The Simple Beauty of the Blue-gray Tanager

Blue-gray Tanager of West (Traupis episcopus)

The Blue-gray Tanager is probably one of the most commonly seen and easily recognized birds of the Andes foothills in Ecuador, whether it is the western or eastern slope. It can be observed foraging in trees and gardens and predominates the activity at many fruit feeders. It is a ubiquitous passerine with a pleasant personality and a charming grace.

This is one of those birds that you can tire of seeing because of its simple colors and constant presence. Although it has a strikingly beautiful bluish gray hue, it is not as stunningly marked as other tanagers that frequent the area. One has to get over the unpretentiousness of it appearance and appreciate its classic allure.

In the Mindo valley the Blue-gray Tanager can be seen nervously gleaning the fruit trees in search of berries and other suitable morsels. But they are particularly susceptible to the siren’s call of the fruit feeders at Milpe Bird Sanctuary and Mirador Rio Blanco. Here you can see them dominating the various species as they forage for some delectable offerings. It is also quite common in the gardens of Hacienda San Vicente in the town of Mindo.

Blue-gray Tanager of East

On the eastern slopes the Blue-gray Tanager can be observed along the Loreto and Archidona Roads, traveling from Baeza to Tena. In Misahualli they can be seen frolicking in the trees along with various Squirrel Monkeys that inhabit the park in the center of town. I find the white coverlets of the eastern species of Blue-gray Tanager to give them a more striking appearance that the western race.

This beautiful passerine can be seen in large numbers as it travels in groups throughout its regions. It is also often seen in mixed flocks, foraging with other tanagers such as the Palm and Lemon-rumped on the western slope. When in gatherings they appear to blend in quietly but reveal a certain territorial aggressiveness around feeders

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For more detailed information on the Blue-gray Tanager go to my HubPages article here. Also see blog articles on Hacienda San Vicente, and Milpe Bird Sanctuary for locations to observe this beautiful species. 

Black-cheeked Woodpecker

Female Black-cheeked Woodpecker (Melanerpes cruentatus)

I have been categorizing the thousands of photos that I have taken over the last few months trying to decide which bird to write about next. It is not an easy decision as there are so many species and each has a uniqueness that can only be revealed through close observation. I settled on the Black-cheeked Woodpecker for its beauty and the abundant opportunity for encountering this amazing bird.

The Black-cheeked Woodpecker is most often seen in the humid forests below 800 m (2,600 ft.) but it can also be observed locally in the Mindo area up to 1,500 m (5,000 ft.). It darts behind tree trunks and gleans the larger branches of tall trees but it will come out in the open for a good view and some decent photos. It can be seen in mixed flocks with tanagers and is not extremely aggressive, allowing the other species to bully them.

Male Black-cheeked Woodpecker (Melanerpes cruentatus)

They are a colorful bird with the males and females fairly similar in markings. Look for the mid-crown to tell the difference, the male being red while the female is off-white.

The Black-cheeked Woodpecker is pretty much an insectivore but will eat fruits and berries when available. Small flocks have been known to cause significant damage to banana plantations and are considered a bane to farmers. There are tanager feeders at Milpe Bird Sanctuary and Mirador Rio Blanco and this lovely bird is known to frequent them along with the tanagers and other species.

While out walking in the lowlands and foothills of the western Andean rainforest be watchful for this magnificent woodpecker. Take a little time to observe its habits and idiosyncrasies to enjoy the full wonder of this wonderful species. 

A Few Notes on Some Fascinating Birds

Tawny Antpitta (Grallaria quitensis)

Over the past few days I have written technical articles on several different bird species of the Ecuadorian rainforest. Rather than repeat this information I would prefer to provide some of my own observations on this avifauna and furnish links back to the original articles for further study.

One of my favorite birds is the Tawny Antpitta. It is neither the most colorful bird nor the most obvious but it has a certain personality that makes it unique within its habitat. The Antpitta family of birds is generally very timid, hiding amongst the dense undergrowth and grasses. But the Tawny Antpitta defies this caricature and can easily be seen along roadsides and at the forest edges. At Yanacocha they have set up a feeding area where the birds can be called in to feast upon fresh worms dug up by the rangers. This little fellow enters proudly to scarf up the juicy morsels, almost oblivious to the fascinated observers. He will approach within a couple of meters showing little concern for the human interlopers. There is a certain pride and courage that is displayed while he perches on nearby branches and peruses his domain. I have yet to encounter a bird that exhibits this kind of personality. Although I have seen the Tawny Antpitta many times I will never grow tired of watching him in his natural habitat.

Ornate Flycatcher (Myiotriccus ornatus)

The Ornate Flycatcher is a cute little bird of the tropical rainforest. It is quite common around Mindo and can be found on both slopes of the Andes. It is captivating to watch them sitting on branches around the Milpe Bird Sanctuary, sallying quickly into the air to capture small insects and then returning to the branch from where they originated. They are a very colorful bird within the Tyrant Flycatcher family and are easily recognizable due to the large preocular spot that can be seen from a considerable distance.

Stout-billed Cinclodes
(Cinclodes excelsior)

Furnariids or Ovenbirds are an extremely daunting family of birds. There are over seventy-five species, not counting Woodcreepers, and can be found throughout Ecuador at all elevations. There similarities in habitats, habits and coloring make it difficult to identify the individual species, even after extended periods of observation. They are a very obscure creature, tree huggers you might say, staying close to the trunks and branches as they seek out insects and other prey. There color allows them to blend in well with their surroundings and their constant movement makes it difficult to see that pattern or peculiar difference that aids in identification. When encountering a Furnariid in the field you have to take good notes to ensure that you have guessed correctly. I tend to take as many photos of them as possible so that I can make sure of my decision on the species.

I hope this information will help on your next visit to the neotropics. Happy bird hunting. 

Black-tailed Trainbearer

Black-tailed Trainbearer - Male (Lesbia victoriae)

Although there are not a great variety of birds within the city limits of Quito Ecuador, there are some species that are quite impressive.  The Black-tailed Trainbearer (please see additional article for technical information) is a hummingbird that can be encountered within the confines of the city and will leave an everlasting impression on the observer. Its long flowing tail and energetic antics are a sight to see in the bustling environment of the downtown confines.

When I first arrived in Ecuador one of my earliest memories was seeing this magnificent creature visiting the flowers around the house where I lived. I later moved to a larger home where there was much more area for this visiting neighbor. The fruit trees in the back yard were a favorite habit for the Black-tailed Trainbearer as well as the Sparkling Violetear, a larger interloper that often resulted in quarrelsome exchanges concerning territorial disputes.

When I retired I moved to a much smaller house and I was afraid that my encounters with this lovely hummer would end. My patio area is less than the size of a normal bedroom and there are few flowers other than the tiny patch outside my front door. However, I was wonderfully surprised to see my diminutive friend resting in the ficus that I had placed outside my living room window. I have since then installed a feeder in this tree so that I can view his visits while I write my articles.

Female

A couple of months ago I was writing an article when I heard a very familiar sound directly above my head. A female Trainbearer had entered the door that I had left open for my dog Boo. She was trying furiously to escape her confines but only succeeded in beating her head repeatedly against the ceiling. I became very concerned about the health of the little creature, as I know that the metabolism of the hummingbird is such that they can become exhausted quite easily. After several frantic moments I was able to extricate her from the captivity within the house. I later notice marks on the ceiling left by tiny feathers that had been shed from the hummer’s head.

The Black-tailed Trainbearer can be very aggressive and quite territorial. I have seen them attack much larger birds in an effort to protect their treasure trove of nectar. I myself have had close encounters with them while photographing them for my writing. They can be approached rather closely, if one is cautious, and will sit quite still while you observe and record their behavior. Last summer, while taking an early morning walk down the empty streets of Quito, I was shocked to stumble across a mating pair of birds in the middle of the sidewalk of one of the normally busiest avenues of the shopping district. The male, with his elongated tail feathers separated to form a giant “V” for victory, ignored my advance and went about his routine. Unfortunately I did not have a camera to record this unique display of disconcerting behavior.

In a country that is home to over 130 different species of hummingbirds it is difficult to say exactly which one is your favorite. However, I would have to place the Black-tailed Trainbearer somewhere within the top ten for its distinctive features and outgoing personality. Whenever you have an opportunity to visit this exciting birding paradise do not pass up the occasion to spend some time observing this phenomenal bird.  

Club-winged Manakin, Tropical Rainforest Wonder

Club-winged Manakin (Machaeropterus deliciosus)

When I started this blog I wanted to provide information on the various birds of Ecuador. However, what I accomplished was repost technical articles on the different species that I had already written. In an effort to dispense more pertinent material I have decided to give my personal observation on the varied birds and direct the reader to my other articles to get more technical information. I hope this makes for a more pleasurable experience.

So today I want to talk about the Club-winged Manakin, an unusual bird that inhabits the tropical rainforests of Ecuador and Columbia. For technical information on this species please see my article titled “Club-winged Manakin – Tropical Rainforest Casanova”.

Manakins are fascinating in that they are the only bird species that manifest “stridulation”, the rubbing of two specific body parts together to produce a sound. This is used in the mating rituals of the male to attract a suitable mate. When encountering a Manakin “lek”, a social meeting place for this unique creature, one can expect frantic activity and a cacophony of strange, melodious sounds.

Milpe Bird Sanctuary in the Mindo Valley is a wonderful place to encounter this captivating bird. When you arrive you need to head for the first overlook (Mirador 1). Here you will find a sign indicating the Club-winged Manakin trail. Travel this path about 100 m and you will come to a small hide where you can sit and enjoy the festivities. On my last visit I had the reserve to myself so I was able to relax and observe these lively birds during their courtship dances. If you remain quiet and still, the males will come within a few yards providing an excellent view. Since this species is often seen and not heard, this location furnishes an unprecedented opportunity for the avid birder. A Japanese movie company had just recently been there to do a documentary on the Club-winged Manakin.

Male with wings lifted
to produce mating call

The male birds are very active, jumping from branch to branch, using the stridulation of their wings to attract a curious female. Several males will be within close proximity barking out metallic sounding noise with their wings. Although these birds inhabit the sub-canopy of the tropical rainforest, with the proper equipment it is possible to record this activity with little difficulty. The mating rituals will continue for many hours, increasing in intensity if a female shows interest. The males will then compete for the affections of the feminine visitor. It is not much different than what you would see if sitting in a bar observing the courtship habits of humans.

I had a rewarding visit to Milpe and a delightful morning with the Club-winged Manakin. I visit this sanctuary quite often and I never tire of observing this unique and wonderful bird. I would recommend this trip to anyone who wishes to encounter one of the wonders of nature. 

Antpitta of the Tropical Rainforest

Tawny Antpitta (Grallaria dignissima)
Photo taken at Yanacocha Reserve

The Antpitta, sometimes referred to as a “ground antbird”, is a plump little creature that stands majestically on its long legs. It is a woodland bird, hopping around the forest floor in search of insects, worms and other delicious morsels. It is combined with the antthrushes within the family “Formicariidae”. Although not a spectacularly ornate animal, its song can be beautiful and alluring. They are shy and allusive, generally heard and not seen.

In Ecuador there are twenty-three species of Antpitta in five genera. Some birds, such as the Giant Antpitta, are difficult to find and are listed as threatened by the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature). Even the more abundant species are seldom seen although frequently heard.

Antpittas are curious little birds with rotund, egg-shaped bodies that sit upon long spindly legs. They have short, stout bills and virtually no tails. This intriguing creature is reminiscent of Humpty-Dumpty with legs. As is common with birds of the forest floor, colors are muted with shades of browns and grays. Some species, however, sport patterns that can be quite attractive.

The Antpitta can vary in length according to species, ranging from the diminutive Ochre-breasted Antpitta at 10 cm (4 in.) to the Giant Antpitta at 24 cm (9 ½ in.). (Note that birds are generally measured from the tip of the bill to the tip of the tail. Exceptions to this rule are birds that exhibit uncommonly long tail feathers.)

Giant Antpitta (Grallaria gigantea)
Photo taken at Paz de las Aves

Antpittas are very shy and stay hidden in the forest undergrowth, avoiding most human contact. They can be located at most altitudes, ranging from the coastal planes to the Páramo. More often heard than seen, their haunting melodies enchant the curious traveler.  Any glimpse of these elusive creatures is a boon to the avid birdwatcher and a cherished memory. There are, however, locations in Ecuador where some species can be viewed on a regular basis. Angel Paz, at Paz de las Aves (Birds Peace) near Mindo, has befriended a variety of Antipittas and visitors can observe birds such as the Giant, Mustached, and Yellow-breasted Antpittas in their natural environment.

Antpittas feed on insects and worms, scratching around the leaves and undergrowth of the forest floor. They generally forage alone, although they will remain in contact with their mates through vocalization. There vociferous call will also settle territorial disputes that may arise. Typically they can be heard in the early morning and late evening, although the Tawny Antpitta may sing throughout the day.

The Antpitta is a amusing little bird that can delight the enthusiastic traveler with its melodious song. Those who are fortunate enough to get a glimpse of this curious creature will have a memory that will become the highlight of their trip. When walking in the rainforest, be attentive to its song and stop for a moment of silence. By some blessed touch of fate this elusive little creature may appear and bring sunshine to an otherwise ordinary day. 

Boobies – Clowns of the Pacific Coast

Blue-footed Booby (Sula nebouxii)

Boobies are a delightful seabird of the Pacific Coast with a name, appearance and personality that draws smiles from curious observers. A common belief is that the name derives from the Spanish slang expression bubie, signifying “dunce”. As these tropical birds are quite uninhibited, they would often land on the decks of seagoing vessels where they would be easily captured by hungry sailors and became the main course during the afternoon repast. Their jocular appearance and waggish walk add to this conception of an obtuse creature.

Range

Although the booby is commonly attributed to the Galapagos Islands, its range is much wider. Found along the Pacific coast from northern Mexico to northern Chile, this comical seabird finds refuge in the craggy boulders and scraggly brush of small isles and rocks of the seaboard. In Ecuador, boobies can be located on the islands associated with Machalilla National Park, Isla Santa Clara in the Gulf of Guayaquil, as well as the Galapagos Archipelago. Boobies remain in the tropics while their cousins, the gannets, occupy territory further north and south.

The Booby Family of Ecuador

There are five species of Boobies residing along the coast of Ecuador and its possessions. The Blue-footed Booby is the most prominent of this family and probably photographed more than any other seabird. The Nazca and Red-footed boobies are also quite common and can be found breeding on nearby coastal islands as well as the Galapagos. The Peruvian species is an irregular visitant to the southern Ecuadorian coast and the Brown Booby is uncertain as there are few records posted.

Appearance

Nazca Booby (Sula granti)

Boobies are large seabirds between 66-86.4 cm (26-34 in) in length. They have powerful pointed bills, long sharply tapered wings, narrow tails and broad webbed feet. Males and females are very similar with the voice being the best indicator of sex. Feeding on fish, they can be seen diving from great heights, as much as 100m (330 ft) and then pursuing their prey after entering the water. Air sacks within their faces cushion the impact with the water. They breed in colonies and can be seen in large flocks along the craggy cliffs of offshore islands. Nests are built on the ground, and occasionally in trees, where one or more chalky-blue eggs are laid.

Habits

Male boobies will perform a courtship dance to impress the female, spreading their wings and stomping their feet as if to a listening to a melodious serenade. Once they are mated the male will remain monogamous, although they have been know to suffer from a roving eye. Both the male and female will share the incubation of the eggs, keeping them warm with their feet. Once the eggs are hatched, the adults will catch fish, swallow them, and then regurgitate the masticated nutrient to the young. The males perform the feeding duties during the first few days of the incubation period.

Summary

Boobies are a peculiar bird that will entertain and delight the curious visitor. Relatively friendly, they can easily be approached for photos and closer contact. However, respect the rules of the reservations and the personal space of the birds. These amusing creatures can be observed on the Galapagos Islands, Isla de la Plate in the Machalilla National Park, Isla Santa Clara in the Gulf a Guayaquil, and along the rock islands along the Ecuadorian coast from Esmeraldas south. A trip to the seaside is not complete without spending some time with these clowns of the Pacific coast.