14-8-2017 AMSTERDAM ZOO, NETHERLANDS - SUN PARAKEET (Aratinga solstitialis)

The Sun parakeet (Aratinga solstitialis) is a medium-sized, brightly colored parrot native to northeastern South America. Sun parakeets are very social birds, typically living in flocks. They form monogamous pairs for reproduction and nest in palm cavities in the tropics. They are commonly bred and kept in aviculture and may live up to 30 years.

Adult Sun parakeets have a rich yellow crown, nape, mantle, lesser wing coverts, tips of the greater wing coverts, chest, and underwing coverts. The face and belly are orange with red around the ears. The base of the greater wing coverts, tertials, and base of the primaries are green, while the secondaries, tips of the primaries, and most of the primary coverts are dark blue. The tail is olive green with a blue tip. From below, all the flight feathers are dark greyish. The bill is black. The legs and the bare eye-ring are grey, but the latter often fade to white in captivity (so using the amount of grey or white in the eye ring for determining the "purity" of an individual can be misleading). The sexes are similar in plumage, although females may be lighter and slenderer in body, having a shorter tail, with a smaller, rounder head and a smaller beak. Juvenile Sun parakeets have predominantly green plumage. The distinctive yellow, orange, and reddish coloration on the back, abdomen, and head is attained with maturity.

Sun parakeets live in a relatively small region of northeastern South America: the north Brazilian state of Roraima, southern Guyana, extreme southern Suriname, and southern French Guiana. They also occur as vagrants to coastal French Guiana. These birds are mostly found in tropical habitats, but their exact ecological requirements remain relatively poorly known. They occur within dry savanna woodlands and coastal forests, but, at the edge of humid forests growing in foothills in the Guiana Shield, and cross more open savannah habitats only when traveling between patches of forest. Sun parakeets have been seen in shrublands along the Amazon riverbank, as well as forested valleys and coastal, seasonally flooded forests. They usually inhabit fruiting trees and palm groves.

14-8-2017 AMSTERDAM ZOO, NETHERLANDS - 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.

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.

14-8-2017 AMSTERDAM ZOO, NETHERLANDS - RED RUFFED LEMUR (Varecia rubra)

The red ruffed lemur (Varecia rubra ) is one of two species in the genus Varecia, the ruffed lemurs; the other is the black-and-white ruffed lemur (Varecia variegata ). Like all lemurs, it is native to Madagascar. It occurs only in the rainforests of Masoala, in the northeast of the island. It is one of the largest primates of Madagascar with a body length of 53 cm, a tail length of 60 cm and a weight of 3.3–3.6 kg. Its soft, thick fur is red and black in color and sports a buff or cream colored spot at the nape, but a few are known to have a white or pink patch on the back of the limbs or digits and a ring on the base of the tail in a similar color.

The Red ruffed lemurs are unique, medium-sized lemurs with a primate-like appearance. These animals differ greatly from all other types of lemur. They exhibit thick, soft, reddish coat with a long, black and heavily furred tail. The tail base is ringed with pink colored fur. On the top of their head, the Red ruffed lemurs display a conspicuous white colored tuff. They have black faces and long snouts.

The social structure of Red ruffed lemurs is largely associated with their habitat. Some populations may form groups of 18 - 32 individuals, whereas other can live in smaller units of 2 - 5 animals. When looking for food, a group usually divides into smaller sub-groups. Various groups may have the same core home range, where they rear their offspring. With the coming of the wet season, the food becomes abundant and these animals gather into larger aggregations.

As the food sources gradually exhaust by the end of the wet season, these large units break up into smaller groups that disperse. As diurnal animals, red ruffed lemurs are active during the daytime hours, particularly in the morning and evening. They are known to display territorial behavior and border scuffles may sometimes take place. The communication system of this vocal species includes at least 12 different calls. They most frequently give out low grunts, gurgles and cackle-like roars, which are thought to act as alarm calls.

Red ruffed lemurs have a polygynous mating system, where males generally mate with females in their group. Occasionally, males from the outside come to the home range of a group to mate with receptive females. Breeding occurs during the dry season, in May-July. Up to 6 young are born after a very short gestation period (90 - 103 days) for a primate of this body size. Young are raised in nests or secluded places in special areas known as parkings. These parkings are located in the core of the group's home range. Group members practice communal care, while mothers are far in the forest. Between 3 and 7 weeks old, the infants begin venturing from the nest. Weaning occurs by 4 months old. The age of reproductive maturity is 1 - 2 years old in males and 2 - 3 years old in females.

Currently, the Red ruffed lemurs are among the most endangered lemur species in Madagascar due to tiny range and small population. Most Red ruffed lemurs live outside the protected area called the Masoala Nature Reserve, which poses additional threat to the survival of these animals. The Red ruffed lemurs are often captured for pet or animal trade. Other notable threats to this species are hunting and habitat destruction.

According to the Woodland Park Zoo, the total population of the Red ruffed lemurs in the wild is 1,000 to 10,000 individuals. However, this species’ numbers are decreasing today, and the animal is classified as Critically Endangered (CR) on the IUCN Red List.

The primary role of these animals in the local ecosystem is pollination for various hardwood trees. The Red ruffed lemurs have long snouts, resembling these of foxes. When eating nectar of deep tubular flowers, their snouts are covered with pollen, which they carry to other flowers that they consume.

14-8-2017 AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS - GREY HERON (Ardea cinerea)

Grey Herons are unmistakeable – tall, with long legs, a long beak and grey, black and white feathering. They can stand with their neck stretched out, looking for food, or hunched down with their neck bent over their chest.

The Grey Heron is a distinctive species with grey, black, and white plumage. It is often seen along rivers or lake margins, or standing in flooded fields.

In flight their large size, impressive wingspan, long legs, and folded neck give them an unmistakable silhouette. Largely silent away from colonies, flight is sometimes accompanied by a harsh ‘kraank’ call.

Grey Herons gather to nest in treetop sites called heronries, some of which have been occupied for many decades. These have been monitored in the UK since 1928 through the Heronries Census. Overall the UK's breeding population has increased, with numbers peaking in the early 2000, but with some more recent declines.

The Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea) is a statuesque wading bird belonging to the family Ardeidae. It is a familiar sight in both rural and urban settings, often seen standing stoically along the water's edge. An adult Grey Heron is a large bird, reaching up to 100 cm in height, with a wingspan between 155 to 195 cm. It weighs between 1 to 2 kg. The plumage is predominantly ashy-grey above, with a greyish-white underbelly and some black on the flanks. A striking feature is the white head and neck adorned with a broad black stripe that extends from the eye to the black crest. The beak is pinkish-yellow, long, and sharply pointed, while the legs are a brown hue.

When identifying the Grey Heron, look for the white head with the black supercilium and crest, the long grey neck, and the ashy-grey wings and back. The underparts are lighter, and the legs are long and brown. Juveniles can be distinguished by their duller grey neck and smaller crest. The beak is a useful indicator of age, being brighter in breeding adults.

Grey Herons are highly adaptable and can be found in a variety of watery habitats including lakes, rivers, ponds, marshes, and coastal environments. They require shallow waters for foraging or areas with shelving margins where they can wade.

Native to temperate Europe and Asia, as well as parts of Africa, the Grey Heron has a broad range. Northern populations may migrate southwards in autumn, while others remain resident year-round. Vagrant sightings have occurred in the Caribbean, Bermuda, and parts of North America.

The Grey Heron exhibits a slow, deliberate flight with its neck retracted in an S-shape. It is known for its solitary foraging habits, often standing motionless or stalking prey through shallow waters. It is also a communal rooster, often found in trees or cliffs at night.

The primary call of the Grey Heron is a loud croaking "fraaank." At breeding colonies, a variety of guttural and raucous noises can be heard, including greeting calls between mates and alarm calls when predators are nearby.

Breeding takes place in colonies, or heronries, typically in high trees near water. Nests are reused and added to each year. The breeding season sees a clutch of three to five bluish-green eggs laid, which both parents incubate. Chicks fledge at 7-8 weeks old.

The Grey Heron can be confused with the larger North American Great Blue Heron or the South American Cocoi Heron. However, it can be distinguished by its size and the coloration of its flanks and thighs.

 

Grey Herons are apex predators within their ecosystem, feeding on a variety of aquatic creatures such as fish, amphibians, crustaceans, and insects. They have also been known to consume small mammals and juvenile birds.

The Grey Heron is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating a stable and widespread population.

14-8-2017 AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS - GREY HERON (Ardea cinerea)

Raising a nest full of baby herons is hard work! During the breeding season, some Gray Herons spend up to 23 hours per day foraging and some travel up to 38 km (24 miles) from their nest in search of food.

Gray Herons usually feed on smaller fish, 10–25 cm (4–10 inches) long, but some ambitious individuals take fish weighing up to 500 grams (1.1 pounds) and eels that are up to 60 cm (24 inches) long.

Gray Herons live in Eurasia and Africa, but rare individuals stray from their normal range to places like the Lesser Antilles in the Caribbean Sea. Despite the Gray Heron's similarity to Great Blue Heron, some observers have also documented this species from the Atlantic Coast of mainland North America, from Newfoundland to Virginia, and also from Alaska’s Aleutian Islands.

14-8-2017 AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS - EGYPTIAN GOOSE (Alopochen aegyptiaca)

The Egyptian goose, Alopochen aegyptiaca, is a striking bird, native to Sub-Saharan Africa and the Nile Valley. It is a member of the Anatidae family, which includes ducks, geese, and swans. This species is unique in its appearance, resembling a goose more than a duck when in flight, with a heavy and robust stature. Adults typically measure between 63 to 73 centimeters in height.

Both sexes of the Egyptian goose display identical plumage, though males are generally larger. Plumage tones can vary from grey to brown, not necessarily indicative of age or sex. Mature birds boast a significant white patch on their wings, concealed by wing coverts when at rest but prominently displayed when the bird is agitated or in flight.

The Egyptian goose favors open or semi-open environments, often found near freshwater sources. Its habitat ranges from lowlands to high altitudes, such as the Ethiopian Highlands, up to 4,000 meters above sea level. It avoids dense forests and deserts.

This species is widespread and common in its native range, though numbers have dwindled in the northern Nile Valley. Historically found in southeastern Europe and parts of the Middle East, its presence in these areas has diminished.

The Egyptian goose is largely terrestrial, capable of perching on trees and buildings. It is known for its aggressive territorial behavior, especially during breeding season, and is not hesitant to engage in aerial combat with intruders. The species is monogamous, with both parents caring for their offspring.

The male's call is a subdued, hoarse quack, becoming louder and more rapid when agitated, resembling a steam engine. The female's quack is raucous and frequently heard, particularly when defending her young.

Nesting occurs in a variety of locations, with a preference for holes in mature trees. Both parents incubate the eggs, and the young are capable of foraging for themselves shortly after hatching.

Egyptian geese primarily consume seeds, leaves, grasses, and plant stems. They may also eat small animals such as locusts and worms. Goslings initially feed on small aquatic invertebrates before transitioning to grazing.

The Egyptian goose is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating a stable population. However, in regions where it has been introduced, it is considered invasive and may pose a threat to native species.

14-8-2017 AMSTERDAM ZOO, NETHERLANDS - MALACHITE BUTTERFLY (Siproeta stelenes)

Siproeta stelenes (malachite) is a Neotropical brush-footed butterfly (family Nymphalidae). The malachite has large wings that are black and brilliant green or yellow-green on the upperside and light brown and olive green on the underside. It is named for the mineral malachite, which is similar in color to the bright green on the butterfly's wings. Typically, the wingspread is between 8.5 and 10 cm (3.3 and 3.9 in). The malachite is found throughout Central and northern South America, where it is one of the most common butterfly species. Its distribution extends as far north as southern Texas and the tip of Florida, to Cuba as subspecies S. s. insularis (Holland, 1916), and S. s. biplagiata, and south to Brazil.

Malachites often are confused with the heliconiine Philaethria dido. They have similar coloration, but their wing shapes are different.

Adults feed on flower nectar, rotting fruit, dead animals, and bat dung. Females lay eggs on the new leaves of plants in the family Acanthaceae, especially Ruellia. The larvae are horned, spiny, black caterpillars with red markings, The pupal stage is green, with sharp, gold spines that can puncture predators.

14-8-2017 AMSTERDAM ZOO, NETHERLANDS - RED RIVER HOG (Potamochoerus porcus)

The Red river hog (Potamochoerus porcus) is a wild member of the pig family that lives in Africa. It is rarely seen away from rainforests, and generally prefers areas near rivers or swamps.

Red river hogs have striking orange to reddish-brown fur, with black legs and a tufted white stripe along the spine. Adults have white markings around the eyes and on the cheeks and jaws; the rest of the muzzle and face are a contrasting black. The fur on the jaw and the flanks is longer than that on the body, with the males having especially prominent facial whiskers. The entire body of Red river hogs is covered with hair, with no bare skin visible. Males are slightly larger than females and have conical protuberances on either side of the snout and small, sharp tusks. These facial protuberances are bony and probably protect the male's face during head-to-head combat with other males.

Red river hogs are found in western and central Africa. They range from the Congo area and the Gambia to the eastern Congo, southwards to the Kasai and the Congo River. Red river hogs live in rainforests, wet dense savannas, and forested valleys, and near rivers, lakes, and marshes.

14-8-2017 AMSTERDAM ZOO, NETHERLANDS - RED TAILED PARROT (Amazona brasiliensis)

The red-tailed amazon (Amazona brasiliensis), also known as the red-tailed parrot, is a species of parrot in the family Psittacidae. It is endemic to coastal regions in the south-east Brazilian states of São Paulo and Paraná. The bird has been threatened by habitat loss and capture for the wild bird trade, and is a symbol of the efforts to conserve one of the Earth's most biologically diverse ecosystems. Consequently, it is considered Near Threatened by BirdLife International and the IUCN. In 1991–92, the population had fallen below 2000 individuals. Following on-going conservation efforts, a count and estimate from 2015 suggests a population of 9,000–10,000, indicating that this species is recovering from earlier persecution.[1] A recent study shows that the population of this species is stable at Paraná state, Southern Brazil, revealing population trend fluctuation during the last 12 years.

Red-tailed amazons weigh around 425 g (15.0 oz) and are approximately 35 cm (14 in) long. As expected from its common name, it has a broad red band on its tail, but as it largely is limited to the inner webs of the feathers, it is mainly visible from below or when the tail is spread open. Additionally, the tail has a broad yellow tip, and the outer rectrices are dark purplish-blue at the base. The remaining plumage is green, while the throat, cheeks and auriculars are purple-blue, the forecrown is red, and the rectrices are broadly tipped dark blue. It has a yellowish bill with a blackish tip to the upper mandible, a pale gray eye ring, and orange irises. Juveniles have a duller plumage and brown irises.

The red-tailed amazon is associated with the Atlantic Forest system, and lives in forests, woodlands and mangroves near the coast. This species is almost entirely restricted to lowlands, typically occurring at altitudes below 200 meters (660 feet) above sea-level, though sometimes reaching altitudes up to 700 m (2,300 ft).

Red-tailed amazons are usually found in pairs or flocks, which occasionally may number several hundred individuals in the non-breeding season. It primarily roosts and breeds on coastal islands, but most of the foraging takes place on the nearby mainland, where the birds forage mainly for fruits, but their diet also includes seeds, flowers, nectar, and rarely, insects.

The red-tailed amazon breeds in mangrove and coastal forests on islands. The breeding season lasts from September to February, when the parrots lay three or four eggs in a natural tree-cavities. The incubation period is 27 to 28 days, and the fledging period an additional 50 to 55 days.

Brazil's recent industrialization, accompanied by intense economic and population growth, is largely responsible for the parrot's endangered status. Every year extensive logging wipes out pristine plots of land once home to thousands of plant, insect, and animal species. Land areas equivalent in size to small countries are wiped out in a matter of months. This ongoing logging continues to destroy habitat and threaten the bird's limited geographic range. Extensive logging also destroys the native plant species that provide food and shelter for the birds. As a result, the birds are forced to relocate to less suitable areas. Frequently, the parrots are unable to locate food and perish.

14-8-2017 AMSTERDAM ZOO, NETHERLANDS - BLACK NECKED SWAN (Cygnus melancoryphus)

The black-necked swan (Cygnus melancoryphus ) is the largest waterfowl native to South America.

An unmistakable bird with bold patterns, Black-necked swans are characteristic and majestic inhabitants of southern South Americas wetlands. They are easily distinguished by their immaculate white body feathers that contrast sharply with their velvety black head and neck. The bill is blue-gray in color and has a noticeable, double-lobed scarlet-colored knob, called a caruncle, at its base. The eyes are surrounded by a thin white line which goes along the sides of the head to the rear. Males and females are similar in appearance, though females are generally slightly smaller. The juvenile does not have a caruncle, and has a head and neck that is more brownish-black, with varying amounts of brownish-tipped and grayish-flecked feathers.

The Black-necked swan inhabits southern South America, from Tierra del Fuego and the Falkland Islands northwards to Paraguay, central Chile, and southern Brazil. It lives in a wide variety of freshwater and saline habitats such as shallow coastal regions along the Pacific Ocean, estuaries, inland lakes, lagoons, and marshes. Particularly important are places that are rich with submerged aquatic vegetation.

These swans are highly social birds, and are gregarious outside of the time of the breeding season. They become territorial during the breeding season and divide up into mated pairs, nesting in small colonies or as solitary pairs, but they regroup once the young have hatched, each flock numbering thousands of birds. These flocks may move around, dependent on the climate and resources, but usually stay in the south of South America until migrating north. Black-necked swans are diurnal and most of their time is spent in water. If males need to defend their territory, they display aggressive behavior such as lowering their neck and thrusting the head forward. After fighting with beating its wings, the male returns to the female in triumph, continuously lifting its chin and calling.

14-8-2017 AMSTERDAM ZOO, NETHERLANDS - WREATHED HORNBILL (Rhyticeros undulatus)

The Wreathed Hornbill, also known as the Bar-pouched Wreathed Hornbill, is a majestic bird adorned with a long, curved bill featuring distinctive ridges or wreaths on the casque of the upper mandible in adults. The male of the species boasts a rufous crown, a white upper breast and face, and a striking yellow throat devoid of feathers. In contrast, the female is cloaked in black with a blue throat and is marginally smaller than her male counterpart.

To identify the Wreathed Hornbill, look for the pale yellow bill, black legs and feet, and the black band encircling the gular skin. Males are distinguished by their bright yellow throat and white neck, while females have blue gular skin. The species exhibits sexual dimorphism, with differences in plumage and gular skin coloration becoming more pronounced as the birds mature.

This hornbill favors the lush tropical evergreen forests, making its home in the verdant landscapes from the foothills of Northeast India and Bhutan to Bangladesh, Southeast Asia, and the Greater Sunda Islands.

The Wreathed Hornbill's range extends across the foothills and evergreen forests of Northeast India and Bhutan to Bangladesh, Southeast Asia, and the Greater Sunda Islands, including Sumatra, Java, Borneo, and several smaller islands.

The Wreathed Hornbill is a sociable creature, most active in the early mornings when it embarks on foraging expeditions for fruits. It forms larger flocks than other hornbill species and remains gregarious throughout the year. The bird is known to travel considerable distances in search of fruit, even flying between islands, though it does not migrate.

The Wreathed Hornbill's primary call is a resonant double yelp, often described as "coo-cuk" or "wuff-wurff." This call, typically repeated in sequences, can be heard from afar, with the second part being higher-pitched and louder. The bird also makes various other low-pitched, bisyllabic barking sounds.

The Wreathed Hornbill is a monogamous breeder, exhibiting biparental care. It nests in tree cavities in a range of habitats, including coastal forests and foothills. The female incubates and guards the eggs alone for 40 days, and the nesting cycle lasts between 111 to 137 days.

Primarily a frugivore, the Wreathed Hornbill feeds mainly on large fruits, such as figs, which it swallows whole, thus playing a crucial ecological role in seed dispersal. It also consumes small animals, particularly during the breeding season.

The Wreathed Hornbill faces threats from hunting, habitat fragmentation, and deforestation. It has been listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List since 2018, with the global population estimated to decrease due to these threats. International protection under CITES Appendix II and national protections in some range countries are in place to aid its conservation.

14-8-2017 AMSTERDAM ZOO, NETHERLANDS - NORTHERN BALD IBIS (Geronticus eremita)

The northern bald ibis, hermit ibis, or waldrapp (Geronticus eremita ) is a migratory bird found in barren, semi-desert or rocky habitats, often close to running water. This 70–80 cm (28–31 in) glossy black ibis, which, unlike many members of the ibis family, is non-wading, has an unfeathered red face and head, and a long, curved red bill. It breeds colonially on coastal or mountain cliff ledges, where it typically lays two to three eggs in a stick nest, and feeds on lizards, insects, and other small animals.

The northern bald ibis was once widespread across the Middle East, northern Africa, southern and central Europe, with a fossil record dating back at least 1.8 million years. It disappeared from Europe over 300 years ago, although reintroduction programs in the region are underway. In 2019 there were about 700 wild birds remaining in southern Morocco, and fewer than 10 in Syria, where it was rediscovered in 2002 but where their number declined in the following years, maybe to zero.

To combat these low numbers, reintroduction programs have been instituted internationally in recent times, with a semi-wild breeding colony in Turkey which counted almost 250 birds in 2018 as well as sites in Austria, Italy, Spain, and northern Morocco. These programs and the natural growth in Morocco from about 200 birds in the 1990s helped to downlist the northern bald ibis from Critically Endangered to Endangered on the IUCN Red List in 2018. There are about 2000 northern bald ibises living in captivity.

The reasons for the species' long-term decline are unclear, but hunting, loss of foraging habitat, and pesticide poisoning have been implicated in the rapid loss of colonies in recent decades.

The northern bald ibis is a large, glossy black bird, 70–80 cm (28–31 in) long with a 125–135 cm (49–53 in) wingspan and an average weight of 1.0–1.3 kg (35–46 oz). The plumage is black, with bronze-green and violet iridescence, and there is a wispy ruff on the bird's hind neck. The face and head are dull red and unfeathered, and the long, curved bill and the legs are red. In flight, this bird has powerful, shallow, and flexible wing beats. It gives guttural hrump and high, hoarse hyoh calls at its breeding colonies, but is otherwise silent.

The sexes are similar in plumage, although males are generally larger than females, and, as with other ibises that breed in colonies, have longer bills. The longer-billed males are more successful in attracting a mate. The downy chick has uniformly pale brown plumage, and the fledged juvenile resembles the adult except that it has a dark head, light grey legs, and a pale bill. The unfeathered areas of the young bird's head and neck gradually become red as it matures. Moroccan birds have a significantly longer bill than Turkish birds of the same sex.

If the eastern and western populations are considered to be separable subspecies, it is unclear which should be considered to be the nominate (first-named) form, since the first description of this species was based on a now-extinct population from Switzerland which is of unknown race.

The northern bald ibis is readily distinguished from its close relative, the southern bald ibis of Southern Africa, by the southern species' whitish face. The northern bald can also be confused with the similarly dark-plumaged glossy ibis, which overlaps its range, but it is larger and stockier than that species. In flight, when the bill and face colouration may not be visible, the bald ibis' less rounded wings and shorter neck give it a different profile from glossy ibis, and its relatively short legs mean that its feet do not project beyond the tail, unlike those of the glossy ibis.

14-8-2017 AMSTERDAM ZOO, NETHERLANDS - BLACK HEADED WEAVER (FEMALE)

The black-headed weaver (Ploceus melanocephalus ), also known as yellow-backed weaver, is a species of bird in the family Ploceidae.

Medium-sized weaver. Breeding males are striking with their black face and neck and dark brown irises contrasting with their yellow body. Females and non-breeding males are similar, with a yellow breast and white belly. Usually found in marshy areas with tall grass. Nest is built in a basket shape, weaving together grass and sticks hanging from trees.

Breeding males have a black head and yellow nuchal collar, which is absent in the Juba and golden-backed weavers. It also differs from the latter species and village weaver by its plain, greenish mantle plumage. The pale yellow underpart plumage is suffused with a variable amount of chestnut.

The female and non-breeding male lack the black head, and resemble a female masked weaver, except that they have dark eyes and a darker bill. Their buffy breast plumage also distinguishes them from non-breeding golden-backed weavers.

It occurs in West, Central, and East Africa, but it has also been introduced to the Iberian Peninsula. It is found in savanna and similar habitats, typically near water. It often lives on an Acacia tree 3 meter away from land to prevent predation.

The Black-headed Weaver, known scientifically as Ploceus melanocephalus and also referred to as the Yellow-backed Weaver, is a striking member of the Ploceidae family. The breeding male is particularly distinctive with its bold black head and contrasting yellow nuchal collar, a feature that sets it apart from its relatives, the Juba and Golden-backed Weavers.

During the breeding season, the male Black-headed Weaver can be identified by its black head and the bright yellow collar gracing the nape of its neck. The mantle is a plain, greenish hue, and the underparts are a pale yellow, often infused with varying degrees of chestnut. Females and non-breeding males lack the black head and are more easily confused with the female Masked Weaver, though they can be distinguished by their dark eyes, darker bill, and buffy breast plumage.

The Black-headed Weaver is typically found in savannas and similar environments, often in proximity to water sources. It has a particular affinity for Acacia trees, which it uses for nesting, usually situated about 3 meters from land to deter predators.

This species is native to West, Central, and East Africa. It has also expanded its range to the Iberian Peninsula, where it has been introduced.

The Black-headed Weaver is known for its elaborate nesting behavior, often constructing its nest in Acacia trees to provide a measure of safety from ground predators.

The vocalizations of the Black-headed Weaver are an integral part of its breeding display, with the male often singing to attract a mate.

The breeding male's plumage is a key aspect of its courtship display, with the black head and yellow collar playing a significant role in attracting females. It is also known for its elaborate nesting behavior, often constructing its nest in Acacia trees to provide a measure of safety from ground predators.

14-8-2017 AMSTERDAM ZOO, NETHERLANDS - BLACK HEADED WEAVER (JUVENILE) (Ploceus melanocephalus)

The village weaver (Ploceus cucullatus ), also known as the spotted-backed weaver or black-headed weaver (the latter leading to easy confusion with P. melanocephalus ), is a species of bird in the family Ploceidae found in much of sub-Saharan Africa. It has also been introduced to Portugal as well as to the islands of Hispaniola, Martinique, Puerto Rico, Mauritius and Réunion.

This often abundant species occurs in a wide range of open or semi-open habitats, including woodlands and human habitation, and frequently forms large noisy colonies in towns, villages and hotel grounds. This weaver builds a large coarsely woven nest made of grass and leaf strips with a downward facing entrance which is suspended from a branch in a tree. Two to three eggs are laid. Village weavers are colonial breeders, so many nests may hang from one tree.

Village weavers feed principally on seeds and grain, and can be a crop pest, but it will readily take insects, especially when feeding young, which partially redresses the damage to agriculture. The calls of this bird include harsh buzzes and chattering.

The first English name, "weever oriole" was given by John Latham, an early British ornithologist, whose work was often cited by Linnaeus. "Village weaver" has been designated the official name by the International Ornithological Committee (IOC). Other English names are "black-headed weaver", "Layard's black-headed weaver", "black-hooded weaver", "mottled-backed weaver", "mottled weaver", "spotted-backed weaver", "spot-backed weaver", and "V-marked weaver". Statius Muller gave it the German name Rappendrossel, and Brisson named the bird Le Pincon du Senegal in French and Fringilla senegalensis in Latin, both meaning "Senegal finch". In southern Africa, the bird is known as jesa in Shona, lihlokohloko in Siswati, letholopje in Sesotho, kwera nguya in Kiswahili, thaga in Setswana, ndzheyana in Tsonga, ihobo-hobo in Xhosa and ihlokohloko in the Zulu language. In West Africa, some common names are ɛ̀gà in Yoruba, àxà in Edo, àʃá in Igbo, ègwa in Nupe, and àga in Idoma.

14-8-2017 AMSTERDAM ZOO, NETHERLANDS - BLACK HEADED WEAVER (Ploceus melanocephalus)

The village weaver (Ploceus cucullatus ), also known as the spotted-backed weaver or black-headed weaver (the latter leading to easy confusion with P. melanocephalus ), is a species of bird in the family Ploceidae found in much of sub-Saharan Africa. It has also been introduced to Portugal as well as to the islands of Hispaniola, Martinique, Puerto Rico, Mauritius and Réunion.

This often abundant species occurs in a wide range of open or semi-open habitats, including woodlands and human habitation, and frequently forms large noisy colonies in towns, villages and hotel grounds. This weaver builds a large coarsely woven nest made of grass and leaf strips with a downward facing entrance which is suspended from a branch in a tree. Two to three eggs are laid. Village weavers are colonial breeders, so many nests may hang from one tree.

Village weavers feed principally on seeds and grain, and can be a crop pest, but it will readily take insects, especially when feeding young, which partially redresses the damage to agriculture. The calls of this bird include harsh buzzes and chattering.The Black-headed Weaver, known scientifically as Ploceus melanocephalus and also referred to as the Yellow-backed Weaver, is a striking member of the Ploceidae family. The breeding male is particularly distinctive with its bold black head and contrasting yellow nuchal collar, a feature that sets it apart from its relatives, the Juba and Golden-backed Weavers.

During the breeding season, the male Black-headed Weaver can be identified by its black head and the bright yellow collar gracing the nape of its neck. The mantle is a plain, greenish hue, and the underparts are a pale yellow, often infused with varying degrees of chestnut. Females and non-breeding males lack the black head and are more easily confused with the female Masked Weaver, though they can be distinguished by their dark eyes, darker bill, and buffy breast plumage.

The Black-headed Weaver is typically found in savannas and similar environments, often in proximity to water sources. It has a particular affinity for Acacia trees, which it uses for nesting, usually situated about 3 meters from land to deter predators.

This species is native to West, Central, and East Africa. It has also expanded its range to the Iberian Peninsula, where it has been introduced.

The Black-headed Weaver is known for its elaborate nesting behavior, often constructing its nest in Acacia trees to provide a measure of safety from ground predators.

The vocalizations of the Black-headed Weaver are an integral part of its breeding display, with the male often singing to attract a mate.

The breeding male's plumage is a key aspect of its courtship display, with the black head and yellow collar playing a significant role in attracting females. It is also known for its elaborate nesting behavior, often constructing its nest in Acacia trees to provide a measure of safety from ground predators.

The Black-headed Weaver can be confused with the Juba Weaver, Golden-backed Weaver, and the Village Weaver. However, its plain greenish mantle and the chestnut tinges on its underparts, along with the absence of a yellow nuchal collar in the Juba and Golden-backed Weavers, help in distinguishing it from these similar species.

Village weavers forage and roost in large groups, often with other weaver species. In some areas, they move periodically along fixed routes. The birds look for food on the ground, but also look up to search vegetation and trees. The village weaver nests in colonies and is very active during the breeding season. Birds fly in and leave again constantly, making a lot of noise. Colonies can contain as many as 150 nests, but anything between eight and a hundred nests in a single tree is usual.

A village weaver's nest is 14–17 cm (5.5–6.7 in) long and 11–13 cm (4.3–5.1 in) high. The entrance is mostly extended into a tube of 4–8 cm (1.6–3.1 in) long. The male weaves the structure of the nest using long strips of leaf, that he has torn from palms or large grass species such as Arundo donax. The nest is roofed, ovoid or kidney-shaped, internally consisting of a nesting chamber that is separated by a ground sill from an antechamber, that has the entrance of the entire nest at the bottom. On the inside, the ceiling is made of strips of grass or other leaves, which are simply inserted instead of woven-in. The floor on the inside is lined by short, thatched strips of palm, grass blades or heads, and feathers. The nest requires about three hundred long strips of leaf, which the male tears off and transports one by one. The male gathers building material throughout the building process, during which he works with his feet in exactly the same position, and maintaining the same orientation. He starts by creating the attachment by weaving around mostly two hanging branches just below a fork, a foot on both of them, which he includes in a ring he constructs by weaving in the plain of the branches at the edge of his reach. He than extends the high end of the ring in front of its head, gradually working towards his feet creating a half-globe, that is the nesting chamber. The male continues by constructing the roof of the antechamber, working over his head. This is followed by lining the ceiling, and constructing the entrance tube, hanging upside-down, but still with his feet at the same spots. The weaving technique consists of seizing a strip of near the end and double the strip back on itself. Next he pokes the end with a vibrating movement in between his previous work until it sticks. He then release it, moves his head to the other side of the nest wall, seizes the strip again and pokes it in somewhere. He keeps repeating this, regularly reversing the direction in which he weaves the strip, poking and pulling the strip through holes until the entire length is used. The female collects material too, but she occupies herself only with the lining of the nesting cup.