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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The pied kingfisher can be confused with other black and white kingfishers, but its size, habitat preference, and behavior make it distinctive.

Boldly marked black-and-white kingfisher with short, bushy crest and glossy all-dark bill. Superficially similar to Crested Kingfisher, but smaller, with a much more distinctly patterned head and breast and less erect crest. Frequently seen perched in pairs or small groups. Often hovers over water when seeking prey. Inhabits a wide range of waterside habitats, from lakes to estuaries to mangroves. Gives a variety of sharp notes, as well as dry trilling and rattling calls.

Primarily piscivorous, the pied kingfisher feeds on fish, crustaceans, and large aquatic insects. It employs a unique hunting technique of hovering over water before diving headfirst to catch prey. It is capable of consuming its catch mid-flight, allowing it to hunt over large bodies of water.

The pied kingfisher is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating that it is not at immediate risk of population decline.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

29-4-2018 VILLALONGA RESERVOIR, VALENCIA - EURASIAN GREAT CORMORANT (Phalacrocorax carbo)

The Great cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) is a widespread member of the cormorant family of seabirds. Many fishermen see in the Great cormorant a competitor for fish. Because of this, it was hunted nearly to extinction in the past but luckily due to conservation efforts, its numbers increased.

The Great cormorant is a large black bird, but there is a wide variation in size in the species' wide range. Males are typically larger and heavier than females. It has a longish tail and yellow throat patch. Adults have white patches on the thighs and on the throat in the breeding season. In European waters, the Great cormorant can be distinguished from the Common shag by its larger size, heavier build, thicker bill, lack of a crest, and plumage without any green tinge. In eastern North America, it is similarly larger and bulkier than the Double-crested cormorant, and the latter species has more yellow on the throat and bill and lack the white thigh patches frequently seen on great cormorants.

29-4-2018 VILLALONGA RESERVOIR, VALENCIA - BOAR THISTLE (Galactites tomentosus)

Galactites tomentosus, the purple milk thistle, is a biennial herbaceous plant belonging to the genus Galactites of the Asteraceae family.

Galactites tomentosus is a hemicryptophyte plant up to 1 metre (3 ft 3 in) tall. The stem is erect and pubescent, branched at the top. The leaves are green, long and pinnatisect, lanceolate, mottled with white markings, while the underside is whitish and covered with matted woolly hairs. The margins of the leaves bear strong thorns.

The flower heads are quite large – about 3 centimetres (1.2 in) in diameter. The involucre of the flower head is covered by hairy scales ending with a single grooved thorn. The central flowers are hermaphrodite and are pollinated by insects, while external flowers are sterile; their color varies from white or pink to lilac-purple.

The flowering period extends from April through July and the seeds ripen from August through September[citation needed]. The fruits are achenes with whitish hairy appendages (pappus).

 

The genus name derives from the Greek γάλα (= "milk"), referring to the dense white hairs covering the stems and leaves of this species, the species name tomentosus means hairy in Latin.

This plant is distributed around the Mediterranean Basin, from Greece to the Iberian Peninsula, Morocco and Madeira and Canary Islands. It has been introduced to the Azores.

This plant prefers sunny places and usually grows on the uncultivated or barren grounds, waste places, well-drained soils, pastures and roadsides.[3]

It is an edible plant.

29-4-2018 VILLALONGA RESERVOIR, VALENCIA - LARGE BINDWEED (Calystegia silvatica)

Calystegia silvatica (large bindweed) is the largest species of bindweed and is a strong rampant climber. It is native to southern Europe but has been introduced to many other areas because it is an attractive garden plant. Calystegia silvatica subsp. fraterniflora (Mack. & Bush) Brummitt (short-stalked false bindweed) is native to North America.

It has large, arrow-shaped leaves and showy white trumpet-shaped flowers up to 9 centimeters in diameter. It is considered a weed in some areas where it has escaped cultivation and now grows wild. It spreads easily via hardy rhizomes. There are several subspecies.

Large bindweed is a glabrous herbaceous perennial that twines in a counter-clockwise direction to a height of up to 5 m. The leaves are arranged alternately on the spiralling stem on petioles up to 15 cm. The leaves are dull green above and paler below, simple and sagittate (arrowhead shaped), up to 15 cm long and up to 9 cm wide.

The flowers are white, sometimes narrowly pink on the outside only, produced from late spring to the end of summer (between July and September in northern Europe). The buds are enclosed by large (4.8 cm long), ovate, green bracteoles pouched at the base; during anthesis they strongly overlap. The open flowers are trumpet-shaped and 6–9 cm diameter. After flowering, the fruit develops as an almost spherical capsule, which is hidden by the bracts. It is 1 cm in diameter, containing two to four large, dark brown or black seeds that are shaped like quartered oranges.

27-4-2018 CAMI LES FONTS OLIVA, VALENCIA - PINK SORREL (oxalis articulata)

Oxalis articulata, known as pink-sorrel, pink wood sorrel, windowbox wood-sorrel, chari amilo (Nepal), sourgrass, netho (khatta) saag (India) is a perennial plant species in the genus Oxalis native to temperate South America. It has been introduced in Europe in gardens and is now naturalized in these areas.

The plant is susceptible to rust (disease due to the fungus Puccinia oxalidis).

As the name would imply, this species of Oxalis typically has pink to violet flowers with petals 10–15 mm long. This species has "Plants arising from a thick, woody, irregularly nodulate-segmented rhizome often with persistent, thickened, and lignescent petiole bases; flowers 3–12 in umbelliform cymes, less commonly in irregular cymes".[9] The plant is a perennial and typically grows up to 45 cm tall and 2 cm in diameter.[5] It spreads by rhizomes (up to 15 cm) to form colonies. It is hermaphrodite and also infrequently produces seeds in long, cylindrical capsules.

17-4-2018 CHOBE RIVER, BOTSWANA - COMMON SANDPIPER (Actitis hypoleucos)

The Common Sandpiper, Actitis hypoleucos, is a small wader of the Palearctic region, easily recognized by its greyish-brown upperparts and pristine white underparts. Adults typically measure between 18-20 cm in length, with a wingspan of 32-35 cm. They possess short, dark-yellowish legs and feet, and a bill that is pale at the base with a dark tip.

In the field, look for the Common Sandpiper's distinctive stiff-winged flight pattern, just above the water's surface. During the non-breeding season, they appear duller and exhibit more noticeable barring on the wings, which is most visible at close range. Juveniles display heavier barring above and buff edges to their wing feathers. The species can be differentiated from the similar Spotted Sandpiper by its darker legs and feet and the crisper wing pattern, especially in flight.

These birds are often found near freshwater sources, where they nest on the ground in close proximity to the water's edge.

The Common Sandpiper breeds across much of temperate and subtropical Europe and Asia. It is a migratory bird, wintering in Africa, southern Asia, and Australia. During migration, large numbers may congregate in stop-over locations such as Palau in Micronesia.

Common Sandpipers are typically solitary or found in small groups. They may form larger flocks during migration or at breeding season roosts but seldom join multispecies flocks.

When breeding, these birds nest on the ground near freshwater. A notable behavior is the young's ability to cling to a parent's body, being flown to safety when threatened.

The Spotted Sandpiper (A. macularia) is the most similar species, especially in non-breeding plumage. However, the Common Sandpiper's darker legs and more defined wing pattern in flight help distinguish it.

The Common Sandpiper forages by sight, picking up small food items such as insects, crustaceans, and other invertebrates from the ground or shallow water. It is also known to catch insects in flight.

The species is widespread and common, thus classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. However, it is considered vulnerable in some Australian states. The Common Sandpiper is protected under the Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds (AEWA).

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

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

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

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

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

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

A diet primarily composed of insects and small invertebrates sustains the White-crowned Lapwing. It often feeds in small groups, especially when not engaged in breeding activities.

The White-crowned Lapwing is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN. It is also a species protected under the Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds (AEWA), ensuring international efforts are made to safeguard its future.

17-4-2018 CHOBE RIVER, BOTSWANA - AFRICAN PIED WAGTAIL (Motacilla aguimp)

The African pied wagtail, or African wagtail, (Motacilla aguimp) is a species of bird in the family Motacillidae.

A striking black and white wagtail with black upperparts contrasting with white underparts, it has a white supercilium and a white patch in the folded wing. Juvenile birds are greyer, while birds of the nominate subspecies show grey flanks. They are 20 cm (7.9 in) long.

The African pied wagtail is found in sub-Saharan Africa from the Eastern Cape north to extreme southern Egypt and from Guinea to western Eritrea and Somalia. It is a vagrant to Burkina Faso, Gambia, Mauritania, and the Western Cape.

The African pied wagtail inhabits subtropical or tropical, seasonally wet or flooded, lowland grassland, rivers, and sometimes freshwater marshes. In some areas, it is commensal with humans in towns and villages.

In Malawi, African pied wagtails start breeding before the rains and continue to breed into the rainy season; they breed during six months, peaking in March and October. Both the males and females participate in nest building, but only the females incubate, and both sexes feed the young. The mean clutch in Malawi was found to be 3.9 eggs.

The African pied wagtail is monogamous; the cup-shaped nest is lined with grass and feathers and is usually situated near water in a convenient tangle of sticks. In settlements, the nest may be located on buildings. The nests of the African pied wagtail are parasitised by the red-chested cuckoo Cuculus solitarius and the diderick cuckoo Chrysococcyx caprius. The chicks have been recorded as prey of Burchell's coucal Centropus burchellii.

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

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

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

The African Jacana thrives in shallow lakes, where it can be seen gracefully walking on floating vegetation, a habitat it prefers and is uniquely adapted to inhabit.

This species enjoys a wide distribution across sub-Saharan Africa, where it is commonly found in suitable wetland habitats.

The African Jacana is sedentary, with some seasonal dispersion. It exhibits a polyandrous mating system, where a dominant female mates with multiple males. The males are solely responsible for incubating the eggs and rearing the chicks, showcasing remarkable adaptations for parental care, such as the ability to carry chicks under their wings.

Breeding occurs throughout sub-Saharan Africa. The African Jacana lays four brown eggs marked with black, in a nest that floats amidst the vegetation. The male takes on the role of incubating the eggs and caring for the young, a testament to the species' unique breeding system.

The African Jacana might be confused with the Madagascar Jacana, which is similar in size. However, the latter is geographically isolated to Madagascar, reducing the likelihood of confusion within the African Jacana's range.

The diet consists primarily of insects and other invertebrates, which the African Jacana deftly picks from the water's surface or from the floating vegetation it frequents.

The IUCN Red List classifies the African Jacana as Least Concern, indicating that, currently, there are no immediate threats to its population levels.

17-4-2018 CHOBE RIVER, BOTSWANA - SAVANNAH 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 (11,000–15,000 lb); the largest recorded specimen had a shoulder height of 3.96 metres (13.0 ft) and an estimated body mass of 10.4 tonnes (23,000 lb). 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.

12-4-2018 VICTORIA FALLS, ZIMBABWE - WHITE BROWED SPARROW WEAVER (Plocepasser mahili)

The White-browed Sparrow-Weaver (Plocepasser mahali) is a bird of modest size, comparable to a sparrow, with a length ranging from 17 to 19 cm. It is predominantly brown with a distinctive broad, white eyebrow stripe and a white rump that becomes conspicuous during flight. Males are marked by a stark black bill, while females exhibit a horn-colored bill, and juveniles possess a pinkish-brown bill. In Zimbabwe, this species may show faint brown spotting across its white breast.

To identify the White-browed Sparrow-Weaver, look for the white eyebrow stripe and the white rump in flight. The male's black bill is a key distinguishing feature, contrasting with the female's lighter bill. The bird's size and general brown plumage also aid in identification.

This species is typically found in dry regions with woodland or wooded grassland. It nests in colonies along thornveld and scrubby, dry riverbanks.

The White-browed Sparrow-Weaver is prevalent in north-central southern Africa, with its range extending from Botswana to Tanzania and western Mozambique, and as far north as Ethiopia. It is particularly abundant in South Luangwa National Park, Zambia, and southern Malawi.

Groups of two to eleven individuals, including one breeding pair and non-reproductive members, are active year-round, engaging in nest-building. The species is sedentary, with populations remaining in the same area.

The bird's vocalizations include a brief "chik-chick" or a loud, fluid whistle of "cheoop-preeoo-chop."

Breeding occurs mainly in the warmer months, although it can be observed year-round. Nests are constructed on the leeward side of trees to withstand weather conditions, with some nests being used by other bird species.

The Yellow-throated Petronia is similar but can be differentiated by its pinkish brown bill, buff eyebrow stripe, black feet, and yellow shading at the bottom of a white throat. It is also smaller in size and found in different habitats.

The White-browed Sparrow-Weaver is classified as Least Concern, with populations becoming more abundant and expanding their range in various directions.

12-4-2018 VICTORIA FALLS, ZIMBABWE - CHOBE DWARF (Lygodactylus capensis)

The Okavango dwarf gecko or Chobe dwarf gecko (Lygodactylus chobiensis) is a species of gecko found along the Chobe and Zambesi Rivers and into the Okavango Delta, and into Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Zambia.

A large dwarf gecko (normally 25–30 mm in snout–vent length) with males being slightly larger than the females. It has a blue-grey back covered with large pale spots and a yellow belly. The male throat may be black or pale yellow and has two dark chevrons.

They mature at around 9 months and have a lifespan of 18 months.

The Okavango dwarf gecko is normally arboreal and can found on tree trunks and sometimes buildings of the tropical savanna and flooded grasslands. It prefers to forage high up in trees and can often be found on acacia, baobab and mopane trees.

Their diet is mainly ants and termites.

Reproduction occurs throughout the year and two hard-shelled eggs (5 × 6.5 mm) are laid every 8 weeks beneath the tree bark or in disused termite mound. The eggs hatch in about 125 days and the young geckos are about 30 mm in length.

12-4-2018 VICTORIA FALLS, ZIMBABWE - CHOBE DWARF GECKO (Lygodactylus chobiensis)

The Okavango dwarf gecko or Chobe dwarf gecko (Lygodactylus chobiensis) is a species of gecko found along the Chobe and Zambesi Rivers and into the Okavango Delta, and into Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Zambia.

A large dwarf gecko (normally 25–30 mm in snout–vent length) with males being slightly larger than the females. It has a blue-grey back covered with large pale spots and a yellow belly. The male throat may be black or pale yellow and has two dark chevrons.

They mature at around 9 months and have a lifespan of 18 months.

12-4-2018 VICTORIA FALLS, ZIMBABWE - GUTTURAL TOAD (Sclerophrys gutturalis)

Sclerophrys gutturalis, the African common toad or guttural toad, is a species of toad in the family Bufonidae. It is found in Africa in a region stretching from Kenya west to Angola and south to South Africa. This includes southern Angola, Botswana, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Eswatini, Kenya, Lesotho, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Réunion, Somalia, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.[citation needed] Its natural habitats include forest, savanna and wetland areas. In particular, subtropical or tropical dry forest, subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest, subtropical or tropical moist montane forest, dry savanna, moist savanna, temperate shrubland, subtropical or tropical dry shrubland, subtropical or tropical moist shrubland, subtropical or tropical dry lowland grassland, subtropical or tropical seasonally wet or flooded lowland grassland, subtropical or tropical high-altitude grassland, intermittent rivers, freshwater lakes, intermittent freshwater lakes, freshwater marshes, intermittent freshwater marshes, arable land, pastureland, rural gardens, urban areas, heavily degraded former forest, ponds, and canals and ditches.

The guttural toad is a large species with males growing to a snout-to-vent length of up to 90 mm (3.5 in) and females 120 mm (4.7 in). The upper surface is buffish brown with variable irregular dark brown markings. There are two pairs of brown spots between the eyes making a cross-like mark, and there is often a pale stripe down the spine. The arms are edged by distinctive white tubercles and there is a red patch on the back of the thighs. The underparts are pale and granular and the male has a dark throat. The parotid glands are prominent and the toes are only slightly webbed.

6-4-2018 THORNYBUSH GAME LODGE, SOUTH AFRICA - INCOLOROUS PEARL MOTH (Hodebertia testalis)

Hodebertia is a genus of micro-moth of the family Crambidae. It contains only one species, Hodebertia testalis, and is found in the tropics, but ranges north to parts of Europe on occasion.

Adults are white, with two ragged brown arcs across each wing. The larvae feed on Hibiscus, Gomphocarpus and Asclepias species (including Asclepias curassavica).

Hodebertia testalis is an African tropical species which has been recorded in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Madagascar, Mozambique, Réunion, Saint Helena, Somalia, South Africa and Zambia. It is occasionally found in Europe and has been reported from Croatia, England (St Mary's, Isles of Scilly), France, Greece, Italy, Portugal, Spain and Switzerland. Elsewhere it has been found in Australia (Queensland), India, Indonesia, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, Syria, Taiwan and Yemen.

24-4-2018 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA - RUFOUS NECKED WRYNECK (Jynx ruficollis)

The red-throated wryneck, also known as the rufous-necked wryneck or red-breasted wryneck, is a member of the woodpecker family, though its behavior and morphology are quite distinct from the typical woodpecker. This slim, elongated bird measures approximately 19 cm (7.5 inches) in length and is characterized by a small head, fine bill, long fan-shaped tail, and cryptic plumage intricately patterned in greys and browns. Both sexes are similar in appearance, with males being slightly larger.

In the field, the red-throated wryneck can be identified by its brown upperparts, barred and mottled in dark shades, and a grey rump with speckles of brown and black. The chin, throat, and breast of the nominate subspecies are red, while the lower breast and belly are white with dark streaks. The wings are brown above and more buff-toned below. The bill is grey, the irides are chestnut, and the legs are also grey.

The red-throated wryneck favors open grasslands with trees, particularly acacia, as well as miombo woodlands. It can also be found in semi-open woodlands, forest edges, clearings, and man-made habitats such as farmland, parks, and gardens, provided there are trees present.

This species is resident in much of sub-Saharan Africa, with its range extending from Nigeria and Cameroon in the north to South Africa and Eswatini in the south. It is found at altitudes ranging from 600 to 3,300 meters (2,000 to 10,800 feet).

The red-throated wryneck typically perches upright on a branch, often with its tail and wings pointing vertically down. When threatened, it will twist its neck and head in a snake-like manner while making a hissing sound. It flies with a bouncing motion typical of woodpeckers and is territorial, with pairs defending their space through calls from prominent perches.

The bird's call is a series of repeated harsh, shrill notes, slower than that of the Eurasian wryneck. It also has an alarm call and makes wheezing squeaks as a chick, which later develop into a buzzing sound.

The red-throated wryneck nests in pre-existing holes, usually in trees, and prefers old barbet or woodpecker nests. The clutch typically consists of three or four white eggs, which are incubated by both sexes for 12-15 days. The chicks are fed by both adults for 25-26 days until they fledge, and there are usually two broods.

The red-throated wryneck is unlikely to be confused with other species, except possibly with the Eurasian wryneck during its wintering period within the African species' range. However, the red-throated wryneck can be distinguished by its red throat, larger size, and overall browner appearance.

The diet of the red-throated wryneck is almost entirely composed of ants at all stages of their life cycles. It forages mostly on the ground, probing into ant hills, and occasionally feeds on termites and other small invertebrates.

The red-throated wryneck has a very extensive range, and its population is large and increasing. It is evaluated as a species of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

6-4-2018 THORNYBUSH GAME LODGE, SOUTH AFRICA - RED BILLED OXPECKER (Buphagus erythrorhynchus)

The red-billed oxpecker, known scientifically as Buphagus erythrorynchus, is a passerine bird distinguished by its mutualistic relationship with large mammals. It is a member of the Buphagidae family, characterized by its striking red bill.

Adult red-billed oxpeckers exhibit a sharp contrast between their red bills and predominantly brown plumage. Juveniles, however, are darker in color and possess an olive bill that transitions to the adult's red as they mature, a process taking approximately four months. In flight, these birds are robust and purposeful, easily recognized by their hissy, crackling calls.

The red-billed oxpecker is a denizen of the open savannahs of sub-Saharan Africa, where it thrives in the expansive grasslands dotted with acacia trees.

6-4-2018 THORNYBUSH GAME LODGE, SOUTH AFRICA - SOUTHERN RED BILLED HORNBILL (Tockus rufirostris)

The Southern red-billed hornbill, Tockus rufirostris, is a distinguished member of the Bucerotidae family, gracing the savannas and drier bushlands of southern Africa with its presence. This bird is characterized by its striking red bill and the streaks of blackish plumage that extend from its ear coverts down the side of its neck.

Upon observing this species, one will note the sexual dimorphism where males are generally larger with slightly longer bills. The male's lower mandible may exhibit varying degrees of black pigmentation. Both sexes boast a yellow iris surrounded by pale orbital skin, ranging from pink to greyish hues. The throat is a pristine white, and the wing coverts are adorned with conspicuous spots.

The Southern red-billed hornbill is a native inhabitant of the savannas and dryer bushlands, thriving in these open environments where it can forage and nest.

This hornbill's range extends from Malawi and Zambia to southern Angola, northeastern Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, eastern Eswatini, and northern South Africa, including Transvaal and northern KZN province. It is also found in the upper Zambezi valley of Mozambique, though it is mostly absent from the eastern lowlands.

A notable behavior of the Southern red-billed hornbill is its unique call, an accelerating series of notes that culminates in a crescendo of double notes. Unlike its congeners, this species does not engage in wing-raising displays.

The vocal repertoire of this hornbill includes a distinctive call that starts with a series of "kuk kuk kuk" notes and ends with a flourish of double notes, "kuk-we kuk-we."

The Southern red-billed hornbill can be confused with other red-billed hornbills, but it can be distinguished by its unique combination of yellow iris, pale orbital skin, and the pattern of blackish streaking on the neck.

The conservation status of the Southern red-billed hornbill is not explicitly mentioned, but given its wide distribution, it may not currently be of significant conservation concern. However, like all wildlife, it would benefit from ongoing habitat protection and monitoring.

6-4-2018 THORNYBUSH GAME LODGE, SOUTH AFRICA - EASTERN PARADISE WHYDAH (Vidua paradisaea)

The Long-tailed Paradise Whydah, also known as the Eastern Paradise Whydah, is a small passerine bird with a rather unassuming appearance outside of the breeding season. These birds are characterized by their short, stubby bills and are primarily granivorous, feeding on seeds that have ripened and fallen to the ground.

Distinguishing between male and female Long-tailed Paradise Whydahs can be challenging when they are not in breeding plumage. Generally, the birds resemble ordinary sparrows with short tails. Females typically have grey bills and greyish-brown feathers with blackish streaks, and their under tail feathers are more white. Males, outside of the breeding season, have browner plumage with black stripes on the crown, black facial markings, and a deeper brown chest with a creamier abdomen. During breeding, males undergo a dramatic transformation, developing black heads and backs, rusty colored breasts, bright yellow napes, and white abdomens. Their most striking feature is the elongated black tail feathers, which can grow up to 36 centimeters or more.

These birds inhabit grasslands, savannas, and open woodlands, preferring bushed grassland areas around cultivation. They tend to avoid proximity to surface waters.

The Long-tailed Paradise Whydah is found across Sub-Saharan Africa, where it is a resident species.

Long-tailed Paradise Whydahs are social birds, often roosting in flocks during both breeding and non-breeding seasons. They are brood parasites, laying their eggs in the nests of other songbirds without destroying the original eggs. Males have the ability to mimic the songs of their host species, which plays a role in mating.

6-4-2018 THORNYBUSH GAME LODGE, SOUTH AFRICA - GREY GO AWAY BIRD (Corythaixoides concolor)

The Grey go-away-bird (Crinifer concolor) is a bold and common turaco of the southern Afrotropics. They regularly form groups that forage in tree tops, or dust bathe on the ground. Within their range, their unique combination of color, appearance, and habits precludes confusion with other bird species.

These birds have an almost uniform smoky-grey plumage with long tails and 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.

Grey go-away-birds are native to southern Angola, southern DRC, Zambia, southern Tanzania, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Eswatini. They inhabit 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 forests, and in Acacia woodland on alluvium. They also frequent farms, suburban gardens, and parks. They require water and disperse along tributaries of desert rivers when water flows. They have no regular migrations but wander about irregularly in search of food and water.

Grey go-away-birds are social and can form groups and parties numbering even 20-30 individuals. They spend the days moving about in search of food near the treetops. Their flight is rather slow and labored, but they can cover long distances. Once in the open treetops, however, these birds can run along tree limbs and jump from branch to branch. Especially when disturbed, they make their presence known by their characteristically loud and nasal 'kweh' or 'go-way' calls.

4-4-2018 PHINDA FOREST LODGE, SOUTH AFRICA - FORK TAILED DRONGO (Dicrurus adsimilis)

The fork-tailed drongo, also known as the common drongo or African drongo, is a member of the Dicruridae family. It is a small bird with a distinctive fork-shaped tail, red-brownish eyes, and an entirely black plumage that exhibits a blue-green iridescence in certain lights. Both sexes are similar in appearance, with the underside of the bird being uniformly black, contrasting with the glossy black-blue upper body.

When identifying the fork-tailed drongo, look for its robust black beak, red eyes, and the deeply forked black tail. Juveniles can be distinguished by their dark brown tone, less pronounced tail fork, and lack of glossy shine on the lower body. During flight, the darker remiges of the D. a. adsimilis subspecies are particularly noticeable.

The fork-tailed drongo inhabits wooded habitats, including woodlands and savannas, and is tolerant of arid climates. It can be found at elevations up to 2200 meters.

This species is widespread across Africa south of the Sahara, with four recognized subspecies varying in range and physical characteristics. It was once thought to range into Asia, but the Asian species is now classified as the black drongo (D. macrocercus).

4-4-2018 PHINDA FOREST LODGE, SOUTH AFRICA - AFRICAN WILD DOG (Lycaon pictus)

The African wild dog (Lycaon pictus) is the largest wild canine in Africa, and the only extant member of the genus Lycaon; it is distinguished from Canis by dentition highly specialized for a hypercarnivorous diet, and by a lack of dewclaws. Although not as prominent in African folklore or culture as other African carnivores, the African wild dog has been respected in several hunter-gatherer societies, particularly those of the predynastic Egyptians and the San people.

The fur of African wild dogs consists entirely of stiff bristle hairs with no underfur. They gradually lose their fur as they age, and older specimens become almost naked. Fur color varies geographically, with northeastern African specimens tending to be predominantly black with small white and yellow patches, while southern African ones are more brightly colored, sporting a mix of brown, black, and white coats. Their muzzle is usually black, gradually shading into brown on the cheeks and forehead. A black line extends up the forehead, turning blackish-brown on the back of the ears. A few specimens sport a brown teardrop-shaped mark below the eyes. The back of the head and neck are either brown or yellow. A white patch occasionally occurs behind the forelegs, with some specimens having completely white forelegs, chests, and throats. The tail is usually white at the tip, black in the middle, and brown at the base. Some specimens lack the white tip entirely or may have black fur below the white tip. These coat patterns can be asymmetrical, with the left side of the body often having different markings from that of the right.

African wild dogs are native to sub-Saharan Africa. The majority of the species' population occurs in Southern Africa and southern East Africa. More specifically in countries such as Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Niger, Central African Republic, Chad, Malawi, Mozambique, Senegal, South Africa, South Sudan, Sudan, Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia. African wild dogs are mostly found in savanna, and arid zones, open plains, shrubland, and semi-desert, generally avoiding forested areas. This preference is likely linked to their hunting habits, which require open areas that do not obstruct vision or impede pursuit. Nevertheless, they will travel through the scrub, woodland, and montane areas in pursuit of prey. Forest-dwelling populations of African wild dogs occur in the Harenna Forest, a wet montane forest in the Bale Mountains of Ethiopia. At least one record exists of a pack being sighted on the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.

African wild dogs are very social animals, living in packs with separate dominance hierarchies for males and females. Packs consist of 2 to 27 adults and yearling pups. Uniquely among social carnivores, the females rather than the males disperse from the natal pack once sexually mature. Males rarely disperse, and when they do, they are invariably rejected by other packs already containing males. African wild dogs are specialized diurnal pack hunters, which catch their prey by chasing them to exhaustion in a pursuit clocking at up to 66 km/h (41 mph) for 10 to 60 minutes. They have a higher success rate when it comes to killing prey even though they are smaller than lions and leopards.

Their hunting strategies differ according to prey, with wildebeest being rushed at to panic the herd and isolate a vulnerable individual, whereas territorial antelopes, which defend themselves by running in wide circles, are captured by cutting off their escape routes. Medium-sized prey is often killed in 2-5 minutes, whereas larger prey such as wildebeest may take half an hour to pull down. Unlike most social predators, African wild dogs will regurgitate food for adult as well as young family members. They are not aggressive creatures and don't fight over food. Pups old enough to eat solid food are given first priority at kills, eating even before the dominant pair; subordinate adult dogs help feed and protect the pups.

African wild dogs are monogamous. Every pack has a dominant breeding pair that mates for life. Populations in East Africa have no fixed breeding season, whereas those in Southern Africa usually breed during the April-July period. During this period, the female is closely accompanied by a single male, which keeps other members of the same sex at bay. African wild dogs produce more pups than any other canid, with litters containing around 6 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. The gestation period lasts 69-73 days. 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 3 to 4 weeks of age. The pups leave the den around the age of 3 weeks and are suckled outside. At the age of 5 weeks, the pups are weaned and are fed regurgitated meat by the other pack members. By 7 weeks, they begin to take on an adult appearance, with noticeable lengthening in the legs, muzzle, and ears. Once the pups reach the age of 8 to 10 weeks, the pack abandons the den and the young follow the adults during hunts. Both males and females become reproductively mature when they are 12-18 months old.