25-3-2019 VAL DE ENCANTADA, ALICANTE - HOUSE SPARROW (MALE) (Passer domesticus)

The house sparrow (Passer domesticus) is a member of the sparrow family Passeridae. This small bird typically measures around 16 cm (6.3 in) in length and weighs between 24–39.5 g (0.85–1.39 oz). The species exhibits sexual dimorphism, with females and young birds displaying pale brown and grey plumage, while males are characterized by more vibrant black, white, and brown markings.

Males can be identified by their bright black, white, and brown markings, with a distinctive black bib, white cheeks, and a grey crown. Females lack the striking head patterns of males and are predominantly buffish with softer coloration. Juveniles resemble adult females but are generally paler with less defined markings.

The house sparrow is highly adaptable and can thrive in both urban and rural environments. It is commonly found in close association with human habitation and avoids dense forests, grasslands, polar regions, and deserts far from human development.

25-3-2019 VAL DE ENCANTADA, ALICANTE - COMMON POPPY (Papaver rhoeas)

Papaver rhoeas, with common names including common poppy, corn poppy, corn rose, field poppy, Flanders poppy, red poppy, and Odai, is an annual herbaceous species of flowering plant in the poppy family Papaveraceae. It is native to north Africa and temperate Eurasia and is introduced into temperate areas on all other continents except Antarctica.

It is regarded as an agricultural weed (hence the common names including "corn" and "field"). As the plant thrives in areas of disturbed soil, it was often abundant in agricultural fields before the advent of herbicides. Flushes of poppies may still appear in fields where herbicides are not used, as well as those in fallow. The corn poppy and its cultivars such as the Shirley poppy are widely grown in gardens, and are frequently found in packets of seed labelled "wildflower mixes". Since World War I, it has been used in the Commonwealth as a symbol of remembrance for fallen soldiers because it commonly grew in fields disturbed by war.

25-3-2019 VAL DE ENCANTADA, ALICANTE - SWEET ALYSSUM (Lobularia maritima)

Lobularia maritima (syn. Alyssum maritimum) is a species of low-growing flowering plant in the family Brassicaceae. Its common name is sweet alyssum or sweet Alison, also commonly referred to as just alyssum (from the genus Alyssum in which it was formerly classified).

Lobularia maritima is an annual plant (rarely a short-lived perennial plant) growing to 5–30 cm (2–12 in) tall by 20–30 cm (8–12 in) broad. The stem is very branched, with dense clusters of small flowers. The leaves are 1–4 cm long and 3–5 mm, broad, alternate, sessile, quite hairy, oval to lanceolate, with an entire margin.

The flowers are about 5 millimetres (0.20 in) in diameter, sweet-smelling, with an aroma similar to that of honey, with four white rounded petals (or pink, rose-red, violet. yellow and lilac) and four sepals. The six stamens have yellow anthers. The flowers are produced throughout the growing season, or year-round in areas free of frost. They are pollinated by insects (entomophily) as its sweet honey-like fragrance is attractive to bees, flower flies, stingless wasps and butterflies. The fruits are numerous elongated seedpods rather hairy, oval to rounded, each containing two seeds. The dispersal of seed is affected by the wind (anemochory).

25-3-2019 VAL DE ENCANTADA, ALICANTE - WHITE WALL ROCKET (Diplotaxis erucoides)

25-3-2019 VAL DE ENCANTADA, ALICANTE - LAURUSTINUS VIBURNUM (Viburnum tinus)

Viburnum tinus, the laurustinus, laurustine or laurestine, is a species of flowering plant in the family Adoxaceae, native to the Mediterranean area of Europe and North Africa. Laurus signifies the leaves' similarities to bay laurel.

It is a shrub (rarely a small tree) reaching 2–7 m (7–23 ft) tall and 3 m (10 ft) broad, with a dense, rounded crown. The leaves are evergreen, persisting 2–3 years, ovate to elliptic, borne in opposite pairs, 4–10 cm long and 2–4 cm broad, fine hairs persisting on the underside, with an entire margin.

The flowers are small, white or light pink, produced from reddish-pink buds in dense cymes 5–10 cm diameter in the winter. The fragrant flowers (some consider the fragrance offensive, especially after rain when it is very strong) are bisexual (monoecious — having both male and female parts on one plant) and pentamerous. The flowering period is in winter, or from October to June in the northern hemisphere. The five petals are tubular, with rounded, corolla lobes, pink in the bud but later white. There is only one whorl with five stamens. Pollination is by insects. The fruit is a dark blue-black drupe 5–7 mm long. A 2020 study of the fruit's metallic blue hue revealed microscopic globules of fat to be the cause, an example of structural color, which is unusual in plants.

The leaves have domatia where predatory and microbivorous mites can be housed.

25-3-2019 VAL DE ENCANTADA, ALICANTE - PALMATE ANEMONE (Anemone palmata)

Anemone palmata is a species of bright yellow, daisy-like flower native to the Iberian Peninsula, Southern France, Sardinia, and Sicily. It belongs to the buttercup family and can be found in damp, rocky, or open woodland habitats, blooming from March to May. It is sometimes called the palmate anemone, yellow anemone, or cyclamen-leaved windflower. 

Botanical characteristics

Height: Grows to between 15 and 45 cm tall.

Leaves: Has succulent, rounded basal leaves with 3 to 5 shallow lobes.

Flowers: Produces solitary or paired, bright yellow, saucer-shaped flowers 2.5–3.5 cm across with 10–15 oblong petals. The outer surface is often tinged red.

Other: A white form of this flower also exists. 

17-4-2018 CHOBE RIVER, BOTSWANA - AFRICAN FISH EAGLE (Haliaeetus vocifer)

The African fish eagle, or African sea eagle, is a majestic bird of prey that graces the skies of sub-Saharan Africa. It is a symbol of national pride, being the national bird of Malawi, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. This raptor is known for its striking appearance, with a mostly brown body contrasted by a snow-white head, breast, and tail. The face is featherless and a vivid yellow, matching the color of its formidable, hooked beak, tipped in black. The African fish eagle's eyes are a deep, dark brown, and its powerful black wings carry it effortlessly over open waters.

Adult African fish eagles are unmistakable with their white heads and chests, brown bodies, and large black wings. Females are larger than males, with wingspans reaching up to 2.4 meters, compared to the 2-meter span of males. Juveniles can be identified by their overall brown plumage and paler eyes. The species exhibits sexual dimorphism, with females being heavier, weighing between 3.2 to 3.6 kilograms, while males weigh between 2.0 to 2.5 kilograms.

17-4-2018 CHOBE RIVER, BOTSWANA - GREATER KUDU (Tragelaphus Strepsiceros)

The Greater kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros) is a woodland antelope found in Africa. Despite occupying such widespread territory, Greater kudus are sparsely populated in most areas due to declining habitat, deforestation, and poaching.

Greater kudus have a narrow body with long legs, and their coats can range from brown/bluish-grey to reddish-brown. They possess between 4 and 12 vertical white stripes along their torso. The head is usually darker in color than the rest of the body and exhibits a small white v-shaped mark that runs between the eyes. Bulls tend to be much larger than cows, and vocalize much more; they also have beards running along their throats and large horns with two and a half twists.

24-3-2019 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - WESTERN HONEY BEE ( Apis mellifera)

The western honey bee or European honey bee (Apis mellifera) is the most common of the 7–12 species of honey bees worldwide. The genus name Apis is Latin for 'bee', and mellifera is the Latin for 'honey-bearing' or 'honey-carrying', referring to the species' production of honey.

Like all honey bee species, the western honey bee is eusocial, creating colonies with a single fertile female (or "queen"), many normally non-reproductive females or "workers", and a small proportion of fertile males or "drones". Individual colonies can house tens of thousands of bees. Colony activities are organized by complex communication between individuals, through both pheromones and the dance language.

The western honey bee was one of the first domesticated insects, and it is the primary species maintained by beekeepers to this day for both its honey production and pollination activities. With human assistance, the western honey bee now occupies every continent except Antarctica. Western honey bees are threatened by pests and diseases, especially the Varroa mite and colony collapse disorder. There are indications that the species is rare, if not extinct in the wild in Europe and as of 2014, the western honey bee was assessed as "Data Deficient" on the IUCN Red List. Numerous studies indicate that the species has undergone significant declines in Europe; however, it is not clear if they refer to population reduction of wild or managed colonies. Further research is required to enable differentiation between wild and non-wild colonies in order to determine the conservation status of the species in the wild, meaning self sustaining, without treatments or management.

24-3-2019 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - HOUSE SPARROW (FEMALE) (Passer domesticus)

The house sparrow (Passer domesticus) is a member of the sparrow family Passeridae. This small bird typically measures around 16 cm (6.3 in) in length and weighs between 24–39.5 g (0.85–1.39 oz). The species exhibits sexual dimorphism, with females and young birds displaying pale brown and grey plumage, while males are characterized by more vibrant black, white, and brown markings.

Males can be identified by their bright black, white, and brown markings, with a distinctive black bib, white cheeks, and a grey crown. Females lack the striking head patterns of males and are predominantly buffish with softer coloration. Juveniles resemble adult females but are generally paler with less defined markings.

The house sparrow is highly adaptable and can thrive in both urban and rural environments. It is commonly found in close association with human habitation and avoids dense forests, grasslands, polar regions, and deserts far from human development.

24-3-2019 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - HOUSE SPARROW (MALE) (Passer domesticus)

The house sparrow (Passer domesticus) is a member of the sparrow family Passeridae. This small bird typically measures around 16 cm (6.3 in) in length and weighs between 24–39.5 g (0.85–1.39 oz). The species exhibits sexual dimorphism, with females and young birds displaying pale brown and grey plumage, while males are characterized by more vibrant black, white, and brown markings.

Males can be identified by their bright black, white, and brown markings, with a distinctive black bib, white cheeks, and a grey crown. Females lack the striking head patterns of males and are predominantly buffish with softer coloration. Juveniles resemble adult females but are generally paler with less defined markings.

The house sparrow is highly adaptable and can thrive in both urban and rural environments. It is commonly found in close association with human habitation and avoids dense forests, grasslands, polar regions, and deserts far from human development.

24-3-2019 PLAYA DE CULLERA, VALENCIA - PIG'S EAR (Cotyledon orbiculata)

24-3-2019 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - NATAL LILY (Clivia miniata)

24-3-2019 PLAYA DE CULLERA, VALENCIA - SEA FIG (Carpobrotus edulis)

Carpobrotus edulis is a creeping plant with succulent leaves in the genus Carpobrotus, native to South Africa. Its common names include hottentot-fig, sour fig, ice plant, highway ice plant, or vygie.

Carpobrotus edulis is a creeping, mat-forming succulent species. It grows year round, with individual shoot segments growing more than 1 m (3 ft) per year.[citation needed] It can grow to at least 50 m (165 ft) in diameter. The leaves are a dull-green or yellow-green colour that may fade to pink with age. They are very slightly curved and have serrated sides near the tips.

The yellow flowers are produced from April to October, and range from 6.4 to 15.2 centimetres (2+1⁄2 to 6 inches) in diameter. Two of the calyx lobes are longer, extending further than the petals. The flowers open in the morning in bright sunlight and close at night. The receptacle is somewhat wedge-shaped, tapering down to the pedicel. The fruit is multi-chambered, ripening from green to yellow.

The sour fig grows on coastal and inland slopes in South Africa from Namaqualand in the Northern Cape through the Western Cape to the Eastern Cape. It is often seen as a pioneer on disturbed sites.

Carpobrotus edulis has naturalised in many other regions throughout the world, and is an invasive species in several parts, notably Australia, California and the Mediterranean, all of which have similar climates. The species has escaped from cultivation and has become invasive, posing a serious ecological problem by forming vast monospecific zones, lowering biodiversity, and competing directly with several threatened or endangered plant species for nutrients, water, light, and space.

The success of C. edulis as an invader is linked to its stoloniferous growth habit and clonal integration, traits commonly associated with invasive species. Physiological integration between ramets increases survival, biomass accumulation and clonal spread especially where competing with native species. The species often exhibits greater phenotypic plasticity than many native species, enabling it to establish and expand into under contrasting conditions including shaded coastal cliffs and nutrient-enriched sites. Such plasticity has raised concerns about its continual spread, especially in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Through hybridization, invasive C. edulis can gain genetic diversity and novel traits that further enhance its adaptability. The species readily engages in genetic exchanges with other Carpobrotus, such as C. chilensis, leading to hybrid variants with unique genetic combinations that allow them to thrive and outcompete native flora. Analysis of chloroplast DNA has revealed a large amount of genetic similarities between C. edulis and C. chilensis, indicating that the two may share a common ancestor.

24-3-2019 PLAYA DE CULLERA, VALENCIA - COMMON MALLOW (Malva sylvestris)

Malva sylvestris is a species of the mallow genus Malva, of which it the type species. Known as common mallow to English-speaking Europeans, it acquired the common names of cheeses, high mallow and tall mallow (mauve des bois by the French as it migrated from its native home in Western Europe, North Africa and Asia through the English-speaking world.

M. sylvestris is a vigorous plant with showy flowers of bright mauve-purple, with dark veins, standing 0.91–1.22 metres (3–4 ft) high and growing freely in meadows, hedgerows and in fallow fields.

24-3-2019 PLAYA DE CULLERA, VALENCIA - LITTLE EGRET (Egretta garzetta)

24-3-2019 PLAYA DE CULLERA, VALENCIA - SEA FIG (Carpobrotus edulis)

Carpobrotus edulis is a creeping plant with succulent leaves in the genus Carpobrotus, native to South Africa. Its common names include hottentot-fig, sour fig, ice plant, highway ice plant, or vygie.

Carpobrotus edulis is a creeping, mat-forming succulent species. It grows year round, with individual shoot segments growing more than 1 m (3 ft) per year.[citation needed] It can grow to at least 50 m (165 ft) in diameter. The leaves are a dull-green or yellow-green colour that may fade to pink with age. They are very slightly curved and have serrated sides near the tips.

The yellow flowers are produced from April to October, and range from 6.4 to 15.2 centimetres (2+1⁄2 to 6 inches) in diameter. Two of the calyx lobes are longer, extending further than the petals. The flowers open in the morning in bright sunlight and close at night. The receptacle is somewhat wedge-shaped, tapering down to the pedicel. The fruit is multi-chambered, ripening from green to yellow.

The sour fig grows on coastal and inland slopes in South Africa from Namaqualand in the Northern Cape through the Western Cape to the Eastern Cape. It is often seen as a pioneer on disturbed sites.

Carpobrotus edulis has naturalised in many other regions throughout the world, and is an invasive species in several parts, notably Australia, California and the Mediterranean, all of which have similar climates. The species has escaped from cultivation and has become invasive, posing a serious ecological problem by forming vast monospecific zones, lowering biodiversity, and competing directly with several threatened or endangered plant species for nutrients, water, light, and space.

24-3-2019 MARJAL CULLERA, VALENCIA - EURASIAN COOT (Fulica atra)

The Eurasian Coot is all-black and larger than its cousin, the Moorhen. It has a distinctive white beak and 'shield' above the beak which earns it the title 'bald'. Its feet have lobed flaps of skin on the toes which act in the same way as webbed feet when swimming. It patters noisily over the water before taking off and can be very aggressive towards others.

European Coot, also known as the Eurasian Coot, is a bird species commonly found in Europe and Asia. They belong to the Rallidae family and are easily recognizable by their black plumage and distinctive white beak.

Here are 10 interesting facts about the European Coot:

European Coots have a wingspan of up to 75 cm and can weigh up to 1.2 kg.

These birds are excellent swimmers and divers, using their lobed toes to propel through the water.

European Coots are omnivores and feed on various foods, including aquatic plants, insects, and small fish.

During the breeding season, these birds are highly territorial and will aggressively defend their nests against intruders.

European Coots have a unique way of feeding their chicks, producing a particular type of milk in their crop that they regurgitate and feed to their young.

 

These birds are highly adaptable and can live in various habitats, from lakes and rivers to city parks and gardens.

European Coots have distinctive white beaks and red eyes, thought to be an adaptation for better underwater vision.

These birds are monogamous during the breeding season but may mate with different partners in subsequent years.

European Coots have a lifespan of up to 17 years in the wild.

Despite their common name, European Coots are also found in parts of Asia, including China, Japan, and Korea.

24-3-2019 MARJAL DE CULLERA, VALENCIA - FANTAIL WARBLER (Cisticola juncidis)

24-3-2019 MARJAL CULLERA, VALENCIA - GLOSSY IBIS (Plegadis falcinellus)

17-4-2018 CHOBE RIVER, BOTSWANA - WHITE HEADED LAPWING (Vanellus albiceps)

The White-crowned Lapwing, also known as the White-headed Lapwing, White-headed Plover, or White-crowned Plover, is a medium-sized wader that presents a striking appearance. Its upper body is adorned with a brown back, while the wings and tail exhibit a bold black and white pattern. The underparts are a clean white. The head is particularly distinctive with a grey base, a brilliant white crown, and a white foreneck. Adding to its unique visage are the yellow eyering, facial wattles, and legs. Both sexes and juveniles share a similar plumage, making them indistinguishable in the field.

When attempting to identify the White-crowned Lapwing, look for the unmistakable combination of its white crown, grey head, and the contrasting black and white patterns on its wings and tail. The yellow eyering and wattles are also key features that aid in its identification.

This species is typically found in tropical Africa, favoring habitats near large rivers. It thrives in areas where sand or shingle is exposed, providing suitable breeding grounds.

The White-crowned Lapwing is a resident bird throughout tropical Africa, maintaining a presence year-round near its preferred riverine environments.

The White-crowned Lapwing is known for its breeding behavior, where it lays 2-3 eggs in a ground scrape near rivers. It is fiercely protective of its nest and young, defending them with vigor against any potential threats, regardless of size. Outside of breeding season, it is common to see these birds feeding in small flocks, where they forage for insects and other small invertebrates.

17-4-2018 CHOBE RIVER, BOTSWANA - 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.

17-4-2018 CHOBE RIVER, BOTSWANA - AFRICAN JACANA (Actophilornis africanus)

The African Jacana, Actophilornis africanus, is a distinctive wader known for its remarkable ability to traverse floating vegetation with its elongated toes and claws. This bird exhibits a striking chestnut plumage on its upperparts, complemented by black wingtips, rear neck, and an eyestripe. Adults boast a chestnut underpart, while juveniles display a white underpart with a chestnut belly patch. A blue bill, extending into a coot-like head shield, and grey legs and toes complete its unique appearance.

To identify the African Jacana, look for its long toes and claws, which are adapted for walking on lily pads and other floating vegetation. The adult's chestnut underparts contrast with the juveniles' white underparts and chestnut belly patch. The blue bill with a frontal shield and the bird's size, ranging from 23 to 31 cm in length, are also key identification features.

18-3-2019 BARX, VALENCIA - SCORPION VETCH (Genus Coronilla)

The genus Coronilla contains 8 species of flowering plants native to Europe and North Africa. It contained about 20 species until Securigera was split off.

Species include:

Coronilla coronata

Coronilla juncea

Coronilla minima

Coronilla ramosissima

Coronilla repanda

Coronilla scorpioides

Coronilla vaginalis

Coronilla valentina

Species that were part of the genus include:

Securigera elegans

Securigera orientalis

Securigera varia L. (crown vetch)

See also

Securigera, a segregate genus of Coronilla

18-3-2019 BARX, VALENCIA - BROAD LEAVED SWEET PEA (Lathyrus latifolius)

Lathyrus latifolius, the perennial peavine, perennial pea, broad-leaved everlasting-pea, or just everlasting pea, is a robust, sprawling herbaceous perennial flowering plant in the pea family Fabaceae. It is native to Europe but is present on other continents, such as North America and Australia, where it is most often seen along roadsides.

Lathyrus latifolius has winged hairless stems, and alternating blue green compound leaves consisting of a single pair of leaflets and a winged petiole about 2 inches (51 mm) long. The leaflets are narrowly ovate or oblong-ovate, smooth along the margins, hairless and up to 3 in (76 mm) long and 1 in (25 mm) across. There is a branched tendril between the leaflets.

Short racemes of 4–11 flowers are produced from the axils of the leaves. The flowers, which are unscented, are about 3⁄4–1 in (19–25 mm) across with a typical structure for Faboideae, with an upper standard and lower keel, enclosed by lateral petals. There are 5 petals, which are purplish pink, fading with age. There is a green calyx with 5 teeth, often unequal. The blooming period lasts about 2 months during the summer and early autumn.

The flowers are followed by hairless flattened seedpods, about 2 in (51 mm) long and 1⁄2 in (13 mm) wide, with several seeds inside. The seedpod, which is initially green, gradually turns brown, splitting open into curled segments, flinging out the seeds. The seeds are dark and oblong to reniform in shape.

Lathyrus latifolius can reproduce vegetatively from its taproot and rhizomes, or by reseeding.