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Global Vision International,

XXXXX Report Series No. 00X


ISSN XXXX-XXXX (Print)

GVI Ecuador

Rainforest Conservation and Community


Development

Phase Report 084


October – December 2008
GVI Ecuador/Rainforest Conservation and Community Development
Expedition Report 084
`
Submitted in whole to
Global Vision International
Yachana Foundation
Museo Ecuatoriano de Ciencias Naturales (MECN)

Produced by

Matt Iles - Science Coordinator


Jonathon Escolar – Expedition Manager

And

Odette Blackmore Expedition Member Sophie Paterson Expedition Member


Peter Coals Expedition Member Nick Pope Expedition Member
John Cray Expedition Member Louise Rigby Expedition Member
Tom Dickinson Expedition Member Matt Smith Expedition Member
Anna Ferguson Expedition Member Greg Spittle Expedition Member
Adam Hejnowicz Expedition Member John Taylor Expedition Member
Kelly Jones Expedition Member Hannah Urpeth Expedition Member
Andrew Mercer Expedition Member Sophia Vasiliou Expedition Member
Mark Miller Expedition Member Heleen Zwallenberg Expedition Member
Anna Nelson-Smith Expedition Member

Edited by

Karina Berg – Country Director

GVI Ecuador/Rainforest Conservation and Community Development


Address: Casilla Postal 17-07-8832
Quito, Ecuador
Email: ecuador@gvi.co.uk
Web page: http://www.gvi.co.uk and http://www.gviusa.com
Executive Summary
This report documents the work of Global Vision International’s (GVI) Rainforest
Conservation and Community Development Expedition in Ecuador’s Amazon region and
run in partnership with the Yachana Foundation, based at the Yachana Reserve in the
province of Napo. During the fourth phase of 2008 from 3 October to 15 December, GVI
has:

• Added 14 species to the Yachana Reserve species list bringing the total number for
the Reserve to 617 species of birds, mammals, amphibians, reptiles and butterflies.
• Added eleven new bird species to the reserve species list: Lesser Goldfinch (Carduelis
psaltria), Crested Oropendola (Psarocolius decumanus), Swainson’s Thrush (Catharus
ustulatus), Olive-faced Flatbill (Rynchocyclus olivaceus), Glowing Puffleg (Ericonemis
vestitus), Black-eared Fairy (Heliothryx aurita), Olivaceous Flatbill (Rynchocyclus
olivaceus), Ocellated Woodcreeper (Xiphorhynchus ocellatus), Straight-billed
Woodcreeper (Xiphorynchus picus), Blackburnian Warbler (Dendroica fusca) and
Variable Hawk (Buteo polysoma).
• Conducted five mist netting sessions for birds, which provided six of the new species
additions.
• Made incidental sightings of eight mammal species including Amazon Bamboo Rat
(Dactylomys dactylinus), Neotropical Otter (Lontra longicaudis) and a rare sighting of a
Southern Two-toed Sloth (Choloepus diadactylus) and juvenile, which proved to be
new to the reserve species list.
• Trialled the use of Sherman live traps for small mammal surveying.
• Continued collecting swab samples from amphibians within the reserve in order to
assess the status of the epidemic fungal disease Batrachochytrium dendrobatitus.
• Made a rare sighting of a Caecilian (Caecilia aff. tentaculata).
• Encountered twelve species of reptile including two which were new to the reserve
species list; the Aquatic Coral Snake (Micurus surinamensis surinamensis) and the
Spotted Water Snake (Helicops leopardinus).
• Continued an ongoing butterfly study assessing butterfly diversity in the reserve.
• Trialled a new project assessing river quality through the use of benthic invertebrates.
• Continued with English lessons for local school children in Puerto Rico.

© Global Vision International – 2007 ii


• Accommodated two graduate students from the Yachana Technical High School for
the duration of the phase as part of a National Scholarship Program.
• Welcomed two of the current students from the Yachana Technical High School to join
the expedition for a week, in order to exchange language skills, knowledge and
experience.
• Visited a local student’s community and farm, in addition to field trips to Yasuní
National Park and Sumak Allpa, an island reserve run by a local Quichua
conservationist.

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Table of Contents
1 Introduction ................................................................................................................5
2 Avian Research ..........................................................................................................7
2.1 Introduction .......................................................................................................7
2.2 Methods ............................................................................................................8
2.3 Results ..............................................................................................................8
2.4 Discussion ....................................................................................................... 9
2.5 Conclusion ......................................................................................................10
3 Mammal Surveys .....................................................................................................10
3.1 Introduction .....................................................................................................10
3.2 Methods ..........................................................................................................11
3.3 Results ............................................................................................................11
3.4 Discussion ......................................................................................................12
3.5 Conclusion ......................................................................................................12
4 Herpetological Research ..........................................................................................13
4.1 Introduction .....................................................................................................13
4.2 Methods ..........................................................................................................13
4.3 Results............................................................................................................15
4.4 Discussion ......................................................................................................16
4.5 Conclusion ......................................................................................................16
5 Butterfly Surveys ......................................................................................................17
5.1 Introduction .....................................................................................................17
5.2 Methods ..........................................................................................................17
5.3 Results ............................................................................................................18
5.4 Discussion ......................................................................................................18
5.5 Conclusion ......................................................................................................18
6 Benthic Invertebrates and Stream Health .................................................................18
6.1 Introduction .....................................................................................................18
6.2 Methods ..........................................................................................................19
6.3 Results............................................................................................................19
6.4 Discussion ......................................................................................................19
6.5 Conclusion ......................................................................................................20
7 BTEC Advanced Certificate in Supervision of Biological Surveys .............................20
8 Community Development Projects ...........................................................................20
8.1 Colegio Técnico Yachana (Yachana Technical High School) ..........................20
8.2 National Scholarship Program.........................................................................21
8.3 TEFL at Puerto Rico .......................................................................................21
9 Conclusions and Future Aims ...................................................................................22
10 References ...............................................................................................................23
11 Appendix ..................................................................................................................25

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1 Introduction

The Rainforest Conservation and Community Development expedition operated by Global


Vision International (GVI) is located at the Yachana Reserve in the Napo province in the
Amazonian region of Ecuador. Yachana Reserve is a legally-designated Bosque Protector
(Protected Forest), consisting of approximately 2000 hectares of predominantly primary
lowland rainforest, as well as abandoned plantations, grassland, riparian forest,
regenerating forest and a road. The Yachana Reserve is owned and managed by the
Yachana Foundation.

The Yachana Foundation is dedicated to finding sustainable solutions to the problems


facing the Ecuadorian Amazon region. The foundation works with rainforest communities
to improve education, develop community-based medical care, establish sustainable
agricultural practices, provide environmentally sustainable economic alternatives, and
conserve the rainforest. The Yachana Reserve is the result of the foundation’s efforts to
purchase blocks of land for the purpose of conservation. The Yachana Foundation is
developing a long-term plan of sustainable management for the reserve according to
International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) protected forest guidelines.
One of GVI’s main roles at the reserve is to provide support where deemed necessary for
the development of the management plan. This includes reserve boundary determination,
baseline biodiversity assessments, visitor information support, and research centre
development.

GVI also works closely with the Colegio Técnico Yachana (Yachana Technical High
School), a unique educational facility for students from the surrounding region. The high
school provides students with meaningful education and pratical experience in sustainable
agriculture, animal husbandry, conservation, eco-tourism, and small business operations.
As part of their experiential learning program, students use the Yachana Reserve and
GVI’s presence as a valuable educational tool. As part of their conservation curriculum,
the students visit the reserve to receive hands-on training in some of GVI’s research
methodology, as well as familiarization with ecological systems. On a rotational basis,
students spend time at the reserve where they participate in the current research activities,
and receive conversational English classes from GVI expedition members (EMs).

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Recently, GVI has also donated staff and EMs to assist the high school’s regional literacy
outreach program.

GVI additionally conducts Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) classes at the
nearby village of Puerto Rico, twice a week. Classes are prepared the day before and last
for one hour. Groups of two or three EMs conduct the classes, covering topics such as
introductions, animals, colours and expressions. This allows GVI to integrate with the local
community, whilst giving volunteers the opportunity to experience first hand involvement in
community development and TEFL. This is also currently laying the foundation to
introduce environmental education programmes to the Puerto Rico community in the
future.

GVI also works with local research institutions. The Ecuadorian Museum for Natural
Sciences (MECN) provides technical assistance with field research and project
development. The museum is a government research institution which houses information
and conducts research on the presence and distribution of floral and faunal species
throughout Ecuador. GVI has a permit through the MECN for the collection of specimens
of reptiles, amphibians, small mammals and butterflies, and a permit for catching bats and
birds. The data and specimens collected by GVI are being lodged with the MECN in order
to make this information nationally and internationally available, and to provide verification
of our field data. MECN technicians are continuously invited to the Yachana Reserve to
conduct in-field training and education for GVI and Yachana students, as well as explore
research opportunities otherwise unavailable. With Pontifica Universidad Catolica Ecuador
(PUCE), GVI has established a collaboration involving the amphibian projects within the
reserve. PUCE has requested data from the reserve to aid in their ongoing conservation
efforts towards the amphibians of the neotropics.

At the beginning of the phase, the staff at GVI changed completely. The effect of this
change has meant a transitional period of overcoming logistical difficulties, the cessation of
some projects, and the beginning of new project ideas. Due to past efforts in cataloguing
diversity, a major goal for GVI in this new era is to shift focus from identifying species in
the reserve to collecting data for management concerns and publication. In this way, in
collaboration with all local and international partners, GVI has shifted its research focus to

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answering ecological questions related to conservation. With this focus in mind, several
key goals have been identified:

• Cataloguing species diversity in the Yachana Reserve in relation to regional


diversity.
• Conducting long-term biological and conservation based research projects.
• Monitoring of biological integrity within the Yachana Reserve and the immediate
surrounding area.
• Publication of research findings in primary scientific literature.
• Solicitation of visiting researchers and academic collaborators.
• Identification of regional or bio-geographic endemic species or sub-species.
• Identification of species that are included within IUCN or Convention on
International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES)
appendices.
• Identification of keystone species important for ecosystem function.
• Identification of new species, sub-species, and range extensions.
• Identification of charismatic species that can be valuable for the promotion of
Yachana Reserve to visitors.

In order to achieve these goals, expedition members (EMs) are trained by GVI personnel
to conduct research on behalf of the local partners in support of their ongoing work. This
report summarises the scientific research and community-based programmes conducted
during the ten-week expedition from 3 October to 15 December 2008, at Yachana
Reserve.

2 Avian Research

2.1 Introduction
GVI continues to monitor the avian communities within the reserve and to identify
additional bird species using the following three survey techniques: local bird surveys
(audio and visual surveys), mist netting, and incidental sightings.

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2.2 Methods

2.2.1 Local Bird Surveys


This is a qualitative survey method conducted in the more open areas within the Yachana
Reserve to facilitate visual surveying of birds. Trails that pass through secondary forest,
plantation forest, open grassland, riparian forest, and along the road are surveyed during
the morning (0600 - 0900 h) and afternoon (1600 – 1830 h) for bird activity. The date,
start and end time, species heard or seen, number, and sex if known are recorded.

2.2.2 Mist Netting


In order to collect individuals for identification and banding, mist netting is conducted. Nets
are opened during peak bird activity in the morning and afternoon. Mist netting allows GVI
to band individuals and identify less conspicuous species otherwise impossible to observe
with other methodology. Conducted consistently over time, data can be collected that
identifies migratory species, and shifts in diversity and abundance. Two areas of the
reserve are currently sampled - an open area of secondary forest adjacent to grassland on
the Ridge trail, and a stretch of primary forest located on the Bloop trail.

2.2.3 Incidental Data Recordings


Species that were encountered outside of point count and local bird surveys are also
recorded if they were believed to be rare or not previously identified to be within the
reserve (e.g. nocturnal species during satellite camps). Incidental sightings can take place
during any of the other survey or project work within the reserve. With each incidence the
time, location, date, species, and any other key characteristics or notes are taken and later
entered into a database back in base camp.

2.3 Results
Eleven new additions to the species list bring the total number of avian species in the
reserve to 258. See Appendix A for the complete species list at Yachana Reserve
compiled by GVI thus far.

2.3.1 Local Bird Surveys


14 local bird surveys were conducted at four different sights (Ridge lookouts 1 & 2, Rio
Napo trail and Bloop lookout), which contributed to two new additions to the species list:
Lesser Goldfinch (Carduelis psaltria) and the Crested Oropendola (Psarocolius

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decumanus). The Lesser Goldfinch is a boreal migrant to the region hence having
remained undetected until now. The Crested Oropendola however, was observed on
numerous occasions so it is therefore surprising it was not on the species list before. The
Swallow-winged Puffbird (Chelidoptera tenebrosa) was recorded on every survey
conducted on the Ridge trail lookouts, and Yellow-rumped Caciques (Cacicus cela) were
also frequently recorded on both Ridge trail lookouts.

2.3.2 Mist Netting


Five mist netting sessions were conducted at two different sights (Ridge trail and Upper
Bloop trail) during the expedition phase. Between them they added six new species to the
species list: Swainson’s Thrush (Catharus ustulatus), Olive-faced Flatbill (Rynchocyclus
olivaceus), Glowing Puffleg (Ericonemis vestitus), Black-eared Fairy (Heliothryx aurita),
Olivaceous Flatbill (Rynchocyclus olivaceus), and the Ocellated Woodcreeper
(Xiphorhynchus ocellatus). In total, 24 different species were captured over the five
sessions. The most interesting capture was that of the Glowing Puffleg (Ericonemis
vestitus), which according to Ridgely and Greenfield (2001) has only been recorded at
altitudes of over 2250m.

2.3.3 Incidental Sightings


Incidental sightings added two new species to the Yachana species list this phase. They
were the Straight-billed Woodcreeper (Xiphorynchus picus), Blackburnian Warbler
(Dendroica fusca), both seen at base camp, and the Variable Hawk (Buteo polyosoma),
observed on the Ridge trail.

2.4 Discussion
The addition of eleven new species to the reserve checklist is encouraging. The results of
each survey method are discussed further below.

2.4.1 Local Bird Surveys


Local bird surveys resulted in the addition of two new birds to the species list, and they
were a useful way of exposing EMs to the birds and allowing them to appreciate the varied
bird life in Yachana. The data collected is useful for documenting and identifying which
species are common and which are rare within the reserve, providing valuable information
to the Yachana Foundation and the Yachana Lodge, which is useful for the direction of the

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Management Plan, and the lodge’s tour guides and its visitors. Local bird surveys
conducted throughout the year also reveal patterns of migratory species.

2.4.2 Mist Netting


The mist netting surveys were particularly valuable for catching and identifying species
otherwise difficult to detect or ID simply through observational methods. For this reason
and also because EMs enjoy the experience, more mist netting sessions in more locations
are recommended for future expeditions.

2.4.3 Incidental Sightings


Incidental sightings added three new species to the list this phase, this emphasizes the
need to stay alert at all times when out in the forest and the need to use alternative
methods (e.g. playback and mist netting) for surveying secretive or rare bird species (Allen
et al. 2004; Lacher et al. 2004).

2.5 Conclusion
Avian survey work continues to focus on adding species to the reserve checklist. It is
recommended however, that future expeditions focus on using the data more
constructively and using statistical indices to measure species richness and diversity. More
mist netting should also be conducted as these surveys are particularly productive at
revealing less detectable species. Audio point counts are also planned for future
expeditions to survey birds more thoroughly within the forest interior.

3 Mammal Surveys

3.1 Introduction
GVI continues to document mammal species in the reserve predominately through
incidental mammal and track sightings. The recording of mammals is largely confined to
incidental recordings due to the fact that the occurrence of conspicuous diurnal mammals
is low. Excessive mammal concentrated surveying is not sufficiently productive. However,
long walks in the forest have been continued to increase chances of seeing diurnal and
nocturnal mammals. The use of small mammal traps was also trialled during this phase.

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3.2 Methods

3.2.1 Small mammal traps


The use of Sherman live traps was trialled during this phase, although it is thought to have
been used inconsistently during previous phases. Three trapping sessions were performed
at each of two different sites. Each trial consisted of 15 traps laid out for 48 hours at a
time, with traps being checked at dawn and dusk. Traps were baited with a mix of peanut
butter, oats and cat food, as recommended by Sutherland (1996). At the first site, on the
Bloop trail in the primary forest, traps were laid out along a 150m transect and spaced at
every 10m. At the second site, on the Ridge trail in the secondary forest, traps were
arranged in a 20 x 20m quadrant amongst a stand of invasive grassland.

3.2.2 Incidental sightings


All mammal species that were encountered outside of specific mammal surveys were
recorded. Incidental sightings can take place during any of the other survey or project work
within the reserve, or during long walks into the forest. At the time of each incidence the
time, location, date, species, and any other key characteristics or notes are taken and later
entered into a database back in base camp.

3.3 Results
During this phase, eight mammal species were sighted incidentally during other survey
work or walks into the forest. Of these, one was a new species to the Yachana species list.

3.3.1 Small mammal traps


No animals were captured during any of the six 48 hour trapping periods.

3.3.2 Incidental sightings


Incidental sightings included regular encounters with Amazon Red Squirrel (Sciurus sp.),
Black Agouti (Dasyprocta fuliginosa), Black-mantled Tamarins (Saguinus nigricollis), Night
Monkeys (Aotus sp.) and Water Opossum (Chironectes minimus). An Amazon Bamboo
Rat (Dactylomys dactylinus) was seen on several occasions close to the Ridge lookout on
the road, whilst a Neotropical Otter (Lontra longicaudis) was spotted during a long walk. A
rare sighting of a Southern Two-toed Sloth (Choloepus diadactylus) and juvenile was
made only 40m along the Ridge trail from base camp, proving to be a new addition to the
reserve species list.

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3.4 Discussion

3.4.1 Small mammal traps


The ineffectiveness of the Sherman live trap trials this phase is likely to be a result of
several factors. These may include a low number of traps themselves, or a lack of
exposure time, thus not allowing small mammals in the area to become accustomed to the
traps and their foreign smell.

3.4.2 Incidental sightings


Because of the elusiveness of many mammal species they are often difficult to survey.
Incidental sightings alone have provided us with sightings of eight of the 48 mammal
species (19 of which are bats from past bat netting sessions). One of the incidental
sightings was new to the Yachana species list.

3.5 Conclusion
In terms of the small mammal traps further experimental use is required before a
standardised methodology can be established. More traps with greater spacing between
traps may be more likely to provide catches. A greater amount of exposure time, allowing
small mammals to become accustomed to the traps, could also provide some suitable
results. Traps may also be prebated, locking the traps open without the intention of
trapping in order encourage mammals to visit the traps regularly. Persistent use of the
Sherman live traps could allow a whole new group of mammals to be surveyed on a
regular basis, undoubtedly providing new additions to the reserve species list.

Until more rigorous and tested mammal survey methods are established, incidental
sightings will provide the bulk of mammal encounters in the reserve. For this reason, night
walks and long forays into the forest should be conducted regularly. These should ideally
be performed in small groups in order to minimise disturbance and increase the likelihood
of sightings.

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4 Herpetological Research

4.1 Introduction
There are two main focuses with the amphibian and reptile research. The first is to
continue long term monitoring of the abundance and diversity of amphibians and lizard
within the reserve. The second is to determine the prevalence and effects of
Batrachochytrium dendrobatitus (commonly referred to as chytrid fungus) in the amphibian
population at the Yachana Reserve. The chytrid fungus is the cause of the disease
chytridiomycosis; the biggest threat facing amphibian species worldwide and particularly in
the tropics (Daszak et al., 1999). B. dendrobatidis has been recognized as an emerging
pathogen, whose spread is facilitated by the national and international movement of
amphibians. First discovered in South Africa in 1938, no other records exist until 1961, and
from there on cases of the disease have increased exponentially (Weldon et al., 2004).
Chytrid fungus has only become a focus of global amphibian research and conservation in
the past ten years, and the exact pathology of the disease is still unknown.

A swab sample from Pristimantis malkini from the expedition phase 083 was found positive
for chytridiomycosis following Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) analysis at PUCE. This
is the first positive sample for the chytrid fungus in Yachana Reserve, following
somewhere in the region of 150 samples. This presents new challenges and objectives for
the herpetology research program.

4.2 Methods

4.2.1 Stream and forest transects


Amphibians and reptiles are surveyed by conducting stream walks and transects. Stream
walks are conducted mainly along the primary stream (Stream 1) which runs throughout
the heart of the reserve. Smaller streams are sampled as well on a less frequent basis.
These walks are conducted both during the day and at night in an attempt to target
amphibians and reptiles with different activity patterns. Groups of EMs led by GVI staff
search along the banks and surrounding vegetation including overhanging branches and
vines, which provide excellent cover for many species of tree frog. The time, position along
the stream, and microhabitat are recorded for each specimen located. The individual’s
snout to vent length (svl) is also noted, in addition to any physical characteristics that may
aid the identification of unknown species.

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Transects are similar to stream surveys except they are conducted through a segment of
forest. Again, each transect is surveyed in the morning and early evening during peak
amphibian and reptile activity, by thoroughly searching in the leaf litter and the surrounding
vegetation. Information recorded is the same as for the stream surveys. During both
surveys, unfamiliar species of amphibians are taken back to camp for further examination
and where applicable, samples are taken to send to PUCE in order to determine the status
of the B. dendrobatitus pathogen.

4.2.2 Sampling of chytrid fungus


In accordance with PUCE, captured amphibians are swabbed for PCR analysis in order to
detect the presence of B. dendrobatitus. This involves swabbing the individual 30 times
across the belly and a further 15 times on each leg, focusing on the groin region where the
fungus is thought to be concentrated. Amphibians are then euthanized using the
anaesthetic Lidocain. A tissue sample is then taken from the frogs left thigh and an
additional sample is taken from the liver. PUCE then uses these tissue samples to add to
gene database of the amphibians of Latin America. This is part of a wider project linked to
work at PUCE involving the captive breeding of rare and endemic species with the aim of
reintroductions.

Following a positive chytrid sample from a Prystimantis malkini individual in the phase 083,
the focus of the chytrid research changed slightly. Previously the aim was to swab and
take tissue samples from five individuals of each species in the reserve. PUCE
recommended that in order to rapidly assess the status of the chytrid fungus in the P.
malkini population, GVI should swab as many individuals as possible in the field. The
collection of tissue samples was put on hold during this phase.

4.2.3 Incidental sightings


Species that were encountered outside of stream and forest transect surveys were also
recorded. A record is kept for all incidental reptile sightings, including their location. Where
appropriate amphibian individuals were swabbed in the field and svl was recorded.

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4.3 Results

4.3.1 Stream and forest transects


Seven stream transects were conducted during the phase, five of which took place in
Steam 1, the largest stream running through the reserve. 77 individual amphibians were
encountered. The overwhelmingly common species were the Engostymops petersi and
Pristimantis malkini. Also of note was a sighting of an uncommon Centrolenid Glass Frog,
(Cochranella midas). With regards to reptiles, stream walks provided sightings of the
impressive Amazon Tree Boa (Corallus enydris enydris), a Fer-de-Lance (Bothrops atrox)
and the Orange-ringed Coral Snake (Mircurus hemprichii ortoni).

Two transect surveys were also performed in the forest, each consisting of a search in the
morning and the same night. Eight frogs were found during the two surveys in addition to
two sightings in one night of the Dwarf Climbing Salamander (Bolitoglossa peruviana).
Two of the amphibians escaped before identification could take place, whilst three frogs on
one of the night surveys proved to Epipedobates bilinguis. Also sighted on a forest
transect was a Slender Anole (Anolis fuscoauratus), amongst other unidentified
Gymnophthalmidae lizards.

4.3.2 Sampling of chytrid fungus


Following the positive chytrid sample from a Pristimantis malkini individual in the phase
083, chytrid sampling was primarily performed on the majority of amphibian individuals
encountered in the field. Stream 1, where the positive individual was found, was the focus
of much of the sampling whilst sampling efforts predominantly targeted P. malkini. In total,
36 individual amphibians were swabbed, of which 27 were P. malkini. These swab
samples are currently being analysed by PUCE.

4.3.3 Incidental sightings


A rare sighting of a Caecilian (Caecilia aff. tentaculata) was made early on in the phase.
Incidental reptile sightings included Common Blunt-headed Tree Snake (Imantodes
cenchoa), Black-headed Snake (Tantilla melanocephala melanocephala), Bridled forest
Gecko (Gonatodes humeralis), Collared Forest Gecko (Gonatodes concinnatus), Common
Bird Snake (Pseustes poecilonotus), Fer-de-Lance (Borthops atrox) and Olive Whipsnake
(Chironius fuscus). Also seen on one of the phases’ last stream walks were the Aquatic

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Coral Snake (Micurus surinamensis surinamensis) and the Spotted Water Snake (Helicops
leopardinus), both new to the species list.

4.4 Discussion

4.4.1 Stream and forest transects


Many frogs were encountered on the stream and forest transects. Many of these were the
rain frog species Engostymops petersi and Pristimantis malkini. P. malkini in particular was
being specifically targeted as part of the chytrid sampling regime. Many individual
amphibians were encountered on these surveys, although reptiles were markedly fewer.
Eleven amphibian species and four reptile species were encountered on these surveys,
representing a small proportion of those on the reserve species list.

4.4.2 Sampling of chytrid fungus


27 Pristimantis malkini individuals were swabbed, conforming to PUCE’s request to target
this species in and around the area where the positive chytrid swab sample was found in
the last phase. This will hopefully shed some light, following swab sample analysis, on the
prevalence of the chytrid fungus in the P. malkini population in this area of the reserve,
which is obviously a high priority, following the first positive chytrid result in the Yachana
reserve.

4.4.3 Incidental sightings


Incidental sightings provided the bulk of reptile encounters. Two new species were added
to the list on this expedition, both of which were on a night walk outside of the stream and
forest transects. Fewer frogs were noted incidentally, but this is likely to be a side effect of
staff and EMs targeting mammals and reptiles, which are seen less frequently,

4.5 Conclusion
The small number of species encountered during survey work is likely to be a result of
targeting frogs, specifically Engostymops petersi and Pristimantis malkini as part of the
chytrid survey work. It is unsure where PUCE will require GVI to direct the chytrid research
in the forthcoming phases, but this is likely to be dependent upon the swab sample results
from this phase. Stream walks and long forays into the forest provide an excellent
opportunity to encounter amphibians and reptiles, so should be conducted regularly,

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preferably in small groups in order to minimise disturbance and increase the likelihood of
sightings.

Much of the survey work during this phase was concentrated in or around Stream 1. If
more survey work was to be performed further afield in the reserve, it is likely that a larger
number of reptile species would be encountered more regularly. This should therefore be
an aim for the next expedition phase. There is also huge scope to attempt new survey
methods for reptiles and amphibians. One such example is the use of pitfall traps in order
to survey ground dwelling species. This would undoubtedly provide new additions to the
species list.

5 Butterfly Surveys

5.1 Introduction
During this phase GVI continued to survey the reserve for the purpose of identifying new
species using both sweep-nets, which target nectar or fruit eating butterflies and baited
traps, which target carrion eating butterflies.

5.2 Methods
Butterflies are primarily surveyed by means of two complementary methods: sweep-nets
and baited traps. Sites were selected according to geographical location within the reserve
and habitat type. The various major habitats e.g. primary forest, old plantation, secondary
forest etc. were surveyed independently. Traps are set for one day at a time and
monitored for several hours between 0800 and 1500 h. Baited traps are set using rotting
fish and other rotting fruit with sugar. While baited traps are set, sweep-netting is also
conducted to assess the assemblage of nectar-eating butterflies in each area.

All butterflies caught are either identified in the field using photographic references or
otherwise specimens are taken. Pictures of those that are not identifiable are compiled on
a phase-by-phase basis and are allocated a unique identification code. Photos of
unidentified specimens are sent the MECN in Quito.

17
5.3 Results
Overall, 216 specimens were caught during six trapping sessions. Surveys ranged from
three and five hours in duration. Between 20 and 49 individuals were caught. 53 different
species were captured, of which none were new to the species list.

5.4 Discussion
Butterfly surveys continue to provide captures of many species. In this phase, all butterflies
captured were thought to have been seen in the reserve before. This is somewhat in
contrast to previous phases, where new additions to the reserve species list were regularly
noted. This may be because many of the species in the reserve have been seen in
previous phases, or this may be due to the inexperience in butterfly identification skills of
the new staff running the project. Incorrect identification of some butterfly species may
have occurred due to the close morphological similarities between species of the same
sub-families, particularly the Ithomiinae and the Heliconiinae, and for this reason new
species may have been overlooked.

5.5 Conclusion
Data collected up until the beginning of this phase is currently being analysed to provide
the basis for a research paper examining the differences in butterfly community structure
between primary and secondary rainforest. No specific aims have been set out for the next
phase and due to staff turnover and new interests, it may be that butterfly surveys are
used only as a tool to teach students at the Yachana Technical High School and to provide
additional survey experience to EMs.

6 Benthic Invertebrates and Stream Health

6.1 Introduction
Monitoring the biodiversity of benthic macro invertebrates has been indicated as a superior
measure of water quality and overall stream health (Karr, 1999). In much of temperate
North America and Europe, national environmental groups have included macro
invertebrate diversity in measures of acceptable water quality. In most cases, workers
compare the diversity of a stream to a certain set index that represents pristine quality. In
the tropics however, little work has been done to create these indices. The long-term aim
of this project will be the ongoing monitoring of the streams present in the reserve;

18
collecting comparable data from the various stream sections regularly in order to assess
quality. Several obstacles currently exist; namely a lack of expertise within this field of
study and a lack of identification guides specific to the area. Therefore, the current phase
has tested a pilot project to be replicated and strengthened for subsequent expedition
phases.

6.2 Methods
The methodology for sampling freshwater streams can be varied and is often dictated by
the structure of the stream. The streams in the reserve are mainly shallow, wide and with
a variety of riffles and pools. Therefore we employ the use of kick net, surber net and
hand collection in order to collect a representative sample for the streams. Specimens are
pooled with the aim of either collecting a target quantity of specimens per stream/site, or
collecting specimens from a standardised sample number, e.g. 15 kick samples.
Specimens can then be identified to the family level and total counts made for each group.
A standardised index can then be used to compare the abundance of family groups that
demonstrate sensitivity to stream health, or those that indicate the presence or absence of
certain physical characteristics in a stream.

6.3 Results
Multiple trials were made throughout this phase, experimenting with different methods of
collection (i.e. net type) and different methodology aims (i.e. number of individuals vs.
standardised number of samples). 21 target families were found regularly in the
preliminary samples, whilst a couple of unidentified specimens were omitted from the
results, as advised by Carrera & Fierro (2001). Indexes were calculated but no direct
comparisons were made between streams/sites, due to the preliminary nature of the trials
made in this phase.

6.4 Discussion
Of the possible combinations of sample method available, use of a surber net provided the
greatest number of individuals. Hand collection was also successful in collecting some of
the larger and more charismatic benthic invertebrates. Specimens proved to be easy to
identify to the family level using an ID sheet from Carrera & Fierro (2001) and hand lenses
(10x magnification).

19
6.5 Conclusion
The ease of specimen collection and identification provides promise for this new project.
Methods must be standardised early on in the next phase, whilst a regime for sampling
different sites along the streams present in the reserve must be established in order to
collect accurate, replicable data.

7 BTEC Advanced Certificate in Supervision of Biological Surveys


EMs who join for a five or ten week expedition, have the opportunity of completing a BTEC
course in the Supervision of Biological Surveys, equalling the standard of an A-level
equivalent qualification. The course consists of five units, ranging in content from Target
Species Identification, Survey Techniques, to learning about Expedition Logistics, and
Community Development. This course is a hands-on applied course that builds on the
training and knowledge that all EMs receive during the initial training week and throughout
their expedition time. Over the course of the ten weeks we certified eight EMs. During this
expedition phase we allowed EMs to choose an area of specialization and conduct their
assignments based on their own interests. Through this method, we allowed EMs with
special abilities to improve and enhance our data collection.

8 Community Development Projects

8.1 Colegio Técnico Yachana (Yachana Technical High School)


A large component of the expedition is exchange with students from the high school. This
expedition phase we began three new collaborative projects which resulted in a greater
period of interaction. The first project was to have GVI and EMs assist the students in
their environmental education class. On three occasions GVI participated in a project to
map the boundaries and major trails of the protected forest owned behind the high school.
GVI's presence allowed for efficient mapping, a smaller student to teacher ratio, cultural
exchange, and English and Spanish language practice. A second project was to teach
ecological survey methods to students so they can reproduce projects at the school. On
three separate occasions high school students came to the reserve, received training and
then practiced methods such as sampling for aquatic insects, reforestation of native trees,
and amphibian collection. The third project was to participate in the government
sponsored literacy outreach program. Students in their third year are obligated to

20
participate in an outreach literacy program. Here in the Upper Napo area, this program is
critically needed. GVI is participating in this program to add environmental education to
the programs contents.

8.2 National Scholarship Program


Students from the Yachana High School are offered a one to two week internship on the
expedition. Each week two or three students become integral members of the expedition
during which they are involved in all aspects of the expedition, including survey work,
camp duty and satellite camps. Conversation sessions are also arranged between the
students and EMs, or staff. During the last phase two students participated on the
expedition. The students are of great assistance during field work, sharing their knowledge
about local uses for plants as well as helping with the scheduled work. They also shared
their culture with both staff and EMs through outlets such as, teaching traditional basket-
weaving, traditional achiote-painting, providing indigenous language (Quichua and Chachi)
and cooking lessons e.g. empanadas, teaching the uses of medicinal plants and
demonstrating how to build several animal traps.

8.3 TEFL at Puerto Rico


Formal English classes were provided by EMs and staff for one hour on Tuesdays and
Thursdays, to school children from the neighbouring community of Puerto Rico. The
relationship with Puerto Rico is continuing to grow and strengthen and GVI is looking to
provide environmental education programmes to the community in the future as part of the
conservation work that is done here. For example, upon invitation by the school teacher,
GVI was asked to tutor some of the older students at Puerto Rico who can only attend
school twice a week due to work obligations. GVI hopes to continue these tutorial
sessions. Puerto Rico is the nearest discrete community to the reserve and as such, GVI’s
relationship with the community is an important component of the expedition providing
benefit to both its residents and GVI EMs.

21
9 Conclusions and Future Aims

 The biodiversity programme will be continued, opportunistically re-surveying sites, and


expanding the survey areas within the reserve.
 The MECN continues to provide taxonomic support and this will be continued with
specimens being lodged at the MECN for identification, thereby also increasing
Ecuador’s national specimen collection.
 Research into the status of the chytrid fungus in the reserve will continue in
accordance with PUCE.
 The focus of the avian research program will be expanded to include more mist netting
and audio point counts, in order to monitor bird species less detectable by visual
means.
 Mammal trapping will be further trialled in the next expedition in order to allow small
mammals to become accustomed to the traps and moreover to establish a
methodology for regularly surveying populations in the reserve.
 In order to monitor stream health through surveying benthic invertebrates, methods
must be standardised in the next phase, whilst a regime for sampling different sites
along the streams present in the reserve must be established.
 It is intended for a new research project to commence in the next phase focusing on
the reserve’s dung beetle community, as they provide an excellent indication of habitat
stability and biodiversity.
 The BTEC course will continue to be offered and run for all interested EMs.
 An ongoing aim of the expedition is to attract high quality researchers and departments
interested in conducting research in the reserve with the assistance of GVI staff and
expedition members to carry out the field work.
 GVI will continue to co-ordinate projects with the Yachana Foundation as determined
by the goals in the Reserve Management Plan, such as marking the reserve boundary
and mapping land use.
 GVI will continue with its TEFL classes in Puerto Rico.
 GVI will aim to further develop the possibilities of working more closely with the
Yachana Technical High School.

22
10 References
Allen, T., Ginkbeiner, S.L., and Johnson, D.H., 2004. Comparison of detection rates of
breeding marsh birds in passive and playback surveys at Lacreek National Wildlife refuge,
South Dakota. Waterbirds 27, 277-281.

Daszak, P., Berger, L., Cunningham, A.A., Hyatt, A.D., Green, D.E., Speare. R., 1999.
Emerging infectious diseases and amphibian population declines. Emerging Infectious
Diseases. 5, 735-48.

Karr, J.R., 1999. Defining and measuring river health. Freshwater Biology 41: 221-234.

Kroodsma, D.E., 1984. Songs of the Alder Flycatcher (Empidonax alnorum) and Willow
Flycatcher (Empidonax traillii) are innate. Auk 101, 13-24.

Lacher, T., 2004. Tropical Ecology, Assessment, and Monitoring (TEAM) Initiative: Avian
Monitoring Protocol version 3. Conservation International, Washington, DC.
www.teaminitiative.org.

Ridgely, R.S., Greenfield, P.J., 2001. The birds of Ecuador. Volume I. Status, Distribution,
and Taxonomy. Cornell University Press, New York.

Sutherland, W.J., 1996. Ecological census techniques: a handbook. University press,


Cambridge.

Weldon, C., du Preez, L.H., Hyatt, A.D., Muller, R., Speare, R., 2004. Origin of the
amphibian chytrid fungus. Emerging Infectious Diseases. 10 (Issue 12).

References used in the field to identify species:

Bartlett, R.D., Bartlett, P., 2003. Reptiles and amphibians of the Amazon. An ecotourist’s
guide. University Press of Florida, Gainsville.

Bollino, M., Onore G., 2001. Butterflies & moths of Ecuador. Volume 10a. Familia:
Papilionidae. Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Quito.

23
Carrera, C., Fierro, K., 2001. Manual de monitoreo los macroinvertebrados acuáticos.
EcoCiencia, Quito.

Carrillo, E., Aldás, S., Altamirano, M., Ayala, F., Cisneros, D. Endara, A., Márquez, C.,
Morales, M., Nogales, F, Salvador, P., Torres, M.L., Valencia, J., Villamarín, F., Yánez, M.,
Zárate, P., 2005. Lista roja de los reptiles del Ecuador. Novum Milenium, Quito.

de la Torre, S., 2000. Primates of Amazonian Ecuador. SIMBIOE, Quito.

DeVries, P.J., 1997. The butterflies of Costa Rica and their natural history. Volume II:
Riodinidae. Princeton University Press, Princeton.

Duellman, W.E., 1978. The biology of an equatorial herpetofauna in Amazonian Ecuador.


The University of Kansas, Lawrence.

Eisenberg, J.F., Redford, K.H., 1999. Mammals of the neotropics: The central neotropics.
Volume 3 Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Brazil. The University of Chicago Press, Chicago.

Emmons, L.H., Feer, F., 1997. Neotropical rainforest mammals. A field guide, second
edition. The University of Chicago Press, Chicago.

Moreno E., M., Silva del P., X., Estévez J., G., Marggraff, I., Marggraff, P., 1997.
Mariposas del Ecuador. Occidental Exploration and Production Company, Quito.

Neild, A.F.E., 1996. The butterflies of Venezuela. Meridain Publications. London.

Ridgely, R.S., Greenfield, P.J., 2001. The birds of Ecuador. Volume I. Status, distribution
and taxonomy. Christopher Helm, London.

Ridgely, R.S., Greenfield, P.J., 2001. The birds of Ecuador. Volume II. A field guide.
Christopher Helm, London.

Tirira S., D., 2001. Libro rojo de los mamíferos del Ecuador. SIMBIOE/EcoCiencia, Quito.

24
11 Appendix

Yachana Reserve, Napo

Columbia Laguna

Stream 1

Caimencocha
Laguna

Frontier

Green Inferno

Stream 1

Bloop
PC17

Bloop
Swamp

Inca
Cascada Stream 1

Road

Cascada Stream Stream 1

Ficus

Agua Santa

Ridge and Road

N - Ridge trail Access Routes

Ridge

Rio Napo
GVI Base Camp

25
Yachana Reserve species list (new additions from 084 in red).
Birds Birds Birds Birds
Scientific name English name Scientific name English name Scientific name English name Scientific name English name
Tinamiformes Opisthocomidae Hoatzin Cotingidae Cotinga Passeriformes
Tinamidae Tinamous Opisthocomus hoazin Hoatzin Ampelioides tschudii Scaled Fruiteater Furnariidae Ovenbirds
Crypturellus bartletti Bartlett's Tinamou Cotinga cayana Spangled Cotinga Automolus rubiginosus Ruddy Foliage-gleaner
Crypturellus cinereus Cinereous Tinamou Strigiformes Cotinga maynana Plum-throated Cotinga Philydor pyrrhodes Cinammon-rumped Foliage-gleaner
Crypturellus soui Little Tinamou Strigidae Typical Owls Gynnoderus foetidus Bare-necked Fruitcrow Sclerurus caudacutus Black-tailed Leaftosser
Crypturellus undulatus Undulated Tinamou Glaucidium brasilianum Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl Iodopleura isabellae White-browed Purpletuft
Crypturellus variegatus Variegated Tinamou Lophostrix cristata Crested owl Querula purpurata Purple throated Fruitcrow Dendrocolaptidae Woodcreepers
Tinamus major Great Tinamou Otus choliba Tropical Screech-Owl Dendrexetastes rufigula Cinnamon-throated Woodcreeper
Otus watsonii Tawny-bellied Screech-owl Lepidocolaptes albolineatus Lineated Woodcreeper
Ciconiformes Pulsatrix perspicillata Spectacled owl Pipridae Manakins Xiphorhynchus ocellatus Ocellated Woodcreeper
Ardeidae Herons, Bitterns and Egrets Chiroxiphia pareola Blue-backed Manakin Xiphorhynchus guttatus Buff-throated Woodcreeper
Ardea cocoi Cocoi Heron Caprimulgiformes Dixiphia pipra White-crowned Manakin Xiphorhynchus picus Straight-billed Woodcreeper
Bubulcus ibis Cattle Egret Nyctibiidae Potoos Lepidothrix coronata Blue-crowned Manakin
Egretta caerulea Little Blue Heron Nyctibius aethereus Long-tailed Potoo Machaeropterus regulus Striped Manakin Thamnophilidae Typical Antbirds
Tigrisoma lineatum Rufescent Tiger-Heron Nyctibius grandis Great Potoo Manacus manacus White-bearded Manakin Cercomacra cinerascens Gray Antbird
Nyctibius griseus Common Potoo Pipra erythrocephala Golden-headed Manakin Chamaeza nobilis Striated Antthrush
Cathartidae American Vultures Tyranneutes stolzmanni Dwarf Tyrant Manakin Dichrozona cincta Banded Antbird
Cathartes aura Turkey Vulture Caprimulgidae Nightjars and Nighthawks Frederickena unduligera Undulated Antshrike
Cathartes melambrotus Greater Yellow-headed Vulture Nyctidromus albicollis Pauraque Corvidae Crows, Jays, and Magpies Formicarius analis Black-faced Antthrush
Coragyps atractus Black Vulture Nyctiphrynus ocellatus Ocellated Poorwill Cyanocorax violaceus Violaceous Jay Hersilochmus dugandi Dugand's Antwren
Sarcoramphus papa King Vulture Hylophlax naevia Spot-backed Antbird
Vireos, Peppershrikes, and Shrike
Apodiformes Vireonidae Vireos Hylophylax poecilinota Scale-backed Antbird
Falconiformes Apodidae Swifts Vireo olivaceus Red-eyed Vireo Hypocnemis cantator Warbling Antbird
Accipitridae Kites, Eagles, Hawks, and Osprey Chaetura cinereiventris Grey-rumped Swift Hypocnemis hypoxantha Yellow-browed Antbird
Buteo magnirostris Roadside Hawk Streptoprocne zonaris White-collared Swift Turdidae Thrushes Myrmeciza hyperythra Plumbeous Antbird
Buteo polyosoma Variable Hawk Catharus ustulatus Swainson's Thrush Myrmeciza immaculata Sooty Antbird
Elanoides forficatus Swallow-tailed Kite Trochilidae Hummingbirds Turdus albicollis White-necked Thrush Myrmeciza melanoceps White-shouldered Antbird
Harpagus bidentatus Double-toothed Kite Amazilia franciae cyanocollis Andean Emerald Hummingbird Turdus lawrencii Lawrence's Thrush Myrmotherula hauxwelli Plain-throated Antwren
Ictinia plumbea Plumbeous Kite Amazilia fimbriata Glittering-throated Emerald Myrmotherula longipennis Long-winged Antwren
Leptodon cayanensis Gray-headed Kite Anthracothorax nigricollis Black-throated Mango Hirundinidae Swallows and Martins Myrmotherula ornata Ornate Antwren
Leucopternis melanops Black-faced Hawk Campylopterus villaviscensio Napo Sabrewing Atticora fasciata White-banded Swallow Myrmotherula obscura Short-billed Antwren
Leucopternis albicollis White Hawk Eriocnemis vestitus Glowing Puffleg Stelgidopteryx ruficollis Southern rough-winged swallow Myrmornis torquata Wing-banded Antbird
Pandion haliaetus Osprey Eutoxeres condamini Buff-tailed Sicklebill Tachycineta albiventer White-winged Swallow Myrmothera campanisona Thrush-like Antpitta
Glaucis hirsuta Rufous -breasted Hermit Phlegopsis erythroptera Reddish-winged Bare-eye
Falconidae Falcons and Caracaras Heliothryx aurita Black-eared Fairy Troglodytidae Wrens Pithys albifrons White Plumbed Antbird
Daptrius ater Black Caracara Phaethornis bourcieri Straight-billed Hermit Campylorhynchus turdinus Thrush-like Wren Thamnomanes ardesiacus Dusky-throated Antshrike
Falco rufigularis Bat Falcon Phaethornis hispidus White-bearded Hermit Donacobius atricapillus Black-capped Donacobius Thamnophilus murinus Mouse-colored Antshrike
Ibycter americanus Red-throated Caracara Phaethornis malaris Great-billed Hermit Henicorhina leucosticta White-breasted Wood-wren Thamnophilus schistaceus Plain-winged Antshrike
Herpetotheres cachinnans Laughing Falcon Thalurania furcata Fork-tailed Woodnymph Microcerculus marginatus Southern Nightingale-Wren Schistocichla leucostigma Spot-winged Antbird
Micrastur gilvicollis Lined Forest-Falcon
Tanagers, Honeycreepers,
Micrastur semitorquatus Collared Forest-Falcon Trogoniformes Polioptilidae Gnatcatchers and Gnatwrens Thraupidae Bananaquit, and Plushcap
Milvago chimachima Yellow-headed Caracara Trogonidae Trogons and Quetzals Microbates cinereiventris Tawny-faced Gnatwren Chlorophanes spiza Green Honeycreeper
Pharomachrus pavoninus Pavonine Quetzal Cissopis leveriana Magpie Tanager
Galliformes Trogon melanurus Black-tailed Trogon Parulidae New World Warblers Creugops verticalis Rufous-crested Tanager
Cracidae Curassows, Guans, and Chachalacas Trogon viridis Amazonian White-tailed Trogon Basileuterus fulvicauda Buff-rumped Warbler Cyanerpes caeruleus Purple Honeycreeper
Nothocrax urumutum Nocturnal Curassow Trogon collaris Collared Trogon Dendroica fusca Blackburnian Warbler Dacnis flaviventer Yellow-bellied Dacnis
Ortalis guttata Speckled Chachalaca Trogon rufus Black-throated Trogon Dendroica striata Blackpoll Warbler Euphonia laniirostris Thick-billed Euphonia
Penelope jacquacu Spix's Guan Trogon violaceus Amazonian Violaceous Trogon Euphonia rufiventris Rufous-bellied Euphonia
Trogon curucui Blue-crowned Trogon Piciformes Euponia xanthogaster Orange-bellied Euphonia
Odontophoridae New World Quails Galibulidae Jacamars Euphonia chrysopasta White-lored Euphonia
Odontophorus gujanensis Marbled Wood-Quail Jacamerops aureus Great Jacamar Habia rubica Red-crowned Ant-Tanager
Charadriiformes Coraciiformes Bucconidae Puffbirds Thraupidae cont.
Scolopacidae Sandpipers, Snipes and Phalaropes Alcedinidae Kingfishers Chelidoptera tenebrosa Swallow-winged Puffbird Hemithraupis flavicollis Yellow-backed Tanager
Actitis macularia Spotted Sandpiper Chloroceryle amazona Amazon Kingfisher Malacoptila fusca White-chested Puffbird Piranaga olivacea Scarlet Tanager

© Global Vision International – 2007 Page 26


Tringa solitaria Solitary Sandpiper Chloroceryle americana Green Kingfisher Monasa flavirostris Yellow-billed Nunbird Piranaga rubra Summer Tanager
Chloroceryle inda Green and Rufous Kingfisher Monasa morphoeus White-fronted Nunbird Ramphocelus carbo Silver-beaked Tanager
Recurvirostridae Plovers and Lapwings Megaceryle torquata Ringed Kingfisher Monasa nigrifrons Black-fronted Nunbird Ramphocelus nigrogularis Masked Crimson Tanager
Hoploxypterus cayanus Pied Plover Notharchus macrorynchos White-necked Puffbird Tachyphonus cristatus Flame-crested Tanager
Momotidae Motmots Tangara callophrys Opal-crowned Tanager
Gruiformes Baryphthengus martii Rufous Motmot Capitonidae New World Barbets Tangara chilensis Paradise Tanager
Rallidae Rails, Gallinules, and Coots Electron platyrhynchum Broad-billed Motmot Capita aurovirens Scarlet-crowned Barbet Tangara mexicana Turquoise Tanager
Anurolimnatus castaneiceps Chestnut-headed Crake Momotus momota Blue-crowned Motmot Capita auratus Gilded Barbet Tangara schrankii Green-and-gold Tanager
Aramides cajanea Gray-necked Wood-Rail Eubucco bourcierii Lemon-throated Barbet Tangara xanthogastra Yellow-bellied Tanager
Tyrannidae Tyrant Flycatchers Tersina viridis Swallow Tanager
Columbiformes Attila spadiceus Bright-rumped Attila Ramphastidae Toucans Thraupis episcopus Blue-gray Tanager
Columbidae Pigeons and Doves Conopias cinchoneti Lemon-browed Flycatcher Pteroglossus azara Ivory-billed Aracari Thraupis palmarum Palm Tanager
Claravis pretiosa Blue Ground-Dove Conopias parva Yellow-throated Flycatcher Pteroglossus castanotis Chestnut-eared Aracari
Columba plumbea Plumbeous Pigeon Contopus virens Eastern Wood-Pewee Pteroglossus inscriptus Lettered Aracari Cardinalidae Saltators, Grosbeaks, and Cardinals
Geotrygon montana Ruddy Quail-Dove Hemitriccus zosterops White-eyed Tody-tyrant Pteroglossus pluricinctus Many-banded Aracari Cyanocompsa cyanoides Blue-black Grosbeak
Leptotila rufaxilla Gray-fronted Dove Legatus leucophaius Piratic Flycatcher Ramphastos vitellinus Channel-billed Toucan Saltator grossus Slate-colored Grosbeak
Lipaugus vociferans Screaming Piha Ramphastos tucanus White-throated Toucan Saltator maximus Buff-throated Saltator
Psittaciformes Megarynchus piangu Boat-billed Flycatcher Selenidera reinwardtii Golden-collared Toucanet
Psittacidae Parrots and Macaws Myiarchus tuberculifer Dusky-capped Flycatcher Emberizidae Emberizine Finches
Amazona farinosa Mealy Amazon Myiarchus ferox Short-crested Flycatcher Ammodramus aurifrons Yellow-browed Sparrow
Amazona ochrocephala Yellow-crowned Amazon Myiobius barbatus Whiskered Flycatcher Picidae Woodpeckers and Piculets Oryzoborus angloensis Lesser Seed-Finch
Ara severa Chestnut-fronted Macaw Myiodynastes maculatus Streaked Flycatcher Campephilus melanoleucos Crimson-crested Woodpecker
Aratinga leucophthalmus White-eyed Parakeet Myiodynastes luteiventris Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher Campephilus rubricollis Red-necked Woodpecker Fringillidae Cardueline Finches
Aratinga weddellii Dusky-headed Parakeet Mionectes oleagineus Ochre-bellied Flycatcher Celeus elegans Chestnut Woodpecker Carduelis psaltria Lesser Goldfinch
Pionites melanocephala Black-headed Parrot Myiozetetes granadensis Gray-capped Flycatcher Celeus flavus Cream-coloured Woodpecker
Pionopsitta barrabandi Orange-cheeked Parrot Myiozetetes luteiventris Dusky-chested Flycatcher Celeus grammicus Scale-breasted Woodpecker Icteridae American Orioles and Blackbirds
Pionus menstruus Blue-headed Parrot Myiozetetes similis Social Flycatcher Chrysoptilus punctigula Spot-breasted Woodpecker Cacicus cela Yellow-rumped Cacique
Pionus chalcopterus Bronze-winged Parrot Ochthornis littoralis Drab Water-Tyrant Dryocopus lineatus Lineated Woodpecker Cacicus solitarius Solitary Cacique
Pyrrhura melanura Maroon-tailed Parakeet Pachyramphus marginatus Black-capped Becard Melanerpes cruentatus Yellow-tufted Woodpecker Clypicterus oseryi Casqued Oropendola
Pitangus sulphuratus Great Kiskadee Picumnus lafresnayi Lafresnaye's piculet Icterus chrysocephalus Moriche Oriole
Cuculiformes Rhynchocyclus olivaceus Olivaceous Flatbill Veniliornis fumigatus Smoky-brown Woodpecker Icterus croconotus Orange-backed Troupial
Cuculidae Cuckoos and Anis Rhytipterna simplex Grayish Mouner Veniliornis passerinus Little Woodpecker Molothrus oryzivorous Giant Cowbird
Crotophaga ani Smooth-billed Ani Tityra cayana Black-tailed Tityra Psarocolius angustifrons Russet-backed Oropendola
Crotophaga major Greater Ani Tityra inquisitor Black-crowned Tityra Psarocolius decumanas Crested Oropendola
Piaya cayana Squirrel Cockoo Tityra semifasciata Masked Tityra Psarocolius viridis Green Oropendola
Piaya melanogaster Black-bellied Cuckoo Todirostrum chrysocrotaphum Yellow-browed Tody-Flycatcher
Piaya melanogaster Black-bellied Cuckoo Tolmomyias poliocephalus Gray-crowned Flatbill
Tolmomyias viridiceps Olive-faced Flatbill
Tyrannulus elatus Yellow-crowned Tyrannulet
Tyrannus savana Fork-tailed Flycatcher
Tyrannus tyrannus Eastern Kingbird
Tyrannus melancholicus Tropical Kingbird
Zimmerius gracilipes Slender-footed Tyrannulet

© Global Vision International – 2007 Page 27


Mammals Reptiles Amphibians
Scientific name English name Scientific name English name Scientific name English name
Marsupialia Lizards Caecilians
Didelphidae Opossums Gekkonidae Typhlonectidae
Chironectes minimus Water opossum Gonatodes concinnatus Collared forest gecko Caecilia aff. tentaculata
Marmosa lepida Little rufous mouse opossum Gonatodes humeralis Bridled forest gecko
Long-furred woolly mouse
Micoureus demerarae opossum Pseudogonatodes guianensis Amazon pygmy gecko Plethodontidae Lungless Salamanders
Philander sp. Four-eyed opossum Bolitoglossa peruviana Dwarf climbing salamander
Gymnophphthalmidae
Xenarthra Alopoglossus striventris Black-bellied forest lizard Bufonidae Toads
Megalonychidae Arthrosaura reticulata reticulata Reticulated creek lizard Bufo marinus Cane Toad
Subfamily Choloepinae Two-toes sloths Cercosaura ocellata Rhinella complex margaritifer Crested Forest Toad
Choloepus diadactylus Southern two-toed sloth Leposoma parietale Common forest lizard Rhinella dapsilis Sharp-nosed Toad
Neusticurus ecpleopus Common streamside lizard
Dasypodidae Armadillos Prionodactylus oshaughnessyi White-striped eyed lizard Dendrophryniscus Leaf Toads
Cabassous unicinctus Southern naked-tailed armadillo Dendrophryniscus minutus Orange bellied leaf toad
Dasypus novemcinctus Nine-banded armadillo Iguanas
Hoplocercidae Centrolenidae Glass Frogs
Chiroptera Enyalioides laticeps Amazon forest dragon Centrolene sp. undescribed Glass Frog
Carollinae Short-tailed Fruit bats Cochranella anetarsia Glass Frog
Carollia brevicauda Polychrotidae Cochranella midas Glass Frog
Carollia castanea Anolis fuscoauratus Slender anole Cochranella resplendens Glass Frog
Carollia perspicullatus Short-tailed fruit bat Anolis nitens scypheus Yellow-tongued forest anole
Rhinophylla pumilio Little fruit bat Anolis ortonii Amazon bark anole Dendrobatidae Poison Frogs
Anolis punctata Amazon green anole Allobates bilinguis
Desmodontinae Vampire bats Anolis trachyderma Common forest anole Allobates insperatus
Desmodus rotundus Common vampire bat Allobates zaparo Sanguine Poison Frog
Tropiduridae Colostethus bocagei
Emballonuridae Sac-winged/Sheath-tailed Bats Tropidurus (Plica) plica Collared tree runner Dendrobates duellmani Duellmans Poison Frog
Saccopteryx bilineata White-lined bat Tropidurus (plica) umbra ochrocollaris Olive Tree Runner Epipedobates ingeri Ruby Poison Frog

Glossophaginae Long tongued bats Teiidae Hylidae Tree Frogs


Glossophaga soricina Long tongued bat Kentropyx pelviceps Forest whiptail Agalychnis craspedopus Amazon Leaf Frog
Lonchophylla robusta Spear-nosed long-tongued bat Tupinambis teguixin Golden tegu cf. Sphaenorhychus carneus Pygmy hatchet-faced Tree Frog
Dendropsophus bifurcus Upper Amazon Tree Frog
Stenodermatidae Neotropical Fruit bats Snakes Dendropsophus marmorata Neotropical Marbled Tree Frog
Artibeus jamaicensis Large fruit-eating bat Colubridae Dendropsophus punctata punctata Common Polkadot Tree Frog
Artibeus lituratus Large fruit bat Atractus elaps Earth snake sp3 Dendropsophus rhodopeplus Red Striped Tree Frog
Artibeus obscurus Large fruit bat Atractus major Earth snake Dendropsophus triangulium Variable Clown Tree Frog
Artibeus planirostus Large fruit bat Atractus occiptoalbus Earth snake sp2 Hemiphractus aff. scutatus Casque-headed Tree Frog
Chiroderma villosum Big-eyed bat Chironius fuscus Olive whipsnake Hyla lanciformis Rocket Tree Frog
Sturrnia lilium Hairy-legged bat Chironius scurruls Rusty whipsnake Hylomantis buckleyi
Sturnria oporaphilum Yellow shouldered fruit bat Clelia clelia clelia Musarana Hylomantis hulli
Uroderma pilobatum Tent-making bat Dendriphidion dendrophis Tawny forest racer Hypsiboas boans Gladiator Tree Frog
Vampyrodes caraccioli Great Stripe-faced bat Dipsas catesbyi Ornate snail-eating snake Hypsiboas calcarata Convict Tree Frog
Dipsas indica Big-headed snail-eating snake Hypsiboas geographica Map Tree Frog
Phyllostominae Spear-nosed Bats Drymoluber dichrous Common glossy racer Osteocephalus cabrerai Forest bromeliad Tree Frog
Macrophyllum macrophyllum Long-legged bat Helicops angulatus Banded south american water snake Osteocephalus cf. deridens
Mimon crenulatum Hairy-nosed bat Helicops leopardinus Spotted water snake Osteocephalus planiceps Flat-headed bromeliad Tree Frog
Phyllostomus hastatus Spear-nosed bat Imantodes cenchoa Common blunt-headed tree snake Phrynohyas resinifictrix Amazonian Milk Tree Frog
Imantodes lentiferus Amazon blunt-headed tree snake Phyllomedusa tarsius Warty Monkey Frog
Vespertilionidae Vespertilionid Bats Leptodeira annulata annulata Common cat-eyed snake Phyllomedusa tomopterna Barred Monkey Frog
Myotis nigricans Little brown bat Leptophis cupreus Brown parrot snake Phyllomedusa vaillanti White-lined monkey Tree Frog
Liophis miliaris chrysostomus White-lipped swamp snake Scinax garbei Fringe lipped Tree Frog
Primates Monkeys Liophis reginae Common swamp snake Scinax rubra Two-striped Tree Frog
Callitrichidae Oxyrhopus formosus Yellow-headed calico snake Trachycephalus venulosus Common milk Tree Frog
Saguinus nigricollis Black-mantle tamarin Oxyrhopus melanogenys Black-headed calico snake

© Global Vision International – 2007 Page 28


Cebidae Colubridae cont. Microhylidae Sheep Frogs
Allouatta seniculus Red howler monkey Oxyrhopus petola digitalus Banded calico snake Chiasmocleis bassleri Bassler's Sheep Frog
Aotus sp. Night monkey Pseustes poecilonotus polylepis Common bird snake
Cebus albifrons White-fronted capuchin Pseustes sulphureus Giant bird snake Leptodactylidae Rain Frogs
Sphlophus compressus Red-vine snake Edalorhina perezi Eyelashed Forest Frog
Carnivora Carnivores Spilotes pullatus Tiger rat snake Prystimantis acuminatus Green Rain Frog
Procyonidae Raccoon Tantilla melanocephala melanocephala Black-headed snake Prystimantis aff peruvianus Peruvian Rain Frog
Nasua nasua South american coati Xenedon rabdocephalus Common false viper Prystimantis altamazonicus Amazonian Rain Frog
Potos flavus Kinkajou Xenedon severos Giant false viper Prystimantis conspicillatus Chirping Robber Frog
Xenoxybelis argenteus Green-striped vine snake Prystimantis lanthanites Striped-throated Rain Frog
Mustelidae Weasel Prystimantis malkini Malkini's Rain Frog
Eira barbara Tayra Viperidae Prystimantis martiae Marti's rainfrog
Lontra longicaudis Neotropical otter Bothriopsis taeniata Speckeled forest pit viper Prystimantis nigrovittatus Black-banded Robber Frog
Bothrops atrox Fer-de-lance Prystimantis ockendeni Carabaya Rain Frog
Felidae Cat Prystimantis sulcatus Broad-headed Rain Frog
Herpailurus yaguarundi Jaguarundi Boidae Prystimantis variabilis Variable Rain Frog
Leopardus pardalis Ocelot Boa constrictor imperator Common boa constrictor Engystomops petersi Painted Forest Toadlet
Puma concolor Puma Corallus enydris enydris Amazon tree boa Leptodactylus andreae Cocha Chirping Frog
Epicrates cenchria gaigei Peruvian rainbow boa Leptodactylus knudseni Rose-sided Jungle Frog
Artidactyla Peccaries and Deer Leptodactylus mystaceus
Mazama americana Red brocket deer Elapidae Leptodactylus rhodomystax Moustached Jungle Frog
Tayassu tajacu Collared peccary Micurus hemprichii ortonii Orange-ringed coral snake Leptodactylus wagneri Wagneris Jungle Frog
Micrurus langsdorfii Langsdorffs coral snake Lithodytes lineatus Painted Antnest Frog
Echimyidae Micrurus lemniscatus Eastern ribbon coral snake Oreobates quixensis Common big headed Rain Frog
Dactylomys dactylinus Amazon bamboo rat Micrurus spixii spixxi Central amazon coral snake Vanzolinius discodactylus Dark-blotched Whistling Frog
Proechimys semispinosus Spiny rat Micurus surinamensis surinamensis Aquatic coral snake
Ranidae True Frogs
Sciuridae Squirrels Crocodilians Rana palmipes Neotropical Green Frog
Sciurus sp. Amazon red squirrel Alligatoridae
Sciurillus pusillus Neotropical pygmy squirrel Paleosuchus trigonatus Smooth-fronted caiman

Large Cavylike Rodents


Agouti paca Paca
Coendou bicolor Bi-color spined porcupine
Dasyprocta fuliginosa Black agouti
Hydrochaeirs hydrochaeirs Capybara
Myoprocta pratti Green acouchy

© Global Vision International – 2007 Page 29


Butterflies Butterflies Butterflies
Scientific name Scientific name Scientific name
Nymphalinae Papilionidae Charaxinae
Anartia amathae Battus belus varus Agrias claudina
Anartia jatrophae Battus polydamas Archaeoprepona amphimachus
Baeotus deucalion Papilio androgeus Archaeoprepona demophon
Bia actorion Papilio thoas cyniras Archaeoprepona demophon muson
Biblis hyperia Parides aeneas bolivar Archaeoprepona licomedes
Callicore cynosura Parides lysander Memphis arachne
Callizona acesta Parides pizarro Memphis oenomaus
Catonephele acontius Parides sesostris Memphis philomena
Catonephele esite Prepona eugenes
Catonephele numilia Satyrinae Prepona dexamenus
Colobura dirce Chloreuptychia herseis Prepona laertes
Consul fabius Cithaerias aurora Prepona pheridamas
Dynamine aerata Cithaerias pireta Zaretis itys
Dynamine arthemisia Euptychia binoculata
Dynamine athemon Euptychia ocypete Lycaenidae
Dynamine gisella Haetera macleania Thecla aetolius
Eresia pelonia Haetera piera Thecla mavors
Eunica alpais Hermeuptychia hermes
Eunica amelio Magneuptychia libye Riodinidae
Eunica volumna Magneuptychia ocnus Amarynthis meneria
Hamadryas albicornus Pareuptychia ocirrhoe Ancyluris endaemon
Hamadryas arinome Pierella astyoche Ancyluris aulestes
Hamadryas chloe Pierella hortona Ancyluris etias
Hamadryas feronia Pierella lamia Calospila cilissa
Hamadryas laodamia Pierella lena Calospila emylius
Historis odius Pierella lucia Calydna venusta
Historis acheronta Taygetis mermeria Emesis fatinella
Hypna clytemnestra Emesis lucinda
Marpesia berania Limenitidinae Emesis ocypore
Marpesia petreus Doxocopa agathina Eurybia dardus
Metamorpha elisa Doxocopa griseldis Eurybia halimede
Metamorpha sulpitia Doxocopa laurentia Eurybia unxia
Nessaea batesii Doxocopa linda Hyphilaria parthenis
Nessaea hewitsoni Isapis agyrtus
Nica flavilla Heliconinae Ithomiola floralis
Panacea prola Dryas iulia Lasaia pseudomeris
Paulogramma peristera Eueides eunice Leucochimona vestalis
Phyciodes plagiata Heliconius erato Livendula violacea
Phrrhogyra amphiro Heliconius melponmene Lyropteryx appolonia
Pyrrhogyra crameri Heliconius numata Mesophthalma idotea
Pyrrhogyra cuparina Heliconius sara Mesosemia loruhama
Pyrrhogyra otolais Heliconius xanthocles Mesosemia latizonata
Siproeta stelenes Laparus doris Napaea heteroea
Smyrna blomfildia Philaethria dido Nymphidium mantus
Temenis laothoe Nymphidium lysimon
Tigridia acesta Ithomiinae Nymphidium balbinus
Aeria eurimidea Nymphidium caricae
Pieridae Ceratinia tutia Nymphidium chione
Appias drusilla Eueides isabella Pandemos pasiphae
Dismorphia pinthous Eueides lampeto Perophtalma lasus
Eurema cf xanthochlora Eueides lybia Pirasica tyriotes
Peirhybris lorena Hyposcada anchiala Rhetus arcius
Phoebis rurina Hyposcada illinissa Rhetus periander
Hypothyris anastasia Sarota chrysus
Brassolinae Hypothyris fluonia Sarota spicata
Caligo eurilochus Ithomia amarilla Setabis gelasine
Caligo idomeneus idomeneides Ithomia salapia Stalachtis phaedusa
Caligo illioneus Mechanitis lysimnia Synargis orestessa
Caligo placidiamus Mechanitis mazaeus
Catoblepia generosa Mechanitis messenoides Limenitidiae
Catoblepia sorannus Methona confusa psamathe Adelpha amazona
Catoblepia xanthus Oleria gunilla Adelpha cocala
Opsiphanes invirae Oleria ilerdina Adelpha cytherea
Oleria tigilla Adelpha erotia
Morphinae Tithorea harmonia Adelpha iphicleola
Morpho achilles Adelpha iphiclus
Morpho deidamia Adelpha lerna
Morpho helenor Adelpha melona
Morpho menelaus Adelpha mesentina
Morpho peleides Adelpha messana
Morpho polycarmes Adelpha naxia
Adelpha thoasa
Adelpha viola
Adelpha ximena

© Global Vision International – 2007 Page 30

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