27-6-2019 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - PAINTED LADY BUTTERFLY (Vanessa cardui)

Vanessa cardui is the most widespread of all butterfly species. It is commonly called the painted lady, or formerly in North America the cosmopolitan.

V. cardui occurs in any temperate zone, including mountains in the tropics. The species is resident only in warmer areas, but migrates in spring, and sometimes again in autumn. It migrates from North Africa and the Mediterranean to Britain and Europe in May and June, occasionally reaching Iceland, and from the Red Sea basin, via Israel and Cyprus, to Turkey in March and April. The occasional autumn migration made by V. cardui is likely for the inspection of resource changes; it consists of a round trip from Europe to Africa.

For decades, naturalists have debated whether the offspring of these immigrants ever make a southwards return migration. Research suggests that British painted ladies do undertake an autumn migration, making 14,500 km (9,000 mi) round trip from tropical Africa to the Arctic Circle in a series of steps by up to six successive generations. The Radar Entomology Unit at Rothamsted Research provided evidence that autumn migrations take place at high altitude, which explains why these migrations are seldom witnessed.

In recent years, thanks to the activity of The Worldwide Painted Lady Migration citizen science project, led by the Barcelona-based Institute of Evolutionary Biology (Catalan: Institut de Biologia Evolutiva), the huge range of migration has begun to be revealed. For example, some butterflies migrated from Iceland to the Sahara desert, and even further south.

V. cardui is known for its distinct migratory behaviour. In California, they are usually seen flying from north to north-west. These migrations appear to be partially initiated by heavy winter rains in the desert where rainfall controls the growth of larval food plants. In March 2019, after heavy rain produced an abundance of vegetation in the deserts, Southern California saw these butterflies migrating by the millions across the state.

Similarly, heavier than usual rain during the 2018-2019 winter seems to have been the cause of the extraordinarily large migration observed in Israel at the end of March, estimated at a billion individual butterflies. Painted lady migration patterns are highly erratic and they do not migrate every year. Some evidence suggests that global climatic events, such as el Niño, may affect the migratory behaviour of the painted lady butterflies, causing large-scale migrations. The first noticeable wave of migration in eastern Ukraine was noted in the 20s of April 2019. From May 15, numbers began to grow and it was possible to observe hundreds of this species in the Kharkiv region of Ukraine, including in the city streets of Kharkiv.

19-5-2019 BUMI HILLS, ZIMBABWE - BLACK CROWNED TCHAGRA (Tchagra senegalus)

The Black-crowned Tchagra (Tchagra senegalus) is a distinctive African and Arabian bushshrike known for its bold black crown, eye stripes, and white eyebrows, feeding on insects and small creatures in dry woodlands, often calling with rising, musical scales, and building cup nests bound with spiderwebs in thorny bushes. They are solitary or in pairs, run quickly to cover, and their calls can be mimicked to attract them. 

Key Facts:

Appearance: Black crown, black eye stripes, broad white supercilium (eyebrow), pale brown back, grey belly, chestnut wing edges, black tail with white tip.

Habitat: Dry, thorny savannahs, open woodlands, forest edges, semi-desert, and gardens across Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.

Diet: Primarily insects (grasshoppers, beetles, caterpillars), spiders, and termites, but also small frogs, lizards, and snakes.

Foraging: Forages on or near the ground, running and hopping, flicking debris with its bill; also gleans from vegetation.

Vocalization: Famous for its unique, musical call that ascends in pitch and speed, often described as playing a penny whistle.

Nesting: Builds a shallow, cup-shaped nest of twigs, roots, and spiderwebs in low, dense bushes; both parents build and incubate.

Behavior: Solitary or in pairs, runs very fast to cover when threatened, generally discreet but tolerant of humans.

Name: "Tchagra" is an onomatopoeia for its grating call. 

20-5-2019 BUMI HILLS, ZIMBABWE - AFRICAN PIED WAGTAIL (Motacilla aguime)

The African pied wagtail, known scientifically as Motacilla aguimp, presents a striking black and white plumage. The upperparts are a glossy black, creating a stark contrast with the bird's white underparts. A distinctive white supercilium and a white patch on the folded wing add to its bold patterning. Juvenile birds exhibit a greyer hue, and those of the nominate subspecies display grey flanks. This species measures approximately 20 cm in length.

When identifying the African pied wagtail, look for the characteristic black and white coloration. The black upperparts contrast sharply with the white underparts, and the white supercilium is a key feature. In flight, the white wing patch is visible. Juveniles are greyer than adults, and some variation in flank color can be observed in different subspecies.

This bird favors subtropical or tropical environments, particularly seasonally wet or flooded lowland grasslands and riverine areas. It can also be found in freshwater marshes. In urban settings, it often lives in close association with humans.

The African pied wagtail has a wide range across sub-Saharan Africa, from the Eastern Cape northward to the southernmost reaches of Egypt, and from Guinea to western Eritrea and Somalia. It is occasionally seen as a vagrant in Burkina Faso, Gambia, Mauritania, and the Western Cape.

26-6-2019 BONAIRE, VALENCIA - TRUE WEEVIL (Family Curculionidae Genus Coniocleonus)

Coniocleonus are weevils (snout beetles) in the Curculionidae family, known for preferring dry, warm steppe/semi-desert areas in Europe, with species like C. nigrosuturatus being nearly monophagous on Common Stork'sbill (Erodium cicutarium), where larvae tunnel underground while adults feed above ground. They're notable for their specific habitat needs (disturbed ground, sparse vegetation) and specific life cycles, with some adults flying in spring/autumn, feeding, mating, and overwintering, while larvae develop in soil tunnels. 

Key Facts about Coniocleonus

Classification: Genus of beetles (Coleoptera) in the family Curculionidae (weevils).

Habitat: Found in Europe, favoring dry, warm, disturbed steppe or semi-desert environments, often near roads or pastures.

Host Plants: Many species are poorly studied, but C. nigrosuturatus feeds exclusively on Erodium cicutarium (Common Stork'sbill), avoiding thyme (Thymus) as previously thought. Other species use Calluna vulgaris or Erica as refuges, notes Biotaxa.

Life Cycle (e.g., C. nigrosuturatus):

Adults emerge in spring (March), peak activity mid-April to May for feeding/mating.

Larvae live in soil, feeding externally on the stem base of host plants in vertical tunnels.

Pupation occurs in July in earthen cells; adults emerge late July/autumn.

Behavior: Adults fly (good ability, though sometimes phenologically absent) and mate on host plants, with males stimulating females with their legs.

Species: Includes C. nebulosus, C. nigrosuturatus, C. cicatricosus, among others, with about 17 species in Europe, mostly Mediterranean.

Conservation: Some species, like C. turbatus, have specific conservation statuses (e.g., endangered in Germany). 

26-6-2019 CATAROJA, VALENCIA - PURPLE HERON (Ardea purpurea)

The Purple Heron (Ardea purpurea), a statuesque avian, stands with a height ranging from 70 to 94 cm and boasts a wingspan of 120 to 152 cm. Despite its grand stature, it is a slender creature, tipping the scales at a mere 0.5 to 1.35 kg. This bird is slightly smaller and more svelte than its cousin, the Grey Heron, and is adorned with darker, reddish-brown plumage.

Adult Purple Herons are distinguished by their black foreheads and crowns, with a dark stripe cascading down the back of the neck, culminating in a modest, dangling crest. Their heads and necks are a buffish chestnut, streaked with dark lines, while the mantle dons an oily brown hue. The upper parts and tail are a brownish grey, and the underparts are a mix of chestnut and black. During the breeding season, the beak of the adult brightens, and the eyes gleam with a yellow iris.

The Purple Heron is a denizen of marshes, lagoons, and lakes, often shrouded by dense vegetation. It has a penchant for freshwater habitats, particularly those with expansive reed beds of Phragmites. Coastal mangrove swamps are also within its realm, though less frequently visited.

This heron has a broad range that spans Africa, central and southern Europe, and the southern and eastern Palearctic. While the Western Palearctic populations are migratory, their African and tropical-Asian counterparts are mostly sedentary, save for occasional dispersive movements.

The Purple Heron is a creature of stealth and grace, often retreating to the sanctuary of reed beds. It exhibits a slow, deliberate flight, with its neck retracted and legs trailing behind. On land, it moves with long toes that allow it to traverse floating vegetation or even bushwalk without grasping the branches. Dawn and dusk are its preferred times for activity, with the bird often seen stalking or standing in ambush for its prey.

The heron's vocalization is a subdued "frarnk," a quieter and higher-pitched affair compared to the Grey Heron. It is generally less vocal, but similar guttural sounds may emanate from its colonies.

Purple Herons are colonial breeders, constructing bulky nests from dead reeds or sticks in close proximity to water. They lay about five bluish-green eggs, with both parents sharing incubation duties. The young emerge after approximately four weeks and take their first flight six weeks later.

A versatile predator, the Purple Heron's diet includes fish, rodents, frogs, insects, and more. It employs both stalking and ambush tactics to capture its prey, often waiting motionlessly or slowly stalking its victim.

26-6-2019 CATAROJA, 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.

Little Egrets are social yet territorial when feeding. They exhibit a range of foraging behaviors, from active chasing to patient ambush. Their movements are often in response to the presence of other animals, which may stir up prey.

The Little Egret's vocalizations include croaking and bubbling sounds at breeding colonies and a harsh alarm call when disturbed. These calls are similar to those of the Black-crowned Night Heron and the Cattle Egret.

Breeding colonies are often mixed with other water birds. Nests are platforms of sticks located in trees, shrubs, or reed beds. Clutches typically consist of three to five bluish-green eggs, incubated by both parents for about three weeks. The young fledge at approximately six weeks old.

The diet is diverse, including fish, amphibians, small reptiles, mammals, birds, crustaceans, molluscs, insects, spiders, and worms. The Little Egret employs various hunting techniques, both in water and on land, to capture its prey.

26-6-2019 CATAROJA, VALENCIA - ZITTING CISTICOLA (Cisticola juncidis)

The Zitting Cisticola, or Streaked Fantail Warbler, is a diminutive bird, measuring a mere 10 to 12 centimeters in length. Its upper parts are adorned with a brown plumage, intricately streaked with black, while its underparts remain a modest whitish hue. The tail is a noteworthy feature, broad and tipped with white, and is frequently flicked—a behavior that has inspired one of the bird's colloquial names.

To identify the Zitting Cisticola, look for its rufous rump and the absence of gold on the collar. The tail, brownish with white tips, is another distinguishing characteristic. Males, during the breeding season, exhibit less crown streaking and more pronounced back markings than females, though differences between sexes are generally subtle.

The Zitting Cisticola favors grasslands as its primary habitat, often found in proximity to bodies of water.

This species boasts a broad range, encompassing southern Europe, Africa (excluding deserts and rainforests), and southern Asia, extending to northern Australia. It is largely sedentary, though certain East Asian populations undertake migrations to warmer climes in winter.

These birds are predominantly insectivorous and may be observed in small flocks. The breeding season is timed with the rains, and in many regions, the Zitting Cisticola is known to produce two broods annually. Males display polygynous tendencies, though monogamous pairings are not uncommon. The male initiates nest construction within the grasses and performs a specialized display to attract females, who then complete the nest.

The male's breeding season is marked by a distinctive flight display, punctuated by a series of "zitting" calls reminiscent of the sound of scissors snipping.

Nests are artfully constructed with living leaves woven into a soft matrix of plant down, cobwebs, and grass. The structure is cup-shaped with an overhead canopy for camouflage. Females lay 3 to 6 eggs and are solely responsible for incubation, which lasts approximately 10 days. Multiple broods may be raised in a single season.

Their diet consists primarily of insects, which they forage for within their grassland habitats.

26-6-2019 CATARROJA, 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.

The IUCN Red List currently classifies the Squacco Heron as Least Concern, indicating a stable population without immediate threats to its survival.

Non-breeding Squacco Herons share certain physical characteristics with other heron species such as the Indian Pond Heron and the Malagasy Pond Heron, including tawny plumage, lighter streaking, a smaller bill, and narrower wing tips.

26-9-2019 CATARROJA, 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.

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.

26-6-2019 BONAIRE, VALENCIA - EUROPEAN BEE-EATER (Merops apiaster)

The European bee-eater, Merops apiaster, is a bird of arresting beauty and grace. Its plumage is a kaleidoscope of warm hues, with brown and yellow adorning its upper parts, while the wings boast a vibrant green. The beak, a stark black, contrasts sharply with the bird's colorful attire. This slender avian can reach a length of 27–29 cm, including the elongated central tail feathers that add to its elegance. Both sexes are similar in appearance, though the female may sport greener shoulder feathers compared to the male's gold.

When identifying the European bee-eater, look for its distinctive coloration and sleek profile. The non-breeding plumage is more subdued, with a blue-green back and the absence of elongated central tail feathers. Juveniles resemble non-breeding adults but exhibit less variation in feather colors. During the moulting period, adults transition to breeding plumage, which is completed before their winter migration to Africa.

These birds favor open country in warmer climates, often found in proximity to sandy banks and river shores where they can nest and forage with ease.

The European bee-eater breeds across southern and central Europe, parts of northern and southern Africa, and western Asia. While the southern African population remains resident year-round, others migrate to tropical Africa for the winter. Occasionally, they are seen north of their typical range, with sporadic breeding in northern Europe.

Gregarious by nature, European bee-eaters nest colonially in sandy banks, with communal tendencies extending to feeding and roosting. Courtship involves the male presenting the female with large prey items, a gesture of both affection and sustenance.

The call of the European bee-eater is a melodious and liquid "prreee" or "prruup," a sound as mellow as the bird's demeanor.

Breeding season sees these birds tunneling into sandy banks to lay their spherical white eggs, with both parents sharing the duties of incubation and care. The eggs hatch after about three weeks, and the young are raised with communal diligence.

While the European bee-eater is distinctive, it may be confused with other bee-eater species. However, its unique coloration and tail feathers generally set it apart.

True to their name, European bee-eaters feast primarily on bees, wasps, and hornets. They exhibit remarkable skill in catching these insects mid-flight and have a unique method of removing the sting before consumption. Their diet is predominantly composed of Hymenoptera, particularly the European honey bee.

The IUCN lists the European bee-eater as Least Concern, indicating a stable population without immediate threats to its survival. However, their interactions with bee populations and apiaries are of interest to conservationists and apiculturists alike.

20-5-2019 BUMI HILLS, ZIMBABWE - 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.

20-5-2019 BUMI HILLS, ZIMBABWE - AFRICAN DARTER (Anhinga rufa)

The African darter, Anhinga rufa, is a striking waterbird known for its sinuous neck, which has earned it the nickname "snakebird." This species measures approximately 80 cm in length, with males displaying a glossy black plumage adorned with white streaking. Females and immature birds present a more subdued brown coloration.

Distinguishable from its relatives by a slender white stripe running down its neck set against a rufous backdrop, the African darter's pointed bill sets it apart from cormorants. Males are predominantly black with white streaks, while females and juveniles are browner.

The African darter frequents large bodies of water across sub-Saharan Africa, favoring environments where it can perch and dive with ease.

This bird is widespread and common throughout sub-Saharan Africa. A non-African subspecies, the Levant darter, was historically found in Turkey, Israel, and southern Iraq, but populations have faced significant declines due to habitat destruction and other environmental pressures.

The African darter is often seen swimming with just its neck above water, resembling a snake, a behavior it shares with other anhingas. It is an adept diver, hunting for fish, which it spears with its sharp bill. Due to its non-waterproof feathers, after diving, it must dry its wings by spreading them out in the sun and wind, a sight often observed alongside cormorants.

This species constructs stick nests in trees, where it lays a clutch of 3 to 6 eggs. It is known to nest communally with herons, egrets, and cormorants.

The African darter is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating that it is not at immediate risk of widespread decline.

19-5-2019 BUMI HILLS, ZIMBABWE - SCARLET CHESTED SUNBIRD (MALE) (Chalcomitra senegalensis)

The Scarlet-chested Sunbird is a medium-sized bird found in sub-Saharan Africa, easily identified by the male's striking scarlet chest and iridescent green crown and throat. It feeds on nectar and insects, using its long, curved bill to extract food from flowers, and can often be seen hovering while it forages. Females are duller, dark gray-brown with streaked underparts. Both sexes are known for the male's loud "tjip" and "teeeuw" calls. 

Appearance and size

Male: Glossy velvet-black with a bright scarlet chest, iridescent green crown, throat, and sometimes a green "moustache" stripe below the eyes.

Female: Dark gray-brown with a heavily streaked or mottled underparts; lacks the bright chest and iridescent green head of the male.

Size: About 13–15 cm (5.1–5.9 in) long. Males weigh between 7.5 and 17.2 grams, while females weigh slightly less. 

Diet and foraging

Primary diet: Nectar from flowering plants, such as aloes.

Supplemental diet: Insects and spiders.

Foraging behavior: Often hovers or perches to feed, using its long, decurved bill to reach into flowers. 

Habitat and range

Habitat: A variety of dry and moist savanna, parkland, and gardens.

Range: Sub-Saharan Africa.

Elevation: Can be found at elevations of up to 2,400 meters (7,900 ft). 

Nesting and reproduction

Nest builder: The female builds the nest, a bulky dome-shaped structure made from materials like grass, spider web, and leaves.

Nest placement: Nests are suspended from branches, sometimes near wasp nests for added protection.

Eggs: Lays 1-3 eggs, which are incubated by the female for about 13-15 days.

Chicks: Both parents feed the chicks. Young birds will leave the nest after about 15-20 days. 

Calls

Male calls: A loud series of "tjip" and "teeeuw" notes. 

18-5-2019 BUMI HILLS, ZIMBABWE - SOUTHERN SCARLET CHESTED SUNBIRD (FEMALE) (Chalcomitra senegalensis)

The scarlet-chested sunbird (Chalcomitra senegalensis) is a species of bird in the family Nectariniidae. It is found in many areas of Sub-Saharan Africa, and from South Sudan to South Africa.

It is found in Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Eswatini, Ivory Coast, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mozambique, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Sudan, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

The scarlet-chested sunbird is similar to Hunter's sunbird in appearance, with adult males having a characteristic red–scarlet coloured breast and an iridescent green patch on top of its head. The female is dark brown with no supercilium. It inhabits woodland and gardens, at elevations of up to 2,400 metres (7,900 ft). The bird is around 13–15 centimetres (5.1–5.9 in) in length, with males having a weight of 7.5–17.2 grams (0.26–0.61 oz) and females weighing 6.8–15.3 grams (0.24–0.54 oz).

In 1760, the French zoologist Mathurin Jacques Brisson included a description of the scarlet-chested sunbird in his Ornithologie based on a specimen collected in Senegal. He used the French name Le grimpereau violet du Sénégal and the Latin Certhia Senegalensis Violacea. Although Brisson coined Latin names, these do not conform to the binomial system and are not recognised by the International Commission on Zoological Nomenclature. When the Swedish naturalist Carl Linnaeus updated his Systema Naturae for the twelfth edition in 1766, he added 240 species that had been previously described by Brisson. One of these was the scarlet-chested sunbird. Linnaeus included a brief description, coined the binomial name Certhia senegalensis and cited Brisson's work.[6] This species is now placed in the genus Chalcomitra that was introduced by the German naturalist Ludwig Reichenbach in 1853. Six subspecies are recognised. 

The Southern Scarlet-chested Sunbird (Chalcomitra senegalensis) is a species found across sub-Saharan Africa that is known for its vibrant scarlet chest and iridescent green head in males. It has a diet of nectar and insects, which it forages for in open savanna, parkland, and gardens. Its habitat preference for areas with both open woodlands and well-wooded gardens makes it a common sight in many human-modified landscapes, such as parks and gardens.  

19-5-2019 BUMI HILLS, ZIMBABWE - RAINBOW SKINK (Trachylepis margaritifera)

The rainbow skink (Trachylepis margaritifera) is a species of Afro-Malagasy mabuya or skink in the subfamily Lygosominae.

Mabuya quinquetaeniata margaritifera, formerly a subspecies of Trachylepis quinquetaeniata (the five-lined mabuya, also known as the rainbow skink), was elevated to full species in 1998 (as Trachylepis margaritifera).

T. margaritifera is a medium-sized lizard reaching a length of about 20 centimetres (7.9 in). The coloration of this species is quite variable, depending on the gender and the age. The scales are glossy, with metallic reflections. The basic colour is usually olive-brown or dark brown, sometimes with pearly whitish spots and with three light yellow-orange longitudinal stripes running from the head to the electric blue tail. These stripes may fade and become indistinct in the adults.

The head shows a pointed snout and clearly visible ears holes. Just behind the ear opening, there are some black spots. Legs are dark brown, short and strong, with relatively long toes. The flanks are mainly yellowish and the underside of the body is whitish.

It is found in southern Africa, from KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa to southern Malawi; isolated populations occur in central to southeastern Tanzania and southern Kenya. It is found in rocky and mountainous regions of these countries.

19-5-2019 BUMI HILLS, ZIMBABWE - GOLIATH HERON (JUVENILE) (Ardea goliath)

The Goliath heron, known also as the giant heron, stands as the largest extant heron on Earth. With a statuesque height ranging from 120 to 152 cm and a wingspan stretching between 185 to 230 cm, this bird is a formidable presence in its aquatic realm. Weighing in at 4 to 5 kg, it is a sight to behold, with a slate gray and chestnut plumage that is both striking and elegant.

The adult Goliath heron is adorned with a chestnut head and crest, a white chin, throat, and upper breast marked with black streaks, and a buff lower breast and belly also with black streaks. Its back and upper wings are slate-grey, accented by a chestnut shoulder patch visible when the wings are folded. The under-wing presents a paler chestnut hue. Its bill is a formidable weapon, the upper mandible jet black, while the lores and orbital areas are a yellow tinged with green. The eyes are a piercing yellow, and the legs and feet are a stark black. In flight, the Goliath heron carries its legs trailing behind, a characteristic that distinguishes it from its heron kin.

The Goliath heron is a creature of the water, favoring lakes, swamps, mangrove wetlands, and sometimes river deltas. It is most at home in shallow waters, though it can be observed near deeper waters with dense vegetation. Its preference for pristine wetlands means it is often found far from human disturbance, from sea level up to elevations of 2,100 meters.

This majestic bird graces the landscapes of sub-Saharan Africa, with smaller, declining populations in Southwest and South Asia.

A solitary and territorial bird, the Goliath heron is a diurnal feeder, often seen standing motionless in the shallows, waiting to spear fish with its powerful bill. It may also use its bill as a lure to attract fish. Despite its size, it is vulnerable to kleptoparasitism, with other birds such as African fish eagles known to steal its catch.

The Goliath heron's call is a deep and resonant "kowoork," which can be heard up to 2 km away. It also emits a sharper "arrk" when disturbed, and a "huh-huh" during a crouched posture. With its neck extended, a "krooo" may be heard, and duetting at nest sites has been reported but not confirmed.

Breeding season aligns with the onset of the rainy season, with nests built on islands or vegetation islands. The nests are large but flimsy, and the pale blue eggs are incubated for 24 to 30 days. Fledglings leave the nest at around five weeks and are tended to by parents for up to 80 days.

The Goliath heron may be confused with the purple heron due to some plumage similarities, but the latter is significantly smaller.

The Goliath heron's diet consists almost entirely of fish, specializing in large specimens averaging 500 to 600 grams. It may also consume other small animals such as frogs, prawns, and occasionally carrion.

The Goliath heron is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating that, for now, this species is not at immediate risk of decline.

19-5-2019 BUMI HILLS, ZIMBABWE - 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.

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.

19-5-2019 BUMI HILLS, ZIMBABWE - SMITH'S BUSH SQUIRREL (Paraderus Cepapi)

Smith's bush squirrel (Paraxerus cepapi), also known as the yellow-footed squirrel or tree squirrel, is an African bush squirrel which is native to woodlands of the southern Afrotropics.

It is found in Angola, Botswana, the DRCongo, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. It is a common rodent which is diurnal by nature.

Its total length is 350 mm (14 in), half of which is tail; weight 200 g (7.1 oz). The coat colour varies throughout the region. In the western and arid parts of its range, it is pale grey, and in the eastern localities, more brown. Its head and legs are a rusty colour. Colouration on the chest varies from yellowish to buff in the east, to white in the west. This squirrel's belly is white. These alert and ever busy creatures carry their long tails extended backwards.

Smith's bush squirrels are primarily vegetarian, but like most rodents, they take insect prey and use their front feet to manipulate food items when feeding. They scatter-hoard seeds next to tree trunks or grass tufts, thereby facilitating tree regeneration.

Essentially arboreal animals, they also spend a great deal of time on the ground, foraging for food. When disturbed, Smith's bush squirrels always seek the refuge of trees. At night, territorial family groups nest together in holes in trees. Offspring become sexually mature between six and nine months old, when they are forcibly evicted by the breeding pair. The males are mainly responsible for territorial defense, although females also chase intruders when they care for dependent pups. To promote group cohesion, a common scent is shared by mutual grooming, which is an important facet of the social fibre of this species. 

Smith's bush squirrels are diligent in their grooming and a mother tree squirrel holds her offspring down with her fore legs while grooming it with licks, nibbles, and scratches with her claws.

A conspicuous feature of their behaviour when under threat is 'mobbing': all the members of the colony make harsh clicking sounds while they flick their tails, building up momentum and gradually getting louder. In some areas, they are solitary, or are found in small family groups; a lone tree squirrel relies on its wits when in danger and always keeps a branch or the trunk of a tree between it and the enemy. Smith's bush squirrels are always alert, and when alarmed, run away with great speed, making for the nearest tree where they lie motionless, flattened against a branch.

19-5-2019 BUMI HILLS, ZIMBABWE - SCRUB HARE (Lepus saxatilis)

The Cape scrub hare (Lepus saxatilis) (Afrikaans: ribbokhaas) is a species of hare found in South Africa and Namibia. Although it is listed as a least concern species, the population has been declining and is expected to decline by 20% over the next 100 years, according to a 2004 report.

Similar to the African savanna hare, the Cape scrub hare is a grizzled gray coarse-furred hare. Its undersides are gray, and the inside of the limbs, the chin, and chest are white. Fur becomes sparse along the ears, which are black at the tips. Its tail is black on top and white below, and measures 13 to 15 centimetres (5.1 to 5.9 in) in length. An off-white ring encircles the Cape scrub hare's eyes. Cape scrub hares are typically larger than African savanna hares, and adults weigh from 3.2 to 4 kilograms (7.1 to 8.8 lb), with females being generally heavier than males.

The Cape scrub hare is endemic to southern Africa, and lives in southwestern Namibia and the Western Cape and Northern Cape provinces of South Africa. Its presence in Namibia and absence in southeastern parts of Africa is based on taxonomic restrictions imposed on the species in 2018.

Cape scrub hares are solitary and herbivorous. They are sometimes found in pairs'

The Cape scrub hare is a herbivore and eats mostly green grasses, consuming their leaves, stems, and rhizomes. Green grass is preferred over dry grass.

Some ixodid ticks are known to affect Cape scrub hares.

As of 2019, the scrub hare is listed as a least-concern species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. It has a fairly restricted distribution. A 2004 study estimated that within the next 100 years, their population is estimated to decrease by 20%, but this rate of decline is not enough to consider the species as threatened.