The RBT Oct 2005 Comprehensive Madagascar Tour was, once again, a great success.
• A total of 189 bird species including 99 of the 107 true endemics and all 27 regional endemics i.e. 126 of 137 endemics and near-endemics.
• 20 full species of lemur, in addition to 7 other species of mammals, including Fanaloka, Western Tuft-tailed Rat, the gorgeous Ring-tailed Mongoose , Madagascar Flying Fox and Humpbacked Whales.
• 26 “herps”, including giant chameleons, bizarre leaf-tailed geckos, cryptic stump-tailed chameleons, frogs, brilliant day geckos and snakes.
• A bewildering variety of invertebrate life, Giraffe-necked Weevils, gigantic butterflies and Hissing Cockroaches;
• Colourful reef fishes and assorted corals.

Tour Summary

Lake Alarobia provided a very “birdy” start to the RBT October comprehensive Madagascar tour. The lake, a private sanctuary within the city limits, provides habitat and breeding grounds to a wide variety of water birds. We enjoyed great views of Madagascar Pond-Heron, Dimorphic Egrets, Black Heron and numerous other herons and egrets on the lake’s island. A great find was an African Openbill – a rare bird in Madagascar. Numerous Madagascar endemics provided additional excitement to our first birding site with Madagascar Kestrel, Madagascar Coucal, Madagascar White-eye, Madagascar Bee-eater and Madagascar Red Fody. After a productive afternoons birding we set off for our hotel via the zoo for a look at the bizarre Aye-Aye (almost impossible to see in the wild).

Our first day in Madagascar started before sunrise as we had an early flight to the North Western town of Mahajunga. Mahajunga was sunny, warm and tropical. Our first birds were had at the airport – Chabert’s Vanga, our first member of this endemic family, and Madagascar Lark were both seen well. After driving through the colourful coastal town we continued our route to Ampijoroa Forest station via Lake Amboromalandy. Ampijoroa provided phenomenal birding; White-breasted Mesite, Coquerel’s Coua, Red-capped Coua and Rufous Vanga were all on our first afternoon’s list. The following days produced the mind blowing Schlegel’s Asity, Blue Vanga, and unbelievable views of a Banded Kestrel attacking a large chameleon. The campsite proved to be the best site for the comical Sickle-billed Vanga, Grey-headed Lovebird, both Vasa Parrots and sensational viewing of Coquerel’s Sifaka. Night walks produced an astounding array of nocturnal life. Golden-brown Mouse Lemur, Milne-Edwards Sportive Lemur, Western Avahi, Western Tuft-tailed Rat, Oustalet’s Chameleon and Rhinoceros Chameleon were just a few of the amazing nocturnal sightings we enjoyed. After successfully “cleaning-up” the North Western specials it was time to head back to Mahajunga. The night was spent in a beach front hotel in Mahajunga in preparation for the following day’s boat trip into the legendary Betsiboka delta.

After an early breakfast the speed boat collected us in front of our room and we sped off across the ocean towards the delta. On the way we enjoyed some good views of Greater Crested Terns. The mangroves of the delta provide a high-tide hide-a-way for numerous water and shorebirds. We quickly found our first pair of the endangered Bernier’s Teal and the rare Madagascar White Ibis. As the tide dropped we enjoyed many hours of fine birding that included Both Greater and Lesser Sand-Plovers, Terek Sandpiper, Bar-tailed Godwit and Humblot’s Heron. The late afternoon gave us a little time to relax before our early evening flight back to the capital.

It was with great excitement that we left Tana on our way to the famous Perinet NP, the first rainforest destination on the itinerary. Arriving at Perinet for lunch we had picked up Madagascar Pratincole on the way. Perinet and Mantadia provided some of the most exciting and challenging birding of the trip.

We birded relentlessly in search of Madagascar’s most sought after family – the Ground-Rollers. Muddied, exhausted and thrilled, we celebrated three ground rollers in a single day. Pitta-like, Short-legged and Scaly Ground-Rollers in the Bag! The remaining time at Perinet / Mantadia produced all that we had hoped for and more.

The unbelievable Indri hooted all around us, Red-breasted Coua scurried past our feet, we had Rainforest Scops Owl and Madagascar Long-eared Owl at day roosts and most importantly our fourth ground roller – Rufous-headed Ground-Roller was seen by all. In addition to the Indri, other mammalian highlights included the Diademed Sifaka, Black-and-white Ruffed Lemur, Grey Bamboo Lemur and the irresistible Greater Dwarf Lemur.

Indri © David Shackleford

Four wheel drive vehicles provided our transport to the remote and rugged Anjozorobe Forest station. Meller’s duck was found on a nearby lake and wetlands. The vegetated wetlands – some of Madagascar’s least disturbed - provided unbeatable viewing of Madagascar Rail, Madagascar Snipe, Grey Emutail, Alpine Swift and Madagascar Swamp Warbler. The night walk highlights were definitely the Stump-tailed Chameleon Brookesia thieli and a roosting Pitta-Like Ground-Roller. The morning’s forest walk produced great views of Madagascar Wood Rail, Forest Rock Thrush, Blue Coua, Tylas and Ashy Cuckoo Shrike.

Tana again provided the night’s accommodation before the morning flight to Fort Dauphin and drive to Berenty. Berenty is unbeatable for lemur enthusiasts with Ring-tailed Lemurs and Verreaux’s Sifakas common and approachable around the camp. The Sifakas “dance” through the camp each day brings great joy to all who witness this amazing spectacle. Berenty also produced some fine birding. Highlights were definitely sensational viewing of Torotoroka Scops Owl and White-browed Owl. These owls proved to be most confiding and offered great photo opportunities. Madagascar Cuckoo Hawk, France’s Sparrowhawk and abundant Black (Yellow-billed) Kite provided great raptor viewing and Madagascar Sandgrouse showed well both at the Mandrare river at dawn and in the stubbly fields during the day. Berenty gave us our first taste of the Spiny desert habitat with its bizarre Didiera trees, succulents and abundant reptile life. Such exciting herpes as Three-eyed Lizards and Big-headed Geckos found their way onto our ever-growing lists.

The Southern coastal regions of Tulear and Ifaty provided the base for our next four nights birding. First stop was the Spiny forests of the Ifaty area. A cracker morning’s birding produced a list that read like a who’s who of Mad birding. Long-tailed Ground Roller, our final ground Roller was first in the bag – much joy and high-fiving at having seen all of the Ground Rollers! Then, in quick succession we saw Sub-desert Mesite, Thamnornis, Lafresnaye’s Vanga, and Archbold’s Newtonia. Wetland birding in the Ifaty area that afternoon produced some great list birds – Baillon’s Crake, a difficult bird to see was seen very well by all. Little Bittern flushed from the reeds, the trips only Red-knobbed Coot flew over and great views were had of a pair of Hottentot Teal. The following day we found the remaining two Southern specials – Verreaux’s Coua and Red-shouldered Vanga in the scrubby vegetation around Le Table. Tulear was our base for another speed boat trip, this time to the island of Nosy Ve. Nosy Ve is a delightful island that offered great snorkelling, whale watching and is home to a breeding colony of Red-tailed Tropicbirds. We also managed to tick Littoral Rock Thrush en route.

Our route inland and back towards Ramanofana National Park had some great birding on the way. At the Zombitse Forest we successfully tracked down the extremely localised Appert’s Greenbul and in the scenic wonderland that is Isalo NP we found Benson’s Rock Thrush.

Ramanofana was our final destination and it was with high hopes and a long list of must see’s that we arrived. Some big days of dedicated birding really paid off and our elated group was treated to a birding bonanza – star of the glittering show was a pair of Yellow-bellied Sunbird Asities that performed within a metre of our noses – absolutely crippling! Other avian delights included the fantastically marked Madagascar Yellowbrow, Common Sunbird Asity, sneaky Brown Emutails and White-throated Oxylabes. Mammals were in no short supply and we enjoyed fantastic viewing of Madagascar Striped Civet, Ring-tailed Mongoose, Red-bellied Lemur and incredibly, the very rare Golden Bamboo Lemur.

From Ramanofana we travelled back to Tana to catch our flight home. All together an incredible and very successful tour of Madagascar.

Annotated Checklists of Birds, Mammals and “Herps”

 

Nomenclature and taxonomy follows Morris, P. & Hawkins, F. (1998) A Photographic Guide to the Birds of Madagascar, with the notable exception of a few of the recent taxonomic changes;  Garbutt, N. (1999) Mammals of Madagascar, and Glaw, F. & Vences, M. (1994) A Field Guide to the Amphibians and Reptiles of Madagascar. Insect names were derived from various sources.

 

BIRDS

 

Key to abbreviations:

ENDEMISM

E : an endemic species             NE : a near-endemic species (i.e. occurring in the Malagasy region only)

BE : a breeding endemic species             I: an introduced species

e : an endemic subspecies    ne : a near-endemic subspecies be : a breeding endemic subspecies

CONSERVATION STATUS

C : critical    En : endangered   V : vulnerable   NT : near-threatened  

 

(189 species)

 

Little Grebe (Dabchick)                                             Tachybaptus ruficollis capensis

A pair was seen on Lake Amboromalandy, a single bird on a lake at Anjozorobe and finally ten were seen on lakes in the Ifaty area.

 

Madagascar Little Grebe (E) (V)                               Tachybaptus pelzelnii
Five seen in a small pan at Ampijoroa, also seen on lake Amboromalandy and at Mantadia.

NOTE: Globally threatened and declining due to habitat loss, introduction of exotic fish, and competition (and possibly hybridisation) with Little Grebe.

 

Red-tailed Tropicbird                                                             Phaethon rubricauda rubricauda
We enjoyed intimate encounters with these most elegant birds, including sightings of at least 40 birds, some adults with young fledglings and many sub-adults, on Nosy Ve.

 

Reed (Long-tailed) Cormorant (e)                             Phalacrocorax africanus pictilis
Uncommon in Madagascar, with just a single bird seen flying over the Mandrare River, at Berenty.

 

African Darter (e)                                                       Anhinga rufa vulsini
Uncommon in Madagascar, with peak numbers of ten seen on Lake Ravelobe, Ampijoroa.

 

Little Bittern (e)                                                         Ixobrychus minutes podiceps
Uncommon in Madagascar, seen very well during the boat cruise on Lake Ravelobe. Five flushed from the wetlands near Ifaty.

 

Black-crowned Night-Heron                                      Nycticorax nycticorax
Common in wetlands around Tana with up to 100 recorded during the afternoon visit to Lake Alarobia. Also noted at Lake Ravelobe, Ampijoroa, Berenty and Ifaty.

 

(Common) Squacco Heron                                        Ardeola ralloides
Widespread and common in a variety of wetland habitats across the island, from rice paddies to tidal mudflats. Highest number was the estimated 300 roosting and breeding at Lake Alarobia.

 

Madagascar Pond-Heron (BE) (V)                             Ardeola idae
Spectacular in breeding plumage at lake Alarobia, three recorded. Four seen at Lake Ravelobe, Ampijoroa.

NOTE: A regional endemic breeder that is considered vulnerable and declining due to competition with Common Squacco Heron.

 

Cattle Egret                                                                Bubulcus ibis ibis
Common throughout and recorded daily in open and semi-open habitats. Large numbers seen at Lake Alarobia and Berenty.

 

Green-backed (Striated) Heron (ne)                          Butorides striatus rutenbergi
Small numbers at most freshwater and marine wetlands, including the wetlands near Ampijoroa, brackish marshes between Tulear and Ifaty, the tidal mudflats in Tulear Harbour and Mandrare river, Berenty.

NOTE: Represented in Madagascar by the race B. s. rutenbergi, which tends to be darker than its African counterpart, with a reddish neck reminiscent of the American B. s. virens (Green Heron).

 

Black Egret (Heron)                                                  Egretta ardesiaca
First seen at Lake Alarobia where we found 30 birds on the island, seen “mantling” in rice paddies en-route to Ampijoroa. Also recorded at lake Ravelobe.

 

Dimorphic (Mascarene Reef) Egret (NE)                  Egretta dimorpha
Widespread and common throughout Madagascar. First seen at Lake Alarobia, also Lake Amboromalandy, Betsiboka Delta, Tulear area and around Berenty.

NOTE: The latest Clements checklist considers this form a subspecies of Little Egret (Egretta garzetta dimorpha).

 

Great (White) Egret                                                   Ardea alba melanorhynchos
Small numbers at wetlands throughout, with a highest total of 50 in wetlands around Lake Amboromalandy, 20 in wetlands en route from Tana to Perinet and 40 at marshes between Tulear and Ifaty.

 

Purple Heron (e)                                                        Ardea purpurea madagascariensis
Two pairs seen at lake Ravelobe, Ampijoroa. A single bird was encountered in wetlands near Anjozorobe.

 

Grey Heron (ne)                                                         Ardea cinerea firasa
Mainly in western wetlands, where seen nesting on cliffs near the Onilahy River mouth. Small numbers were also encountered at the wetlands around Lake Amboromalandy.

 

Humblot’s (Madagascar) Heron (E) (V)                    Ardea humbloti
Four birds were seen nesting on the cliffs near the Onilahy River mouth with further sightings of one which gave awesome views in the Betsiboka Delta and one at Lake Ravelobe.

NOTE: A globally threatened species, essentially restricted to Madagascar but with vagrant records elsewhere.

 

Hamerkop (e)                                                                         Scopus umbretta bannermanni
Small numbers in roadside rice paddies on the drives from Tana to Perinet, Ranomafana to Tana and Fort Dauphin to Berenty.

African Openbill                                             Anastomus lamelligerus madagascariensis

We were fortunate to find one at Lac Alarobia.

 

Bernier’s (Madagascar White) Ibis (NEe)                Threskiornis bernieri bernieri
One of the prizes of our speedboat journey up the Betsiboka Delta, a total of twelve individuals.

NOTE: A globally threatened species restricted to largely inaccessible wetlands in western Madagascar and Aldabra Island.

 

Glossy Ibis                                                                  Plegadis falcinellus falcinellus
Common at Lake Ravelobe.

 

Madagascar Crested (White-winged) Ibis (E) (NT)  Lophotibis cristata cristata
One was seen briefly along a stream at Perinet.

 

Madagascar Crested (White-winged) Ibis (E) (NT)  Lophotibis cristata urschi
After a long search we were thrilled to find one building a nest at Ampijoroa.

 

White-faced Whistling Duck                                      Dendrocygna viduata
Large numbers were recorded at freshwater wetlands around Tana (1000 at Lake Alarobia) and in the west, at wetlands around Ampijoroa.

 

Comb (Knob-billed) Duck                                          Sarkidiornis melanotos melanotos
Recorded at Lake Alarobia and 90 seen at Berenty.

 

Meller’s Duck (E) (En)                                                         Anas melleri

We were very lucky to find six at Anjozorobe.

 

Madagascar (Bernier’s) Teal (E) (En)                                   Anas bernieri
The greatest prize of our trip up the Betsiboka Delta. 21 were recorded on our morning expedition. At first seen roosting in mangroves until moving onto mudflats to feed.

NOTE: This globally threatened endemic, currently known only from a few inaccessible sites on the west coast of Madagascar, has rarely been recorded until is discovery at this site by Rockjumper Birding Tours in 1999. “Only significant recent counts are 60 on Masama Lake in 1970 and 61 on Bemamba Lake in 1973” Volume 1; HBW.

 

Red-billed Teal (Duck)                                                           Anas erythrorhyncha
Common and widespread in freshwater habitats across Madagascar. Peak numbers of 500 recorded on lake Amboromalandy. Also recorded on the coast at Ifaty.

 

Hottentot Teal                                                                        Anas hottentota
30 were seen in the wetlands around Lake Amboromalandy, a single bird recorded on a small lake between Ifaty and Tulear.

 

Madagascar Cuckoo-Hawk                                        Aviceda madagascariensis

We had great views of a breeding pair at Berenty.

 

Black (Yellow-billed) Kite                                                      Milvus [migrans] parasitus
Common and conspicuous in open habitats, particularly in the west. Small numbers at the roadside on most road journeys, very common on the drive from Isalo NP to Ranomafana with at least 50 seen.

 

Madagascar Fish Eagle (E) (C)                                  Haliaeetus vociferoides
Great views of 3 birds at Lake Ravelobe, Ampijoroa.

NOTE: This is one of the world’s rarest raptors, with a total global population of no more than 60 pairs.

 

Madagascar Harrier-Hawk (E)                                 Polyboroides radiatus
Small numbers encountered at several sights including Ampijoroa and Perinet Special Reserve.

 

Henst's Goshawk (E) (NT)                                         Accipiter henstii

We had great views of one perched at Ranomafana NP and an interesting “eye” view of an individual on a nest at Ampijoroa.

NOTE: A scarce endemic that occurs at low densities; usually detected by its far-carrying and distinctive calls.

 

Madagascar Sparrowhawk (E) (NT)                           Accipiter madagascariensis

We were extremely fortunate to encounter this rare species, a single bird was seen well at Mantadia.

 

Frances' Sparrowhawk (NEe)                                                 Accipiter francesii francesii
Sensational views of this attractive raptor were had at Berenty where two birds were seen.

 

Madagascar Buzzard (E)                                            Buteo brachypterus
Common and widespread, with small numbers recorded from almost all wooded sites.

 

Madagascar (Newton’s) Kestrel (NEe)                                 Falco newtoni
Very common in open and semi-open habitats throughout. Recorded almost daily, regularly at the roadside and at most birding sites.

 

Banded Kestrel                                                          Falco zoniventris

We were very fortunate to find one of these rare birds at Ampijoroa where we were treated to superb scope views of an individual battling with a large chameleon!

 

Madagascar Partridge (E)                                          Margaroperdix madagascarensis
Our first sighting was of a nervous individual at Anjozorobe. We then obtained good views of a female at Zombitse and a beautiful pair at Isalo.

 

Helmeted Guineafowl (I)                                            Numida meleagris mitrata
We encountered two small flocks at Berenty.

NOTE: This African species was probably introduced to Madagascar by early colonists.

 

White-breasted Mesite (E) (V)                                              Mesitornis variegata
Ampijoroa produced a phenomenal sighting of three birds that crossed the trail in front of us.

 

Brown Mesite (E) (V)                                                 Mesitornis unicolor
We all had very close encounters with two of these beautiful skulking birds at Ranomafana NP.

 

Subdesert Mesite (E) (V)                                           Monias benschi
An early morning start enabled us to locate this elusive species in the Spiny Desert at Ifaty. We all enjoyed exceptional scope views and even had photographic opportunities.

 

Madagascar Buttonquail (E)                                      Turnix nigricollis

Seen exceptionally well at Ampijoroa foraging in the dry leaf litter.

 

Madagascar Flufftail (E)                                             Sarothrura insularis
Commonly heard in suitable habitat but notoriously difficult to see. Some of us had unbeatable views at Perinet with the entire group getting great views at Anjozorobe.

 

Madagascar Wood Rail (E)                                        Canirallus kioloides kioloides
Seen briefly at Mantadia and then unbelievably well at Anjozorobe where four birds were seen. Ranomafana then produced a mother with two chicks – wow.

 

Madagascar Rail (E)                                                   Rallus madagascariensis
Seen fantastically at Anjozorobe where a total of five birds were seen at point blank!

 

White-throated (Cuvier’s) Rail ([N]Ee)                     Dryolimnas cuvieri (cuvieri)
We were treated to superb views of a pair at Mantadia. This species was also heard calling on several occasions.

NOTE: Some authorities consider the nominate Madagascar race of this bird as distinctive from the near-flightless Aldabra Island race, making this another endemic rallid to Madagascar.

 

Baillon's Crake                                                           Porzana pusilla intermedia
We were very fortunate to have cracking views of one at a wetland near Ifaty. We had a further sighting of one in a reedy wetland south of Tulear.

 

Purple Swamphen                                                       Porphyrio porphyrio madagascariensis

This species was heard calling in the wetlands between Tulear and Ifaty.

 

Allen’s Gallinule                                                         Porphyrio alleni

We were very fortunate to find three on Lake Ravelobe during a boat cruise. This is a seldom seen species in Madagascar.

 

Common Moorhen (ne)                                              Gallinula chloropus pyrrhoroa
Small numbers were encountered at several sites. Highest numbers of five at Lake Alarobia. A pair were also seen in the lake in front of our hotel at Perinet.

 

Red-knobbed Coot                                                     Fulica cristata

A single bird was seen flying over wetlands near Ifaty. This is a rare species in Madagascar.

 

Madagascar Jacana (E)                                              Actophilornis albinucha

Only in wetlands of the north-west, where seven were seen at Lake Ravelobe.

 

Black-winged Stilt                                                      Himantopus himantopus himantopus
Recorded at several sites, both coastal and inland, with peak numbers of 25 found in wetlands between Tulear and Ifaty.

 

Madagascar Pratincole (BE)                                      Glareola ocularis
A total of two birds were seen from the bridge on the Mangoro River en route to Perinet.

 

Common Ringed Plover                                             Charadrius hiaticula tundrae
A single bird was recorded from the Betsiboka delta, and then peak numbers of 20 on the mudflats at Tulear

 

Kittlitz's Plover                                                          Charadrius pecuarius pecuarius
Recorded in reasonable numbers in wetland habitats around Tulear and Ifaty.

 

Madagascar Plover (E) (NT)                                      Charadrius thoracicus
Three of these scarce, localised endemics were observed at close quarters at a small salt pan in Ifaty.

 

Three-banded Plover (e)                                           Charadrius tricollaris bifrontatus
Recorded in small numbers at several sites at wetlands north and south of Tulear.

 

White-fronted Plover                                                  Charadrius marginatus tenellus
Our first sighting was of one on the beach at Mahajunga, and peak numbers of ten on the island of Nosy Ve.

 

Lesser Sand (Mongolian) Plover                               Charadrius mongolus pamirensis
Five were seen in the Betsiboka delta. This species is a rarity in Madagascar.

 

Greater Sand Plover                                                   Charadrius leschenaultii crassirostris
Common on tidal flats in the Betsiboka Delta where we found 45 and also smaller numbers on the Tulear mudflats.

 

Grey (Black-bellied) Plover                                       Pluvialis squatarola
This species was fairly common on tidal flats around Tulear and Ifaty where up to 40 were seen.

 

Madagascar Snipe (E) (NT)                                        Gallinago macrodactyla
We had views of a single bird at Anjozorobe and then a pair in the wetlands of Ranomafana.

 

Bar-tailed Godwit                                                       Limosa lapponica lapponica

One bird was seen on the tidal mudflats approximately halfway between Tulear and Ifaty and six seen on the tidal mudflats at Tulear.

 

Whimbrel                                                                    Numenius phaeopus phaeopus
Up to 30 were seen in the Betsiboka Delta. This species was also very common on tidal flats around Tulear and Ifaty where we recorded up to 350.

 

Common Greenshank                                                            Tringa nebularia
Another common wader, our first sighting was of three birds seen at the Betsiboka Delta. This species was regularly seen in the wetlands in the Tulear and Ifaty area with up to 30 seen and at the Mandrare River at Berenty with up to 64 being counted.

 

Terek Sandpiper                                                         Tringa cinerea
We had superb views of 30 in the Betsiboka Delta and a further twelve were seen on the tidal flats near Ifaty.

 

Common Sandpiper                                                    Tringa hypoleucos
Small numbers in freshwater and brackish wetland habitats throughout. Highest total of fifteen seen in the wetlands near Ifaty.

 

Wood Sandpiper                                                         Tringa glareola

A single bird was found at the freshwater lakes between Ifaty and Tulear.

 

Ruddy Turnstone                                                        Arenaria interpres interpres
Fairly common on tidal flats around Tulear and Ifaty where up to 50 were seen.

 

Sanderling                                                                   Calidris alba
Our first sighting was of 50 on tidal flats around Ifaty and then a pair on Nosy Ve..

 

Curlew Sandpiper                                                       Calidris ferruginea
The most common Calidrid, with 1000 seen in the Betsiboka Delta and up to 60 seen on the tidal flats in the Ifaty and Tulear areas.

 

Caspian Tern                                                              Sterna caspia caspia
Recorded in small numbers on the coast at Tulear and Ifaty – a single bird from the beach at Ifaty  and peak numbers of three near Tulear.

 

Greater Crested (Swift) Tern                                     Sterna bergii enigma
Six seen in the open waters close to the Betsiboka delta and then up to 30 recorded on the Nosy Ve island trip.

 

Lesser Crested Tern                                                             Sterna bengalensis bengalensis
We had good views of four during the Betsiboka boat trip and 100 at the tern roost at Nosy Ve.

 

Common Tern                                                            Sterna hirundo hirundo

A roost of 30 birds was seen on a sandbar near Nosy Ve.

 

Saunders' Tern                                                           Sterna saundersi
A small flock of five was seen at the Tulear mudflats.

 

Madagascar Sandgrouse (E)                                      Pterocles personatus
Our first sighting was of two drinking in the Mandrare River and then nine birds in the stubble fields at Berenty.

 

Rock Pigeon (Feral Pigeon) (I)                                              Columba livia
Widespread in urban areas.

 

Madagascar Turtle Dove (NEe)                                 Columba picturata picturata
First seen at Ampijoroa, with numerous subsequent sightings at almost all sites. Particularly tame and conspicuous at Berenty and Ampijoroa.

 

Namaqua (Long-tailed) Dove (e)                                Oena capensis aliena
Widespread and common in drier areas, with highest totals of 70 in the Ifaty area.

 

Madagascar Green Pigeon (NEe)                              Treron australis australis
Up to four of the nominate subspecies were seen at Ampijoroa.

 

Madagascar Green Pigeon (NEe)                              Treron australis xenia
One of the southern subspecies seen near at Ifaty.

 

Madagascar Blue Pigeon (E)                                                 Alectroenas madagascariensis
This beautiful bird is fairly common in eastern rainforest, we had superb views of two at Perinet and peak numbers of five at Anjozorobe.   

 

(Greater) Vasa Parrot (NEe)                                      Coracopsis vasa vasa
This eastern subspecies is much less common than Lesser Vasa Parrot in the rainforest biome. Five were seen at Mantadia and Perinet.                                      

 

(Greater) Vasa Parrot (NEe)                                      Coracopsis vasa drouhardi
One of the western subspecies of this large parrot was seen at Ampijoroa.

 

Lesser Vasa (Black) Parrot (NEe)                            Coracopsis nigra nigra
A widespread and fairly common bird and exceedingly vocal. Seen in small groups at Perinet, Mantadia and Ranomafana

 

Lesser Vasa (Black) Parrot (NEe)                            Coracopsis nigra libs
The drier country (Western and Southern) subspecies of Lesser Vasa Parrot was commonly observed at Ampijoroa where we found peak numbers of up to 30, ten at Berenty and twelve at Ifaty.

 

Grey-headed Lovebird (E)                                         Agapornis canus canus
The nominate subspecies of this small parrot was found in the campsite at Ampijoroa where approximately 20 were seen.

 

Grey-headed Lovebird (E)                                         Agapornis canus albactanea
The southern subspecies was seen daily in the Ifaty, Tulear and Berenty areas. Peak numbers of up to 40 were seen at Ifaty.

 

Madagascar Lesser Cuckoo (BE)                             Cuculus rochii
Very common and one of the dominant sounds in wooded and semi-wooded habitats throughout. We had great views of one at Mantadia with further sightings at Perinet, Anjozorobe and Ifaty.

 

Giant Coua (E)                                                                        Coua gigas
Common at Berenty where three individuals were watched at close quarters. Also seen at Zombitse NP.                          

 

Coquerel's Coua (E)                                                   Coua coquereli
Commonly seen at Ampijoroa, peak numbers of three individuals. One was also seen in Zombitse NP.

 

Running Coua (E)                                                       Coua cursor
One seen at close quarters at Ifaty.

 

Red-breasted Coua (E)                                                          Coua serriana

This difficult to see Coua was seen exceptionally well in singles and pairs at Mantadia NP. 

 

Red-fronted Coua (E)                                                             Coua reynaudii
We had good views of one calling at Mantadia and one at Ranomafana.

 

Red-capped Coua (E)                                                             Coua ruficeps
Seen daily at Ampijoroa where we enjoyed great views of three.

 

Olive-capped (Green-capped) Coua (E)                    Coua olivaceiceps

Four seen at Ifaty.

NOTE: This southern, khaki-capped form of Red-capped Coua is considered to be a full species in Sinclair I. and Langrande O. Birds of the Indian Ocean Islands however many other authorities consider this form to be a subspecies of Red-capped Coua.

 

Crested Coua (E)                                                       Coua cristata cristata

This nominate subspecies was first recorded at Ampijoroa with up to five individuals being seen during our stay there.

 

Crested Coua (E)                                                       Coua cristata pyropyga

This southern subspecies, with a rufous vent, was commonly observed at Berenty during our stay there (six birds).

 

Verreaux's Coua (E) (NT)                                          Coua verreauxi
We enjoyed superb views of this rare and localised species in coral rag scrub on La Table. The most localised member of this endemic sub-family.

 

Blue Coua (E)                                                             Coua caerulea

Our first sighting was of a pair at Anjozorobe and then peak numbers of three seen at Ranomafana NP. Strangely turaco-like and one of the world’s great “Blue Birds”!

 

Madagascar Coucal (NEe)                                         Centropus toulou toulou
Common, widespread and recorded in small numbers virtually daily during our tour. The first sighting was superb views of one at Lac Alarobia, and recorded from deciduous forest, reedbeds, secondary growth, primary rainforest and spiny desert and all habitats in between !

 

Rainforest Scops Owl (NEe)                                      Otus rutilus rutilus
This recently split form of the Madagascar Scops  was found at a day roost in Perinet where we all enjoyed superb views.

 

Torotoroka Scops Owl (E)                                         Otus madagascariensis

This new species of Scops Owl (pronounced “Toorootoorook”, an onomatopoeic name) was finally seen at Berenty where we found a pair on a night walk and a single bird at its day roost.

NOTE: These Scops Owls have recently been split, based on morphological and vocal differences and habitat preferences.

 

White-browed (Madagascar Hawk) Owl (E)              Ninox superciliaris
Our first sighting was fantastic views of a pair of these spectacular owls during our first walk at Berenty. These obliging birds allowed for fantastic photo opportunities.

 

Madagascar Long-eared Owl (E)                               Asio madagascariensis
We had great views of this difficult to see owl at Perinet Special Reserve.

 

Collared Nightjar (E)                                                  Caprimulgus enarratus
We had fantastic views of two birds roosting during the day in Perinet Special Reserve. A rare endemic restricted to the eastern forests.

 

Madagascar Nightjar (NEe)               Caprimulgus madagascariensis madagascariensis
The common nightjar on Madagascar. Our first sighting was at Ampijoroa. Highest numbers seen were eight hawking over the road at Ampijoroa. We also enjoyed numerous further encounters and many a night we fell asleep listening to the “bouncing-marble” call of this nightjar.

 

Madagascar Spinetail (NEe)                                       Zoonavena grandidieri grandidieri
Peak numbers of six birds were seen in Mantadia NP.

 

African Palm Swift (e)                                                 Cypsiurus parvus gracilis
Common in suitable palm habitat and peak numbers of 100 were seen at Ampijoroa

 

Alpine Swift (e)                                                           Tachymarptis melba willsi.

Our first sighting was at Anjozorobe where two birds flew over the wetlands, a further ten were seen over the Mandrare River near Berenty.

 

Madagascar (Black) Swift (NE)                                  Apus balstoni
Fairly common throughout. Peak numbers of 50 were seen in the vicinity of Tulear and Ifaty.                 

NOTE: These Malagasy birds are usually considered a species distinct from the African Black Swift (A. barbatus), however no dedicated research has been done. There seems to be two distinct sizes of all black swifts in Madagascar, and these may represent two or more species.

 

Madagascar Malachite (Diademed) Kingfisher (NEe)  Alcedo vintsioides vintsioides
Fairly common at freshwater and marine wetlands throughout. First recorded at Lake Alarobia                    with further sightings of small numbers at roadside rice paddies and all wetland sites.

 

Madagascar Pygmy Kingfisher (E)    Ispidina madagascariensis [ madagascariensis]

This attractive endemic was first recorded at Mantadia NP where we found a pair which gave crippling views. We later enjoyed a further sighting at Ranomafana NP.

 

Madagascar (Olive) Bee-eater                                  Merops superciliosus superciliosus
Common, widespread in semi-open areas and recorded from almost all sites. First seen at Lake Alarobia .

 

Broad-billed Roller (be)                                             Eurystomus glaucurus glaucurus
Widespread and common breeding migrant from the African mainland. First recorded at Ampijoroa.

 

Short-legged Ground-Roller (E) (V)                          Brachypteracias leptosomus
The most difficult of the Ground-Rollers to find and we    were thrilled to get sensational views of one after an adventurous search at Mantadia. Our success with all the Ground Rollers would not have been possible without the highly skilled guides, Floran and Luke at Perinet.

 

Scaly Ground-Roller (E) (V)                                       Brachypteracias squamigera

The last Ground  Roller seen on our awesome Ground Roller Day ( 3 species seen in a single day). An absolute treat after many long hours without sign or sound at Mantadia. A scarce and secretive bird, formerly considered to be restricted to the forests of the Masoala peninsula.

 

Pitta-like Ground-Roller (E)                                     Atelornis pittoides
Our first sighting was stunning views of one in Mantadia NP. A total of 11 were seen and many others heard during the trip. We were fortunate to get magnificent views on several occasions. A highlight being a roosting individual at Anjozorobe. Despite being the commonest of the ground-rollers, this magnificent creature is justifiably one of the most sought-after birds on Madagascar.

 

Rufous-headed Ground-Roller (E) (NT)                    Atelornis crossleyi
After extensive searching we were finally rewarded with good views of one in Mantadia and a single bird at Ranomafana. This beautiful bird was a highlight for many.

 

Long-tailed Ground-Roller (E) (V)                             Uratelornis chimaera
We enjoyed superb views of one in the Spiny Desert at Ifaty.

 

Madagascar Cuckoo-Roller (E)                                 Leptosomus discolor (discolor)
This spectacular endemic was seen at all forest sites, the first being seen at Ampijoroa.. Other sightings were had at Mantadia, Zombitse Forest and Anjozorobe. This is a surprisingly large bird.

NOTE:  some authorities such as Sinclair I. and Langrande O., consider the Comores form of this bird to be a separate species from that occurring in Madagascar.

 

Madagascar Hoopoe (E)                                            Upupa marginalis
Commonly recorded at all western sites, including daily sightings at Ampijoroa, the Spiny Desert at Ifaty and Berenty where we recorded peak numbers of four.

NOTE: This form is usually considered distinct from the African Hoopoe, based on vocal and morphological differences.

 

Velvet Asity (E)                                                          Philepitta castanea
Our first view was of a female at Perinet. Our second sighting was of another female, this time with scope views at Anjozorobe.                                                                                   

 

Schlegel's Asity (E) (NT)                                           Philepitta schlegeli
Two magnificent pairs were seen exceptionally well at Ampijoroa.

 

Common Sunbird Asity (E)                                        Neodrepanis coruscans
Some of us had brief views of one female at Ranomafana. However at Vohiparara we were treated to fabulous views of  a pair.

 

Yellow-bellied (Small-billed) Sunbird-Asity (E) (En) Neodrepanis hypoxanthus
A definite highlight of the tour. A pair in front of our noses blew us all away. An incredibly beautiful bird! An extremely difficult bird to locate due to its rarity, small size, fast flight and insignificant call.

 

Madagascar (Hova) Lark (E)                                                 Mirafra hova
Our first sighting was had at the airport in Mahajunga. Very common in open habitats throughout, many in display flight.

 

Mascarene Martin (NEbe)                                         Phedina borbonica borbonica
Madagascar’s commonest hirundine and a regional breeding endemic. Recorded at almost all sites, on most days.

 

Brown-throated (Plain Sand) Martin (e)                    Riparia paludicola cowani

This high plateau wetland hirundine was observed en route to Perinet where peak numbers of six were seen. Small numbers were also seen en route from Anjozorobe to Tana.

 

Madagascar Wagtail (E)                                             Motacilla flaviventris
Common in the east and highland plateau, where seen daily in small numbers.                                                                                                          

 

Ashy (Madagascar) Cuckoo-shrike (NEe)                Coracina cinerea cinerea
This eastern forest form of the cuckoo-shrike was seen at Mantadia and Perinet Special Reserve.

 

Ashy (Madagascar) Cuckoo-shrike (NEe)                Coracina cinerea pallida
The more commonly encountered western form was seen daily at Ampijoroa.

 

Madagascar Bulbul (NEe)                  Hypsipetes  madagascariensis [madagascariensis]
Common and ubiquitous, with daily sightings in a variety of wooded and semi-wooded habitats. First seen at Ampijoroa.

 

Long-billed Greenbul (Ee)                 Phyllastrephus madagascariensis madagascariensis
Widespread in eastern forests of Madagascar. This form was first encountered in small numbers at Mantadia NP but more commonly encountered in Perinet Special Reserve and also observed in Ranomafana NP.

 

Long-billed Greenbul (Ee)                             Phyllastrephus madagascariensis inceleber
This dry forest form was seen exceptionally well at Ampijoroa where we found two birds roosting and  in the Zombitse Forest (two birds.)

 

Spectacled Greenbul (Ee)                                          Phyllastrephus zosterops zosterops
Restricted to eastern forests, where it is the commonest of the “small greenbuls”. A total of five seen and many heard in Mantadia NP and Perinet and also plentiful in Ranomafana NP, where four seen and many heard.                                                       

 

Appert's Greenbul (E) (V)                                          Phyllastrephus apperti
We enjoyed superb encounters with two individuals of this attractive and confiding species in Zombitse NP. A globally threatened bird that is restricted to 2 forests in south-west Madagascar.

 

Grey-crowned Greenbul (E) (NT)                              Phyllastrephus cinereiceps
Uncommon in eastern rainforest, mainly at altitudes above the range of Spectacled Greenbul. The first sighting was of two birds at Anjozorobe. four birds were then seen exceptionally well in the mid-storey at Vohiparara.

 

Red-tailed Vanga (E)                                                  Calicalicus madagascariensis
A fairly common and regularly encountered denizen of wooded and semi-wooded habitats, particularly once its “wolf-whistle” call is recognised. This species was seen or heard daily in the Perinet area and at Anjozorobe.

 

Red-shouldered Vanga (E) (V)                                   Calicalicus rufocarpalis
We enjoyed superb close studies of a male of this recently described and highly localised endemic, in “coral rag” scrub on La Table. This species can be particularly hard to find and we were very fortunate to get such good views.

 

Rufous Vanga (Ee)                                                      Schetba rufa occidentalis
The western deciduous forest form of this handsome bird is the more frequently encountered form with up to six recorded daily at Ampijoroa.

 

Hook-billed Vanga (Ee)                                              Vanga curvirostris curvirostris
This often heard and infrequently observed species was seen at Ampijoroa.

 

Lafresnaye's Vanga (E)                                              Xenopirostris xenopirostris
This species was seen very well in the Spiny Desert at Ifaty (two birds).                                                        Another individual was seen at le Table.

 

Pollen's Vanga (E) (NT)                                             Xenopirostris polleni
A scarce and local denizen of eastern forests, it was heard daily at Vohiparara and Ranomafana NP. We enjoyed stunning views of one feeding chicks at Ranomafana.

 

Van Dam's Vanga (E) (En)                                          Xenopirostris damii
After an extensive search we were finally rewarded with superb views of a pair at Ampijoroa. The most localised of the Vangas after the recently discovered Red-shouldered.

 

Sickle-billed Vanga (E)                                               Falculea palliata
One of Madagascar’s GREAT birds and wonderfully common in the dry west. Particularly common and conspicuous at Ampijoroa, where twelve birds were seen during our stay.

 

White-headed Vanga (Ee)                                          Artamella viridis viridis
The more uncommon eastern forest subspecies of this attractive Vanga was only observed at Mantadia.

 

White-headed Vanga (Ee)                                          Artamella viridis annae

The more widespread western race was seen daily in small numbers at Ampijoroa, often in the campsite, on the mangrove covered islands in the Betsiboka Delta where peak numbers of five were seen.                                                             

 

Chabert’s Vanga (Ee)                                                             Leptopterus chabert chabert
The most common vanga, occurring in habitats ranging from pristine rainforest to degraded scrub. First seen at Mahajunga, then observed daily at Ampijoroa.

 

Chabert’s Vanga (Ee)                                                             Leptopterus chabert schistocercus
This southern desert race is morphologically and vocally distinct from the nominate and may represent a different species. It was observed during our excursions into the Spiny Desert at Ifaty where we saw a total of 8 birds.                           

 

(Madagascar) Blue Vanga ([N]E)       Cyanolanius madagascarinus (madagascarinus)
Our first encounter with this species was of a pair at Ampijoroa. Several others were heard and seen in Perinet and Mantadia NP and small numbers were seen in Ranomafana NP. Another one of the world’s great “Blue Birds”!

NOTE: Sinclair I. and Langrande O., consider the Comoros race of this species to be distinct, resulting in the Madagascar Blue Vanga being another Madagascar endemic. This stance is not widely accepted.

 

Nuthatch Vanga (Coral-billed Nuthatch) (E)              Hypositta corallirostris
One was seen very well at Mantadia. A peculiar and localised eastern rainforest endemic.

 

Tylas (Vanga) (Ee)                                                      Tylas eduardi eduardi
A total of three seen and many more heard at Mantadia NP, and one more seen at Vohiparara.

NOTE: