15-5-2017 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - SPOTTED FLYCATCHER (Muscicapa striata)

The Spotted Flycatcher, Muscicapa striata, is a modestly adorned yet charming small passerine bird belonging to the Old World flycatcher family. It is a migratory species, breeding across Europe and the Palearctic as far as Siberia, and spending the winter months in Africa and southwestern Asia. Despite its widespread presence, there is concern over its decline in certain areas.

Adult Spotted Flycatchers possess grey-brown upperparts and a somewhat pallid underbelly. Their crown and breast are streaked, which is the origin of their common name. They have short, black legs and a black bill shaped to suit their insectivorous diet. Juveniles can be distinguished by their browner plumage and the presence of spots on their upperparts.

These birds favor deciduous woodlands, parks, and gardens, particularly those with open spaces amidst trees.

The Spotted Flycatcher has a broad breeding range, extending from Europe to western Siberia and northwest Africa. During the non-breeding season, they migrate to southern Africa.

With an upright posture, these flycatchers are often seen hunting from prominent perches, darting out to snatch flying insects and frequently returning to the same spot.

The call of the Spotted Flycatcher is a soft, high-pitched, and slightly descending 'tssssseeeeeppppp'.

The Spotted Flycatcher constructs an open nest in a recess, often against a wall, and is amenable to using open-fronted nest boxes. Clutches typically consist of 4-6 eggs. Remarkably, they exhibit excellent egg recognition, a likely evolutionary response to past parasitism by the common cuckoo.

The Mediterranean flycatcher, previously considered a subspecies, is similar in appearance but has been recognized as a separate species due to genetic differences.

As aerial insectivores, Spotted Flycatchers feed on flying insects, which they catch in mid-air from their vantage points.

The IUCN currently lists the Spotted Flycatcher as Least Concern, although there are noted declines in some regions of its range.

15-5-2017 BENISSA, ALICANTE - MELODIOUS WARBLER (Hippolais polyglotta)

The Melodious Warbler, known scientifically as Hippolais polyglotta, is a medium-sized member of the Old World warbler family. It measures between 12 to 13 centimeters in length, presenting a plain brown back and wings, with a more yellowish hue on the underparts. This bird is distinguished by its strong and pointed bill, as well as its brown legs. Both sexes appear identical, a common trait among warblers, while juveniles exhibit a paler belly.

When identifying the Melodious Warbler, look for its brown upper parts which are less green than those of its eastern counterpart, the Icterine Warbler. The underparts are a distinct yellowish color. Its song is a delightful babble, less varied than the Icterine's but more fluent and sustained, without mimicked sounds. Listen also for a rattling "trrrr", similar to a House Sparrow, a soft "tuk", and a chattering "chret-chet".

This species thrives in open woodlands adorned with bushes. It is also found in forest edges, thickets, riverside vegetation, orchards, and gardens, which provide ample foraging opportunities and nesting sites.

The Melodious Warbler is a migratory bird, breeding in the warmth of southwest Europe and northwest Africa, and seeking winter refuge in the sub-Saharan regions of Africa. Its breeding territories span from the Iberian Peninsula to Germany and Italy, and in North Africa, it is found from Western Sahara to Tunisia.

The Melodious Warbler exhibits typical warbler behavior, being mainly insectivorous. It is known for its pleasant and melodious song, which it uses to communicate and establish territory during the breeding season.

The warbler's song is a charming and melodious babble, more consistent and smooth than that of the Icterine Warbler but with less variety and no mimicry. Its calls include a rattling "trrrr", a subdued "tuk", and a chattering "chret-chet".

During the breeding season, the Melodious Warbler lays a clutch of three to five eggs. The nest is artfully constructed from fine grasses, stems, soft twigs, flakes of bark, and lichen, typically situated in a tree or bush.

The Melodious Warbler can be confused with the Icterine Warbler, but it can be distinguished by its browner upper parts and yellower underparts, as well as its song and calls.

Insects form the mainstay of the Melodious Warbler's diet, but it will also consume other small food items, including berries, to supplement its nutrition.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified the Melodious Warbler as "Least Concern", indicating a stable population across its wide range.

8-5-2017 RONDA, ANDALUCIA - SARDINIAN WARBLER (FEMALE) (Sylvia melanocephala)

The Sardinian warbler (Curruca melanocephala ) is a common and widespread typical warbler from the Mediterranean region. Like most Curruca species, it has distinct male and female plumages. The adult male has a grey back, whitish underparts, black head, white throat and red eyes. Plumages are somewhat variable even in the same locality, with the intensity of a reddish hue on upper- and/or underside that varies from absent to (in some subspecies) pronounced. The female is mainly brown above and buff below, with a grey head. The Sardinian warbler's song is fast and rattling, and is very characteristic of the Mediterranean areas where this bird breeds.

It breeds in the southernmost areas of Europe and just into Asia in Turkey and the eastern end of the Mediterranean. This small passerine bird, unlike most "warblers", is not particularly migratory, but some birds winter in north Africa, and it occurs as a vagrant well away from the breeding range, as far as Great Britain.

This is a bird of open country and cultivation, with bushes for nesting. The nest is built in low shrub or brambles, and 3-6 eggs are laid. Like most "warblers", it is insectivorous, but will also take berries and other soft fruit.

28-3-2017 TARCOLES RIVER COSTA RICA - CENTRAL AMERICAN BOA (Boa imperator)

The Northern boa is a large, heavy-bodied, nonvenomous snake that is commonly kept in captivity. It lives in both Central America and northern parts of South America and as a result, the appearance of this snake varies greatly depending on the specific locality. One population is found on the Cayos Cochinos (Hog Islands) off the northern shore of Honduras. These are naturally more lightly colored, although they retain the distinctive darker tail that is characteristic of most members of this species. The color of the tail may vary from salmon-pink to orange. Another well-known population of the Northern boa is the population from Nicaragua. They typically have a compact saddle pattern on their backs that is often circular in shape. These boas have also a reputation for being "nippy", with some individuals being quick to bite in self-defense.

Northern boas are found in Mexico, Central America, and South America west of the Andes Mountains (primarily Colombia). They can acclimatize to a variety of environmental conditions, from tropical rainforests to arid deserts; however, they prefer to live in rainforests due to humidity, temperature, cover from potential predators, and ample prey.

Northern boas generally live on their own and do not interact with any other snakes unless they want to mate. They are nocturnal but may come out to bask during the day when night-time temperatures are too low. As semi-arboreal snakes, young boas may climb into trees and shrubs to forage; however, they become mostly terrestrial as they become older and heavier. Northern boas are ambush predators and use constriction as the primary means of killing their prey. These snakes strike when they perceive a threat. Their bite can be painful, especially from large snakes, but is rarely dangerous to humans. Specimens from Central America are more irascible, hissing loudly and striking repeatedly when disturbed, while those from South America tame down more readily. Like all snakes, Northern boas in a shed cycle are more unpredictable, because the substance that lubricates between the old skin and the new makes their eyes appear milky, blue, or opaque so that the snake cannot see very well, causing it to be more defensive than it might be otherwise.

Northern boas are polygynous meaning that males mate with multiple females. The breeding season usually takes place from April to August. During this time females produce a scent that attracts males, and males fight each other for mating rights. After the gestation period of 100-120 days, the female will give birth to 10-65 live young. Baby boas are born precocial; they are fully developed and don't require parental care.

21-3-2017 HOTEL BOUGANVILLEA, COSTA RICA - RUFOUS CAPPED WARBLER (Basileuterus rufifrons)

The rufous-capped warbler (Basileuterus rufifrons ) is a New World warbler native from Mexico south to Guatemala, rarely occurring as far north as southeastern Arizona and south Texas. Birds in the southern part of the range are now split out as a separate species, as the chestnut-capped warbler (Basileuterus delattrii ).

Rufous-capped warblers generally reach a length of about 12.7 cm (5.0 in). They are plain-olive to olive-gray, with white underbellies, bright yellow chests and throats, and a distinctive facial pattern consisting of a rufous cap, a white eyebrow-line (or superciliary), a dark eye-line fading into a rufous cheek, and a white malar marking. The bill is rather stout for a warbler, the wings are round and stubby, and the tail is long, often raised at a high angle and flicked.

While rufous-capped warblers are generally birds of tropical shrubby highlands, North American sightings tend to be in oak woodland canyon bottoms, near running water, while the birds stay low in dense vegetation.

The courtship song of the rufous-capped warbler is a rapid, accelerating series of chipping notes (chit-chit-chit-chitchitchit ), somewhat reminiscent of the rufous-crowned sparrow, while the call note is a hard chik or tsik, often repeated. Like other New World warblers, this species does not actually warble. Male rufous‐capped warblers have complex songs with many syllable types shared both within and between males’ repertoires. The males also show seasonal, temporal and annual variation in their song use.

Rufous-capped warblers primarily feed on insects and spiders, foraging through dense brush and scanning close to the ground for movement. They are not generally known to flycatch from perches.

14-5-2017 VILLALONGA RESERVOIR, VALENCIA - WHITE FEATHERLEG DAMSELFLY (FEMALE) (Platycnemis latipes)

The white-legged damselfly or blue featherleg (Platycnemis pennipes) is a damselfly of slow-flowing, muddy waters. It occurs from the Atlantic to Siberia and is often abundant throughout its range.

Platycnemis pennipes is about 32 millimetres (1.3 in) long. Mature adults differ from most other blue damselflies in having expanded white edges to the tibiae, paired black markings down most of the abdomen, broad pale brown double antehumeral stripes, wider head and a pale brown pterostigmata.

The male has a blue abdomen that is often pale and usually has a greenish thorax. The female is a very pale yellow-green colour with black markings.

This species favours unshaded slow-flowing sections of muddy rivers with abundant floating vegetation. it has been recorded in tidal rivers and the larvae seem well able to tolerate brackish water. It also occurs in muddy streams but is rare in lakes or ponds of any sort. In north-west Europe, it is mostly confined to flowing waters.

Mating is preceded by the male displaying his white legs in a fluttering display flight in front of females. Elongated eggs are laid whilst in tandem, into emergent stems and especially the underside of floating leaves. The larvae live amongst bottom debris and emerge after two years.

After emerging, adults tend to congregate in the shelter of tall vegetation, although some immatures wander away from water and have been found five kilometres away from the nearest breeding site.

14-5-2017 PEGO MARJAL, ALICANTE - BLACK WINGED STILT (Himantopus himantopus)

The Black-winged Stilt, Himantopus himantopus, is a slender wader known for its strikingly long, pink legs and contrasting black-and-white plumage. This elegant bird is a member of the avocet and stilt family, Recurvirostridae.

Adult Black-winged Stilts measure 33–36 cm in length. They possess a long, thin black bill and display a distinctive black and white coloration. The head and neck are predominantly white, with variable black markings depending on the sex and subspecies. Males typically have a glossy or greenish sheen on their black backs, while females exhibit a more brownish tinge. During flight, their long legs trail behind, and their wingbeats are steady.

These birds favor marshes, shallow lakes, and ponds as their breeding grounds. They are also known to inhabit coastal areas during migration and in the winter months.

The Black-winged Stilt has a wide range, extending across Europe, Asia, and Africa. Some populations migrate to coastal regions in winter, while others in milder climates may remain resident or engage in short-range movements.

Black-winged Stilts are often seen foraging in shallow waters, gracefully picking insects and crustaceans from the surface. They are known to nest in small groups, sometimes alongside avocets, and exhibit a variety of courtship behaviors, including intricate displays and duets.

The flight call of the Black-winged Stilt is a sharp and clear kleek, typically heard during its aerial maneuvers.

Nests are simple bare spots on the ground near water. These birds are communal nesters and may breed in loose colonies. They have been known to breed as far north as Britain, with recent successful breeding events recorded in Southern and Northern England.

The Black-winged Stilt can be confused with other stilt species, such as the Black-necked Stilt (H. mexicanus) in the Americas, the White-backed Stilt (H. melanurus), and the Pied Stilt (H. leucocephalus) in Australasia and New Zealand.

Black-winged stilts (Himantopus himantopus) are very long-legged wading birds. They are found in both warm and hot climates, feed on small aquatic creatures, and nest on the ground surface in small colonies.

Adult Black-winged stilts have long, pink legs, and a long, rather thin black bill. They are generally black above and white below, with a white head and neck. Males have a black back, often with a greenish gloss or sheen. Females' backs have a brownish hue, contrasting with the black remiges. In populations where the top of the head is normally white (at least in winter), females tend to have less black on the head and neck the entire year round, while males often have much more black, particularly in summer. This difference is not clear-cut, however, and males usually grow all-white head feathers in winter. Immature birds are grey, instead of black, and have a markedly sandy hue on their wings, with light feather fringes appearing as a whitish line in flight.

Their diet consists mainly of insects and crustaceans, which they deftly pick from the water's surface or from wet sand.

The IUCN lists the Black-winged Stilt as Least Concern, indicating a stable global population. However, they are protected under the Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds, highlighting the importance of international cooperation in their conservation.

14-5-2017 VILLALONGA RESERVOIR, VALENCIA - LITTLE EGRET (Egretta garzetta)

The Little Egret, Egretta garzetta, is a dainty heron adorned in pure white plumage. It is characterized by a slender black beak, long black legs, and, notably in the western race, yellow feet. This elegant bird is a sight to behold with its graceful neck and poised stance.

Adult Little Egrets measure between 55–65 cm in length with a wingspan of 88–106 cm, and weigh 350–550 g. Their plumage is predominantly white, though some may exhibit bluish-grey coloration. Breeding adults boast ornate nape plumes reaching about 150 mm, along with distinctive feathers on the breast and elongated scapulars. The bill and lores are black, with greenish-grey skin at the base of the lower mandible and around the eye, which houses a yellow iris. Legs are black with contrasting yellow feet, though juveniles may have greenish-black legs and duller feet. The subspecies E. g. nigripes is distinguished by yellow skin between the bill and eye, and blackish feet.

The Little Egret frequents a variety of wetland habitats, from the shores of lakes and rivers to marshes and coastal regions. It is often found in open environments, such as mangroves, swamps, mudflats, and sandy beaches, as well as human-altered landscapes like rice fields.

The species has a broad breeding distribution across warm temperate to tropical regions of Asia, Africa, Australia, and Europe. Northern populations are migratory, wintering in Africa and southern Asia, while others remain as permanent residents in warmer areas.

14-5-2017 VILLALONGA RESERVOIR, VALENCIA - YELLOW LEGGED GULL (Larus michahellis)

The Yellow-legged Gull (Larus michahellis) is a large, robust seabird with a commanding presence. Its size can be quite variable, with the smallest females being scarcely larger than a Common Gull, and the largest males approaching the heft of a Great Black-backed Gull. Adults typically exhibit a grey back, a shade lighter than that of the Lesser Black-backed Gull, and their heads are notably whiter in the autumn months. A distinctive feature is their yellow legs, which give this species its common name.

When observing the Yellow-legged Gull, look for the yellow legs that contrast with the grey back and the white head, which becomes even whiter during the autumn. The wing tips are black with limited white spots, and adults have a red spot on the bill. The eye is surrounded by a red ring. Juveniles can be identified by their paler head, rump, and underparts, dark bill and eyes, and a black band on the tail.

This gull favors a variety of coastal environments, often nesting on sea cliffs, islands, and occasionally on buildings within urban settings. It is also known to breed on trees in some regions.

The Yellow-legged Gull has a breeding range centered around the Mediterranean Sea, extending to the Atlantic islands and coasts as far north as Brittany and west to the Azores. Its presence is also noted on the western side of the Black Sea.

The species is known for its adaptability, with many individuals remaining in the same area year-round, while others migrate to milder regions of western Europe or head south to areas such as Senegal and the Red Sea. Post-breeding dispersal can lead to increased numbers in regions like southern England from July to October.

The vocalizations of the Yellow-legged Gull are characterized by a loud, laughing call that is deeper and more nasal than that of the Herring Gull.

Breeding typically occurs in colonies, with nests constructed on the ground or cliff ledges. The nests are mounds of vegetation, and the species is known for its vigorous defense of its eggs, usually numbering three. Incubation lasts for 27–31 days, and fledging occurs after 35–40 days.

An opportunistic forager, the Yellow-legged Gull is omnivorous, feeding on a wide range of items from rubbish tips to field prey, coastal offerings, and even other seabirds' catches. Remarkably, during periods of food scarcity, such as the lockdown in Italy in 2020, these gulls have been observed preying on larger animals like rats and rock doves.

The Yellow-legged Gull is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating that it does not face any immediate threat of extinction.

13-5-2017 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - LANTANA PLUME MOTH (Lantanophaga pusillidactylus)

Lantanophaga pusillidactyla, the lantana plume moth, is a moth of the family Pterophoridae. It is native to the southern United States, Mexico, the Caribbean, and South America.

Other records include Cape Verde, Republic of the Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ivory Coast, Réunion, South Africa, Madagascar, Mauritius, Nigeria, Seychelles, Eswatini, Tanzania, Zambia, Israel, Morocco, India, Indonesia (Java), New Guinea and Sri Lanka.[3]

The wingspan is 11–14 mm.

Adults feed on flowers and lay eggs in flower heads. The larvae feed on Lantana camara, Lantana montevidensis, Lantana hispida, Lantana peduncularis, Lantana indica, Lantana involucrata, Lippia alba, Phyla nodiflora, Phyla lanceolata, Caperonia palustris, Mentha and Utricularia species.

17-3-2017 PARC DE NEGOCIS, BARCELONA - MUSKOVY DUCK (Cairina moschata)

In Catalonia the Muscovy duck is also referred to as almescat, turc, morisc or Barbaria. It is a black duck, with white feathers on its wings, with thin skin and firm meat with little fat. The male's weight is double that of the female. Although the breed is originally from tropical America, since the 16th century it has been bred in the rural areas close to Vilafranca del Penedès. According to legend the peasants from the local area liked black ducks and those from Osona liked white ones. Since 1994, the Muskovy duck has the official designation of Producte Alimentari del Penedès. Whoever wishes to try them can go to the Fira del Gall which is held in Vilafranca in mid-December where they can also be bought. These ducks are bred for meat, which has an intense flavour and is very pleasant thanks to their diet which is basically comprised of cereals. They are usually bred in open spaces and are not reared for more than sixty days. With regard to how to prepare it, it can be as duck confit or roasted and the magret can be roasted or accompanied by a fruit sauce, although it is normally prepared with dried fruit or orange. Amongst the dishes in Catalan cuisine it is worth mentioning the Muskovy duck Empordà style with pears, the magret with a coulis of red forest fruit, and the roasted version with plums and pine nuts, with black turnip, with rolled cabbage or with mushrooms. For all of the above the recommended drink to accompany the dish is a young red wine.

28-3-2017 VILLA LAPAS, COSTA RICA - GLASSY WINGED SKIPPER BUTTERFLY (Xenophanes tryxus)

The Pyrginae is a cosmopolitan subfamily, its members being found in temperate and tropical habitats throughout the world. The 990 neotropical species include 581 which are placed in the tribe Pyrgini, which includes such well known genera as Urbanus, Astraptes, Bolla, Pyrgus, Erynnis, Sostrata, and Mylon.

The genus Xenophanes contains a single species tryxus. It is instantly recognizable, with a pale brown ground color heavily speckled with grayish; and large hyaline windows in the fore and hind wings.

Xenophanes tryxus is found throughout much of central and South America from Mexico to Bolivia and Argentina.

This is a species of open disturbed evergreen and deciduous habitats including pastures, farmland, riverbanks, and roadsides at altitudes between sea level and about 1500m.

The adults are normally encountered singly or in two’s and three’s. They bask on bushes and low herbage with wings fully outspread but rarely spend more than a few seconds in one place. In hot weather they escape the desiccating effects of the sun by sheltering under the leaves of trees and bushes. Both sexes visit flowers, and males also imbibe mineralized moisture from rock faces, pebbles, sandbanks, and the surface of unmetalled roads.

13-5-2017 VILLALONGA RESERVOIR, VALENCIA - LITTLE BITTERN (Ixobrychus minutus)

The Little Bittern, or Common Little Bittern (Ixobrychus minutus), is a diminutive member of the heron family, Ardeidae. This species is the smallest of the breeding herons in Europe, distinguished by its compact stature, elongated and pointed bill, and robust neck.

Male Little Bitterns exhibit a striking pattern with a black crown, nape, back, tail, and scapulars that may show a subtle green sheen. Their underparts are a soft buff, and the wings feature a distinctive pinkish buff oval panel formed by the inner wing coverts. Females are more subdued in color, with brownish-black upperparts and streaked underparts. Juveniles resemble females but are rufous and heavily streaked.

This species thrives in dense reedbeds, rushes, and bushes that grow above water bodies, providing them with ample cover and feeding opportunities.

The Little Bittern is native to the Old World, with a breeding range that spans Africa, central and southern Europe, western and southern Asia, and Madagascar. Migratory populations from Europe and western Asia winter in Africa and southern Asia, while tropical populations are generally sedentary.

A crepuscular and elusive bird, the Little Bittern is often solitary, hunting fish, amphibians, and insects within or along the edges of reedbeds. Males establish territories in spring, signaling their presence with a deep, barking call. The species is monogamous for the breeding season, with nests built in dense vegetation over water. They typically lay 5-6 eggs, which are incubated for 17-19 days, and chicks fledge after 25-30 days.

The male's territorial call is a deep, barking or croaking sound, used to attract a mate and declare ownership of his breeding area.

Breeding occurs in dense reedbeds, with a single brood per season. The eggs are laid from mid-May, with both parents involved in raising the offspring.

The Little Bittern can be confused with other small herons, but its size, distinctive wing panels, and behavior help differentiate it.

Their diet consists of fish, amphibians, and insects, which they hunt by stealthily stalking their prey in their aquatic habitats.

The Little Bittern is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN. However, populations have declined in some areas, and the species is subject to conservation efforts under the Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds.

13-5-2017 VILLALONGA RESERVOIR, VALENCIA - LITTLE EGRET (Egretta garzetta)

The little egret (Egretta garzetta) is a species of small heron in the family Ardeidae. It is a white bird with a slender black beak, long black legs and, in the western race, yellow feet. As an aquatic bird, it feeds in shallow water and on land, consuming a variety of small creatures. It breeds colonially, often with other species of water birds, making a platform nest of sticks in a tree, bush or reed bed. A clutch of three to five bluish-green eggs is laid and incubated by both parents for about three weeks. The young fledge at about six weeks of age.

Its breeding distribution is in wetlands in warm temperate to tropical parts of Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia. A successful colonist, its range has gradually expanded north, with stable and self-sustaining populations now present in the United Kingdom.

Little egrets are sociable birds and are often seen in small flocks. They are diurnal birds and feed mainly in the early morning and in the late afternoon. They use a variety of methods to procure their food; they stalk their prey in shallow water, often running with raised wings or shuffling their feet to disturb small fish, or may stand still and wait to ambush prey. Little egrets also make use of opportunities provided by cormorants disturbing fish or humans attracting fish by throwing bread into the water. On land, they walk or run while chasing their prey, feed on creatures disturbed by grazing livestock and ticks on the livestock, and even scavenge occasionally. Little egrets are silent birds in general, however, at their breeding colonies, they make various croaking and bubbling calls. When disturbed, they produce a harsh alarm call.

Little egrets are monogamous. This means that males and females mate only with one partner. They nest in colonies, often with other wading birds. The nests are usually platforms of sticks built in trees or shrubs or in reed beds or bamboo groves. In some locations such as the Cape Verde Islands, these birds nest on cliffs. Pairs defend a small breeding territory, usually extending around 3 to 4 m (10 to 13 ft) from the nest. The female lays 3 to 5 eggs which are incubated by both parents for 21 to 25 days. The eggs are oval in shape and have a pale, non-glossy, blue-green shell color. Upon hatching the chicks are covered in white down feathers and are cared for by both parents. Around 3 weeks after hatching the chicks start to move around the nest and climb into the close branches. They fledge after 40 to 45 days and are able to follow the adults to learn how to feed themselves.

13-5-2017 VILLALONGA RESERVOIR, VALENCIA - YELLOW LEGGED GULL (Larus michahellis)

The yellow-legged gull is a large gull found in Europe, the Middle East and North Africa, which has only recently achieved wide recognition as a distinct species. It was formerly treated as a subspecies of either the Caspian gull L. cachinnans, or more broadly as a subspecies of the herring gull L. argentatus.The genus name is from Latin Larus which appears to have referred to a gull or other large seabird, and the species name honours the German zoologist Karl Michahelles.

The yellow-legged gull is a large gull, though the size does vary, with the smallest females being scarcely larger than a common gull and the largest males being roughly the size of a great black-backed gull. They range in length from 52 to 68 cm (20 to 27 in) in total length, from 120 to 155 cm (47 to 61 in) in wingspan and from 550 to 1,600 g (1.21 to 3.53 lb) in weight. Among standard measurements, the wing chord is 40.8 to 47.2 cm (16.1 to 18.6 in), the bill is 4.6 to 6 cm (1.8 to 2.4 in) and the tarsus is 5.6 to 7.5 cm (2.2 to 3.0 in). Adults are externally similar to herring gulls but have yellow legs. They have a grey back, slightly darker than herring gulls but lighter than lesser black-backed gulls. They are much whiter-headed in autumn, and have more extensively black wing tips with few white spots, just as lesser black-backed. They have a red spot on the bill as adults, like the entire complex. There is a red ring around the eye like in the lesser black-backed gull but unlike in the herring gull which has a dark yellow ring.

First-year birds have a paler head, rump and underparts than those of the herring gull, more closely resembling first-year great black-backed gulls in plumage. They have a dark bill and eyes, pinkish grey legs, dark flight feathers and a well-defined black band on the tail. They become lighter in the underparts and lose the upperpart pattern subsequently. By their second winter, birds are essentially feathered like adults, save for the patterned feathers remaining on the wing coverts. However, their bill tips are black, their eyes still dark, and the legs are a light yellow flesh colour.

The call is a loud laugh which is deeper and more nasal than the call of the herring gull.

The breeding range is centred on the Mediterranean Sea. In North Africa, it is common in Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia and increasing in places. Recent breeding has occurred in Libya and Egypt. In the Middle East, a few breed in Israel and Syria with larger numbers in Cyprus and Turkey. In Europe, there are colonies all along the Mediterranean coast, and also on the Atlantic islands and coasts north to Brittany and west to the Azores. It also breeds on the western side of the Black Sea; here it overlaps with the Caspian gull but there is a difference in habitat, with the yellow-legged gull preferring sea cliffs and the Caspian gull flatter shores. In recent decades birds have spread north into central and western Europe. One to four pairs have attempted to breed in southern England since 1995 (sometimes hybrid pairs with lesser black-backed gulls), though colonisation has been very slow.

Many birds remain in the same area all year round, but others migrate to spend the winter in mild areas of western Europe or head south as far as Senegal, Gambia and the Red Sea. There is also extensive northward post-breeding dispersal in the late summer, with numbers in southern England high from July to October. It is reported as a vagrant to northeastern North America and Nigeria.

Like most Larus gulls, they are omnivores and opportunistic foragers. They will scavenge on rubbish tips and elsewhere, as well as seeking suitable prey in fields or on the coast, or robbing smaller gulls and other seabirds of their catches. Although urban populations are generally opportunistic scavengers, they can shift to a predatory diet if necessary; this was observed during the lockdown of Italy in 2020, when the lack of food scraps led the yellow-legged gulls of Rome to take prey as large as rats and rock doves.

Atlantic gulls in Gibraltar have been observed and photographed picking and eating fruit from olive trees in flight.

Yellow-legged gulls usually breed in colonies. Eggs, usually three, are laid from mid March to early May and are defended vigorously by this large gull. The nest is a sometimes sparse mound of vegetation built on the ground or on cliff ledges. In some places such as Gibraltar they have started nesting on buildings and even on trees. The eggs are incubated for 27–31 days and the young birds fledge after 35–40 days.

19-3-2017 MIAMI, FLORIDA - RUSTY TIP PAGE BUTTERFLY (Siproeta epaphus)

Siproeta epaphus, the rusty-tipped page or brown siproeta,[1] is a New World butterfly that lives all year in tropical habitats. It has large wings, averaging 7.0–7.5 cm (2.8–3.0 in),[1] that are black in the inner portion of the top surface and brown throughout the underside. Both surfaces have a bold white transverse stripe continuing across both wings. The outer portion of the forewings, beyond the white stripe, is rusty orange in the widespread subspecies S. epaphus epaphus; it is mostly or entirely black in the other two subspecies. S. epaphus is found throughout Central America, where it is one of the most common butterflies. Its range extends from southern North America to central South America. The range includes (though may not be limited to) south Texas and rarely southern New Mexico south through both eastern and western Mexico to the Guyanas, Brazil, Bolivia and Peru.

Adults can be found nectaring on a variety of flowers including Lantana, Croton, Impatiens and Stachytrapheta. They are also known to feed on rotting fruit.

Siproeta is currently unknown. In Greek mythology Epaphus is the son of Zeus and Io who founded the city of Memphis in Egypt.

The Rusty Tip is found in wet subtropical forests, especially along the forest edge and river banks.

Females patrol the forest edge looking for young plants to oviposit on. Eggs are laid in loose clusters and when the caterpillar hatches out they feed on the fresh leaves until they pupate.

Adult Rusty Tip butterflies can be found all year round in tropical areas.

While they are not considered to be a native of the Unitied States there have been a couple of reports of strays that made their way into the border states. The Malachite (Siprotea stelenes) and the Rusty Tip are closely related and while the adults look fairly different their chrysilides look almost the same.

19-3-2017 BUTTERFLY WORLD, FLORIDA - GRECIAN SHOEMAKER BUTTERFLY (Catonephele numilia)

Catonephele numilia, the blue-frosted banner, blue-frosted Catone, Grecian shoemaker or stoplight Catone, is a butterfly of the family Nymphalidae found in Central and South America.

This butterfly usually flies along the ground and close to the ripe fruits and flowers. It can live a month. Adults feed on rotten fruits, while caterpillars feed on Alchornea species (family Euphorbiaceae).

Catonephele numilia can be found in most of Central and South America.

Larvae are known to feed on Alchornea costaricensis and A. latifolia; both are woody species known to have medicinal properties.

Estimated Lifespan 26 Days.

Adults use rotting fruit and tree sap as their primary nutrient source.

The origin of the genus and species of Catonephele numilia is currently unknown.

Adults spend the majority of their time in wet forest habitats.

Males perch on vegetation and wait for receptive females to pass. After mating, females spend the warmest parts of the day cruising waterways and paths looking for host plants to lay their eggs. Once the eggs hatch, the larvae feed on the host plant until they are ready to form their chrysalides.

There are multiple generations each year, making it possible to find adults all year round.

All the species found in the genus Catonephele are sexually dimorphic, which means the males and females of a species look remarkably different from each other.

8-5-2017 ARCOS DE FRONTERA, ANDALUSIA - EURASIAN EAGLE OWL (Bubo bubo)

The Eurasian eagle-owl (Bubo bubo) is a formidable avian predator and one of the largest owl species. The females, which are larger than the males, can reach a total length of 75 cm (30 in) and boast a wingspan of up to 188 cm (6 ft 2 in). This species is characterized by prominent ear tufts, mottled upper parts with darker blackish and tawny coloring, barred wings and tail, and a buff underpart streaked with darker shades. The facial disc is not sharply defined, and the orange eyes are a striking feature.

To identify the Eurasian eagle-owl, look for its large size, barrel-shaped body, and erect ear tufts. The orange eyes are distinctive, and the plumage is a mix of brown-black to tawny-buff with dense freckling on the forehead and crown, and dark splotches on a pale background on the back and mantle. The underparts are creamy to tawny with fine dark barring.

Eurasian eagle-owls favor a variety of habitats but are predominantly found in mountainous or other rocky regions near woodland edges, shrubby areas, and wetlands. They also inhabit coniferous forests, steppes, and other areas at varied elevations that are typically remote.

The Eurasian eagle-owl has an extensive range across Europe and Asia, from the Iberian Peninsula to Japan. It is also present in the UK, where it is considered non-native.

This species is mostly nocturnal, hunting a variety of prey from small mammals to larger birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects. They are sedentary and territorial, with a deep, resonant territorial call.

Song & Calls

The male's territorial call is a deep "ooh-hu," while the female's is higher-pitched. They may also produce a faint laughter-like sound and a harsh "kveck-kveck."

Eurasian eagle-owls typically breed on cliff ledges, in gullies, or among rocks. The female incubates the eggs and broods the young, while the male provides food. Both parents care for the young for about five months

The Eurasian eagle-owl can be distinguished from other large owls like the great grey owl and Ural owl by its ear tufts and orange eyes. It is also larger than the snowy owl.

The diet is mainly small mammals, such as rodents and rabbits, but also includes larger mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and large insects.

The IUCN lists the Eurasian eagle-owl as Least Concern, with a decreasing population trend. However, it remains widespread with a large total population.

21-3-2017 HOTEL BOUGANVILLEA, COSTA RICA - TROPICAL MOCKINGBIRD (Mimus gilvus)

The tropical mockingbird (Mimus gilvus) is a medium-sized bird, with adults measuring between 23 to 25.5 cm in length. It exhibits a predominantly gray plumage on the head and upper parts, while the underparts are an off-white shade. A distinctive whitish supercilium contrasts with a dark stripe through the eye. The wings are blackish, adorned with two white wing bars and white-edged flight feathers. Its long dark tail is tipped with white, and it possesses a slim, slightly curved black bill and long dark legs. Juvenile birds are somewhat browner with dusky streaks on their chest and flanks.

To identify the tropical mockingbird, look for its gray upper parts, white underparts, and the characteristic white wing bars. The white tips on the long tail are also a key feature. The bird's slim, curved bill and long legs are useful identification markers as well.

This species thrives in open habitats such as scrublands, savannas, parks, and farmlands. It tends to avoid dense forests and mangroves, preferring lowlands to middle elevations, up to about 2,500 m in Central America and the northern Andes.

The tropical mockingbird is a resident breeding bird found from southern Mexico to northern and eastern South America, as well as in the Lesser Antilles and other Caribbean islands. It has a wide distribution with several subspecies occupying various regions, including the Yucatán Peninsula, the Lesser Antilles, Trinidad and Tobago, and parts of Colombia, Venezuela, and Brazil.

This bird is known for its omnivorous diet, feeding on the ground or low in vegetation, and even capturing flying insects in mid-air. It is also observed to consume a variety of fruits, seeds, arthropods, and occasionally lizards and eggs. The tropical mockingbird is monogamous and may exhibit cooperative breeding, with previous brood offspring acting as helpers.