25-3-2018 CENTRAL PARK, CAPE TOWN - AFRICAN MONARCH BUTTERFLY (Danaus chrysippus ssp orientis)

Danaus chrysippus, also known as the plain tiger, African queen, or African monarch, is a medium-sized butterfly widespread in Asia, Australia and Africa. It belongs to the Danainae subfamily of the brush-footed butterfly family Nymphalidae. Danainae primarily consume plants in the genus Asclepias, more commonly called milkweed. Milkweed contains toxic compounds, cardenolides, which are often consumed and stored by many butterflies. Because of their emetic properties, the plain tiger is unpalatable to most predators. As a result, its colouration is widely mimicked by other species of butterflies. The plain tiger inhabits a wide variety of habitats, although it is less likely to thrive in jungle-like conditions and is most often found in drier, wide-open areas.

D. chrysippus encompasses three main subspecies: D. c. alcippus, D. c. chrysippus, and D. c. orientis. These subspecies are found concentrated in specific regions within the larger range of the entire species.

The plain tiger is believed to be one of the first butterflies depicted in art. A 3,500-year-old ancient Egyptian fresco in Luxor features the oldest known illustration of this species.

D. chrysippus is a medium-sized butterfly with a wingspan of about 7–8 cm (2.8–3.1 in). The body is black with white spots. The wings are a brownish orange, the upper side brighter and richer than the underside. The apical half of the forewing is black with a white band. The hindwing has three black spots in the centre. The wings are bordered in black and outlined with semicircular white spots. This species exhibits slight sexual dimorphism, as the male has large scent glands on his hindwings, which the female lacks. They appear as a large black spot with a white centre if viewed from the underside

D. chrysippus is a polymorphic species, so the exact colouring and patterning vary within and between populations.

It is similar in appearance to the Indian fritillary (Argynnis hyperbius), which may coexist with it.

26-3-2018 HERMANUS, SOUTH AFRICA - KELP GULL (Larus dominicanus)

The Kelp Gull, known scientifically as Larus dominicanus, is a robust seabird with a commanding presence along the coasts and islands of the Southern Hemisphere. This species exhibits a striking contrast between its black upper parts and wings, and the pure white of its head, underparts, and tail. The wingtips are adorned with small white "mirrors," adding a touch of elegance to its flight. Adult Kelp Gulls have a yellow bill marked with a red spot and legs of a greenish-yellow hue, which become more vivid during the breeding season.

To identify the Kelp Gull, look for its size, which is intermediate between the lesser and great black-backed gulls of the northern Atlantic. Adults typically measure 54 to 65 cm in length, with a wingspan of 128 to 142 cm. The bill and tarsus measurements are also distinctive, with the bill ranging from 4.4 to 5.9 cm and the tarsus from 5.3 to 7.5 cm. Juveniles can be recognized by their black bill, grey-brown plumage with whitish edges, and a dark band in the tail. They mature over three to four years, gradually acquiring the adult's pale bill base and predominantly white head and underparts.

Kelp Gulls favor coastal environments where they can be found on beaches, rocky shores, and islands. They are also known to frequent landfills, indicating their adaptability and opportunistic feeding habits.

The Kelp Gull has a widespread distribution across the Southern Hemisphere, with subspecies found in South America, the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, parts of Australia, New Zealand, Southern Africa, subantarctic islands in the Indian Ocean, southern and southwestern Madagascar, Antarctica, and Antarctic islands. The species is a rare vagrant to the United States.

25-3-2018 TABLE MOUNTAIN, CAPE TOWN - ZEBRA FINCH (Taeniopygia guttata)

The zebra finch is a small songbird from Australia known for its cheerful and social nature. Zebra finch care is not difficult, even for a beginner, making the birds popular as pets. They're relatively hardy birds, able to tolerate changes in their environment.

The zebra finch bird is soft gray, with red eyes, "tear drop" markings (small black lines running straight down under each eye), and bright orange legs and beak. The male zebra finch has a deeper reddish-orange beak, while the female's beak tends to have a lighter orange color.

The male zebra finch has black "mustache" markings, which are thin black lines running along both sides of their beak. The area between the mustache and tear-drop markings is usually white. On the outside of the tear-drop markings, the typical male finch sports rusty-orange cheeks. They have a "bib" of tiny black stripes from their beak down to their chest. Their tail has bolder black and white stripes. On their sides, they have chestnut-brown feathers with white spots.

Female zebra finches are almost entirely gray and don't sing like the males. When they're young, all zebra finches look like females, except their beaks are black instead of orange. Their adult colors appear when they're around 2 to 3 months old. Both males and females are quite small even as adults, reaching a length of about 4 inches and weighing less than a half-ounce on average.

Zebra finches are diurnal, so they're active during the day and sleep at night. In the wild, they live together in flocks of about 100 birds. During breeding, the large flock splits into groups of around 50 finches. The birds in this smaller group will allow each other to visit their nesting site but will drive away birds from other groups. They know each member by their song, which is unique to each individual male.

As they grow up, male zebra finches listen to the songs of the birds around them. They use bits of music from their relatives and other sounds they hear in the environment to create a complex song of their own. The males use songs along with a courtship dance to woo the females. Zebra finches are monogamous — they'll only mate with one partner and bond for life with their chosen mate.

25-3-2018 TABLE MOUNTAIN, CAPE TOWN - BLACK LEGGED NEPHILA (Nephila fenestrata)

Trichonephilia fenestrata is a species of nephilid spider known from Africa. It was first described by Tamerlan Thorell in 1859 as Nephila fenestrata, and was later moved to Trichonephila when it was elevated to genus status by Kuntner in 2019. Three subspecies are known from different parts of Africa. Males of this species often autotomize their legs as a counter-adaptation to the sexual cannibalism of females.

The female, with a body length of 20-30mm, is almost entirely black and the first, second and fourth pairs of legs have a brush of bristles on the tibia. The third pair of legs is the shortest with no brush. The abdomen is elongated (long oval) and is cream to yellow with the caudal section (towards the tail end) black or blue with speckles infusing forward into the yellow. There is a huge variation of abdominal patterns with the amount of black or blue on the abdomen. The key feature to identify this species is the black legs and window pattern ventrally.

Nephila fenestrata, the Black-legged nephila, occurs over most of South Africa, excluding the arid central and western regions, and is the only species of Nephila to occur in the Western Cape. Since 2002 this species has crossed over the Hottentots Holland mountain range and is now the most commonly seen orb-web spider on the Cape Peninsula. It can be seen from January till the end of June or even to the end of August, usually in forested areas or near areas with trees allowing for suspension of their large orb-webs. In Kirstenbosch and Newlands Forest one can easily see 30 or more of these spiders on a walk.

23-3-2018 BOULDER BAY, CAPE TOWN - AFRICAN PENGUIN (Spheniscus demersus)

The African penguin (Spheniscus demersus) is a species of penguin that lives in southern African waters. Like all extant penguins, it is flightless and adapted for a marine habitat. Once extremely numerous, the African penguin is declining rapidly due to a combination of several threats and is classified as endangered. It is a charismatic species and is popular with tourists.

The African penguin is a small to medium-sized penguin with black-and-white plumage, serving the animal as a perfect camouflage to protect it from predators. Due to the black feathers on their back, they merge with the environment, remaining unseen to those looking down from above. Meanwhile, the white coloration on the front part of their body allows them to be unspotted by aquatic predators, looking up from below. The penguins have a horseshoe-shaped, white-colored stripe on their face, stretching from around their eyes to their chest as well on the chin, towards the bill. Young penguins possess gray-blue feathers, which darken as they grow up.

African penguins are found along the coast of South Africa and Namibia. They do not migrate and live in colonies on 24 islands between Namibia and Algoa Bay, near Port Elizabeth, South Africa. African penguins spend most of their lives at sea and come ashore to breed and molt.

African penguins are both diurnal and crepuscular. By day, the birds hide in their burrows, escaping the sun. At twilight and dawn, they come out to forage. African penguins are highly social animals. Grooming is a common activity in these animals. They groom each other in order to clean the plumage, rearrange the feathers and take off parasites. In addition, grooming reinforces the social bond between a pair. During their courtship rituals, the birds are extremely noisy, emitting loud calls, which are quite similar to these of donkeys. In order to clean and cool themselves, they frequently take baths, making their bathing spots at a distance of just a few meters from the seashore.

These birds are monogamous, mating once in a lifetime. They can use the same breeding sites for many years. African penguins breed all year round with the peak period, occurring in February. Usually, the female digs a burrow or simply uses a hollow under a rock or bush, where she lays 2 eggs, after which both the male and the female incubate the eggs for up to 40 days. During the first month after hatching out, the chicks are fed and cared by both parents. Then they join crèches or groups of other chicks, where they find protection from predators. The chicks stay with their parents, until the age of 3-5 months, after which they leave the colony and start living independently. Male penguins become reproductively mature at 5 years old while females start to breed when they are 4 years old.

Commercial fishing negatively affects the population of the species, reducing prey items and leading to food shortages. Meanwhile, the African penguins compete with Cape Fur Seals for breeding areas as well as prey items. On the other hand, the penguins are threatened by their natural predators. For example, they are prey species for seals, while their eggs and chicks are a source of food for other predators in the area. In addition, these birds currently suffer from oil pollution.

The African penguin, known scientifically as Spheniscus demersus and colloquially as the Cape penguin or South African penguin, is a flightless bird distinguished by its streamlined body and flippers adapted for life in the water. Adults typically weigh between 2.2 and 3.5 kilograms and stand 60 to 70 centimeters tall. Notable for the pink patches of skin above their eyes and a stark black facial mask, their upper parts are a contrasting black against the white underparts, which are adorned with spots and a distinctive black band.

To identify the African penguin, look for the unique pink gland above their eyes, which becomes more vibrant as they regulate their temperature. Their black and white plumage is a classic example of countershading, providing camouflage from predators. Each penguin has a unique pattern of black spots on the chest, akin to human fingerprints. Males are generally larger with longer beaks than females.

These penguins are found along the coastlines of southern Africa, with colonies established on various islands and some mainland sites. They prefer nesting in burrows or under vegetation to protect against predators and the hot sun.

The African penguin is endemic to the southwestern coast of Africa, breeding on 24 islands between Namibia and Algoa Bay, South Africa. Notably, they have also established colonies on the mainland near Cape Town.

African penguins are monogamous and known for their loud, donkey-like calls. They are pursuit divers, hunting for fish and squid, and can travel up to 20 kilometers from shore. They are social birds, breeding in colonies and often forming crèches for their young.

The African penguin's vocalizations are varied and serve multiple functions, from mate recognition to territorial defense. Their most famous call is a loud braying, which has earned them the nickname "jackass penguin."

Breeding occurs throughout the year, with peaks varying by location. Nests are made in burrows or under cover to protect from the heat. Two eggs are laid, and both parents share incubation duties. Chicks join crèches after about a month, and parents continue to forage at sea to feed them.

The African penguin is similar in appearance to the Humboldt, Magellanic, and Galápagos penguins, with which it shares the genus Spheniscus. However, it can be distinguished by its unique chest markings and the single black band across the chest.

Their diet consists mainly of pelagic fish like sardines and anchovies, as well as squid and small crustaceans. They are known to consume up to 540 grams of prey daily, which can increase when feeding older chicks.

The African penguin is classified as Endangered, with a rapid decline in population due to several threats, including oil spills, historical exploitation for their eggs, competition with fisheries, and habitat degradation. Conservation efforts are underway, including habitat protection, pollution mitigation, and captive breeding programs.

24-3-2018 BOTANICAL GARDENS, CAPE TOWN - CAPE BULBUL (Pycnonotus capensis)

The Cape bulbul, Pycnonotus capensis, is a passerine bird of modest size, measuring 19–21 cm in length. It presents a predominantly dull, blackish-brown plumage, with a distinctive white eye-ring and vibrant yellow undertail coverts. A small crest adorns its head, and both the bill and the legs are a stark black, complementing the dark brown iris. The sexes are similar in plumage, making them indistinguishable in the field.

To identify the Cape bulbul, look for its darker plumage compared to other South African bulbuls. The white eye-ring is a key feature in adults, while juveniles can be recognized by their dark belly even before the eye-ring develops. The species' small crest and the contrast between the yellow undertail coverts and the dark body are also helpful markers.

The Cape bulbul is an endemic resident that favors coastal bush, open forest, gardens, and the unique fynbos vegetation of western and southern South Africa.

This bird is found exclusively in the aforementioned regions of South Africa, where it has adapted to a variety of local environments.

A common and conspicuous presence, the Cape bulbul is often observed perched atop bushes. It is an active and vocal species, typically encountered in pairs or small groups. These birds are known for their foraging habits, seeking out fruit, nectar, and insects to sustain themselves.

The most characteristic sound of the Cape bulbul is a melodious liquid whistle that varies in notes, often transcribed as "pit-peet-pitmajol" or "piet-piet-patata."

Breeding mainly occurs during the southern spring, from September to November. The Cape bulbul constructs a well-concealed, thick-walled cup nest within the foliage of a small tree or shrub.

Similar SpeciesWhile similar to other bulbuls in general shape and behavior, the Cape bulbul can be distinguished by its darker plumage, the white eye-ring, and the yellow undertail coverts.

The diet of the Cape bulbul consists of fruit, nectar, and insects, which it actively seeks out in its natural habitat.

The Cape bulbul is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating that, at present, there are no immediate threats to its population numbers.

In observing the Cape bulbul, one is treated to the delightful antics of a bird that is both a visual and auditory pleasure, a true gem of South Africa's avian community.

24-3-2018 BOTANICAL GARDENS, CAPE TOWN - CAPE ROBIN CHAT (cossypha caffra)

The Cape robin-chat (Dessonornis caffer) is a small, unassuming member of the Old World flycatcher family Muscicapidae. This bird, with its grey upper parts and vibrant orange underparts, measures a modest 16–17 cm in length and tips the scales at around 28 grams. Both sexes are similarly attired, making them indistinguishable in the field.

When observing the Cape robin-chat, look for the prominent white supercilium that contrasts with the blackish lores and ear coverts. The orange rump, upper tail coverts, and outer tail feathers are striking, particularly when the bird fans its tail, revealing the greyish-brown central and rufous lateral rectrices. The bill is short and black, and the legs and feet share this dark hue.

The Cape robin-chat is quite adaptable, favoring the edges of Afromontane forests, bracken-briar fringes, and even man-altered habitats such as city suburbs and farmstead woodlots. It thrives in environments that offer dense cover with interspersed trees or song posts.

This species has a disjunct range stretching from South Sudan to South Africa. It is a resident breeder in eastern and southern Africa, with some populations migrating short distances in winter.

The Cape robin-chat is a solitary creature, often seen hopping on the ground or perching conspicuously. It is known for its tail movements, frequently jerking it up or fanning it upon landing. This bird is also a daily bather and may even indulge in tide pools.

The Cape robin-chat's song is a melodious and ringing series of short phrases, often heard at dawn and dusk. Its alarm call is a distinctive, guttural trisyllabic sound, reminiscent of local names like “Jan frederik.” The species is also capable of mimicking the calls of other birds.

Monogamous and territorial, the Cape robin-chat builds a cup-shaped nest close to the ground, often concealed by vegetation. It lays two to three eggs, which are incubated primarily by the female. Both parents feed the nestlings, which fledge after about two weeks but remain dependent for a further five to seven weeks.

The Cape robin-chat is altitudinally segregated from the red-capped robin-chat and is less of a skulker compared to its relatives. It can be distinguished by its less colorful plumage and preference for drier or higher altitude habitats.

This bird forages for invertebrates, small frogs, and lizards within scrub or leaf litter, and also consumes fruit and seeds. It may occasionally hawk insects in the air or glean invertebrates from foliage.

24-3-2018 BOTANICAL GARDENS, CAPE TOWN - SWEE WAXBILL (coccopygia melanotis)

The swee waxbill, a diminutive bird measuring a mere 9-10 cm in length, presents a charming palette of colors. Its head and breast are cloaked in soft grey, while a pale yellow belly adds a splash of brightness. The back and wings are adorned in olive, transitioning to a striking red on the lower back and rump. A black tail completes the ensemble. Notably, the upper mandible is a stark black, contrasting with the red lower mandible. Males are distinguished by their black faces, whereas females exhibit grey faces. The juveniles, in comparison, are considerably more subdued in coloration and possess an entirely black bill.

When attempting to identify the swee waxbill, look for the distinctive coloration of the sexes, with males sporting black faces and females grey. The juveniles' duller appearance and black bill can also aid in identification. The bird's small size and the contrast between the black upper mandible and red lower mandible are key characteristics to observe.

The swee waxbill is typically associated with upland regions, favoring dry shrubland and open forest environments. However, certain subspecies have adapted to lowland areas and can occasionally be spotted in expansive gardens.

This species is known for its commonality and tame nature, often observed in small social groups. Unlike some of its kin, the swee waxbill does not congregate in large flocks. Its presence is often announced by a soft, melodious "swee, swee" call.

The call of the swee waxbill is a gentle and distinctive "swee, swee," a sound that resonates softly through its preferred habitats.

The IUCN has classified the swee waxbill as Least Concern, indicating that, at present, there are no immediate threats to its population levels that would warrant a higher degree of conservation action.

23-3-2018 BOULDER BAY, CAPE TOWN - HADADA IBIS (Bostrychia hagedash)

The Hadada Ibis, Bostrychia hagedash, is a medium-sized bird native to the diverse landscapes of Sub-Saharan Africa. It is characterized by its stout legs and distinctive down-curved bill. The adult Hadada Ibis typically measures around 76 cm in length and weighs approximately 1.2 kg. Both sexes share similar plumage, which is primarily grey to partly brown, with a striking iridescent sheen of green or purple on the wing coverts.

When observing the Hadada Ibis, look for the narrow white stripe across its cheeks, often referred to as the "moustache," though it does not extend to the mouth corners. During the breeding season, the bird sports a red culmen on the upper mandible's basal half and similarly colored upper toe surfaces. Its powerful and broad wings facilitate quick take-offs and agile flight through dense foliage.

The Hadada Ibis thrives in a variety of habitats, including open grasslands, savannas, wetlands, and increasingly in urban environments such as parks, school fields, and residential gardens. It prefers areas with moist and soft soils, which are conducive to its foraging habits.

This species is widespread across Sub-Saharan Africa, with its range extending from Sudan to South Africa. The Hadada Ibis has seen a notable range expansion in southern Africa, attributed to increased tree cover and irrigation in human-altered landscapes.

The Hadada Ibis is known for its social roosting behavior, often in groups atop trees. It is a diurnal bird, vocalizing loudly during morning and evening flights. Its diet consists of insects, millipedes, earthworms, and other small invertebrates, which it hunts using its long, scimitar-like bill to probe the soil. The Hadada Ibis is also appreciated in urban settings for its role in controlling pests on lawns and greens.

The Hadada Ibis is renowned for its loud "haa-haa-haa-de-dah" call, which is particularly prominent during flight or when startled. This call has earned the species its onomatopoeic name. While roosting, a single loud "haaaa" can be heard, and a low growl, akin to a young puppy's, serves as a contact call when foraging.

Monogamous by nature, Hadada Ibises maintain pair bonds year-round. Breeding is timed with the rainy season, with nests constructed as twig platforms in large trees. Both parents incubate the typical clutch of three to four eggs for about 26 days, and the fledglings leave the nest after approximately 33 days.

The Hadada Ibis can be distinguished from other ibis species by its unique vocalizations, the iridescent sheen on its wings, and the red coloration on its bill and toes during the breeding season.

Hadada Ibises primarily feed on soil invertebrates, which they detect using sensory pits around their bill tips. They are also known to consume snails and small reptiles, providing a natural pest control service in both natural and urban settings.

The IUCN Red List classifies the Hadada Ibis as Least Concern due to its extensive and common presence throughout its large range. The species has adapted well to human-modified environments, contributing to its stable population status.

23-3-2018 BOULDER BEACH, CAPE TOWN - CAPE GULL (larus dominicanus ssp vetula)

The "Cape gull" refers to the South African population of the kelp gull (Larus dominicanus vetula or Larus vetula). It is also sometimes treated as a separate species from the kelp gull. The Cape gull is distinguished by its darker iris, larger size, and shorter bill compared to other kelp gulls. 

While often considered a subspecies (L. d. vetula) of the kelp gull, some propose it should be classified as a separate species, L. vetula. 

Distinguishing features:

Size and Bill: Cape gulls are generally larger than other kelp gulls, with a more robust body and a shorter, more angular bill. 

Iris: The iris (colored part of the eye) is darker than in other kelp gulls. 

Plumage: Adults have black backs and wings, white underparts, and a yellow bill with a red spot. Juveniles have mottled brown plumage, a black bill, and a dark tail band. 

 

The Cape gull is found along the coasts of South Africa and is estimated to have around 11,000 breeding pairs, with a growing population. 

 

They are largely sedentary, often congregating in large colonies at favored coastal areas. Cape gulls are known to converge at popular feeding sites and can be aggressive predators. 

 

The Cape gull population is considered stable and potentially expanding. 

23-3-2018 BOULDER BAY, SOUTH AFRICA - KAROO PRINIA (karoo prinia)

The Karoo prinia, or spotted prinia (Prinia maculosa), presents itself as a small, active passerine bird, measuring between 13 to 15 centimeters in length. It is adorned with short, rounded wings, a longish tail that it often holds cocked, and robust legs. Its bill is short and straight, colored a deep black. The bird's head features a whitish eyebrow, while the upperparts are a plain brown. The throat and lower face are whitish with dark streaking, and the underparts are a pale yellowish white or yellow, marked with distinct black streaking. A notable dark spot near the end of the long tail adds to its distinctive appearance. The feet and legs are a pinkish-brown, and the eye is a deep, dark brown. Both sexes of the Karoo prinia are identical in plumage, though juveniles can be distinguished by their much yellower underparts and lighter streaking.

When identifying the Karoo prinia, look for the bird's whitish eyebrow and the streaked underparts. The tail is typically held at an angle and has a dark spot near the end. Juveniles are yellower below and less heavily streaked than adults.

20-3-2018 RETIRO PARQUE, MADRID - EURASIAN BLUE TIT (Cyanistes caeruleus)

The Eurasian blue tit (Cyanistes caeruleus) is a diminutive and vibrant passerine, a member of the tit family, Paridae. It is distinguished by its striking blue and yellow plumage and compact stature.

This species exhibits an azure-blue crown with a dark blue line passing through the eye and encircling the white cheeks to the chin. The forehead and a wing bar are white, while the nape, wings, and tail are blue. The back is yellowish-green, and the underparts are predominantly sulphur-yellow with a dark abdominal line. Both sexes are similar, but males may exhibit a brighter blue crown under ultraviolet light.

Eurasian blue tits are found in temperate and subarctic Europe and the western Palearctic, favoring deciduous or mixed woodlands rich in oak. They are adaptable and can thrive in tree holes or nest boxes in various environments, including urban areas.

The species is widespread and commonly breeds across Europe, extending into parts of the Middle East. It is a resident bird, with populations found from Ireland and the United Kingdom to Iran and northern Turkey.

Eurasian blue tits are known for their agility and acrobatic feeding habits, often hanging upside down on the outermost branches. They form mixed winter flocks with other tit species and are adept at ascending tree trunks in short hops.

Their vocal repertoire includes songs and calls used for territory defense, mate attraction, and communication. Alarm calls may be used to warn of predators, and a series of high-pitched notes are associated with courtship and copulation.

Nesting occurs in suitable cavities, with a preference for holes in trees or artificial nest boxes. The species is socially monogamous but may engage in extra-pair copulations. Clutch size can be large, with eggs laid in April or May.

Primarily insectivorous, the Eurasian blue tit's diet consists of insects and spiders, with seeds and other plant-based foods consumed outside the breeding season. Caterpillars are particularly important for feeding nestlings.

20-3-2018 RETIRO PARQUE. MADRID - BLACK SWAN (Cygnus atratus)

The black swan (Cygnus atratus) is a striking large waterbird, native to the southeastern and southwestern regions of Australia. It is characterized by its predominantly black plumage and a distinctive red bill, with a pale bar and tip. The legs and feet are a greyish-black hue. Males, known as cobs, are marginally larger than females, or pens, and possess a longer, straighter bill. Juveniles, referred to as cygnets, display a greyish-brown coloration with pale-edged feathers.

Adult black swans range from 110 to 142 centimeters in length and weigh between 3.7 and 9 kilograms. Their wingspan stretches from 1.6 to 2 meters. Notably, they have the longest neck relative to body size among swans, which is typically curved into an elegant "S" shape.

Black swans inhabit a variety of wetland environments, including fresh, brackish, and saltwater lakes, as well as swamps and rivers with abundant underwater and emergent vegetation. They are also found in permanent wetlands and ornamental lakes, and may occasionally venture into flooded pastures, tidal mudflats, or the open sea near islands or the coast.

20-3-2018 RETIRO PARQUE, MADRID - MONK PARAKEET (Myiopsitta monachus)

The Monk Parakeet, also known as the Quaker Parrot, is a small and vibrant green parrot with a greyish breast and a greenish-yellow abdomen. This charming bird is a member of the true parrot family, Psittacidae, and is known for its relatively long lifespan of 20-30 years.

Adult Monk Parakeets measure approximately 29 cm (11 in) in length with a wingspan of 48 cm (19 in), and an average weight of 100 g (3.5 oz). The species exhibits sexual dimorphism, with females being 10-20% smaller than males. They possess bright-green upperparts, a pale gray forehead and breast with darker scalloping, and very light-green to yellow underparts. Their remiges are dark blue, and they have a long, tapering tail. The bill is a notable orange color. Vocalizations include a loud and throaty chape(-yee) or quak quaki quak-wi quarr, and screeches skveet.

Monk Parakeets are adaptable birds that originally inhabit temperate to subtropical areas of South America. They are known to build stick nests in trees or on man-made structures, a unique behavior among parrots.

Native to South America, these birds are common in Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay. They have established feral populations in North America and Europe, mainly in urban areas and regions with climates similar to their native habitat.

Monk Parakeets are gregarious and often breed colonially. They construct large communal nests with separate entrances for each pair. These nests can become quite sizable and may house other species. The birds are known to have helper individuals that assist with feeding the young, a behavior known as kin selection.

The Monk Parakeet's call is a distinctive and throaty chape(-yee) or quak quaki quak-wi quarr, with screeches of skveet. These vocalizations are important for communication within the species.

These parakeets breed in colonies, with nests that can house multiple pairs. Each pair has its own entrance to the communal nest. They lay five to 12 white eggs, which hatch in about 24 days.

Monk Parakeets are known to feed on various seeds, fruits, and vegetation. In their native range, they are sometimes considered agricultural pests due to their feeding habits.

21-4-2018 OKAVANGO DELTA, BOTSWANA - YELLOW BILLED KITE (Milvus migrans ssp. parasitus)

The Yellow-billed Kite, Milvus aegyptius, is a bird of prey that is part of the Accipitridae family. It is distinguished by its entirely yellow bill, a feature that sets it apart from its close relative, the Black Kite. The adult Yellow-billed Kite is a sight to behold with its striking bill, while the juveniles bear a closer resemblance to the Black Kites of similar age.

To identify the Yellow-billed Kite, look for the characteristic yellow bill which is a key distinguishing feature. Adults have this prominent yellow bill, while the juveniles may require a more practiced eye as they look similar to the Black Kite juveniles.

The Yellow-billed Kite is a versatile species, found in a variety of habitats. These range from the green expanses of parks within suburban areas to the more natural settings, although they are seldom seen in the arid regions of the Namib and Karoo.

There are two subspecies of the Yellow-billed Kite. M. a. parasitus is found throughout most of sub-Saharan Africa, including Madagascar, but avoids the Congo Basin. M. a. aegyptius resides in Egypt, southwest Arabia, and the Horn of Africa, migrating south during the non-breeding season.

The Yellow-billed Kite is primarily an intra-African breeding migrant, present in Southern Africa from July to March, and occasionally until May. It is a common species, often seen gracefully soaring in the skies or scavenging for food.

This raptor has a varied diet that includes a wide range of small vertebrates and insects. It is an opportunistic feeder, often scavenging for meals.

The IUCN has classified the Yellow-billed Kite as Least Concern. There are currently no significant threats to the population of this resilient and widespread bird species.

20-3-2018 RETIRO PARQUE, MADRID - SHORT TOED TREE CREEPER (Certhia brachydactylba)

The Short-toed Treecreeper, Certhia brachydactyla, is a diminutive passerine bird, a master of camouflage with its mottled brown upperparts and whitish underbelly. This species, with its curved bill and stiff tail feathers, is adept at navigating the vertical world of tree trunks in search of sustenance.

When attempting to identify the Short-toed Treecreeper, look for its intricate pattern of black, buff, and white on dull grey-brown upperparts, a subtle off-white supercilium, and less vivid underparts compared to its throat. Both sexes are similarly attired, while juveniles may present with whitish underparts and occasionally a buff belly. Its bill is slightly longer and toes shorter than those of its common cousin, aiding in its identification.

This species is a resident of woodlands, showing a preference for mature deciduous trees and lower altitudes, particularly where oak trees are abundant. It tends to avoid pure coniferous stands, especially where its range overlaps with the Common Treecreeper.

The Short-toed Treecreeper graces the warmer regions of Europe and extends its reach into North Africa. It is generally sedentary, though vagrants have been noted beyond its usual breeding grounds.

This unassuming bird is solitary in winter, but may roost communally during cold spells. It ascends tree trunks in short hops, using its tail and feet for support, and exhibits an erratic, undulating flight pattern.

The call is a shrill "tyt…tyt tyt-tyt," while the song varies geographically, ranging from a simple sequence in Denmark to a lower-pitched variant in North Africa. The song is an important identifier, as visual differentiation from the Common Treecreeper can be challenging.

Nesting occurs in tree crevices or behind bark, with a clutch of about six eggs laid in a twig, pine needle, or bark nest lined with softer materials. The female incubates the eggs, and both parents feed the altricial chicks until fledging.

The Short-toed Treecreeper is often confused with the Common Treecreeper, which is whiter below and has a warmer, more spotted appearance above. The North American Brown Creeper also bears a resemblance but has never been recorded in Europe.

Insects and spiders gleaned from tree bark comprise the bulk of its diet, with seeds occasionally supplementing its winter diet. It forages methodically, spiraling up tree trunks and rarely descending headfirst.

The Short-toed Treecreeper is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, with a stable and extensive range and population. It is common throughout much of its range, though rarer in some locales such as the Caucasus and Channel Islands.

18-9-2017 ADOR, VALENCIA - BLUE WINGED GRASSHOPPER (Oedipoda caerulescens)

The blue-winged grasshopper, Oedipoda caerulescens is a grasshopper in the genus Oedipoda.

This species occurs in Europe, North Africa and Asia. It was recently rediscovered in the Maltese islands.

Oedipoda caerulescens is a medium-sized grasshopper, between 15 and 21 mm for males and between 22 and 28 mm for females. The body coloration varies greatly depending on the substrate on which the animals have developed: reddish brown, gray, yellowish, or even completely dark or bright. The forewings are crossed most often by two or three pale bands, but the most striking characteristic, very visible when the insect flies away, is the bright coloration of the hind wings, a beautiful turquoise highlighted with a black marginal stripe. Furthermore, the posterior femora have a notch on their upper surface. At rest, confusion is possible with other Oedipoda species such as O. germanica.

Oedipoda caerulescens frequents dry areas with low and open vegetation: dunes, heathlands, grasslands on sand and sunlit limestone rocks. Many stations correspond to land recently used for human activities, such as coal spoil heaps, quarries and pits, the ballast of railway tracks, etc. It is exclusively a terrestrial insect, and its cryptic coloration often matches its substrate. It presses itself to the ground and remains motionless, and jumps only at the very close approach of danger. A remarkable behavior is the "hook" landing which serves to confuse potential attackers. Thus, the grasshopper lands and swings round to face the direction it has come from. The sudden disappearance of the blue hind wings of the adult makes it difficult for predators to shift quickly enough to a different kind of search to relocate the prey. The female lays her eggs in bare, dry soil. In this species, acoustic emissions are virtually nonexistent. The diet consists mainly of grasses.

20-9-2017 TANCAT DE PIPA, VALENCIA - BLUE PLUMBAGO (Plumbago auriculata)

Plumbago auriculata, the Cape leadwort, blue plumbago or Cape plumbago, is a species of flowering plant in the family Plumbaginaceae, native to South Africa and Mozambique.

The specific epithet auriculata means "with ears", referring to the shape of the leaves. ,leaf venation - reticulate

Plumbago auriculata is an evergreen shrub, often grown as a climber, ascending rapidly to 6 m (20 ft) tall by 3 m (10 ft) wide in nature, though much smaller when cultivated as a houseplant.[6] The leaves are a glossy green and grow to 5 cm (2 in) long. The stems are long, thin, and climbing. The leaves alternate and are 2–5 cm.

The corolla with five petal-like lobes is about 2 cm wide and can be pale blue, blue or violet in color. There also variations with white (P. auriculata var. alba) or deep blue (P. auriculata 'Royal Cape') flowers. The flowers are complete and bisexual, and are arranged in corymb-like racemes. The sepals and petals are connate while the pistil is adnate. The ovary of the flower is superior and the flower has regular symmetry. It has basal placentation, with 1 locule and 5 carpels. It flowers mostly in the summer, but in the right conditions it can bloom year-round.

Native to South Africa, it extends from the Southern Cape region to Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal. It can also be found in Gauteng and the adjoining areas of Free State and the North West Province. There is also an isolated occurrence in Mpumalanga. Typically the species grows in bushes or thickets. As an ornamental plant, it is widespread today in the tropics and subtropics (including the Mediterranean region).

18-9-2017 ADOR, VALENCIA - LARGE PSAMMODROMUS LIZARD (Psammodromus algirus)

Psammodromus algirus, known commonly as the Algerian psammodromus, the Algerian sand racer, and the large psammodromus, is a species of lizard in the family Lacertidae. The species is endemic to western Europe and northwestern Africa.

P. algirus commonly reaches a length of about 10 to 15 cm.

P. algirus commonly reaches a snout–vent length of about 7.5 cm (3.0 in), occasionally 9 cm (3.5 in). The tail is 2–3 times the body length. Dorsal colouration is usually metallic brownish with a pair of conspicuous white or yellowish stripes on both sides.

Psammodromus algirus is found in Algeria, France, Gibraltar, Italy, Morocco, Portugal, Spain, and Tunisia.

The natural habitats of P. algirus are temperate forests, Mediterranean-type shrubby vegetation, sandy shores, arable land, pastureland, plantations, and rural gardens. (Miras et al. 2005)

Psammodromus algirus mainly feeds on terrestrial arthropods, specifically Orthoptera, Formicidae, Coleoptera, Hemiptera, and Araneae.

P. algirus typically occurs in dense bushy vegetation, but it can also venture to more open areas. It can be found at elevations up to 2,600 m (8,500 ft) above sea level, but it is more common at lower elevations.

P. algirus is threatened by habitat loss.

P. algirus commonly reaches a snout–vent length of about 7.5 cm (3.0 in), occasionally 9 cm (3.5 in). The tail is 2–3 times the body length. Dorsal colouration is usually metallic brownish with a pair of conspicuous white or yellowish stripes on both sides.