Parte UM -

Curitiba to Ubatuba

Parte DIOS -

REGUA to Itatiaia

Parte TRES -

Agulhas Negras to End

REGUA to the Itatiaia - stops 4 & 5

The Itinerary (a detailed list with links to the destinations and bird lists is at the end)

The next leg took us to a place called Guapiacu (gua-pee-ah-sue) and a key restoration area of the forest called REGUA

While walking on the trail through the wetlands, a Brazilian Tapir suddenly rounded the corner and headed right for me with its nose up like a dog.   So I extended my hand and it sniffed it and then moved on to my wife and sniffed her and continued to attempt a sniff the rest of the group.  It didn't mind a pet or two and stayed with the group for a good 5 minutes before losing interest and walking off the trail.  See video below.

The sign says don't approach the tapirs, but he approached us.  His name was Jupiter and he's still young and has more room to grow.

We were told by our leader that part of the restoration efforts for this area will introduce wildlife as well.  The tapirs were taken from people-friendly farms, so are used to being around and asking for food.  The following generations will become more wild - and we were told the happy news that one of their females was already pregnant.

The other tapir came up to the lodge while Monique and I were the only ones there.  It saw Mo and approached far enough to see that she had no bananas and then walked on.

We next took off further into the mountains to Itatiaia (bet you can't pronounce it).

But we first headed south to the coast to hunt for a couple endemics.

After the beach, Eduardo, took us to the Rio-Niteroi Bridge which travels just north of the Rio de Janeiro.  We were hoping to see the Christ the Redeemer statue, but a pesky cloud hung just in front of it (right side of picture).  The view of the bay and city was exciting - glad Eduardo was driving.

Praia Seca Beach - and then west past Rio...

Arrival at Itatiaia (eh-ta-shEEa)

comments: timlig@pacbell.net