25-5-2019 MANA POOLS, ZIMBABWE - CHACMA BABOON (FEMALE & JUVENILE) (Papio ursinus)

Chacma baboons are found throughout southern Africa, ranging from South Africa north to Angola, Zambia, and Mozambique. They live in diverse habitats from woodlands to savannas, steppes, and sub-deserts. Chacma baboons are found in the Kalahari Desert as well as on the alpine slopes of the Drakensberg. They usually sleep on hills, cliffs, or large trees and during the day, avoid arid areas with a lack of water.

The Chacma baboon (Papio ursinus) is a member of the Old World monkey family. It is one of the largest of all monkeys. Located primarily in southern Africa, the chacma baboon has a wide variety of social behaviors, including a dominance hierarchy, collective foraging, adoption of young by females, and friendship pairings. In general, the species is not threatened, but hunting, trapping, and accidents kill or remove many baboons from the wild, thereby reducing their numbers and disrupting their social structure.

The Chacma baboon is perhaps the longest species of monkey and it is also one of the heaviest. Adult males can in some instances be about twice as long and three times as heavy as adult females. Perhaps the most distinctive feature of this baboon is its long, downward-sloping face. The Chacma baboon is generally dark brown to gray in color, with a patch of rough hair on the nape of its neck. Unlike the males of northern baboon species (Guinea, hamadryas, and Olive baboons), Chacma males do not have a mane. The three subspecies are differentiated by size and color. The Cape chacma is a large, heavy, dark-brown, and has black feet. The Gray-footed chacma is slightly smaller than the Cape chacma, lighter in color and build, and has gray feet. The Ruacana chacma generally appears to be a smaller, less darkly colored version of the Cape chacma.

25-5-2019 MANA POOLS, ZIMBABWE - BROWN HOODED KINGFISHER (Halcyon albiventris)

The brown-hooded kingfisher (Halcyon albiventris) is a species of bird in the subfamily Halcyoninae, the tree kingfishers. It has a brown head and blackish and turquoise wings. It is found in Sub-Saharan Africa, living in woodland, scrubland, forest edges, and also suburban areas. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has assessed it as being of least concern.

This species was described as Alcedo albiventris by Giovanni Antonio Scopoli in 1786. Four subspecies are recognised: Halcyon albiventris albiventris, H. a. orientalis, H. a. prentissgrayi and H. a. vociferans. Subspecies hylophila and erlangeri have also been described, but they are not considered distinct enough.

The brown-hooded kingfisher is about 22 cm (8.7 in) long. The head is brown, with blackish streaks. There is a broad buffy collar above the brownish-black mantle. The wing coverts are mostly brownish-black, and the secondary flight feathers are turquoise. The rump is azure-blue. The chin is white, the breast is tawny with some dark streaks, and the belly is buffy. The beak is red, tipped brown, the legs are carmine, and the eyes are dark brown. The female has dark brown upperparts, and its underparts are more streaked than the male. The juvenile bird is duller, with scalloped whitish underparts. The subspecies differ in shade and streaking.

This kingfisher is found in Sub-Saharan Africa, in Gabon, Congo, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Angola, Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, Somalia, Mozambique, Malawi, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, South Africa and Eswatini. It occurs below 1,800 m (5,900 ft) in elevation, living in woodland, grassland with trees, scrubland, forest edge, and also cultivations, parks and gardens. It sometimes occurs near water, and can adapt to suburban habitats. Most populations do not migrate, but there is evidence of seasonal movements in some areas.

This kingfisher is generally seen alone or in pairs. It usually forages on the ground, mainly feeding on insects, and also eating scorpions, reptiles, small birds, rodents and fishes. Eating snakes and lizards as long as 25 cm (9.8 in) has been reported. The song, given while vibrating the wings, is a tiiiu or ki-ti-ti-ti trill, and a sharp cheerit is given when alarmed. The breeding season is mainly between September and April. A burrow nest is dug in a river bank, gully or road cutting. The family stays together for a few weeks after breeding.

25-5-2019 MANA POOLS, ZIMBABWE - BENNETT'S WOODPECKER (Campethera bennettii ssp. bennettii)

Bennett's woodpecker (Campethera bennettii) is a species of bird in the family Picidae. It is found in woodlands and bushes in Africa. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has assessed it as a least-concern species.

This species was described by Andrew Smith in 1836. Two subspecies are recognised: Campethera bennettii bennettii and C. b. capricorni. The common name and Latin binomial commemorate the British naturalist Edward Turner Bennett. Bennett's woodpecker, the fine-spotted woodpecker, the Nubian woodpecker and the speckle-throated woodpecker form a superspecies.

Bennett's woodpecker is about 24 cm (9.4 in) long and weighs 61–84 g (2.2–3.0 oz). The male's forehead, crown and nape are red. The chin and throat are white. The upperparts are brown, yellow and white. The underparts are pale yellow, and there are dark spots on the breast and flanks. The eyes are red, the beak is grey, and the legs are bluish-green or grey-green. The female has a black forehead with white spots, and its ear coverts and throat are brown or blackish-brown. The juvenile bird has a black forehead and crown and darker upperparts. The subspecies capricorni is slightly larger, and its underparts have a deeper colour and fewer spots.

This woodpecker is found in Angola, Botswana, Burundi, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Eswatini, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, and it has a patchy distribution. Its habitat is woodlands and bushes, including miombo, Baikiaea, Acacia and mopane woodlands.

25-5-2019 MANA POOLS , ZIMBABWE - COMMON WATERBUCK (MALE) (Kobus ellipsiprymnus ssp. ellipsiprymnus)

The waterbuck (Kobus ellipsiprymnus) is a large antelope found widely in sub-Saharan Africa. It is in the genus Kobus of the family Bovidae. It was first described by Irish naturalist William Ogilby in 1833. Its 13 subspecies are grouped under two varieties: the common or ellipsiprymnus waterbuck and the defassa waterbuck. Their coat colour varies from brown to grey. The long, spiral horns, present only on males, curve backward, then forward, and are 55–99 cm (22–39 in) long.

The waterbuck (Kobus ellipsiprymnus) is a large antelope found widely in sub-Saharan Africa. It is in the genus Kobus of the family Bovidae. It was first described by Irish naturalist William Ogilby in 1833. Its 13 subspecies are grouped under two varieties: the common or ellipsiprymnus waterbuck and the defassa waterbuck. Their coat colour varies from brown to grey. The long, spiral horns, present only on males, curve backward, then forward, and are 55–99 cm (22–39 in) long.

Waterbucks are rather sedentary in nature. As gregarious animals, they may form herds consisting of six to thirty individuals. These groups are either nursery herds with females and their offspring or bachelor herds. Males start showing territorial behaviour from the age of five years, but are most dominant from six to nine. The waterbuck cannot tolerate dehydration in hot weather, and thus inhabits areas close to sources of water. Predominantly a grazer, the waterbuck is mostly found on grassland. In equatorial regions, breeding takes place throughout the year, but births are at their peak in the rainy season. The gestational period lasts 7–8 months, followed by the birth of a single calf.

Waterbucks inhabit scrub and savanna areas along rivers, lakes, and valleys. Due to their requirement for grasslands and water, waterbucks have a sparse ecotone distribution. The IUCN lists the waterbuck as being of least concern. More specifically, the common waterbuck is listed as of least concern, while the defassa waterbuck is near threatened. The population trend for both is downwards, especially that of the defassa, with large populations being eliminated from certain habitats because of poaching and human disturbance.

25-5-2019 MANA POOLS , ZIMBABWE - SPUR WINGED GOOSE (Plectropterus gambensis)

The Spur-winged Goose is Africa's largest waterfowl, known for the sharp spurs on its wings used for defense. These large, black-and-white geese are found in wetlands and floodplains across Sub-Saharan Africa, and they have a unique diet that can include toxic blister beetles, making the birds themselves potentially poisonous to predators, including humans. They are omnivorous, feeding on both plants and small animals, and can cause damage to crops due to their preference for grains and fodder. Physical characteristics and defense They are the largest waterfowl species in Africa, with some males weighing over \(10\) kg.Their appearance is mostly black with metallic green glossing and white on the face and belly, and they have pinkish-red legs and bills.The "spur" is a sharp, hard projection on the bend of each wing, which they use aggressively for defense and territorial disputes with other birds. 

Habitat and diet They inhabit a wide range of wetland habitats, such as rivers, lakes, swamps, and floodplains, but also frequent agricultural fields.They are predominantly herbivores, feeding on seeds, grasses, and crops, but will also eat insects and small fish.Some populations are potentially poisonous due to their diet of blister beetles, which contain the toxin cantharidin. Behavior and breeding Spur-winged Geese are often gregarious and can form large flocks, though they are shy and wary.They are monogamous and their breeding season varies depending on the region.Nests are typically built in vegetation near water, but they will also use tree holes, rock cavities, or termite mounds.Females incubate the eggs and care for the young, while males may stay to defend the area. 

25-5-2019 MANA POOLS , ZIMBABWE - WHITE HELMETSHRIKE (Prinops plumatus)

The White-crested Helmetshrike, Prionops plumatus, also known as the White Helmetshrike, is a striking passerine bird belonging to the Vanga family Vangidae. It is characterized by its prominent white crest and the contrasting black plumage that adorns its body.

This species can be identified by its distinctive white crest, which stands out against its predominantly black body. The wings, when closed, are largely black, and the bird exhibits a curly-crested appearance, particularly noticeable in the subspecies P. p. cristatus.

The White-crested Helmetshrike inhabits a variety of environments, including subtropical or tropical dry forests, dry and moist savannas, as well as subtropical or tropical dry shrublands.

The bird's range extends across a vast swath of Africa, from Angola to Zimbabwe, including countries such as Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, and many others. It is a common sight in these regions, adapting well to its diverse habitats.

A gregarious creature, the White-crested Helmetshrike is often seen in small, active parties. These groups are constantly on the move, foraging among foliage or on the ground. They maintain a noisy chatter amongst themselves as they traverse their territory.

25-5-2019 MANA POOLS , ZIMBABWE - SOUTHERN WARTHOG (Phacochoerus africanus ssp. sundevallii)

The common warthog (Phacochoerus africanus) is a wild member of the pig family (Suidae) found in grassland, savanna, and woodland in sub-Saharan Africa. In the past, it was commonly treated as a subspecies of P. aethiopicus, but today that scientific name is restricted to the desert warthog of northern Kenya, Somalia, and eastern Ethiopia.

The common warthog is a medium-sized species, with a head-and-body length ranging from 0.9 to 1.5 m (2 ft 11 in to 4 ft 11 in), and shoulder height from 63.5 to 85 cm (25.0 to 33.5 in). Females, at 45 to 75 kg (99 to 165 lb), are smaller and lighter than males, at 60 to 150 kg (130 to 330 lb).[4][5] A warthog is identifiable by the two pairs of tusks protruding from the mouth and curving upwards. The lower pair, which is far shorter than the upper pair, becomes razor-sharp by rubbing against the upper pair every time the mouth is opened and closed. The upper canine teeth can grow to 25.5 cm (10.0 in) long and have a wide elliptical cross section, being about 4.5 cm (1.8 in) deep and 2.5 cm (0.98 in) wide. A tusk will curve 90° or more from the root, and will not lie flat on a table, as it curves somewhat backwards as it grows. The tusks are not used for digging, but are used for combat with other hogs and in defense against predators – the lower set can inflict severe wounds.

Common warthog ivory is taken from the constantly growing canine teeth. The tusks, particularly the upper set, work in much the same way as elephant tusks with all designs scaled down. Tusks are carved predominantly for the tourist trade in eastern and southern Africa.[citation needed]

The head of the common warthog is large, with a mane down the spine to the middle of the back. Sparse hair covers the body. Its color is usually black or brown. Tails are long and end with a tuft of hair. Common warthogs do not have subcutaneous fat and the coat is sparse, making them susceptible to extreme environmental temperatures.

As of 1999, the common warthog population in southern Africa was estimated to be about 250,000. Typical densities range between 1 and 10 km2 (0.39 and 3.86 sq mi) in protected areas, but local densities of 77 km2 (30 sq mi) were found on short grass in Nakuru National Park in Kenya. The species is susceptible to drought and hunting (especially with dogs), which may result in localized extinctions. The common warthog is present in numerous protected areas across its extensive range.

25-5-2019 MANA POOLS , ZIMBABWE - COMMON IMPALA (MALE) (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.

25-5-2019 MANA POOLS , ZIMBABWE - COMMON IMPALA (FEMALE) (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.

25-5-2019 MANA POOLS , ZIMBABWE - COFFEE SENNA (Senna occidentalis)

Senna occidentalis, commonly known as coffee senna, styptic weed, or septicweed, is a species of flowering plant in the family Fabaceae and is native to the southern United States of America, Mexico and South America. It is a shrub with pinnate leaves, with three to seven pairs of broadly elliptic to egg-shaped leaflets, and yellow flowers arranged in groups of two to four, with six fertile stamens in each flower. It is an aggressive, pantropical weed.

Senna occidentalis is a foetid shrub that typically grows to a height of 1–2 m (3 ft 3 in – 6 ft 7 in) and has softly-hairy branches and stems. Its leaves are pinnate, 150–170 mm (5.9–6.7 in) long on a petiole 20–40 mm (0.79–1.57 in) long, with three to seven pairs of broadly elliptic to egg-shaped leaflets 50–70 mm (2.0–2.8 in) long and 30–40 mm (1.2–1.6 in) wide, spaced 15–30 mm (0.59–1.18 in) apart. There is a sessile glands near the base of the petiole.

The flowers are yellow and arranged on the ends of branchlets and in upper leaf axils in groups of two to four on a peduncle 2–5 mm (0.079–0.197 in) long, each flower on a pedicel 10–15 mm (0.39–0.59 in) long. The petals are up to 10 mm (0.39 in) long and there are six fertile stamens, the anthers varying in length from 4 to 6 mm (0.16 to 0.24 in) long, and four staminodes. Flowering occurs all year, and the fruit is a cylindrical pod 120–180 mm (4.7–7.1 in) long, about 3 mm (0.12 in) wide and slightly curved.

25-5-2019 MANA POOLS , ZIMBABWE - VERVET MONKEY (Chlorocebus pygerythrus)

The Vervet monkey (Chlorocebus pygerythrus) is an Old World monkey native to Africa. The term "vervet" is also used to refer to all the members of the genus Chlorocebus. These adorable monkeys live in social groups and involve their communication and alarm calls, specifically in regard to kin and group recognition, and particular predator sightings.

The Vervet monkey is of medium to large size and has a black-tipped tail which is often longer than its body. Its fur is olive or gray, lighter on the underside. Its hands and feet are black, as are its ears and face. Its face has a white band above it, framed with white cheek tufts. Its arms and legs are long, about the same length as each other, to enable the monkey to walk with ease on all fours while on the ground, and this actually makes it quite speedy when running. The males tend to be bigger than the females.

25-5-2019 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.

5-5-2019 MANA POOLS , ZIMBABWE - SMITH'S BUSH SQUIRREL (Paraderus Cepapi)

Smith's bush squirrels are diurnal, arboreal animals from southern Central and East Africa that weigh about \(200\) grams and are about \(35\) cm long, with a tail that is half their body length. They have a varied diet of seeds, fruits, and insects, and live in territorial family groups in tree holes. Their fur color varies regionally, and they are known for their social behavior, such as mutual grooming, which strengthens group cohesion.

Appearance 

Size: About \(35\) cm in total length, with a tail that is half of that length.

Weight: Approximately \(200\) grams.

Color: Fur color varies by region; it can be pale grey in the west or more brown in the east. They have a reddish-brown head and legs, with a white or buff/yellowish chest and a white belly.Features: They are alert, have a long tail they carry straight behind them, and their belly is always white. 

Habitat and behavior Habitat: They live in woodland savannas in parts of Southern, Central, and East Africa.Activity: They are diurnal (active during the day) and arboreal (tree-dwelling), but also spend a lot of time foraging on the ground.

Social structure: They live in territorial family groups of 2 to 12 individuals that nest in tree holes.Grooming: They practice mutual grooming to promote group cohesion.

Reproduction: The young are sexually mature between six and nine months and are then expelled by the parents. A litter typically consists of two offspring.

Diet Primary food: Mostly vegetarian, including seeds, fruits, nuts, flowers, and leaves.

Insects: They also eat insects and arthropods, particularly during breeding season.

Specific preferences: They show a preference for seeds and gums from acacias and seeds and flowers from aloes. 

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.

21-7-2019 VILLALONGA RESERVOIR, VALENCIA - GREY CROSS SPIDER (Larinioides sclopetarius)

Larinioides sclopetarius, commonly called bridge-spider or gray cross-spider, is a relatively large orb-weaver spider with Holarctic distribution. These spiders originated in Europe, have been observed as south as the Mediterranean Coast and as north as Finland, and have been introduced to North America. They are often found on bridges, especially near light and over water. The species tends to live on steel objects and is seldom seen on vegetation. Females reach a body length of 10–14 mm, and males 8–9 mm. Their orb webs can have diameters of up to 70 cm.

L. sclopetarius is attracted to light. Spiders found near light sources may be in better condition and have greater reproductive success than spiders living in unlit areas.[5] Most of these lighted areas are found in cities or other metropolitan areas. As a result, many urban areas have become saturated with these spiders. As many as 100 of these spiders can be found in a square meter in optimal feeding locations.

L. sclopetarius often hide during the day, and wait for prey in the center of their web at night. In high-density populations, spiders may remain sedentary to protect their territories. Mature females and juvenile spiders will often build webs. However, adult males generally inhabit adult female webs. Males can be found mostly during summer, while females are active until November in Central Europe.

The common name "bridge-spider" is attributed to its preferential habitat of building webs on bridges.

Lariniodes sclopetarius was first recorded by Carl Clerck in 1757. The genus Lariniodes indicates that they create large noticeable orb webs.

There has been some dispute in how the spider should be classified. The spider has been proposed as a synonym for L. cornutus due to their similar male pedipalps. However, their habitats vary greatly. This finding has been used as evidence that these two species are distinct.

21-7-2019 VILLALONGA RESERVOIR, 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. 

21-7-2019 VILLALONGA RESERVOIR, VALENCIA - COPPER DEMOISELLE DAMSELFLY (FEMALE) (Calopteryx haemorrhoidalis)

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

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

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

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

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

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

This species can hybridize with Calopteryx splendens.

21-7-2019 VILLALONGA RESERVOIR, VALENCIA - CATALONIA WALL LIZARD (Podarcis liolepis)

Podarcis liolepis, the Columbretes wall lizard or Catalan wall lizard, is very similar to the other lizards in the genus Podarcis. This species was formerly described as a subspecies of the Iberian wall lizard, but has now been elevated to species status. These are slender lizards with long tails, narrow tapered heads and long thin toes, and stout legs. Colours are variable, although generally grey-brown. Often very subtle spots and stripes along the back and flanks can be seen and these can be more distinguished in the female. The underside is a much lighter cream or beige with sometimes a reddish tint.

Adults grow 15–20 cm in length from the nose to tip of the tail. Body length can be a little as one third of the total body length, the tail making up the other two thirds.

21-7-2019 GANDIA MARJAL, VALENCIA - HYBRID MALLARD (MALE)

Hybrid mallards occur when mallards breed with other duck species (like American Black Ducks, Pintails, or even domestic ducks), creating offspring with mixed traits, such as orange legs, blotchy bills, or patches of green on dark heads, posing a genetic threat to pure species like the Florida Mottled Duck and Hawaiian Duck. 

Key Facts About Mallard Hybrids:Common Parents: Most fertile hybrids involve close relatives like the American Black Duck (Anas rubripes) and Northern Pintail (Anas acuta).

Appearance Varies: They can look like a mix (e.g., dark body with a green head patch) or almost identical to one parent, but often have tell-tale signs like bright orange legs, patchy bills, or extra white on the wing panel (speculum).

Genetic Threat: Hybridization can dilute the gene pool of pure species, leading to fewer pure individuals and potentially extinction for vulnerable ducks like the Florida Mottled Duck and Hawaiian Duck (Koloa).

Domestic Influence: Feral (domestic) mallards frequently interbreed with wild mallards, making genetic analysis complex and introducing domestic traits into wild populations.

Causes: While some hybridization is natural, forced copulation (males mating outside their species) is a significant factor, especially in areas with high feral mallard populations. Identification Tips:

Males: Look for mallard traits like curled tail feathers or a hint of green on the head mixed with dark plumage, notes this blog post.

Females: More challenging, but watch for darker females with features not quite matching a pure female mallard or black duck, such as a patchy speculum, say the Sorell Council.

Legs: Consistently bright orange legs are a strong indicator of mallard parentage. 

21-7-2019 GANDIA MARJAL, VALENCIA - EUROPEAN MOORHEN (FEMALE & JUVENILE) (Gallinula chloropus)

The common moorhen, known scientifically as Gallinula chloropus, is a bird of the rail family, Rallidae. It is a bird of striking appearance, with a mix of black and brown plumage, a white under-tail, and white streaks along its flanks. Its legs are a vibrant yellow, and it sports a distinctive red frontal shield. The bill is a matching red with a yellow tip. Juveniles are a duller brown and do not have the red shield.

Adult moorhens can be identified by their red frontal shield, which has a rounded top and fairly parallel sides. The tailward margin of the red unfeathered area is smoothly curved. Their yellow legs and the combination of their black and brown plumage with white markings make them quite distinctive. The young are browner and lack the red shield, making them less conspicuous.

The common moorhen is found in a variety of wetland habitats, including marshes, ponds, canals, and lakes that are rich in vegetation. It is also known to inhabit city parks with suitable water bodies.

25-5-2019 MANA POOLS , ZIMBABWE - SIDE STRIPED JACKAL (Canis adustus)

The side-striped jackal is a medium-sized, omnivorous canid in sub-Saharan Africa, known for the faint white stripe running along its flanks and a white-tipped tail. These adaptable animals are mainly nocturnal, live in monogamous pairs, and their diet varies seasonally to include small animals, insects, fruits, and carrion. They inhabit diverse environments, including savanna woodlands, marshes, and even human settlements, and are classified as 'Least Concern' by the IUCN due to stable populations. 

Appearance and physical traits

Stripes: The most distinctive feature is a faint white stripe running from the elbow to the hip on each side, with black lower margins.

Tail: Their tail is black with a white tip.

Color: They are typically buff-grey, with a darker back and lighter undersides.

Size: They are slightly larger than black-backed jackals, with males being somewhat larger than females.

Mass: Males can weigh 7.3 to 12 kg, while females rarely exceed 10 kg.

Length: Head and body length is around 650-800 mm.

Shoulder height: Around 400-500 mm. 

Habitat and behavior

Habitat: They are adaptable and can be found in savanna woodlands, bushveld, marshes, and even towns and farmlands.

Activity: They are primarily nocturnal but can also be active during the day.

Social structure: They are monogamous and form pairs that can last for life. They live in family groups that help raise the young.

Dens: Dens are often found in termite mounds or disused aardvark burrows. 

Diet and feeding

Omnivorous: Their diet is opportunistic and flexible, consisting of both plants and animals.

Food sources: They eat insects, small mammals, birds, reptiles, fruits, and carrion.

Scavenging: They will scavenge from rubbish dumps in urban and peri-urban areas. 

Reproduction and lifespan

Breeding: Breeding seasons vary by location, occurring from June to November in southern Africa.

Gestation: The gestation period is about 63 days.

Litter size: Females typically give birth to a litter of 1 to 6 pups.

Lifespan: They can live up to 14 years in the wild. 

Conservation status

IUCN Classification: 'Least Concern' (LC) due to stable populations.

Threats: They face threats from persecution by farmers protecting livestock and from being killed or poisoned due to their perceived role in rabies transmission. 

24-5-2019 MANA POOLS, ZIMBABWE - GENUS CROSSANDRA

Crossandra is a genus of plants in the family Acanthaceae, comprising 54 species that occur in Africa, Madagascar, Arabia and the Indian subcontinent. Some species, especially Crossandra infundibuliformis, are cultivated for their brightly colored flowers.

24-5-2019 MANA POOLS, ZIMBABWE - ELEGANT DROPWING DRAGONFLY (MALE) (Trithemis werneri)

Trithemis werneri is a species of dragonfly in the family Libellulidae. It is found in Angola, the Republic of the Congo, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, South Africa, Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and possibly Burundi. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests, subtropical or tropical dry shrubland, subtropical or tropical moist shrubland, and rivers.

The Elegant Dropwing (Trithemis werneri) is a species of dragonfly native to sub-Saharan Africa, known for the male's distinct orange/red coloring and its habit of perching away from the water on tree branches. 

Named after Dr. Franz Werner, an Austrian zoologist who collected the first specimens in Uganda in 1905. 

Key Facts

Scientific Name: Trithemis werneri.

Appearance: Mature males have a red abdomen and brownish thorax with orange/mustard-yellow coloring and large amber patches on the hind wings. Females are less vibrant with a yellow to yellowish-brown abdomen and face.

Size: They are a small to medium-sized dragonfly, up to 40mm long with a wingspan up to 66mm.

Habitat: They inhabit large tropical and subtropical rivers and streams in savanna regions, often in well-wooded areas.

Behavior: This species typically perches on trees and large bushes, often far from the water. They "drop" their wings when resting, a trait of the Trithemis genus.

Distribution: Found in numerous African countries, including Angola, Kenya, South Africa, Sudan, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe.

Conservation Status: Globally listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. The South African population is Near Threatened due to its need for undisturbed habitats.

24-5-2019 MANA POOLS, ZIMBABWE - VIOLET DROPWING DRAGONFLY (FEMALE) (Trithemis annulata)

Trithemis annulata is a robust medium-sized species with a wingspan of 60 mm (2.4 in). The mature male has a dark red head and a yellow labium with brown central spot. The eyes are red with white spots on the rear edge, and the frons is dark metallic purplish-red. The prothorax is violet with slightly darker longitudinal stripes. The membranous wings have distinctive red veins, the pterostigma is orange-brown and there is a large orange-brown splash at the base of the hind wings. The abdomen is fairly broad and is pinkish-violet, with purple markings on the top of each segment and blackish markings on the terminal three segments. Females are a similar size to males but the thorax is brownish and the abdomen is yellow with dark brown markings. The wings of females lack the red veins of males but have similar orange-brown patches. It is very similar in appearance to the red-veined dropwing (Trithemis arteriosa), but that species has a more slender abdomen and a wedge-shaped black area on either side of the tip of the abdomen.

24-5-2019 MANA POOLS, ZIMBABWE - CAPE ELAND (FEMALE) (Tragelaphus oryx ssp. oryx)

The Common eland (Taurotragus oryx) is an antelope species from East and Southern Africa. It was scientifically described by Peter Simon Pallas in 1766. The Common eland is used by humans for leather, meat, and milk, and has been domesticated in many areas. Common elands are spiral-horned antelopes. Their coat differs geographically, with elands in the northern part of their range having distinctive markings (torso stripes, markings on legs, dark garters, and a spinal crest) that are absent in the south. Apart from a rough mane, the coat is smooth. Females have a tan coat, while the coats of males are darker, with a bluish-grey tinge. Bulls may also have a series of vertical white stripes on their sides (mainly in parts of the Karoo in South Africa).

As males age, their coat becomes more grey. Males also have dense fur on their foreheads and a large dewlap on their throats. Both sexes have horns with a steady spiral ridge (resembling that of the bushbuck). The horns are visible as small buds in newborns and grow rapidly during the first seven months. The horns of males are thicker and shorter than those of females (males' horns are 43066 cm (17-26 in) long and females' are 51-69 cm (20-27 in) long), and have a tighter spiral.