LEADER : Ian Burrows
GROUP MEMBERS : Heather Billington, Mel Billington, Gillian Broadbent, Roger Broadbent, Paul Holness, Francis Peplow and Gavin Peplow
This was the sixth Sicklebill Safaris Ltd. tour to Papua New Guinea. It was designed to find as many of the endemic species as possible, with special emphasis being placed on the birds of paradise and bowerbirds. Of the sites we visited, most were locally owned, according with Sicklebill Safaris' policy of supporting such minimum impact, sustainable tourism ventures where possible. This can only help to preserve and maintain these unique sites by providing the local people with a regular income from the intact forest, as opposed to the short-term reward and permanent habitat destruction caused by logging.
New Guinea is rightly regarded as an ornithological last frontier and during our visit we made a number of significant observations that will also be published elsewhere. Unlike most tour reports this one gives the location, number of birds seen of each species and descriptions of significant observations that were made. This is good baseline data for future visits.
On arrival at Port Moresby we based ourselves at The Hideaway Hotel which gave us easy access to the airport and was also on the right side of town to access Varirata National Park and the north-bound Hiritano Highway. After check-in we drove to the Kokoda Trail Monument on the Sogeri Plateau. It was very quiet there although we connected with our first Forest Kingfishers, Dusky Myzomelas, White-throated Honeyeaters and Helmeted Friarbirds. We quickly moved on to Varirata National Park where we tried the Tree-house trail and were rewarded with a fine Brown-headed Paradise-Kingfisher which was the best bird of the day. The picnic area held Hooded Pitohui, Boyer's Cuckoo-shrike and a small flock of Black-fronted White-eyes. The Varirata Lookout or Stream trail was quiet but we had excellent views of Pacific Baza (Crested Hawk) and two male Raggians Birds of Paradise near the Lookout. Next day we tried the Tree-house trail again and had great views of three Brown-headed Paradise-Kingfishers. We then explored the Circuit track where we saw a juvenile Brown-headed Paradise-Kingfisher, three White-shouldered Fairy-Wrens in a fern tangle, single Spot-winged and Golden Monarchs, a pair of Frilled Monarchs and a female Eastern Riflebird. In the lower picnic area we found two Dwarf Honeyeaters and a Papuan Black Myzomela before setting off along the Gare's Lookout trail. A newly-moulted Papuan Taipan made its way quickly off the track but it did cause us to look at our feet for a while. We were soon looking up at a kitten-like head poking out of a tree hole; the bird then quickly popped out on to an exposed branch and gave us fabulous views, a magical Barred Owlet-nightjar. A bird that is normally very difficult to find and even harder to see well. We had good views of a pair of Yellow-eyed Cuckoo-shrikes further along the trail and also pinned down a mobile flock of Black-fronted White-eyes. We were also treated to a flock of Rusty Pitohuis and a pair of Grey Whistlers but there was little to be seen from the Lookout itself. We made our way back to the picnic area where we saw a Streak-headed Honeyeater before driving up to Varirata Lookout where the Raggiana lek held three adult males, an immature male and two females; a fitting end to a good day.The next morning we tried the Gare's Lookout trail again, this time with considerable success. Stout-billed, Black and Yellow-eyed Cuckoo-shrikes all showed well whilst White-faced Robins appeared for some and a couple of us got good but brief views of a Chestnut-backed Jewel-babbler by the track. At the Lookout we had reasonable views of a pair of Papuan King Parrots, Fairy Gerygone, Pale-billed Scrub-wren and six Buff-faced Pygmy-Parrots. We spent the afternoon at the Pacific Adventist University where we had excellent views of a good range of marshland and savanna species including Great, Intermediate and Little Egrets, Pied Herons, Cattle Egrets and several Rufous Night-Herons. A Black Bittern was flushed from a drainage ditch and two Buff-banded Rails were seen by the settling ponds. The ornamental ponds held at least 200 Pacific Black Ducks, at least 40 Wandering Whistling Ducks and amazingly, 6 Plumed Whistling Ducks. These six birds were probably forced to migrate by the severe drought in northern Australia and were the first to be seen in Papua New Guinea for many years. 23 Spotted Whistling Ducks roosted in the trees by the settling ponds, along with two White-headed Shelducks which were probably also drought refugees. Other highlights there was the pair of Papuan Frogmouths in the Albizzia trees, the four Orange-fronted Fruit-Doves which perched on a bare tree and the Fawn-breasted Bowerbird's bower which was so ably described by the genial resident ornithologist Dr. Mike Tarburton.
Next day we explored the Hiritano Highway where the Hisiu mangroves held all the specialists of that coastal habitat. We had good looks at Collared Kingfisher, Mangrove Robin, Mangrove Golden Whistler, Mangrove and Large-billed Gerygones, Broad-billed Flycatcher and Brown-backed Honeyeater. A Yellow-billed Kingfisher responded really well to a tape of its own voice, perching out in the open for several minutes. The savanna area near Aroa Service Station held good numbers of White-winged Trillers and we also had great views of White-throated Gerygone and Lemon-bellied Flycatcher whilst the service station itself produced its regular resident Silver-eared Honeyeater.
Our next destination was Myola, a high altitude grassland and forest area in the Owen Stanley mountains. Our chartered Twin Otter carried us there safely and deposited us on the grass airstrip. We enjoyed some fantastic birding in this place made all the more memorable by the beauty of the surroundings. Here there were both Lewin's Rails and Spotless Crakes in a small marshy spot near our accommodation and the forest held some absolute gems which we tracked down over the next three days. Our stay at Myola brought us some brilliant birds, an immature Meyer's Goshawk called almost incessantly to one of its parents from its preferred perch each day whilst Spotted Jewel-babblers, Lesser Melampittas, New Guinea Logrunners and Forbes' Forest-Rails were all seen on several occasions. A Mountain Owlet-nightjar was discovered in its tree hole daytime roost so we had brilliant photographic opportunities there. A fruiting tree proved attractive to a Madarasz's Tiger-Parrot and also brought in a female Macgregor's Bowerbird. Small birds were quite numerous and we were treated to a busy flock of Black Sittellas and daily sightings of Black-breasted Boatbill, Fan-tailed Berrypecker and Canary Flycatcher. A mist net set to catch some scrub-wrens for closer inspection caught all three resident species and also another long-standing resident. An Ashy Robin was caught which had been ringed years ago by Ian during the time when the PNG Bird Society was active. A subsequent check of the data showed it had been ringed as an adult bird, caught on the same path, on 26 September 1987; making it almost nineteen years old. This must be a longevity record for the Australasian Robins.
Our charter back to Port Moresby was on time and we had good views of at least eighteen Australian Pratincoles at Jackson's airport where we also saw the only Glossy Ibis of the trip. We spent the afternoon at Lea Lea where we had excellent views of White-faced Heron (another drought refugee?), white-phase Reef Egret and Blue-winged Kookaburra.
Our next destination was Kikori where we stayed at Delta Lodge, near the airstrip, as the Oilsearch base at Kopi was full. The weather was reasonably dry for Gulf Province and we were able to explore the area without getting too wet. Big birds are something of a speciality here and we had great views of Eclectus Parrots, Palm Cockatoos, Blyth's Hornbills and Vulturine Parrots along the Pipeline road. We also had stunning views of a displaying male Twelve-wired Bird of Paradise on a dead tree just after dawn which will linger long in the memory. Other gems seen along the Pipeline road included several Blue Jewel-babblers, a pair of White-throated Pigeons, two Beautiful Fruit-Doves, an amazing eight Papuan Hanging Parrots, many Golden Cuckoo-shrikes, several Lowland Peltops and a single but very welcome White-crowned Koel.
We then flew on to Kiunga, an excellent birding hotspot near the Irian Jaya border. An afternoon visit to K17 on the Tabubil road produced three male and two female Greater Birds of Paradise and two male Raggiana Birds of Paradise. We were also treated to great views of Zoe Imperial-Pigeon, and Crinkle-collared and Trumpet Manucodes. Next morning we explored the Boystown road and had great views of a pair of Long-billed Cuckoos. Greater Streaked Lories fed in a nearby flowering tree and we had excellent 'scope views of them plus a good range of other species including Double-eyed Fig-Parrot, Yellow-bellied Longbill, Obscure Honeyeater and more male Greater Birds of Paradise. An afternoon walk along the Gre-Drimgas road produced good views of Papuan Spinetails, Dwarf Fruit-Dove, Lesser Black Coucal and Streak-headed Honeyeater but the calling Hooded Pitta remained in cover. A patient wait until dark produced excellent views of a pair of Papuan Nightjars hawking insects over a clearing to end the day on a high note. Next day a boat trip up the Elevala River produced large numbers of Collared Imperial Pigeons early on and a couple of Great-billed Herons lurched off upriver but we suffered for the first few hours with very heavy rain. A stopoff at Ekame Lodge to feed and dry out restored spirits and we then explored the trails nearby. As usual here, we were made to work quite hard for our birds. Common Paradise-Kingfishers showed well but the Lesser Paradise-Kingfisher proved difficult and we only heard it calling distantly. The resident male King Bird of Paradise performed wonderfully well for us and a perched Blue-breasted Pitta gave marvellous 'scope views. The local White-bellied Pitohuis were fairly straightforward although we were fortunate to connect with a Greater Black Coucal and Hooded Monarch. We continued our search downriver and after a nervous couple of hours in the late afternoon we finally connected with the huge and very impressive Southern Crowned Pigeon which flew out of cover to perch on an exposed branch. For most of us it was the best bird of the trip. We then headed downriver to Kiunga and the last bird of the day was a White-throated Nightjar spotlighted in riverside vegetation near the town.
Next day we had the first hours of daylight at K17 for the bird of paradise display and then drove on to Tabubil. En-route we saw the endemic race (?) of Little Ringed Plover and an immature Grey-headed Goshawk at K120. We stopped off at Ok Menga and did well with good views of Salvadori's Teal and two Torrent Flycatchers on the main river and two Torrent Larks which were brilliantly spotted by Gavin along a small side stream.
Dablin creek was excellent, the Carola's Parotias which were our main target species were feeding in a fruiting tree, quite close to the road. We had excellent 'scope views of an adult male, an immature male and three females often right out in the open. An Obscure Berrypecker was seen by the road, as was the more elusive White-rumped Robin. Other interesting birds there included White-eared Bronze-Cuckoo, Black-shouldered Cuckoo-shrike, at least three female Magnificent Birds of Paradise and Slaty-chinned Longbill but the most unusual was a Streaked Berrypecker feeding in a fruiting tree.
We then flew from Tabubil to Mt Hagen for our next taste of high altitude New Guinea birding. A two hour drive uphill to Kumul Lodge was uneventful but at the Lodge we were soon treated to close views of several delightful species. White-winged Robins hopped among the flower beds, Red-collared Myzomelas and Grey-streaked Honeyeaters fed from the garden flowers and a Crested Berrypecker perched in the low bushes. Many of the birds here are very tame thanks to the embargo on hunting that has been imposed in the area by the local landowners. The birds have responded by largely ignoring humans and now give birders unrivalled views and fantastic photographic opportunities.
The next morning an early downhill bus ride took us to Tapuka quarry and we only had to wait for a few minutes for the dream-bird to appear. First he called and then leapt on to an exposed branch where he crowed and shook himself; a resplendent male Blue Bird of Paradise right there in front of us. Happy birders observed and photographed his every move and he really performed to the gallery, all with a supporting cast of Ornate Melidectes, Great Woodswallows, a male Superb Bird of Paradise and two Yellow-breasted Bowerbirds.
We had a lot of fun at Kumul Lodge and in its surrounds; the birds were just lovely and the weather was kind to us by high mountain standards. Brehm's Tiger Parrots gave us lovely views, as did Blue-capped Ifritas, a Rufous-throated Bronze-Cuckoo and a female Archbold's Bowerbird which was escorting a juvenile. There is a feeding station in the Lodge garden and it was regularly visited by a female Brown Sicklebill although the highlight there was two displaying male Ribbon-tailed Astrapias which appeared for just a few minutes. The watercress bed by the Lodge is the usual haunt of a pair of Chestnut Forest Rails and our occasional waits there eventually paid off with great looks at a pair although the hoped-for Rufous Woodcock didn't appear. John the orchid gardener saved the day though by herding one into view by the security staff huts one evening and we had an excellent view in the spotlight. Max's trail below the Lodge also produced some excellent birds. The slippery scramble was well worth the effort as we had marvellous looks at displaying male King of Saxony Birds of Paradise although the slog over the next ridge for the Macgregor's Bowerbird bower took us to the limit. Whenever a Papua New Guinean remarks that the trail is a bit steep, think near-vertical!
Our next destination was Tari which was of course, much anticipated as were staying at the highly regarded Ambua Lodge. We flew in to Tari only to be told by the Lodge bus driver that there was a road block on the way up to the Lodge. The solution was to take the Chief of Police up with us and since he was armed we got through without too much trouble. The Lodge was very comfortable and we were soon in the groove. Birding was similar in many respects to the Kumul Lodge area but the Tari valley holds some great specialities. We spent our first morning waiting for torrential rain to clear, then a walk along the Waterfall trail produced a flock of Papuan Sittellas, three Hooded Cuckoo-shrikes and two Tit Berrypeckers. Afterwards, a visit to a nearby garden paid off with good looks at Short-tailed Paradigalla, a Papuan Treecreeper and much to everyone's delight, a male Wattled Ploughbill. The following day was spent around the Tari Gap where we had excellent views of both male Brehm's and male Painted Tiger-Parrots, Papuan Lorikeets and Garnet Robin among many other high mountain species. Next day a trip down the valley produced some wonderful sightings of a Greater Sooty Owl at its tree-hole roost and great looks at a male Lawes' Parotia and another male Superb Bird of Paradise. This was the only area where we connected with Red-breasted Pygmy-Parrot but it was a marvellous experience to be so close to a family party on these endearing creatures. The garden at Pigonda also held a roosting pair of Papuan Boobooks which were duly admired and photographed. Our last morning at Ambua was most memorable. An early morning visit to Warili Lodge in clearing weather produced a distant view of a male Black Sicklebill which to our amazement went through a full display routine which has hardly ever been seen by outsiders (see report for description). After that we thought we had seen it all but the last hour resembled the Keystone Cops. Some of us packed quickly and had a last vigil along the entry road. Joseph spotted a Yellowish-streaked Honeyeater, only notable for its extreme rarity. Leaving Gavin and Francis on the bird I alerted the others who were packing, some saw it and others didn't. However, the searchers found a pair of Papuan Parrot-Finches and a pair of Wattled Ploughbills to end our visit to Ambua Lodge on the shrillest of notes.
We then flew to Port Moresby and the following day was spent exploring some of the outer reaches of Varirata National Park. The walk along the Varirata Lookout trail, then along the Scarp trail to Gare's Lookout and back along the Gare's Lookout trail was very productive and well worth the effort. A pair of Dwarf Kingfishers gave us great views as did a Yellow-billed Kingfisher above Varirata Lookout. A very speedy Papuan Taipan increased adrenaline levels as it turned back across the path to pass just in front of Roger's foot. Shortly afterwards an excellent Hooded Pitta appeared on the path and hopped along it with us in quiet but shaky pursuit. Further on, two Crinkle-collared Manucodes gave good views and on reaching Gare's Lookout we found an immature male Magnificent Bird of Paradise and a superbly confiding Buff-faced Pygmy-Parrot. Coming back through the Casuarina grove, Gill spotted a male Eastern Riflebird on the opposite ridge which gave us good if distant 'scope views.
The next ten days were spent in the Bismarck Archipelago and Admiralty Islands but for continuity the last area visited after that is reported here. On leaving New Ireland we flew to Lae from where we took a charter flight to Wasu on the Huon Peninsula. We then drove up to Gatop village in the Lutheran Mission's truck and stayed at the very run down school there. Conditions were primitive and the transport tenuous at best but our aim was to see as many of the Huon endemics as possible. In this we succeeded admirably. As soon as we had got organised Daniel took us to an Emperor Bird of Paradise display site. This proved difficult to watch but we had excellent views of a male Eastern Riflebird instead. Heavy rain followed but when it cleared we found another display area and soon we were treated to a wonderful display by several males, one of which did a full yellow powder-puff inversion which Gill got on video. The other endemics were to be found higher up so next day we struck out for Satop Lookout. As soon as we arrived we saw male Huon Astrapias in the treetops across the valley. In good light we had excellent 'scope views. Just below the Lookout, Spangled Honeyeaters were quite common and we also got good looks at Cinnamon-browed Melidectes. The following day we tried at the Lookout again and saw a fine Vulturine Parrot. Just below the Lookout we had great views of six Little Red Lorikeets and further down, a taped call attracted a Mountain Kingfisher into a tree by the road. A female Wahne's Parotia then appeared nearby and was seen through the course of the day following a regular circuit, often disappearing into an epiphyte cluster where she probably had a nest. A female Huon Bowerbird appeared in another roadside tree for a short while, that too put in several appearances in the same area. We were much troubled by the Huon Melidectes whose call is very similar to Belford's which it replaces on the Huon. There the behavioural resemblance ends; the Huon Melidectes is very wary bird and although we saw it, we had to be content with distant views or overflies. The Gatop village area also produced some interesting observations, notably a pair of very bright Lemon-bellied Flycatchers with a young in nest. A male Brown Cuckoo-Dove was seen in close association with a female Black-billed Cuckoo-Dove which begs the question of hybridisation occurring. Here we also saw yet another Meyer's Goshawk and two of the elegant northern race of the Pink-spotted Fruit-Dove. Despite the tribulations of primitive accommodation and the strains experienced by a very long trip, the visit to this very remote area was remarkably rewarding. We saw almost all of the regional endemics really well.
On leaving Wasu we flew to Lae and on to Port Moresby where our last morning in Papua New Guinea was spent along the Gare's Lookout trail in Varirata National Park. We paid our respects to the Barred Owlet-nightjar in its tree hole roost and had good looks at yet another Yellow-billed Kingfisher but otherwise the Park was quiet. A final visit to the Pacific Adventist University got us an Australian White Ibis, the last trip tick and a new bird for many of us; a fitting end to a very eventful and worthwhile tour.
A ballot to decide the best birds of the trip, including those seen on the Islands section, produced the following uncontentious result :
1 Southern Crowned Pigeon 2 Superb Pitta
3 King of Saxony Bird of Paradise 4 Emperor Bird of Paradise
5 Mountain Kingfisher 6 Twelve-wired Bird of Paradise
7 Blue Bird of Paradise 8 Salvadori's Teal
9 Rufous Woodcock 10 King Bird of Paradise
This five-week tour around many of the well-known sites and some almost unexplored areas of Papua New Guinea produced a very healthy list of sightings. We missed a few and some of the birds we saw are the stuff of dreams. The challenge is now there for subsequent tours of similar duration to better what we saw; it will take some doing.
04 July: Singapore, depart for Port Moresby.
05 July: Arrive Port Moresby, visit Kokoda Trail Monument, Varirata National
Park, Varirata Lookout trail, stay at the Hideaway Hotel, Port Moresby.
06 July: Varirata National Park, Circuit trail, Gare's Lookout trail and
Varirata Lookout.
07 July: Varirata National Park, Gare's Lookout trail and Pacific Adventist
University
08 July: Hiritano Highway, Hisiu mangroves and Aroa area.
09 July: Charter to Myola.
10 July: Myola.
11 July: Myola.
12 July: Charter to port Moresby, Lea Lea in afternoon, stay at Hideaway
Hotel.
13 July: Fly to Kikori, Pipeline road, stay at Delta Lodge, Kikori.
14 July: Pipeline road..
15 July: Pipeline road.
16 July: Charter flight to Kiunga, visit K17 on the Tabubil road, stay at Kiunga
Guest House.
17 July: Kiunga, Boystown (Kokonda) and Gre -Drimgas roads.
18 July: Elevala River all day.
19 July: K17 and K120, Dablin creek and Ok Menga; stay at Hotel Cloudlands.
20 July: Dablin creek
21 July: Dablin Creek, Tabubil airport, Mt Hagen and Kumul Lodge area; stay
at Kumul Lodge.
22 July: Tapuka quarry and Kumul Lodge area in afternoon.
23 July: Wapenamanda road, Max's trail and Kumul Lodge area.
24 July: Kumul Lodge area.
25 July: Mt Hagen airport, Tari airport and Ambua Lodge
26 July: Waterfall trail and upper Tari valley.
27 July: Bailey bridge area, Tari Gap, Benson's trail and Tari Gap grasslands.
28 July: Alukambe and Pigonda villages, Waterfall trail and quarry near bailey
bridge.
29 July: Warili Lodge, Hydro trail, Tari airport, Mendi airport and back to Port
Moresby, stay at Hideaway Hotel.
30 July: Varirata National Park, Boundary track, Varirata Lookout, Scarp
and Gare's Lookout trails.
31 July: Jackson's airport, Port Moresby to Manus Island beginning the Islands
section of the tour, including West New Britain & New Ireland.
10 August : Kavieng to Lae (Nadzab) airport, overnight Lae International Hotel.
11 August : Lae (Nadzab) airport, charter flight to Wasu, Gatop village area,
stay at Gatop village.
12 August : Satop Lookout and Satop village.
13 August : Satop Lookout area.
14 August : Gatop to Wasu, Lae (Nadzab) airport and Port Moresby, stay at
Hideaway Hotel.
15 August : Varirata National Park, Gare's Lookout trail and the Pacific
Adventist University, afternoon Singapore flight, stopover in Singapore.
Altitude in metres for some of the significant sites visited :
Varirata National Park 760m Myola 2075 m
Kopi camp, Kikori 16m Elevala River (Ekame Lodge) 45m
Ok Menga 700m Dablin Creek 720m
Mt Hagen town 1650m Tapuka quarry 1792m
Kumul Lodge 2809 Ambua Lodge 2040m
Warili Lodge 1975m Tari Gap 2660m
Gatop village 900m Satop Lookout 1800m
Species which were heard but not seen are indicated by the symbol (H).
FREGATIDAE
Lesser Frigatebird Fregata ariel : A single male was seen over Lea Lea.
PHALACROCORACIDAE
Little Black Cormorant Phalacrocorax sulcirostris : Over 40 were seen at the Pacific
Adventist University, 15 along the Hiritano Highway and single birds were
noted at Kikori and Kiunga.
Little Pied Cormorant Phalacrocorax melanoleucos : 2 were seen at the Pacific
Adventist University and single birds were noted near Kiunga, Nadzab and in
the Laloki River valley.
ANHINGIDAE
Darter Anhinga novaehollandiae : Single birds were seen near Aroa, over Kopi camp
near Kikori and along the Elevala River.
SULIDAE
Brown Booby Sula leucogaster : 2 were seen from Hisiu beach and at Lea Lea.
ARDEIDAE
Great-billed Heron Ardea sumatrana : An adult and an immature were seen along the
Elevala River.
Great Egret Egretta alba : 6 were seen along the Elevala River and at Jackson's
Airport, Port Moresby. 2 were seen at the Pacific Adventist University, along
the Hiritano Highway and at Kopi camp near Kikori.
Pied Heron Egretta picata : 12 were seen at the Pacific Adventist University and up to 3
were noted in the Laloki River valley.
Intermediate Egret Egretta intermedia : 8 were seen at the Pacific Adventist
University, up to 6 seen in the Laloki River valley, up to 4 at Kopi camp near
Kikori and a singleton was noted at Tabubil Airport.
Little Egret Egretta garzetta : Singles were seen at the Pacific Adventist University and
on the new rice fields in the Laloki River valley.
Pacific Reef-Heron Egretta sacra : 2 white phase birds were seen at Lea Lea and a dark
phase bird was seen at Hisiu beach.
Cattle Egret Egretta ibis : At least 50 were seen in the Laloki River valley, at the
Pacific Adventist University and at Jackson's Airport, Port Moresby.
White-faced Heron Egretta novaehollandiae : 3 were seen at Lea Lea and up to 2 were
seen daily at Kopi camp near Kikori.
Striated Heron Ardeola striata: 2 were seen along the Elevala River.
Rufous Night-Heron Nycticorax caledonicus : 10 were seen at the Pacific Adventist
University.
Black Bittern Ixobrychus flavicollis: A single bird was flushed from a drainage ditch at
the Pacific Adventist University
THRESKIORNITHIDAE
Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus : A single bird was seen at Jackson's Airport, Port
Moresby.
Australian White Ibis Threskiornis molucca : A single bird was seen at the Pacific
Adventist University.
ANATIDAE
Spotted Whistling Duck Dendrocygna guttata : 23 were seen in their preferred roost
trees near the sewage settling ponds at the Pacific Adventist University.
Plumed Whistling Duck Dendrocygna eytoni : 6 were seen among the Wanderers at the
Pacific Adventist University. These birds were probably part of an avian
exodus from drought-ridden Northern Australia and were the first to be
seen in PNG for over 35 years.
Wandering Whistling Duck Dendrocygna arcuta : At least 40 were seen at the Pacific
Adventist University.
White-headed Shelduck Tadorna radjah : 2 were seen in the trees with the Spotted
Whistling Ducks at the Pacific Adventist University.
Salvadori's Teal Anas waigiuensis : A single bird was seen on the river at Ok Menga.
Pacific Black Duck Anas superciliosa : At least 200 were seen at the Pacific Adventist
University and 12 were on the sea at Lea Lea.
ACCIPITRIDAE
Pacific Baza (Crested Hawk) Aviceda subcristata : Up to 4 were seen at Varirata
National Park, 2 along the Pipeline road, Kikori, at Gatop village, K17 near
Kiunga and along the Elevala River and a singleton was noted at Hisiu
mangroves.
Long-tailed Buzzard Henicopernis longicauda : Up to 6 were seen daily along the
Pipeline road, Kikori, up to 3 in Varirata National Park and a singleton was
noted at K17 near Kiunga.
Black-shouldered Kite Elanus caeruleus : A single bird was seen en-route to Kumul
Lodge.
Black Kite
Milvus migrans : At least 30 were seen between Mt Hagen and Kumul
Lodge, 20 at Kagamuga Airport, Mt Hagen, 10 were seen at Nadzab and
singletons were seen in the Laloki River valley and at Jackson's Airport, Port
Moresby.
Whistling Kite Haliastur sphenurus : At least 30 were seen around Hisiu mangroves
and beach, 10 were seen near Lea Lea and 2 were seen at the Pacific
Adventist University and at Kikori.
Brahminy Kite Haliastur indus : Regularly encountered in the lowlands with up to 6
seen along the Hiritano Highway and the Elevala River and smaller numbers
elsewhere. Single birds were seen near Dablin creek and in the Tari valley.
Papuan Harrier Circus spilonotus : An adult male and female were seen at Kagamuga
Airport, Mt Hagen, at Jackson's Airport, Port Moresby and an immature
male and a female were seen at Tari Gap. An adult male was seen at Myola
and a female was seen near Hisiu mangroves. A bird seen at Tari Gap which
showed no trace of a pale rump patch was initially considered to be Swamp
Harrier C. approximans but was later confidently identified as a juvenile
Papuan Harrier.
Brown Goshawk Accipiter fasciatus : Single birds were seen at Tabubil and Mt Hagen
Airports and another was seen at Tapuka quarry.
Variable Goshawk Accipiter novaehollandiae : Up to 3 were seen daily along the
Pipeline road, Kikori, 2 near Gatop village, Huon Peninsula and singles were
seen along the Boystown road near Kiunga and along the Elevala River.
Black-mantled Goshawk Accipiter melanochlamys : An adult bird gave us excellent
views at Satop Lookout, Huon Peninsula, and an immature was seen briefly at
Myola.
Grey-headed Goshawk Accipiter poliocephalus : Single adult birds were seen daily
along the Pipeline road, Kikori and an immature gave excellent views at K120
near Tabubil.
Collared Sparrowhawk Accipiter cirrhocephalus : A single bird was seen sparring with
a Brown Falcon Falco berigora near Jackson's Airport, Port Moresby.
Meyer's Goshawk Accipiter meyerianus : An adult and a very vocal immature bird
were seen daily at Myola, usually perched in a hillside tree. Single adult birds
were also seen near Satop Lookout and Gatop village on the Huon Peninsula.
New Guinea Harpy-Eagle Harpyopsis novaeguineae : (H) One was heard calling
along the far reaches of the Boundary track, Varirata National Park.
Gurney's Eagle Aquila gurneyi : One was seen briefly by IB from Varirata Lookout.
Little Eagle Hieraaetus morphnoides : Single birds were seen near Ambua Lodge, from
Satop Lookout and near Gatop village, Huon Peninsula.
FALCONIDAE
Brown Falcon Falco berigora : 2 were seen at Nadzab and single birds were seen at
Varirata Lookout, Jackson's Airport, Myola, Satop Lookout and Gatop
village, Huon Peninsula.
Australian Kestrel Falco cenchroides : 3 were seen at Kikori airstrip, 2 at Kiunga
Airport and along the Gre-Drimgas road and singles were noted at Tabubil
playing field and Tabubil, Mt Hagen and Tari Airports
Oriental Hobby
Falco severus : A single immature was seen at Hotel Cloudlands,
Tabubil.
Australian Hobby Falco longipennis : An immature bird was seen perched in a
roadside tree along the road to Lea Lea.
MEGAPODIIDAE
Orange-footed Megapode Megapodius reinwardt : A single bird was seen at Myola,
which at 2075metres must be at the altitudinal limit for this species. Calling
birds were also noted at Hisiu mangroves.
Black-billed Brush Turkey Talegalla fuscirostris : Single birds were flushed from
trees along the Pipeline road, Kikori and along the Elevala River and others
were heard in Varirata National Park.
PHASIANIDAE
Brown Quail Coturnix australis : 3 were seen by the roadside in the grasslands at Tari
Gap.
Blue-breasted Quail Coturnix chinensis : 2 birds were seen in the the grasslands at
Myola.
TURNICIDAE
Red-backed Button-Quail Turnix maculosa : A single bird was flushed by our
vehicle in the grasslands at Lea Lea
RALLIDAE
Buff-banded Rail Rallus philippensis : 2 birds were seen by the sewage settling ponds
at the Pacific Adventist University and a single bird was seen at Ambua
Lodge.
Lewin's Rail Rallus pectoralis : A single bird gave brief, close views in a small marsh at
Myola.
Chestnut Forest-Rail Rallina rubra : A pair were seen on two occasions at the
watercress bed at Kumul Lodge giving excellent views. An old nest was also
found at the base of a tree near Tari Gap
Forbes' Forest-Rail Rallina forbesi : Careful stalking, patience and a bit of luck
produced brief sightings of 3 of these elusive birds along a forest trail at
Myola.
Spotless Crake Porzana tabuensis : A presumed pair were seen in a small marsh in the
grasslands at Myola, near the accommodation area. A single bird was seen
there three days later.
Bush Hen Amaurornis olivaceus : 2 were seen at Dablin creek, Tabubil.
Dusky Moorhen Gallinula tenebrosa : At least 4 were seen at the Pacific Adventist
University including one bird on a nest.
Purple Swamphen Porphyrio porphyrio : At least 30 were seen at the Pacific Adventist
University and up to 4 were noted at Jackson's Airport, Port Moresby.
JACANIDAE
Comb-crested Jacana Irediparra gallinacea : 4 were seen at the Pacific Adventist
University.
GLAREOLIDAE
Australian Pratincole Stiltia isabella : Up to 18 were seen at Jackson's Airport, Port
Moresby and 2 noted at Tari Airport and a singleton at Kikori Airstrip.
CHARADRIIDAE
Masked Lapwing Vanellus miles : At least 16 were seen at the Pacific Adventist
University including a bird on nest. At least 8 were seen along the Hiritano
Highway and up to 5 were seen at Jackson's Airport, Port Moresby.
Pacific Golden Plover Pluvialis fulva : 16 were seen at Lea Lea.
Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius : 2 birds of the resident race papuanus were
seen at K120 en-route to Tabubil. Leg and eye ring colours differ from the
migrant race curonicus and as the voices differ too there is the distinct
possibility of a split being proposed by an authority before long.
Greater Sand-Plover Charadrius leschenaultii : 6 were seen on the beach at Lea Lea.
Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus : 5 were seen on the beach at Hisiu and one was at Lea
Lea.
Grey-tailed Tattler Tringa brevipes : 15 were seen on the beach at Lea Lea.
Terek Sandpiper Xenus cinereus : A single bird was seen on the beach at Lea Lea.
Rufous Woodcock Scolopax saturata : One of these rarely-observed birds was
spotlighted at Kumul Lodge. The bird was seen foraging amongst the leaf
litter in the Lodge grounds.
LARIDAE
Gull-billed Tern Gelochelidon nilotica : 6 were seen at Lea Lea.
Bridled Tern Sterna anaethetus : Over 20 were seen at long range from Hisiu beach.
Crested Tern Sterna bergii : At least 10 were seen from Hisiu beach.
Brown Noddy Anous stolidus : Over 200 were seen at long range from Hisiu beach and
at least 30 were seen from Lea Lea.
COLUMBIDAE
Rock Pigeon Columba livia : A flock of at least 15 of this unwelcome feral species was
seen at Jackson's Airport, Port Moresby and 6 were seen at Mt Hagen.
White-throated Pigeon Columba vitiensis : A pair of these rarely-observed birds gave
excellent perched views along the Pipeline road, Kikori.
Slender-billed (Brown) Cuckoo-Dove Macropygia amboinensis : This widespread
species was seen in all of the lowland and foothill localities we visited. Best
counts were 6 along the Pipeline road near Kikori and at Tapuka quarry, at
least 5 in Varirata National Park and 4 along both the Boystown and Gre-
Drimgas roads near Kiunga.
Black-billed Cuckoo-Dove
Macropygia nigrirostris : Up to 3 were seen at Kumul
Lodge, 2 at Tari Gap and Pigonda village in the Tari valley and a single bird
was seen in close association (paired?) with a Slender-billed Cuckoo-Dove
near Gatop village, Huon Peninsula.
Great Cuckoo-Dove Reinwardtoena reinwardtii : Up to 4 were seen daily along the
Pipeline road near Kikori and up to 2 were seen daily near Satop Lookout,
Huon Peninsula.
Emerald Dove Chalocphaps indica : A single bird was seen flying across the road near
Kopi camp, Kikori.
New Guinea Bronzewing Henicophaps albifrons : A couple of us saw one flying low
over the Pipeline road, Kikori.
Peaceful Dove Geopelia striata : At least 4 were seen at Hisiu mangroves and Lea Lea
and 1 or 2 others were noted in the Laloki River valley.
Bar-shouldered Dove Geopelia striata : At least 5 were seen at Hisiu mangroves and
a singleton was noted at Lea Lea.
Grey-breasted Quail-Dove (Bronze Ground-Dove) Gallicolumba beccari : A single
immature bird was seen at Myola.
Pheasant Pigeon Otidiphaps nobilis : (H) Heard several times along the path to Gare's
Lookout, Varirata National Park.
Southern Crowned Pigeon Goura scheepmakeri : After some effort we had good views
of 2 birds perched in trees along the Elevala River late in the afternoon. 2
others were also seen briefly on the river bank above Ekame Lodge. A truly
spectacular species and a major highlight of the trip.
Wompoo Fruit-Dove Ptilinopus magnificus : 2 were seen along the Pipeline road,
Kikori and others were heard in Varirata National Park and along the
Boystown and Gre-Drimgas roads near Kiunga.
Pink-spotted Fruit-Dove Ptilinopus perlatus : Small numbers of this attractive species
were seen at most of the lowland and foothill sites we visited with 10 in a
fruiting tree along the Gre-Drimgas road near Kiunga being the maximum
count. 2 of the distinctive grey-headed race were seen at Gatop village, Huon
Peninsula.
Ornate Fruit-Dove Ptilinopus ornatus : 5 were seen along the Elevala River and up to
12 were seen daily between Gatop village and Satop Lookout, Huon
Peninsula.
Orange-fronted Fruit-Dove Ptilinopus aurantiifrons : 4 were seen at the Pacific
Adventist University, 3 at Hisiu mangroves and a single, immature bird was
noted along the Gre-Drimgas road near Kiunga.
Superb Fruit-Dove Ptilinopus superbus : Up to 5 were seen at Varirata National Park
and singles were noted along the Elevala River, at K17 near Kiunga and at
Dablin creek, Tabubil.
Beautiful Fruit-Dove Ptilinopus pulchellus : 2 were seen along the Pipeline road,
Kikori, and single birds were noted along the Boystown road, at K17 near
Kiunga, along the Elevala River and near Satop village, Huon Peninsula.
White-breasted Fruit-Dove Ptilinopus rivoli : 4 were seen at Myola and at Satop
Lookout, Huon Peninsula and singletons were noted on two occasions in the
grounds of Ambua Lodge.
Orange-bellied Fruit-Dove Ptilinopus iozonus : Up to 12 were seen daily along the
Pipeline road near Kikori, at least 8 at K17 near Kiunga, at least 30 were
noted along the Boystown and Gre-Drimgas roads and 2 were seen near
Gatop village, Huon Peninsula.
Dwarf Fruit-Dove Ptilinopus nanus : 4 were seen along the Pipeline road, Kikori and
remarkably, 10 were seen along the Gre-Drimgas road, near Kiunga.
Purple-tailed Imperial Pigeon Ducula rufigaster : 2 were seen near Ekame Lodge and
2 were seen near Gatop village, Huon Peninsula.
Pinon Imperial Pigeon Ducula pinon : Up to 20 were seen on most days along the
Pipeline road near Kikori and at least 10 were seen along the Elevala River
with 1 or 2 noted along the Boystown and Gre-Drimgas roads near Kiunga.
Collared Imperial Pigeon Ducula muellerii : At least 200 were seen along the Elevala
River.
Zoe Imperial Pigeon Ducula zoeae : 4 were seen along the Boystown road and at K17
near Kiunga and 2 were noted along the Gre-Drimgas road and at Varirata
National Park. A single bird was seen nest building near Wasu, Huon
Peninsula.
Torresian Imperial Pigeon Ducula spilorrhoa : At least 50 were seen flying over the
forest near Kikori, 10 were seen near Wasu, Huon Peninsula and singles were
seen flying over Hisiu mangroves and Lea Lea.
Papuan Mountain Pigeon Gymnophaps albertisii : At least 60 were seen daily between
Gatop village and Satop Lookout, Huon Peninsula and at least 20 were noted
along the Boystown and Gre-Drimgas roads near Kiunga and at Varirata
National Park with smaller numbers of overflying birds noted elsewhere.
CACATUIDAE
Palm Cockatoo Probosciger aterrimus : Up to 4 were seen daily along the Pipeline
road, Kikori, 2 were seen along the Elevala River and a single bird was noted
along the Gre-Drimgas road near Kiunga.
Sulphur-crested Cockatoo Cacatua galerita : At least 15 were seen at Varirata
National Park and along the Elevala River, up to 20 were seen daily along the
Pipeline road, Kikori and a singleton was noted near Jackson's Airport, Port
Moresby.
PSITTACIDAE
Greater Streaked Lory Chalcopsitta scintillata : Much fewer in number than on
previous visists, only 4 to 6 were seen daily along the Pipeline road, Kikori,
15 along the Boystown road, Kiunga, at least 20 along the Elevala River and
20 at Dablin creek, Tabubil.
Dusky Lory Pseudeos fuscata : At least 300 were seen at an evening roost gathering in
the grounds of the Lae International Hotel and up to 30 were seen daily flying
over Gatop village, Huon Peninsula..
Rainbow Lorikeet Trichoglossus haematodus : Small flocks totalling at least 20 of this
noisy species were seen at Varirata National Park, 2 to 4 were seen daily
along the Pipeline road, Kikori and at least 20 were seen daily near Gatop
village, Huon peninsula..
Goldie's Lorikeet Psitteuteles goldei : Up to 100 were seen each evening at Myola
where small numbers roosted in Pandanus trees near the camp. 3 were seen at
Kumul Lodge and 2 were noted over Tari Gap.
Black-capped Lory Lorius lory : Up to 2 were seen in Varirata National Park, 8 along
the Pipeline road, Kikori, 15 along the Elevala River, a singleton at K17, 6
along the Boystown and Gre-Drimgas roads, Kiunga and 5 near
Gatop village, Huon Peninsula.
Red-flanked Lorikeet Charmosyna placentis : Remarkably scarce this visit, with only
6 along the Boystown road and 4 along the Gre-Drimgas road near Kiunga
being our only sightings.
Little Red Lorikeet Charmosyna pulchella : 6 were seen on two occasions feeding in
flowering shrubs near Satop Lookout, Huon Peninsula.
Papuan Lorikeet Charmosyna papou : Up to 6, mostly dark-phase birds, were seen
daily around Kumul Lodge and up to 10 red-phase were seen between the
bailey bridge and Tari Gap. At least 10 were seen daily near Satop Lookout,
Huon Peninsula.
Plum-faced Lorikeet Oreopsittacus arfaki : Up to 30 were seen daily at Kumul Lodge,
often giving great close views, similarly up to 12 of these endearing creatures
were seen at Tari Gap.
Yellow-billed Lorikeet Neopsittacus musschenbroekii : At least 10 were seen feeding
in Casuarina trees at Alukambe village in the Tari Valley and 6 were seen
near the bailey bridge below Tari Gap.
Orange-billed Lorikeet Neopsittacus pullicauda : 2 were seen daily at Kumul Lodge,
2 were seen at Tari Gap and 3 noted by the Ambua Lodge entrance gate.
Vulturine Parrot Psittatrichas fulgidus : Up to 10 of these magnificent parrots were
seen daily along the Pipeline road, Kikori, 6 were seen along the Elevala
River and a single bird was present at Satop Lookout, Huon Peninsula.
Buff-faced Pygmy-Parrot Micropsitta pusio : 6 were seen, mostly in flight around
Gare's Lookout, Varirata National Park and a singleton gave us great views
there three weeks later
Yellow-capped Pygmy-Parrot Micropsitta keiensis : 2 flyovers were seen along the
Boystown road near Kiunga.
Red-breasted Pygmy-Parrot Micropsitta bruijnii : Up to 10 flyovers were seen at
Dablin creek and a family party of a male, female and two juveniles gave us
marvellous views in a garden at Pigonda village, Tari valley.
Orange-breasted Fig-Parrot Cyclopsitta gulielmiterti : Up to 12 were seen most days
along the Pipeline road, Kikori, 3 along the Boystown road near Kiunga and 5
were seen daily at Dablin creek, Tabubil.
Double-eyed Fig-Parrot Cyclopsitta diophthalma: 2 were seen along the Pipeline
road, Kikori, 2 along the Boystown and 4 along the Gre-Drimgas roads near
Kiunga and a singleton was seen near Gatop village, Huon Peninsula.
Large Fig-Parrot Psittaculirostris desmarestii : 6 were seen along the Pipeline road,
Kikori.
Edwards' Fig-Parrot Psittaculirostris edwardsii : A party of 4 was seen close to Wasu
village, Huon Peninsula. (IB only)
Brehm's Tiger-Parrot
Psittacella brehmii : Up to 3 birds, 2 males and a female, gave
us exceptional views as they fed on passion fruits in the grounds of Kumul
Lodge, on several occasions. A male was also seen along Max's trail off the
Wabag/Wapenamanda road and another was also seen at Tari Gap; these little
parrots are absolutely superb avian beings.
Painted Tiger-Parrot Psittacella picta : A male, although reluctant to appear at first,
eventually gave us good views at Tari Gap .
Madarasz's Tiger-Parrot Psittacella madaraszi : A male was seen feeding high up in a
fruiting tree at Myola, although he was a pain in the neck, everyone got good
views eventually.
Red-cheeked Parrot Geoffroyus geoffroyi : At least 15 were seen daily in Varirata
National Park, 8 at the Pacific Adventist University and 4 along the Pipeline
road, Kikori. At least 10 were seen at K17 and 14 along the Boystown and
Gre-Drimgas roads, Kiunga.
Blue-collared Parrot Geoffroyus simplex : (H) A small flock was heard flying over
Dablin creek, Tabubil.
Eclectus Parrot Eclectus roratus : Up to 4 were seen daily along the Pipeline road,
Kikori, at least 12 were seen along the Elevala River and smaller numbers
were noted along the Boystown and Gre-Drimgas roads and at K17 near
Kiunga. Singletons were noted at Varirata National Park and near Wasu
village, Huon Peninsula.
Papuan King Parrot Alisterus chloropterus : A really good showing this trip with 2
near Gare's Lookout, Varirata National Park and 2 each at Pigonda and
Alukambe villages, Tari valley including a single bird near Alukambe that
posed for photographs in a fruiting tree.
Papuan Hanging Parrot Loriculus aurantiifrons : Two separate groups of 4 gave us
great 'scope views along the Pipeline road, Kikori and a further 3 were seen
at Dablin creek, Tabubil.
CUCULIDAE
Brush Cuckoo Cacomantis variolosus : Heard much more often than seen in the
lowlands but 2 seen at Hisiu mangroves and 3 seen along the Boystown road
near Kiunga were significant counts. Single birds were also noted at Tapuka
quarry near Mt Hagen and near Gatop village, Huon Peninsula.
Chestnut-breasted Cuckoo Cacomantis castaneiventris : A single bird was seen along
the Pipeline road, Kikori and 2 were seen near Satop Lookout, Huon
Peninsula. Calling birds were also heard daily at Dablin creek, Tabubil.
Fan-tailed Cuckoo Cacomantis flabelliformis : A single bird was seen at Pigonda
village, Tari valley and others were heard at Kumul Lodge.
Long-billed Cuckoo Rhamphomantis megarhynchus : A pair was seen along the
Boystown road near Kiunga.
Little Bronze-Cuckoo Chrysococcyx minutillus : Single birds were seen at Hisiu
mangroves and along the Pipeline road, Kikori.
Rufous-throated Bronze-Cuckoo Chrysococcyx ruficollis : Single birds were seen by
the Wabag road, at Kumul Lodge and from the bailey bridge below Tari Gap.
White-eared Bronze-Cuckoo
Chrysococcyx meyerii : Single birds were seen at Ok
Menga and twice at Dablin creek, Tabubil.
White-crowned Koel Caliechthrus leucolophus :Single birds were seen on two
occasions along the Pipeline road, Kikori and others were heard at Varirata
National Park.
Australian Koel Eudynamys cyanocephala : 3 were seen along the Elevala River and
along the Pipeline road near Kikori. A female was seen along the Boystown
road and a male noted along the Gre-Drimgas road near Kiunga.
Common Koel Eudaynamis scolopacea : A single bird was seen at Varirata National
Park on our last day.
Channel-billed Cuckoo Scythrops novaehollandiae : 2 were seen on two separate
occasions along the Pipeline road, Kikori and 8 were seen over the Lae
International Hotel one evening.
Greater Black Coucal Centropus menbeki : 3 were seen along the Elevala River and
calling birds were also noted along the Pipeline road, Kikori and along the
Gre-Drimgas road near Kiunga.
Lesser Black Coucal Centropus bernsteini : A single bird was seen along the Gre-
Drimgas road near Kiunga.
Pheasant Coucal Centropus phasianus : 10 were seen along the Hiritano Highway and
single birds were seen at K17, Kiunga, near Varirata National Park, at the
Kokoda Trail Monument and near Jackson's Airport, Port Moresby. The
pidgin name for this bird is "Lapun Meri" meaning "Old Woman".
TYTONIDAE
Greater Sooty Owl Tyto tenebricosa : A single bird was seen at dusk flying over the
grasslands at Myola. It eventually perched on a stump and in the fading light
was aptly described as 'a distant black blob'. It or another was heard calling
distantly on our last night there. Far better views of one of the resident pair
were obtained at their tree-hole nest at Alukambe village in the Tari valley.
On the Huon Peninsula one was disturbed from a densely foliaged tree near
Satop Lookout but it could not be relocated.
Papuan Hawk-Owl (Boobook) Ninox theomacha : Heard calling near Kiunga and at
Ambua Lodge where one was seen briefly one evening. The following day 2
were seen in daylight at a roost site in Pigonda village
AEGOTHELIDAE
Feline Owlet-nightjar Aegotheles insignis : (H) One was heard calling in response to a
tape at Myola but unfortunately the anticipated roost site there drew a blank.
Barred Owlet-nightjar Aegotheles bennetti : We had brilliant views of one at its
daytime roost along the Gare's Lookout trail, Varirata National Park.
Arguably one of the most endearing (or weird, depending on your appreciation
of nocturnals) birds of the trip.
Mountain Owlet-nightjar Aegotheles albertisi : One was discovered in its daytime
roost in a tree hole at Myola and so we had brilliant views of this amazing
bird, more or less on demand. Another was seen by some of us, spotlighted
through a chalet window at Kumul Lodge where calling birds were also heard
most nights.
PODARGIDAE
Papuan Frogmouth Podargus papuensis : 2 were seen at roost at the Pacific Adventist
University and another was seen at dusk along the Elevala River.
CAPRIMULGIDAE
White-throated Nightjar Eurostopodus mystacalis : A single bird was spotlighted at
dusk in bankside vegetation along the Fly River.
Papuan Nightjar Eurostopodus papuensis : 2 were seen shortly after 1900hrs along the
Gre-Drimgas road near Kiunga, giving excellent views in the spotlight.
Archbold's (Mountain) Nightjar Eurostopodus archboldi : 2 were spotlighted shortly
after 1900hrs in the higher quarry near the bailey bridge below Tari Gap.
Large-tailed Nightjar Caprimulgus macrurus : Single birds were seen on two
occasions along the entry road to Varirata National Park and 2 were
accidentally flushed from their daytime roost along the Gare's Lookout trail.
APODIDAE
Mountain Swiftlet Collocalia hirundinacea : At least 40 were seen daily over the
grasslands at Myola, up to 5 were seen over the Kumul Lodge area and 2 to
15 were seen daily over the grasslands beyond Tari Gap. The 50 to 100 brown
swiftlets which were seen daily between Satop village and the 1800 metre
elevation Lookout, Huon Peninsula were probably this species
Glossy Swiftlet Collocalia esculenta : Common in most of the locations visited with 30
seen at Varirata National Park, up to 40 seen daily along the Pipeline road,
Kikori, up to 30 at Kumul Lodge and up to 20 in the Ambua Lodge -Tari Gap
area.
Uniform Swiftlet Collocalia vanikorensis : This swiftlet was seen throughout the
lowland and foothill areas visited, with up to 40 daily along the Pipeline road,
Kikori, over 20 seen daily on the Huon Peninsula and smaller numbers noted
in other locations.
Papuan Needletail Mearnsia novaeguineae : Up to 30 were seen daily along the
Pipeline road, Kikori and similar numbers were noted in the Kiunga area and
along the Elevala River.
HEMIPROCNIDAE
Moustached Treeswift Hemiprocne mystacea : Up to 6 were seen daily along the
Pipeline road, Kikori, a single bird was seen at K17, 2 were seen at dusk along
the Gre-Drimgas road near Kiunga, 10 along the Elevala River and 4 were
seen near Tabubil.
ALCEDINIDAE
Azure Kingfisher Alcedo azurea : 2 were seen along the Elevala River and single birds
were noted near the ford on the entrance road to Varirata National Park and
along the Varirata Lookout (Stream) trail.
Little Kingfisher Alcedo pusilla : 2 were seen at Hisiu mangroves.
Variable (Dwarf) Kingfisher Ceyx lepidus : A pair gave us excellent views along the
Varirata Lookout (Stream) trail.
Rufous-bellied Kookaburra Dacelo gaudichaud : Up to 6 of these impressive birds
were seen along the Elevala River and single birds were noted daily along the
Pipeline road, Kikori and also along the Boystown road near Kiunga. Others
were heard daily in Varirata National Park.
Blue-winged Kookaburra Dacelo leachii : 1 or 2 were seen daily near Varirata
NationaL Park, 3 were seen near Lea Lea and a single bird was noted near
Hisiu mangroves..
Forest Kingfisher Halcyon macleayii : Up to 10 were seen daily near Kopi camp,
Kikori, 5 at Kikori airstrip and 2 were seen twice near the Kokoda Trail
Monument, Sogeri.
Collared Kingfisher Halcyon chloris : 3 eventually gave us good views at Hisiu
mangroves.
Sacred Kingfisher Halcyon sancta : 2 were seen at the Pacific Adventist University, 2
were seen at Varirata National Park, 5 along the Hiritano Highway and 1 or
2 at Kopi camp, Kikori. Strangely, only 4 were counted along the Elevala
River where over 20 were seen this time last year. 2 were seen at Ok Menga
and singletons were noted in Tabubil town and at the airport
Hook-billed Kingfisher Melidora macrorrhina : Gavin saw 2 of these spectacular
birds by a security light at Delta Lodge, Kikori. The best the rest of us could
manage was brief underside views of this often difficult bird. Calling birds
were also noted near Kopi camp, Kikori, along the Gre-Drimgas road near
Kiunga and along the Elevala River.
Yellow-billed Kingfisher Halcyon torotoro : Single birds gave us great views at
Varirata National Park on two occasions and another performed really well at
Hisiu mangroves in response to it's own call played back. Calling birds were
also noted along the Pipeline road, Kikori and at Dablin creek, Tabubil.
Mountain Kingfisher Halcyon megarhyncha : One eventually gave us wonderful close
views near Satop Lookout, Huon Peninsula. Others were heard calling there
and also near Ambua Lodge.
Lesser Paradise-Kingfisher Tanysiptera hydrocharis : (H) As usual, this rare species
proved difficult; at least 2 were heard along the Elevala River but neither
showed.
Common Paradise-Kingfisher Tanysiptera galatea : At least 2 were seen along the
Elevala River.
Brown-headed Paradise-Kingfisher Tanysiptera danae : 2 birds were seen along
the Tree-house trail and 2 including a juvenile were noted along the Circuit
track at Varirata National Park.
MEROPIDAE
Blue-tailed Bee-eater Merops philippinus : 3 were seen in flight near Wasu village,
Huon Peninsula.
Rainbow Bee-eater Merops ornatus : At least 10 were seen at the Pacific Adventist
University, at least 20 along the Hiritano Highway, 1 or 2 daily along the
Pipeline road, Kikori, 4 at Varirata National Park, a singleton at Pigonda
village, Tari valley and 6 were seen at Gatop village, Huon Peninsula.
Strangely, none were seen along the Elevala River.
CORACIIDAE
Dollarbird Eurystomus orientalis : Seen at most of the lowland and foothill sites visited
with at least 50 along the Elevala River and 1 to 3 seen elsewhere.
BUCEROTIDAE
Blyth's Hornbill Rhyticeros plicatus : Up to 20 were seen daily along the Pipeline road,
Kikori and similar numbers were noted along the Elevala River.
PITTIDAE
Hooded Pitta Pitta sordida : This species proved to be difficult but eventually one
gave us excellent views along the Scarp trail in Varirata National Park. It
appeared shortly after we had a close encounter with a very large taipan. The
bird was totally silent although we had difficulty being so as the adrenalin was
running rather high for some of us! Heard also along the Gre-Drimgas road
near Kiunga and near Ekame Lodge.
Red-bellied (Blue-breasted) Pitta Pitta erythrogaster : One gave us great 'scope
views near Ekame Lodge as it perched for several minutes in a low bush.
ALAUDIDAE
Australasian (Singing) Bushlark Mirafra javanica : Single birds were seen at Lea Lea
and at Nadzab (Lae) Airport.
HIRUNDINIDAE
Pacific Swallow Hirundo tahitica : Small numbers were seen at all the lowland and
mid-montane localities we visited with at least 10 noted at the Pacific
Adventist University and at least 20 along the Hiritano Highway and at Mt
Hagen Airport. 2 were seen daily at Myola which was an interesting record.
MOTACILLIDAE
Australian Pipit Anthus australis : 2 were seen at Mt Hagen Airport and 4 were noted
at Mendi Airport.
CAMPEPHAGIDAE
Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike Coracina novaehollandiae : At least 30 were seen daily at
Varirata National Park, at least 90 at Kopi camp, Kikori and at least 20 at the
Pacific Adventist University with smaller numbers noted in the other lowland
areas visited.
Stout-billed Cuckoo-shrike Coracina caeruleogrisea : 4 were seen along the Gare's
Lookout trail and 4 along the Scarp trail, Varirata National Park, a pair were
seen daily at Dablin creek, Tabubil and at Alukambe village in the Tari
valley. 3 were also seen near Satop village, Huon Peninsula.
Yellow-eyed Cuckoo-shrike Coracina lineata : 2 were seen on two occasions along
the Gare's Lookout trail, Varirata National Park and 2 were seen near Gatop
village, Huon Peninsula.
Boyer's Cuckoo-shrike Coracina boyeri : Up to 10 were seen daily along the Pipeline
road, Kikori, and 3 were seen regularly near the main picnic area, Varirata
National Park.
White-bellied Cuckoo-shrike Coracina papuensis : Surprisingly scarce this visit with
up to 4 seen on two occasions between Wasu and Gatop villages, Huon
Peninsula being our only sightings.
Hooded Cuckoo-shrike Coracina longicauda : 3 were seen at Myola and up to 3 were
seen on two occasions along the Waterfall trail, Ambua Lodge..
Common Cicadabird Coracina tenuirostris : Single birds were seen at Alukambe and
Pigonda villages in the Tari valley and 2 were seen on two occasions near
Gatop village, Huon Peninsula..
Black-shouldered Cuckoo-shrike Coracina morio : 1 or 2 were seen daily at Dablin
creek, Tabubil.
Grey-headed Cuckoo-shrike Coracina schisticeps : Up to 12 were seen daily along
the Pipeline road, Kikori, 4 at K17 near Kiunga, up to 6 along the Elevala
River and 2 were noted at Dablin creek, Tabubil..
New Guinea (Black) Cuckoo-shrike Coracina melas (melaena) : A pair were seen
along the Gare's Lookout trail, Varirata National Park and a male was noted
along the Pipeline road, Kikori.
Black-bellied Cuckoo-shrike Coracina montana : 6 were seen along Max's trail near
Kumul Lodge and a singleton was seen from Satop Lookout, Huon Peninsula.
Golden Cuckoo-shrike Campochaera sloetii : Up to 4 were seen daily along the
Pipeline road, Kikori, 6 were seen along the Elevala River and a pair were
noted at Dablin creek, Tabubil.
White-winged Triller Lalage suerii : 10 were seen in the savanna near Aroa Service
Station along the Hiritano highway.
Varied Triller Lalage leucomela : Surprisingly scarce, 1 or 2 were seen along the
Pipeline road, Kikori, singles at K17 and along the Boystown road, Kiunga, 4
at Dablin creek, Tabubil and 2 were noted at Varirata National Park.
TURDIDAE
Island Thrush Turdus poliocephalus : A singleton was seen at Myola, up to 4
daily around Kumul Lodge and 3 were seen near Tari Gap.
Lesser New Guinea Thrush (Lesser Ground-Robin) Amalocichla incerta : Single
birds were seen at Myola and near Kumul Lodge.
CISTICOLIDAE
Golden-headed Cisticola Cisticola exilis : 2 were seen at Hisiu mangroves and 12 were
noted near Lea Lea and at Nadzab (Lae) Airport.
SYLVIIDAE
Island Leaf-Warbler Phylloscopus poliocephalus : 2 were seen at Myola, 1 at Tapuka
quarry, 4 daily near Satop Lookout, Huon Peninsula and another singleton at
Pigonda village in the Tari valley.
Tawny Grassbird Megalurus timoriensis : Up to 10 were seen daily in the grasslands at
Myola, 2 in the grasslands opposite Kumul Lodge and at least 10 near Tari
Gap.
MUSCICAPIDAE
Pied Chat Saxicola caprata : Common in grasslands at all altitudes visited with up to 6
seen daily along the road near Kumul Lodge and around Tari Gap and 2 or 3
seen at Port Moresby, Tari, Mendi and Mt Hagen Airports.
RHIPIDURIDAE
Northern Fantail Rhipidura rufiventris : 2 were seen at Ok Menga, Tabubil, 4 at
Dablin creek, Tabubil and singletons noted at Tapuka quarry and Alukambe
village, Tari valley.
Willie Wagtail Rhipidura leucophrys : Common in all lowland and mid-montane areas
with maxima of at least 20 along the Hiritano highway and at least 30 along
the Elevala River.
Friendly Fantail Rhipidura albolimbata : Up to 10 were seen daily at Myola, 7 at
Kumul Lodge, up to 5 were seen around Tari Gap and up to 4 were seen
around Satop Lookout, Huon Peninsula..
Sooty Thicket-Fantail Rhipidura threnothorax : A single bird was seen along the
Boundary track, Varirata National Park (IB only).
Black Thicket-Fantail Rhipidura maculipectus : Single birds were seen on two
occasions along the Pipeline road, Kikori.
White-bellied Thicket-Fantail Rhipidura leucothorax : (H) Heard only at K17, along
the Gre-Drimgas road and along the Elevala River. This fantail seems to be
even more secretive than its sibling species.
Black Fantail Rhipidura atra : Up to 3 were seen at Myola, 2 at Dablin creek, Tabubil
and 3 at Kumul Lodge, 4 near Ambua Lodge and single females were noted
twice near Satop Lookout, Huon Peninsula.
Chestnut-bellied Fantail Rhipidura hyperythra : Up to 4 were seen daily in Varirata
National Park.
Dimorphic Fantail Rhipidura brachyrhyncha : Up to 4 were seen at Myola, 3 at
Kumul Lodge and 1 or 2 daily between Benson's trail and Tari Gap.
MYIAGRIDAE
Black Monarch Monarcha axillaris : Single birds were seen at Dablin creek, Tabubil
and along the Hydro trail, Ambua Lodge.
Black-faced Monarch Monarcha melanopsis : Single birds were seen along the Tree-
house and Gare's Lookout trails, Varirata National Park.
Black-winged Monarch Monarcha frater : 2 were seen along the Gare's Lookout trail,
Varirata National Park, 2 at Dablin creek, Tabubil and a singleton near Gatop
village, Huon Peninsula.
Spot-winged Monarch Monarcha guttula : Up to 3 were seen at Varirata National
Park and singletons were noted on two occasions along the Pipeline road,
Kikori.
Hooded Monarch Monarchamanadensis : 2 were seen near Ekame Lodge.
Golden Monarch Monarcha chrysomela : Up to 2 were seen daily at Varirata National
Park and a singleton noted along the Elevala River.
Frilled Monarch Arses telescopthalamus : Up to 4 were seen daily at Varirata National
Park and singletons were noted along the Pipeline road, Kikori, along the
Gre-Drimgas road and at K17 near Kiunga.
Leaden Flycatcher Myiagra rubecula : 4 were seen at Hisiu mangroves.
Broad-billed Flycatcher Myiagra ruficollis: 2 were seen at Hisiu mangroves.
Shining Flycatcher Myiagra alecto : At least 20 were seen along the Elevala River.
Yellow-breasted Boatbill Machaerirhynchus flaviventer : A single bird was seen along
the Gare's Lookout trail, Varirata National Park.
Black-breasted Boatbill Machaerirhynchus nigripectus : 1 or 2 were seen daily at
Myola, up to 5 were seen daily near Ambua Lodge and around the Satop
Lookout, Huon Peninsula. A single bird was also seen near Kumul Lodge.
PETROICIDAE
Torrent Flycatcher Monachella muelleriana : 2 were seen at Ok Menga, Tabubil.
Lemon-bellied Flycatcher Microeca flavigaster : 2 were seen by the entrance gate at
Varirata National Park. A pair with a well developed chick in a nest were seen
near Gatop village, Huon Peninsula. These birds had much brighter yellow
underparts than those seen at Varirata National Park.
Yellow-legged Flycatcher Microeca griseoceps : 2 were seen along the Gare's Lookout
trail, Varirata National Park.
Canary Flycatcher Microeca papuana : 2 were seen at Myola, up to 5 seen daily at
Kumul Lodge, up to 3 noted daily in the upper Tari valley and 4 were seen
including a pair at nest, near Satop Lookout, Huon Peninsula. .
White-faced Robin Tregellasia leucops : Up to 4 were seen on two occasions along the
Gare's Lookout trail, Varirata National Park, although for some of us they
remained invisible.
Garnet Robin Eugerygone rubra : A splendid male was seen at Myola and a pair and
another sub-adult male were seen at Tari Gap.
Mangrove Robin Peneoenanthe pulverulenta : 4 were seen at Hisiu mangroves.
Black-sided Robin Poecilodryas hypoleuca : 2 were seen along the Pipeline road,
Kikori and others were heard there and along the Elevala River.
Black-throated Robin Poecilodryas albonotata : Single birds were seen twice near
Kumul Lodge and another noted near Tari Gap.
White-winged Robin Peneothello sigillatus : Excellent close views of up to 8 birds
were obtained daily at Kumul Lodge. One of many species that are
remarkably tame in this area thanks to the local landowners embargo on
hunting in and around the Lodge grounds. Surprisingly, this species was only
seen twice at Tari Gap on this visit.
Blue-grey Robin Peneothello cyanus : Up to 4 were seen in the grounds of Ambua
Lodge and 2 were noted near Satop Lookout, Huon Peninsula.
White-rumped Robin Peneothello bimaculatus : A single bird was seen at Dablin
creek.
Ashy Robin Poecilodryas albispecularis : Up to 3 were seen daily at Myola. One bird
which was mist netted had been ringed by IB on the same trail, as an adult
bird on 26 September 1987 making the bird at least 19 years old. This is
almost certainly a longevity record for the Australasian Robin family.
PACHYCEPHALIDAE
Wattled Shrike-Tit (Ploughbill) Eulacestoma nigropectus : A single male gave us
great views from the roadside near Ambua Lodge and a pair was seen by a
few of us near the Ambua Lodge entrance gate on our last morning there.
Golden-faced (Dwarf) Whistler Pachycare flavogrisea : 2 were seen along the Gare's
Lookout trail, Varirata National Park.
Rufous-naped Whistler Pachycephala rufinucha : 2 were seen at Myola and up to 3
were seen daily at Kumul Lodge where they are remarkably confiding for
such a normally shy species. 2 were seen at Tari Gap and single birds were
noted near Ambua Lodge, at Alukambe village, Tari valley and near Satop
Lookout, Huon Peninsula.
Rusty Whistler Pachycephala hyperythra : A single bird was seen at Dablin creek,
Tabubil.
Brown-backed Whistler Pachycephala modesta : 2 were seen daily at Myola,
singletons were noted around Kumul Lodge, up to 4 were seen between the
bailey bridge and Tari Gap and 1 or 2 seen daily near Satop Lookout, Huon
Peninsula.
Rufous Whistler Pachycephala rufiventris : A single bird was seen by some of us at
Hisiu mangroves.
Grey-headed (Grey) Whistler Pachycephala simplex : 2 were seen each day
at Varirata National Park and a single bird was seen at Dablin creek, Tabubil.
Sclater's Whistler Pachycephala soror : 1 or 2 were seen daily in the grounds of
Ambua Lodge and a female was seen twice at Dablin creek, Tabubil.
Mangrove Golden Whistler Pachycephala melaneura : 2 were seen at Hisiu
mangroves.
Regent Whistler Pachycephala schlegelii : Up to 4 were seen daily at Myola, up to 6
around Kumul Lodge, up to 2 were seen around Tari Gap and up to 3 near
Satop Lookout, Huon Peninsula.
Black-headed Whistler Pachycephala monacha : 6 were seen in Casuarina trees near
Pigonda village, Tari valley and 2 were seen at Gatop village, Huon Peninsula.
Rufous (Little) Shrike-Thrush Colluricincla megarhyncha : Up to 3 birds were seen
daily in Varirata National Park and single birds were noted near Ambua
Lodge and near Pigonda village, Tari valley.
Grey Shrike-Thrush Colluricincla harmonica : 2 were seen at Hisiu mangroves.
Hooded Pitohui Pitohui dichrous : Up to 8 were seen in Varirata National Park each
visit. Varirata is an excellent place to observe the world's first described
poisonous bird. Calling birds were also heard daily near Gatop village, Huon
Peninsula.
White-bellied Pitohui Pitohui incertus : 3 were seen along the Elevala River.
Rusty Pitohui Pitohui ferrugineus : Up to 8 were seen daily along the Gare's Lookout
trail, Varirata National Park and up to 6 were seen along the Pipeline road,
Kikori
Crested Pitohui Pitohui cristatus : (H) Heard each day at Varirata National Park. It is
difficult to believe that a bird can produce such weird sounds.
Variable Pitohui Pitohui kirhocephalus : Up to 3 were seen along the Pipeline road,
Kikori and 1 or 2 were seen daily at Dablin creek, Tabubil.
Black Pitohui
Pitohui nigrescens : A male and female/immature bird were seen along
the Waterfall trail, Ambua Lodge.
NEOSITTIDAE
Black Sittella Neositta miranda : 10 were seen at Myola, 8 were seen in the grounds
of Kumul Lodge and 6 were seen near the bailey bridge below Tari Gap.
Papuan Sittella Neositta papuensis : 8 were seen along the Waterfall trail, Ambua
Lodge.
CLIMACTERIDAE
Papuan Treecreeper Cormobates placens : A single bird was seen in a garden near the
entrance gate to Ambua Lodge.
CINCLOSOMATIDAE
Blue Jewel-babbler Ptilorrhoa caerulescens : 2 separate sightings of two birds were
obtained along the Pipeline road, Kikori and others were heard along the
Gre-Drimgas road, Kiunga and along the Elevala River.
Chestnut-backed Jewel-babbler Ptilorrhoa castanonotus : Single birds were seen
by some of us along the Gare's Lookout trail and Boundary track,Varirata
National Park and at Dablin creek, Tabubil.
Spotted Jewel-babbler Ptilorrhoa leucosticta : Single birds were seen at Myola on two
occasions.
ORTHONYCHIDAE
Logrunner Orthonyx temminckii : A pair was seen by most of us at Myola.
Lesser Melampitta Melampitta lugubris : Single birds were seen twice at Myola and
another was seen near Satop Lookout, Huon Peninsula, although few of us got
good views of these secretive creatures.
Blue-capped Ifrita Ifrita kowaldi : Great views of this strange and poisonous species
were obtained at Kumul Lodge where up to 5 were seen daily. At least 3 were
seen at Tari Gap and near Satop Lookout, Huon Peninsula and a singleton
was noted at Myola.
MALURIDAE
Orange-crowned Fairywren Clytomyias insignis : 2 were seen in the grounds of
Kumul Lodge and 3 were seen along Benson's trail below Tari Gap.
Wallace's Fairywren Sipodotus wallacii : Up to 3 were seen each visit to Dablin creek,
Tabubil.
White-shouldered Fairywren Malurus alboscapulatus : 3 were seen near the Kokoda
Trail Monument, Sogeri, 3 at Dablin creek, Tabubil, 2 at Tapuka quarry; up to
8 were seen in the Tari Valley and 2 noted at Gatop village, Huon Peninsula.
Emperor Fairywren Malurus cyanocephalus : 3 were seen along the Pipeline road,
Kikori, 2 along the Elevala River and 2 were seen along the Boundary track,
Varirata National Park.
ACANTHIZIDAE
Rusty Mouse-Warbler Crateroscelis murina : Heard far more often than seen but
single birds were seen along the Boundary, Scarp and Gare's Lookout trails,
Varirata National Park. Single birds were also seen twice at Dablin creek,
Tabubil.
Mountain Mouse-Warbler Crateroscelis robusta : 1 or 2 birds were seen daily at
Myola and single birds were seen at Kumul Lodge and at Tari Gap
Pale-billed Scrub-wren Sericornis spilodera : 3 and later 2 birds were seen along the
Gare's Lookout trail, Varirata National Park on two separate occasions.
Large Scrub-wren Sericornis nouhuysi : Up to 10 were seen daily at Myola, up to 3
were seen daily at Kumul Lodge and up to 4 noted daily along the Waterfall
trail, Ambua Lodge.
Buff-faced Scrub-wren Sericornis perspicillatus : 3 were seen at Myola, up to 6 daily
around Kumul Lodge and up to 15 were seen along the Waterfall trail, Ambua
Lodge with smaller numbers noted between there and Tari Gap.
Papuan Scrub-wren Sericornis papuensis : Single birds were mist netted twice at
Myola and 4 were seen at Tari Gap and near Satop Lookout, Huon Peninsula.
Grey Gerygone Gerygone cinerea : At least 20 were seen daily at Myola and 2 were
noted in the grounds of Kumul Lodge.
Green-backed Gerygone Gerygone chloronotus : Single birds were seen twice at
Varirata National Park, and another noted near Gatop village, Huon Peninsula.
Singing birds were heard along the Pipeline road, Kikori, along the Boystown
road near Kiunga and at Dablin creek, Tabubil.
Fairy Gerygone Gerygone palpebrosa : At least 3 were seen along the Gare's Lookout
trail, Varirata National Park.
Yellow-bellied Gerygone Gerygone chrysogaster : Up to 4 were seen along the
Pipeline road, Kikori and a singleton was noted at K17 near Kiunga.
Large-billed Gerygone Gerygone magnirostris : 6 were seen at Hisiu mangroves and
a single bird was heard calling along the Elevala River.
Mangrove Gerygone Gerygone levigaster : 2 were seen at Hisiu mangroves.
Brown-breasted Gerygone Gerygone ruficollis : Up to 6 were seen daily at Myola,
up to 4 were seen daily at Kumul Lodge, at least 10 were seen in the Tari
valley and 2 were noted near Satop Lookout, Huon Peninsula.
White-throated Gerygone Gerygone olivacea : A single bird was seen in the savanna
near Aroa Service Station. Another was heard near the Kokoda Trail
Monument.
Northern Scrub-Robin Drymodes superciliaris : A single bird was seen by some of us
along the Boundary track, Varirata National Park.
NECTARINIIDAE
Black Sunbird Leptocoma sericea : This excellent sunbird was seen at most lowland
localities visited with up to 4 seen along the Pipeline road, Kikori, 4 along
both the Boystown and Gre-Drimgas roads, Kiunga and 4 also along the
Elevala River. 6 between Wasu and Gatop villages was the maximum daily
total.
Olive-backed (Yellow-bellied) Sunbird
Cinnyris jugularis : At least 4 were seen at
Hisiu mangroves and Lea Lea, 2 were seen near Kopi camp, Kikori and up to
4 were noted daily near Gatop village, Huon Peninsula.
MELANOCHARITIDAE
Obscure Berrypecker Melanocharis arfakiana : A single bird was seen each day at
Dablin creek, Tabubil.
Lemon-breasted (Mid-mountain) Berrypecker Melanocharis longicauda : A male
was seen at Myola and female/immature birds were seen at Dablin creek,
Tabubil and along the Waterfall trail, Ambua Lodge.
Black Berrypecker Melanocharis nigra : Surprisingly scarce, 3 seen at Varirata
National Park with another 2 on our last day were our only sightings of this
normally more common species.