17-7-2019 ALBUFERA, VALENCIA - STRETCH SPIDER (Genus Tetragnatha)

Tetragnatha is a genus of long-jawed orb-weavers found all over the world. It was first described by Pierre André Latreille in 1804, and contains hundreds of species. Most occur in the tropics and subtropics, and many can run over water. They are commonly called stretch spiders in reference to their elongated body form and their ability to hide on blades of grass or similar elongated substrates by stretching their front legs forward and the others behind them.

Species in this genus are found worldwide, including Greenland.

Tetragnatha species occupy the tall herb and tree layer. They construct orb webs, usually in vegetation near or above streams and ponds. Several studies have reported that they build their webs near slow-flowing streams in sunlit areas. Without access to a humid habitat, these spiders suffer from dehydration. The webs are short-lived, being taken down and digested daily or even more frequently. Webs are usually horizontally inclined and consist of an open hub with 30 to 40 viscid spirals. The spider hangs underneath the central hub of the web with its long front legs directed forward.

These spiders are capable of walking over water surfaces at a very fast pace, with legs I and II moving alternately in a diagonal rhythm while legs III and IV are dragged behind. When at rest on vegetation, the body is pressed against the substrate with the long front legs stretched forward.

One of the biggest and most common species is T. extensa, which has a holarctic distribution. It can be found near lakes, river banks or swamps. Large numbers of individuals can often be found in reeds, tall grass, and around minor trees and shrubs.

23-5-2019 MANA POOLS, ZIMBABWE - CAPE WILD DOG (Lycaon pictus ssp. pictus)

The African wild dog (Lycaon pictus), also called painted dog and Cape hunting dog, is a wild canine native to sub-Saharan Africa. It is the largest wild canine in Africa, and the only extant member of the genus Lycaon, which is distinguished from Canis by dentition highly specialised for a hypercarnivorous diet and by a lack of dewclaws.

It is estimated that there are around 6,600 adults (including 1,400 mature individuals) living in 39 subpopulations, all threatened by habitat fragmentation, human persecution and outbreaks of disease. As the largest subpopulation probably consists of fewer than 250 individuals, the African wild dog has been listed as endangered on the IUCN Red List since 1990.

The African wild dog is a specialized hunter of terrestrial ungulates, mostly hunting at dawn and dusk, but also displays diurnal activity. It captures its prey by using stamina and cooperative hunting to exhaust them. Its natural competitors are lions and spotted hyenas: the former will kill the dogs where possible whilst the latter are frequent kleptoparasites. Like other canids, the African wild dog regurgitates food for its young but also extends this action to adults as a central part of the pack's social unit. The young have the privilege of feeding first on carcasses.

The African wild dog has been revered in several hunter-gatherer societies, particularly those of the San people and Prehistoric Egypt.

The African wild dog occurs foremost in Southern and East Africa. It is rare in North Africa and mostly absent in West Africa, with the only potentially viable population occurring in Senegal's Niokolo-Koba National Park. It is occasionally sighted in other parts of Senegal, Guinea and Mali. Its distribution is patchy in East Africa. It inhabits mostly savannas and arid zones, generally avoiding forested areas. This preference is likely linked to its hunting habits, which require open areas that do not obstruct vision or impede pursuit. It travels through scrubland, woodland and montane areas in pursuit of prey. A forest-dwelling population has been identified in the Harenna Forest, a wet montane forest up to an elevation of 2,400 m (7,900 ft) in the Bale Mountains of Ethiopia. At least one record exists of a pack being sighted on the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.[26] In Zimbabwe, it has been recorded at the elevation of 1,800 m (5,900 ft).[9] In Ethiopia, several packs were sighted at elevations of 1,900 to 2,800 m (6,200 to 9,200 ft), and a dead individual was found in June 1995 at 4,050 m (13,290 ft) on the Sanetti Plateau. A stable population comprising more than 370 individuals is present in Kruger National Park.

The African wild dog have strong social bonds, stronger than those of sympatric lions and spotted hyenas; thus, solitary living and hunting are extremely rare in the species. It lives in permanent packs consisting of two to 27 adults and yearling pups. The typical pack size in the Kruger National Park and the Maasai Mara is four or five adults, while packs in Moremi and Selous Game Reserves contain eight or nine. However, larger packs have been observed and temporary aggregations of hundreds of individuals may have gathered in response to the seasonal migration of vast springbok herds in Southern Africa. Males and females have separate dominance hierarchies, with the latter usually being led by the oldest female. Males may be led by the oldest male, but these can be supplanted by younger specimens; thus, some packs may contain elderly male former pack leaders. The dominant pair typically monopolises breeding. The species differs from most other social carnivorans in that males remain in the natal pack, while females disperse (a pattern also found in primates such as gorillas, chimpanzees, and red colobuses). 

Furthermore, males in any given pack tend to outnumber females 3:1. Dispersing females join other packs and evict some of the resident females related to the other pack members, thus preventing inbreeding and allowing the evicted individuals to find new packs of their own and breed. Males rarely disperse, and when they do, they are invariably rejected by other packs already containing males. Although arguably the most social canid, the species lacks the elaborate facial expressions and body language found in the wolf, likely because of the African wild dog's less hierarchical social structure. Furthermore, while elaborate facial expressions are important for wolves in re-establishing bonds after long periods of separation from their family groups, they are not as necessary to African wild dogs, which remain together for much longer periods. The species does have an extensive vocal repertoire consisting of twittering, whining, yelping, squealing, whispering, barking, growling, gurling, rumbling, moaning and hooing.

African wild dog populations in East Africa appear to have no fixed breeding season, whereas those in Southern Africa usually breed during the April–July period. During estrus, the female is closely accompanied by a single male, which keeps other members of the same sex at bay.[26] The estrus period can last as long as 20 days. The copulatory tie characteristic of mating in most canids has been reported to be absent or very brief (less than one minute) in African wild dog, possibly an adaptation to the prevalence of larger predators in its environment. The gestation period lasts 69–73 days, with the interval between each pregnancy being 12–14 months typically. The African wild dog produces more pups than any other canid, with litters containing around six to 16 pups, with an average of 10, thus indicating that a single female can produce enough young to form a new pack every year. Because the amount of food necessary to feed more than two litters would be impossible to acquire by the average pack, breeding is strictly limited to the dominant female, which may kill the pups of subordinates. After giving birth, the mother stays close to the pups in the den, while the rest of the pack hunts. She typically drives away pack members approaching the pups until the latter are old enough to eat solid food at three to four weeks of age. The pups leave the den around the age of three weeks and are suckled outside. The pups are weaned at the age of five weeks, when they are fed regurgitated meat by the other pack members. By seven weeks, the pups begin to take on an adult appearance, with noticeable lengthening in the legs, muzzle, and ears. Once the pups reach the age of eight to 10 weeks, the pack abandons the den and the young follow the adults during hunts. The youngest pack members are permitted to eat first on kills, a privilege which ends once they become yearlings. African wild dogs have an average lifespan of about 10 to 11 years in the wild.

When separated from the pack, an African wild dog becomes depressed and can die as a result of broken heart syndrome.

23-5-2019 MANA POOLS, ZIMBABWE - BUSHVELD HELMETED GUINEA FOWL (Numida meleagris ssp. mitratus)

The helmeted guineafowl (Numida meleagris) is the best known of the guineafowl bird family, Numididae, and the only member of the genus Numida. It is native to Africa, mainly south of the Sahara, and has been widely introduced, as a domesticated species, into the West Indies, North America, Colombia, Brazil, Australia and Europe.

The helmeted guineafowl is a large, 53 to 58 cm (21 to 23 in) bird with a round body and small head. They weigh about 1.3 kg (2.9 lb). The body plumage is gray-black speckled with white. Like other guineafowl, this species has an unfeathered head, which in this species is decorated with a dull yellow or reddish bony knob, and bare skin with red, blue, or black hues. The wings are short and rounded, and the tail is likewise short. Various subspecies are proposed, differences in appearance being mostly a large variation in shape, size, and colour of the casque and facial wattles.

This is a gregarious species, forming flocks outside the breeding season typically of about 25 birds that also roost communally. Guineafowl are particularly well-suited to consuming massive quantities of ticks, which might otherwise spread Lyme disease. These birds are terrestrial, and prone to run rather than fly when alarmed. Like most gallinaceous birds, they have a short-lived, explosive flight and rely on gliding to cover extended distances. Helmeted guineafowl can walk 10 km and more in a day. Their bodies are well-suited for running and they are remarkably successful in maintaining dynamic stability over rough terrain at speed. They make loud harsh calls when disturbed.

23-5-2019 MANA POOLS, ZIMBABWE - EMERALD SPOTTED WOOD DOVE (Turtur chalcospilos)

The emerald-spotted wood dove or emerald-spotted dove (Turtur chalcospilos) is a bird of the family Columbidae, resident across eastern and southern Africa. It is a species of open drier deciduous woodland and second growth. It is absent from evergreen rainforests and semidesert areas.

At Hluhluwe-Umfolozi, South Africa, showing the bluish-emerald wing spots

Calling in woodland during autumn

The emerald-spotted wood dove is a small plump pigeon, typically 20 cm in length. Its back, hindneck, wings, and tail are pale grey-brown, and the folded wings have green metallic patches. There are blackish bands on the lower back and tail. The forehead, crown, and nape are bluish-grey, fading to pinkish-grey on the throat. The underparts are mauve-pink, becoming whiter on the belly.

The bill of this dove is blackish with a red base. The sexes are similar, but the female may be slightly duller than the male. The immature has duller green spots and buff fringes to the feathers. When flying, the black-billed wood dove is told from this species by its bright chestnut underwings.

22-5-2019 MANA POOLS, ZIMBABWE - WIRE TAILED SWALLOW (Hirundo smithii)

The wire-tailed swallow is a small bird with a glossy blue back, white underparts, and a chestnut-colored cap, named for its two long, thin tail feathers. It is a fast, aerial insectivore, often seen flying low over water and building its mud nest on vertical surfaces, including human-made structures like bridges and buildings. This species is widespread across sub-Saharan Africa and southern Asia and has a "least concern" conservation status globally. 

Physical characteristics

Size: Measures approximately 18 cm (7.1 in) long.

Plumage: Features glossy blue upperparts, a chestnut forehead and crown, and clean white underparts.

Tail: Distinguished by two very long, thin, wire-like filaments on its outer tail feathers. Females and juveniles have shorter or no "wires" and a duller cap.

Habitat and behavior

Habitat: Prefers open country, such as grasslands, wetlands, and cultivated areas, particularly near water.

Diet: An aerial insectivore that feeds on flying insects like flies, wasps, and termites.

Flight: A very fast flyer that often swoops low over water. 

Nesting and reproduction

Nest: Builds a neat, half-bowl-shaped nest from mud, which is placed on vertical surfaces. Nests are often found under cliff ledges or on man-made structures like bridges, buildings, and culverts.

Territorial: Nests are typically solitary and territorial, unlike some colonial swallow species.

Eggs and incubation: Lays a clutch of 2-4 eggs in Africa and up to 5 in Asia. The female primarily incubates the eggs.

Parental care: Both parents feed the chicks, with the female providing more food. 

Distribution and conservation

Distribution: Found in sub-Saharan Africa and southern Asia. Some populations are resident, while others migrate seasonally.

Conservation status: Globally listed as "least concern" by the IUCN, although some regional statuses may vary.

Threats: The introduction of man-made nest sites has, in fact, benefited this species. 

23-5-2019 MANA POOLS, ZIMBABWE - COMMON DWARF MONGOOSE (Helogale parvula)

The common dwarf mongoose (Helogale parvula) is a mongoose species native to Angola, northern Botswana, northern Namibia, KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa, Zambia and East Africa. It is part of the genus Helogale, along with the Ethiopian dwarf mongoose.

The common dwarf mongoose has soft fur ranging from yellowish red to very dark brown. It has a large pointed head, small ears, a long tail, short limbs and long claws. With a body length of 16–23 cm (6.3–9.1 in) and a weight of 213–341 g (7.5–12.0 oz), it is Africa's smallest member of the order Carnivora.

Common dwarf mongoose in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, South Africa

The common dwarf mongoose ranges from East to southern Central Africa, from Eritrea and Ethiopia to the provinces of Limpopo and Mpumalanga in the Republic of South Africa. It inhabits primarily dry grassland, open forests and bushland up to an elevation of 2,000 m (6,600 ft). It is especially common in areas with many termite mounds, its favorite sleeping place. It avoids dense forests and deserts.

The main predators of dwarf mongoose are predatory birds such as raptors and marabou storks, reptiles such as snakes and monitor lizards, and other carnivorous mammals such as jackals and larger mongooses.

A mutualistic relationship has evolved between the dwarf mongoose and hornbills, in which hornbills seek out the mongooses in order for the two species to forage together, and to warn each other of nearby birds of prey and other predators.

It is a social animal, with an average group size of twelve individuals,but larger packs can exceed thirty members. Packs are organized around a strict hierarchy, with females holding higher positions than males within each age class. Each pack is structured around a single breeding pair, the breeding female of which holds the highest social position while her mate holds the second highest. Younger members and immigrant individuals do not typically reproduce, but instead care for and feed juveniles. Other females may reproduce during good conditions, but their litters rarely survive to adulthood. The breeding pair of a dwarf mongoose colony is given priority access to food and protection from subordinate members, and rarely has to defend against predators. The breeding male is most often responsible for suppressing reproduction among other colony members by confronting them directly when this is attempted, typically with a low-intensity threat posture, which causes the pair to cease their attempted reproduction and retreat. The female of the pair often grooms the alpha male afterwards as an appeasement behavior.

Dispersal and the funding of new packs are relatively rare, and group splits occur most often when the dominant female dies. Non-breeders occasionally transfer between different packs, typically at their second or third year of age and during the rain season, which can result in their obtaining a shorter "queue" for becoming part of the breeding pair of the new pack.

Dwarf mongooses tend to breed during the wet season, between November and May, where the breeding female may produce up to three litters, containing an average of four pups each after a gestation period of 49 to 53 days. The pups nurse for a period of 45 days, during which they may be nursed by subordinate females. Juveniles begin foraging alongside adults at around six weeks of age, and reach sexual maturity at three years of life. Their maximum lifespan is around 18 years.

The primary diet of the common dwarf mongoose consists of invertebrates, chiefly insects such as beetle larvae, termites, grasshoppers and crickets, alongside spiders and scorpions. Secondary food sources include small vertebrates, eggs, and fruit.

23-5-2019 MANA POOLS, ZIMBABWE - BROWN SNAKE EAGLE (Circaetus cinereus)

The brown snake-eagle is a large African bird of prey that specializes in hunting snakes, including venomous species like cobras and puff adders, which it kills by crushing their spine with its powerful feet. This solitary bird is found in sub-Saharan Africa in open woodlands and savannas. It has thick-scaled legs for protection against bites, hunts from an exposed perch, and typically lays only one egg per breeding season. 

Diet and hunting

Primary prey: The brown snake-eagle's diet consists mainly of snakes, both venomous and non-venomous, such as cobras, puff adders, and mambas. It will also eat other prey like lizards, monitor lizards, and small mammals.

Hunting technique: It hunts by perching on a high, exposed spot and scanning the ground below for prey. When it spots prey, it will swoop down to strike, using its powerful feet and talons to crush the snake's spine before it can bite.

Venom defense: It has heavily scaled legs that provide some protection against snake bites, but it is not immune and can sometimes be killed by its prey. 

Physical characteristics

Appearance: It is a large bird with a uniform brown head and body, yellow eyes, and a black beak. Its tail has narrow white barring.

Size:

Length: 68-75 cm

Wingspan: 1.6-1.75 m

Weight: Around 2 kg 

Habitat and distribution

Range: Found throughout sub-Saharan Africa.

Habitat: Prefers open, dense woodlands, savannas, and areas with low hills or gulleys. It avoids lowland forests and deserts.

Status: Listed as "least concern" by the IUCN due to its large range, even though it is not very common in most areas. 

Breeding and life cycle

Solitary nature: The brown snake-eagle is a solitary bird, though they may perch in pairs.

Nesting: It builds a small platform nest of sticks, sometimes reusing old nests from other birds.

Reproduction: Lays a single egg and incubates it for about 50 days. Both parents feed the chick, and the young bird fledges around 95-113 days old. 

23-5-2019 MANA POOLS, ZIMBABWE - AFRICAN MONARCH BUTTERFLY (Danaus chrysippus ssp orientis)

Danaus chrysippus, known as the African Monarch, is a common butterfly which is widespread in Asia and Africa. The African Monarch is believed to be one of the first butterflies to be used in art. A 3500 year old Egyptian fresco in Luxor features the oldest illustration of this species.

22-5-2019 MANA POOLS, ZIMBABWE - SOUTHERN GROUND HORNBILL (Bucorvus leadbeateri)

The southern ground hornbill (Bucorvus leadbeateri) is one of two species of ground hornbill, both of which are found solely within Africa, and is the largest species in the hornbill order worldwide. It can be found in the southern regions of Africa, ranging from Kenya to South Africa. Within these regions, they inhabit both woodlands and savannas. The other species of the genus Bucorvus is the Abyssinian ground hornbill, B. abyssinicus.

Southern ground hornbills are carnivorous and hunt mostly on the ground. Their food ranges from insects to small vertebrates. Their nests are often found in high tree cavities or other shallow cavities, such as rock holes in cliff faces. These birds are a long-lived species, having lifespans in the range of 50–60 years, and up to 70 in captivity. In relation to their long lives, they do not reach sexual maturity until 4–6 years old, and begin breeding around 10 years old. Their sex can be identified by the colour of their throats: the male's is pure red and the female's is a deep violet-blue.

Southern ground hornbills are a culturally pervasive and important species in southern Africa. Kruger National Park, located within South Africa, lists southern ground hornbills as one of their 'Big Six' bird species. However, their numbers have been declining, due in part to persecution, habitat destruction, cultural beliefs, and other factors. They are listed globally as 'Vulnerable' by the IUCN as of 2018, and as 'Endangered' in South Africa, Lesotho, Namibia and Eswatini. This enormous, sociable, ground-loving hornbill is easily recognized. 

The adult male has an extensive brilliant red face and throat wattles, while the adult female has purple-blue skin in the center of the red throat patch. The immature is scruffy with yellowish facial skin. In flight, this huge bird is black with extensive white wingtips. Family groups walk slowly through bushy savanna and grassland, foraging for large invertebrates and small vertebrates. In the early morning, dominant pairs duet with a deep-bass booming, “oooh..oooh..ooh-oh”, which can be heard several kilometers away.

22-5-2019 MANA POOLS, ZIMBABWE - AFRICAN SAVANNA 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.

22-5-2019 MANA POOLS, ZIMBABWE - CRAWSHAY'S ZEBRA (Equus quagga ssp. crawshayi)

Crawshay's zebra (Equus quagga crawshayi) is a subspecies of the plains zebra native to eastern Zambia, east of the Luangwa River, Malawi, southeastern Tanzania, and northern Mozambique south to the Gorongoza District. Crawshay's zebras can be distinguished from other subspecies of plains zebras in that its lower incisors lack an infundibulum. Crawshay's zebra has very narrow stripes compared to other forms of the plains zebra.

Crawshay's zebra (Equus quagga crawshayi) is a distinctive plains zebra subspecies from East Africa (Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania, Mozambique), known for its narrow, dense black stripes that cover the entire body down to the hooves, with no shadow stripes. Named after Captain Richard Crawshay, they are found in grasslands and savannas, are vital to ecosystems as grazers, and have seen conservation success in places like Gorongosa National Park, demonstrating strong population recovery. 

Key Facts

Subspecies: A subspecies of the Plains Zebra (Equus quagga).

Appearance: Narrow, closely spaced black stripes, no light "shadow stripes," and stripes extend all the way to the hooves.

Habitat: Open savannas, grasslands, and woodlands in eastern Zambia, Malawi, southeastern Tanzania, and northern Mozambique.

Diet: Primarily grazers, eating grasses, with other herbivores often following to eat the shorter grass.

Conservation: Considered rare but populations are recovering, especially in areas like Gorongosa National Park and Zambeze Delta Safaris.

Naming: Named after Captain Richard Crawshay, who presented a specimen to the British Museum in 1896.

Ecological Role: Their grazing helps maintain short, nutritious grass, benefiting other grazers like wildebeest. 

22-5-2019 MANA POOLS, ZIMBABWE - PEREGRINE FALCON (JUVENILE) (Falco peregrinus)

The Peregrine Falcon, known scientifically as Falco peregrinus, is a large falcon roughly the size of a crow. It boasts a blue-grey back, barred white underparts, and a distinct black head. This raptor is celebrated for its incredible speed, often exceeding 320 km/h (200 mph) during its characteristic hunting stoop, making it the fastest member of the animal kingdom. The highest recorded speed for a Peregrine Falcon is an astonishing 389 km/h (242 mph).

Adult Peregrine Falcons have a blue-black to slate grey back with indistinct darker barring. Their underparts are white to rusty, barred with thin, clean bands of dark brown or black. The tail is similarly colored but with thin, clean bars. A notable feature is the black "moustache" that sharply contrasts with the pale sides of the neck and white throat. The cere and feet are yellow, while the beak and claws are black. Juveniles are browner with streaked underparts and a pale bluish cere.

Peregrine Falcons are found along mountain ranges, river valleys, coastlines, and increasingly in urban settings, where they utilize tall buildings as nesting sites.

The Peregrine Falcon's breeding range is extensive, spanning from the Arctic tundra to the tropics. It is nearly ubiquitous across the globe, save for extreme polar regions, very high mountains, and most tropical rainforests.

Peregrine Falcons are known for their high-speed hunting stoops. They are territorial during the breeding season, with nesting pairs spaced widely apart. They are adaptable and can thrive in urban environments, taking advantage of the abundance of prey such as pigeons and ducks.

The Peregrine Falcon's vocalizations include a series of loud, sharp "kek-kek-kek" calls, particularly during nesting or when intruders approach the nest.

Peregrine Falcons reach sexual maturity between one and three years of age and mate for life. They nest in a scrape, usually on cliff edges or, in urban areas, on tall structures. They lay a clutch of three to four eggs, which are incubated for about a month.

ly distinguishing features.

The diet of the Peregrine Falcon consists almost exclusively of medium-sized birds, but it may also hunt small mammals, reptiles, or insects. Urban Peregrines often feed on pigeons and other city birds.

The Peregrine Falcon was once endangered due to pesticide use but has recovered remarkably well following the ban on DDT and concerted conservation efforts. It is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN.

22-5-2019 MANA POOLS, ZIMBABWE - SWAINSON'S SPURFOWL (Pternistis swainsonii)

Swainson's spurfowl, also known as Swainson's francolin, is a bird that belongs to the family Phasianidae. It is a native species to the southern regions of Africa. The bird is named in honor of William Swainson, a notable English ornithologist.

The Swainson's spurfowl is found in a variety of habitats, ranging from grasslands to woodlands. These environments provide the necessary cover and food sources for the species.

This bird has a wide range across southern Africa, with sightings confirmed in Angola, Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Eswatini, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

Information on the breeding habits of Swainson's spurfowl includes observations of hatchlings and juveniles in locations such as Kruger National Park and Zambia, indicating active reproduction in these areas.

As with many birds in the Phasianidae family, Swainson's spurfowl have a diet that includes a variety of seeds, insects, and possibly other small invertebrates.

The IUCN Red List has classified Swainson's spurfowl as Least Concern, indicating that, at present, the species does not face any immediate threat of extinction.

22-5-2019 MANA POOLS, ZIMBABWE - LILIAN'S LOVEBIRD (Agapornis lilianae)

Lilian's lovebird (Agapornis lilianae), also known as the Nyasa lovebird, is a small African parrot species of the lovebird genus. It is mainly green and has orange on its upper chest and head. It is 13 cm (5 inches) long and is the smallest parrot on mainland Africa. In captivity, it is uncommon and difficult to breed.

The Lilian's lovebird is 13 cm (5 inches) long and is mainly green with white eyerings. It has orange on its head, neck and upper chest and has a green rump. Male and female are identical in external appearance.

The Lilian's lovebird is often mistaken for the slightly larger Fischer's lovebird, which has an olive-green hood and a blue rump. It is also broadly similar to the rosy-faced lovebird, which has more clearly demarcated orange colouration, and lacks a white eyering.

Lilian's lovebirds feed on grass seeds, millet, wild rice, flowers, and the seeds and fruit of other species.

The breeding season for Lilian's lovebirds is from January to March and in June and July. They make a roofed nest in tree crevices. In captivity the clutch consists of three to eight white eggs, which are incubated for about 22 days, and the chicks leave the nest after about 44 days from hatching.

Lilian's lovebirds are endemic to Malawi, Mozambique, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. In 2004 its numbers in the wild were estimated to be less than 20,000 individuals. It currently inhabits Liwonde National Park (LNP) and a few cluster groups occur in the surrounding forests outside LNP. Its distribution is rapidly becoming restricted to LNP because their feeding and breeding habitats are being exploited over for agricultural purposes. The extent of habitat loss outside LNP has not been determined scientifically although remaining habitat outside the LNP are fragmented Miombo Forest Reserves.

Liwonde National Park is located in the southern region of Malawi, which has the highest human population density in the country approximating 100-115 inhabitants per km2 (FAO, 1997). LNP is greatly impacted by population growth and agricultural activities than any other national park in the country. Recently, cases of Lilian's lovebird poisoning have intensified although it is not known why poachers are poisoning the birds. Lilian's lovebird researchers assume poachers mean to poison larger mammals and lovebirds fall victims.

The lifespan for Lilian's lovebirds is 10–12 years. The major health concern for these species is loneliness. These birds mate for life.

22-5-2019 MANA POOLS, ZIMBABWE - BUSHVELD HELMETED GUINEA FOWL (Numida meleagris ssp. mitratus)

The Bushveld Helmeted Guineafowl is a social, ground-dwelling bird known for its loud calls, black-and-white speckled plumage, and a distinctive bony "helmet" on its head, forming large flocks that forage for insects, seeds, and ticks in savannas, preferring to run from danger rather than fly, though capable of short bursts of flight. They are highly adaptable, roost in trees at night for safety, and are valued in farming for pest control, eating ticks and rodents. 

Appearance & Characteristics

Plumage: Dark gray-black with fine white spots, resembling pearls or beads.

Head: Features a hard, bony knob (casque) and bare skin that can be red, blue, or white/yellow, depending on subspecies.

Size: About 53-58 cm long, with a round body. 

Behavior & Habitat

Social & Gregarious: Forms large flocks (25-40+ birds) outside breeding season, often seen in Kruger National Park and similar savanna areas.

Terrestrial: Spends most of its day on the ground, walking and scratching for food.

22-5-2019 MANA POOLS, ZIMBABWE - GREY GO AWAY BIRD (Corythaixoides concolor)

The grey go-away-bird (Crinifer concolor), also known as grey lourie, grey loerie, or kwêvoël, is a bold and common turaco of the southern Afrotropics. They are present in arid to moist, open woodlands and thorn savanna, especially near surface water. They regularly form groups and parties that forage in tree tops, or dust bathe on the ground. Especially when disturbed, they make their presence known by their characteristically loud and nasal "kweh" or "go-way" calls, with the last syllable typically a descending drawl. Within their range, their unique appearance and habits preclude confusion with other bird species.

The grey go-away-bird was formally described in 1833 by the Scottish zoologist Andrew Smith from specimens collected inland from Port Natal (now Durban) in South Africa. He coined the binomial name Corythaix concolor. The specific epithet concolor is Latin meaning "uniform", "similar in colour" or "plain". The grey go-away-bird is now placed in the genus Crinifer that was introduced by the Polish zoologist Feliks Paweł Jarocki in 1821.

The sexes are similar. They measure 47–51 cm from bill tip to tail tip, and weigh some 200 to 300 g. They have an almost uniform smoky-grey plumage with long tails and (similar to mousebirds) a wispy, back-swept crest of some 6 to 7 cm in length. The crest can be raised almost vertically when excited. The strong, decurved beak is black and the gape and tongue strikingly pink. The plumage is darkest grey on the chin and throat, and palest around the eyes and on the belly. The breast plumage is washed slightly olive like that of its near relative, the bare-faced go-away-bird.

It is native to southern Angola, southern DRC, Zambia, southern Tanzania, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, South Africa and Eswatini. It occupies any arid to moist, and relatively open savanna woodlands, especially where Acacia trees are present. They frequent the edges of miombo woodland, and occur commonly along water courses, dry riparian forest and in Acacia woodland on alluvium. It also occurs commonly on farms and in suburban gardens and parks. They require water, and disperse along tributaries of desert rivers when water flows. It is absent from areas that lack suitable fruiting trees, and seems to desert areas where woody plant encroachment occurs. They have no regular migrations, but wander about irregularly in search of food and water.

22-5-2019 MANA POOLS, ZIMBABWE - 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.

22-5-2019 MANA POOLS, ZIMBABWE - COMMON IMPALA (MALE) (Aepyceros melampus ssp. melampus)

The impala or rooibok (Aepyceros melampus, lit. 'black-footed high-horn' in Ancient Greek) is a medium-sized antelope found in eastern and southern Africa. The only extant member of the genus Aepyceros, and tribe Aepycerotini, it was first described to Europeans by German zoologist Hinrich Lichtenstein in 1812. 

Two subspecies are recognised—the grassland-dwelling common impala (sometimes referred to as the Kenyan impala), and the larger and darker black-faced impala, which lives in slightly more arid, scrubland environments. The impala reaches 70–92 cm (28–36 in) at the shoulder and weighs 40–76 kg (88–168 lb). It features a glossy, reddish brown coat. The male's slender, lyre-shaped horns are 45–92 cm (18–36 in) long.

22-5-2019 MANA POOLS, ZIMBABWE - COMMON IMPALA (FEMALE) (Aepyceros melampus ssp. melampus)

The impala (Aepyceros melampus) is a medium-sized antelope that is found in Africa. It was first described to European audiences by German zoologist Hinrich Lichtenstein in 1812. Active mainly during the day, the impala may be gregarious or territorial depending upon the climate and geography. The impala is known for two characteristic leaps that constitute an anti-predator strategy.

Impala is an elegant and magnificent species of antelope. The animal has slender body with the identifying "M"-like marking on the rear. This medium-sized antelope possesses thin, pointed horns with tips, lying far apart from each other. Males of this species are identified by the characteristic "S"-like horns. The elegant limbs of these animals have scent glands behind the ankles. The overall coloration of their fur is red-brown with paler sides. In addition, they have black and white colored areas on their body. Thus, the tail, belly, chin, lips, inside ears as well as the lines above the eyes are colored with white. Meanwhile, black bands cover their thighs, tail, forehead and ear tips.

Impalas are distributed throughout the northeastern part of South Africa, Angola, southern Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya. Close proximity to a water source is an important life condition for these animals. Generally, they prefer woodland with little undergrowth as well as low to medium-height grassland.

Impalas have polygynous mating system, where each male mates with a number of females. The period of peak breeding activity is March-May. During this period, pregnant females live in isolation to give birth. The gestation period lasts from 194 to 200 days, yielding a single calf, which weighs about 5kgs (11 lbs). After a few days, the calf and the female rejoin the herd. Then, after a while, the calf joins a crèche of other young impalas. They are weaned at 4-5 months old. Male impalas reach reproductive maturity at 1 year of age, while females are ready to breed when they are between 1 and 2 years old. Becoming reproductively mature, they, however, do not rush to establish territories. They typically start mating only at 4 years old.