25-12-2019 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - HOUSE SPARROW (FEMALE) (Passer domesticus)

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

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

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

Native to Europe, the Mediterranean Basin, and much of Asia, the house sparrow has been introduced to various regions worldwide, including parts of Australasia, Africa, and the Americas, making it one of the most widely distributed wild birds.

House sparrows are social birds, often seen in flocks. They exhibit a range of behaviors, including dust or water bathing and communal roosting. Males are known to be territorial around their nesting sites.

The house sparrow's vocalizations are predominantly variations of a simple chirping call. Males may sing or give an "ecstatic call" during the breeding season, and the species uses a variety of calls for different social interactions.

House sparrows are generally monogamous and may mate for life. They can breed in the season following their hatching and often produce multiple clutches per year, with each clutch containing up to five eggs. Nest sites are varied, with a preference for cavities.

The house sparrow can be confused with other seed-eating birds, such as the Eurasian tree sparrow, which has a chestnut crown and a black cheek patch.

An opportunistic feeder, the house sparrow's diet consists mainly of seeds from grains and weeds, but it also consumes insects and other invertebrates, especially during the breeding season when feeding young.

Despite its widespread distribution and abundance, the house sparrow has experienced declines in some areas. However, it is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

25-12-2019 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - LONGHORN BEETLE (Oxypleurus nodieri)

Oxypleurus nodieri is a rare Mediterranean longhorn beetle associated with a variety of pines [✮][✳]. The larvae feed in recently dead branches and pupate in shallow pupal cells built in sapwood. The adults are nocturnal and can be found early in the spring. The species has been described from France by Étienne Mulsant in 1839 [❖]. Morphology of genus Oxypleurus has been well described by Petr Švácha and John F. Lawrence in 2014 [✧].

25-12-2019 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - GEOMETER MOTH (Chemerina caliginearia)

A lepidopteran of the family Geometridae and subfamily Ennominae ,  present in Spain. It measures between 27 and 37 mm in wingspan. Within Europe, it has a mainly Mediterranean distribution.

It is quite variable in terms of the nuances of its forewings depending on the specimen.

The upperside of the forewings is grayish with some pale spots. A prominent band, which may be more or less distinct, is very pale yellow or yellowish-brown and runs diagonally across each forewing from the middle of the inner margin to the apex. Occasionally, another parallel line appears further distally. This same color is present in the venation distal to this band, in the marginal area (very subtle). There are usually two small dark spots in the forewing cell.

The upperside of the hindwings is light gray. The underside is pale.

Usually  seen it in winter (January-March).

Helianthemum, Dorycnium, Cistus, Thymus and Genista have been described as host plants .

24-12-2019 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - BLACK REDSTART (FEMALE) (Phoenicurus ochruros)

The Black Redstart (\(Phoenicurus\) \(ochruros\)) is a small bird, about the size of a robin, known for its dark plumage and bright red tail. It is adaptable and can be found in both natural rocky habitats and urban environments like cities and quarries. Its diet consists mainly of insects, spiders, and worms, supplemented by seeds and berries, and some populations migrate in winter. 

Appearance Size: Approximately \(14.5\) cm in length, with a wingspan of \(23-26\) cm.Males: Dark grey body with a black face and throat, and a white patch on the wings.Females and Juveniles: Grey-brown all over.Tail: Both sexes have a bright red tail with a single black band down the middle. 

Habitat and Behavior Habitat: Found in warm, sunny rocky areas, quarries, cliffs, and urban settings like cities and villages.Behavior: They are often seen hopping on the ground and frequently sing from high perches on buildings or rocks.

Diet: Primarily insectivores, they eat insects, larvae, spiders, and worms. In the late summer and autumn, they also eat seeds and berries.

Hunting: They can catch insects in the air, but also hunt by hopping on the ground, rocky outcrops, and rooftops. 

The Black Redstart has adapted remarkably to urban environments, often found nesting in crevices or holes within buildings. Originally a dweller of stony mountainous regions, it now thrives in industrial areas with similar structural features.

24-12-2019 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - HOUSE SPARROW (MALE) (Passer domesticus)

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

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

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

Native to Europe, the Mediterranean Basin, and much of Asia, the house sparrow has been introduced to various regions worldwide, including parts of Australasia, Africa, and the Americas, making it one of the most widely distributed wild birds.

18-12-2019 CREU DE LONGA, VALENCIA - SHORT EARED OWL (Asio flammeus)

The Short-eared Owl, Asio flammeus, is a medium-sized owl notable for its mottled tawny to brown plumage, barred tail and wings, and a striking facial appearance accentuated by yellow-orange eyes encircled by black, giving the impression of a mask. This species exhibits a floppy flight pattern due to irregular wingbeats, often described as moth or bat-like.

When observing the Short-eared Owl, look for its large eyes, big head, short neck, and broad wings. The bill is short, strong, hooked, and black. Females are slightly larger than males, and the species can be identified in flight by its broad white band along the rear edge of the wing and pale primary-patches. The upper breast is streaked significantly, and the bird's very short ear tufts are usually not visible unless in a defensive pose.

This owl favors open country and grasslands, often roosting under short, shady trees in grassland or desert habitats.

The Short-eared Owl has a vast range, found on all continents except Antarctica and Australia. It breeds in regions including North America, Europe, North Africa, and northern Asia, and is partially migratory, moving southward in winter from the northern parts of its range.

The Short-eared Owl is known to be diurnal and crepuscular, as well as nocturnal, with hunting often occurring just feet above the ground. It is monogamous and nests on the ground, with the male performing a conspicuous courtship display in flight. The species is known to lure predators away from its nest with a feigned injury display.

The calls of the Short-eared Owl include a scratchy bark-like sound, raspy waowk, or a series of toot-toot-toot notes. On breeding grounds, a loud eeee-yerp can be heard, but the species is generally silent on wintering grounds.

Breeding season peaks in April, with nests concealed by low vegetation. Clutch size varies, with up to a dozen eggs laid in years of abundant prey. Incubation is primarily by the female, lasting 21–37 days, and offspring fledge at just over four weeks.

The Short-eared Owl can be confused with the Long-eared Owl, but differences include ear-tuft visibility, iris color (yellow in Short-eared, orange in Long-eared), and patterns around the eyes. The Short-eared Owl is generally paler and has different wing markings and tail bands.

The diet mainly consists of rodents, particularly voles, but also includes other small mammals and occasionally birds and insects. The Short-eared Owl hunts by flying low over open fields before swooping down on prey.

The IUCN lists the Short-eared Owl as a species of least concern, with an estimated global population of 1,200,000 to 2,100,000. However, it is noted to be declining in the southern portion of its United States range and is listed as endangered in New Mexico.

18-12-2019 CREU DE LONGA, VALENCIA - COMMON CHIFFCHAFF (Phylloscopus collybita)

The Common Chiffchaff, Phylloscopus collybita, is a diminutive and sprightly leaf warbler known for its distinctive, onomatopoeic song. This small, migratory passerine is characterized by its greenish-brown upperparts and off-white underparts, with a weight ranging from 6 to 8 grams and a length of 10-12 centimeters.

In the field, look for the Common Chiffchaff's short whitish supercilium, fine dark bill, and dark legs. Its primary projection is short, and the plumage may appear duller and browner as it wears. Juveniles are browner above with yellow-white underparts, but they soon acquire brighter plumage after their first moult.

The Common Chiffchaff breeds in open woodlands with a mix of taller trees and ground cover across northern and temperate Europe, Asia, and parts of north Africa. It prefers woodland with trees at least 5 meters high and an undergrowth of grasses and nettles.

This species has a vast breeding range, extending from Europe to eastern Siberia and northward to about 70 N. It winters in southern and western Europe, southern Asia, and north Africa. The Common Chiffchaff is one of the earliest spring migrants to return to its breeding grounds and one of the last to depart in autumn.

The male Common Chiffchaff is fiercely territorial during the breeding season, defending its core territory against rivals. It exhibits a fearless nature, even attacking predators that threaten its nest. Outside the breeding season, these birds may form small flocks with other warblers.

The song is a cheerful "chiff-chaff," which heralds the arrival of spring. Calls include a "hweet" sound, less disyllabic than the calls of closely related warblers. The song is a key distinguishing feature from similar species, such as the Iberian Chiffchaff.

The female constructs a domed nest on or near the ground, lined with feathers. Clutches typically consist of 2-7 cream-colored eggs, which hatch after 13-14 days. The female assumes most of the responsibility for brooding and feeding the chicks, with the male playing a minimal role. 

18-12-2019 CREU DE LONGA, VALENCIA - GREAT EGRET (Ardea alba)

The great egret, known scientifically as Ardea alba, is a majestic bird with a stately bearing and an impressive wingspan. This large egret is adorned with all-white plumage and can stand up to a meter tall. It is a cosmopolitan species, found across temperate and tropical regions worldwide.

To identify the great egret, look for its yellow bill and contrasting black legs and feet, which may vary slightly during the breeding season. During this time, the bill may darken, and the lower legs may lighten. The great egret also sports ornamental feathers on its back when in breeding plumage. Both sexes appear identical, and juveniles resemble nonbreeding adults. The great egret can be distinguished from the intermediate egret by the gape of its bill, which extends well beyond the back of the eye.

The great egret favors habitats close to water, such as large lakes with reed beds and other extensive wetlands. It nests in colonies, often at heights of 10 to 40 feet within trees.

This bird has a vast range, occurring worldwide in suitable habitats. It is particularly common across the Sun Belt of the United States and throughout the Neotropics.

The great egret is known for its slow, graceful flight with its neck retracted, a characteristic of herons and bitterns. It walks with its neck extended and wings held close. Generally silent, it may emit a low, hoarse croak when disturbed and a louder croaking at breeding colonies.

The great egret's vocalizations include a low croak when disturbed and various croaking and squawking sounds during the breeding season.

Breeding begins at 2-3 years of age with monogamous pairings. The male initiates nest building to attract a female. The nest is a sizable structure of sticks, lined with plant material. The species lays up to six bluish-green eggs, with both parents sharing incubation duties over 23-26 days. The young are fed by regurgitation and can fly within 6-7 weeks.

The great egret can be confused with the snowy egret, which is smaller with a black bill and yellow feet. In North America, it may also be mistaken for the white morph of the great blue heron, which is larger with a thicker bill.

The great egret's diet consists of fish, frogs, small mammals, reptiles, crustaceans, and insects. It typically forages in shallow water, standing still or slowly stalking its prey before impaling it with its sharp bill.

The great egret is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN. It has recovered from historical threats such as plume hunting and has adapted well to human presence. It is partially migratory, with some populations moving south during colder winters. The species is a symbol of conservation success and represents the National Audubon Society.

18-12-2019 CREU DE LONGA, VALENCIA - NORTHERN LAPWING (Vanellus vanellus)

The Northern Lapwing, known scientifically as Vanellus vanellus, is a distinctive bird with a notable crest on its head. It measures 28–33 cm in length, with a wingspan of 67–87 cm and a body mass ranging from 128–330 g. The species exhibits sexual dimorphism; males have a pronounced crest and a stark black crown, throat, and breast, which contrasts sharply with their white face. Females and juveniles have shorter crests and less defined head markings, but their overall plumage is similar to that of the males, with a black and white coloration and a greenish tint on the back.

When identifying the Northern Lapwing, look for its rounded wings, short legs, and the characteristic crest that adorns its head. The male's long crest and contrasting black and white facial patterns are particularly striking during the breeding season. In flight, the species can be recognized by its slow wingbeats and the rounded shape of its wings.

The Northern Lapwing is a ground-nesting bird that favors open landscapes such as cultivated fields, grasslands, and wetlands. It is adaptable and can be found in a variety of temperate environments across Eurosiberia.

This bird is a widespread resident throughout temperate regions of Eurosiberia. It is highly migratory, wintering in regions as far south as North Africa and parts of Asia. Western European populations are more sedentary, while vagrants have been known to appear in North America following storms.

The Northern Lapwing is known for its acrobatic display flights, accompanied by a cacophony of calls during the breeding season. It migrates predominantly during the day, often in large flocks. The species is fiercely protective of its nest and young, boldly confronting any potential threats. In winter, it gathers in massive flocks on open land, and it is known to feed nocturnally when the moon is bright.

The Northern Lapwing is quite vocal, especially in the breeding season. Its contact call is a loud "pee-wit," which is also the origin of one of its common names. Males perform a display flight while emitting a wheezy "pee-wit, wit wit, eeze wit," and they may also produce squeaking or mewing sounds.

Breeding takes place on the ground in a simple scrape. The species typically lays 3–4 eggs, which are zealously defended against all intruders. The Northern Lapwing's breeding strategy includes feigning injury to distract predators from its nest.

Its diet consists primarily of insects and other small invertebrates. The Northern Lapwing often feeds in mixed flocks with Golden Plovers and Black-headed Gulls, the latter of which may steal food but also offer some protection against predators.

18-12-2019 ULLAL DE BOLDOVI, VALENCIA - EUROPEAN ROBIN (Erithacus rubecula)

European robins occur in Eurasia east to Western Siberia, south to Algeria, and on the Atlantic islands as far west as the Central Group of the Azores and Madeira. Irish and British robins are largely resident but a small minority, usually female, migrate to southern Europe during winter, a few as far as Spain. Scandinavian and Russian robins migrate to Britain and western Europe to escape the harsher winters. European robins prefer spruce woods in northern Europe, contrasting with their preference for parks and gardens in Ireland and Great Britain. These may also be found in grasslands, shrubby vegetation, hedgerows with some tall trees, orchards, and farmlands.

European robins are active during the day, however, they may also hunt insects on moonlit nights or near artificial light at night. These are generally solitary and territorial birds, and males are noted for their highly aggressive territorial behavior. They will fiercely attack other males and competitors that stray into their territories and may even attack other small birds without apparent provocation. 

European robins communicate using a variety of calls, including a ticking note that usually indicates anxiety or mild alarm. During the breeding season, robins produce a fluting, warbling song. Both the male and female sing during the winter, when they hold separate territories; the song then sounds more plaintive than the summer version. 

The female typically moves a short distance from the summer nesting territory to a nearby area that is more suitable for winter feeding. The male keeps the same territory throughout the year. During the breeding season, males usually initiate their morning song an hour before civil sunrise and usually terminate their daily singing around thirty minutes after sunset. They may also sing at night, especially in urban areas that are artificially lit during the night.

23-12-2019 GANDIA RIO SERPIS, VALENCIA - GREY HERON (Ardea cinerea)

The Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea) is a statuesque wading bird belonging to the family Ardeidae. It is a familiar sight in both rural and urban settings, often seen standing stoically along the water's edge. An adult Grey Heron is a large bird, reaching up to 100 cm in height, with a wingspan between 155 to 195 cm. It weighs between 1 to 2 kg. The plumage is predominantly ashy-grey above, with a greyish-white underbelly and some black on the flanks. A striking feature is the white head and neck adorned with a broad black stripe that extends from the eye to the black crest. The beak is pinkish-yellow, long, and sharply pointed, while the legs are a brown hue.

When identifying the Grey Heron, look for the white head with the black supercilium and crest, the long grey neck, and the ashy-grey wings and back. The underparts are lighter, and the legs are long and brown. Juveniles can be distinguished by their duller grey neck and smaller crest. The beak is a useful indicator of age, being brighter in breeding adults.

Grey Herons are highly adaptable and can be found in a variety of watery habitats including lakes, rivers, ponds, marshes, and coastal environments. They require shallow waters for foraging or areas with shelving margins where they can wade.

Native to temperate Europe and Asia, as well as parts of Africa, the Grey Heron has a broad range. Northern populations may migrate southwards in autumn, while others remain resident year-round. Vagrant sightings have occurred in the Caribbean, Bermuda, and parts of North America.

The Grey Heron exhibits a slow, deliberate flight with its neck retracted in an S-shape. It is known for its solitary foraging habits, often standing motionless or stalking prey through shallow waters. It is also a communal rooster, often found in trees or cliffs at night.

The primary call of the Grey Heron is a loud croaking "fraaank." At breeding colonies, a variety of guttural and raucous noises can be heard, including greeting calls between mates and alarm calls when predators are nearby.

Breeding takes place in colonies, or heronries, typically in high trees near water. Nests are reused and added to each year. The breeding season sees a clutch of three to five bluish-green eggs laid, which both parents incubate. Chicks fledge at 7-8 weeks old.

The Grey Heron can be confused with the larger North American Great Blue Heron or the South American Cocoi Heron. However, it can be distinguished by its size and the coloration of its flanks and thighs.

Grey Herons are apex predators within their ecosystem, feeding on a variety of aquatic creatures such as fish, amphibians, crustaceans, and insects. They have also been known to consume small mammals and juvenile birds.

The Grey Heron is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating a stable and widespread population.

23-12-2019 GANDIA RIO SERPIS, VALENCIA - COMMON CHAFFINCH (FEMALE) (Fringilla coelebs)

The Eurasian chaffinch, or simply the chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs), presents a striking dichotomy in plumage between the sexes. The male is resplendent with a blue-grey cap and rust-red underparts, while the female's attire is more subdued, though both genders boast two white wing bars and white sides to their tails. The male's robust voice is a herald of spring, as he sings from exposed perches to court a mate.

To identify the male chaffinch, look for the black forehead, blue-grey crown, and rust-red breast, which fades to a pale creamy-pink on the belly. The wings feature a white panel on the coverts and a buff-white bar on the secondaries and inner primaries. Females and juveniles are more muted with grey-brown shades above and paler below, but retain the distinctive wing markings.

Chaffinches favor wooded environments, thriving in areas where the July isotherm ranges from 12 to 30°C. They are adaptable, however, and can be found in a variety of forested landscapes across their range.

This small passerine bird is widespread across Europe and parts of Asia, extending to Siberia. It is also an introduced species in some regions, such as New Zealand and South Africa.

18-12-2019 CREU DE LONGA, VALENCIA - WATER PIPIT (Anthus spinoletta)`

The Water Pipit (Anthus spinoletta) is a small, sprightly passerine bird, a denizen of the mountains of Southern Europe and the Palearctic, extending its range eastwards to the vastness of China. This bird is a short-distance migrant, often descending to lower altitudes or seeking the openness of wet lowlands when winter's grip takes hold.

In its breeding attire, the Water Pipit dons greyish-brown upperparts, modestly streaked with a darker hue, and a pale pink-buff on the underparts, which gently fades to a whitish tone on the lower belly. The head is adorned with a grey crown and a striking broad white supercilium, while the outer tail feathers flash white. Come winter, the plumage is more subdued; the head becomes grey-brown, the supercilium less pronounced, and the upperparts bear more pronounced streaking. The underparts transition to white, with light brown streaks gracing the breast and flanks. The three subspecies show only minor variations, and both sexes present a near-identical appearance, with the young resembling the adults.

The Water Pipit is a bird of the high mountains during the breeding season, favoring alpine meadows and pastures with short grass, often near wet areas or slopes.

This species breeds in the mountainous regions of southern Europe and across Asia to central China, with some populations residing on the Mediterranean islands of Sardinia and Corsica. In winter, many birds migrate to coastal wetlands, marshes, and rice fields.

The Water Pipit is a bird that values its privacy, often proving more elusive and wary than its relatives. When disturbed, it takes to the wing, flying a considerable distance before alighting once more.

The Water Pipit's song is a series of four or five blocks, each composed of about six repetitions of a distinct short note, performed from a perch or during flight. Its call is a sharp "dzip," and its flight call a short, thin "fist," sitting between the calls of the Meadow and Rock Pipits.

Nests are artfully constructed cups of grass and leaves, concealed under vegetation or within cliff crevices. Clutches typically consist of four to six speckled greyish-white eggs, which incubate for about two weeks, with fledging occurring after another 14-15 days.

The Water Pipit's diet is primarily composed of small invertebrates, which it picks off the ground or vegetation. It occasionally catches insects mid-flight and may also consume some plant material, particularly in areas where insects are less abundant.

The Water Pipit is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, with a large and stable population spread across a vast range. Estimates suggest a European breeding population that could reach up to two million pairs, indicating a global population of tens of millions.

21-12-2019 CANAL LES FONTS OLIVA, VALENCIA - LITTLE EGRET (Egretta garzetta)

The little egret is a small, all-white heron with black legs, a black bill, and bright yellow feet. It is a highly social bird found in wetland habitats across Africa, Asia, Europe, and Australia, and its diet mainly consists of fish, crustaceans, and other small aquatic animals. During breeding season, they grow long, decorative plumes on their head and back. 

Physical characteristics and identification

Size: They are approximately 60 cm long with a wingspan of about 92 cm.

Plumage: Their most distinguishing feature is their pure white plumage, which is complemented by bright yellow feet, a black bill, and yellow facial skin.

Breeding plumes: During the breeding season, they develop long, elegant plumes on their crest, back, and chest.

Vocalization: They are vocal birds, making a harsh, croaking sound, especially during the breeding season. 

Diet and hunting

Main diet: The little egret's diet is primarily fish, but they also eat crustaceans, amphibians, insects, and spiders.

Hunting technique: They are graceful hunters that stalk prey in shallow water, sometimes using their feet to stir up sediment and scare fish out into the open before striking.

Opportunistic feeding: They will also scavenge and may take advantage of other animals or humans to find food. 

Behavior and habitat

Habitat: They are found in a wide variety of wetland habitats, from coastal areas and estuaries to inland lakes and rivers, and even urban streams.

Social behavior: Little egrets are social and often fly in flocks, although they can be territorial when feeding. They typically nest in large, social colonies, sometimes with other waterbird species.

Nesting: They build twig-platform nests in trees, bushes, or reedbeds and both parents share incubation and feeding duties. 

History and range

Historical persecution: The little egret was hunted to near extinction in the 19th century for its beautiful plumes, which were used in fashion and were once considered more valuable than gold.

Range expansion: Populations have recovered, and a range expansion into Europe led to them becoming a common breeding species in the UK starting in the late 1990s. They are now found across much of southern England and Wales, and their range continues to expand.

Global distribution: The species is widespread, with breeding populations in Europe, Asia, and Africa, and is a common visitor in parts of Australia. 

Little egrets – like many water birds – are opportunists. Eating anything that fits in their bill, little egrets feast on fish, insects, amphibians and even small mammals and other birds, like ducklings. They catch their prey on land and in shallow water, often running or shuffling their feet to disturb fish.

21-12-2019 OLIVA, VALENCIA - BLACK REDSTART (FEMALE) (Phoenicurus ochruros)

The Black Redstart (Phoenicurus ochruros) is a small, charismatic passerine bird, exhibiting a blend of dark and vibrant plumage. Males are distinguished by their dark grey to black upperparts and breast, with a striking orange-red rump and tail. Females and juveniles are more subdued in color, with grey to grey-brown feathers and the same vivid tail coloration that is the hallmark of the species.

Adult males are easily identified by their dark upperparts and black breast, contrasting with the orange-red lower rump and tail. The belly and undertail may vary from blackish-grey to orange-red, depending on the subspecies. Females and juveniles are less conspicuous, with overall greyer tones and a distinctive orange-red rump and tail. The presence of pale fringes on the secondaries forms a whitish wing panel in some subspecies.

The Black Redstart has adapted remarkably to urban environments, often found nesting in crevices or holes within buildings. Originally a dweller of stony mountainous regions, it now thrives in industrial areas with similar structural features.

21-12-2019 OLIVA, VALENCIA - EUROPEAN ROBIN (Erithacus rubecula)

The European robin (Erithacus rubecula), known simply as the robin or robin redbreast in Great Britain and Ireland, is a small insectivorous passerine bird, a member of the chat subfamily of the Old World flycatcher family. It is a plucky little bird, with a length of about 12.5–14.0 cm and a weight of 16–22 g. Both sexes are similarly adorned with an orange breast and face, lined with grey, brown upper-parts, and a whitish belly.

Adult robins can be identified by their orange breast and face, bordered by a bluish-grey on the sides of the neck and chest. The upperparts are brownish, or olive-tinged in British birds, and the belly is whitish. The bill and eyes are black. Juvenile robins are distinguishable by their spotted brown and white plumage, with patches of orange gradually appearing as they mature.

The European robin is a bird of diverse habitats, found in woodlands, gardens, and parks across its range. It is particularly associated with areas where the soil is dug or disturbed, allowing it easy access to its invertebrate prey.

This bird has a wide distribution across Europe, extending east to Western Siberia and south to North Africa. It is sedentary in most of its range except the far north, where it is migratory. 

21-12-2019 OLIVA, VALENCIA - COMMON CHIFFCHAFF (Phylloscopus collybita)

The common chiffchaff (Phylloscopus collybita), or simply the chiffchaff, is a common and widespread leaf warbler which breeds in open woodlands throughout northern and temperate Europe and the Palearctic.

It is a migratory passerine which winters in southern and western Europe, southern Asia and north Africa. Greenish-brown above and off-white below, it is named onomatopoeically for its simple chiff-chaff song. It has a number of subspecies, some of which are now treated as full species. The female builds a domed nest on or near the ground, and assumes most of the responsibility for brooding and feeding the chicks, whilst the male has little involvement in nesting, but defends his territory against rivals, and attacks potential predators.

A small insectivorous bird, it is subject to predation by mammals, such as cats and mustelids, and birds, particularly hawks of the genus Accipiter. Its large range and population mean that its status is secure, although one subspecies is probably extinct. The common chiffchaff breeds across Europe and Asia east to eastern Siberia and north to about 70°N, with isolated populations in northwest Africa, northern and western Turkey and northwestern Iran. It is migratory, but it is one of the first passerine birds to return to its breeding areas in the spring and among the last to leave in late autumn. When breeding, it is a bird of open woodlands with some taller trees and ground cover for nesting purposes. These trees are typically at least 5 metres (16 feet) high, with undergrowth that is an open, poor to medium mix of grasses, bracken, nettles or similar plants. 

Its breeding habitat is quite specific, and even near relatives do not share it; for example, the willow warbler (P. trochilus) prefers younger trees, while the wood warbler (P. sibilatrix) prefers less undergrowth. In winter, the common chiffchaff uses a wider range of habitats including scrub, and is not so dependent on trees. It is often found near water, unlike the willow warbler which tolerates drier habitats. There is an increasing tendency to winter in western Europe well north of the traditional areas, especially in coastal southern England and the mild urban microclimate of London. These overwintering common chiffchaffs include some visitors of the eastern subspecies abietinus and tristis, so they are certainly not all birds which have bred locally, although some undoubtedly are.

21-12-2019 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - WAVE MOTH (Idaea minuscularia)

White moth Idaea minuscularia

One of the many species of moths (also called moths ) that can enter the house attracted by the interior lights and remain on the wall still for many hours. Belonging to the Geometridae Family . Very large group of nocturnal moths (about 35,000 species). With a wide variety of sizes, they include wingspans ranging from 12 to 120 mm. The morphology and posture they adopt are characteristic of the family:

The forewings of these moths are wide and triangular in shape with hindwings almost as wide.

During the day, they keep their wings extended and flat against the surface on which they rest.

The coloration along with a mottled pattern and posture allows them to go unnoticed in a natural environment.

The caterpillars of this family have a very particular way of moving. Because they have a space between their front legs and those located at the end of the abdomen, they move by bringing the rear end to the front legs and then extending the body forward. 

Moths of this family are characterized by slender bodies and large , broad forewings, which are often crossed by thin, wavy lines.

Idaea is a genus that encompasses approximately 700 known species, between the Mediterranean, Africa and

western Asia.

12 to 18 mm wing span. White background color. Transverse lines and points of the cell generally thin or practically non-existent. Posterior edge dotted and parallel to it, series of dots on the inside of the wing. Dark spots appear between the two that are often inconspicuous.

The caterpillar is polyphagous . They feed on a multitude of low-growing herbs in all types of habitats, being adapted to parks, gardens and urban lots .

Adults come to the streetlights at night , staying on the walls for a long time, even during the day. Occasionally they access homes.

In temperate zones they can be found in all months of the year.

Western Mediterranean. North Africa (Morocco, western Algeria) and Iberian Peninsula. It is also known from the Balearic Islands.

It is often found near the coast in bushes, buildings and walls. It lives in arid biotopes with little vegetation cover. Parks, gardens and urban lots .

21-12-2019 MONTE CORONA, 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.

Physical characteristics Size: Adults grow to about \(15-20\) cm long, with the tail making up two-thirds of the total length.Body shape: They are slender with a long tail, a narrow head, and long, thin toes.Color: Dorsal colors are typically grey-brown with varied patterns. Females tend to have more prominent longitudinal stripes, while males are often smaller. Some individuals also have ventral color variations, including yellow, orange/red, and white morphs. 

Habitat and behavior Habitat: The species is adaptable and can be found in various environments, including rocky areas, shrubby vegetation, and even human settlements.Distribution: Its range extends from the Rhône Valley in France to the Sierra Nevada in Spain.

Activity: They are diurnal and active, often seen basking, foraging, and hiding in vegetation.Diet: They feed on small invertebrates and sometimes fruit.Reproduction: As an oviparous (egg-laying) species, females lay an average of 2.80 eggs per clutch in continental populations. 

21-12-2019 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - COPPER CHAFER (Protaetia cuprea)

Protaetia cuprea, also known as the copper chafer, is a species of chafer in the family Scarabaeidae. This species is also known as the rose chafer and has a wide geographic distribution, extending from Canary Islands, Portugal, and Spain to the west towards Vladivostok in the Russian Far East, Mongolia, and North China. This species forages for pollen from flowers and fruits, such as apples, from trees. However, since fruit is scarce in the spring and winter, they only transition from a diet of pollen to a diet of fruits in the summer. Since pollen is richer in proteins and lipids than carbohydrates, while fruit is richer in carbohydrates, they are able to travel longer when on a fruit diet; this is due to their increased aerobic performance when fueled by high-carbohydrate content.

This beetle is well-known for its flight ability, a skill that supports its foraging behavior. It has swift maneuvering ability and strong precision when landing on flowers and plants; it is able to do this due to the elasticity and mechanisms this beetle's wings possess.

The beetle species P. cuprea has an extensive geographic distribution across various regions, showcasing its adaptability and diverse habitat preferences. P. cuprea is found all over Europe and Asia. From the Canary Islands, Portugal, and Spain, the beetle's range extends eastward to Vladivostok in the Russian Far East and further encompasses Mongolia and North China. Its presence in the Middle East is notable, with populations in Turkey, the Levant, northern Egypt, and Iran. Further, the species is also documented in South Asia, specifically in Pakistan and Nepal.

The diversity of subspecies within P. cuprea highlights its evolutionary complexity and geographical spread. The subspecies Protaetia cuprea obscura is notably absent in Germany but is found across Central and Eastern Europe, including the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Austria (lowlands), Hungary, Italy (near Venezia), Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece. This subspecies is known to hybridize with P. cuprea metallica in Slovakia and Romania, indicating a rich interspecies interaction. The distribution of P. cuprea bourgini, as well as closely related P. cuprea brancoi, in Spain, separated by the natural barrier of the Pyrenees Mountains, showcases the influence of geographic features on species distribution.

The ecological adaptability of Protaetia cuprea is as remarkable as its geographical spread. This species thrives across various environments, from dense forests to the more open and arid steppe regions, indicating its broad ecological tolerance. Such adaptability extends to a wide altitude range, with P. cuprea populations established from sea-level shorelines to the more challenging conditions at elevations up to 2000 meters. This altitude range encompasses various environmental conditions, highlighting the species' capacity to adapt and thrive in varying climatic and geographical landscapes.

Research indicates that P. cuprea primarily feeds on decaying organic matter, such as fruits, flowers, and plant debris. Studies investigating the feeding habits of larvae revealed that they predominantly consume rotting wood and plant material. Additionally, adult beetles are known to feed on ripe fruits and sap exudates from damaged trees.

Furthermore, P. cuprea has been observed to exhibit opportunistic feeding behavior, consuming a wide range of organic materials depending on its availability in their habitat. This adaptability in food preference suggests a generalist feeding strategy, which may contribute to its ecological success in diverse habitats.

Parental care primarily concerns the provisioning and protection of offspring during the larval stage. Female P. cuprea lay their eggs in decaying organic substances, such as compost, dung, or decaying wood which is an ideal environment that influences survival and development of larvae. Upon hatching, female beetles demonstrate maternal care by actively tending to the larvae, ensuring they have access to suitable food resources and protection from predators, parasites, and environmental stressors.

The life cycle of Protaetia cuprea is typically one year. However, under certain conditions, this beetle can develop more rapidly, growing into adults within the same year the eggs were laid by the parental generation.