10-7-2017 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - RED CROSSBILL (MALE) (Loxia curvirostra)

The Red Crossbill, known as Loxia curvirostra, is a small passerine bird belonging to the finch family Fringillidae. This species exhibits a unique adaptation: its mandibles, which cross at the tips, are specialized for extracting seeds from conifer cones and other fruits. Adult males typically display vibrant red or orange plumage, while females are adorned in shades of green or yellow. However, there is considerable variation in both beak size and shape, as well as call types, across its range.

The Red Crossbill is readily identified by its distinctive crossed mandibles, a feature that sets it apart from most other bird species. However, it shares this characteristic with the similar Two-barred Crossbill. The Red Crossbill can be distinguished by its uniformly brownish-black wings, lacking the bright white wing bars present in the Two-barred Crossbill. While there are other closely related crossbills within its range, such as the Parrot, Scottish, and Cassia Crossbills, these are best identified by their calls, as visual differences are minimal.

Red Crossbills inhabit a variety of coniferous forests across North America and Eurasia, where they are closely associated with the availability of conifer seeds.

The Red Crossbill is a widespread species, breeding and residing in coniferous forests across North America and Eurasia. Its presence can be irregular, as it may appear in certain areas only in years when the cone crop is abundant.

This species is known for its nomadic and irruptive behavior, with movements closely tied to the availability of conifer seeds. Red Crossbills typically breed in late summer when conifer seeds mature but may breed at any time of year if a suitable cone crop is found. They are known to disperse widely in search of food, and their occurrence can be quite unpredictable. Some populations, such as the Newfoundland Crossbill, are resident and do not exhibit significant movements.

The Red Crossbill is primarily identified by its call, a single note "chip" that varies between the different types. These calls are frequently given and are key to distinguishing between the various populations.

Breeding occurs in coniferous forests, with timing closely linked to the maturation of conifer seeds. Red Crossbills may nest at any time of year if they find an area with an adequate cone crop.

Similar species include the Two-barred Crossbill, Parrot Crossbill, Scottish Crossbill, and Cassia Crossbill. These species were once considered subspecies of the Red Crossbill but are now recognized as distinct, primarily based on call differences.

The diet of the Red Crossbill is specialized, consisting primarily of seeds from conifer cones. They use their unique bill shape to pry apart the scales of cones and access the seeds within.

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

18-10-2015 MALDON, ESSEX - EUROPEAN MOORHEN (JUVENILE) (Gallinula chloropus)

9-7-2017 VILLALONGA RESERVOIR, VALENCIA - WHITE WAGTAIL (Motacilla alba)

White wagtails breed throughout Eurasia, only being absent in the Arctic. They also breed in the mountains of Morocco and western Alaska. These birds are residents in the milder parts of their range such as western Europe and the Mediterranean, but migratory in much of the rest of their range. Northern European breeders winter around the Mediterranean and in tropical and subtropical Africa, and Asiatic birds move to the Middle East, India, and Southeast Asia. Birds from the North American population also winter in tropical Asia. White wagtails occupy a wide range of habitats but are absent from deserts. They inhabit grasslands, seashores, rocky shorelines, sand beaches, tidepools, rivers, lakeshores, farmland, gardens, and parks. They are also often found in towns and villages.

The White wagtail (Motacilla alba) is a small insectivorous bird of the open country, often near habitation and water. It prefers bare areas for feeding, where it can see and pursue its prey. In urban areas, it has adapted to foraging on paved areas such as car parks. It is the national bird of Latvia and has been featured on the stamps of several countries.

The White wagtail is a slender bird with the characteristic long, constantly wagging tail of its genus. There are a number of other subspecies, some of which may have arisen because of partial geographical isolation, such as the resident British and Irish form, the pied wagtail M. a. yarrellii, which now also breeds in adjacent areas of the neighbouring European mainland. The Pied wagtail exchanges the grey colour of the nominate form with black (or very dark grey in females), but is otherwise identical in its behaviour. Other subspecies, the validity of some of which is questionable, differ in the colour of the wings, back, and head, or other features. Some traces show sexual dimorphism during the breeding season. As many as six subspecies may be present in the wintering ground in India or Southeast Asia and here they can be difficult to distinguish.

9-7-2017 VILLALONGA RESERVOIR, VALENCIA - GREEN SANDPIPER (Tringa ochropus)

The Green Sandpiper, Tringa ochropus, is a small wader, or shorebird, with a somewhat plump appearance. It boasts a dark greenish-brown back and wings, complemented by a greyish head and breast. The underparts are predominantly white, with the back featuring white spots that vary in extent depending on the season and age of the bird. The legs and short bill are a matching dark green, creating a harmonious color palette for this avian species.

When observing the Green Sandpiper, look for its distinctive flight pattern, which reveals dark wings above and below, punctuated by a striking white rump. This feature is a reliable identifier, setting it apart from its close relative, the slightly smaller Solitary Sandpiper of North America. Additionally, the Green Sandpiper's white-spotted back is most pronounced in breeding adults and less so in winter and juvenile plumage.

The Green Sandpiper is a freshwater aficionado, often found in more confined spaces than other waders, which typically prefer open vistas. It thrives in a variety of freshwater habitats, avoiding the more gregarious nature of some wader congregations.

This bird breeds across subarctic Europe and extends its range east across the Palearctic. It is migratory, seeking winter respite in southern Europe, the Indian Subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and tropical Africa.

9-7-2017 REAL DE GANDIA, VALENCIA - HOUSE SPARROW (FEMALE) (Passer domesticus)

The house sparrow (Passer domesticus) is a bird of the sparrow family Passeridae, found in most parts of the world. It is a small bird that has a typical length of 16 cm (6.3 in) and a mass of 24–39.5 g (0.85–1.39 oz). Females and young birds are coloured pale brown and grey, and males have brighter black, white, and brown markings. One of about 25 species in the genus Passer, the house sparrow is native to most of Europe, the Mediterranean Basin, and a large part of Asia. Its intentional or accidental introductions to many regions, including parts of Australasia, Africa, and the Americas, make it the most widely distributed wild bird.

The house sparrow is strongly associated with human habitation, and can live in urban or rural settings. Though found in widely varied habitats and climates, it typically avoids extensive woodlands, grasslands, polar regions, and hot, dry deserts far away from human development. For sustenance, the house sparrow routinely feeds at home and public bird feeding stations, but naturally feeds on the seeds of grains, flowering plants and weeds. However, it is an opportunistic, omnivorous eater, and commonly catches insects, their larvae, caterpillars, invertebrates and many other natural foods.

30-10-2015 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - BLACK REDSTART (MALE) (Phoenicurus ochruros)

The Black redstart (Phoenicurus ochruros) is a small passerine bird in the genus Phoenicurus. Like its relatives, it was formerly classed as a member of the thrush family (Turdidae), but is now known to be an Old World flycatcher (Muscicapidae).

Black redstarts are mainly carnivores (insectivores, vermivores) feeding on various insects such as grasshoppers, flies, bugs, beetles, wasps, bees, ants, spiders, earthworms and even tiny crustaceans. They may also supplement their diet with seeds, berries, and fruits.

Black redstarts are diurnal birds. They spend daytime hours searching for food or perching in trees or bushes. They usually feed on the ground hopping around searching for insects or catching passing insects in flight, and may also use a “sit-and’wait” tactic. During winter Black redstarts are usually solitary but may be seen in pairs or small groups. With the start of the breeding season, they spend time in mated pairs and become territorial. Male Black redstarts have a rattling song and a ‘tick’ call.

The adult male of this species is overall dark grey to black on the upperparts and with a black breast; the lower rump and tail are orange-red, with the two central tail feathers dark red-brown. The belly and undertail are either blackish-grey (western subspecies) or orange-red (eastern subspecies); the wings are blackish-grey with pale fringes on the secondaries forming a whitish panel (western subspecies) or all blackish (eastern subspecies). The female is grey (western subspecies) to grey-brown (eastern subspecies) overall except for the orange-red lower rump and tail, greyer than the common redstart; at any age, the grey axillaries and underwing coverts are also distinctive. There are two distinct forms in first calendar year males at least in western subspecies, with the first ('carei') being similar to females and the second ('paradoxus') approaching adult males but lacking the whitish wing panel that does only develop during post-breeding molt of wing feathers in the second calendar year. This second form is much rarer than the first.

Black redstarts breed in south and central Europe and Asia and north-west Africa, from Great Britain and Ireland (where local) south to Morocco, east to central China. They are resident in the milder parts of their range, but north-eastern birds migrate to winter in southern and western Europe and Asia, and north Africa. In some areas, birds that breed in mountains move to lower elevations in winter. Black redstarts inhabit stony ground in mountains, particularly cliffs and stony slopes with xerophytic vegetation. They are also found in villages, and urban areas and often occur in large industrial complexes that have bare areas and cliff-like buildings.

Black redstarts are usually monogamous. They form pairs and males perform “dances” to attract the female. Black redstarts start breeding in mid-April. The nest is built by the female and is typically placed in a crevice or hole in a rock or a wall or on a ledge of a building. The nest consists of a loose cup of grass and stems and is lined with hair, wool, and feathers. The eggs are laid daily. The clutch consists of 4 to 6 eggs that are usually white but can also be pale blue. Beginning after the final egg is laid, the eggs are incubated by the female for 13-17 days. The young are cared for and fed by both parents and fledge after 12-19 days. Pairs may raise two broods during the year.

19-10-2015 LAKELAND, THURROCK - MALLARD (FEMALE) (Anas platyrhynchos)

The mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) is a dabbling duck that breeds throughout the temperate and subtropical Americas, Eurasia, and North Africa. Mallards live in wetlands, eat water plants and small animals, and prefer to congregate in flocks of varying sizes. Unlike many waterfowl, mallards are considered an invasive species in some regions. It is a very adaptable species, being able to live and even thrive in urban areas. This species is the main ancestor of most breeds of domestic duck, and its naturally evolved wild gene pool has been genetically polluted by the domestic and feral mallard populations.

The magnificent mallard is one of the most recognizable bird species around the world. When flying, the bird displays a purplish-blue speculum, which is outlined in white. Males of this species are particularly colorful. Breeding males have a yellow beak, dark brown chest, black and white tail as well as bright green head and neck. They exhibit a white ring at the base of their neck. In addition, the sides of breeding males and most of their wings are gray. On the other hand, the plumage of female mallards and non-breeding males is less vivid and colorful. The overall plumage of female mallards is spotted with tan and brown patches, and the head is a lighter tan, showing dark bands near the crown and eyes. Females have orange-colored beaks, covered with dark spots. Females and non-breeding males generally look alike, though the latter have yellowish beaks.

Southern Hemispheres; in North America, their range extends from southern and central Alaska to Mexico, the Hawaiian Islands, across the Palearctic, from Iceland and southern Greenland and parts of Morocco (North Africa) in the west, Scandinavia and Britain to the north, and to Siberia, Japan, and South Korea. Also in the east, it ranges to south-eastern and south-western Australia and New Zealand in the Southern hemisphere. Mallards are strongly migratory in the northern parts of their breeding range and winter farther south. They live in a wide range of habitats and climates, from the Arctic tundra to subtropical regions. They can be found in both fresh- and salt-water wetlands, including parks, small ponds, rivers, lakes, and estuaries, as well as shallow inlets and open seas within sight of the coastline. Water depths of less than 0.9 m (3.0 ft) are preferred, with birds avoiding areas more than a few meters deep. They are attracted to bodies of water with aquatic vegetation.

29-9-2015 VILLALONGA RESERVOIR, VALENCIA - GREY WAGTAIL (Motacilla cinerea)

Primarily a bird of fast flowing water the Grey Wagtail can also be seen along slower moving rivers and around the edges of lakes and ponds in our towns and cities, where its hunts aquatic insects. It is widespread in Britain & Ireland, but is found less on higher ground in the winter months.

Grey Wagtail is a partial migrant. As such, it can be affected by freezing conditions and during the autumn can be seen flying over migration watchpoints on the way to warmer climes further south, as far away as North Africa. Its UK population has fluctuated and the species is currently on the Amber List.

25-9-2015 ULLAL DE BALDOVI, VALENCIA - MALLARD (FEMALE) (Anas platyrhynchos)

The mallard (/ˈmælɑːrd, ˈmælərd/) or wild duck (Anas platyrhynchos) is a dabbling duck that breeds throughout the temperate and subtropical Americas, Eurasia, and North Africa. It has been introduced to New Zealand, Australia, Peru, Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, the Falkland Islands, and South Africa. This duck belongs to the subfamily Anatinae of the waterfowl family Anatidae. Males have green heads, while the females (hens or ducks) have mainly brown-speckled plumage. Both sexes have an area of white-bordered black or iridescent purple or blue feathers called a speculum on their wings; males especially tend to have blue speculum feathers. The mallard is 50–65 cm (20–26 in) long, of which the body makes up around two-thirds the length. The wingspan is 81–98 cm (32–39 in) and the bill is 4.4 to 6.1 cm (1.7 to 2.4 in) long. It is often slightly heavier than most other dabbling ducks, weighing 0.7–1.6 kg (1.5–3.5 lb). Mallards live in wetlands, eat water plants and small animals, and are social animals preferring to congregate in groups or flocks of varying sizes.

22-9-2015 CANAL LES FONTS OLIVA, VALENCIA - LITTLE EGRET (Egretta garzetta)

The Little Egret is a small white heron with attractive white plumes on crest, back and chest, black legs and bill and yellow feet. It first appeared in the UK in significant numbers in 1989 and first bred in Dorset in 1996. Its arrival followed naturally from a range expansion into western and northern France in previous decades. It is now at home on numerous south coast sites, both as a breeding species and as a winter visitor.

With its yellow feet, which are used to flush prey when feeding in shallow water, the Little Egret is a distinctive member of the heron family.

Little Egrets first bred in Britain in 1996 and since then have successfully colonised much of southern Britain and Ireland. Most of the breeding colonies have been established within existing Grey Heron colonies, the two species nesting alongside one another.

The winter distribution is also currently restricted to the southern half of Britain & Ireland, despite the fact that young birds are known to move some distance from their natal site.

Adult in breeding plumage has greyish-blue face and reddish lores. We can see two white long and fine feathers on the rear crown, extending from the nape to mid-neck. It also has “aigrettes”, long feathers on the upper breast and recurved scapular feathers. 

At this period, the base of the lower mandible is greyish. Feet are bright orange, even sometimes reddish for short time.  

In winter plumage, the Little Egret has black bill, greyish lores and pale yellow or greenish-yellow feet. It lacks the long nape feathers, and the “aigrettes” on its body. Eyes are pale yellow.

Little Egret frequent a wide variety of open wetlands with fresh, brackish or salt shallow water. It is visible on river and lake’s shores, in marshes, rice fields, flooded areas, sandy beaches, mudflats and mangroves, according to the range. It also follows cattle in drier areas.

This species usually frequents lowlands, but according to the range, it may be found between 1400 and 2000 metres of elevation. 

21-9-2015 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - GEOMETER MOTH (Charissa mucidaria)

Charissa mucidaria, the coppery taupe, is a moth of the family Geometridae. It was described by Jacob Hübner in 1799. It is found in southern Europe and North Africa (including Morocco).

The wingspan is 20–30 mm. Adults are on wing from March to May and again from July to September.

The larvae feed on Sedum, Anagallis, Polygonum and Rumex species.

19-9-2015 VILLALONGA RESERVOIR - GREY HERON (Ardea cinerea)

6-7-2017 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - SARDINIAN WARBLER (MALE) (Sylvia melanocephala)

The Sardinian warbler, Curruca melanocephala, presents itself as a charming and distinctive bird of the Mediterranean. The males are adorned with a sleek grey back and pristine whitish underparts, crowned with a striking black head, a pure white throat, and captivating red eyes. The females, on the other hand, exhibit a more subdued palette, with brown upperparts and buff underparts, complemented by a subtle grey head.

When attempting to identify the Sardinian warbler, look for the male's black head and red eyes, which contrast with the white throat and grey back. Females can be recognized by their brown and buff coloration with a greyish head. The variability in plumage, including the presence or absence of a reddish hue, can be a helpful clue in distinguishing between subspecies.

This typical warbler favors open landscapes and cultivated areas, where it can find bushes suitable for nesting. Its preference for such environments makes it a familiar sight in the Mediterranean countryside.

The Sardinian warbler is a resident of the southernmost regions of Europe, extending its range into Asia in Turkey and the eastern Mediterranean. While not extensively migratory, some individuals do venture to North Africa for the winter, and the species has been known to appear as a vagrant as far as Great Britain.

This typical warbler favors open landscapes and cultivated areas, where it can find bushes suitable for nesting. Its preference for such environments makes it a familiar sight in the Mediterranean countryside.

The Sardinian warbler is a resident of the southernmost regions of Europe, extending its range into Asia in Turkey and the eastern Mediterranean. While not extensively migratory, some individuals do venture to North Africa for the winter, and the species has been known to appear as a vagrant as far as Great Britain.

This species is known for its affinity for open and cultivated areas with ample shrubbery for nesting. The Sardinian warbler constructs its nest in low shrubs or brambles, where it lays a clutch of 3-6 eggs. Its diet is primarily insectivorous, but it will not shy away from indulging in berries and other soft fruits.

The Sardinian warbler's song is a rapid and rattling melody, a sound that has become synonymous with the Mediterranean landscapes where it thrives.

The breeding habits of the Sardinian warbler involve the construction of nests in low shrubbery, where the female lays a clutch of eggs that both parents will tend to.

The Sardinian warbler is part of a superspecies complex, which includes Menetries's warbler and the eastern subalpine warbler. These species share certain characteristics, such as white malar areas and light throats in males, but can be differentiated by other plumage features and their distinct calls.

Primarily insectivorous, the Sardinian warbler supplements its diet with berries and other soft fruits, particularly when insects are less abundant.

The Sardinian warbler is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating that, for now, this species does not face any imminent threats to its survival.

6-7-2017 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - MELODIOUS WARBLER (Hippolais polyglotta)

The Melodious Warbler, known scientifically as Hippolais polyglotta, is a medium-sized member of the Old World warbler family. It measures between 12 to 13 centimeters in length, presenting a plain brown back and wings, with a more yellowish hue on the underparts. This bird is distinguished by its strong and pointed bill, as well as its brown legs. Both sexes appear identical, a common trait among warblers, while juveniles exhibit a paler belly.

When identifying the Melodious Warbler, look for its brown upper parts which are less green than those of its eastern counterpart, the Icterine Warbler. The underparts are a distinct yellowish color. Its song is a delightful babble, less varied than the Icterine's but more fluent and sustained, without mimicked sounds. Listen also for a rattling "trrrr", similar to a House Sparrow, a soft "tuk", and a chattering "chret-chet".

This species thrives in open woodlands adorned with bushes. It is also found in forest edges, thickets, riverside vegetation, orchards, and gardens, which provide ample foraging opportunities and nesting sites.

The Melodious Warbler is a migratory bird, breeding in the warmth of southwest Europe and northwest Africa, and seeking winter refuge in the sub-Saharan regions of Africa. Its breeding territories span from the Iberian Peninsula to Germany and Italy, and in North Africa, it is found from Western Sahara to Tunisia.

The Melodious Warbler exhibits typical warbler behavior, being mainly insectivorous. It is known for its pleasant and melodious song, which it uses to communicate and establish territory during the breeding season.

The warbler's song is a charming and melodious babble, more consistent and smooth than that of the Icterine Warbler but with less variety and no mimicry. Its calls include a rattling "trrrr", a subdued "tuk", and a chattering "chret-chet".

During the breeding season, the Melodious Warbler lays a clutch of three to five eggs. The nest is artfully constructed from fine grasses, stems, soft twigs, flakes of bark, and lichen, typically situated in a tree or bush.

The Melodious Warbler can be confused with the Icterine Warbler, but it can be distinguished by its browner upper parts and yellower underparts, as well as its song and calls.

Insects form the mainstay of the Melodious Warbler's diet, but it will also consume other small food items, including berries, to supplement its nutrition.

6-7-2017 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - SPECKLED WOOD BUTTERFLY (Pararge aegeria)

The average wingspan of both males and females is 5.1 cm (2 in), although males tend to be slightly smaller than females. Furthermore, males possess a row of grayish-brown scent scales on their forewings that is absent in the females. Females have brighter and more distinct markings than males. The subspecies P. a. tircis is brown with pale yellow or cream spots and darker upperwing eyespots. The subspecies P. a. aegeria has a more orange background and the hindwing underside eyespots are reddish brown rather than black or dark gray. The two forms gradually intergrade into each other. Subspecies P. a. oblita is a darker brown, often approaching black with white rather than cream spots. The underside of its hindwings has a marginal pale purple band and a row of conspicuous white spots. The spots of subspecies P. a. insula are a tawny orange rather than a cream color. The underside of the forewings has patches of pale orange, and the underside of the hindwing has a purple-tinged band. Although there is considerable variation with each subspecies, identification of the different subspecies is manageable.

4-7-2017 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - NOMAD DRAGONFLY (FEMALE) (Sympetrum fonscolombii)

The red-veined darter or nomad (Sympetrum fonscolombii) is a dragonfly of the genus Sympetrum.

Sympetrum fonscolombii was named under the protonym Libellula fonscolombii by the Belgian entomologist Edmond de Sélys Longchamps, in 1840, in honor of the French entomologist Étienne of Fonscolombe (hence the species name). Its name is sometimes spelt fonscolombei instead of fonscolombii but Askew (2004) gives the latter as the correct spelling.

Sympetrum fonscolombii can reach a body length of 38–40 millimetres (1.5–1.6 in). This species is similar to other Sympetrum species but a good view with binoculars should give a positive identification, especially with a male.

Males have a red abdomen, redder than many other Sympetrum species. The frons and the thorax are red-brown. The eyes are brown above and blue/grey below. The wings have red veins and the wing bases of the hind-wings are yellow. The pterostigma is pale yellow with a border of black veins.

Female are similar but the abdomen is ochre yellow, not red, with two black lines along each side. The wings have yellow veins at the costa, leading edge and base, not red veins as found in the males. The legs of both sexes are mostly black with some yellow.

Immature males are like females but often with more red and a single line along each side of the abdomen.

Male S. fonscolombii can be mistaken for Crocothemis erythraea as both are very red dragonflies with yellow bases to the wings, red veins and pale pterostigma. However C. erythraea has no black on the legs, a broader body and no black on the head. Also C. erythraea females do not oviposit in tandem. The gestalt image of these two species is different and with some experience are easy to tell apart.

4-7-2017 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - MOORISH GECKO (Tarentola mauritanica)

Tarentola mauritanica, known as the common wall gecko, is a species of gecko (Gekkota) native to the western Mediterranean area of North Africa and Europe. It has been introduced to Madeira and Balearic Islands, and the Americas (in Montevideo, Buenos Aires and California). A nocturnal animal with a predominantly insectivorous diet, it is commonly observed on walls in urban environments in warm coastal areas; it can be found further inland, especially in Spain where it has a tradition of cohabitation with humans as an insect hunter. A robust species, up to 15 centimetres (5.9 in) long, its tubercules are enlarged and give the species a spiny armoured appearance.

The species was first described by Carl Linnaeus in 1758. It is also known as moorish gecko, crocodile gecko, European common gecko, and, regionally, as osga (in Portuguese), salamanquesa (in Spanish) and dragó (in Catalan).

The Common wall gecko is a small lizard native to the western Mediterranean area of North Africa and Europe. It is commonly observed on walls in urban environments, mainly in warm coastal areas. However, the Common wall gecko can be found further inland, especially in Spain where it has a tradition of cohabitation with humans as insect hunter. This little creature is brownish-grey or brown in color with darker or lighter spots. These colors change in intensity according to the light. When geckos are active by day their color is darker than during the night.

4-7-2017 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - HOUSE SPARROW (MALE) (Passer domesticus)

Nothing evil about house sparrows. They are adaptable and more competitive than many other cavity nesters. They are also one of the only birds that can thrive in highly urban environments. You'll never get bluebirds living in the inner city on a sky rise, but house sparrows manage.

Sparrows are a particularly welcome sight around family homes, where they symbolize good fortune.

The appearance of males will vary depending on the season. Males will be the easiest to identify throughout the breeding season and display the most distinct markings and colouration, with their patterned heads being the most recognizable during this time. Breeding males have a grey-coloured crown, a rufus/chestnut brown-coloured stripe behind the eye that extends down into the nape, a black throat that sometimes extends into the upper chest, white/light grey lower chest and belly, and brown and black striping located on the wings and mantle (area between the wings on birds’ back). Breeding males will usually have a black beak. 

5-7-2017 SANTA POLA, ALICANTE - YELLOW LEGGED GULL (Larus michahellis)

The Yellow-legged Gull (Larus michahellis) is a large, robust seabird with a commanding presence. Its size can be quite variable, with the smallest females being scarcely larger than a Common Gull, and the largest males approaching the heft of a Great Black-backed Gull. Adults typically exhibit a grey back, a shade lighter than that of the Lesser Black-backed Gull, and their heads are notably whiter in the autumn months. A distinctive feature is their yellow legs, which give this species its common name.

When observing the Yellow-legged Gull, look for the yellow legs that contrast with the grey back and the white head, which becomes even whiter during the autumn. The wing tips are black with limited white spots, and adults have a red spot on the bill. The eye is surrounded by a red ring. Juveniles can be identified by their paler head, rump, and underparts, dark bill and eyes, and a black band on the tail.

This gull favors a variety of coastal environments, often nesting on sea cliffs, islands, and occasionally on buildings within urban settings. It is also known to breed on trees in some regions.

The Yellow-legged Gull has a breeding range centered around the Mediterranean Sea, extending to the Atlantic islands and coasts as far north as Brittany and west to the Azores. Its presence is also noted on the western side of the Black Sea.

The species is known for its adaptability, with many individuals remaining in the same area year-round, while others migrate to milder regions of western Europe or head south to areas such as Senegal and the Red Sea. Post-breeding dispersal can lead to increased numbers in regions like southern England from July to October.

The vocalizations of the Yellow-legged Gull are characterized by a loud, laughing call that is deeper and more nasal than that of the Herring Gull.

Breeding typically occurs in colonies, with nests constructed on the ground or cliff ledges. The nests are mounds of vegetation, and the species is known for its vigorous defense of its eggs, usually numbering three. Incubation lasts for 27–31 days, and fledging occurs after 35–40 days.

An opportunistic forager, the Yellow-legged Gull is omnivorous, feeding on a wide range of items from rubbish tips to field prey, coastal offerings, and even other seabirds' catches. Remarkably, during periods of food scarcity, such as the lockdown in Italy in 2020, these gulls have been observed preying on larger animals like rats and rock doves.

The Yellow-legged Gull is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating that it does not face any immediate threat of extinction.

5-7-2017 SANTA POLA, ALICANTE - YELLOW LEGGED GULL (JUVENILE) (Larus michahellis)

The Yellow-legged Gull has only recently been recognised as a species in its own right, having previously been considered to be a race of Herring Gull. Adults have darker grey backs and wings than Herring Gulls, but are paler than Lesser Black-backed Gulls. They have more black in the wing tips than Herring Gulls and smaller white 'mirrors'. The legs are bright yellow, there is a red ring around the eye and the bill is yellow with a large red spot.

In non-breeding plumage, the head is less streaked and whiter than Herring Gulls. Juvenile Yellow-legged Gulls are very similar to juvenile Lesser Black-backed Gulls, but tend to be whiter-headed and start to gain a grey 'saddle' on their backs quickly as they moult to their first winter plumage. Immature birds gain adult-like characteristics as they mature over the course of five years with the legs turning yellow and dark grey feathers replacing the brown and black immature feathers.

Slightly larger and darker than a Herring Gull, the Yellow-legged Gull has a southerly distribution within Britain & Ireland.

The species was formerly recognized as species by the British Ornithologists' Union in 2005, even though birders had been recording its occurrence for some years. Increasing numbers of records, including a small number of breeding pairs along the south coast, reflect the expansion of breeding populations on the Continent and in North Africa. Our birds are at the very northern edge of their breeding range.

In autumn and winter birds can be seen more widely, often joining other gulls at feeding and loafing sites.

This species has an extremely large range, and hence does not approach the thresholds for Vulnerable under the range size criterion (Extent of Occurrence <20,000 km2 combined with a declining or fluctuating range size, habitat extent/quality, or population size and a small number of locations or severe fragmentation). The population trend appears to be increasing, and hence the species does not approach the thresholds for Vulnerable under the population trend criterion (>30% decline over ten years or three generations). The population size is very large, and hence does not approach the thresholds for Vulnerable under the population size criterion (<10,000 mature individuals with a continuing decline estimated to be >10% in ten years or three generations, or with a specified population structure). For these reasons the species is evaluated as Least Concern.

5-7-2017 SANTA POLA, ALICANTE - SLENDER BILLED GULL (JUVENILE) (Chroicocephalus genei)

The Slender-billed Gull, Chroicocephalus genei, presents a graceful figure, slightly larger than the familiar Black-headed Gull. It measures 37 to 40 cm in length with a wingspan stretching from 90 to 102 cm. Its plumage is a pale grey, complemented by a white head and breast, and accented with black tips on the primary wing feathers. The bird's head and dark red bill are elongated, contributing to its slender appearance, and it possesses a notably long neck. The legs are a matching dark red, while the iris of the eye is a striking yellow. During the summer months, one may observe a subtle pink blush upon its breast. This species attains full maturity over two years, typical for gulls. Juveniles can be identified by a black band at the tail's end and darker wing markings.

To identify the Slender-billed Gull, look for its distinctive elongated head and bill, and the dark red coloration of both the bill and legs. The pale grey body contrasts with the white head and breast, and the black wingtip markings are a key feature. In flight, the bird's long neck and slender profile are particularly noticeable.

This gull favors the lagoons and lakes in the vicinity of the Mediterranean Sea, as well as similar environments along the northwestern Indian Ocean. It is known to breed on islands and coastal lagoons, where the absence of predators and human disturbance allows for successful nesting.

The Slender-billed Gull breeds very locally around the Mediterranean and the northern reaches of the western Indian Ocean, including Pakistan. It exhibits migratory behavior, wintering to the south as far as North Africa and India. Occasionally, individuals have been recorded as vagrants in western Europe and as far afield as Antigua.

The Slender-billed Gull is a sociable bird, especially in winter, when it can be seen feeding and roosting in groups. It is not an oceanic bird and is seldom observed far from land. It breeds in colonies, with nests on the ground, and feeds by diving from the air into the water to catch fish or by probing mud for invertebrates. The gull also captures insects mid-flight. After a 25-day incubation period, the young take their first flight approximately 25 days later.

Fish comprise about half of this gull's diet. It employs a hunting strategy of flying over water and diving to capture prey. It also forages in mud for marine invertebrates and is adept at catching insects in the air. This species is also known to feed at landfill sites.

The Slender-billed Gull is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN. It is protected under the Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds (AEWA), ensuring international cooperation to safeguard its future.

5-7-2017 SANTA POLA, ALICANTE - GREATER FLAMINGO (Phoenicopterus roseus)

The Greater flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus) is the most widespread and largest species of the flamingo family. It was described by Peter Simon Pallas in 1811. The Greater flamingo was previously thought to be the same species as the American flamingo, but because of coloring differences of its head, neck, body, and bill, the two flamingos are now most commonly considered separate species.

Greater flamingos have an attractive coloration and appearance. Their feathers are pinkish/white, the wing coverts are red and the primary and secondary flight feathers are black. They have long pink bills with a black tip, yellow eyes and long pink legs. The male is bigger than the female, and juveniles have a gray-brown coloration, with some pink on their underparts, tail and wings, with the legs and beak being mainly brown.

The Greater flamingo inhabits Africa, the Middle East, southern Europe, and the Indian subcontinent. They occur in relatively shallow water bodies, such as saline lagoons, salt pans, large alkaline or saline lakes, and estuaries. Breeding takes place on sandbanks, mudflats, sandy or rocky islands, or open beaches.

5-7-2017 EL FONDO, ALICANTE - SQUACCO HERON (Ardeola ralloides)

The Squacco Heron, Ardeola ralloides, is a diminutive member of the heron family, measuring a mere 44–47 cm in length, with a compact body of 20–23 cm and a wingspan stretching 80–92 cm. This species is adorned with a buff-brown back and, during the summer months, adults boast elongated neck feathers that add to their allure.

In the field, one may identify the Squacco Heron by its stocky build, abbreviated neck, and stout bill. Its back is cloaked in a buff-brown hue. When in flight, the heron undergoes a remarkable transformation, revealing a predominantly white plumage that contrasts starkly with its resting appearance.

The Squacco Heron favors marshy wetlands in temperate regions for its habitat, where the water is warm and inviting.

Originating from the Old World, the Squacco Heron breeds in the southern reaches of Europe and extends into the Greater Middle East. When not breeding, it migrates to winter in the African continent.

This species is migratory by nature, seeking the warmer climates of Africa to spend the winter. It is seldom seen north of its breeding grounds. The Squacco Heron has been observed as a vagrant in the Fernando de Noronha islands and, on rarer occasions, in mainland South America. It nests in modest colonies, often in the company of other wading birds, and constructs its nests from sticks on platforms in trees or shrubs.

The Squacco Heron selects freshwater locales across Europe and the Middle East to breed, later migrating southward to the Sub-Saharan African region. During the breeding season, they lay a clutch of three to four eggs.

Adept at foraging, the Squacco Heron feeds on a diet consisting of fish, frogs, and insects, making the most of its wetland environment.

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

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