4-5-2018 ULAL DE BOLDOVI, VALENCIA - EUROPEAN GOLDFINCH (JUVENILE) (Carduelis carduelis)

The European goldfinch, or simply goldfinch (Carduelis carduelis), is a small, vibrant passerine bird belonging to the finch family. This charming avian species is adorned with a striking red face, encircled by black markings near the eyes, and a black-and-white head. The back and flanks exhibit a warm buff or chestnut brown, while the wings are black with a prominent yellow bar. The tail is black, and the rump is a contrasting white. Males and females are similar in appearance, though the male boasts a slightly more extensive red mask.

Upon closer inspection, one can discern the male goldfinch by its larger, more vivid red mask that extends just beyond the eye. The female's red face does not reach past the eye, and her shoulder feathers are brown, as opposed to the male's black. The bill is ivory-colored, long, and pointed, and the tail is forked. Juveniles can be identified by their plain heads and greyer backs, but the yellow wing stripe is a clear indicator of their species.

The European goldfinch favors open, partially wooded lowlands and is a resident in the milder western parts of its range. In colder regions, it migrates to escape the harsh weather.

6-5-2018 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - MONTPELIER CISTUS (Cistus monspelidensis)

Cistus monspeliensis is a species of rockrose known by the common name Montpellier cistus or narrow-leaved cistus. It is native to southern Europe and northern Africa, in the Mediterranean forests, woodlands, and scrub ecosystems of matorral—maquis shrublands.

Evergreen leaves of Cistus monspeliensis

Cistus monspeliensis is a shrub with narrow evergreen leaves and a hairy, glandular, sticky surface. The leaves are linear to lance-shaped, green, with a rugose, wrinkled upper surface, up to 5 centimeters long. In cultivation, C. monspeliensis attains a height of around one meter and a width of 1.5 metres.

The plant's inflorescence is generally a panicle of 2 to 8 flowers, each with five sepals and five white petals.

It is mainly distributed throughout the western Mediterranean Basin (Portugal, including Madeira; Spain, including the Canary Islands and Balearic Islands; Morocco; southern France, including Corsica; Italy, including Sardinia and Sicily; Malta; Algeria; Tunisia) but it is also present in Croatia; Serbia; Albania; Montenegro; Greece and Cyprus.

The plant has been reported elsewhere as an introduced species, and in California as an invasive species.

6-5-2018 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - SIERRA NEVADA OCELLATED LIZARD (Timon nevadensis)

Timon nevadensis, the Sierra Nevada lizard, is a species of lizard in the family Lacertidae. It is endemic to Spain. It is sometimes considered a subspecies of the ocellated lizard.

Formerly, Timon nevadensis had been regarded as subspecies of Timon lepidus but it has been put into species rank in 2013. Its distribution range is limited to the Sierra Nevada and the Spanish east coast, reaching the Alicante Province in the north.

The Sierra Nevada Ocellated Lizard is an impressive but terribly shy Lacertid. In particular, adult specimens may have flight distances of more than 20 meters. These lizards occur in high altitude mountain areas as well as in coastal dunes and agricultural land.

 

Adult specimens differ from Timon lepidus by the grey or brown basic coloration with no or reduced black markings.

The coloration of the Sierra Nevada Ocellated Lizard is truly captivating. Its body is predominantly green, with varying shades ranging from bright emerald to olive green. The scales on its back are usually patterned with intricate markings, which resemble a series of ocelli or “eye spots.” These ocelli are typically black or dark brown, surrounded by a lighter ring. This unique pattern serves as camouflage, helping the lizard blend into its natural environment.

Juveniles and subadults of Timon nevadensis frequently show dark edges on the labial scales which lack in juvenile Timon lepidus. However, there seem to exist populations with intermediate characteristics.

 

Within its distribution range, Timon nevadensis cannot be confused with other lizards, due to its big size of adults and the distinct white spot pattern of the juveniles.

The Sierra Nevada Ocellated Lizard, also known as the Iberian Ocellated Lizard or the Western Ocellated Lizard, is a reptile that belongs to the Lacertidae family. This lizard is native to the southwestern parts of Europe, specifically the Iberian Peninsula, including Portugal and Spain. It is a medium-sized lizard with a distinct physical appearance.

In terms of size, the Sierra Nevada Ocellated Lizard can grow to an average length of around 30 to 40 centimeters (12 to 16 inches), with males generally being larger than females. The body of this lizard is slender and elongated, allowing it to move swiftly and gracefully. It has a relatively long tail, which makes up a significant portion of its overall length.

The head of the Sierra Nevada Ocellated Lizard is triangular in shape, with a slightly pointed snout. Its eyes are large and round, providing excellent vision for detecting prey and potential predators. The iris of the eye is often golden or brown, adding to the lizard’s overall striking appearance. This species also possesses a row of small, sharp teeth, which it uses to catch and consume its prey.

28-3-2018 OUDTSCHOON, SOUTH AFRICA - SOUTHERN OSTRICH (Struthio camelus ssp. australis)

The South African ostrich (Struthio camelus australis), also known as the black-necked ostrich, Cape ostrich or southern ostrich is a subspecies of the common ostrich endemic to Southern Africa. It is widely farmed for its meat, eggs and feathers.

The South African ostrich is found in South Africa, Namibia, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Angola and Botswana. It lives in south of the rivers Zambezi and Cunene.

It is farmed for its eggs, meat, leather and feathers in the Little Karoo area of Cape Province.

Feral South African ostriches roam the Australian outback after having escaped from farms in the 20th century. The extent of their range in Australia is not known.

28-3-2018 OUDTSCHOON, SOUTH AFRICA - AMANNITA MUSHROOM (Genus Saproamanita)

The genus Saproamanita contains about 24 species of agarics and is one of six genera in the family Amanitaceae, of which the similar Amanita is also a member. Saproamanita differs from Amanita in that its species are saprophytic, and not ectomycorrhizal.

Saproamanita resemble Amanita. They have a pileus, free lamellae, a central stipe, and an annulus. Below the annulus are scales and rings, remnants of the universal veil composed largely of cylindrical to slender, clavate, inflated hyphal cells mostly scattered in the central stipe region (rather than the base). The spores are white and amyloid.

Saproamanita are known to inhabit grasslands, lawns, pastures, fens, and fields in Africa, Asia including the Indian subcontinent and Thailand, Australia, Europe, including Mediterranean islands (e.g. Cyprus)[18] and England, North America, including Mexico, the Caribbean, and South America, as well as glens in open canopy forests. Some species are known to form fairy rings. At least three of the species are invasive species expanding their ranges, S. inopinata in Europe, S. thiersii in North America, and S. manicata in Hawaii.

28-3-2018 OUDTSCHOON, SOUTH AFRICA - SOUTHERN FISCAL SHRIKE (Lanius collaris)

The Southern Fiscal (Lanius collaris), is a striking bird of the shrike family, prevalent throughout much of southern Africa. It is colloquially referred to as the 'jackie hangman' or 'butcher bird', a nod to its unique habit of impaling its prey on acacia thorns, a larder for future feasting. This bird was once considered conspecific with the Northern Fiscal, Lanius humeralis, under the collective title of the Common Fiscal.

Adult Southern Fiscals measure between 21 to 23 centimeters in length. They exhibit a bold dichromatic plumage with crisp white underparts contrasting sharply against their sleek black upperparts. A distinctive white "V" marks their back, and their long black tail is adorned with white outer feathers and white tips. Both sexes possess a black bill, eyes, and legs, with the female distinguished by her rufous lower flanks.

The Southern Fiscal is an adaptable species, inhabiting a variety of environments from grasslands adorned with fences suitable for perching, to acacia thornveld and even woodlands. It tends to avoid overly dense areas that would hinder its hunting prowess.

This bird's range extends across southern and eastern parts of the African continent, including parts of Angola, Namibia, South Africa, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, Zambia, Botswana, Tanzania, Malawi, and Zimbabwe.

A solitary hunter, the Southern Fiscal typically perches in exposed locations or atop shrubs, from where it preys on insects and small rodents. Its territorial range is influenced by the availability of perching sites, with an increase in artificial perches leading to a reduction in territory size. The bird's hunting strategies and physiology adapt to seasonal variations, with changes in body temperature, metabolic rate, and hunting methods observed in response to different environmental conditions.

The Southern Fiscal's vocal repertoire includes a mix of shrike-like sounds, ranging from harsh alarm calls to more melodious songs. While its song may sound sweet, it is generally used for territorial defense or pair bonding.

The Southern Fiscal's diet consists primarily of insects and small rodents. It has been noted as a significant predator of the plain tiger butterfly in eastern Africa. Seasonal changes influence its foraging behavior, with the bird adjusting its hunting times, attack rates, and prey size in response to the availability of food.

The IUCN Red List classifies the Southern Fiscal as Least Concern, indicating that the species does not currently face any significant threats to its survival.

28-3-2018 OUDTSCHOON, SOUTH AFRICA - FISCAL FLYCATCHER (Melaenornis silens)

The Fiscal Flycatcher, Sigelus silens, is a small, strikingly patterned bird, part of the Old World flycatcher family. It is the sole representative of its genus, easily recognized by its black and white plumage. The male exhibits a bold contrast with a black upper body and a pristine white underbelly, complemented by white wing patches and lateral tail feathers. The female, however, sports a more subdued brown upper body, akin to an immature fiscal shrike, rather than the male's stark black.

When identifying the Fiscal Flycatcher, look for a bird measuring 17–20 cm in length. The male is predominantly black with white underparts, wing patches, and tail sides. The female is distinguishable by her brown upper parts. They can be mistaken for fiscal shrikes, but unlike shrikes, they lack heavy, hooked bills and white shoulder patches, and their tails are shorter and adorned with white.

This species thrives in a variety of environments, including subtropical open woodlands, dry savannas, shrublands, and even suburban gardens, adapting well to human-altered landscapes.

The Fiscal Flycatcher is a resident breeder across several southern African countries, including Botswana, South Africa, Lesotho, Mozambique, and Swaziland, with occasional sightings reported in Namibia.

These birds are known for their open-cup nests, constructed from thin stems and plant material, and lined with plant down. Nests are strategically placed in dense bushes or thickets within trees, a nesting habit reminiscent of the fiscal shrike.

28-3-2018 LADYSMITH, SOUTH AFRICA - 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.

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.

27-3-2018 FERNKLOOF, SOUTH AFRICA - GREY HERON (Ardea cinerea)

Grey Herons are unmistakeable – tall, with long legs, a long beak and grey, black and white feathering. They can stand with their neck stretched out, looking for food, or hunched down with their neck bent over their chest.

The Grey Heron is a distinctive species with grey, black, and white plumage. It is often seen along rivers or lake margins, or standing in flooded fields.

In flight their large size, impressive wingspan, long legs, and folded neck give them an unmistakable silhouette. Largely silent away from colonies, flight is sometimes accompanied by a harsh ‘kraank’ call.

Grey Herons gather to nest in treetop sites called heronries, some of which have been occupied for many decades. These have been monitored in the UK since 1928 through the Heronries Census. Overall the UK's breeding population has increased, with numbers peaking in the early 2000, but with some more recent declines.

27-3-2018 FERNKLOOF, SOUTH AFRICA - CAPE SUGARBIRD (Promerops cafer)

The Cape sugarbird, a native to the Fynbos biome of South Africa, presents a striking figure with its grey-brown plumage. Males are particularly notable for their elongated tail feathers and a distinctive yellow patch beneath their tails. They range in size, with males measuring from 34 to 44 centimeters in length, while the more modestly adorned females span 25 to 29 centimeters.

When observing the Cape sugarbird, look for the male's remarkably long tail and the yellow spot under the tail. Females are identified by their shorter tails and bills, and lighter breast coloration. Both sexes can be recognized by the unique frrt-frrt sound produced by their wings in flight, a trait evolved to attract mates.

The Cape sugarbird thrives within the Fynbos, a fire-driven ecosystem dominated by flowering proteas and ericas. It favors areas that have not recently experienced burns and can be found visiting gardens during the summer months.

This species is endemic to the Western and Eastern Cape provinces of South Africa, where it is widespread throughout the Fynbos region. It is less common in areas that have been recently affected by fire.

24-3-2018 BOTANICAL GARDENS, CAPE TOWN - CAPE SPURFOWL (Pternistis capensis)

The Cape spurfowl, or Cape francolin, is a robust gamebird of the pheasant family, Phasianidae, and is the largest francolin native to southern Africa. It is a bird that, from afar, appears uniformly dark save for its striking red legs. Upon closer inspection, one can appreciate its finely vermiculated grey and white plumage, with a plainer crown and nape. The male is distinguishable by his two leg spurs, while the female may have a single, shorter spur.

Adult Cape spurfowls measure between 40–42 cm in length. Males are heftier, weighing in at 600–915 grams, while females are lighter at 435–659 grams. Juveniles resemble adults but have duller leg coloration and more pronounced vermiculations. The species is unlikely to be confused with others within its range due to its size and distinctive leg coloration.

This species thrives in the strandveld, renosterveld, and fynbos regions of the Western Cape, favoring areas near water. It is also found in the succulent karoo and along riverbanks in the Nama karoo.

27-3-2018 FERNKLOOF, SOUTH AFRICA - SOUTHERN FISCAL SHRIKE (JUVENILE) (lanius collaris)

The Southern Fiscal (Lanius collaris), is a striking bird of the shrike family, prevalent throughout much of southern Africa. It is colloquially referred to as the 'jackie hangman' or 'butcher bird', a nod to its unique habit of impaling its prey on acacia thorns, a larder for future feasting. This bird was once considered conspecific with the Northern Fiscal, Lanius humeralis, under the collective title of the Common Fiscal.

Adult Southern Fiscals measure between 21 to 23 centimeters in length. They exhibit a bold dichromatic plumage with crisp white underparts contrasting sharply against their sleek black upperparts. A distinctive white "V" marks their back, and their long black tail is adorned with white outer feathers and white tips. Both sexes possess a black bill, eyes, and legs, with the female distinguished by her rufous lower flanks.

HabitatThe Southern Fiscal is an adaptable species, inhabiting a variety of environments from grasslands adorned with fences suitable for perching, to acacia thornveld and even woodlands. It tends to avoid overly dense areas that would hinder its hunting prowess.

This bird's range extends across southern and eastern parts of the African continent, including parts of Angola, Namibia, South Africa, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, Zambia, Botswana, Tanzania, Malawi, and Zimbabwe.

A solitary hunter, the Southern Fiscal typically perches in exposed locations or atop shrubs, from where it preys on insects and small rodents. Its territorial range is influenced by the availability of perching sites, with an increase in artificial perches leading to a reduction in territory size. The bird's hunting strategies and physiology adapt to seasonal variations, with changes in body temperature, metabolic rate, and hunting methods observed in response to different environmental conditions.

The Southern Fiscal's vocal repertoire includes a mix of shrike-like sounds, ranging from harsh alarm calls to more melodious songs. While its song may sound sweet, it is generally used for territorial defense or pair bonding.

Diet and FeedingThe Southern Fiscal's diet consists primarily of insects and small rodents. It has been noted as a significant predator of the plain tiger butterfly in eastern Africa. Seasonal changes influence its foraging behavior, with the bird adjusting its hunting times, attack rates, and prey size in response to the availability of food.

The IUCN Red List classifies the Southern Fiscal as Least Concern, indicating that the species does not currently face any significant threats to its survival.

26-3-2018 HERMANUS, SOUTH AFRICA - CAPE ROBIN CHAT (cossypha caffra)

The Cape robin-chat (Dessonornis caffer) is a small passerine bird of the Old World flycatcher family Muscicapidae. It has a disjunct range from South Sudan to South Africa.

The locally familiar and confiding species has colonized and benefited from a range of man-altered habitats, including city suburbs and farmstead woodlots. It is an accomplished songster like other robin-chats, but is rather less colourful than most, and frequents either drier settings or higher altitudes. It forages in the proximity of cover, in the open or in fairly well-lit environments. Its distribution resembles that of the karoo–olive complex of thrushes, but it prefers the bracken-briar fringes of Afromontane forest, and does not enter far into forest proper. It is altitudinally segregated from the red-capped robin-chat, and is less of a skulker.

The Cape robin-chat occurs from South Sudan (mainly Imatong Mts, above 1,600 m) southwards to Uganda, the DRC (1,800 m – 3,475 m), Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia (above 1,800 m), Malawi (where common above 1,500 m), Zimbabwe, Namibia, South Africa, Eswatini and Lesotho. It is a mainly resident breeder in eastern and southern Africa, though some adults and juveniles may migrate more than 100 km to lower, warmer regions in winter. In their winter refuges, they may coexist with several other species of robin. Some are however year-round residents even at high altitudes. A five-year tenure of a breeding territory by the same pair is commonplace, and the maximum recorded life span is over 16 years.

26-3-2018 HERMANUS, SOUTH AFRICA - CAPE GULL (larus dominicanus ssp vetula)

The Cape gull differs from other forms of kelp gulls by its darker iris and larger body and bill size. The Southern African population is estimated to include 11,000 breeding pairs, and is expanding.

The kelp gull is referred to as the Cape gull in South Africa. There is currently a movement to have the gull that lives on the South African shoreline renamed to Cape gull, as it is so similar to the kelp gull, but they are not identical species.

The Cape gull is largely sedentary, and large colonies tend to stick to a favoured beach or coastal area. They frequently converge at popular feeding sites, and have been known to attack prey en masse.

This black and white gull is a common visitor to the beaches of the country. Its back and the tops of its wings are black; while the belly, head and tail are white. There are also white tips on the wings, called mirrors. The legs are a green-tinged yellow, which goes a brighter hue of yellow during the breeding season; and the bill is yellow with a vivid red spot on the underside.

Juveniles have a mottled-grey plumage, duller colouring on their legs, and a black bill. They take about three years to mature. The Cape gull has a shorter bill and a more angular head, and is differentiated by its pristine white tail and its dark-coloured eye.

26-3-2018 HERMANUS, SOUTH AFRICA - CAPE BULBUL (Pycnonotus capensis)

The Cape bulbul, Pycnonotus capensis, is a passerine bird of modest size, measuring 19–21 cm in length. It presents a predominantly dull, blackish-brown plumage, with a distinctive white eye-ring and vibrant yellow undertail coverts. A small crest adorns its head, and both the bill and the legs are a stark black, complementing the dark brown iris. The sexes are similar in plumage, making them indistinguishable in the field.

To identify the Cape bulbul, look for its darker plumage compared to other South African bulbuls. The white eye-ring is a key feature in adults, while juveniles can be recognized by their dark belly even before the eye-ring develops. The species' small crest and the contrast between the yellow undertail coverts and the dark body are also helpful markers.

The Cape bulbul is an endemic resident that favors coastal bush, open forest, gardens, and the unique fynbos vegetation of western and southern South Africa.

This bird is found exclusively in the aforementioned regions of South Africa, where it has adapted to a variety of local environments.

A common and conspicuous presence, the Cape bulbul is often observed perched atop bushes. It is an active and vocal species, typically encountered in pairs or small groups. These birds are known for their foraging habits, seeking out fruit, nectar, and insects to sustain themselves.

26-3-2018 CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA - RED WINGED STARLING (Onychognathus morio)

The Red-winged Starling, Onychognathus morio, is a striking bird native to

eastern Africa, with a range extending from Ethiopia to South Africa's Cape. This species exhibits sexual dimorphism; the male is predominantly iridescent black with chestnut flight feathers, while the female sports an ash-grey head and upper breast. Juveniles resemble males but have a duller sheen and brown eyes. The Ethiopian subspecies, O. m. rupellii, is characterized by a longer tail and intergrades with the nominate form.

When observing the Red-winged Starling, look for the male's glossy black plumage contrasted by chestnut flight feathers, especially visible in flight. Females can be identified by their streaky grey head plumage. The bird's dark, almost black eyes distinguish it from the similar Pale-winged Starling, which has bright red or orange eyes. The robust structure of the Red-winged Starling is adapted to support its weight while feeding on nectar from sturdy flowers.

This adaptable bird occupies a variety of habitats, including forests, savannahs, grasslands, wetlands, fynbos, farmlands, and urban areas. Its preference for cliffs and mountainous regions for nesting has translated well to the urban environment, where tall buildings mimic its natural nesting sites.

The Red-winged Starling is found along eastern Africa, from Ethiopia down to the Cape, Kwa-Zulu Natal, and Gauteng in South Africa. Its adaptability has allowed it to thrive in both natural and urban settings.

This starling is known for its territorial and aggressive nature during the nesting season, boldly defending its nest against intruders, including humans. Outside of breeding times, it is highly sociable, forming large flocks with its conspecifics.

The Red-winged Starling communicates with a variety of whistled calls, with the most common being a contact call described as "cher-leeeoo."

27-3-2018 FERNKLOOF, SOUTH AFRICA - FOREST CAPE BATIS (Batis capensis ssp. capensis)

The Cape batis, a member of the wattle-eye family, is a small and stout bird, endemic to the Afromontane forests of southern Africa. It presents a striking pattern, with the adult male showcasing a grey crown, a distinct black eye mask, and a white throat. Its back is brown, complemented by a black rump and tail, and rufous wings. The underparts are white, set off by a broad black breast band and rufous flanks. The female and juvenile are similar but with a narrower, rufous breast band and a small rufous patch on the throat.

When identifying the Cape batis, look for the male's black eye mask and breast band, which contrast with its white throat and underparts. The rufous wings and flanks are key features distinguishing it from other Batis species in the region. Females and juveniles have a rufous, rather than black, breast band and a rufous throat patch.

This bird favors cool coastal forests, moist evergreen mountain forests, and wooded gorges, where it can be found flitting about in the understory.

The Cape batis is native to South Africa, Eswatini, the Matobos and Eastern Highlands of Zimbabwe, and adjacent Mozambique. It is a resident species, meaning it does not typically migrate.

The Cape batis is a territorial bird, with both sexes known to defend their area with vigor. They are not shy in the presence of larger birds, animals, or humans, often perching conspicuously and voicing their displeasure. They employ a hunting strategy that includes flycatching and ground foraging, similar to shrikes. Their nests are small and neatly constructed cups situated low in trees or bushes.

The bird's song is a distinctive triple whistle, rendered as "cherra-warra-warra" or "foo-foo-foo," a sound that once heard, is not easily forgotten.

25-3-2018 TABLE MOUNTAIN, CAPE TOWN - BLUE CRANE (Anthropoides paradiseus)

The blue crane (Grus paradisea), also known as the Stanley crane or paradise crane, stands as a symbol of elegance in the avian world. This species, while tall and ground-dwelling, is relatively small for a crane, measuring between 100 to 120 cm in height, with a wingspan stretching from 180 to 200 cm. The blue crane tips the scales at a modest 3.6 to 6.2 kg. Its plumage is primarily a pale blue-gray, darkening towards the upper head, neck, and nape. A lighter, sometimes whitish hue graces the area from the crown to the lores. The bill presents an ochre to greyish color, occasionally with a pinkish cast. Notably, it boasts elongated wingtip feathers that elegantly trail to the ground. The primaries are a stark black to slate grey, with dark coverts and similarly shaded secondaries. This crane is distinguished by its relatively large head and slender neck. Juveniles share a resemblance to adults but are marked by a lighter tinge and lack the mature long wing plumes.

When observing the blue crane, look for its distinctive pale blue-gray coloration and the long wingtip feathers that sweep the ground. The bird's large head and thin neck set it apart from other cranes. Juveniles can be identified by their lighter color and the absence of elongated wing plumes.

The blue crane favors the dry grassy uplands, often found in pastured grasses of hills, valleys, and plains dotted with occasional trees. During nesting season, they show a preference for areas that provide access to both upland and wetland environments, though their feeding habits are almost exclusively in dry regions.

This crane is an altitudinal migrant, typically nesting in grasslands at elevations of 1,300 to 2,000 meters and descending to lower altitudes during winter. The blue crane has a restricted distribution, primarily found in eastern and southern South Africa, with a smaller, isolated population in the Etosha Pan of northern Namibia.

The blue crane exhibits partial sociability, becoming less so during breeding season. A strict hierarchy exists within groups, with larger adult males asserting dominance. While they share their range with other crane species, their interactions remain a mystery. Notably aggressive during nesting season, they will defend their territory against a variety of intruders, including humans.

The blue crane's breeding season is marked by a distinct seasonality, with eggs laid between October and March. Courtship involves a captivating dance where the male flings objects into the air and leaps skyward. After selecting a mate, the pair will engage in this dance before mating. Typically, two eggs are laid, incubated by both parents, with the male often taking the night shift. Chicks are precocial, walking within two days and swimming shortly after. They fledge at 3 to 5 months of age but remain under parental care until the following breeding season.

The blue crane forages primarily on the ground, consuming a diet dominated by grasses and sedges. Insects, particularly large grasshoppers, also feature in their diet, along with small animals like crabs, snails, frogs, lizards, and snakes, which are especially important for feeding their young.

The blue crane is currently classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN. A sudden population decline began around 1980, with significant losses in several regions. The species faces threats from habitat conversion, human population growth, and both accidental and deliberate poisoning. Conservation efforts include legal protection, research, habitat management, and education, with the support of private landowners being crucial.

25-3-2018 TABLE MOUNTAIN, CAPE TOWN - BLACK CROWNED NIGHT HERON (Nycticorax nycticorax)

The Black-crowned Night Heron, scientifically known as Nycticorax nycticorax, is a medium-sized heron with a global presence, spanning parts of Europe, Asia, and the Americas. It is distinguished by its black crown and back, contrasting with a white or grey body, red eyes, and short yellow legs. Notably, it deviates from the typical heron silhouette, appearing more robust with shorter bills, legs, and necks compared to its egret and day heron relatives.

Adults boast a striking black crown and back, with the rest of their plumage primarily white or grey. Their eyes are a vivid red, and they stand on short yellow legs. During social interactions, such as greeting or courtship, they display two or three elongated white plumes that extend from the back of their heads. Males and females are similar in appearance, though males may be marginally larger. Juveniles, on the other hand, are cloaked in a dull grey-brown with pale spots and streaks, and their eyes are a more subdued orange with less vibrant legs.

These herons favor fresh and salt-water wetlands as their breeding grounds, which are found across their vast range.

The Black-crowned Night Heron breeds across various regions: from Eurasia to Africa, the Indonesian Archipelago, North and South America, and even the remote Falkland Islands. While migratory in the northern extremes, it is generally a resident species, with North American populations wintering in warmer climes from Mexico to the West Indies.

Known for their ambush hunting tactics, these herons stand motionless at the water's edge, striking at prey primarily during the night or early morning. They exhibit a diverse diet, consuming fish, amphibians, insects, and more. They are also one of the few heron species to use tools, such as bait, to fish. By day, they rest in trees or shrubbery, and outside of breeding season, some subspecies display more sociable tendencies.

The Black-crowned Night Heron is a vocal species within its colonies, often heard making a "quok" or "woc" sound.

Colonial nesters, they construct platforms of sticks in trees or on the ground in protected areas. Clutch sizes range from three to eight eggs.

25-3-2018 CENTRAL GARDENS, CAPE TOWN - HADADA IBIS (Bostrychia hagedash)

The Hadada Ibis, Bostrychia hagedash, is a medium-sized bird native to the diverse landscapes of Sub-Saharan Africa. It is characterized by its stout legs and distinctive down-curved bill. The adult Hadada Ibis typically measures around 76 cm in length and weighs approximately 1.2 kg. Both sexes share similar plumage, which is primarily grey to partly brown, with a striking iridescent sheen of green or purple on the wing coverts.

When observing the Hadada Ibis, look for the narrow white stripe across its cheeks, often referred to as the "moustache," though it does not extend to the mouth corners. During the breeding season, the bird sports a red culmen on the upper mandible's basal half and similarly colored upper toe surfaces. Its powerful and broad wings facilitate quick take-offs and agile flight through dense foliage.

The Hadada Ibis thrives in a variety of habitats, including open grasslands, savannas, wetlands, and increasingly in urban environments such as parks, school fields, and residential gardens. It prefers areas with moist and soft soils, which are conducive to its foraging habits.

This species is widespread across Sub-Saharan Africa, with its range extending from Sudan to South Africa. The Hadada Ibis has seen a notable range expansion in southern Africa, attributed to increased tree cover and irrigation in human-altered landscapes.

The Hadada Ibis is known for its social roosting behavior, often in groups atop trees. It is a diurnal bird, vocalizing loudly during morning and evening flights. Its diet consists of insects, millipedes, earthworms, and other small invertebrates, which it hunts using its long, scimitar-like bill to probe the soil. The Hadada Ibis is also appreciated in urban settings for its role in controlling pests on lawns and greens.

The Hadada Ibis is renowned for its loud "haa-haa-haa-de-dah" call, which is particularly prominent during flight or when startled. This call has earned the species its onomatopoeic name. While roosting, a single loud "haaaa" can be heard, and a low growl, akin to a young puppy's, serves as a contact call when foraging.

Monogamous by nature, Hadada Ibises maintain pair bonds year-round. Breeding is timed with the rainy season, with nests constructed as twig platforms in large trees. Both parents incubate the typical clutch of three to four eggs for about 26 days, and the fledglings leave the nest after approximately 33 days.

Hadada Ibises primarily feed on soil invertebrates, which they detect using sensory pits around their bill tips. They are also known to consume snails and small reptiles, providing a natural pest control service in both natural and urban settings.

The IUCN Red List classifies the Hadada Ibis as Least Concern due to its extensive and common presence throughout its large range. The species has adapted well to human-modified environments, contributing to its stable population status.

24-4-2018 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA - SOUTHERN FISCAL SHRIKE (lanius collaris)

The Southern Fiscal (Lanius collaris), is a striking bird of the shrike family, prevalent throughout much of southern Africa. It is colloquially referred to as the 'jackie hangman' or 'butcher bird', a nod to its unique habit of impaling its prey on acacia thorns, a larder for future feasting. This bird was once considered conspecific with the Northern Fiscal, Lanius humeralis, under the collective title of the Common Fiscal.

Adult Southern Fiscals measure between 21 to 23 centimeters in length. They exhibit a bold dichromatic plumage with crisp white underparts contrasting sharply against their sleek black upperparts. A distinctive white "V" marks their back, and their long black tail is adorned with white outer feathers and white tips. Both sexes possess a black bill, eyes, and legs, with the female distinguished by her rufous lower flanks.

The Southern Fiscal is an adaptable species, inhabiting a variety of environments from grasslands adorned with fences suitable for perching, to acacia thornveld and even woodlands. It tends to avoid overly dense areas that would hinder its hunting prowess.

This bird's range extends across southern and eastern parts of the African continent, including parts of Angola, Namibia, South Africa, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, Zambia, Botswana, Tanzania, Malawi, and Zimbabwe.

A solitary hunter, the Southern Fiscal typically perches in exposed locations or atop shrubs, from where it preys on insects and small rodents. Its territorial range is influenced by the availability of perching sites, with an increase in artificial perches leading to a reduction in territory size. The bird's hunting strategies and physiology adapt to seasonal variations, with changes in body temperature, metabolic rate, and hunting methods observed in response to different environmental conditions.

The Southern Fiscal's vocal repertoire includes a mix of shrike-like sounds, ranging from harsh alarm calls to more melodious songs. While its song may sound sweet, it is generally used for territorial defense or pair bonding.

The Southern Fiscal's diet consists primarily of insects and small rodents. It has been noted as a significant predator of the plain tiger butterfly in eastern Africa. Seasonal changes influence its foraging behavior, with the bird adjusting its hunting times, attack rates, and prey size in response to the availability of food.

The IUCN Red List classifies the Southern Fiscal as Least Concern, indicating that the species does not currently face any significant threats to its survival.

24-4-2018 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA - RED HEADED FINCH (FEMALE) (Erythrocephala ssp dissita)

The red-headed finch, also known as the paradise finch, is a striking member of the estrildid finch family. Males are adorned with vibrant red heads and chests, presenting a bold contrast to their otherwise brown and white plumage. Females, while sharing the same overall pattern, are rendered in a more subdued palette.

To identify the red-headed finch, look for the male's unmistakable red head and chest. Both sexes possess a robust build and a heavy beak, reminiscent of the Lonchura genus, though they are more closely related to the Pytilias, such as the Melba finch. Their resemblance to the cut-throat finch is notable, as they are the only two species within the genus Amadina.

These finches are typically found in dry savannahs, where they forage on the ground.

The red-headed finch has a broad range across the African continent, with sightings confirmed in Angola, Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. The species enjoys a vast global extent of occurrence, estimated at 1,600,000 km².

Red-headed finches are often observed in small flocks. They exhibit a sociable nature, feeding in the company of other species and frequently visiting waterholes to drink.

The species is known for its distinctive double-noted 'chuck-chuck' call, which can be heard across the savannah.

The red-headed finch is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating a stable population without immediate threats to its survival.

In the vast expanses of Africa's dry savannahs, the red-headed finch continues to thrive, a small yet vibrant testament to the resilience of nature.