PERU 2010 – Part 14: The Oxbow Lakes (Chapter 1)

Hoatzin

After our canopy tower adventure we headed of to the first of two oxbow lake boat trips. Many Hoatzins were seen, but in the heat of the day we did not see too much else… so we headed off into a shady area of the lake.

As we enjoyed the shade, one of our boatmen noticed a Fer-de-Lance nestles in the roots of a nearby tree! We chose to let him have his shade and we moved on, deciding to head back to the lodge for lunch and some relaxation after a couple of very early mornings!

Back at the lodge we enjoyed the hummingbirds around the feeders and garden as well as the puddling butterflies. A new adventure awaited for the next morning…

Horned Screamers

Another early rise and boat trip downriver took us to another trail full of birds… including a Pale-winged Trumpeter! We arrived at our second oxbow lake in time to see and hear the Horned Screamers as they arrived. My best description of their call is that they sound like a ‘herd of drunken donkeys!’

Striated Heron

Striated Herons were fairly common along the shoreline. We also enjoyed many Greater Anis, Pale-vented Pigeons, Neotropic Cormorants and Anhingas along the water’s edge.

Our skilled boatmen quietly moved us from bird to bird as we enjoyed the morning. This image was taken from the platform mounted atop the two canoes creating a pontoon boat of sorts. The platform can comfortably hold 12 people with great viewing by all!

Wattled Jaçana

This wattled Jaçana never moved as we glided passed, allowing for some great photos!

Wattled Jaçana

JUst look at those huge feet that enable it to walk easily on floating vegetation without sinking through.

Least Grebe

Least Grebes have a wide range… from southern USA south into much of South America. No matter where you find these diminutive waterfowl, they are always a treat!

Even on the floating platform, Kevin is rarely without his beloved coffee!