Canopy Walkway and Nauta Caño
An early morning departure allowed us plenty of time to explore the terra firma forest on the north bank of the Marañon River. After exiting the canoes, we quickly spotted a large lizard and a gorgeous poison dart frog, both beneath two massive trees. We then slowly made our way through the spectacular forest filled with huge buttressed trees, a maze of vines, and many understory flowers. A few Saddleback Tamarin monkeys were spotted and many birds were observed. Finally, we reached our destination: a series of walkways through the forest.
This system of suspension bridges allowed us an incredible perspective on the forest. In small groups we slowly made our way from one bridge to the next, each at a different level in the forest. We walked even with the crowns of Cercropia trees, orchids, creeping Philodendron vines, and Paradise Tanagers. The different shades of green inspired the artists amongst us. Exiting the canopy, we made our way back to a black water lagoon, where we slowly paddled across the lake. Here we enjoyed hummingbirds, river turtles, and many swallows.
After lunch, we again boarded our fleet of skiffs to explore another one of the small rivers that penetrate deep into the Pacaya-Samiria Reserve. Kingfishers and hawks lined the banks by the hundreds it seemed, and quite a few sloths were spotted. Some were curled in a ball, while others seemed to be creating new yoga poses. Squirrel monkeys were spotted, and just as the sun was setting a group of Howler Monkeys lived up to their name.
As a nearly full moon was rising, we started to head home. Night birds were abundant and active with many Common Pauraques, a Spectacled Owl, and a stick mimicking Common Potoo. Quite a few small Spectacled Caiman were also spotted, and allowed for a close approach. Part of the joy was simply enjoying the fireflies, Southern Cross, and beaming moon. As we returned to the Delfin II, we continued on down the Marañon River to the confluence with the Ucayali River, and prepared for another great day for tomorrow.
