After being in the Amazon rain forest for several days already our guests little by little are getting deeply connected with the marvelous dynamics of this enthralling ecosystem. Today we had another early outing, this time to explore an area in the Ucayali River dominated by many palm trees. We spotted several colorful and raucous blue-and-yellow macaws (Ara ararauna). These extraordinary birds are the largest in the parrot family; they can reach thirty-three inches in length and close to three pounds in weight. The bright coloration and magnificence of these famous birds are certainly striking.
We continued exploring the area. We entered a rather small stream that gave us wonderful surprises. We observed a couple of troops of squirrel and black mantel tamarins, a very close three-toed sloth. Several birds of prey were seen as well. One of them, A black-collared hawk was seen fishing as well. Later on we went inside Belluda Caño. In this black water creek we had the thrill to find one of the most interesting monkey species of the Neotropics, the noisy owl monkeys (Aotus vociferans). A spectacular view of scarlet macaws (Ara macao) was next. It was, for me, one of the best sightings I have ever had of this iconic bird species. In our way back we were surrounded by hundreds of egrets. At one moment we felt that we were dreaming for the sighting of so many white birds all together was just surreal.
In the afternoon we had a late visit to “El Dorado” River. In this location we spotted many colorful bird species as wattled jacanas, herons, kingfishers, and hawks. The most interesting sighting was, for many, the prehistoric-looking bird species the hoatzin (Ophistocomus hoazin).
A warm tropical rain accompanied us for around half an hour reminding us that we are in one the wettest ecosystems on Earth. Equipped with rain ponchos we traveled for a while until the rain finally stopped. It was just in time for we could see the fiery oranges of an intense sunset reflected in the black water almost at dusk.
Our main goal, staying outside a little later than usual after sunset with the intention of spotting wildlife at night and enjoying the sounds of nature at night. With the aid of a powerful spotlight we found our way home after spotting a couple of caiman alligators.
At dinnertime, a happy group of guests already friends, shared the impressions and sightings of the day with me while enjoying the exquisite Peruvian cuisine served on the ship and the lively music played by our talented crew. We can hardly wait to see what new surprises the Upper Amazon will bring tomorrow to our lives.
