Wilson’s Bird of Paradise Cicinnurus respublica

Other participants: Peter Los, Hemme Batjes, Jan Hein van Steenis, Chris Quispel,  Graham Tebb, Hans Westerlaken and Wiel Poelmans.

INTRODUCTION

Ever since I visited Papua New Guinea in 2008 I intended to visit the western, Indonesian part of New Guinea. I almost made the trip in the mid nineties of the last century but because of civil turmoil I had to cancel that trip. It took me more than a year to organise this one and it turned out to be a rather difficult trip to organise. First of all it had to fit into my summer holidays and I had to get a group together, which would also be able to travel during that period. To keep the cost of the trip manageable I needed to get a group of 6 to 8 people together. Frankly a group of 8 birders on certain narrow, steep trails is inadvisable and a group of 4 to 5 is doubtless more practical.

To bird West Papua there are several options. You can join one of the big tour companies like BirdQuest if you are willing to pay the price, use one of the local organisations like Papua Expeditions or Papua Bird Club, or organise the trip completely by yourself and only use  the local guides.

We decided to use Papua Expeditions (www.PapuaExpeditions.com) for the first 3 weeks for their so-called “Easy Papua” itinerary, which include all the major sites in West Papua. The last week we intended to bird on our own on Biak and Numfor.

Because of problems Papua Expeditions encountered in the Snow Mountains, they decided to skip this part of the trip. So at the last moment we contacted Jonas Wenda in Wamena and luckily he was able to step in and organise this for us. We had a great and smoothly organised trip to the Snow Mountains.

Our aim was to observe as many West Papuan endemics as possible and some additional species missed in PNG.

It was a fairly successful trip. We saw some great birds but the major disappointment was our visit to the Arfaks where we really dipped some expected and most wanted species.

It was also one of the more physically challenging trips. You often have to camp in remote areas, in primitive conditions, in hot and humid weather conditions and bird along muddy and sometimes steep trails.

VISA

When you enter Indonesia they issue a 30-day visa on arrival.(25$ US) If you stay longer you have to extend your visa or apply for it at the Indonesian embassy at home before you leave. As we were staying for 31 days and had not extended our visa, we were fined some 15$ when leaving the country at Jakarta airport.

GETTING THERE – FLIGHT

Some of us (like myself) flew  Garuda from Amsterdam to Jakarta with a stop at Dubai and back from Biak to Jakarta and on to Amsterdam with a stop at Dubai. For these flights I paid a little more than 1200 €.

I also paid for my flight from Jakarta to Sorong (stop at Makassar) 260$ and for the flight Jayapura to Biak 75$.

GETTING AROUND

All other domestic flights were included in the price we paid Papua Expeditions for the package.

Sorong – Manokwari, Manokwari – Jayapura, Jayapura – Wamena and Wamena – Jayapura.

Transport on the ground was either with minibuses or 4-wheel drive vehicles where necessary.

We used a large speedboat to travel to Waigeo from Sorong.

MONEY

The currency used in Indonesia is the Rupiah.

During our stay the exchange rate was:   100.000 IDR = 8 Euro

                                                        100.000 IDR = 11 Dollar

I had some cash dollars with me and in Jakarta and on Biak it was easy to get money from an ATM.

We did not need much money as we paid for the whole trip before we left.

ACCOMMODATIONS – FOOD & DRINKS

When staying in towns we had nice, middle class hotels, with the exception of our hotel in Sentani which was a bit rundown.

We camped on Waigeo, in the Arfaks, the Northern Lowlands and Snow Mountains.

On Waigeo we slept on the ground under tarpaulins, in the Northern Lowlands on a kind of small table under tarpaulins, in the Arfaks in a wooden shed and in the Snow Mountains in tents.

The washing and toilet facilities were primitive but okay on Waigeo and the Snow Mountains and very primitive or even absent in the Arfaks and the Northern Lowlands.

Like Wijaya of Papua Expeditions provided us with plenty and excellent food, even under the most primitive conditions. There was always a sufficient supply of water and several times a day we were served coffee and tea.

LANGUAGE

When travelling in West Papua a basic knowledge of Bahasa Indonesia would be very handy as most people do not speak English. As Iwein Mauro was our guide we had no problems in this respect. On Biak we were lucky that Mr. Budy, the manager of Aerotel Papua, spoke English very well and was a great help in organising things on Biak. Jonas Wenda spoke only some basic English but sufficient to communicate with.

HEALTH & SAFETY

During our stay I was never sick but some of us suffered from minor stomach problems during a few days.

Because of the safety problems Papua Expeditions encountered in the month before our visit, 2 people of our group decided to leave the Snow Mountains part out of their program. The other 6, including me, did the trip with Jonas and had no problems.

I also have to admit that the boat crossings between Sorong and Waigeo and between Biak and Numfor are not for the fainthearted either!

WEATHER

As usual the weather was rather unpredictable. Most days we had a few hours of rain and we really had heavy downpours in the Arfaks, in the Northern Lowlands, where one night our campsite was completely flooded and once in the Snow Mountains. But it never rained the whole day.

In the lowland rainforest areas it was also very hot and humid.

In the Snow Mountains we camped at an altitude of 3300 m and at night the temperatures dropped to just above zero.

BIRDING

Birding in West Papua is generally hard work. Bird densities are low and we hardly encountered any flocks.

But still we saw some great birds and as I said before only the Arfaks were disappointing.

Highlights were many: we saw 4 species of Paradise Kingfisher including the rarely seen Red-breasted Paradise Kingfisher in the lowlands near Sorong and the endemic Numfor Paradise Kingfisher on Numfor.

Some of us saw Bruijn’s Brush Turkey on Waigeo and according to Iwein only a handful of birders have seen this species up to now. We also saw 2 other species of Brush Turkey. But take a look at our checklist and judge for yourself.

EQUIPMENT

Most important to bring along is a good pair of rubber boots. This is more or less essential to bird this region as I used them most days. As we spent quite some time camping on this trip a good mattress to sleep on is also advisable.

Bring raingear, a small umbrella and also sufficient warm clothes for your stay in the Snow Mountains.

We had 2 scopes with us and these were very useful in open areas.

Some of us had a nice collection of vocalisations on an I-pod but mostly Iwein used his equipment to bring in the skulkers.

REFERENCES

Books

Beehler, Pratt & Zimmerman                  - Birds of New Guinea (1986)

Birdlife International                             - Threatened Birds of the World

Brian J Coates & William S.Peckover        - Birds of New Guinea and the Bismarck Archipelago, a photographic guide

Joseph del Hoyo e. all                           - Handbook of the Birds of the World.

Reports

Birdquest – Mark van Beirs                    - West Papua 2008
Birdquest – Guy Dutson                        - West Papua 2010
Michiel de Boer                                    - West Papua 2008
David van de Schoor                            - West Papua 2009

RETROSPECT

When looking back on this trip I can only conclude that it was a fairly successful trip, with the exception of the Arfaks. You definitively need more time here to find all the specialties of the area. The area in the Arfaks we visited with Papua Expeditions looks very promising, a nice tract of undisturbed forest, but in my opinion, besides more time, you need the expertise of local guides to find the specialties. The weather conditions were also against us in this area.

In general we encountered a lot of rain during this trip which made birding in the Arfaks and the Nimbokrang area (the trails in the Nimbokrang area were mostly flooded) even more difficult.

If you want to stand a chance of observing Bruijn’s Turkey you have to book a trip with Papua Expeditions as it is the only organisation visiting Waigeo. Another advantage is that the Wilson’s BOP hide is relatively easy to reach from the camp site on Waigeo.

Also birding with them in the lowlands of Sorong is advisable as they know where to find the rare Red-breasted Paradise Kingfisher.

The camp Papua Expeditions use in the Nimbokrang area is nicely situated in the middle of good habitat. Unfortunately the trails were mostly flooded but still we observed quite a nice selection of goodies.

If you have the time, are able to visit just outside the period that most bird tours visit the region, are able to get a team of 4 birders together, it would be best to use the local guides in the Nimbokrang area, Arfaks and Snow Mountains. (details can be found in the reports of Michiel de Boer and David van de Schoor)

DETAILED ITINERARY

Day 1: July 26                      Geldrop – Amsterdam – Jakarta

It was with great anticipation that I started my trip to West Papua. Daniëlle dropped me at the train station of Eindhoven where I took the 7.00 am train to Schiphol Airport. At the airport I met Wiel Poelmans, Peter Los, Hemme Batjes and Hans Westerlaken.

My luggage weighed 24 kilos but as Garuda allowed 30 kgs, this was no problem.

At 11.00 am we left for Jakarta.

Day 2: July 27                      Jakarta – Maure Angke

We arrived at Jakarta (Soekarna Hatta Airport) at 08.40 am, changed some cash dollars and we took 2 taxis to our hotel near the airport. Hotel Sanno, booked on the internet for 27 € for a double room.

After checking in, we birded all afternoon at nearby Maure Angke. It was soaring hot and unfortunately we did not find our target species, the Sunda Coucal. Peter, Hans and Hemme most likely saw this species briefly fly off into the mangroves but we could not relocate the bird. Later that evening Graham Tebb arrived on a Lufthansa flight from Vienna.

We went to bed early as we had to leave for the airport in the middle of the night for our flight to Sorong.

Day 3: July 28                      Jakarta – Sorong – Makbon Road.

At 5.00 am we left Jakarta and we arrived at Sorong around noon. At the airport we were welcomed by Like of Papua Expeditions. After checking in at hotel Meridien in Sorong and after having lunch, Like arranged a minibus for us and gave directions to the driver. On our own we birded along the Makbon road, from 15.30 – 18.30 pm. Best species seen were several Black Lories, a tricky species that can be missed easily.

Other species seen that afternoon include Orange-bellied Fruit-Dove, Pinon Imperial Pigeon, Sulphur-crested Cockatoo, Large Fig-Parrot, Red-cheeked Parrot, Moustached Tree-swift, a Greater Black Coucal crossing the road in front of the car, several Boyer’s Cuckoo-shrikes and a few Yellow-faced Mynas.

In the evening we met Iwein and he told us that we would leave at 4.00 am the next morning for our drive to a nice lowland forest patch where we would arrive around dawn.

Day 4: July 29                      Sorong – Sorong Lowlands (Sale Rd + Makbon Rd)

We left our hotel at 4.00 am and before 6.00 we arrived at a nice patch of lowland forest. We birded extensively in this forest patch, close to the road along some smaller trails.

It took some time but finally we were rewarded with good views of the range-restricted Red-breasted Paradise Kingfisher. Other good species recorded that morning were several Twelve-wired BOP’s and a pair of Moluccan King Parrots. Red-billed Brush-Turkey was only heard. A flock of Papuan Needletails was also seen. In a marshy area along the Sale Rd. we had a flock of 34 Glossy Ibisses and several Buff-banded Rails.

At 11.30, when it was getting very hot, we drove back to Sorong for lunch. Here we met Chris Quispel and Jan Hein van Steenis. In the afternoon we birded with the complete team now again along the Makbon Road. (15.00 – 18.30 pm) No fewer than 20 Black Lories were recorded and Palm Cockatoo, Sulphur-crested Cockatoo and Double-eyed Fig-Parrots were also seen along this road.

Day 5: July 30                      Sorong – Waigeo

In the early morning we drove to the harbour of Sorong to board our speed boat for the trip to Waigeo. At 7.45 am we finally left for what would turn out to be a rather choppy crossing. Birding from the boat for seabirds was very difficult. We identified at least 1 Matsudaira’s Storm Petrel, 2 species of Noddy and Bridled Tern.

At 13.00 am we arrived at Waigeo, where we first had to report to the village head. From the jetty we had great views of an adult and juvenile Brown-headed Crow. Meanwhile we noticed that it rained heavily in the area where we were supposed to land and camp. The boat slowly continued upriver towards the landing area in heavy rain but was unable to reach it. This meant that we had to walk and cross several streams to get to our final destination. But as there was no trail, our porters had to cut one through the jungle, before we could continue. Just before dusk we got to our campsite and we were very lucky that it had stopped raining. Under 2 large tarpaulins we rolled out our mattresses and prepared ourselves for the night. Meanwhile Like prepared us a nice dinner. In the evening we decided which group of 4 persons would go to the Wilson’s BOP hide at first light.

Day 6: July 31                      Waigeo

4 of us, including me, walked (a 30 minute walk) before dawn to the Wilson BOP hide where we stayed from 6.45 – 9.00 am.

The others would bird a bit further on the trail and visit an area where the Red BOP had his display area.

After an hour’s wait suddenly a male Wilson’s BOP appeared on the display court and gave amazing views. Without any doubt the most bizarre bird species I have ever seen.

We were also lucky that a Bare-eyed Rail walked completely at ease within a couple of meters from left to right across the display area. At least 2 Red-necked Crakes were also seen.

So, relieved we left the hide and met the others on the trail. They had good views of several adult Red Bird of Paradise. Together we birded further along the trail where our main target was the rare Western Crowned Pigeon. At one time we flushed three birds and 2 of them flew into a tree where especially one individual gave fantastic views in the scope. We also saw Common Paradise Kingfisher, Rusty Mouse-Warbler, Grey-headed Whistler, Rusty Pitohui, a pair of Golden Monarchs, Olive Flyrobin and unexpectedly an imm. male Wilson’s BOP!

At noon we were back at our camp where we jumped into the nearby river for a swim. This was a routine, repeated every time we got back from a walk into the forest. Not only to fresh up but also to try to get rid of the many chiggers. After one day on the island everyone of us was more or less covered with chigger bites, especially on our legs.

After lunch we watched a nearby fruiting tree which gave us plenty of good species.

Highlight was a White-eared Catbird which gave brief but good views. Also Slender-billed Cuckoo-Dove, Pink-spotted Fruit-Dove, Superb Fruit-Dove, Beautiful Fruit-Dove, Green-backed Honeyeater, Tawny-breasted Honeyeater and Black Berrypecker were observed in the immediate area of this tree.

In the afternoon the first group went to the Red Bird-of-Paradise area while the second group visited the Wilson’s BOP hide. And we all had great views of both species.

A Rufous-bellied Kookabura also obliged with superb and close views.

In the evening we heard and saw Papuan Boobook, heard Large-tailed Nightjar and Marbled Frogmouth.

Very satisfied with the results of our first full day on the island we went to sleep.

Day 7: August 1                  Waigeo

Again 4 people went to the Wilson’s BOP hide and had an amazing display again. At one time there were even 2 males present in front of the hide.

The others, including me, birded the loop trail near our camp. Not much activity but we did see a Red-bellied Pitta on the trail and a single Dusky Megapode in the same area.

Along the river Jan Hein saw a Rufous Night-Heron and a pair of Azure Kingfisher was also seen by some of us.

From an open vantage point along the river we observed species like Blyth’s Hornbill, Sulphur-crested Cockatoo, Pinon Imperial Pigeon, Eclectus Parrot and Black-capped Lory.

Other species seen while walking the trails around our camp include Wompoo Fruit-Dove, Puff-backed Honeyeater, Mimic Honeyeater, Rusty-Mouse Warbler, Yellow-bellied Longbill, Grey-headed Whistler, Little Shrike-Thrush, Spot-winged Monarch, Frilled Monarch, Brown-headed Crow and Black-sided Robin.

Early afternoon was again spent at the fruiting tree. New species seen were Pink-spotted Fruit-Dove, New Guinea Friarbird, Hooded Butcherbird, Glossy-mantled Manucode and White-eared Catbird showing up again from time to time.

I visited again the Wilson’s BOP hide in the afternoon. Again great views but nothing new.

The others had great views of a Hook-billed Kingfisher which upset Chris somewhat as this was one of his most wanted species. Fortunately Jan Hein was able to relocate the species and so Chris finally had this one in the scope and the pocket.

Day 8: August 2                  Waigeo

3 of us opted to bird from the hide again, while the rest of us birded the trails.

At 11.00 am the 3 returned to camp in a very excited state of mind. They had superb views of a Cinnamon Ground Dove in the display area but Jan Hein told us: “It gets worse”!

Just next to the hide Hemme discovered a Bruijn’s Brush Turkey, which slowly walked along the hide. The other two people in the hide, Hans and Jan Hein also saw the bird.

Of course, we all wanted to go to the hide in the afternoon to try for this species and 5 of us cramped together in the hide in the afternoon but not a sniff of course.

When we walked back to the camp Wiel and I surprised a Bruijn’s Brush-Turkey just next to the trail. The bird crashed through the scrub up the hill and unfortunately could not be relocated.

In the evening we spotlighted a cooperative Marbled Frogmouth next to our camp. Great Photos.

Day 9: August 3                  Waigeo

During our final morning we visited again the hide but again failed to find anything new.

Meanwhile our crew had taken all our gear to the waiting boat and at 9.00 am we also walked to the boat and left at 10.00 am.

After a short visit again to the village head we headed for the small island of Pulau Wai, where we arrived around noon. After a quick lunch we tried to find all the island specialities in the limited time we would spend on the island. We quickly found Varied Honeyeater, Olive Honeyeater, Island Whistler, Arafura Fantail, Lemon-bellied White-eye and Spice Imperial Pigeon. Also good views of a very responsive Dusky Megapode.

On the beach 2 Beach Kingfishers were located which showed nicely when flying out on the beach.

Then we had to leave the island and just before dusk, after a very choppy crossing again, we arrived back at Sorong. One of us ( not me!) had surely one of his most spectacular pit stops ever during this crossing to Sorong!!

A nice hotel with additional shower was welcomed by all of us.

Day 10: August 4    Sorong Lowlands (Klalin Rd.) – Sorong – Manokwari – Meinyunfoka Rd.

From dawn to 9.00 am we birded along a wide dirt road which traverses scrub and open fields and we also birded some fishponds, next to the road.

Fantastic views of a small flock of Orange-breasted Fig-Parrots which perched briefly in a bush, just next to the road. Brown-backed Honeyeater turned out to be rather common along this road. Other species seen during the morning include a single Wandering Whistling Duck, a flock of Radjah Shellduck, Pacific Baza, at least 7 Cinnamon Bitterns, Buff-banded Rails showing nicely in the open, Orange-fronted Fruit-Dove, Little Bronze Cuckoo, Glossy-mantled Manucode and a female Twelve-wired Bird-of-Paradise in flight.

The fish ponds gave us a nice selection of waders like a single Greenshank, Marsh Sandpiper, White-headed Stilt and Common Sandpiper. Best species though was a single Royal Spoonbill, which is a vagrant to this part of New Guinea.

At 13.00 we flew from Sorong to Manokwari and after checking in at our hotel (Hotel Fujita), we left for some late afternoon birding along the Meinyunfoka Rd.

The highlight was a single Collared Sparrowhawk and Grey Crow.

Day 11: August 5    Manokwari – Arfaks

We left Manokwari at 3.00 am with 3 4x4 pick-ups for our 2-hour drive to the Arfaks. Unfortunately we lost some time because of one of the cars breaking down. We had to cross several streams to reach our final destiny.

We were dropped at the start of a trail and we walked fast to 2 different hides which were overlooking display areas of Magnificent Birds-of-Paradise. Both groups had great views of 2 different males of Magnificent BOP.

One group (not mine unfortunately) were treated to a fantastic spectacle of display. A Green-backed Whistler also showed nicely from the hide. We then birded along the trail back to the main road. We heard Northern Scrub Robin but no views. At one time we saw the endemic Vogelkop Whistler, which caused some debate.

We walked along the main road to our accommodation. This was a half finished wooden shack, that could be reached be descending a VERY muddy trail from the main road. We put our mattresses and sleeping bags on the floor and after lunch we went up to the road. One group visited a nearby hide to try for Western Parotia and the others (including me) birded along the road and paid a visit to a hide overlooking a Vogelkop Bowerbird bower. The bird might not be impressive but the bower itself sure as hell is.

Unfortunately, it started to rain heavily in the afternoon and this hampered our birding severely. We birded a couple of hundred meters along the main road to some small streams. Iwein told us not to cross over the bridge to the other side as this belongs to a neighbouring village and crossing it could cause severe problems!

Back at our hut I walked through ankle-deep mud to our washing facility.(a dripping stream of water from a small pipe) but decided that this was the first and also the last time I tried this. Actually, this was way below standard and nobody washed themselves for the next couple of days.

Day 12: August 6    Arfaks

Before dawn I left for the short, steep climb up to the Western Parotia hide. The other group did not see any Parotia in the afternoon of August 4 but then the weather was terrible. Today it was dry and it was with high expectations that we set off. We spent 3 hours in the hide but no sign of any Parotia. Good views though of a very tame Lesser Ground Robin. At 10.00 am we left the hide, disappointed and together with the others we birded along the steep trail going up the hill. The trail was steep, muddy and even dangerous. We walked up to the top at around 2000 m. Just under the top is a small flat area where we had lunch. This lunch was brought to us by people from the village. We spent some time at the upper level and then descended back down the mountain. We failed to find any of our main targets like Western Parotia and Arfak Astrapia this afternoon but we did see quite a nice selection of species like Wattled Brush-Turkey, White-breasted fruit-Dove, Papuan Mountain-Pigeon, White-eared Bronze Cuckoo, Vogelkop Bowerbird, Papuan Treecreeper, Marbled Honeyeater, Green-backed Honeyeater, Western Smokey Honeyeater, Vogelkop Melidectes, Rufous-sided Honeyeater, Vogelkop Scrubwren, Grey-green Scrubwren, Mid Mountain Berrypecker,, Black-breasted Boatbill, Rufous-naped Whistler, Sclater’s Whistler, Regent Whistler, Black fantail, Dimorphic Fantail, several Garnet Robins, Smoky Robins, Blue-Grey Robin, Green-backed Robin and Capped White-eye.

Day 13: August 7    Arfaks

Four of us visited the Parotia hide in the early morning. Again no Parotia but they had good views of a Cinnamon Ground-Dove and Chris was the only one who saw a Wattled Brush-Turkey passing by.

Meanwhile I was birding along the main road and finally we discovered some female plumaged Western Parotias. First distant views but then they flew closer to the road and gave much better views.

In the afternoon I visited again the Parotia hide but again no luck. Back at the road the others had discovered a fruiting tree, which was regularly visited by Western Parotias, including an imm. male.

They also saw a Mottled Whistler along the road. Other notable birds were a single Mountain Drongo and a Dwarf Longbill. Meanwhile our guide Maurits was searching for roosting Owlet Nightjars but no luck so far. In the evening Feline Owlet Nightjar was briefly heard.

In the evening we decided to go up the ridge again early next morning. Chris decided not to join us and to bird the lower part, along the main road.

Day 14: August 8    Arfaks – Manokwari

This was our last full day in the Arfaks and we still needed plenty of sought after species.

In the early morning we left our hut and birded along a loop trail up the mountain. This trail was rather overgrown in places and the going was slow and difficult. Higher up, this trail joins the main trail, we birded 2 days before. Black Sicklebill was heard several times and some of us had some fleeting glimpses of one.

I finally succeeded in getting good views of a Cinnamon-browed Melidectes, a species which was very vocal but it took some time for me to get views of one. A Grey-headed Robin also showed briefly to most of us.

At the top we had good views of Black-throated Robin but otherwise it was rather quiet.

Just below the top we found a fruiting tree which kept us busy for a while. The tree was visited by a variety of parakeets like a single Pygmy Lorikeet, Plum-faced Parakeet, Yellow-billed Lorikeet and Papuan Lorikeet.

While watching this tree we were called by Maurits, who had discovered a roosting Mountain Owlet-Nightjar close by. We all had good views of this bird. I was lucky to observe a single Modest Tiger Parrot, that suddenly popped up and showed itself briefly to me. Unfortunately it did not stay long enough for the others to track it down.

When we descended the mountain , rather disappointed because we did not find the hoped for Arfak Astrapia, it started to rain heavily and by the time we got to our accommodation we were soaked.

Meanwhile Chris had birded along the main road and along a small muddy trail to the “washing facilities”.

Best species seen by him was the local (sub)species of Russet-tailed Thrush Zoothera heinei papuensis

We packed our gear and late afternoon we travelled back to Manokwari where we checked in at the same hotel.

After a well-deserved shower (the first possibility to wash ourselves after 3 days!), we had dinner. Looking back at our stay in the Arfaks we could only conclude that it had not yielded what we thought it would. The birding results were rather disappointing.

Day 15: August 9    Manokwari – Sentani

At dawn we started to bird some scrubby forest near Manokwari. It was already hot and humid and bird activity low. Best species were Dwarf Koel, Scrub White-eared Meliphaga and several Claret-breasted Fruit-Doves.

Then we returned to our hotel to pack for our flight to Sentani.

After an uneventful flight we arrived at Sentani airport and soon, after dropping our gear, we were back on the road. Late afternoon was spent birding in the Sentani grasslands near Lake Sentani.

The main targets were 2 species of Munia. It did not take long before we found Grand Munia and also Hooded Munia and Chestnut-breasted Munia. At least 2 Lesser Black Coucals were also observed.

In the evening we went for a pizza in town.

Day 16: August 10  Sentani – Nimbokrang

Before dawn we left in 2 cars for the 2-hours’ drive to the village of Nimbokrang. The first hour we birded in the scrubby fields along the Jalan Korea road. We quickly added Streak-headed Munia to our list and we flushed twice a King Quail. After some discussion we identified a single Meyer’s Friarbird, several Scrub White-eared Honeyeaters and Shining Flycatchers, and we also had a total of 6 Brown Lory’s in flight. Then our porters arrived and after some delay because of some problems with the local chief, we left for our 2-3 hour walk towards our base camp at the foot of the Cyclops mountains. At least that is what we thought that it would be:  a 2-3 hours’ walk but because of the heavy rainfall the last couple of days, large parts of the trail were flooded and it eventually took around 7 hours to reach our camp. Most of the time we had to wade slowly along the trail and cross streams over fragile wooden bridges.

At the edge of the forest we heard Rufous-tailed Bushhen but best species was a pair of gorgeous Blue-backed Kingfishers which showed nicely for most of us. We also observed our first Rufous-collared Monarch during this walk.

In the afternoon we mainly birded in the immediate vicinity of our camp. The trails were very muddy and our toilet facility was completely flooded so as a consequence…

Birds we saw today include Orange-bellied Fruit-Dove, a single Pinon Imperial Pigeon, Zoe Imperial Pigeon, a single Palm Cockatoo, Buff-faced Pygmy-Parrot, Red-cheeked Parrot, several Greater Black Coucals (one showed very nicely), Rufous-bellied Kookabura, Yellow-billed Kingfisher, Plain Honeyeater, Mimic Honeyeater,  Black Butcherbird, White-bellied Cuckoo-Shrike, Slender-billed Cicadabird and Yellow-faced Myna.

Most of us had problems getting into sleep. It was hot, humid at night. Papuan Boobook called most of the night around our camp.

Day 17: August 11  Nimbokrang area.

Today was my birthday and as usual I am far away from home.

The whole day we birded on the trails around our camp. We also spent considerable time at a fruiting tree at the edge of the clearing of our camp.

In the morning we birded a certain stretch where Victoria Crowned Pigeon is regularly encountered. And sure enough we first flushed 2 birds and shortly afterwards we had one briefly perched which gave reasonable views to most of us. We also visited a display area of Lesser Bird of Paradise where we witnessed the display behaviour of this species. At least 15 birds were observed. A nice male King Bird-of-Paradise also performed well. While walking the trail we bumped into a small flock of New Guinea Babblers and 2 of us (not me) where lucky enough to observe briefly a Pale-billed Sicklebill going along with the flock. Hans also saw a Blue-Jewel-Babbler crossing the track in front of him. Brown-collared Brush-Turkey was heard in the same area.

We also observed Yellow-gaped Honeyeater, Tawny-breasted Honeyeater, Long-billed Honeyeater, Dwarf Longbill, Pygmy Longbill, Yellow-breasted Boatbill, a flock of Rusty Pitohui, several Spot-winged Monarchs, a single Hooded Monarch, Grey-headed Whistler, Yellow-faced Myna and Golden Myna.

After some perseverance we had great views of Sooty Thicket-Fantail, a species that can be tricky to get good views of.

At the fruiting tree we observed Orange-bellied Fruit-Dove, Dwarf Fruit-Dove, Beautiful Fruit-Dove, Boyer’s Cuckoo-Shrike, New Guinea Cuckoo-Shrike, Golden Cuckoo-Shrike, Black-browed Triller and a Jobi Manucode.

In the afternoon I wandered of alone in search of a calling Brown-collared Brush-Turkey, that I did not find but I did observe a single Rufous Monarch, quietly perched in the sub-canopy.

In the evening the Boobook showed itself briefly.

Day 18: August 12  Nimbokrang area.

Because of extremely heavy rainfall during the night, our camp was completely flooded. When getting up, you first had to put on your boots, before you could step down from your table on which you were sleeping.

The whole day birding on the trails.

While scanning the fruiting tree I found a Fig-parrot that caused much debate. We finally came to the conclusion (at least I did) that it was a female Salvadori’s Fig Parrot. While watching the Fig-Parrot a Pale-billed Sicklebill called close by and suddenly the bird flew in en perched briefly on top of a bamboo stem. Bingo!

I also had very good views of a pair of perched Brown Lory’s.

In the afternoon the group split of and I birded together with Wiel and Hemme along the main trail. Along a dry stretch of the trail we stumbled upon a pair of Brown-collared Brush-Turkey’s, that gave great and close views foraging next to the trail. The others found an immature Cassowary in a snare. The bird was still alive and was set free by one of the locals. Best species seen by them was a White-crowned Koel.

Day 19: August 13  Nimbokrang – Sentani

We spent the morning birding around our camp, where we saw Rufous-backed Fantail, and then we left for our hike out of the forest towards the village of Nimbokrang. This time it took only 5 hours to reach the village. When walking to the cars we accidently met my friend Joseph Brooks and his companions Gary George and Uthai Treesucon. They were doing a West Papua trip with the Papua Bird Club and were accompanied by Zeth Wongor.

When they told us that they had seen Shovel-billed Kingfisher at a known stake-out, Peter and Graham were very disappointed to say the least. This was one of their most-wanted species, also because they had missed it in PNG.

After saying goodbye to the local VIP’s we drove back to Sentani. Again to the Pizza restaurant where some of us ate too much, for which they had to pay the price in the days afterwards.

Day 20: August 14  Sentani – Wamena – Lake Habbema

In the very early morning we said goodbye to Like, Iwein and also to Hans and Chris, who would fly back home today. The others, including me, left right on time (6.00 am) for the short flight to Wamena.

Jonas and his crew were already waiting for us and after dealing with the finances (we had to pay him in cash), Jonas quickly arranged for our permits and we drove immediately up to Lake Habbema.

We had to pass some tricky sections of the road and finally we arrived just above Lake Habbema. The cars were unloaded and our porters carried our camping gear down through the scrub to our camping site at the edge of Lake Habbema. We followed slowly and encountered twice a small flock of Papuan Thornbills and the first of many Orange-cheeked Honeyeaters.

On the Lake itself we observed several Salvadori’s Teals.

After lunch we started to walk along Lake Habbema, through grasslands and low scrub towards a small valley. The weather was nice and sunny. We had a great afternoon of birding and I personally scored 10 lifers today. Highlight was no doubt the great views we had of a pair of MacGregor’s Bird of Paradise.

But we also saw Snow Mountain-Quail and Alpine Pipit in the grasslands, Lorentz Whistler, Painted Tiger-Parrot, Splendid Astrapia male and female, a flock of Papuan Thornbills, White-winged Robin and Crested Berrypecker.

Very satisfied we returned to our camp site were we enjoyed dinner.

Day 21: August 15  Lake Habbema – Pondok Tiga.

After an early breakfast we started to walk from our camp at Lake Habbema through the grasslands towards Pondok Tiga, the campsite where we would spend the next 3 nights. It did not take long before we encountered a nice flock of Snow Mountain Munias. We also flushed a Salvadori’s Teal from a small pond and observed a gorgeous male Papuan Harrier.

At the marshy edge of the lake we observed at least 2 Spotless Rails. Jan Hein was the only one who saw Black-throated Honeyeater, a species we probably overlooked.

Around noon we arrived at Pondok Tiga. After lunch we started to bird along the main road and the steep upper part of the Ibele Valley along the Yebogema Trail. Unfortunately it started to rain heavily after a couple of hours and it became very difficult to climb back up again to the main road as the steep trail had been transformed into a muddy, slippery stream.

Species seen in this section include Plum-faced Lorikeet, Orange-billed Lorikeet, Painted Tiger-Parrot, a single Macgregor’s Bird of Paradise, Sooty Melidectes, Short-bearded Melidectes, Black-backed Honeyeater, Large Scrubwren, Crested Berrypecker, Mountain Firetail and for one lucky soul an Archbold’s (Sanford’s) Bowerbird.

In the evening the rain ceased but not a sniff of the Woodcock. According to Jonas the Woodcock had not been seen for at least a month. Jan Hein was lucky enough to spot a male Crested Bird of Paradise, crossing the main road at dusk.

Day 22: August 16  Pondok Tiga – Upper Ibele valley – Ibele Pass.

In the early morning we returned to the Upper Ibele valley and descended a couple of hundred meters along the steep trail. Most of the morning was spent along this trail. Highlight was the superb and close observation of a Lesser Melampitta on a fallen log. Graham decided to climb back up again to the main road to bird towards the pass while we birded further along the track. We were trying for Greater Ground Robin but never got a response. Interesting birds seen that morning include at least 2 Macgregor’s Bird of Paradise, Rufous-naped Whistler and Dimorphic Fantail and two people briefly saw a female Crested Bird of Paradise.

At noon we returned to camp and after lunch we birded along the main road up towards the Ibele pass. The weather was nice and sunny.

Best species seen were several Mountain or Alpine Robins, near to the pass. We also saw Painted Tiger-Parrot, and a flock of Black Sitella’s.

Day 23: August 17  Pondok Tiga – Ibele Pass – Down to Wamena

In the early morning the cars returned from Wamena and after breaking up camp, we birded all day down from Pondok Tiga along the main road to Wamena. We made birding stops at different altitudes and observed a nice selection of birds. At the higher reaches we observed Plum-faced/Whiskered Lorikeet, Papuan Lorikeet, Yellow-billed Lorikeet, Orange-billed Lorikeet and we had great views of Sooty Melidectes. Lower down, Wiel scored a single Modest Tiger-Parrot. Other birds seen along the road were several Mountain Robins, a single Papuan Treecreeper, Mountain Mouse-Warbler, 3 species of scrubwren, Mountain Gerygone, Brown-breasted Gerygone, Black-bellied Cuckoo-Shrike, Hooded Cuckoo-Shrike, Western Smoky Honeyeater, the local race of Golden Whistler by Hemme, Sclater’s Whistler, Lorentz’s Whistler, Friendly Fantail, Dimorphic Fantail, Black Fantail, Canary Flyrobin, Black-throated Robin and White-winged Robin.

Also a small flock of Snow Mountain Munias gave great views, just next to the road. Best species were probably a very vocal Rufous-throated Bronze-Cuckoo and at least 3 Orange-crowned Fairywrens.

A small side trail yielded a female King of Saxony Bird of Paradise.

During the last hour of the day we tried to find the Black-breasted Munia. It is not an uncommon bird in the right habitat at lower altitudes but up to now, the species had eluded us. Just in time, before it was getting too dark, we found a small flock of Munias just outside Wamena.

We spent the night in a very comfortable hotel. (Hotel Pilamo)

Looking back on our stay in the Snow Mountains, we could only conclude that in the limited time we spent in the area, we had seen most of the specialties we were after.

Day 24: August 18  Wamena – Sentani – Lake Sentani+Sentani Grasslands

In the early morning Jonas took us to the airport and after a short flight we touched down in Sentani again.

After dropping our gear we relaxed a bit in our hotel and after lunch we chartered a taxi to take us to Lake Sentani. It was scorching hot when we arrived at the lake and we did not see much. Two Dusky Moorhens were an addition to our list. The late afternoon was spent again in the grassland area which did not add any new species.

Day 25: August 19  Sentani – Biak.

In the early morning we went to the airport where we said goodbye to Jan Hein who would fly back to London today with a day to spare in Jakarta. The 5 of us flew to Biak.

After collecting our gear we walked out of the airport on Biak and checked in at the aerotel Irian just next to the airport.

This luxury hotel would be our base for the next couple of days. The rest of the afternoon was spent arranging transport for our birding on the island, making enquiries how to get to Numfor (plane or boat) and trying to locate Benny Lesomar. I took a bemo to the hotel Arumbai and there we found out that Benny was no longer residing in this hotel and had started his own business. He was not present on the island for the next couple of days either. Inquiries at the airport revealed that it was impossible to fly to Numfor in the next couple of days.

Fortunately, the manager of our hotel spoke perfect English and was able to arrange transport and best of all he was also able to contact people in the harbour to arrange our boat to Numfor.

Day 26: August 20  Biak – Makmakerbo area.

At 5.00 am we left for the one hour’s drive to Makmakerbo. Iwein had drawn us a small map of the area.

It turned out that one specific trail was very productive. Unfortunately we had to stay in the car for a while because of heavy rainfall. After the rain had ceased we tried several trails in the area.

Best species seen were Biak Megapode, Yellow-bibbed Fruit-Dove, great views of several Biak Paradise-Kingfishers, a single Dusky Myzomela and Long-tailed Starling.

Mid morning we birded a rather wide trail which transferred to a nice patch of mixed forest. Mostly disturbed forest, with secondary scrub but also with small patches of primary forest. We bumped into a small flock in which we observed Biak Gerygone, Biak Golden Monarch, Biak Flycatcher and Slender-billed Cicadabird.

At noon we were back at our hotel. In the afternoon we checked several boats in the harbour and we finally made a deal with a boatsman. We insisted on a good and safe boat as we knew that the crossing would probably be rough. We agreed to leave at dawn next day.

Day 27: August 21  Biak - Numfor

We were up before dawn but unfortunately the wind had picked up during the night and it was uncertain if we could make the trip today. But around 8.00 the sea was calm enough to make the crossing to Numfor.

It was again a rather choppy crossing and it took longer than anticipated to reach Numfor.

Finally at 13.00 am we landed on a beach, close to the village of Yemanu on Numfor. The whole village welcomed us on the beach and escorted us with our luggage to the communal house. Here we were greeted by the village elders and they agreed to let us sleep in one of the rooms and to provide dinner for us in the evening.

After installing us in the room we showed some village boys the picture of Numfor Paradise Kingfisher and they immediately recognised the species and told us that they know how and where to find the bird.

So, of we went into the forest, close to the village, along a small trail, accompanied by a dozen or so youngsters.

At first I was not very confident that we would track down the kingfisher with such a large group but within 30 minutes they found first an immature bird and later at least 2 different adult ones. They all gave great views and could be photographed. So mission accomplished. In the process we also had great views in a fruiting tree of Biak Red Lory and Geelvink Pygmy-Parrot.

At dusk some of us saw a Papuan Frogmouth, briefly in flight.

In the evening we enjoyed a simple but great meal, prepared by some village woman. Very pleased with the birding results of today’s birding we went to sleep. Despite laying on a very thin blanket, I slept remarkedly well on the wooden floor.

Day 28: August 22  Numfor – Biak

We birded the same stretch of forest in the morning from 6.30 – 9.30 am. Several Numfor Paradise Kingfishers were observed again and we tried to find the local subspecies of megapode but to no avail.

At 10.00 am we said goodbye to our friendly hosts and waded to our boat for our trip back to Biak.

During the crossing we twice observed a shearwater we identified at the time as Sooty Shearwater but we later had doubts about this identification as we could not exclude some other similar looking species.

We arrived back at Biak late afternoon and went back to our hotel. Some nice, cold beers were appreciated.

Day 29: August 23  Biak

At 5.00 am again we left for the drive to the Makmakerbo area. This time we drove straight to the start of the trail, where we thought we would have the best chance of finding the rare Biak Monarch.

We birded slowly along the trail and after some playback we had great views of a Biak Megapode right on the trail and later one perched in a tree in full view. Along a small side trail a Hooded Pitta was seen by some of us.

We also birded some time along the main road and then returned to the trail.

It happened that in the same area as a few days earlier, we bumped into a flock again and suddenly Wiel called out “Monarch”. Unfortunately only a few of us could locate the bird before it flew away, out of sight.

Despite spending quite some time in the general area we never saw the flock and the bird again.

We drove back to our hotel for lunch and some rest and returned to Makmakerbo in the late afternoon. This time we wanted to stay after dark, to try for Biak Scops Owl.

We first birded along the main road where we tried for Biak Coucal but unfortunately we only heard the species briefly, just before dusk. We were also unlucky that it started to rain in the early evening and we decided to give up on the owl and return to our hotel. On our way back we drove along a side road, where in the head lights we flushed a bird from the road side which looked very much like a Barn Owl. The problem is though that this species does not occur on Biak!

Day 30: August 24  Biak

At dawn we were again in the Makmakerbo area. And again after some time we bumped into (probably) the same flock again with among others Shining Flycatcher, Biak Black Flycatcher, Biak Golden Monarch and Biak Gerygone.

This time Hemme and Graham saw the Monarch and by now we all had observed the bird except me! This was rather frustrating. In the process we had good views of a Hooded Pitta, which was hardly any compensation.

We stayed in the general area and after an hour or so the flock reappeared and this time we all had fantastic views of at least 2 males of Biak Monarch in the flock. What a relief!

Graham also noticed a 3^rd. individual with a white throat that was most likely an immature bird.

Now we decided to visit an area of heavily degraded forest, which is supposed to be good for the Biak White-eye, a species which had eluded us up to now.

A short birding stop was made in a nice looking forest patch, but besides fantastic views of a single Geelvink Pygmy-Parrot we did not see much, which was no surprise at this time of the day.

We drove towards Kota Biak and opposite a parking area for bulldozers we turned right on the so-called Sepse Rd. After a kilometre or so, we started to walk along this road and suddenly we heard the calls of the White-eye. It came from an area of some higher scrub a few hundred meters from the road. We walked to that area and after some playback 3 birds came in and gave amazing views.

We returned to Kota Biak for lunch and stayed at our hotel in the afternoon because it rained heavily most of the time.

Day 31: August 25  Biak

We decided to bird along the Sepse Rd in the morning to try for Biak Coucal. From time to time we had some heavy showers.We birded the heavily degraded, scrubby area extensively but no Coucal.

We did see at least 2 Biak White-eyes.

At noon we finally met Benny Lesomar at our hotel and talked to him about birding on Biak. He did not have time to go with us but recommended one of the local guides who could help us find the 2 remaining species the Biak Coucal and the Biak Scops Owl. So he phoned this guy and we made a deal to go birding with him in the afternoon and early evening.

So we birded the Makmakerbo area again with him but failed to find either species. We did see Biak Paradise Kingfisher, Hooded Pitta, Biak Red Lory and Emperor Fairywren. At one time, when it was completely dark, we heard a mowing call which according to our guide was a contact call of Biak Scops Owl. This was absolutely different from the call we had on our I-pod.

At 20.30 pm we gave up and drove back to our hotel.

Day 32: August 26  Biak – Makassar – Jakarta – Dubai – Amsterdam

Just before 10.00 am we left Biak and flew with a short stop at Makassar to Jakarta, where we arrived at 13.25 pm. Graham had to take a flight with Lufthansa to Vienna, Hemme and Peter decided to stay at the airport, while Wiel and I took a taxi to nearby Maure Angke for a couple of hours of birding and to try for the Sunda Coucal once more. We birded Maure Angke until 17.00 pm and we failed again to find the coucal. We returned to the airport and got stuck in a terrible traffic jam. Finally we arrived back at the airport where we teamed up again with Hemme and Peter. At the customs we were all picked out because our visa was no longer valid. We had a 30 day visum but today was day 31 in the country. After paying a small fine we were allowed to continue boarding.

At 20.30 we left for Amsterdam.

Day 33: August 27  Amsterdam – Geldrop

Arrived at Schiphol Airport, Amsterdam at 8.45 am.

After collecting our luggage, I said goodbye to the others and took the train home where I arrived around noon.

Another memorable trip had ended.

Henk Hendriks Geldrop November 2011

hhendriks@onsmail.nl

SHORT ITINERARY

26 July           Amsterdam – Dubai - Jakarta.
27 July           Arrival Jakarta. Afternoon visit to Maure Angke wetland.
28 July           Jakarta – Makassar – Sorong. Afternoon birding along the Makbon Rd.
29 July           Sorong Lowland Birding. In the morning along the Sale Rd. Afternoon Makbon Rd.
30 July           Boat trip from Sorong – Waigeo.
31 July           Waigeo
01 August      Waigeo
02 August      Waigeo
03 August      Waigeo – Pulau Wai – Sorong
04 August      Birding along the Klalin Rd., Sorong (6.15 – 9.00 am). Flight Sorong – Manokwari. Afternoon birding along Meinyunfoka Rd. Manokwari (16.30 – 18.00 pm)
05 August      Manokwari – Arfak. Arfak
06 August      Arfak
07 August      Arfak
08 August      Arfak. Arfak – Manokwari
09 August      Birding near Manokwari, Taman Wasata Alamgunungmeja from 6:15 until 7:30 + Meinyunfoka Rd from 8:30 to 9:30. Flight Manokwari – Jayapura (Sentani). Birding Lake Sentani grasslands – Jalan Toware (17.00 – 18.00 pm)
10 August      Jayapura – Nimbokrang.
11 August      Nimbokrang
12 August      Nimbokrang
13 August      Nimbokrang – Jayapura (Sentani)
14 August      Flight Jayapura (Sentani) – Wamena.(arrival 7.15 am) Drive to Lake Habbema Camp. Afternoon birding around Lake Habbema.
15 August      Walk from Lake Habbema Camp to Pondok Tiga Camp. Visit to Upper Ibele Valley.
16 August      Morning Upper Ibele Valley. Afternoon Ibele Pass.
17 August      Morning Ibele Pass and birding down along the road to Wamena.
18 August      Flight Wamena – Jayapura (Sentani). Afternoon visit to Lake Sentani + grasslands.
19 August      Flight Jayapura (Sentani) – Kota Biak. Afternoon relaxing and arranging things for the next couple of days.
20 August      All morning birding in the Makmakerbo area.Heavy rain in the afternoon. Late afternoon birding.
21 August      Boat trip from Biak – Numfor. Arriving at 13.00 pm. Afternoon birding in the degraded forest outside the village of Yemanu.
22 August      Birding around the village until 10.00 am. Boat trip from Numfor to Biak.
23 August      Birding at Makmakerbo from 5.00 – 12.00 am. and again from 15.00 – 19.00 pm.
24 August      Birding at Makmakerbo from 5.00 – 12.00 and late afternoon Sepse Rd.
25 August      All morning at Sepse Rd. Makmakerbo area from 15.30 – 20.30 pm.
26 August      Flight Biak – Makassar – Jakarta. Afternoon birding at Maure Angke Wetland. Early evening flight Jakarta – Dubai – Amsterdam.
27 August      Arrival Amsterdam in the early morning. Train Amsterdam – Eindhoven.

SYSTEMATIC LIST OF SPECIES OBSERVED IN WEST PAPUA July – August 2011

CASUARIIDAE

Northern Cassowary Casuarius unappendiculatus - NE
On 12-08 a imm. bird trapped in a snare was set free by us in the Nimbokrang area.
Iwein estimated that the bird was 5-6 months old.
This species is considered “Vulnerable” according to “Threatened Birds of the World”.

PROCELLARIIDAE

[Sooty Shearwater Puffinus griseus]
During the crossing from Biak to Numfor we identified at least 2 single birds.
Back home we came to the conclusion that we could not exclude similar looking species like Short-tailed Shearwater
During the crossing from Biak to Numfor and from Sorong to Waigeo we saw several unidentified shearwaters.

Matsudaira’s Storm Petrel Oceanites matsudairae
On 30-07 1 single bird (possibly 2) seen between Sorong – Waigeo.

FREGATIDAE

Lesser Frigatebird Fregata ariel
During the crossing from Sorong to Waigeo on 30-07 we encountered a large group of 40 birds.
During the crossing to and from Numfor we saw 6 and 10 exx. The birds close enough for identification were all Lesser Frigatebirds.

PHALACROCORAX

Little Pied Cormorant Phalacrocorax melanoleucos
On 02-08 1 ex flew along the river at dusk near our campsite on Waigeo.
1 ex on 14-08 and 2 exx on 15-08 on Lake Habbema.

Little Black Cormorant Phalacrocorax sulcirostris
On 04-08 4 exx along the Klalin Rd., Sorong.

SULIDAE

Brown Booby Sula leucogaster ssp.plotus
On 21-08 2 single birds on the crossing from Biak to Numfor.

ARDEIDAE

Great Egret Egretta alba ssp.modesta
On 04-08 1 ex near Sorong.
On 18-08 1 ex at Lake Sentani.

Intermediate Egret Egretta intermedia ssp.plumifera
On 29-07 7 exx.Sorong Lowlands
On 18-08 2 exx. at Lake Sentani.

Little Egret Egretta garzetta ssp.nigripes
On 29-07 1 ex Sorong Lowlands.
On 30-07 3 exx on Waigeo.
Single birds on 2 dates at Waigeo.
On 04-08 10-12 exx Sorong Lowlands

Eastern Cattle Egret Bubulcus coromandus
A total of 6 exx on 2 dates Sorong Lowlands

Eastern Reef Egret (Pacific Reef Egret) Egretta sacra.
On 03-08 a single bird on Pulau Wai.
On 21-08 1 ex on Numfor.

Cinnamon Bittern Ixobrychus cinnamomeus
On 04-08 7 exx Sorong Lowlands

Striated Heron Butorides striatus ssp.papuensis
Single birds on 30-07 on Waigeo and on 04-08 Sorong Lowlands.

Rufous Night-Heron Nycticorax caledonicus ssp.hilli
On 01-08 1 single bird on Waigeo.

THRESKIORNITHIDAE

Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus
On 29-07 34 exx Sorong Lowlands.

Royal Spoonbill Platalea regia
On 04-08 1 ex Sorong Lowlands. A vagrant in this part of West Papua.

PANDIONIDAE

Osprey Pandion haliaetus ssp.cristatus
On 30-07 1 ex harbour of Sorong.
A total of 6 exx on 4 dates on Waigeo.
On 18-08 1 ex at Lake Sentani.
On 21-08 1 ex on Numfor.

ACCIPITRIDAE

Pacific Baza (Crested Hawk) Aviceda subcristata ssp.stenozona
On 04-08 1 ex near Sorong and another bird near Manokwari
Also seen on 3 dates on Biak. This is ssp.obscura

Long-tailed Buzzard Henicopernis longicauda - NE
On 29-07 2 exx Sorong Lowlands.
On 02-08 1 ex Waigeo.
On 04-08 1 ex Manokwari
A total of 4 exx on 3 dates in the Arfaks.
On 12 and 13-08 a total of 3 exx near Nimbokrang.
On 24-08 1 ex on Biak.

Brahminy Kite Haliastur Indus ssp.girrenera
Regularly observed throughout the trip, mostly in coastal areas.

White-bellied Sea Eagle Haliaeetus leucogaster
On 03-08 2 exx Pulau Wai.
On 22-08 1 ex on Numfor.
On 23-08 and 25-08 a single bird on Biak.

Papuan Harrier Circus spilothorax - NE
A total of 5 exx on 3 dates in the Lake Habbema area, including some gorgeous males.

Variable Goshawk (Varied Goshawk) Accipiter hiogaster leucosomus
Single birds observed Sorong Lowlands, Waigeo, Arfaks and near Nimbokrang.
On 25-08 1-2 exx on Biak. This is ssp.misoriensis

Black-mantled Goshawk Accipiter melanochlamys - NE
On 16-08 an immature bird observed in the Snow Mountains by Graham.

Grey-headed Goshawk Accipiter poliocephalus - NE
On 29-07 1 ex Sorong Lowlands

Collared Sparrowhawk Accipiter cirrhocephalus ssp.papuanus
On 05-08 1 ex in the Arfaks near our accommodation area.

Gurney’s Eagle Aquila gurneyi - NE
On 25-08 1 ex near Kota Biak.

Little Eagle Hieraaetus morphnoides
On 12-08 1 ex near Nimbokrang by Wiel and Hans
Note: Gregory mentions a possible split: Pygmy Eagle Hieraaetus weiskei

ANATIDAE

Wandering Whistling Duck Dendrocygna arcuata
On 04-08 1 ex. Sorong Lowlands
On 09-08 3 exx at Lake Sentani

Radjah Shelduck (White-headed Shelduck) Tadorna radjah
A total of 10 exx on 3 dates on Waigeo.
On 04-08 a group of 12 exx flew by Sorong Lowlands

Salvadori’s Teal Anas waigiuensis - NE
On 14-08 we scoped 8 exx at Lake Habbema.
On 15-08 3 exx gave very good views close to the shore of Lake Habbema and one was flushed at close range from a grassland pool.
This species is considered “Vulnerable” according to “Threatened Birds of the World”.

MEGAPODIIDAE

Dusky Megapode Megapodius freycinet - NE
Regularly heard on Waigeo and a total of 4 exx seen on 3 dates.
On 03-08 seen exceptionally well on Pulau Wai.

Biak Megapode Megapodius geelvinkianum - NE
Heard on 3 dates on Biak.
On 23-08 2 exx seen near Makmakerbo, Biak.
It is considered “Vulnerable”by “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Red-billed Brush-turkey Talegalla cuvieri - NE
On 29-07 heard in the Sorong Lowlands.

Brown-collared Brush-turkey Talegalla jobiensis - NE
Daily heard in the Nimbokrang area and a total of 4 exx seen on 3 dates.
On 13-08 excellent views of a pair in full view, foraging on the trail, Nimbokrang.

Bruijn’s Brush-turkey Aepypodius bruijnii - NE
On 01-08 Peter and Graham had poor, rather distant views of one from the W.BOP hide.
On 02-08 1 ex walked past the Wilson’s Bop hide and was seen by Hemme, Jan Hein and Hans. Especially Hans and Hemme had fantastic views.
In the afternoon of the same day, Wiel and I flushed a bird just next of the trail when walking back from the hide. The bird flew up the slope, crashing through the vegetation and was only seen in flight and could not be relocated.
According to Iwein only a handful of birders have seen this species in the wild.
It is considered “Vulnerable”by “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Wattled Brush-turkey Aepypodius arfakianus - NE
On 06-08 1 ex seen on the main trail, Arfaks.
On 07-08 1 ex seen by Chris walking past the Western Parotia hide, Arfaks.

PHASIANIDAE

Snow Mountain Quail Anurophasis monorthonyx -NE
On 14-08 3 exx in the Lake Habbema area.
This grouse-like species is endemic to West Papua and is restricted to the higher reaches of the Snow Mountains. It is also the only member of its genus.
It is treated as “Near-Threatened” in BirdLife International’s ‘Threatened Birds of the World’.

King Quail (Blue-breasted Quail) Coturnix chinensis ssp.novaguinea
Several were flushed from the grasslands in the Lake Sentani area on 09-08 and 18-08.
On 10-08 1 ex was seen on the ground near Nimbokrang.

RALLIDAE

Red-necked Crake Rallina tricolor
A total of 6 exx on 2 dates from the Bop hide on Waigeo

Bare-eyed Rail Eulabeornis plumbeiventris
This species was surprisingly observed on 4 dates from the hide on Waigeo.
On 31-07 I, together with 3 others saw the bird walking in front of the hide at a distance of less than 3 meters.
On 24-08 Peter saw one along the road on Biak.

Buff-banded Rail Rallus philippensis ssp.lacustris
On 29-07 3 exx and on 04-08 5 exx in the Sorong Lowlands.
One was on the road just outside Wamena as we drove down on 17-08. This is ssp.reductus

Spotless Crake Porzana tabuensis ssp.edwardsii
On 15-08 heard and 2 exx seen well at the edge of Lake Habbema.

Rufous-tailed Bush-hen Amaurornis moluccanus
On 10-08 heard in the grasslands near Nimbokrang.

Dusky Moorhen Gallinula tenebrosa ssp.neumanni
On 18-08 2 birds showed well on Lake Sentani.

Australian Swamphen Porphyrio melanotus ssp.melanopterus
On 04-08 8 exx in the Sorong Lowlands

Eurasian Coot (Common C) Fulica atra ssp.novaguinea
Up to 20 were seen on Lake Habbema.

RECURVIROSTRIDAE

White-headed Stilt Himantopus leucocephalus
On 04-08 2 exx Sorong Lowlands

SCOLOPACIDAE

Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus ssp.variegatus
A total of 4 exx on 2 dates on Waigeo.

Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia
On 04-08 1 ex Sorong Lowlands

Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola
On 29-07 12 exx Sorong Lowlands

Marsh Sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis
On -4-08 3 exx Sorong Lowlands

Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos
On 03-08 1 ex on Pulau Wai
On 04-08 1 ex near Sorong
On 21-08 1 ex. on the beach of Numfor.

Grey-tailed Tattler Heteroscelus brevipes
A total of 5 exx on 2 dates on Waigeo.

STERNIDAE

Whiskered Tern Chlidonias hybrida ssp.fluviatilis
On 04-08 2 exx Sorong Lowlands.

Bridled Tern Sterna anaethetus
On 30-07 40+ between Sorong – Waigeo.

Crested Tern (Great C T) Sterna bergii ssp.cristatus
Regular observations of this widespread species during the crossing to Waigeo and between Biak-Numfor.

Brown Noddy Anous stolidus ssp.pileatus
On 30-07 a flock of 12 exx between Sorong - Waigeo

Black Noddy Anous minutes
On 30-07 at least 1 identified between Sorong – Waigeo.
On 21-08 a flock of 20 exx between Biak – Numfor.

COLUMBIDAE

Slender-billed Cuckoo-Dove Macropygia amboinensis
Single birds observed Sorong Lowlands, on Waigeo ssp.doreya and near Nimbokrang ssp.kerstingi
Several seen on Biak.

Black-billed Cuckoo-Dove Macropygia nigrirostris - NE
Only a few seen on 2 dates in the Arfaks.

Great Cuckoo-Dove Reinwardtoena reinwardtsi - NE
On 29-07 1 ex Sorong Lowlands
On 03-08 1 ex on Waigeo. ssp griseotincta
On 04-08 1 ex Manokwari.
Single birds on 3 dates on Biak. Ssp.brevis

Stephan’s Dove Chalcophaps stephani:
A total of 4 exx on 3 dates on Waigeo.
On 09-08 1 ex near Manokwari.
On 10-08 3 exx near Nimbokrang.
On 20-08 3 exx Biak.

Emerald Dove Chalcohaps indica minima
On 20-08 3 exx Biak.

Cinnamon Ground Dove Gallicolumba rufigula - NE
On 02-08 1 ex walked across the display ground of the Wilson’s Bop on Waigeo.
This is ssp.rufigula
On 07-08 1 ex walked across the display ground of the Western Parotia, Arfaks.
This is ssp. septentrionalis

Western Crowned Pigeon Goura cristata ssp.minor - NE
On 31-07 3 exx on Waigeo.
A perched bird could be studied in the scope for as long as we wanted.
This species is considered “Vulnerable” according to “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Victoria Crowned Pigeon Goura Victoria ssp.beccarii- NE
On 11-08 we flushed at least 3 birds and 1 perched long enough for all to see at Nimbokrang.
On 12-08 another bird was briefly seen in the same general area.
This species is considered “Vulnerable” according to “Threatened Birds of the World”

Wompoo Fruit-Dove Ptilinopus magnificus - NE
Regularly seen in the lowlands. Recorded on 7 dates. on Waigeo ssp.alaris
On 11-08 10+ in the Nimbokrang area. This is ssp. septentrionalis

Pink-spotted Fruit-Dove Ptilinopus perlatus - NE
On 29-07 heard in the Sorong Lowlands.
A total of 4 exx on 2 dates on Waigeo.
On 09-08 10 exx near Manokwari.

Orange-fronted Fruit-Dove Ptilinopus aurantiifrons - NE
On 04-08 10+ Sorong Lowlands

Superb Fruit-Dove Ptilinopus superbus
A total of 3 exx on 2 dates on Waigeo.
On 10-08 1 ex near Nimbokrang.

Coroneted Fruit-Dove Ptilinopus coronulatus - NE
On 12-08 1 ex Nimbokrang.

Beautiful Fruit-Dove Ptilinopus pulchellus - NE
On 29-07 2 exx Sorong Lowlands.
A total of 20 exx on 4 dates on Waigeo.
A total of 4 exx on 2 dates Nimbokrang. This is ssp.decorus

White-breasted Fruit-Dove Ptilinopus rivoli
On 03-08 1 ex. on Pulau Wai by Graham. This is ssp. prasinorrhous
Regularly observed and heard in the Arfak Mountains.
A total of 24 on 4 dates in the Arfaks. This is ssp.bellus
Only heard in the Snow Mountains.

Yellow-bibbed Fruit-Dove Ptilinopus solomonensis ssp.speciosus
Small numbers on Biak and Numfor.
Note: Gregory mentions this ssp. as a possible, future split.

Claret-breasted Fruit-Dove Ptilinopus viridis
On 09-08 6 exx near Manokwari. This ssp.pectoralis
A total of 22 on 2 dates on Numfor. This is ssp.geelvinkiana
On 24-08 1 pair on Biak and on 25-08 in scrubby habitat on Biak at least 20 exx.

Orange-bellied Fruit-Dove Ptilinopus iozonus - NE
A total of 42 exx on 2 dates in the Sorong Lowlands. This is ssp.humeralis
A total of 25 exx on 4 dates in the Nimbokrang area. This is ssp.jobiensis

Dwarf Fruit-Dove Ptilinopus nanus - NE
On 11-08 2 exx and on 12-08 1 ex in the fruiting tree near our camp site, Nimbokrang.

Spice Imperial Pigeon Ducula myristicivora - NE
On 03-08 10+ on Pulau Wai.
A few daily on Numfor and on 25-08 8 exx on Biak. This is ssp.geelvinkiana

Purple-tailed Imperial Pigeon Ducula rufigaster - NE
On 29-07 heard Sorong Lowlands.
On 31-07 1 ex on Waigeo.
On 11-08 4 exx Nimbokrang. This is ssp.uropygialis

Pinon Imperial Pigeon Ducula pinon - NE
Commonly observed in the Sorong Lowlands and Waigeo.
On 04-08 3 exx by Manokwari.
On 10-08 a single bird at Nimbokrang. This is ssp. jobiensis

Zoe Imperial Pigeon Ducula zoeae - NE
On 28-07 1 ex near Sorong.
On 10-08 5 exx at Nimbokrang.

Papuan Mountain Pigeon (Bare-eyed M-P) Gymnophaps albertisii
Flocks up to 50 exx encountered in the Arfaks.

PSITTACIDAE

Black Lory Chalcopsitta atra - NE
Apparently easy to find this year as we recorded 26 exx on 2 dates in the Sorong Lowlands.

Brown Lory Chalcopsitta duivenbodei ssp.syringanuchalis .- NE
A total of 19 exx on 3 dates in the Nimbokrang area.
Mostly in flight but on 12-08 great views of 2 perched birds.

Biak Red Lory Eos cyanogenia NE
A total of 13 on 2 dates on Numfor.
A total of 25 on 3 dates on Biak. This beauty gave some great views on both Numfor as well as Biak. It is endemic to islands of the Geelvink Bay and thus a West Papua endemic.
It is treated as “Vulnerable” in BirdLife International’s ‘Threatened Birds of the World’.

Rainbow Lorikeet Trichoglossus haematodus:
Regularly observed throughout the lowlands. Recorded on 11 dates.
Sorong Lowlands, Waigeo, Nimbokrang, Biak and Numfor.
Note: Gregory suggests 2 splits:

-Coconut Lorikeet Trichoglossus haematodus for Papua New Guinea

-Biak Lorikeet trichochlossus rosenbergii for the birds of Biak (also likely on Numfor)
"Rainbow Lorikeet" now restricted to the moluccas.

Western Black-capped Lory Lorius lory  NE
A species, that is luckily still fairly common everywhere in the lowlands.
Recorded on 7 dates in the Sorong Lowlands, Waigeo and Nimbokrang (ssp.salvadorii)

Pygmy Lorikeet Charmosyna wilhelminae NE
On 08-08 1 ex Arfaks

Red-fronted Lorikeet Charmosyna rubronotata ssp.kordoana
On 20-08 2 exx at Biak.

Red-flanked Lorikeet Charmosyna placentas ssp.ornata
On 29-07 and on 04-08 2 exx Sorong Lowlands.

Papuan Lorikeet Charmosyna papou ssp.papou NE
On 08-08 2 exx in a flowering tree in the Arfaks. (Red-phase birds)
A total of 3 exx on 2 dates in the upper Ibele valley, Snow Mountains. Ssp.golianthina.

Plum-faced Lorikeet (Whiskered Lorikeet) Oreopsittacus arfaki NE
On 08-08 2 exx Arfaks.
A total of 25 exx on 3 dates in the upper Ibele valley, Snow Mountains. Ssp.major

Yellow-billed Lorikeet Neopsittacus musschenbroekii NE
A total of 4 exx on 2 dates in the Arfaks.
On 17-08 10 exx in the lower parts of the Snow Mountains, when travelling back to Wamena. This is ssp.major

Orange-billed Lorikeet Neopsittacus pullicauda ssp.alpinus NE
A total of 20 exx on 4 dates in the upper Ibele valley, Snow Mountains.

Palm Cockatoo Probosciger aterrimus
On 29-07 2 exx in the Sorong Lowlands.
On 30-07 2 exx on Waigeo. Ssp.goliath
A total of 6 exx on 4 dates in the Nimbokrang area. Ssp.stenolophus

Sulphur-crested Cockatoo Cacatua galerita ssp.triton
Regularly in the lowlands.
A total of 5 exx on 2 dates in the Sorong Lowlands.
Up to 10 exx daily on Waigeo.
Single birds daily in the Nimbokrang area.
Daily 2 to 3 exx on Biak and Numfor.

Buff-faced Pygmy Parrot Micropsitta pusio ssp.beccarii NE
Recorded on 3 dates in the Nimbokrang area.
On 12-08 30+ observed.

Geelvink Pygmy Parrot Micropsitta geelvinkiana NE
On 21-08 1 ex and on 22-08 2 exx on Numfor.
A total of 3 exx on 2 dates on Biak. Some good and close views.
It is endemic to Biak and Numfor and thus to West Papua.
It is treated as “Near-Threatened” in BirdLife International’s ‘Threatened Birds of the World’.

Double-eyed Fig-Parrot Cyclopsitta diopthalma NE
On 29-07 5 exx Sorong Lowlands.

Salvadori’s Fig-Parrot Psittaculirostris salvadorii NE
On 12-08 1 female in fruiting tree, Nimbokrang area.
This bird caused a lot of discussion between us.

Large Fig-Parrot Psittaculirostris desmarestii ssp.occidentalis NE
On 28-07 7 exx in the Sorong Lowlands.

Orange-breasted Fig-Parrot Cyclopsitta gulielmiterti NE
On 04-08 6 exx Sorong Lowlands. Great views of this small group in the scope.
The nominate ssp. is very rare near Sorong.

Painted Tiger-Parrot Psittacella picta ssp.lorentzi NE
A total of 9 exx on 3 dates in the Lake Habbema area.
Very distinctive form lorentzi

Modest Tiger-Parrot Psittacella modesta NE
On 08-08 2 single birds were seen in the Arfaks
On 17-08 1 ex Snow Mountains.

Red-cheeked Parrot Geoffroyus geoffroyi
Regularly observed in the lowlands. Recorded on 7 dates.
Sorong Lowlands (ssp.pucherani), Nimbokrang (ssp.minor) area and Biak (mysoriensis).

Eclectus Parrot Eclectus roratus
Fairly common in all the visited lowland habitats.
Recorded on 11 dates. Sorong Lowlands, Waigeo, lowlands by Manokwari, Nimbokrang (ssp.pylochloris) and a few on Biak and Numfor (ssp.biaki).

Moluccan King-Parrot Alisterus amboinensis ssp.dorsalis
On 29-07 2 exx in the Sorong Lowlands

Vulturine Parrot (Pesquet’s Parrot) Psittrichas fulgidus NE
On 05-08 only heard during a roadside stop to the Arfaks.
It is treated as Vulnerable by BirdLife International in ‘Threatened Birds of the World’.

CUCULIDAE

Fan-tailed Cuckoo Cacomantis flabelliformis
On 05-08 1ex was heard by the clearing where we were staying in the Arfaks. 

Brush Cuckoo Cacomantis variolosus
Recorded on 13 dates on lowland sites like Sorong Lowlands, Waigeo, near Manokwari, Nimbokrang and on Biak. Mostly heard but also regularly seen well.

Chestnut-breasted Cuckoo Cacomantis castaneiventris NE
On 29-07 1 ex near Sorong.

Rufous-throated Bronze Cuckoo Chrysococcyx ruficollis NE
On 17-08 1 ex seen very well during our descent from Lake Habbema towards Wamena.

White-eared Bronze Cuckoo Chrysococcyx meyerii NE
Heard on 05-08 in the Arfaks and single birds seen on 05 and 06-08 in the Arfaks.

Little Bronze Cuckoo Chrysococcyx minutillus
On 04-08 a few heard and 1 ex seen along the Klalin Rd. near Sorong.

White-crowned Koel Caliechthrus leucolophus NE
On 12-08 1 ex at Nimbokrang.

Dwarf Koel (Black-capped Koel) Microdynamis parva  NE
On 09-08 1 adult and 1 imm bird observed near Manokwari.

Greater Black Coucal Centropus menbeki NE
On 28-07 1 ex near Sorong and heard on 29-07 near Sorong.
Heard on 3 dates near Nimbokrang and a total of 4 exx actually seen.

Lesser Black Coucal Centropus bernsteini NE
On 09-08 two in the grasslands beside Lake Sentani.

Biak Coucal Centropus chalybeus NE
Sadly only heard on 4 dates on Biak.
Considered “Near Threatened” by “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Pheasant Coucal Centropus phasianinus ssp.propinquus
On 09-08 good views of 2 in the grasslands beside Lake Sentani.

STRIGIDAE

Papuan Boobook Ninox theomacha ssp.hoedtii NE
Heard every night around our camp on Waigeo and seen on 31-07.
Heard every night around our camp in the forest of Nimbokrang and seen on 2 dates.

PODARGIDAE

Marbled Frogmouth Podargus ocellatus  
Fantastic spot-light views of a bird on Waigeo where several were heard calling on several occasions.

Papuan Frogmouth Podargus papuensis:
On 21-08 1 ex on Numfor.

AEGOTHELIDAE

Feline Owlet-Nightjar Aegotheles insignis) NE
On 05-08 heard in the Arfaks.

Mountain Owlet-Nightjar Aegotheles albertisi NE
Fantastic daytime views in the Arfak Mountains. Found by our guide Maurits

CAPRIMULGIDAE

Large-tailed Nightjar Caprimulgus macrurus ssp.schlegelii
On 30-07 1 ex on Waigeo. Also heard every night on Waigeo.
On 25-08 1 ex on Biak.

HEMIPROCNIDAE

Moustached Tree Swift Hemiprocne mystacea
On 28-07 2 exx in the Sorong Lowlands.
A total of 5 birds on 2 dates on Waigeo.
On 21-08 2 exx on Numfor and on 24-08 2 along the Sepse Rd. on Biak.

APODIDAE

Uniform Swiftlet Collocalia vanikorensis
Recorded on 12 dates in Lowland areas.
Sorong Lowlands, Waigeo (ssp. waiguensis), Nimbokrang (ssp.yorkii) and daily on Biak (ssp.steini).

Mountain Swiftlet Collocalia hirundinacea ssp.exelsus - NE
Small numbers on 4 dates in the Snow Mountains.

Glossy Swiftlet (White-bellied Swiftlet) Collocalia esculenta
Recorded throughout the trip.
Arfak and Snow Mountains  ssp.erwini, Waigeo ssp.amethystina, Sorong and Nimbokrang  ssp.nitens, Biak ssp not known yet maybe ssp.numforensis

Papuan Spine-tailed Swift (Papuan Needletail) Mearnsia novaeguineae ssp.buergersi- NE
On 28-07 1 and on 29-07 10 exx in the Sorong Lowlands.
On 10-08 2-3 exx. near Nimbokrang.

ALCEDINIDAE

Common Paradise Kingfisher Tanysiptera galatea
Heard daily on Waigeo and 4 seen on 31-07.
On 10-08 3 exx heard at Nimbokrang.

Red-breasted Paradise Kingfisher Tanysiptera nympha - NE
On 29-07 fantastic views of 1 bird in Sorong Lowlands. At least 2 more were heard.

Biak Paradise Kingfisher Tanysiptera riedelii - NE
Heard on 5 dates on Biak and a total of 9 exx seen on 4 dates.
It is treated as “Near-Threatened” in BirdLife International’s ‘Threatened Birds of the World’.

Numfor Paradise Kingfisher Tanysiptera carolinae NE
A total of 5 seen on 2 dates. Great views of this gorgeous endemic Kingfisher.
One of the highlights of the trip.
It is treated as “Near-Threatened” in BirdLife International’s ‘Threatened Birds of the World’.

Hook-billed Kingfisher Melidora macrorrhina NE
Heard on 3 dates on Waigeo and on 02-08 2 exx seen near our camp. ssp.waguensis
Heard from our hotel in Manokwari.
Heard on 3 dates in the Nimbokrang area. This is ssp.jobiensis

Variable Dwarf Kingfisher Ceyx lepidus
Only poor flight views of most likely this species on 10-08 in the Nimbokrang area.

Rufous-bellied Kookaburra Dacelo gaudichaud NE
Recorded on 10 dates. Some great views.

Blue-black Kingfisher (Black-sided Kingfisher) Halcyon nigrocyanea ssp.quadricolor NE
On our way to our camp in the Nimbokrang area on 10-08, we observed a pair which was very responsive to the tape. Also heard on 2 other dates in the Nimbokrang area.

Sacred Kingfisher Halcyon sancta
Scattered small numbers in all open lowland habitats.
Up to ten daily on Biak and Numfor.

Beach Kingfisher Halcyon saurophaga
On 03-08 2 exx on Waigeo and also 2 exx on Pulau Wai.

Yellow-billed Kingfisher Halcyon torotoro
On 29-07 heard in the Sorong Lowlands.
Heard on 4 dates on Waigeo and on 02-08 1 ex was actually seen.
Heard on 2 dates in the Nimbokrang area and on 10-08 1 ex gave good views.

Mountain Kingfisher Halcyon megarhynchus - NE
On 17-08 heard in the Snow Mountains.

Azure Kingfisher Alcedo azurea ssp.lessonii
A total of 4 exx on 3 dates on Waigeo.
On 11-08 heard in the Nimbokrang area

Blue-tailed Bee-eater Merops philippinus
On 04-08 12-15 exx in the Sorong Lowlands
On 18-08 a group of 20 near Lake Sentani.
A very localised resident in New Guinea lowland savannas.

Rainbow Bee-eater Merops ornatus
On 04-08 4 exx near Sorong and 1 ex near Manokwari.
A total of 15 on 3 dates around Nimbokrang.
On 18-08 a few near Lake Sentani.
Also daily a few on Numfor and Biak. On 25-08 a group of no less then 35 on Biak.
This species only breeds in Australia but migrates north to New Guinea and
central Indonesia.

CORACIIDAE

Dollarbird Eurystomus orientalis
Observed in most lowland areas.

BUCEROTIDAE

Blyth’s Hornbill (Papuan Hornbill) Rhyticeros plicatus
Observed on 13 dates.
Up to 10 exx daily in lowland areas like Sorong Lowlands, Waigeo, Manokwari and the Nimbokrang area. Also a single pair on 06-08 in the Arfaks.

PITTIDAE

Blue-breasted Pitta (Red-bellied Pitta) Pitta erythrogaster ssp.maklotii
Heard in the Sorong Lowlands on 2 dates.
4 exx seen on 3 dates on Waigeo.

Hooded Pitta Pitta sordida ssp.novaguinea
On 29-07 heard Sorong Lowlands.
Heard on Numfor (ssp.mefoorana) and on 4 dates on Biak and single birds seen on 3 dates (ssp.rosenbergii).

HIRUNDINIDAE

Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica
On 04-08 3 exx Sorong Lowlands

Pacific Swallow Hirundo tahitica ssp.frontalis
Common Sorong lowlands, near Manokwari and small numbers on Biak.
Groups of 80-100 exx seen above the grasslands near the airport on Biak.

MOTACILLIDAE

Alpine Pipit Anthus gutturalis ssp.wollastoni NE
A total of 7 exx on 3 dates in the Snow Mountains.
A typical display of this species was observed on 16-08. The bird threw his head completely backwards while singing from a branch.

CAMPEPHAGIDAE

Hooded Cuckoo-Shrike Coracina longicauda - NE
On 17-08 a female was seen in The Snow Mountains, when travelling down to Wamena

White-bellied Cuckoo-Shrike Coracina papuensis
Single birds on 2 dates in the Nimbokrang area.

Boyer’s Cuckoo-Shrike Coracina boyeri - NE
A total of 7 exx on 2 dates in the Sorong Lowlands.
On 04-08 1 pair near Manokwari.
A total of 9 exx on 3 dates in the Nimbokrang area.

Cicadabird (Common C / Slender-billed C) Coracina tenuirostris
Heard on 2 dates on Waigeo. (ssp.nehrkorni)
On 10-08 1 female near Nimbokrang. (ssp.muellerii)
A total of 7 exx on 3 dates on Biak (ssp. meyeri ) and another 2 exx on Numfor.
This is ssp.numforana

Grey-headed Cuckoo-Shrike Coracina schisticeps - NE
On 29-07 1 pair Sorong Lowlands.

Black Cuckoo-Shrike (New Guinea Cuckoo-Shrike) Coracina melaena ssp.melasNE
A total of 4 exx on 2 dates in the Nimbokrang area.

Black-bellied Cuckoo-Shrike Coracina Montana - NE
On 17-08 3 exx Snow Mountains.

Black-browed Triller Lalage atrovirens  - NE
Regularly seen and heard in the lowlands.
The subspecies leucoptera on Biak is distinguished by the unbarred females.

PYCNONOTIDAE

Sooty-headed Bulbul Pycnonotus aurigaster
A few daily on Biak. An introduced species on Biak.

TURDIDAE

Pied Chat (Pied Bushchat) Saxicola caprata
A few recorded near Sorong.
During our visit to Lake Sentani we recorded between 3 to 4 exx This is ssp.aethiops
On 17-08 we observed 3 exx near Wamena. Ssp. belensis.

Island Thrush Turdus poliocephalus: Common in the grasslands and along the tree line near Lake Habbema. The race versteegi is restricted to the Snow Mountains.

Russet-tailed Thrush Zoothera heinei papuensis
On 08-08 1 ex gave great views in the Arfaks. (Chris)
Note: the Papuan populations maybe split as Papuan Thrush Z. papuensis

CINCLOSOMATIDAE
[Beehler lumps this family in Orthonychidae.]

Spotted Jewel-Babbler Ptilorrhoa leucosticte -  NE
On 06-08 1 was heard in the Arfaks.

Blue Jewel-Babbler Ptilorrhoa caerulescens ssp.neumanni - NE
On 11-08 1 ex was seen and another was heard on 13-08 in the Nimbokrang area.

INCERTAESEDIS

Lesser Melampitta Melampitta lugubris ssp.longicauda - NE
On 16-08 great views of 1 ex which showed itself brilliantly on a log in the Upper-Ibele valley.

POMATOSTOMIDAE

Rufous Babbler (New Guinea Babbler) Pomatostomus isidorei ssp.calidus - NE
Small flocks on 2 dates in the Nimbokrang area. The second group contained of 8 birds.
Both times a Pale-billed Sicklebill accompanied the flock.

SYLVIIDAE

Papuan Grassbird (Papuan Grass Warbler) Megalurus papuensis - NE
A total of 4 exx on 3 dates around Lake Habbema.
This species occurs only in the highlands.

Tawny Grassbird megalurus timoriensis
On 09-08 1 ex Lake Sentani.
Note: megalurus macrurus for the enlarged species.

Golden-headed Cisticola (Bright-capped Cisticola) Cisticola exilis ssp.diminutus
On 09-08 5 exx in the grasslands near Lake Sentani.
On 13-08 at least 1 ex in the cultivated area near Nimbokrang.
On 18-08 2 exx in the same area.

Island Leaf Warbler Phylloscopus poliocephala
A total of 11 exx on 2 dates in the Arfaks.
On 17-08 a single bird in the Snow Mountains. This is ssp.giulianettii

MALURIDAE

Emperor Fairy-wren Malurus cyanocephalus - NE
On 29-07 heard and 1 male was seen in the Sorong Lowlands.
On 20-08 5 exx and 6 exx on 2 dates on Biak. Ssp.mysoriensis

White-shouldered Fairy-wren Malurus alboscapulatus - NE
On 10-08 2 exx and on 13-08 1 ex Nimbokrang. Ssp.aida
On 17-08 2 exx near Wamena. Ssp.lorentzi

Orange-crowned Fairy-wren Clytomyias insignis ssp.oorti - NE
On 17-08 3 exx in the Snow Mountains.

ACANTHIZIDAE

Rusty Mouse-Warbler Crateroscelis murina ssp.capitalis - NE
Heard and at least 5 exx seen daily on Waigeo.
Heard on 4 dates in the Arfaks and on 05-08 3 exx seen.

Mountain Mouse-Warbler Crateroscelis robusta - NE
On 08-08 1 ex Arfaks. Ssp.peninsularis
A total of 6 exx on 3 dates in the Snow Mountains. Ssp.sanfordi

Large Scrub-wren Sericornis nouhuysi - NE
A total of 14 exx on 3 dates in the Snow Mountains.

Buff-faced Scrub-wren Sericornis perspicillatus - NE
On 17-08 at least 3 exx seen lower down in the Snow Mountains.

Vogelkop Scrub-wren Sericornis rufescens - NE
Up to 10 exx daily in the Arfaks.

Papuan Scrub-wren Sericornis papuensis ssp.buergersi - NE
On 17-08 2 exx in the Snow Mountains.

Grey-green Scrub-wren Sericornis arfakianus - NE
On 06-08 3 exx in the Arfaks.

New Guinea Thornbill (Papuan Thornbill) Acanthiza murina - NE
On 2 dates a small flock of 4 to 7 exx in the scrub near Lake Habbema.

Mountain (Grey) Gerygone Gerygone cinerea - NE
A total of 5 exx on 2 dates in the Arfaks.
On 17-08 3 exx lower areas of the Snow Mountains.

Yellow-bellied Gerygone Gerygone chrysogaster - NE
A total of 14 exx on 3 dates on Waigeo. Ssp.neglecta
Daily 2 to 3 exx in the Nimbokrang area. Ssp.chrysogaster
Note: The ssp neglecta on Waigeo has been proposed as a
split (Waigeo Gerygone), but its song does not sound different

Green-backed Gerygone Gerygone chloronotus - NE
Heard only on Waigeo on 1 date.

Fairy Gerygone Gerygone palpebrosa
On 31-07 2 exx on Waigeo.
A total of 3 exx on 2 dates near Nimbokrang. Ssp.wahnesi

Biak Gerygone Gerygone hypoxantha - NE
A total of 5 exx on 3 dates near Makmakerbo on Biak. Always in mixed flocks.

Large-billed Gerygone Gerygone magnirostris
3 exx seen on 2 dates on Waigeo. Ssp.cobana
On 10 and 11-08 a single bird Nimbokrang. Ssp.affinis

Brown-breasted Gerygone Gerygone ruficollis - NE
Daily observed in the Arfaks. A total of 15 exx on 4 dates.
On 17-08 a single lower down in the Snow Mountains. Ssp.insperata

RHIPIDURIDAE

Sooty Thicket-fantail Rhipidura threnothorax - NE
Heard on 4 dates in the Nimbokrang area and 4 exx seen on 2 dates.
Excellent views of this notorious skulker.

White-bellied Thicket-fantail Rhipidura leucothorax-  NE
On 29-07 1 ex in the Sorong Lowlands.
Single birds on 2 dates in the Nimbokrang area.

Dimorphic Fantail Rhipidura brachyrhyncha - NE
A total of 4 exx on 3 dates in the Arfaks. Ssp.brachyrhyncha
On 16-08 1 e and on 17-08 6 exx in the Snow Mountains. Ssp.devisi

Black Fantail Rhipidura atra - NE
Common in the Arfaks. 30 exx on 4 dates.
On 17-08 1 ex in the Snow Mountains.

Arafura Fantail Dryas squamata - NE
A total of 10 exx on 03-08 on Pulau Wai.

Rufous-backed Fantail Rhipidura rufidorsa - NE
On 13-08 1 ex Nimbokrang.
More exx of this canopy dweller were heard

Friendly Fantail Rhipidura albolimbata - NE
Common in the Arfaks (ssp.albolimbata)and the Snow Mountains (ssp.lorentzi).

Northern Fantail Rhipidura rufiventris
A total of 8 exx on 3 dates on Waigeo and a total of 9 exx on 3 dates in the Nimbokrang area. Ssp. gularis
Also a few on 2 dates on Biak. Ssp.kordensis

Willie Wagtail (White-browed Fantail) Rhipidura leucophrys ssp.melaleuca
A few near Sorong.
On 30-07 a pair near the river on Waigeo.
On 03-08 3 exx on Pulau Wai.
At least 10 near Lake Sentani and a few near Nimbokrang village.
Daily recorded on Biak and on Numfor a few.

MYIAGRIDAE

Rufous Monarch Monarcha rubiensis - NE
On 11-08 1 ex observed in the swamp forest near our camp at Nimbokrang.
Again heard in the same area on 13-08.

Black-winged Monarch Monarcha frater - NE
On 05-08 1 ex. Arfaks.

Spot-winged Monarch Monarcha guttula - NE
Single birds on 3 dates on Waigeo.
A total of 4 exx on 2 dates in the Nimbokrang area.

Hooded Monarch Monarcha manadensis - NE
A total of 3 exx on 2 dates in the Nimbokrang area.

Biak Monarch Monarcha brehmii - NE
On 23-08 1 male in the Makmakerbo area on Biak.
On 24-08 2 males in a flock in the same area. Only seen in mixed flocks.
A third bird with a white throat was also seen in the same flock, possibly an immature bird. Not much is known about the difference in plumage of female and immature birds of this species.
This species is “critical endangered” according to “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Golden Monarch Monarcha chrysomela ssp melanonotus
A total of 5 exx on 2 dates on Waigeo.
Also heard in the Sorong lowlands and near Nimbokrang.

Golden Monarch Monarcha chrysomela ssp. kordensis.
A total of 13 exx on 4 dates on Biak.
Some authors split this species as Biak Golden Monarch Monarcha kordensis - NE

Frilled Monarch Arses telescopthalmus ssp.batantae - NE
A total of 3 exx on 2 dates on Waigeo.

Rufous-collared Monarch Arses insularis - NE
A total of 12 exx on 3 dates in the Nimbokrang area.
Recent split from preceding species.

Biak Black Flycatcher (Biak Flycatcher) Myiagra atra - NE
Up to 4 exx daily on Biak.
Also 1 ex on 22-08 on Numfor.
This species is “Near Threatened” according to “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Shining Flycatcher (Shining Monarch) Myiagra alecto ssp.chalybeocephalus
A few seen in the Sorong Lowlands and on Waigeo.
On 10-08 10 exx near Nimbokrang
On 22-08 a female on Numfor and a male with four females by Makmakerbo on 24-08 on Biak.

MACHAERIRHYNCHIDAE
[Beehler lumps this family in Monarchidae.]

Yellow-breasted Boatbill Machaerirhynchus flaviventer
On 31-07 1 male and on 02-08 1 pair on Waigeo. Ssp.albifrons
On 11-08 1 male at Nimbokrang. Ssp. albigula

Black-breasted Boatbill Machaerirhynchus nigripectus -  NE
A total of 11 exx on 4 dates in the Arfaks.
On 17-08 1 ex Snow Mountains. Ssp.saturatus

PETROICIDAE
[Beehler uses the name Eopsaltriidae for this family.]

Olive Flycatcher (Olive Flyrobin) Microeca flavovirescens ssp.cuicui
On 31-07 excellent views of 1 ex on Waigeo.
On 11-08 1 ex.at Nimbokrang,

Canary Flycatcher (Canary Flyrobin) Microeca papuana - NE
A total of 14 exx on 3 dates in the Arfaks.
On 17-08 4 exx in the Snow Mountains.

White-faced Robin Tregellasia leucops
On 05-08 1 ex in the Arfaks.

Garnet Robin Eugerygone rubra - NE
A total of 4 exx on 2 dates in the Arfaks.
Some great views.

Mountain Robin (Alpine Robin) Petroica bivittata ssp.caudata - NE
A total of 10 exx.on 2 dates in the Snow Mountains.
Best views of 2 exx on 16-08 near the pass at 3500 m.
 A localised high montane endemic.

Ashy Robin Poecilodryas albispecularis - NE
On 08-08 1 ex. seen well. At least 2 more heard.
This is the grey-headed subspecies albispecularis, which occurs only in the Vogelkop area. If split this is Grey-headed Robin Poecilodryas albispecularis

Black-sided Robin Poecilodryas hypoleuca ssp.steini - NE
Heard on 3 dates on Waigeo and twice a single bird was seen.

Black-throated Robin Poecilodryas albonotata - NE
On 08-08 1 ex at 2000m in the Arfaks.
On 17-08 3 exx in the Snow Mountains. More birds were heard on the same date. Ssp.griseiventris

Northern Scrub-Robin Drymodes superciliaris ssp. beccarii - NE
On 05-08 heard in the lower part of the Arfaks.

Lesser Ground-Robin Amalocichla incerta - NE
A total of 5 exx on 2 dates in the Arfaks.

White-winged Robin Peneothello sigillatus ssp.quadrimaculata - NE
A total of 4 exx on 2 dates in the Snow Mountains.
Birds in West Papua have additional white patches in the wing.

Smoky Robin Peneothello cryptoleucus - NE
On 06-08 at least 3 exx seen in the Arfaks. Also heard on 08-08.

Blue-grey Robin (Slaty Robin) Peneothello cyanus - NE
A total of 10 exx on 4 dates in the Arfaks.
A pair of this species was seen daily near our hut.

Green-backed Robin Pachycephalopsis hattamensis - NE
A total of 7 exx on 2 dates in the Arfaks. A few seen very well.

PACHYCEPHALIDAE

Dwarf Whistler (Goldenface, Pachycare) Pachycare flavogriseum - NE
Nice views of a single bird on 05-08 in the Arfaks.

Mottled Whistler Pachycephala leucostigma - NE
Single birds seen on 2 dates in the Arfaks.

Common Golden Whistler (Golden Whistler) Pachycephala pectoralis.
On 17-08 1 ex was seen in the lower part of the Snow Mountains.
This is the subspecies balim, restricted to a few valleys in the West Papuan highlands.

Sclater’s Whistler Pachycephala soror - NE
A total of 11 exx on 4 dates in the Arfaks.
On 17-08 a single bird in the Snow Mountains. Ssp. klossi

Regent Whistler Pachycephala schlegelii - NE
A total of 8 exx on 3 dates in the Arfaks.

Lorentz’s Whistler Pachycephala lorentzi - NE
A total of 7 exx on 3 datesin  the Snow Mountains.

Vogelkop Whistler Pachycephala meyeri - NE
Only 1 bird identified during our stay in the Arfaks. On 05-08 along trail to Mag.Bop hide.

Grey (headed) Whistler Pachycephala griseiceps
On 29-07 1 ex in the Sorong lowlands.
A total of 7 exx on 3 dates on Waigeo. Ssp.waiguensis
On 11-08 3 exx near Nimbokrang. Ssp.jobiensis

Island Whistler Pachycephala phaionotus
On 03-08 5 exx on Pulau Wai.

Rufous-naped Whistler Pachycephala rufinucha - NE
A total of 4 exx on 2 dates in the Arfaks.
A total of 3 exx on 2 dates in the Snow Mountains. Ssp.niveifrons

Little Shrike-Thrush Colluricincla megarhyncha ssp.affinis
A total of 9 exx on 2 dates on Waigeo.

Variable Pitohui Pitohui kirhocephalus ssp.cerviniventris - NE
On 31-07 3 exx on Waigeo.

Rusty Pitohui Pitohui ferrugineus - NE
A total of 10 exx on 2 dates on Waigeo. Ssp.leucorhynchus
Flocks were commonly encountered near our camp in the Nimbokrang area.
A total of 34 exx on 3 dates. Ssp.holerythrus

Black Pitohui Pitohui nigrescens - NE
Heard on 4 dates in the Arfaks and on 07-08 a single bird was finally seen.

CLIMACTERIDAE

Papuan Treecreeper Cormobates placens - NE
A total of 4 exx on 3 dates in the Arfaks.
On 17-08 3 exx in the Snow Mountains. Ssp.inexpectata

NEOSITTIDAE

Black Sittella Daphoenositta Miranda ssp. frontalis- NE
On 16-08 a flock of 15 in the Snow Mountains.

MELANOCHARITIDAE

Black Berrypecker Melanocharis nigra ssp.pallida - NE
A total of 19 exx on 4 dates on Waigeo.

Mid-mountain Berrypecker Melanocharis longicauda-  NE
A total of 8 exx on 3 dates in the Arfaks.
DICAEIDAE

Red-capped Flowerpecker Dicaeum geelvinkianum - NE
On 17-08 3 exx near Wamena. Ssp. centrale
Common on Biak (ssp. misoriense) and Numfor (ssp.maforense).

Olive-crowned Flowerpecker Dicaeum pectorale - NE
Common on Waigeo and a few daily in the Arfaks.

PARAMYTHIIDAE

Crested Berrypecker Paramythia montium ssp.olivacea - NE
A total of 13 exx on 3 dates in the Snow Mountains.

NECTARINIIDAE

Black Sunbird Leptocoma (Nectarinia) aspasia
Common in the lowlands
Waigeo ssp cochrani
Sorong,Manokwari,Nimbokrang ssp sericea
Biak ssp mysorensis
Numfor ssp maforensis

Yellow-bellied Sunbird (Olive-backed Sunbird) Cynnyris jugularis
Less common then previous species.
Birds seen in Nimbokrang and Sentani idenburgi; elsewhere frenatus

ZOSTEROPIDAE

Lemon-bellied White-eye Zosterops chloris
On 03-08 5 exx on Pulau Wai.

Black-fronted White-eye Zosterops minor ssp.chrysolaemus - NE
On 05-08 5 exx in the Arfaks

Biak White-eye Zosterops mysorensis - NE
A total of 5 exx on 2 dates on Biak.
We initially struggled to find this species but we eventually found it in heavily degraded forest/scrub. Endemic to Biak but probably under no threat as it is a species of heavily degraded habitats.
It is “Near Threatened” according to “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Western (Capped) Mountain White-eye Zosterops fuscicapillus - NE
Up to 10 exx daily in the Arfaks.
On 17-08 20+ in the Snow Mountains.

MELIPHAGIDAE

Long-billed Honeyeater Melilestes megarhynchus - NE
A total of 5 exx on 3 dates on Waigeo. Ssp. vagans
On 11-08 a pair near Nimbokrang. Ssp. stresemanni

Yellow-bellied Longbill Toxorhamphus novaeguineae - NE
On 05-08 1 ex. in the Arfaks.

Dwarf Honeyeater (Plumed/Dwarf Longbill) Oedistoma iliolophus - NE
A total of 3 exx on 2 dates in the Arfaks. Ssp.affine
A total of 3 exx on 2 dates in the Nimbokrang area.

Pygmy Honeyeater (Pygmy Longbill) Oedistoma pygmaeum - NE
On 11-08 2 single birds near Nimbokrang.

Green-backed Honeyeater Glycichaera fallax ssp.pallida
A total of 4 exx on 3 dates on Waigeo.
On 06-08 3 exx Arfaks.

Brown-backed Honeyeater Ramsayornis modestus
Common on 04-08 near Sorong.

Olive Honeyeater Lichmera argentauris
On 03-08 common on Pulau Wai

Red-throated Myzomela Myzomela eques - NE
On 30-07 1 pair on Waigeo.

Dusky Myzomela Myzomela obscura ssp.rubrobrunnea
On 20-08 and 24-08 1 ex on Biak

Red-collared Myzomela Myzomela rosenbergi - NE
Common at high altitudes around Lake Habbema and in the Arfaks.

Mountain Red-headed Myzomela Myzomela adolphinae - NE
On 5-08 1 ex by the roadside in the Arfaks when we stopped because one of the cars had broken down.

Scrub White-eared Meliphaga Meliphaga albonotata - NE
On 09-08 5 exx in scrub near Manokwari.
On 10-08 4 exx in the open country at Nimbokrang.

Puff-backed Meliphaga Meliphaga aruensis - NE
On 29-07 1 ex in the Sorong Lowlands.
A total of 12 exx on 4 dates on Waigeo.

Mimic Meliphaga Meliphaga analoga - NE
Only 4 birds on 2 dates on Waigeo and 2 in the Nimbokrang area (ssp. flavida) on 10-08.

Yellow-gaped Honeyeater Meliphaga flavirictus ssp crockettorum.- NE
Single birds on 2 dates in the Nimbokrang area.

Varied Honeyeater Lichenostomus versicolor ssp.sonoroides
On 04-08 most likely heard near Sorong.
On 03-08 10+ on Pulau Wai.

Black-throated Honeyeater Lichenostomus subfrenatus - NE
On 14-08 2 exx. Lake Habbema area.

Orange-cheeked Honeyeater Lichenostomus chrysogenys - NE
Up to 20 seen each day in tree-line scrub around Lake Habbema.
This large bulky honeyeater is endemic to the Snow Mountains.

Spotted Honeyeater Xanthotis polygramma - NE
On 31-07 2 exx on Waigeo. Elsewhere a rather scarce hill-forest species.

Tawny-breasted Honeyeater Xanthotis flaviventer - NE
A total of 4 exx on Waigeo. Ssp.fusciventris
A total of 4 exx on 2 dates in the Nimbokrang area. Ssp.philemon

Plain Honeyeater Pycnopygius ixoides ssp.proximus - NE
A total of 4 exx on 4 dates in the Nimbokrang area.

Marbled Honeyeater Pycnopygius cinereus ssp.marmoratus - NE
On 06-08 1 ex in the Arfaks.
On 17-08 1 ex in the lower part of the Snow Mountains.

Streak-headed Honeyeater Pycnopygius stictocephalus - NE
A single bird on 10-08 near Nimbokrang was our only observation.

Meyer’s Friarbird Philemon meyeri - NE
On 10-08 1 ex. near Nimbokrang.

New Guinea Friarbird Philemon novaeguineae - NE
On 29-07 10+ in the Sorong Lowlands.
A total of 12 exx on 2 dates on Waigeo.
On 04-08 1 ex near Sorong.
On 09-08 15 around Lake Sentani.
On 10-08 and 13-08 up to 6 exx near Nimbokrang.

Rufous-sided Honeyeater Ptiloprora erythropleura - NE
A total of 10 exx on 2 dates in the Arfaks.

Grey-streaked Honeyeater (Black-backed Honeyeater)Ptiloprora perstriata - NE
A total of 13 exx on 4 dates in the area around Lake Habbema, Snow Mountains.

Sooty Melidectes Melidectes fuscus ssp.ocidentalis - NE
A total of 6 exx on 3 dates around Lake Habbema. It took some time before we all had satisfying views of this unobtrusive species.

Short-bearded Melidectes Melidectes nouhuysi - NE
A total of 20 exx on 4 dates in the area around Lake Habbema.

Cinnamon-browed Melidectes Melidectes ochromelas - NE
Several small groups were heard calling in the higher parts of the Arfaks.
Although large and noisy, only 1 bird was seen well on 08-08. (at least by me)

Vogelkop Melidectes Melidectes leucostephes - NE
Excellent views of this attractive Vogelkop endemic.
A total of 24 exx on 4 dates in the Arfaks.

Belford’s Melidectes Melidectes belfordi ssp.kinneari - NE
Daily and commonly recorded in the Snow Mountains.

Ornate Melidectes Melidectes torquatus - NE
On 07-08 3 exx in the Arfaks.
On 17-08 1 ex. lower part of the Snow Mountains. Ssp.mixtus

Western Smoky Honeyeater Melipotes gymnops - NE
Up to 10 exx daily in the Arfaks.

Common Smoky Honeyeater Melipotes fumigatus ssp.goliathi - NE
On 16-08 2 exx and on 17-08 10 exx in the Snow Mountains.

ESTRILDIDAE

Streak-headed Mannikin Lonchura tristissima ssp. calaminoros - NE
On 10-08 30 exx and on 13-08 50 exx in the fields near the village of Nimbokrang.

Grand Mannikin Lonchura grandis ssp.distructa - NE
On 09-08 150 exx at Lake Sentani and on 18-08 40 exx.

Hooded Mannikin Lonchura spectabilis ssp.mayri - NE
On 09-08 and 18-08 20 exx at lake Sentani.

Black-breasted Mannikin Lonchura teerinki - NE
On 14-08 2 exx briefly seen on our way up to Lake Habbema.
On 17-08 just before dusk we found a flock of 35 exx, close to Wamena.

Western Alpine Mannikin (Snow Mountain Munia) Lonchura Montana - NE
On 15-08 15 exx between Lake Habema and Pondok Tiga.
On 17-08 10 exx on our way down to Wamena.

Chestnut-breasted Mannikin Lonchura castaneothorax sharpii
A few on 9- and 18-08 at Lake Sentani

Mountail Firetail Oreostruthus fuliginosus ssp.pallidus - NE
On 15 and 16-08 2 exx near Pondok Tiga, Snow Mountains.

Crimson Finch Neochmia phaeton
During both our visits to Lake Sentani we observed a pair.

PASSERIDAE

Eurasian Tree Sparrow Passer montanus: Widespread in towns and around airports.

STURNIDAE

Long-tailed Starling Aplonis magna - NE
Very common on Numfor (ssp.brevicauda) and Biak (ssp.magna).

Metallic Starling (Shining Starling) Aplonis metallica
Up to 40 exx daily in the Sorong Lowlands.
On 11-08 2 exx near Nimbokrang. Ssp.metallica
Common on Biak and Numfor. Ssp.inornata

Golden Myna Mino anais ssp.orientalis - NE
On 11-08 1 pair in the Nimbokrang area.

Yellow-faced Myna Mino dumontii
A total of 6 on 2 dates in the Sorong Lowlands.
On 04-08 3 exx. near Sorong.
A total of 10 exx on 3 dates in the Nimbokrang area.

ORIOLIDAE

Brown Oriole Oriolus szalayi - NE
Heard on 2 dates on Waigeo and actually seen near our camp on 01 and 02-08.
Also heard on 4 dates in the Nimbokrang area.

DICRURIDAE

Mountain (Pygmy) Drongo Chaetorhynchus papuensis - NE
A splendid observation of 1 bird in the Arfaks on 07-08.

Spangled Drongo Dicrurus bracteatus ssp.carbonarius
Fairly common in the lowlands.
Note: Gregory mention this as a possible split: Papuan Drongo Dicrurus carbonarius

ARTAMIDAE

Great Woodswallow Artamus maximus - NE
On 17-08 2 exx when descending to Wamena.

CRACTICIDAE

Hooded Butcherbird Cracticus cassicus - NE
Commonly recorded on Waigeo, in lowland sites around Sorong, 4 exx near Manokwari on 04-08 but only heard at Nimbokrang.
Very common on Biak and Numfor.

Black Butcherbird Cracticus quoyi
On 10-08 2 exx near Nimbokrang.

Lowland Peltops Peltops blainvillii - NE
On 12-08 1 ex at Nimbokrang.

[Mountain Peltops Peltops montanus] - NE
On 03-08 most likely this species seen in flight in the Arfaks.

PTILONORHYNCHIDAE

White-eared Catbird Ailuroedus buccoides - NE
On 31-07 1 ex was briefly seen from the Wilson’s BOP hide on Waigeo.
A single bird regularly visited a fruiting tree near our camp on Waigeo.
This bird was seen on 4 days and gave brief but good views.

Spotted Catbird Ailuroedus melanotis ssp.arfakianus
Heard on 3 dates in the Arfaks.

Archbold’s Bowerbird Archboldia papuensis - NE
On 16-08 1 ex was seen along the trail in the upper Ibele Valley, Snow Mountains.
In HBW this species is lumped again in Sanford’s Bowerbird

Vogelkop Bowerbird Amblyornis inornatus - NE
Singles seen and heard most days in the Arfaks, but the bowers were by far the most impressive aspect of this bird. Since I saw this on David Attenboraugh DVD, I knew I had to see this myself, which must be one of the best creations of any bird, and one of the ornithological wonders of the world.

Fawn-breasted Bowerbird Chlamydera cerviniventris
On 09-08 2 birds Lake Sentani grasslands.

PARADISAEIDAE

Crested Bird of Paradise Cnemophilus macgregorii - NE
On 15-08 a male flew over the road, close to Pondok Tiga, Snow Mountains.
On 16-08 a female along the Yabogema trail.

Macgregor’s Bird of Paradise Macgregoria pulchra ssp.carolinae- NE
On our first afternoon walk along Lake Habbema, we had great views of 2 birds. Another highlight of this trip.
We observed a total of 5 exx on 3 dates in the upper reaches of the Snow Mountains.
It is considered “Vulnerable” by “Threatened Birds of the World”
Note: Recent research involving this species suggests that this genus is better considered a honeyeater rather than a bird of paradise.

Glossy-mantled Manucode Manucodia atra - NE
Daily up to 4 exx on Waigeo. Ssp.subalter
On 04-08 2 exx near Sorong.
On 09-08 1 ex near Nimbokrang.
On 10-08 1 ex. at Nimbokrang.

Jobi Manucode Manucodia jobiensis - NE
Single birds on 3 dates in the Nimbokrang area.

Trumpet Manucode Manucodia keraudremii - NE
On 29-07 2 exx in the Sorong Lowlands.

Twelve-wired Bird of Paradise Seleucidis melanoleuca - NE
On 29-07 2exx and 2 exx in the Sorong Lowlands.
On 04-08 1 ex near Sorong.

Pale-billed Sicklebill Epimachus bruijnii - NE
Single birds were seen on 3 dates in the Nimbokrang area.
We heard the species regularly but we struggled to obtain reasonable views.
It is “Near Threatened” according to “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Black Sicklebill Epimachus fastuosus - NE
This species was heard on 2 dates in the upper regions of the Arfaks.
On 08-08 at least 3 different birds were heard but only a few of us had fleeting glimpses.
It is considered “Vulnerable” by “Threatened Birds of the World”

Splendid Astrapia Astrapia splendidissima ssp.helios - NE
On 14-08 great views of a pair near Lake Habbema.

Superb Bird of Paradise Lophorina superba-  NE
On 05-08 we heard one and a male was seen near our camp in the Arfaks on 07-08.

Western Parotia Parotia sefilata - NE
We saw 3 to 4 female birds and an imm. male along the road in the Arfaks on 07-08.
Unfortunately, despite several visits to the hide, we never witnessed an adult male doing its full display.

King of Saxony Bird of Paradise Pteridophora alberti-  NE
A female-plumaged bird on 17-08 in the lower reaches of the Snow Mountains.

King Bird of Paradise Cicinnurus regius - NE
On 29-07 2 female-plumaged birds in the Sorong Lowlands.
The next day a bird was heard on Waigeo.
A total of 3 males were seen on 2 dates in the Nimbokrang area. Ssp.cocineifrons

Magnificent Bird of Paradise Cicinnurus magnificus - NE
On 05-08 good views of 2 males at 2 display arenas in the Arfaks.
Also 4 females were seen.

Wilson’s Bird of Paradise Cicinnurus respublica - NE
During 6 visits to the hide on Waigeo, a male of this species was seen and once 2 males were present.
Three times the bird was going a full display and for me this is the most bizarre,extraordinary bird I have ever seen. We also saw another ♂ along a trail.
It is “Near Threatened” according to “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Lesser Bird of Paradise Paradisaea minor - NE
On 05-08 heard and 1 ♂ seen in the Arfaks.
On 2 dates heard in the Nimbokrang area and on 11-08 15 birds in a display tree, where 5 to 6 males gave a fantastic show.

Red Bird of Paradise Paradisaea rubra - NE
On 31-07 4 adult males at a display site on Waigeo.
Female-plumaged birds and imm. males regularly visited a fruiting tree near our camp site on Waigeo.
It is “Near Threatened” according to “Threatened Birds of the World”.

CORVIDAE

Brown-headed Crow Corvus fuscicapillus ssp.megarhynchus - NE
Surprisingly common on Waigeo. Mostly heard but a few seen very well.
A juvenile bird fed by an adult showed pale underparts and a pink bill and face, thus bearing a remarkable resemblance to a Grey Crow (which does not occur on Waigeo).
Also heard in the Nimbokrang area on 2 dates and 1 ex seen on 13-08.
It is “Near Threatened” according to “Threatened Birds of the World”.

Grey Crow (Bare-eyed Crow) Corvus tristis - NE
On 04-08 3 exx near Sorong.
On 10-08 10 exx. near Nimbokrang and on 14-08 2 exx.

Torresian Crow (Australian Crow) Corvus orru
On 03-08 1 ex on Pulau Wai.
A few daily on Biak and Numfor.

A total of 336 species recorded