4-4-2018 PHINDA GAME RESERVE, SOUTH AFRICA - SOUTH AFRICAN GIRAFFE (Giraffa camelopardalis ssp. giraffa)

The South African giraffe or Cape giraffe (Giraffa giraffa or Giraffa camelopardalis giraffa) is a species or subspecies of giraffe found in South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Eswatini and Mozambique. It has rounded or blotched spots, some with star-like extensions on a light tan background, running down to the hooves.

In 2016, the population was estimated at 31,500 individuals in the wild.

The IUCN currently recognizes only one species of giraffe with nine subspecies.The Cape giraffe, along with the whole species, were first known by the binomen Camelopardalis giraffa as described by German naturalist Johann Christian Daniel von Schreber in his publication Die Säugethiere in Abbildungen nach der Natur mit Beschreibungen (The Mammals Illustrated from Nature with Descriptions) during his travel in the Cape of Good Hope in 1784. Dutch naturalist Pieter Boddaert also described it under the binomial name Giraffa giraffa whilst also identifying the nominate specimen of said species under the ternary name Giraffa camelopardalis giraffa in 1785.

The South African giraffe has dark, somewhat rounded patches "with some fine projections" on a tawny background colour. The spots extend down the legs and get smaller. The median lump of males is less developed.

The South African giraffe is found in northern South Africa, southern Botswana, southern Zimbabwe, and south-western Mozambique. After local extinctions in various places, South African giraffes have been reintroduced in many parts of Southern Africa, including in Eswatini. They are common in both in and outside of protected areas. South African giraffes usually live in savannahs and woodlands where food plants are available. Giraffes are herbivorous. They feed on leaves, flowers, fruits and shoots of woody plants such as Acacia.

South African giraffes live in a fission–fusion society system based on factors such as sex, age, season, and kinship. This allows them to adapt to environmental changes.

The South African giraffe population is estimated at 37,000 individuals, showing an increase of over 150% over the past three decades. The International Union for the Conservation of Nature, the body that administers the world's official endangered species list, announced in 2016 that it was moving the giraffe from a species of Least Concern to Vulnerable status in its Red List of Threatened Species report. That means the animal faces extinction in the wild in the medium-term future if nothing is done to minimize the threats to its life or habitat.

South African giraffes are uncommon in captivity. As of 2010, there are around 45 South African giraffes breeding in zoos. Approximately 12,000 privately owned farms, ranches, and national parks maintain populations of this giraffe.

4-4-2018 PHINDA GAME RESERVE, SOUTH AFRICA - PLAINS ZEBRA (Equus quagga)

The plains zebra (Equus quagga, formerly Equus burchellii) is the most common and geographically widespread species of zebra. Its range is fragmented, but spans much of southern and eastern Africa south of the Sahara. Six or seven subspecies have been recognised, including the quagga which was thought to be a separate species. More recent research supports variations in zebra populations being clines rather than subspecies.

Plains zebras are intermediate in size between the larger Grévy's zebra and the smaller mountain zebra and tend to have broader stripes than both. Great variation in coat patterns exists between clines and individuals. The plains zebra's habitat is generally, but not exclusively, treeless grasslands and savanna woodlands, both tropical and temperate. They generally avoid desert, dense rainforest and permanent wetlands. Zebras are preyed upon by lions and spotted hyenas, Nile crocodiles and, to a lesser extent, leopards, cheetahs and African wild dogs.

Plains zebras are a highly social species, forming harems with a single stallion, several mares and their recent offspring; bachelor groups also form. Groups may come together to form herds. The animals keep watch for predators; they bark or snort when they see a predator and the harem stallion attacks predators to defend his harem.

The plains zebra remains common in game reserves, but is threatened by human activities, such as hunting for its meat and hide, as well as competition with livestock and encroachment by farming on much of its habitat. The loss of open grasslands due to woody plant encroachment increases predation risk and therewith habitat. Plains zebra are listed as near threatened by the IUCN as of 2016. The species population is stable and not endangered, though populations in most countries have declined sharply.

The plains zebra's major predators are lions and spotted hyenas. Lions are most successful when targeting lone individuals, usually an old male while hyenas chase and isolate an individual from the group, usually a female or foal. Nile crocodiles also prey on zebras when they are near water. Less common predators include leopards, cheetahs and African wild dogs, which mostly hunt foals. When in the presence of a lion, zebras remain alert and stand in a semi-circle at as much as 100 m (330 ft) and no less than 50 m (160 ft). Stallions sometimes try to drive lions away with bluff charges. By contrast, zebras may approach cheetahs and wild dogs and a single hyena is allowed to come within a few metres. To escape from predators, an adult zebra can run at 60–70 km/h (37–43 mph). When being hunted by hyenas or wild dogs, a zebra harem stays close together and cooperates to protect threatened members, particularly the young. The harem stallion goes on the offensive and attacks the dogs or hyenas.

The plains zebra's range stops short of the Sahara from South Sudan and southern Ethiopia extending south along eastern Africa, as far as Zambia, Mozambique, and Malawi, before spreading into most southern African countries. They may have lived in Algeria in the Neolithic era. Plains zebras generally live in treeless grasslands and savanna woodlands, but can be found in a variety of habitats, both tropical and temperate. However, they are generally absent from deserts, dense rainforests, and permanent wetlands. They generally prefer Acacieae woodlands over Commiphora. They are water-dependent and live in more mesic environments than other African equids. They seldom wander 10–12 km (6.2–7.5 mi) from a water source. Zebras also live in elevations from sea level to 4,300 feet (1,300 m) on Mount Kenya.

Plains zebras primarily feed on grass; preferred species being Themeda triandra, Cynodon dactylon, Eragrostis superba and Cenchrus ciliaris. Zebra sometimes browse or dig for corms and rhizomes during the dry season. They appear to partial to eating scorched Colophospermum mopane and Pterocarpus rotundifolius, consuming both the leaves and twigs.

Plains zebras are adapted for grazing on both long, tough grass stems and newly emerging short grass. In some areas, it rarely feeds below 100–150 mm (3.9–5.9 in) to ground level. It ranges more widely than many other species, even into woodlands, and it is often the first grazing species to appear in a well-vegetated area. The flexible upper lip allows them to push plant material between the incisors to cut. Zebras have a less efficient digestive system than ruminants but food passage is twice as fast. Thus, zebras are less selective in foraging, but they do spend much time eating. The zebra is a pioneer grazer and prepares the way for more specialised grazers such as blue wildebeests and Thomson's gazelles.

4-4-2018 PHINDA GAME RESERVE, SOUTH AFRICA - COMMON IMPALA (MALE) (Aepyceros melampus ssp. melampus)

The impala or rooibok (Aepyceros melampus, lit. 'black-footed high-horn' in Ancient Greek) is a medium-sized antelope found in eastern and southern Africa. The only extant member of the genus Aepyceros, and tribe Aepycerotini, it was first described to Europeans by German zoologist Hinrich Lichtenstein in 1812. Two subspecies are recognised—the grassland-dwelling common impala (sometimes referred to as the Kenyan impala), and the larger and darker black-faced impala, which lives in slightly more arid, scrubland environments. The impala reaches 70–92 cm (28–36 in) at the shoulder and weighs 40–76 kg (88–168 lb). It features a glossy, reddish brown coat. The male's slender, lyre-shaped horns are 45–92 cm (18–36 in) long.

Active mainly during the day, the impala may be gregarious or territorial depending upon the climate and geography. Three distinct social groups can be observed: the territorial males, bachelor herds and female herds. The impala is known for two characteristic leaps that constitute an anti-predator strategy. Browsers as well as grazers, impala feed on monocots, dicots, forbs, fruits and acacia pods (whenever available). An annual, three-week-long rut takes place toward the end of the wet season, typically in May. Rutting males fight over dominance, and the victorious male courts females in oestrus. Gestation lasts six to seven months, following which a single calf is born and immediately concealed in cover. Calves are suckled for four to six months; young males—forced out of the all-female groups—join bachelor herds, while females may stay back.

The impala is found in woodlands and sometimes on the interface (ecotone) between woodlands and savannahs; it inhabits places near water. While the black-faced impala is confined to southwestern Angola and Kaokoland in northwestern Namibia, the common impala is widespread across its range and has been reintroduced in Gabon and southern Africa. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classifies the impala as a species of least concern; the black-faced subspecies has been classified as a vulnerable species, with fewer than 1,000 individuals remaining in the wild as of 2008.

The impala is diurnal (active mainly during the day), though activity tends to cease during the hot midday hours; they feed and rest at night. Three distinct social groups can be observed – the territorial males, bachelor herds and female herds. The territorial males hold territories where they may form harems of females; territories are demarcated with urine and faeces and defended against juvenile or male intruders. Bachelor herds tend to be small, with less than 30 members. Individuals maintain distances of 2.5–3 m (8.2–9.8 ft) from one another; while young and old males may interact, middle-aged males generally avoid one another except to spar. Female herds vary in size from 6 to 100; herds occupy home ranges of 80–180 ha (200–440 acres; 0.31–0.69 sq mi). The mother–calf bond is weak, and breaks soon after weaning; juveniles leave the herds of their mothers to join other herds. Female herds tend to be loose and have no obvious leadership. Allogrooming is an important means of social interaction in bachelor and female herds; in fact, the impala appears to be the only ungulate to display self-grooming as well as allogrooming. In allogrooming, females typically groom related impalas, while males associate with unrelated ones. Each partner grooms the other six to twelve times.

Social behaviour is influenced by the climate and geography; as such, the impala are territorial at certain times of the year and gregarious at other times, and the length of these periods can vary broadly among populations. For instance, populations in southern Africa display territorial behaviour only during the few months of the rut, whereas in eastern African populations, territoriality is relatively minimal despite a protracted mating season. Moreover, territorial males often tolerate bachelors, and may even alternate between bachelorhood and territoriality at different times of the year. A study of impala in the Serengeti National Park showed that in 94% of the males, territoriality was observed for less than four months.

The impala is an important prey species for Africa's large carnivores, such as cheetahs, leopards, wild dogs (its main predator), lions, hyenas, crocodiles and pythons. The antelope displays two characteristic leaps – it can jump up to 3 m (9.8 ft), over vegetation and even other impala, covering distances of up to 10 m (33 ft); the other type of leap involves a series of jumps in which the animal lands on its forelegs, moves its hindlegs mid-air in a kicking fashion, lands on all fours (stotting) and then rebounds. It leaps in either manner in different directions, probably to confuse predators. At times, the impala may also conceal itself in vegetation to escape the eye of the predator. The most prominent vocalisation is the loud roar, delivered through one to three loud snorts with the mouth closed, followed by two to ten deep grunts with the mouth open and the chin and tail raised; a typical roar can be heard up to 2 km (1.2 mi) away. Scent gland secretions identify a territorial male. Impalas are sedentary; adult and middle-aged males, in particular, can hold their territories for years.

4-4-2018 PHINDA GAME RESERVE, SOUTH AFRICA - BLUE WILDEBEEST (Connochaetes taurinus ssp. taurinus)

The blue wildebeest (Connochaetes taurinus), also called the common wildebeest, white-bearded gnu or brindled gnu, is a large antelope and one of the two species of wildebeest. It is placed in the genus Connochaetes and family Bovidae, and has a close taxonomic relationship with the black wildebeest. The blue wildebeest is known to have five subspecies. This broad-shouldered antelope has a muscular, front-heavy appearance, with a distinctive, robust muzzle. Young blue wildebeest are born tawny brown, and begin to take on their adult coloration at the age of 2 months. The adults' hues range from a deep slate or bluish-gray to light gray or even grayish-brown. Both sexes possess a pair of large curved horns.

The blue wildebeest is an herbivore, feeding primarily on short grasses. It forms herds which move about in loose aggregations, the animals being fast runners and extremely wary. The mating season begins at the end of the rainy season and a single calf is usually born after a gestational period of about 8.5 months. The calf remains with its mother for 8 months, after which it joins a juvenile herd. Blue wildebeest are found in short-grass plains bordering bush-covered acacia savannas in southern and eastern Africa, thriving in areas that are neither too wet nor too arid. Three African populations of blue wildebeest take part in a long-distance migration, timed to coincide with the annual pattern of rainfall and grass growth on the short-grass plains where they can find the nutrient-rich forage necessary for lactation and calf growth.

The blue wildebeest is native to Angola, Botswana, Eswatini, Kenya, Mozambique, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Today, it is extinct in Malawi, but has been successfully reintroduced in Namibia. The southern limit of the blue wildebeest range is the Orange River, while the western limit is bounded by Lake Victoria and Mount Kenya. The blue wildebeest is widespread and is being introduced into private game farms, reserves, and conservancies. The International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources rates the blue wildebeest as being of least concern. The population has been estimated to be around 1.5 million, and the population trend is stable.

4-4-2018 PHINDA GAME RESERVE, SOUTH AFRICA - SENEGAL LAPWING (Vanellus lugubris)

The Senegal lapwing, also known as the lesser black-winged lapwing, bears the scientific name Vanellus lugubris. This bird is a member of the Charadriidae family, which is known for its diverse group of shorebirds.

A small, dour, gray-brown lapwing with a white belly and a well-defined white patch on the forehead. In flight it has a distinctive white wedge on the back of the inner wing. Small groups scurry over open dry savanna and short-grass plains below 1600 m, looking for insects. It moves to areas experiencing bush fires as it prefers breeding in recently burned grasslands. It can be surprisingly unobtrusive, but the loud two-note “chi-whoo” call often gives it away. The similar Black-winged Lapwing differs by preferring high-altitude grassland and cultivation above 1300 m and in being larger, having reddish (not dark) legs, a larger, diffuse forehead patch, and a dark edge to the back of the inner wing.

To identify the Senegal lapwing, look for its distinctive features which include a robust body, a short tail, and relatively long legs. Its plumage is generally cryptic, allowing it to blend into its grassland habitat.

The Senegal lapwing favors open grassy environments. These habitats provide the necessary conditions for foraging and nesting, away from the dense cover of forests.

This species is an intra-African migrant that may undertake regular seasonal movements or more irregular movements related to the occurrence of brush fires (del Hoyo et al. 1996). Some populations also remain largely sedentary (del Hoyo et al. 1996). It breeds in loosely colonial groups with several pairs scattered over a small area, the timing of breeding varying geographically (del Hoyo et al. 1996). The species is gregarious throughout the year (Urban et al. 1986), usually foraging in flocks of 5-10 individuals and migrating in large flocks (del Hoyo et al. 1996). Habitat The species inhabits dry, open habitats (del Hoyo et al. 1996) such as lightly wooded savannas, open grassland with bushes and scrub, patches of burnt grass in Accacia spp. woodland and sparsely vegetated short grassland (Urban et al. 1986). It shows a strong preference for burnt grassland with newly sprouted grass (del Hoyo et al. 1996) especially if this is in the vicinity of water (Hayman et al. 1986). Other habitats frequented include cultivated land, airfields (del Hoyo et al. 1996), pastures (Urban et al. 1986) and the margins of lakes and rivers (del Hoyo et al. 1996). Diet Its diet consists of adult and larval insects (especially beetles) and other small invertebrates as well as grass seeds (del Hoyo et al. 1996). Breeding site The nest is a scrape or depression positioned on burnt ground with newly sprouting grass, on bare patches in grassland or on ploughed land (del Hoyo et al. 1996).

This species has a broad range across the African continent. It can be found in countries such as Angola, Burundi, Cameroon, both Congos, Ivory Coast, Eswatini, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Mali, Mozambique, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

The Senegal lapwing exhibits typical lapwing behaviors, which include foraging for food on the ground and displaying territorial actions during the breeding season.

The IUCN Red List has classified the Senegal lapwing as Least Concern. This indicates that, currently, there are no immediate threats to the population levels of this species that would warrant a higher level of concern.

4-4-2018 PHINDA GAME RESERVE, SOUTH AFRICA - EASTERN HINGED BACK TORTOISE (Kinixys zombensis)

Kinixys is a genus of turtles in the family Testudinidae. The genus was erected by Thomas Bell in 1827. The species in the genus Kinixys are native to Sub-Saharan Africa and Madagascar and commonly known as hinged tortoises or hinge-back tortoises.

Most of the Kinixys species are omnivores. They feed mainly on a wide range of different leaves, weeds, roots, flowers and fruits. However, they also eat worms, insects and other small invertebrates.

The several species of the genus Kinxys are found across much of tropical and sub-tropical sub-Saharan Africa, ranging as far south as KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa, and as far north as the fringes of the Sahel and Sahara. However, individuals are often very scarce within this range, and several species are threatened.

Though the species' wide geographic ranges overlap considerably, they are separated from each other by favouring different habitats within this range. Some species (such as K. belliana) favour open savannah or grasslands, others (such as K. homeana) favour rainforest.

Species of tortoises in the genus Kinixys play host to a number of ectoparasites (external) and endoparasites (internal). A survey (by Alan Probert & Clive Humphreys) of mixed captive K. spekii and K. belliana (mostly K. spekii) in Zimbabwe showed that the following parasites were known to infest/infect this species. This had been observed and published by others too. However some of the tiny roundworms (photographed under scanning electron microscope) are very likely new species and as yet remain undescribed.

4-4-2018 PHINDA GAME RESERVE, SOUTH AFRICA - YELLOW THROATED LONGCLAW (Macronyx croceus)

The yellow-throated longclaw (Macronyx croceus) is a species of bird in the family Motacillidae. It is found in Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Eswatini, Ivory Coast, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Malawi, Mali, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, South Sudan, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Its natural habitats are dry savanna, subtropical or tropical seasonally wet or flooded lowland grassland, and sandy shores.

A large pipit-like bird with golden-yellow underparts and eyebrow, and a circular broad black necklace emphasizing the yellow throat. The upperparts are subdued streaky brown and the outer tail corners are white, which is a key feature in flight. Pairs occupy grassland and grassy savanna, especially close to water, or when it is flooded. The species often perches up to sing a strongly whistled “chuuu-ew” and variations thereof. The smaller Fülleborn's Longclaw differs from Yellow-throated Longclaw by lacking any streaking on the breast below the black necklace.

Yellow-throated longclaws are passerine birds, which means that they like to stand or perch on trees, branches, and even fence posts. They are most often solitary or with a partner, foraging for insects on the ground. In addition to their namesake long claws, these birds also have long tails that they swish back and forth frequently. Their nests are built on the ground and they lay up to four speckled eggs. They grow to 20 cm (8 in) long.

These birds are endemic to many African countries, such as Angola, Burkina Faso, Benin, Burundi, Cameroon, Chad, Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Mozambique, Nigeria, Senegal, Somalia, South Africa, Tanzania, Togo, Zambia, and Zimbabwe among others.

Yellow-throated longclaws love to forage on the ground, plucking its food from the ground. However, it may occasionally catch prey in flight. It feeds on insects and invertebrates, such as grasshoppers, moths, ants, mantids, millipedes, beetles, worms, mollusks, and arthropods.

These birds are monogamous and will only seek a new mate if their partner dies. During courtship, the males perform an aerial display, flying slowly in a circle with its tails spread wide.

Their breeding season happens from September to March, peaking in November to January. The females build the nest, a thick wall of grass stems and blades, bordered by more delicate rootlets and grass. Since they are ground-nesters, they hide their nest by concealing it with rank grass, leaving an ample-sized hole as their entrance.

The female lays 1-4 gray colored eggs, solely incubated by the female yellow-throated longneck for about two weeks. The parents jointly feed the chicks. Their juveniles leave the nest about three weeks after they hatch or when they already able to run fast against predators.

4-4-2018 PHINDA GAME RESERVE, SOUTH AFRICA - RED BILLED TEAL (Anas erythrorhyncha)

The Red-billed Teal, known scientifically as Anas erythrorhyncha, is a medium-sized dabbling duck. It measures 43–48 centimeters in length and is adorned with a blackish cap and nape, which strikingly contrasts with its pale face. The bird's most distinctive feature is its bright red bill. Its body plumage is a rather subdued dark brown, delicately scalloped with white. When in flight, one can observe that the secondary flight feathers are buff-colored with a prominent black stripe.

Both sexes of the Red-billed Teal are similar in appearance, with juveniles presenting a slightly duller version of the adults' plumage. To identify this species, look for the combination of the red bill, pale face, and the unique pattern on the secondary flight feathers during flight.

The Red-billed Teal favors freshwater habitats within relatively open landscapes. It is commonly found in areas that provide dense vegetation near water, which is essential for nesting.

This species is an abundant resident breeder in southern and eastern Africa, typically found south of 10° S latitude. While not migratory, the Red-billed Teal is known to travel considerable distances in search of suitable waters.

Outside of the breeding season, the Red-billed Teal is highly gregarious, forming large flocks. It is an omnivore, feeding by dabbling for plant food or foraging on land, often during the evening or at night.

The Red-billed Teal is generally a quiet bird. However, during display, the male emits a 'whzzt' call, while the female produces a soft, mallard-like quack.

Nesting occurs on the ground amidst dense vegetation close to water bodies. This strategic choice of nesting site provides protection and proximity to essential resources.

As an omnivore, the Red-billed Teal's diet includes a variety of plant materials. It typically feeds by dabbling in the water or foraging on land, with a preference for feeding in the later hours of the day or at night.

4-4-2018 PHINDA GAME RESERVE, SOUTH AFRICA - HIPPOPOTAMUS (Hippopotamus amphibius)

The hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius) is a large semiaquatic mammal native to sub-Saharan Africa. It is one of only two extant species in the family Hippopotamidae, the other being the Pygmy hippopotamus. Its name comes from the ancient Greek for "river horse".

Aside from elephants and rhinos, the hippopotamus is the largest land mammal. It is also the largest extant land artiodactyl. Despite their physical resemblance to pigs and other terrestrial even-toed ungulates, the closest living relatives of the Hippopotamidae are cetaceans (whales, dolphins, porpoises, etc.), from which they diverged about 55 million years ago. Hippos are among the most dangerous animals in the world due to their highly aggressive and unpredictable nature.

Hippos are recognizable for their barrel-shaped torsos, wide-opening mouths with large canine tusks, nearly hairless bodies, pillar-like legs, and large size. The eyes, ears, and nostrils of hippos are placed high on the roof of their skulls. This allows these organs to remain above the surface while the rest of the body is submerged. The hippo's jaw is powered by huge masseter and digastric muscles which give them large, droopy cheeks.  The jaw hinge allows the animal to open its mouth at almost 180°. The canines and incisors are used mainly for combat instead of feeding. Hippos rely on their flattened, horny lips to grasp and pull grasses which are then ground by the molars. Hippo skin is 6 cm (2 in) thick across much of its body with little hair.  The animal is mostly purplish-grey or blue-black, but brownish-pink on the underside and around the eyes and ears. Their skin secretes a natural, red-colored sunscreen substance that is sometimes referred to as "blood sweat" but is neither blood nor sweat. This secretion is initially colorless and turns red-orange within minutes, eventually becoming brown. This natural sunscreen cannot prevent the animal's skin from cracking if it stays out of water too long.

4-4-2018 PHINDA GAME RESERVE, SOUTH AFRICA - SOUTHERN SPUR WINGED GOOSE (Plectropterus gambensis ssp niger)

Spur-winged geese (Plectropterus gambensis) are large, Sub-Saharan African waterbirds. They are among the largest true African waterfowl (besides the wading Goliath heron) and are, on average, the world's largest "goose".

Adults of this species are 75-115 cm (30-45 in) long, and weigh an average of 4-6.8 kg (8.8-15 lb) (rarely up to 10 kg (22 lb)); ganders (males) are noticeably larger than the geese (females). Spur-winged geese are mainly black, with a white face and large white wing patches. Their long legs are pinkish-red in color. The male differs from the female, not only in size, but also in having a larger red facial patch extending back from the red bill, and a knob at the base of the upper mandible.

Spur-winged geese occur in Gambia to Ethiopia, south to Angola and the River Zambezi, and south of the Zambezi River in southern Africa from Namibia and Zimbabwe to the Cape Provinces. They prefer open grasslands with lakes, seasonal pools, rivers, swamps, and river deltas. Large inland rivers and lakes are perhaps most commonly inhabited, with saline lakes; they usually avoid upland areas, although they can occur at higher elevations in eastern Africa.

4-4-2018 PHINDA GAME RESERVE, SOUTH AFRICA - COMMON LEOPARD BUTTERFLY (Phalanta phalantha)

Phalanta phalantha, the common leopard or spotted rustic, is a sun-loving butterfly of the nymphalid or brush-footed butterfly family.

The common leopard is a medium-sized butterfly with a wingspan of 50–55 mm with a tawny colour and marked with black spots. The underside of the butterfly is more glossy than the upper and both the male and female are similar looking. A more prominent purple gloss on the underside is found in the dry-season form of this butterfly.

The butterfly is found in Subsaharan Africa and southern Asia (including India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar) in a number of subspecies.

 It is widely distributed and abundant; from the tops of hills in Sri Lanka and southern India and up to 3000 m in the Himalayas, as well as the whole of Subsaharan Africa.

Sun loving and avoids shade. Seen in the plains, gardens, and edges of clearings. Has active and sharp flight movements. Visits flowers regularly especially Lantana, Duranta, Meyenia laxiflora, Gymnosporia montana, and thistles. Often seen mudpuddling from damp patches in the ground, either alone or in groups. A regular basker with wings spread wide open. It is commonest in dry areas and dry weather and absent from the wetter parts of India during the monsoon. It often perches on edges of clearing with wings half open and has the habit of chasing away other butterflies and guarding its territory.

14-5-2018 VILLALONGA RESERVOIR, 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.

14-5-2018 VILLALONGA TUNNELS, VALENCIA - SWEET SCABIOUS (scabiosa atropurpurea)

Scabiosa atropurpurea (syn. Sixalix atropurpurea), the mourningbride, mournful widow, pincushion flower, or sweet scabious, is an ornamental plant of the genus Scabiosa in the family Caprifoliaceae. It is native to southern Europe.

Scabiosa atropurpurea has cauline leaves that are pinnately dissected, plants have red to purple flowers. It is native to southern Europe. It propagates by seeds which are dispersed by animals.

It prefers cooler climates; high temperatures and humidity negatively impact its growth. Scabiosa atropurpurea grows best in rich, alkaline soils high in organic matter with good drainage. It makes a good cut flower. Scabiosa atropurpurea 'Beaujolais Bonnets' is a cultivar grown for its long blooming period and burgundy flowers.

It has become an invasive species outside of its native range, including the US state of California where it has invaded grasslands. It ranks as one of South Australia's most commonly recorded weeds.

14-5-2018 VILLALONGA RESERVOIR, 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.

1-4-2018 EDEN PLETTENBERG BAY, SOUTH AFRICA - AMERICAN FLAMINGO (Phoenicopterus ruber)

The American flamingo, known scientifically as Phoenicopterus ruber, is a strikingly vibrant wading bird with a profusion of reddish-pink plumage. This species, the only flamingo naturally inhabiting North America, is recognized by its long, lean stature, standing 120 to 145 cm tall. The males, slightly heavier, average 2.8 kg, while females tip the scales at around 2.2 kg. The bird's plumage transitions from a paler hue during youth to the iconic pink of adults, a result of their specialized diet. The wings are adorned with red coverts and contrasting black flight feathers, while the bill is a mosaic of pink, white, and a pronounced black tip. Completing the portrait are the entirely pink legs, a feature that adds to the bird's elegance.

When identifying the American flamingo, look for the following key characteristics: a large bird with predominantly pink plumage, red wing coverts, black primary and secondary flight feathers, and a distinctive bill that is pink and white with a black tip. The legs are also pink, and the bird's overall stature is tall and slender. The call of the American flamingo is a resonant, goose-like honking.

The American flamingo favors saline lagoons, mudflats, and shallow brackish coastal or inland lakes. These environments provide the ideal conditions for the flamingo's feeding and breeding habits.

This species is native to the West Indies, northern South America, including the Galápagos Islands, and the Yucatan Peninsula. Historically, it was also found in southern Florida, where it is now an uncommon visitor with potential small resident populations.

1-4-2018 EDEN PLETTENBERG BAY, SOUTH AFRICA - SCARLET IBIS (Eudocimus ruber)

The Scarlet Ibis (Eudocimus ruber), sometimes referred to as the red ibis, is a strikingly colored member of the ibis family, Threskiornithidae. Its brilliant scarlet plumage sets it apart from other species, making it an unmistakable sight in its native habitats. This bird is one of the two national birds of Trinidad and Tobago and is celebrated in the region's culture and folklore.

Adult Scarlet Ibises are predominantly scarlet, with the intensity of color varying slightly across their feathers. The tips of their wings are the only exception, displaying a rich inky black or dark blue on the longest primaries. The bill and feet are generally red, though the bill may darken towards the end. Juveniles start out grey, brown, and white, gradually acquiring the adult's scarlet hue as they mature. Adults measure 55–63 centimeters in length, with a wingspan of approximately 54 centimeters.

Scarlet Ibises favor wetlands and marshy environments, including mudflats, shorelines, and rainforests. They are often found in areas with abundant water sources, such as swamps, where they can forage for food.

This species has a broad range across South America and the Caribbean. It is native to Brazil, Colombia, French Guiana, Guyana, Suriname, Venezuela, and several Caribbean islands. The Scarlet Ibis is also known to inhabit the coastal regions of various Brazilian states.

Scarlet Ibises are strong fliers, migrating in flocks that adopt the classic V formation. They are sociable birds, living in groups and nesting in close proximity to one another. These birds are also known for their aggressive behavior when foraging, often dominating over other species to secure food.

The Scarlet Ibis is relatively quiet, with its vocalizations typically consisting of low-pitched honking sounds.

Mating pairs construct simple stick nests in trees, often above water for protection. They lay clutches of three to five eggs, which incubate for about 19–23 days. Both parents share in the care of the young.

The American White Ibis (Eudocimus albus) is the closest relative and is sometimes considered conspecific. However, the Scarlet Ibis is distinguished by its vibrant red coloration.

The diet of the Scarlet Ibis is varied, including insects, crustaceans, and other small prey. They use their long, curved bills to probe for food in mud and under plants. Their red coloration is due to a diet rich in red crustaceans, which contain the carotenoid astaxanthin.

The Scarlet Ibis is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN. While some local populations are declining, the species as a whole is not currently considered threatened.

The Scarlet Ibis holds significant cultural importance in Trinidad and Tobago, where it is a national bird and features on the country's coat of arms. It is also a focal species for conservation efforts in the region, particularly within the Caroni Swamp wildlife sanctuary.

1-4-2018 EDEN PLETTENBERG BAY, SOUTH AFRICA - RINGED TEAL (Callonetta leucophrys)

The Ringed Teal, Callonetta leucophrys, presents a striking palette of colors that remain vibrant throughout the year, eschewing the typical eclipse plumage seen in other species. The male, or drake, boasts a rich chestnut back, pale grey flanks, and a salmon-colored breast dotted with black. A distinctive black band extends from the crown to the nape. The female is adorned with an olive-brownish back and a head marked with white blotches and striations, while her chest and belly display a subtle penciled barring. Both sexes share a dark tail, a contrasting pale rump, and a notable white patch on the wing, with grey bills and pink legs and feet. These teals are relatively small, averaging 14–15 inches in length with a wingspan of about 28 inches, and weighing between 11–12 ounces. Their webbed toes, tipped with long, pointed claws, are uniquely adapted for perching on tree branches, a trait uncommon among waterfowl.

To identify the Ringed Teal, look for the male's black headband and salmon breast, and the female's white-streaked head and barred underparts. The white wing patch is conspicuous in both sexes. Their specialized toes and claws may also be observed when the birds perch on branches.

The Ringed Teal favors tropical, swampy forests and marshy clearings within well-wooded lowlands. They are also found around secluded pools and small streams, where the environment provides ample resources for their aquatic lifestyle.

This species is native to South America, with breeding populations in north-west Argentina and Paraguay, and additional presences in Bolivia, Brazil, and Uruguay.

Ringed Teals form strong pair bonds, often lasting a single breeding season, though some may persist for life. Courtship involves preening, displaying the iridescent green speculum, and swimming in figure eights while vocalizing. They nest in tree cavities, with both sexes participating in incubation. Chicks are precocial and are raised and defended by both parents until fledging at around 50–55 days old. The species is capable of producing two broods per season.

The Ringed Teal's vocalizations are distinctive, with the female emitting a cat-like "mee-oowing" and the male producing a prolonged "peewoo."

Upon reaching sexual maturity, these teals engage in elaborate courtship rituals, leading to mating in water. Nesting occurs in hollow tree cavities, lined with down. Females lay 6-12 white eggs, incubated for approximately 29 days. The chicks hatch with down but rely on their parents for waterproofing oils until their own glands develop.

As dabblers, Ringed Teals feed on aquatic plants, invertebrates, and available seeds near the water's surface. They may up-end to reach food but do not dive like other waterfowl species.

13-5-2018 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - ROUGH HAIRED LAGRIA BEETLE (Lagria hirta)

Lagria hirta is a species of beetle in the family Tenebrionidae.

The species name hirta comes from the Latin hirtus meaning rough hair or rough wool, referring to the coarse, fuzzy appearance of the beetle.

This species is present in Europe, in North Africa (Algeria, Morocco), in Russia (Western and Eastern Siberia), in Israel, Turkey, Iran, Iraq, Paraguay, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan.

L. hirta prefers areas with sandy soils. It can be found in open woods, deciduous forests, forest clearings, forest edges, grasslands, and wet meadows, but also in dry valleys and wet areas.

Lagria hirta can reach a length of 7–8 millimetres (0.28–0.31 in). These beetles have a soft and elongated body and a head and thorax brown or shiny black. The relatively elongated elytra are yellowish-brown and covered by dense fine light yellowish-brown hairs. The rest of the body is also hairy, but they are less clearly visible. L. hirta's antennae, underside of body and legs are black. This species has eyes, large and round. Antennae are composed of eleven segments.

The elytra of the females are more extended backward than in the males and the female's abdomen looks from above wider than in the males. The male, in addition to its slimmer body, is distinguished from the females by their larger eyes and by the length of the last segment of the antennae, which is nearly twice the corresponding segment in the female. The hind wings are transparent.

The fully formed beetles can be seen from late May to September. The adult beetles feed on nectar and pollen. Females lay eggs in the soil, where they hatch after about eight days. The larvae live in the humus where they feed on decaying vegetables. After having overwintered, larvae pupate in early summer of the next year and a new generation of beetles will then develop.