3-8-2018 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - EGYPTIAN STAR CLUSTER (Pentas lanceolata)

Pentas lanceolata, commonly known as Egyptian starcluster, is a species of flowering plant in the madder family, Rubiaceae that is native to tropical Africa from Sudan to Democratic Republic of the Congo and Mozambique, as well as Saudi Arabia and Yemen on the Arabian Peninsula. It is known for its wide use as a garden plant where it often accompanies butterfly gardens.

17-4-2018 CHOBE RIVER, BOTSWANA - AFRICAN ELEPHANT (Loxodonta africana)

The African bush elephant (Loxodonta africana), also known as the African savanna elephant, is a species of elephant native to sub-Saharan Africa. It is one of three extant elephant species and, along with the African forest elephant, one of two extant species of African elephant. It is the largest living terrestrial animal, with fully grown bulls reaching an average shoulder height of 3.04–3.36 metres (10.0–11.0 ft) and a body mass of 5.2–6.9 tonnes (5.7–7.6 short tons); the largest recorded specimen had a shoulder height of 3.96 metres (13.0 ft) and an estimated body mass of 10.4 tonnes (11.5 short tons). The African bush elephant is characterised by its long prehensile trunk with two finger-like processes; a convex back; large ears which help reduce body heat; and sturdy tusks that are noticeably curved. The skin is grey with scanty hairs, and bending cracks which support thermoregulation by retaining water.

The African bush elephant inhabits a variety of habitats such as forests, grasslands, woodlands, wetlands and agricultural land. It is a mixed herbivore feeding mostly on grasses, creepers, herbs, leaves, and bark. The average adult consumes about 150 kg (330 lb) of vegetation and 230 L (51 imp gal; 61 US gal) of water each day. A social animal, the African bush elephant often travels in herds composed of cows and their offspring. Adult bulls usually live alone or in small bachelor groups. During the mating season, males go through a process called musth; a period of high testosterone levels and heightened aggression. For females, the menstrual cycle lasts three to four months, and gestation around 22 months, the longest of any mammal.

Since 2021, the African bush elephant has been listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. It is threatened foremost by habitat destruction, and in parts of its range also by poaching for meat and ivory. Between 2003 and 2015, the illegal killing of 14,606 African bush elephants was reported by rangers across 29 range countries. Chad is a major transit country for smuggling of ivory in West Africa. This trend was curtailed by raising penalties for poaching and improving law enforcement. Poaching of the elephant has dated back to the 1970s and 80s, which were considered the largest killings in history. In human culture, elephants have been extensively featured in literature, folklore and media, and are most valued for their large tusks in many places.

A genetic study based on mitogenomic analysis revealed that the African and Asian elephant genetically diverged about 7.6 million years ago. Phylogenetic analysis of nuclear DNA of African bush and forest elephants, Asian elephant, woolly mammoth, and American mastodon revealed that the African bush elephant and the African forest elephant form a sister group that genetically diverged at least 1.9 million years ago. They are therefore considered distinct species. Gene flow between the two species, however, might have occurred after the split. Some authors have suggested that L. africana evolved from Loxodonta atlantica.

The fossil record for L. africana is sparse. The earliest possible records of the species are from the Shungura Formation around Omo in Ethiopia, which are dated to the Early Pleistocene, around 2.44-2.27 million years ago. Another possible early record is from the Kanjera site in Kenya, dating to the Middle Pleistocene, around 500,000 years ago.[10][11] Genetic analysis suggests a major population expansion between 500,000 and 100,000 years ago.[11] Records become more common during the Late Pleistocene, following the extinction of the last African Palaeoloxodon elephant species, Palaeoloxodon jolensis.

The African bush elephant has grey skin with scanty hairs. Its large ears cover the whole shoulder, and can grow as large as 2 m × 1.5 m (6 ft 7 in × 4 ft 11 in). Its large ears help to reduce body heat; flapping them creates air currents and exposes large blood vessels on the inner sides to increase heat loss during hot weather. The African bush elephant's ears are pointed and triangular shaped. Its occipital plane slopes forward. Its back is shaped markedly concave. Its sturdy tusks are curved out and point forward.[15] Its long trunk or proboscis ends with two finger-like tips.

2-8-2018 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - FUNNEL WEAVER SPIDER (Genus Textrix)

Textrix is a genus of funnel weavers first described by Carl Jakob Sundevall in 1833. They have a mainly European distribution, with one species in Ethiopia. The type species of the genus is Textrix denticulata.

The spiders in the genus Textrix have a strongly recurved posterior row of eyes with the medial eyes larger than the lateral eyes. They have a narrow head which is distinct from the thorax. These spiders may resemble wolf spiders as they are often recorded running about in sunshine, but their long and segmented posterior spinners are very marked and identify them as funnel web weavers.

17-4-2018 CHOBE RIVER, BOTSWANA - WESTERN CATTLE EGRET (Bubulcus ibis ssp. ibis)

The cattle egret feeds on a wide range of prey, particularly insects, especially grasshoppers, crickets, flies (adults and maggots), beetles, and moths, as well as spiders, frogs, fish, crayfish, small snakes, lizards and earthworms. In a rare instance, they have been observed foraging along the branches of a banyan tree for ripe figs. The species is usually found with cattle and other large grazing and browsing animals, and catches small creatures disturbed by the mammals. Studies have shown that cattle egret foraging success is much higher when foraging near a large animal than when feeding singly. When foraging with cattle, it has been shown to be 3.6 times more successful in capturing prey than when foraging alone. Its performance is similar when it follows farm machinery, but it is forced to move more. In urban situations, cattle egrets have also been observed foraging in peculiar situations such as railway lines.

A cattle egret will weakly defend the area around a grazing animal against others of the same species, but if the area is swamped by egrets, it will give up and continue foraging elsewhere. Where numerous large animals are present, cattle egrets selectively forage around species that move at around 5–15 steps per minute, avoiding faster and slower moving herds; in Africa, cattle egrets selectively forage behind plains zebras, waterbuck, blue wildebeest and Cape buffalo. Dominant birds feed nearest to the host, and thus obtain more food.

The cattle egret sometimes shows versatility in its diet. On islands with seabird colonies, it will prey on the eggs and chicks of terns and other seabirds. During migration, it has also been reported to eat exhausted migrating landbirds. Birds of the Seychelles race also indulge in some kleptoparasitism, chasing the chicks of sooty terns and forcing them to disgorge food.

17-4-2018 CHOBE RIVER, BOTSWANA - AFRICAN ELEPHANT (Loxodonta africana)

The African bush elephant (Loxodonta africana) is one of two living African elephant species. It is the largest living terrestrial animal and is distributed across 37 African countries. Since 2021, it has been listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. It is threatened foremost by habitat destruction, and in parts of its range also by poaching for meat and ivory.

The African bush elephant has grey skin with scanty hairs. Its large ears cover the whole shoulder and can grow as large as 2 m × 1.5 m (6 ft 7 in × 4 ft 11 in). Its large ears help to reduce body heat; flapping them creates air currents and exposes large blood vessels on the inner sides to increase heat loss during hot weather. The African bush elephant's ears are pointed and triangular-shaped. Its occipital plane slopes forward. Its back is shaped markedly concave. Its sturdy tusks are curved out and point forward. The trunk is a prehensile extension of the upper lip and nose. Short tactile hair grows on the trunk, which has two finger-like processes on the tip. This highly sensitive organ is innervated primarily by the trigeminal nerve and is thought to be manipulated by about 40,000-60,000 muscles. Because of this muscular structure, the trunk is so strong that elephants can use it for lifting about 3% of their own body weight.

They use it for smelling, touching, feeding, drinking, dusting, sound production, loading, defending, and attacking. Both sexes have tusks, which erupt when they are 1-3 years old and grow throughout life. Tusks grow from deciduous teeth known as tushes that develop in the upper jaw and consist of a crown, root, and pulpal cavity, which are completely formed soon after birth. Tushes reach a length of 5 cm (2.0 in). The tusks of males grow faster than the tusks of females.

African bush elephants occur in Sub-Saharan Africa including Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Zambia, and Angola. They move between a variety of habitats, including forests, dry and seasonally flooded grasslands, woodlands, shrubland, and wetlands to mountain slopes. In Mali and Namibia, they also inhabit desert and semi-desert areas.

1-8-2018 TANCAT DE LA RATLLA, VALENCIA - SQUACCO HERON (Ardeola ralloides)

The Squacco Heron, Ardeola ralloides, is a diminutive member of the heron family, measuring a mere 44–47 cm in length, with a compact body of 20–23 cm and a wingspan stretching 80–92 cm. This species is adorned with a buff-brown back and, during the summer months, adults boast elongated neck feathers that add to their allure.

In the field, one may identify the Squacco Heron by its stocky build, abbreviated neck, and stout bill. Its back is cloaked in a buff-brown hue. When in flight, the heron undergoes a remarkable transformation, revealing a predominantly white plumage that contrasts starkly with its resting appearance.

The Squacco Heron favors marshy wetlands in temperate regions for its habitat, where the water is warm and inviting.

Originating from the Old World, the Squacco Heron breeds in the southern reaches of Europe and extends into the Greater Middle East. When not breeding, it migrates to winter in the African continent.

This species is migratory by nature, seeking the warmer climates of Africa to spend the winter. It is seldom seen north of its breeding grounds. The Squacco Heron has been observed as a vagrant in the Fernando de Noronha islands and, on rarer occasions, in mainland South America. It nests in modest colonies, often in the company of other wading birds, and constructs its nests from sticks on platforms in trees or shrubs.

The Squacco Heron selects freshwater locales across Europe and the Middle East to breed, later migrating southward to the Sub-Saharan African region. During the breeding season, they lay a clutch of three to four eggs.

Adept at foraging, the Squacco Heron feeds on a diet consisting of fish, frogs, and insects, making the most of its wetland environment.

1-8-2018 TANCAT DE LA RATLLA, VALENCIA - EURASIAN TREE SPARROW (MALE) (Passer montanus)

The Eurasian tree sparrow (Passer montanus) is a charming passerine bird, easily recognized by its rich chestnut crown and nape, and a distinctive black patch on each pure white cheek. Both sexes are similarly adorned, and the juveniles mirror the adults, albeit with slightly duller hues. This species is somewhat smaller than the closely related house sparrow, and its size is approximately 12.5–14 cm in length, with a wingspan of about 21 cm.

To identify the Eurasian tree sparrow, look for the kidney-shaped black ear patch on each white cheek, the black chin and throat, and the light brown upperparts streaked with black. The wings bear two narrow white bars, and the legs are pale brown. The bill is lead-blue in summer, darkening almost to black in winter. Unlike the house sparrow, there is no sexual dimorphism in plumage, making both males and females equally easy to identify.

In Europe, the Eurasian tree sparrow is typically found in lightly wooded open countryside, while in eastern Asia, it is more common in urban settings. It prefers nesting in natural cavities, holes in buildings, or even the abandoned nests of other large birds. This species is not typically found in mountainous regions, despite its scientific name suggesting otherwise.

The Eurasian tree sparrow has a broad distribution across temperate Eurasia and Southeast Asia, and it has been introduced to other regions such as the United States. Its range extends from Europe across Asia to the Lena River and south to the northern regions of Turkey, the Caucasus, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, and North Korea.

1-8-2018 TANCAT DE LA RATLLA, 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.

1-8-2018 ULLAL DE BALDOVI, VALENCIA - MALLOW SKIPPER BUTTERFLY (Carcharodus alceae)

Convolvulus arvensis, or field bindweed, is a species of bindweed in the Convolvulaceae[1] native to Europe and Asia. It is a rhizomatous and climbing or creeping herbaceous perennial plant with stems growing to 0.5–2 metres (1.6–6.6 ft) in length. It is usually found at ground level with small white and pink flowers.

Other common names, mostly obsolete, include lesser bindweed, European bindweed, withy wind (in basket willow crops), perennial morning glory, small-flowered morning glory, creeping jenny, and possession vine.

Field bindweed was first described in 1753 by Carl Linnaeus in the Species Plantarum. In the following centuries, many subspecies, varieties, and synonymous taxa were discovered and described as purportedly new species in places including China, Russia, Egypt, and Morocco.[citation needed] New species and forms were described as far as Chile, Mexico, and the state of California when botanists encountered the plant there, although it is not native to these areas.

1-8-2018 ULLAL DE BALDOVI, VALENCIA - BLACK TAILED SKIMMER DRAGONFLY (Orthetrum cancellatum)

The black-tailed skimmer (Orthetrum cancellatum) is a dragonfly belonging to the family Libellulidae.

This species is widespread in Europe and Asia. It is found throughout European continent including the Mediterranean islands but is absent in the north of Britain and the northern half of Fennoscandia. This is one of the most common European species and it is still increasing its range northwards. To the east, the range extends over central Asia to Kashmir, Mongolia to the northern parts of China and Arunachal Pradesh in India.

It is present in Albania, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, China, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France (Corsica, and mainland), Georgia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, India, Ireland, Italy, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Tajikistan, Turkey (Turkey-in-Europe), Turkmenistan, Ukraine, Uzbekistan and in part of United Kingdom.

The black-tailed skimmer is abundant throughout its range and is one of the most commonly seen dragonflies in Europe. It holds a stable population and has no known major threats. 

This species has expanded its range, assisted by the creation of gravel pits which give it the extensive open unvegetated areas it prefers. It was first recorded in Great Britain in Essex in 1934. It is decreasing rapidly in the Maltese Islands.

This dragonfly is found at any open water with bare patches along the shore where the patrolling males frequently rest in the sun. It also inhabits near slow-flowing waters. It favors lakes, slow rivers, ponds and sometimes marshy area, without dense riparian vegetation. Females are less bold and not encountered as regularly. Adults prefer to perch on bare ground and rocks.

1-8-2018 TANCAT DE LA RATLLA, VALENCIA - GLOSSY IBIS (Plegadis falcinellus)

The Glossy Ibis, Plegadis falcinellus, is a wading bird of the family Threskiornithidae, known for its striking, sickle-shaped bill. This mid-sized ibis measures 48–66 cm in length, with a wingspan of 80–105 cm. Breeding adults boast reddish-brown bodies and iridescent bottle-green wings, while non-breeders and juveniles display a more subdued coloration. The species is characterized by a brownish bill, dark facial skin with blue-gray to cobalt blue borders, and red-brown legs. In flight, the ibis extends its neck and exhibits a graceful V formation.

When identifying the Glossy Ibis, look for its unique glossy feathers and the distinct shape of its bill. The bird's flight pattern is also a telltale sign, as it flies with its neck outstretched, unlike herons. Listen for its various croaks and grunts, particularly the hoarse grrrr sound during the breeding season.

The Glossy Ibis favors freshwater or brackish wetlands with tall, dense emergent vegetation such as reeds, papyrus, or rushes, and low trees or bushes. It can also be found in lagoons, floodplains, wet meadows, swamps, reservoirs, sewage ponds, rice paddies, and irrigated farmland. Coastal habitats like estuaries and salt marshes are less common for this species.

This ibis is the most widespread of its kind, breeding in warm regions across Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and the Americas. It is migratory, with European birds wintering in Africa and North American birds migrating southward. The species has been expanding its range, with increasing numbers in Europe and successful breeding in Britain as of 2022.

1-8-2018 TANCAT DE LA RATLLA, VALENCIA - SALTMARSH MORNING GLORY (Ipomoea sagittata)

Ipomoea sagittata, commonly called the saltmarsh morning glory, is a species of flowering plant in the morning glory family. It is native to the Caribbean, Mexico, and the Southeastern United States where it is found in coastal areas. It has been introduced in the Mediterranean Basin at least since the 17th century as a result of seeds transported in ship ballast soil, the ornamental trade or its uses in medicine. This species can be found in the wild in thickets on barrier islands, the edges of salt marshes, and in hammocks.

31-7-2018 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - CATALONIA WALL LIZARD (Podarcis liolepis)

 Podarcis liolepis, the Columbretes wall lizard or Catalan wall lizard, is very similar to the other lizards in the genus Podarcis. This species was formerly described as a subspecies of the Iberian wall lizard, but has now been elevated to species status. These are slender lizards with long tails, narrow tapered heads and long thin toes, and stout legs. Colours are variable, although generally grey-brown. Often very subtle spots and stripes along the back and flanks can be seen and these can be more distinguished in the female. The underside is a much lighter cream or beige with sometimes a reddish tint. Adults grow 15–20 cm in length from the nose to tip of the tail. Body length can be a little as one third of the total body length, the tail making up the other two thirds.

17-4-2018 CHOBE RIVER, BOTSWANA - MALACHITE KINGFISHER (Corythornis cristatus)

The Malachite Kingfisher (Corythornis cristatus) is a diminutive and vibrant river kingfisher, with a length of approximately 13 cm. It boasts a striking metallic blue on its upper parts and a rufous underbelly, with a distinctive black and blue crest adorning its head. The bird's bill transitions from black in its youth to a reddish-orange hue in adulthood, and it stands on bright red legs. Both sexes appear similar, though juveniles present a more subdued version of the adult's plumage.

When identifying the Malachite Kingfisher, look for its short crest and the contrast between the rufous face and underparts against the bright blue upper parts. The white throat patch and the red bill and legs are also key features. The bird's rapid, low flight over water, with wings a blur, is characteristic.

This species is commonly found amongst reeds and aquatic vegetation adjacent to slow-moving waters or ponds. It thrives in a variety of wetland habitats across Sub-Saharan Africa.

The Malachite Kingfisher is widely distributed across Sub-Saharan Africa, with its range extending from Senegal to South Africa. It is largely sedentary, with movements influenced by seasonal changes in climate.

The Malachite Kingfisher is known for its rapid flight, often skimming low over the surface of the water. It typically perches close to the water's edge, ready to dive for its prey.

The vocalizations of the Malachite Kingfisher include a variety of high-pitched, piercing calls, often heard during its undulating flight or when perched.

Nesting occurs in tunnels excavated within sandy banks, often positioned above water. Both parents partake in burrow construction, which tends to slope upward before reaching the nesting chamber. The species may lay three to six round, white eggs per clutch, with up to four clutches per breeding season. The eggs rest on a bed of fish bones and regurgitated pellets.

The Malachite Kingfisher is an adept hunter, often seen perched before plunging into the water to catch fish, aquatic insects, and crustaceans. It may beat larger prey on a branch before consumption, while smaller catches are swallowed whole.

The IUCN Red List classifies the Malachite Kingfisher as Least Concern, indicating a stable population across its extensive range.

31-7-2018 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - COMMON LANTANA (Lantana camara)

Lantana camara (common lantana) is a species of flowering plant in the verbena family (Verbenaceae), native to the American tropics. It is a very adaptable species, which can inhabit a wide variety of ecosystems; once it has been introduced into a habitat it spreads rapidly; between 45ºN and 45ºS and less than 1,400 metres (4,600 feet) in altitude.

It has spread from its native range to around 50 countries, where it has become an invasive species. It first spread out of the Americas when it was brought to Europe by Dutch explorers and cultivated widely, soon spreading further into Asia and Oceania where it has established itself as a notorious weed, and in Goa Former Estado da Índia Portuguesa it was introduced by the Portuguese.

L. camara can outcompete native species, leading to a reduction in biodiversity. It can also cause problems if it invades agricultural areas as a result of its toxicity to livestock, as well as its ability to form dense thickets which, if left unchecked, can greatly reduce the productivity of farmland by suppressing the pastures (grasses) essential for livestock production and also suppresses crops in cultivated farmlands.

17-4-2018 CHOBE RIVER, BOTSWANA - AFRICAN PIED KINGFISHER (Ceryle rudis ssp rudis)

The pied kingfisher (Ceryle rudis) is a striking water kingfisher, known for its black and white plumage and distinctive crest. It is a medium-sized bird, approximately 25 cm in length, with a white face featuring a black mask and a white supercilium. The male is characterized by a double band across the breast, while the female sports a single, often broken, breast band.

When identifying the pied kingfisher, look for its unique black and white barred pattern and prominent crest. The male's double breast band and the female's single broken band are key differentiators between the sexes. The subspecies vary slightly in size and coloration, with some having larger bills or reduced white in their plumage.

This kingfisher is commonly found perched along the edges of clear lakes and rivers, where it can easily spot and dive for fish.

The pied kingfisher is widely distributed across sub-Saharan Africa and southern Asia, from Turkey to India and China. It is a resident species, with most populations not engaging in long migrations.

The pied kingfisher is often seen bobbing its head and flicking its tail while perched. It is a sociable bird, known to form large roosts at night. Its flight is direct and rapid, sometimes reaching speeds close to 50 km/h.

This species is quite vocal, emitting sharp "chirruk chirruk" notes that contribute to its presence being easily detected.

Breeding season for the pied kingfisher typically occurs from February to April in India. They nest in holes excavated in vertical mud banks above water. The nests are tunnel-like, leading to a chamber where a clutch of three to six white eggs is laid. Cooperative breeding is observed in this species, with non-breeding offspring from previous broods assisting in raising the young.

24-4-2018 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA - SPECKLED MOUSEBIRD (Colius striatus ssp. striatus)

The Speckled Mousebird, Colius striatus, stands as the largest of its kind, reaching a length of about 35 cm, half of which is attributed to its elongated tail. This bird tips the scales at a modest 57 grams. Its plumage is a muted mousy brown, complemented by a pronounced crest atop its head. The upper bill is cloaked in black, while the lower bill exhibits a soft pink hue.

Distinguishing features of the Speckled Mousebird include its crest and the dual-toned bill. Variations among subspecies manifest in head contrast, throat color, barring extent, and iris hue. The White-headed Mousebird may appear similar, but the Speckled Mousebird's distinct bill colors and absence of a bare grey orbital patch set it apart.

The Speckled Mousebird thrives in a variety of settings, from savannas to open woodlands, and even in urban gardens and orchards. It tends to avoid rainforests and deserts, favoring open bushveld and areas with dense thickets.

This species has a broad range, from Cameroon across to Eritrea and Ethiopia, and southward to the southernmost tip of Africa. It is a common sight across Tanzania and is well-adapted to both wild and urban environments.

Social by nature, Speckled Mousebirds are often seen in groups, partaking in communal feeding and mutual preening. They exhibit a unique behavior of dust bathing on the ground and may ingest pebbles to aid in digestion. At dusk, they roost closely together, sometimes entering a state of torpor to conserve energy, relying on their numbers for protection against predators.

While not celebrated for melodious singing, the Speckled Mousebird is nonetheless vocal. It emits a warbling 'tsu-tsu' in flight and a 'tisk-tisk' alarm call when threatened.

Breeding can occur year-round, with nests being a collaborative effort between males and females. These nests are rather large and disheveled, made from various materials. Clutch sizes vary, averaging 3-4 eggs, with both parents and previous offspring participating in rearing. Incubation lasts about two weeks, and fledglings venture out at around 17-18 days, becoming independent after a month.

As a frugivore, the Speckled Mousebird's diet consists primarily of fruits, berries, leaves, seeds, and nectar. It exhibits regional preferences in its diet, selecting food sources specific to its habitat.

The IUCN Red List categorizes the Speckled Mousebird as Least Concern, indicating a stable population without significant threats to its survival.

30-7-2018 POTRIES, 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.

30-7-2018 VILLALONGA RESERVOIR, VALENCIA - APPLE MINT (Mentha suaveolens)

A variant of apple mint, pineapple mint, displays white variegation on its leaves, Pierce County, Washington

Mentha suaveolens, the apple mint, pineapple mint, woolly mint or round-leafed mint (synonyms M. rotundifolia, Mentha macrostachya, Mentha insularis),[1][2] is a member of the mint family Lamiaceae. It is native to southern and western Europe including the Mediterranean region. It is a herbaceous, upright perennial plant that is most commonly grown as a culinary herb or for ground cover.

Apple mint typically grows to a height of from 40 to 100 centimetres (16 to 39 in) tall and spreads by stolons to form clonal colonies. The foliage is light green, with the opposite, wrinkled, sessile leaves being oblong to nearly ovate, 3 to 5 cm (1.2 to 2.0 in) long and 2 to 4 cm (0.8 to 1.6 in) broad. They are somewhat hairy on top and downy underneath with serrated edges. The flowers develop in terminal spikes 4 to 9 cm (1.6 to 3.5 in) long and consisting of a number of whorls of white or pinkish flowers. Apple mint flowers in mid to late summer. The plant is aromatic with a fruity, minty flavour.

30-7-2018 VILLALONGA RESERVOIR, VALENCIA - NOMAD DRAGONFLY (FEMALE) (Sympetrum fonscolombii)

The red-veined darter or nomad (Sympetrum fonscolombii) is a dragonfly of the genus Sympetrum.

There is genetic and behavioural evidence that S. fonscolombii is not closely related to the other members of the genus Sympetrum and it will at some time in the future be removed from this genus.

Sympetrum fonscolombii was named under the protonym Libellula fonscolombii by the Belgian entomologist Edmond de Sélys Longchamps, in 1840, in honor of the French entomologist Étienne of Fonscolombe (hence the species name).[4] Its name is sometimes spelt fonscolombei instead of fonscolombii but Askew (2004) gives the latter as the correct spelling.

Sympetrum fonscolombii is a widespread and common species in much of central and southern Europe including most Mediterranean islands, North Africa, the Middle East, Mongolia, south-western Asia, including the Indian Subcontinent, the Indian Ocean Islands and Sri Lanka. In Europe it is resident in the south of its range but in some years it migrates northward. From the 1990s onwards has increasingly been found in northwest Europe, including Belgium, Sweden, Finland, Poland, Britain and Ireland. It is the only Libellulidae to be found in the Azores and it is also found on the Canary Islands and Madeira.

30-7-2018 VILLALONGA RESERVOIR, VALENCIA - COPPER DEMOISELLE DAMSELFLY (MALE) (Calopteryx haemorrhoidalis)

Calopteryx haemorrhoidalis is a species of damselfly in the family Calopterygidae known by the common names copper demoiselle and Mediterranean demoiselle.

This species is native to the western Mediterranean Basin in Europe (Iberia, southern France, Italy, Monaco) and North Africa (Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia). It is common in much of its range.[3][4]

It lives along rivers and streams, but also in sunny larger waters. Though it may be affected by habitat changes such as water pollution.

Calopteryx haemorrhoidalis can reach a body length of about 45–48 millimetres (1.8–1.9 in). The abdomen length is of about 34–43 millimetres (1.3–1.7 in) in males, of 31–43 millimetres (1.2–1.7 in) in females. The length of the wings is of 23–32 millimetres (0.91–1.26 in) in males, of 25–37 millimetres (0.98–1.46 in) in the females.

The males have a dark, metallic shining body, the color of which can be red-violet, golden or copper-colored. On the underside of the last three abdominal segments there red area, the so-called "red lantern" (hence the Latin species name haemorrhoidalis, meaning "blood flow"). The wings of males show a large dark area, while the females have a brown band to the wing tip and a metallic-green to bronze-colored body, with a brown belt on the back.

The flight time of this species ranges from May to September. The males have a characteristic mating dance, showing the abdomen end and spreading their wings wide. The male of this species is territorial, defending sites where females may choose to lay eggs.

This species can hybridize with Calopteryx splendens.

30-7-2018 VILLALONGA RESERVOIR, VALENCIA - EPAULET SKIMMER DRAGONFLY (MALE) (Orthetrum chrysostigma)

Orthetrum chrysostigma, the epaulet skimmer, is a species of dragonfly in the family Libellulidae. It is found in Algeria, Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ivory Coast, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya, Liberia, Libya, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Morocco, Mozambique, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, Sudan, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and possibly Burundi as well as Canary Islands, Israel, and Portugal. It was recorded in the Maltese Islands in 2010. One was also spotted in Tel Aviv, Israel in August 2022.

Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests, dry savanna, moist savanna, subtropical or tropical dry shrubland, subtropical or tropical moist shrubland, rivers, intermittent rivers, shrub-dominated wetlands, swamps, freshwater lakes, intermittent freshwater lakes, freshwater marshes, intermittent freshwater marshes, and freshwater springs. The adults prey on various flying insects. The bodies of adult males are blue, and those of young and females are yellow and brown.

30-7-2018 VILLALONGA RESERVOIR, VALENCIA - GREY HERON (Ardea cinerea)

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.

24-4-2018 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA - SOUTHERN FISCAL SHRIKE (lanius collaris)

The Southern Fiscal (Lanius collaris), is a striking bird of the shrike family, prevalent throughout much of southern Africa. It is colloquially referred to as the 'jackie hangman' or 'butcher bird', a nod to its unique habit of impaling its prey on acacia thorns, a larder for future feasting. This bird was once considered conspecific with the Northern Fiscal, Lanius humeralis, under the collective title of the Common Fiscal.

Adult Southern Fiscals measure between 21 to 23 centimeters in length. They exhibit a bold dichromatic plumage with crisp white underparts contrasting sharply against their sleek black upperparts. A distinctive white "V" marks their back, and their long black tail is adorned with white outer feathers and white tips. Both sexes possess a black bill, eyes, and legs, with the female distinguished by her rufous lower flanks.

The Southern Fiscal is an adaptable species, inhabiting a variety of environments from grasslands adorned with fences suitable for perching, to acacia thornveld and even woodlands. It tends to avoid overly dense areas that would hinder its hunting prowess.

14-4-2018 CHOBE RIVER, NAMIBIA - COMMON BULBUL (Pycnonotus barbatus)

The common bulbul, or Pycnonotus barbatus, is a passerine bird belonging to the bulbul family. It is characterized by a fairly short, thin bill with a slightly downward curve on the upper mandible. The plumage is similar for both sexes, featuring a dark brown head and upperparts. The bird's bill, legs, and feet are black, and it possesses a dark brown eye with an inconspicuous dark eye-ring. With a length of about 18 cm (7.1 in), the common bulbul has a notably long tail.

When identifying the common bulbul, look for its dark brown head and upperparts, and its long tail. The black bill, legs, and feet are also distinctive, as is the dark brown eye. The eye-ring may be difficult to discern. The bird's overall length and silhouette are key features to observe.

The common bulbul is adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats including woodland, coastal bush, forest edges, riverine bush, montane scrub, and mixed farming areas. It also thrives in exotic thickets, gardens, and parks.

This species is a widespread resident breeder across much of Africa, and has even been found breeding as far north as southern Spain. Its range extends from Morocco to Tunisia, southern Mauritania to western Chad and northern Cameroon, central Nigeria to Gabon and southern Congo, eastern Chad to northern and central Sudan and eastern Egypt, and in southeastern Sudan, western, central, and eastern Ethiopia, and Eritrea.