six birds on trails through the Caatinga on 18 and 19 November. Endemic to Brazil.

Speckled Chachalaca Ortalis guttata
One seen on 1 December was our only sighting although we heard others that morning too.

Spot-winged Wood-Quail Odontophorus capueira
We watched three for some time right next to the trail in the Serra da Baturite on 15 November. Everyone saw this tricky species – just as Fred said they would!

Least Grebe Tachybaptus dominicus Least Grebe Seen on roadside pools on several dates, mostly from the bus.

Pied-billed Grebe Podylimbus podiceps Small numbers on three dates. Like the above species it was mainly seen on roadside pools as we travelled between birding sites.

Neotropic Cormorant Phalacrocorax brasilianus Recorded on four dates in small numbers.

Rufescent Tiger-Heron Tigrisoma lineatum Singles between Guaramiranga and Crato on 17th November and near Murici on 24th November.

Black-crowned Night-Heron Nycticorax nycticorax Singles near Murici and Estancia on 24th and 26th November respectively.

Striated Heron Butorides virescens Three seen on wetlands between Guaramiranga and Crato on 17th November, two seen near Petrolina on 20th November and a single on a lagoon near Boa Nova on 30th November were the only records.

Cattle Egret Bubulcis ibis Seen on nine dates, with three figure counts on some dates.

Great Egret Ardea alba Recorded on eight dates.

Snowy Egret Egretta thula Small numbers seen on six dates.

Little Blue Heron Egretta caerulea Two birds seen as we travelled from Guaramiranga to Crato on 17th November were the only records.

Bare-faced Ibis Phimosus infuscatus
Four seen as we travelled from Crato to Petrolina on 19 November.

Turkey Vulture Cathartes aura
Common and widespread, seen most days.

Lesser Yellow-headed Vulture Cathartes burrovianus
Widespread and seen most days. Probably under recorded – at least by the leader!

Black Vulture Coragyps atratus
Seen every day.

King Vulture Sarcoramphus papa
Singles near Crato on 26 November and the next day near Camamu.

White-tailed Kite Elanus leucurus
One on 1 December near the Rio Paraguacu near Ibicoara was the only record.

Pearl Kite Gampsonyx swainsonii
One seen on 22 November as we travelled from Canudos to Uniao de Palmares.

Hook-billed Kite Chondrohierax uncinatus
On 23 November we had good views of at least one bird overhead at Serra do Ouro near Murici. One was seen near Boa Nova on 29 November.

White-collared Kite Leptodon forbesi
This extremely rare bird was head at Serra so Ouro on 23 November but despite a lot of searching it remained out of sight unfortunately. The most frustrating part of the tour probably. Endemic to Brazil.

Swallow-tailed Kite Elanoides forficatus
Three seen over forested hillsides as we travelled from Camamu to Camacan on 28 November were as always, a very welcome sight indeed.

Snail Kite Rostrhamus sociabilis
Seen on 17, 20 and 25 November in small wetlands. No more than five birds seen on one day.

Double-toothed Kite Harpagus bidentatus
One was seen at close range on 23 November at the Murici Biological Station.

Sharp-shinned Hawk Accipiter striatus
One seen from the vehicle as we neared Uniao de Palmares on 23 November was the only record.

Crane Hawk Geranospiza caerulescens
One near Guaramiranga on 16 November was our only record.

Mantled Hawk Leucopternis polionotus
This scarce Atlantic Forest endemic was seen at Serra do Ouro near Murici on 23 November.

Savanna Hawk Buteogallus meridionalis
Seen on three dates in open country, mainly from the bus.

Black-chested Buzzard-Eagle Geranoaetus melanoleucus
One seen near Canudos Biological Station on 21 November.

Roadside Hawk Buteo magnirostris
Widespread in small numbers, no more than three birds seen in a day.

Grey Hawk Buteo nitidus
Seen on three dates with six on 21 November near Canudos.

Short-tailed Hawk Buteo brachyurus
A pale phase bird was seen over the Murici Biological Station forest from Serra do Ouro on 23 November. All other records were of dark phase birds at Estancia and Boa Nova.

White-tailed Hawk Buteo albicaudatus
Singles at Camacan on 28 November and near Ibicoara on 1 December.

Zone-tailed Hawk Buteo albonotatus
Singles over Serra do Ouro near Murici on 23 November, Estancia on 26 November, Camamu on 27 November and Boa Nova on 29 November.

Black Hawk-Eagle Spizaetus tyrannus
One seen from Serra do Ouro on 23 November.

Laughing Falcon Herpetotheres cachinnans
Singles recorded on six dates throughout the tour and seen very well at Canudos.

Southern Caracara Caracara plancus
Common and widespread, recorded on fifteen dates.

Yellow-headed Caracara Milvago chimachima
Small numbers 29 November – 2 December at Bahia sites.

American Kestrel Falco sparverius
Small numbers on nine dates, but nowhere numerous.

Bat Falcon Falco rufigularis
Heard at Murici Biological Station on 23 November.

Aplomado Falcon Falco femoralis
Three between Guaramiranga and Crato on 17 November.

Limpkin Aramus guarauna
Several seen on pools and lakes on travel days.

Grey-necked Wood-Rail Aramides cajanea
Heard near Guaramiranga on 15 November.

Rufous-sided Crake Laterallus melanophaius
Heard near Guaramiranga on 16 November.

Ash-throated Crake Porzana albicollis
Two seen on a small swamp near our hotel at Uniao de Palmares on 22 November.

Blackish Rail Pardirallus nigricans
Heard near Uniao de Palmares on 22 November and near Boa Nova on 29 November.

Common Gallinule Gallinula chlorops
Seen on small wetlands on five dates.

Spot-flanked Gallinule Gallinula melanops
Two seen on a lagoon near Jeremoaba on 22 November.

Purple Gallinule Porphyrio martinica
Seen on two dates.

Red-legged Seriema Cariama cristata
Heard on 17 November near Crato, but three seen on 22 November as we travelled from Canudos to Uniao de Palmares. Another was seen on 30 November.

Southern Lapwing Vanellus chilensis
Common and widespread, seen on thirteen days.

Collared Plover Charadrius collaris
Two on 20 November near Petrolina.

Black-necked Stilt Himantopus mexicanus
Seen on five dates, mainly on roadside pools.

Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus
One on 27 November.

Lesser Yellowlegs Tringa flavipes
Five seen as we drove from Guaramiranga on 17 November and a couple near Petrolina on 20 November.

Solitary Sandpiper Tringa solitaria
Small numbers on four dates.

Wattled Jacana Jacana jacana
Widespread and seen on most roadside wetlands with records on twelve dates.

Ruddy Ground-Dove Columbina talpacoti
Common and seen on seventeen dates.

Scaled Dove Columbina squammata
Ones and twos at Murici on two dates.

Picui Ground-Dove Columbina picui
Seen on ten dates.

Rock Pigeon Columba livia
Feral pigeons were seen on many dates on the tour.

Scaled Pigeon Patagioenas speciosa
Small numbers at Estancia, Camamu and Boa Nova.

Picazuro Pigeon Patagioenas picazuro
Seen in small numbers on five dates.

Pale-vented Pigeon Patagioenas cayennensis
Several near Petrolina on 20 November and a couple at Boa Nova on 30 November.

Eared Dove Zenaida auriculata
Small numbers on five dates.

White-tipped Dove Leptotila verreauxi
Several in the Serra de Araripe area.

Grey-fronted Dove Leptotila rufaxilla
Heard at Murici.

Indigo Macaw Anodorhynchus leari
On 21 November we walked from the Canudos Biological Station to a nearby canyon where we experienced the spectacular dawn flight of Indigo Macaws leaving their canyon roost site. Seeing approximately half the world’s population of this fantastic parrot as they circled the canyon, some perching on a cactus on the rim, was indeed a truly memorable moment. We probably saw something in the region of 100+ macaws with another ix the following day as we travelled towards Jeremoabo. Endemic to Brazil.

Red-shouldered Macaw Diopsittaca nobilis
Frequently seen between 23 – 26 November in the Murici and Estancia area.

Blue-crowned Parakeet Aratinga acuticaudata
Up to three hundred seen in a day in the Canudos area.

Golden-capped Parakeet Aratinga auricapillus
Fifteen seen in the Estancia area on 26 November and heard the Camamu area the next morning. Endemic to Brazil.

Jandaya Parakeet Aratinga jandaya
The 4x4’s came to an emergency stop on the road to Murici on 24 November when Fred spotted some of these colourful parakeets at the forest edge. In the end we saw twenty perched or flying around the cleared hillsides. Endemic to Brazil.

Peach-fronted Parakeet Aratinga aurea
Up to ten seen at Camamu, Boa Nova and Siberia Water.

Cactus Parakeet Aratinga cactorum
Common in the Caatinga of Serra de Araripe, Crato and Canudos between 17 and 23 November. Endemic to Brazil.

Maroon-bellied Parakeet Pyrrhura frontalis
Fairly common in the Camamu, Boa Nova and Chapada Diamantina area in the second half of the tour.

Maroon-faced Parakeet Pyrrhura leucotis
At least eight of the subspecies griseipectus (sometimes considered as a separate species – Grey-breasted Parakeet P. griseipectus) were seen in the Baturite Mountains near Guaramiranga on 15 November. Endemic to Brazil.

Blue-winged Parrotlet Forpus xanthopterygius
Recorded on seven dates.

Plain Parakeet Brotogeris tirica
Up to thirty seen on 27 and 28 November at Camamu. Endemic to Brazil.

Yellow-chevroned Parakeet Brotogeris chiriri
Common in the Baturite Mountains near Guaramiranga 14 – 17 November.

Golden-tailed Parrotlet Touit surdus
Four seen briefly at Serra do Ouro on 25 November and at Camamu on 27 November. Endemic to Brazil.

Blue-headed Parrot Pionus menstruus
Seen at Murici and Camamu.

Blue-fronted Parrot Amazona aestiva
A pair at Canudos Biological Station on 21 November and Crasto on 26 November were the only records.

Squirrel Cuckoo Piaya cayana
Widespread but only in small numbers, seen on twelve dates.

Smooth-billed Ani Crotophaga ani
Common, recorded on seventeen dates.

Guira Cuckoo Guira guira
Widespread and recorded on nine dates.

Striped Cuckoo Tapera naevia
Recorded on six dates; birds seen at Petrolina and Boa Nova.

Barn Owl Tyto alba
One as we travelled between Uniao de Palmares and Murici on 23 November.

Tropical Screech-Owl Megascops choliba
Heard in the Serra de Araripe and near Lencois on 2 December.

Least Pygmy-Owl Glaucidium minutissimum
One seen exceptionally well at Camamu on 27 November.

Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl Glaucidium brasilianum
One seen at Camacan.

Common Potoo Nyctibius griseus
Heard in the wooded borders of the Caatinga in the Serra de Araripe on 18 November.

Short-tailed Nighthawk Lurocalis semitorquatus
One near Murici Biological Station on 23 November and heard at Boa Nova on 30 November.

Least Nighthawk Chordeiles pusillus
One near Canudos on 21 November.

Lesser Nighthawk Chordeiles acutipennis
Five on 20 November as we approached Canudos.

Nacunda Nighthawk Podager nacunda
One seen near Mucuje on 30 November.

Common Pauraque Nyctidromus albicollis
Recorded on six dates and seen well, particularly at Guaramiranga where they were near our cabins at dusk.

Little Nightjar Caprimulgus parvulus
One seen near Murici Biological Station on 23 November and seen very well at Lajedo near Boa Nova on 29 and 30 November where up to three birds were seen.

Pygmy Nightjar Caprimulgus hirundinaceus
Two at Lajedo at dusk on 29 November and two there at their daytime roost the following day. Endemic to Brazil. 

White-collared Swift Streptoprocne zonaris
Seen on 30 November and 1 December near Boa Nova and Mucuje where we were able to obtain particularly instructive views in comparison with the next species. Up to twenty seen in a day.

Biscutate Swift Streptoprocne biscutata
We had very close views near Mucuje as a feeding flock flew close by in the late afternoon. The subtly different shape of this species (compared to White-collared S. zonaris) and more importantly the wedge-shaped chest band of the Biscutates could be seen very well.

Grey-rumped Swift Chaetura cinereiventris
Heard near Guaramiranga and twenty seen at Boa Nova on 28 November.

Sick’s Swift Chaetura meridionalis
Quite common near Guaramiranga on 15 and 16 November. Heard at Camamu on 27 November.

Fork-tailed Palm-Swift Tachornis furcata
Common anywhere near palms and seen on seven dates.

Lesser Swallow-tailed Swift Panyptila cayennensis
Ones and twos near Murici on 25 and 27 November.

Black Jacobin Florisuga fusca
Up to three at Camamu and at Boa Nova on 28 and 30 November.

Rufous-breasted Hermit Glaucis hirsutus
Seen in small numbers on four dates and most regularly near Guaramiranga.

Broad-tipped Hermit Anopetia gounellei
We had repeated close views of one individual in the Cerrado near Canudos on 21 November as it visited roadside flowers. Endemic to Brazil.

Reddish Hermit Phaethornis ruber
Seen in the forests of the Serra da Baturite on 15 and 17 November; Murici, where three were seen on 24 November; Estancia on 18 November and finally at Boa Nova on 29 November.

Planalto Hermit Phaethornis pretrei
Singles on two dates near Guaramiranga and near Mucuje.

Hooded Visorbearer Augastes lumachella
A pair on a very windswept plateau of Morro Pai Inacio near Lencois in the Chapada Diamantina on 2 December. Endemic to Brazil.

White-vented Violetear Colibri serrirostris
Small numbers on three dates at we neared the end of the tour in the Chapada Diamantina.

Ruby-topaz Hummingbird Chrysolampis mosquitus
Surprisingly common on the tour with a notable concentration at Lajedo in the afternoon of 29 November. Seen on seven dates.

Black-throated Mango Anthracothorax nigricollis
Seen on seven dates but only really numerous near Guaramiranga.

Racket-tailed Coquette Discosura longicaudus
A cracking male seen at Camamu on 27 November.

Frilled Coquette Lophornis magnificus
A male at Boa Nova on 29 November. 

Stripe-breasted Starthroat Heliomaster squamosus
Singles seen near Guaramiranga on 15 and 16 November.

Amethyst Woodstar Calliphlox amethystina
Two on 30 November near Mucuje.

Blue-tailed Emerald Chlorostilbon mellisugus
One at Camamu on 27 November.

Swallow-tailed Hummingbird Eupetomena macroura
Widespread in small numbers, seen on ten dates.

Fork-tailed Woodnymph Thalurania furcata
Up to six seen on seven dates at Guaramiranga, Petrolina and Canudos.

Long-tailed Woodnymph Thalurania watertonii
One on 23 November near Murici was our only record. Endemic to Brazil.

Violet-capped Woodnymph Thalurania glaucopis
Small numbers at Camamu and Boa Nova between 27 and 29 November. Restricted to Atlantic Forests.

Sombre Hummingbird Aphantochroa cirrochloris
Singles at Murici Biological Station on 24 November; Camamu on 27 November and Boa Nova on 30 November. Endemic to Brazil.

Versicolored Emerald Amazilia versicolor
One at Camamu on 27 November.

Glittering-throated Emerald Amazilia fimbriata
Seen at Guaramiranga on 16 November and near Ibocoara on 1 December.

Sapphire-spangled Emerald Amazilia lactea
Small numbers at Boa Nova and near Mucuje.

Rufous-throated Sapphire Hylocharis sapphirina
Three on 27 November at Camamu.

White-chinned Sapphire Hylocharis cyanus
Two at Camamu on 27 November.

Blue-crowned Trogon Trogon curucui
Small numbers seen near Guaramiranga, Serra da Araripe, Canudos and Mucuje.

Surucua Trogon Trogon surrucura
A pair at Chapada Diamantina on 2 December.

Black-throated Trogon Trogon rufus
Heard at Murici and Camamu but wouldn’t be tempted by playback.

Ringed Kingfisher Megaceryle torquata
Seen on four dates and often from the vehicle between birding sites.

Amazon Kingfisher Chloroceryle amazona
Four seen on 17 November as we travelled from Guaramiranga to Crato and one at Camacan on 28 November.

Rufous-tailed Jacamar Galbula ruficauda
Small numbers on eight dates.

White-eared Puffbird Nystalus chacuru
Heard at the forest edge of Camamu on 27 November and one seen well on 2 December near Morro Pai Inacio.

Spot-backed Puffbird Nystalus maculatus
First seen as we stopped in some Caatinga habitat between Guaramiranga and Crato on 17 November and then near Crato on 20 November and Petrolina the next day.

Crescent-chested Puffbird Malacoptila striata
One seen at Boa Nova on 29 and 30 November.

Swallow-winged Puffbird Chelidoptera tenebrosa
One at Camamu on 27 November.

Channel-billed Toucan Ramphastos vitellinus
Heard at Murici and Camamu.

Gould’s Toucanet Selenidera gouldii
A stunning male seen in the Baturite Mountains near Guaramiranga on 15 November and heard there the next day.

Lettered Aracari Pteroglossus inscriptus
Two at Serra do Ouro near Murici on 23 November.

Black-necked Aracari Pteroglossus aracari
Seen in the Murici and Serra do Ouro area 23 – 25 November (up to ten in a day) and eight seen at Camamu on 27 November.

Golden-spangled Piculet Picumnus exilis
Heard at Murici and finally seen at Camamu on 27 November.

Spotted Piculet Picumnus pygmaeus
A pair at Petrolina on 20 November and heard at Canudos the next day.

White-barred Piculet Picumnus cirratus
Two at Boa Nova on 29 November.

Tawny Piculet Picumnus fulvescens
This piculet was heard in the Serra da Araripe and near Murici but just would not show. Endemic to Brazil.

Ochraceous Piculet Picumnus limae
Quite easily seen in the Baturite Mountains near Guaramiranga where we saw three on 15 November and two the next day. Endemic to Brazil.

Little Woodpecker Veniliornis passerinus
Two seen in the Baturite Mountains near Guaramiranga on 16 and 16 November were apparently of the subspecies taenionotus with its golden-olive tone to the upperparts, more prominently spotted wing-coverts and appreciably more barred underparts.

Red-stained Woodpecker Veniliornis affinis
Heard at Murici on 24 November and one seen there the next morning.

Yellow-eared Woodpecker Veniliornis maculifrons
One at Boa Nova on 29 November was the only sighting of this Atlantic Forest speciality. Endemic to Brazil.

Yellow-throated Woodpecker Piculus flavigula
Seen on five dates in Murici, Camamu and Boa Nova.

Campo Flicker Colaptes campestris
One at Siberia Water near Mucuje on 1 December.

Blond-crested Woodpecker Celeus flavescens
One seen near Guaramiranga on 15 November (where it was heard on subsequent dates too) and heard at Flora Araripe reserve near Crato.

Lineated Woodpecker Drycopus lineatus
Four seen on 26 November at Estancia, one at Camacan and heard at Boa Nova.

Rufous-breasted Leaftosser Sclerurus scansor
Seen in the Baturite Mountains near Guaramiranga on 15 and two on16 November; one in the Serra da Araripe at Flona Araripe on 19 November. A good showing of this sometimes hard-to-see Atlantic Forest endemic.

Wing-banded Hornero Furnarius figulus
Recorded on eight dates during the tour but nowhere really numerous. Endemic to Brazil.

Pale-legged Hornero Furnarius leucopus
Seen on five dates. Common near Guaramiranga and a few near Petrolina.

Rufous Hornero Furnarius rufus
Quite common during the last three days of the tour in the Chapada Diamantina.

Bahia Spinetail Synallaxis whitneyi
Up to eight seen on 29 and 30 November in the humid forest at Boa Nova. This range restricted species was once considered a subspecies of Rufous-capped Spinetail S. ruficapilla and is considered endangered. Endemic to Brazil.

Sooty-fronted Spinetail Synallaxis frontalis
Two near Crato on 18 November. Also seen in the Chapada Diamantina on 2 December.

Pale-breasted Spinetail Synallaxis albescens
One near Petrolina on 20 November and a couple near Ibocoara on 30 November and 1 December.

Spix’s Spinetail Synallaxis spixi
Five in the Chapada Diamantina on 2 December.

Cinereous-breasted Spinetail Synallaxis hypospodia
Seen in small numbers near Petrolina and Canudos 19 – 21 November. This species remained difficult to see and was often the subject of territorial disputes with Red-shouldered Spinetail Gylaphylax hellmayri (which invariably won!).

Ochre-cheeked Spinetail Synallaxis scutata
This ornate spinetail was seen well in the Baturite Mountains near Guaramiranga on 15 November. Also seen in the Serra da Araripe at Flona Araripe on 18 and 19 November.

Red-shouldered Spinetail Gyalophylax hellmayri
Quite easily seen in the Serra da Araripe and near Petrolina 18 – 20 November. Endemic to Brazil.

Pallid Spinetail Cranioleuca pallida
Two seen in the Boa Nova humid forest on 30 November where it was heard the previous day. Endemic to Brazil.

Grey-headed Spinetail Cranioleuca semicinerea
Easily seen in the Baturite Mountains near Guaramiranga and Serra da Araripe forests 14 – 19 November. Endemic to Brazil.

Yellow-chinned Spinetail Certhiaxis cinnamomeus
Recorded on six dates, always near wetlands of some kind.

Striated Softtail Thripophaga macroura
Up to ten seen in a day 29 – 30 November in the humid forests of Boa Nova. Endangered and endemic to Brazil.

Rufous-fronted Thornbird Phacellodomus rufifrons
Heard near Petrolina and up to six birds seen in the scrub near Boa Nova 29 and 30 November.

Pink-legged Graveteiro Acrobatornis fonsecai
Well, they made us wait! We eventually found two at Camacan on 28 November, only recently discovered (1996) and endemic to Brazil.

Caatinga Cacholote Pseudoseisura cristata
Up to eight seen on five dates 17 – 22 November between Crato and Canudos where Caatinga habitat prevailed. Endemic to Brazil.

Pernambuco Foliage-gleaner Automolus lammi
We heard this call briefly at Murici on 24 November but like many birds there, it didn’t respond to playback. Recently split from the next species. Endemic to Brazil.

White-eyed Foliage-gleaner Automolus leucopthalmus
One seen well at Camamu on 27 November.

Pale-browed Treehunter Cichlocolaptes leucophrus
Heard in the humid forest at Boa Nova on 29 November. Endemic to Brazil.

Sharp-tailed Streamcreeper Lochmias nematura
Heard at Chapada Diamantina on the Rio Paraguacu on 1 December.

Great Xenops Megaxenops parnaguae
We eventually obtained good views of this strange bird in the Caatinga of the Serra do Araripe on 18 and 19 November. Endemic to Brazil.

Plain Xenops Xenops minutus
Singles at Murici on 23 and 24 November.

Streaked Xenops Xenops rutilans
Singles at Camacan on 28 November and Boa Nova on 30 November.

Plain-brown Woodcreeper Dendrocincla fuliginosa
One of the subspecies turdina (Plain-winged Woodcreeper D. turdina for some authorities) was seen at Boa Nova on 29 November.

Olivaceous Woodcreeper Sittasomus griseicapillus
Heard in the Serra do Araripe at Flona Araripe on 18 and 19 November with one seen at Camamu on 27 November. Heard at Chapada Diamantina on 2 December.

Wedge-billed Woodcreeper Glyphorynchus spirurus
One at Camamu on 27 November.

Straight-billed Woodcreeper Dendroplex picus
Regularly encountered around Guaramiranga 15 – 17 November and heard at Camamu.

Lesser Woodcreeper Xiphorhynchus fuscus
Singles on 14 and 16 November near Guaramiranga.

Buff-throated Woodcreeper Xiphorhynchus guttatus
Two at Guaramiranga on 16 November and heard at Camamu.

Narrow-billed Woodcreeper Lepidocolaptes angustirostris
Singles seen on 20 and 21 November near Petrolina and Canudos.

Red-billed Scythebill Campylorhamphus trochilirostris
One seen in the Caatinga of the Serra do Araripe on 18 November.

Black-billed Scythebill Campylorhamphus falcularis
One seen well in the humid forest of Boa Nova on 30 November where it was heard the previous day. An Atlantic Forest endemic.

Spot-backed Antshrike Hypoedaleus guttatus
We heard the Atlantic Forest endemic at Boa Nova on 30 November but it remained distant at could not be seen.

Tufted Antshrike Mackenziaena leachii
Great views of a pair at Boa Nova on 29 and 30 November. Another Atlantic Forest endemic species.

Great Antshrike Taraba major
A pair showed regularly in the clearing near our hotel at Guaramiranga on 15 and 16 November.

Silvery-cheeked Antshrike Sakesphorus cristatus
Seen in Caatinga habitat in the Serra do Araripe on 18 November where a pair showed and were heard calling the following day. Better views were obtained in the Caatinga near Boa Nova and Chapada Diamantina between 29 November and 2 December. Endemic to Brazil.

Barred Antshrike Thamnophilus doliatus
Several birds of the subspecies capistratus were observed near Crato, Petrolina and Canudos. The orange-red eye of the male was noted and the barring on the underparts appeared to be thicker. The females have faint barring to the chest but this was more difficult to discern.

Rufous-winged Antshrike Thamnophilus torquatus
Two seen at Camamu on 27 November and pairs seen on 1 and 2 December at Chapada Diamantina.

Chestnut-backed Antshrike Thamnophilus palliatus
A male at Camamu on 27 November.

Planalto Slaty- Antshrike Thamnophilus pelzini
Two pairs seen at Flona Araripe on 18 and 19 November. Endemic to Brazil.

Sooretama Slaty-Antshrike Thamnophilus ambiguus
One at Estancia on 26 November and two the next day at Camamu. Endemic to Brazil.

Variable Antshrike Thamnophilus caerulescens
Up to three seen near Guaramiranga 14 – 16 November and heard at Boa Nova.

White-shouldered Antshrike Thamnophilus aethiops
One at Murici on 24 November was our only record.

Spot-breasted Antvireo Dysithamnus stictothorax
This Atlantic Forest endemic was seen in small numbers at Boa Nova on 29 and 30 November.

Plain Antvireo Dysithamnus mentalis
Up to six birds in a day at Guaramiranga and Murici.

Cinereous Antshrike Thamnomanes caesius
One showed very well at Camamu on 27 November.

White-flanked Antwren Myrmotherula axillaries
A couple of pairs seen at the Murici Biological Station on 23 and 24 November and a single at Camamu on 27 November.

Alagoas Antwren Myrmotherula snowi
After extensive searching two pairs of this critically endangered species were located in the forests of Murici on 24 November. Endemic to Brazil.

Stripe-backed Antbird Myrmorchilus strigilatus
Seen in the Caatinga of the Serra do Araripe on 18 November, Boa Nova on 29 November and heard in the Chapada Diamantina.

Caatinga Antwren Herpsilochmus sellowi

Singles located in the Caatinga of the Serra do Araripe and near Petrolina 18 – 20 November. Endemic to Brazil.

Black-capped Antwren Herpsilochmus atricapillus
Quite common in the Guaramiranga and Crato area 15 – 19 November.

Rufous-winged Antwren Herpislochmus rufimarginatus
Common at Murici on 24 November but stayed in the subcanopy and was hard to observe there. Heard at Estancia, Camamu and Boa Nova.

Narrow-billed Antwren Formicivora iheringi
A pair at Boa Nova on 29 November. Endemic to Brazil.

Black-bellied Antwren Formicivora melanogaster
One of the most frequently encountered antwrens of the tour with records from seven dates.

Sincora Antwren Formicivora grantsaui
We found a female without too much effort one morning in the rocky scrub of the Chapada Diamantina near Mucuje. Endemic to Brazil and only described in 2007.

Ferruginous Antbird Drymophila ferruginea
This Atlantic Forest bird was seen on 29 and 30 November in the humid forest of Boa Nova. Endemic to Brazil.

Scaled Antbird Drymophila squamata
This handsome Atlantic Forest endemic was seen in the forests of Camamu on 27 November (male and female). Endemic to Brazil.

Orange-bellied Antwren Terenura sicki
If there was one disappointing aspect of this tour it was our failure to encounter canopy species. Frustratingly we heard this rare bird in Murici but couldn’t see it. Endemic to Brazil.

Rio de Janeiro Antbird Cercomacra brasiliana
Quite vocal and easily located in the humid forest at Boa Nova. We saw a pair on 29 November and the male the next day. Endemic to Brazil.

White-backed Fire-eye Pyriglena leuconota
Heard near Guaramiranga and up to three seen at Murici 22 – 24 November.

Fringe-backed Fire-eye Pyriglena atra
This extremely rare antbird was seen well on 26 November near Estancia, where we saw a pair in dry forest. Endemic to Brazil.

White-shouldered Antbird Pyriglena leucoptera
This Atlantic Forest endemic was regularly encountered towards the end of the tour near Boa Nova and Chapada Diamantina 29 November – 2 December.

Slender Antbird Rhopornis ardesiacus
We had great views of this endangered species in the Caatinga above Boa Nova on 29 November when a pair showed well. We also heard this species at the nearby Lajedo site the following day. Endemic to Brazil.

Scalloped Antbird Myrmeciza ruficauda
Another species that gave us the run-around in Murici, but made it all worthwhile when it gave itself up. Two birds seen on 23 and 24 November. Endemic to Brazil.

Short-tailed Antthrush Chamaeza campanisoma
Heard in the Baturite Mountains near Guaramiranga on 16 November.

White-browed Antpitta Hylopezus ochroleucus
One seen well after a lot of effort on the part of the group in Flona Araripe on 18 November. Heard at the same site the next day. Endemic to Brazil.

Rufous Gnateater Conopophaga lineata
Birds of the subspecies caerae were seen quite easily in the Baturite Mountains near Guaramiranga on 16 and 17 November. Also seen at Boa Nova on 30 November.

Black-cheeked Gnateater Conopophaga melanops
Heard at Murici on 24 November and one seen at Camamu on 27 November. Endemic to Brazil.

Diamantina Tapaculo Scytalopus diamantinensis
On 1 December we had pretty good views (for a tapaculo) of this recently discovered species as one sung in the depths of riverine scrub by the Rio Paraguacu in the Chapada Diamantina. Endemic to Brazil.

Collared Crescentchest Melanopareia torquata
Seen in the Chapada Diamantina on 30 November and 1 December. Two were seen hopping along the trail in the open on the latter date.

Planalto Tyrannulet Phyllomyias fasciatus
Up to ten seen daily near Guaramiranga 14 – 17 November and one at Flona Araripe on 19 November.

Forest Elaenia Myiopagis gaimardii
Heard at Serra do Ouro near Murici on 25 November.

Grey Elaenia Myiopagis caniceps
A male at Flona Araripe on 19 November.

Yellow-bellied Elaenia Elaenia flavogaster
Seen on ten dates.

Large Elaenia Elaenia spectabilis
Seen in small numbers on eight dates.

Plain-crested Elaenia Elaenia cristata
Quite common in the Chapada Diamantina 30 November – 2 December.

Highland Elaenia Elaenia obscura
Two in the Chapada Diamantina on 2 December.

Southern Beardless-Tyrannulet Camptostoma obsoletum
Common at the start and end of the tour in the Baturite Mountains and Chapada Diamantina.

Suiriri Flycatcher Suiriri suiriri
A pair seen well (subspecies affinis) near Petrolina on 20 November.

Mouse-coloured Tyrannulet Phaeomyias murina
Up to four seen in a day near Guaramiranga 15 – 16 November, five in the Serra do Araripe on 19 November and common near Petrolina the next day.

Yellow Tyrannulet Capsiempis flaveola
Common near Guaramiranga, Camamu and in the humid forest of Boa Nova.

Grey-backed Tachuri Polystictus superciliaris
We saw this bird of rocky grasslands at Chapada Diamantina; a pair observed at close range near the Rio Paraguacu on 1 December. Endemic to Brazil.

Tawny-crowned Pygmy-Tyrant Euscarthmus meloryphus
Recorded on four dates at Flona Araripe, Petrolina and in the Caatinga above Boa Nova.

Rufous-sided Pygmy-Tyrant Euscarthmus rufomarginatus
One in the Cerrado habitat near Mucuje on 2 December.

Lesser Wagtail-Tyrant Stigmatura napensis
Common near Petrolina on 20 November and Canudos the following day.

Greater Wagtail-Tyrant Stigmatura budytoides
Seen well near Petrolina on 20 November.

Ochre-bellied Flycatcher Mionectes oleagineus
Heard at Camamu on 27 November.

Sepia-capped Flycatcher Leptopogon amaurocephalus
Heard on three dates.

Southern Scrub-Flycatcher Sublegatus modestus
One seen well near Petrolina on 20 November.

White-eyed Tody-Tyrant Hemitriccus zosterops
A couple at Murici on two dates.

Stripe-necked Tody-Tyrant Hemitriccus striaticollis
Two seen at Estancia on 26 November gave excellent views eventually.

Hangnest Tody-Tyrant Hemitriccus nidipendulus
Two seen in the Caatinga above Boa Nova on 29 November. Endemic to Brazil.

Pearly-vented Tody-Tyrant Hemitriccus margaritaceiventer
Recorded on five dates and best seen at the Serra do Araripe on 18 November and near Petrolina on 20 November.

Buff-breasted Tody-Tyrant Hemitriccus mirandae
Easily seen in the Baturite Mountains near Guaramiranga on 15 – 16 November (including the hotel grounds). Also heard in Flona Araripe. Restricted to the north-east of the country. Endemic to Brazil.

Fork-tailed Pygmy-Tyrant Hemitriccus furcatus
Sterling work by Fred ensured we all got this little skulker in a small patch of bamboo in the Boa Nova humid forest. We saw it on 29 and 30 November. Endemic to Brazil.

Grey-headed Tody-Flycatcher Todirostrum polocephalum
This Atlantic Forest endemic was seen well at Camamu on 27 November and in Boa Nova (where up to six birds were found) on 29 and 30 November.

Common Tody-Flycatcher Todirostrum cinereum
Widespread and recorded on nine dates.

Yellow-olive Flycatcher Tolmomyias sulphurescens
Singles near Guaramiranga, Camamu and Boa Nova.

Yellow-breasted Flycatcher Tolmomyias flaviventris
Recorded on nine dates and most common near Guaramiranga in the Baturite Mountains where up to ten were seen in a day.

White-throated Spadebill Platyrinchus mystaceus
Seen near Guaramiranga on 16 November.

Bran-coloured Flycatcher Myiophobus fasciatus
Small numbers near Guaramiranga and Boa Nova.

Black-tailed Flycatcher Myiophobus atricaudatus
Up to three seen in the Baturite Mountains near Guaramiranga 15 – 16 November and Flona Araripe 18 – 19 November.

Cliff Flycatcher Hirundinea ferruginea
Two at Guaramiranga on 15 November; common near Canudos 21 November.

Euler’s Flycatcher Lathotriccus euleri
Recorded on six dates.

Fuscous Flycatcher Cnemotriccus fuscatus
Small numbers near Guaramiranga and in the Serra do Araripe.

Tropical Pewee Contopus cinereus
One at Boa Nova on 29 November.

Vermilion Flycatcher Pyrocephalus rubinus
A male near Petrolina on 20 November was the only one seen.

White-winged Black-Tyrant Knipolegus atterimus
We saw a couple of males of the endemic franciscanus subspecies (Caatinga or Brazilian Black-Tyrant for some authorities) at Canudos on 21 November and Morro Pai Inacio in the Chapada Diamantina on 2 December.

White Monjita Xolmis irupero
This stunning flycatcher was seen on four dates near Canudos and Boa Nova.

Black-backed Water-Tyrant Fluvicola albiventer
Seen on three dates with most near Petrolina.

Masked Water-Tyrant Fluvicola nengeta
Widespread and seen on thirteen dates in good numbers.

White-headed Marsh-Tyrant Arundinicola leucocephala
Small numbers at roadside wetlands on four dates.

Long-tailed Tyrant Colonia colonus
Seen at Camamu and Boa Nova.

Cattle Tyrant Machetornis rixosa
Seen on two dates in grasslands.

Piratic Flycatcher Legatus leucophaius
Seen near Murici on 25 November.

Social Flycatcher Myiozetes similis
Common and seen most days.

Great Kiskadee Pitangus sulphuratus
Small numbers on most days of the tour.

Streaked Flycatcher Myiodynastes maculatus
Small numbers in the Baturite Mountains, Serra do Araripe and at Camamu.

Boat-billed Flycatcher Megarynchus pitangua
Small numbers on nine dates.

Variegated Flycatcher Empidonimus varius
Singles at Guaramiranga (17 Nov.), Serra do Araripe (19 Nov.), Murici (23 Nov.) and Camamu (27 Nov.).

White-throated Kingbird Tyrannus albogularis
Two near the Rio Paraguacu on 1 December.

Tropical Kingbird Tyrannus melancholicus
Seen every day.

Ash-throated Casiornis Casiornis fuscus
Singles in the Serra do Araripe 18 and 19 November. Endemic to Brazil.

Swainson’s Flycatcher Myiarchus swainsoni
One at Boa Nova on 29 November.

Short-crested Flycatcher Myiarchus ferox
Up to three birds near Guaramiranga 14 – 16 November.

Brown-crested Flycatcher Myiarchus tyrannus
One near Petrolina on 20 November and another in the Chapada Diamantina on 2 December.

Grey-hooded Attila Attila rufus
Heard in the distance at Boa Nova.

Bright-rumped Attila Attila spadiceus
One seen at Murici on 24 November.

Black-headed Berryeater Carpornis melanocephala
Recorded in Murici on two dates and seen well on 23 November. Endemic to Brazil.

Screaming Piha Lipaugus vociferans
Two seen at Murici on 24 November.

Bare-throated Bellbird Procnias nudicollis
Two seen at Camamu on 27 November.

White-winged Cotinga Xipholena atropurpurea
At least two males and a female at Camamu on 27 November. Endemic to Brazil.

Pale-bellied Tyrant-Manakin Neopelma pallescens
Up to six seen at Flona Araripe 18 and 19 November.

Pin-tailed Manakin Illcura militaris
A couple seen in Boa Nova on 29 and 30 November. Endemic to Brazil.

Striped Manakin Machaeropterus regulus
Two seen at Camamu on 27 November. The Amazonian striolatus is often considered to be a different species to the nominate eastern Brazil subspecies.

White-bearded Manakin Manacus manacus
Heard near Guaramiranga and a couple seen on two dates at Murici.

Araripe Manakin Antilophia bokermanni
Perhaps the star bird of the tour? We had great views of two males and females in the Serra do Araripe on 17 November. Endemic to Brazil and a very small known range and population.

Blue-backed Manakin Chiroxiphia pareola
Seen on five dates at Murici (up to six birds), Estancia and Camamu 25 – 28 November.

Swallow-tailed Manakin Chiroxiphia caudata
A couple seen in Boa Nova humid forest on two dates.

White-crowned Manakin Pipra pipra
A male and a female at Camamu on 27 November.

Band-tailed Manakin Pipra fasciicauda
Up to five individuals (many stunning males) on two dates near Guaramiranga.

Red-headed Manakin Pipra rubrocapilla
Small numbers (max. 4 seen in a day) at Murici and Camamu.

Black-tailed Tityra Tityra cayana
One near Murici on 24 November.

Thrush-like Schiffornis Schiffornis turdina
Heard on two dates in Murici.

White-naped Xenopsaris Xenopsaris albinucha
Three seen very well indeed near Petrolina on 20 November.

Green-backed Becard Pachyramphus viridis
One male seen in the Serra do Araripe on 19 November.

Chestnut-crowned Becard Pachyramphus castaneus
Two seen in Boa Nova 29 and 30 November.

White-winged Becard Pachyramphus polychopterus
Singles at Murici 23 and 24 November.

Crested Becard Pachyramphus validus
One seen at Murici 23 November.

Rufous-browed Peppershrike Cyclarhis gujanensis
Common and widespread, recorded on ten dates.

Red-eyed Vireo Vireo olivaceus
Small numbers on four dates.

Grey-eyed Greenlet Hylophilus amaurocephalus
Heard at Flona Araripe on 18 November and seen the following day in the transitional Caatinga – forest in the Serra do Araripe. Endemic to Brazil.

Lemon-chested Greenlet Hylophilus thoracicus
One seen well at Camamu on 27 November. Thereafter we recorded this species in Boa Nova and at Chapada Diamantina.

White-naped Jay Cyanocorax cyanopogon
Common in the Caatinga near Crato, Canudos and Chapada Diamantina. Endemic to Brazil.

Blue-and-white Swallow Pygochelidon cyanoleuca
Surprisingly scarce with small numbers near Guaramiranga, Boa Nova and Ibocoara.

Southern Rough-winged Swallow Stelgidopteryx ruficollis
Common, recorded on sixteen dates.

Brown-chested Martin Progne tapera
Two at Camamu on 28 November and up to three in the Chapada Diamantina were the only records.

Grey-breasted Martin Progne chalybea
Common and widespread, seen on fourteen dates.

White-winged Swallow Tachycineta albiventer
One near Murici on 22 November and a single at Estancia were the only records until Camamu on 27 November where we saw at least ten birds.

Bank Swallow Riparia riparia
Several near Petrolina on 20 November.

Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica
Recorded on six dates but only common near Petrolina on 19 November where over a hundred were seen at a pre-roost gathering.

House Wren Troglodytes aedon
Widespread in small numbers, seen on twelve dates.

Thrush-like Wren Campylorhynchus turdinus
One at Camamu on 27 November was the only record.

Moustached Wren Thryothorus genibarbis
Widespread and seen on nine dates.

Long-billed Wren Thryothorus longirostris
Singles at Petrolina on 20 November and Chapada Diamantina on 1 December. Endemic to Brazil.

Long-billed Gnatwren Ramphocaenus melanurus
Recorded on five dates but only seen at Murici on 24 November.

Tropical Gnatcatcher Polioptila plumbea
Common in the Caatinga zones near Crato and Canudos with a few in the Chapada Diamantina.

Black-capped Donacobius Donacobius atricapilla
Heard in the distance at Boa Nova on 29 November.

Pale-breasted Thrush Turdus leucomelas
Common around Guaramiranga and in the Serra do Araripe. Smaller numbers near Camamu and in the Chapada Diamantina.

Rufous-bellied Thrush Turdus rufiventris
Common, seen on thirteen dates.

Creamy-bellied Thrush Turdus amaurochalinus
Singles near Petrolina on 20 November and Boa Nova on 29 November.

Tropical Mockingbird Mimus gilvus
One on 20 November was the only record.

Chalk-browed Mockingbird Mimus saturninus
Common near Canudos and near Mucuje.

Yellowish Pipit Anthus lurescens
One seen by the leader only near Murici on 25 November.

Red-cowled Cardinal Paroaria dominicana
Quite common near Guaramiranga, Crato and Canudos. Endemic to Brazil.

Cinnamon Tanager Schistochlamys ruficapillus
Two in the Serra do Araripe on 19 November and three in the rocky grasslands near Mucuje on 1 December.

White-banded Tanager Neothraupis fasciata
We saw this Cerrado specialist near Mucuje on 1 December.

Scarlet-throated Tanager Compsothraupis mesoleuca
Seen in small numbers in the Petrolina and Canudos areas 19 – 21 November. Endemic to Brazil.

Orange-headed Tanager Thlypopsis sordida
At least five seen near Guaramiranga 15 – 16 November and one in the Serra do Araripe on 18 November.

White-lined Tanager Tachyphonus rufus
Up to six seen near Canudos on 21 and 22 November with smaller numbers at Boa Nova and in the Chapada Diamantina.

Brazilian Tanager Ramphocelus bresilius
Seen at Estancia, Camamu (up to ten), Camacan and Boa Nova.

Sayaca Tanager Thraupis sayaca
Common, seen on sixteen dates.

Azure-shouldered Tanager Thraupis cyanoptera
Two were seen at Boa Nova on 29 November. Endemic to Brazil.

Golden-chevroned Tanager Thraupis ornata
Common at Boa Nova. Endemic to Brazil.

Palm Tanager Thraupis palmarum
Common.

Burnished-buff Tanager Tangara cayana
Reasonably common with records from nine dates. Eight were seen in the Serra do Araripe on 21c November.

Turquoise Tanager Tangara mexicana
Fifteen seen at Camamu on 27 November.

Opal-rumped Tanager Tangara velia
Up to five seen at Serra do Ouro (Murici) on 23 November and 25 November and at Camamu on 27 November.

Seven-coloured Tanager Tangara fastuosa
At least ten seen at Serra do Ouro near Murici on 23 November. Endemic to Brazil.

Red-necked Tanager Tangara cyanocephala
Very common at the start of the tour in the Baturite Mountains near Guaramiranga 14 – 17 November.

Gilt-edged Tanager Tangara cyanoventris
Up to four seen at Boa Nova on 29 and 30 November and two at Chapada Diamantina on 2 December. Endemic to Brazil.

Blue Dacnis Dacnis cayana
Quite common near Guaramiranga 14 – 17 November and smaller numbers seen at Murici, Estancia and Camamu.

Red-legged Honeycreeper Cyanerpes cyaneus
Small numbers at Estancia and Camamu on 26 and 27 November.

Green Honeycreeper Chlorophanes spiza
Small numbers on two dates.

Guira Tanager Hemithraupis guira
Up to three at Guaramiranga on 15 and 16 November.

Rufous-headed Tanager Hemithraupis ruficapilla
Up to three at Camamu, Boa Nova and Chapada Diamantina. Endemic to Brazil.

Yellow-backed Tanager Hemithraupis flavicollis
Two at Murici on 24 November.

Chestnut-vented Conebill Conirostrum speciosum
A pair at Petrolina on 20 November.

Bananaquit Coereba flaveola
Very common.

Sooty Grassquit Tiaris fuliginosus
One at Camamu on 27 November.

Black-throated Grosbeak Saltator fuliginosus
This Atlantic Forest endemic was seen at Boa Nova where two were seen on 29 November.

Buff-throated Saltator Saltator maximus
Common in the Murici, Estancia and Camamu areas 23 – 27 November.

Green-winged Saltator Saltator similis
Quite common at Boa Nova on 29 and 30 November.

Black-throated Saltator Saltator atricollis
Singles at Canudos on 21 and 22 November.

Rufous-collared Sparrow Zonotrichia capensis
Regularly seen in the Serra do Araripe, Canudos and Chapada Diamantina.

Grassland Sparrow Ammodramus humeralis
Singles en route to Petrolina on 19 November, Boa Nova on 29 November and Chapada Diamantina 1 December.

Saffron Finch Sicalis flaveola
Only numerous near Petrolina on 20 November; also seen in small numbers near Camamu and Boa Nova.

Wedge-tailed Grass-Finch Emeberizoides herbicola
Three near Morro Pai Inacio on 2 December.

Pale-throated Pampa-Finch Embernagra longicauda
At least six seen on and near Morro Pai Inacio on the Chapada Diamantina on 2 December. Endemic to Brazil.

Blue-black Grassquit Volatinia jacarina
Small numbers on four dates.

Yellow-bellied Seedeater Sporophila nigricollis
Up to ten seen on six dates, most numerous near Guaramiranga.

Double-collared Seedeater Sporophila caerulescens
Singles at Boa Nova on 29 and 30 November.

White-bellied Seedeater Sporophila leucoptera
One at Camamu on 27 November and two at Boa Nova on 29 November.

Pectoral Sparrow Arremon taciturnus
Seen on eight dates and most seen near Guaramiranga at the start of the tour.

Sao Francisco Sparrow Arremon franciscanus
Two seen near Palmeiras on 2 December. Only recently described. Endemic to Brazil.

Pileated Finch Coryphospingus pileatus
Common in the Serra do Araripe and near Canudos.

Hepatic Tanager Piranga flava
A pair near Canudos on 21 November.

Red-crowned Ant-Tanager Habia rubica
Four at Boa Nova on 30 November.

Yellow-green Grosbeak Caryothraustes canadensis
Two at Murici on 23 November and twelve at Camamu on 27 November.

Ultramarine Grosbeak Cyanocompsa brissonii
Pairs seen in the Caatinga of Serra do Araripe on 18 and 19 November and on two dates at Canudos.

Tropical Parula Parula pitiayumi
A pair seen at Camacan on 28 November and heard at Boa Nova the following day.

Golden-crowned Warbler Basileuterus culicivorus
Common near Guaramiranga and small numbers at Boa Nova.

Flavescent Warbler Basileuterus flaveolus
Two seen at Flona Araripe on 18 November and heard on five dates elsewhere.

Yellow-rumped Cacique Cacicus cela
Three near Camamu on 17 November.

Red-rumped Cacique Cacicus haemorrhous
Up to six at Estancia, Camamu and Boa Nova.

Campo Troupial Icterus jamacaii
Singles on five dates near Guaramiranga, Petrolina, Canudos and Camamu. Endemic to Brazil.

Epaulet Oriole Icterus cayenensis
Three seen at Serra do Ouro near Murici on 23 November.

Chopi Blackbird Gnorimopsar chopi
Seen on seven dates.

Chestnut-capped Blackbird Chrysomus ruficapillus
Five at Petrolina on 20 November.

Shiny Cowbird Molothrus bonariensis
Seen on ten dates.

White-browed Blackbird Sturnella superciliaris
Small numbers on six dates.

Purple-throated Euphonia Euphonia chlorotica
Common, seen on ten dates.

Violaceous Euphonia Euphonia violacea
Up to four seen near Guaramiranga 15 – 16 November and two at Murici on 24 November. Up to four at Camamu and Camacan 27 – 28 November.

Golden-rumped Euphonia Euphonia cyanocephala
A pair at Boa Nova on 29 November.

Chestnut-bellied Euphonia Euphonia pectoralis
This Atlantic Forest endemic was seen at Camamu on 27 November when a male was seen.

Blue-naped Chlorophonia Chlorophonia cyanea
Two seen at Murici on 23 November.

Common Waxbill Estrilda astrild
Common near Petrolina.

House Sparrow Passer domesticus
Common.

Mammals

White Tufted-ear Marmosets Callithric jacchus were seen at Guaramiranga, Petrolina and near Canudos.
Crab-eating Fox Cerdocyon thous was seen at Canudos and Murici.
Cavy sp. Cavia sp. was seen at Morro Pai Inacio.
Brazilian Porcupine Coendou prehensilis was seen at Murici Biological Station.
Brazilian Rabbit Sylvilagus brasiliensis was seen at Murici.
Masked Titi Monkey Callicebus personatus was heard at Estancia and Camamu.

Also the snake we saw at Murici was Bothrops muriciensis (very rare with few photographic records apparently).

Acknowledgements.
Thanks to John, Jane, Tony, Elizabeth, Stan, Carole and Duncan for their company and sense of humour and adventure throughout the tour. The success of any tour depends on our ground agents and Homero, Fred and Edusao deserve immense credit for their assistance prior to and throughout the tour. I would also like to thank Duncan Ritchie for his extensive literature search regarding some of the subspecies seen on the tour and sharing his findings with me.

References

Woodpeckers: A Guide to the Woodpeckers, Piculets and Wrynecks of the World, Hans Winkler, David A Christie & David Nurney, Pica Press, 1995

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