6-5-2019 RIO SERPIS, GANDIA - BLUE CROWN PASSION FLOWER (Passiflora caerulea)

3-5-2019 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - FALSE BLISTER BEETLE (Chrysanthia reitteri)

Chrysanthia reitteri is a species of insects with 144 observations

3-5-2019 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - ROSE EVENING PRIMROSE (Oenothera rosea)

4-4-2018 PHINDA GAME RESERVE, SOUTH AFRICA - GOLDEN TAILED WOODPECKER (Campethera abingoni)

The Golden-tailed Woodpecker, known scientifically as Campethera abingoni, is a bird that captures the eye with its barred, greenish upper part plumage and streaked underparts. The golden-olive tail, while not markedly different from related species, adds a touch of elegance to its appearance. This bird measures between 20 to 21 centimeters from bill to tail tip, with the southern races being slightly heavier at around 70 grams compared to the northern race's 55 grams. Males are generally larger and heavier than females.

To distinguish between the sexes, one must look to the head markings. Males boast red and brown fore-crowns, while females display black with white spots. The malar stripes also differ, with males showing red and females a mottled black and white pattern. The iris of this species is typically dark red, though it can vary, and the mandibles are slate grey. The legs and feet are a greenish-olive hue. Juveniles can be identified by their heavy streaking on the throat and breast, barred bellies, mottled malar stripes, and a brown to brownish-grey iris.

The Golden-tailed Woodpecker is found in a variety of woodland habitats, including coastal forest, miombo, mopane, and acacia woodlands. It has a particular fondness for riparian woodland, especially in the drier regions of southern Africa. This bird tends to forage intensively in the lower to middle strata of trees within its territory, which can span 10 to 15 hectares.

This species is quite widespread in woodlands and forests south of the equator and is more localized to the north. Its range extends across numerous African countries, from Angola to Zimbabwe, including regions such as the Ivory Coast, Kenya, and South Africa.

The Golden-tailed Woodpecker is known for establishing large territories and may travel some distance between foraging sites. It is a solitary bird, often seen probing and gleaning for food.

The bird's vocal repertoire includes a single, strident call-note, often described as "waaa" or "weeea," typically emitted by the male. It also produces a long-range, repeated "yaooaak-yaaaaaak" call and is known to drum softly.

Breeding occurs in the early summer, with both sexes participating in the excavation of the nest, usually on the underside of a branch. They lay two to three glossy white eggs, which are incubated by both parents, with the male taking the night shift. The incubation period lasts about 13 days, and the chicks, fed regurgitated food, fledge after 22 to 25 days. Their nests are sometimes parasitized by various species of honeyguide.

The Mombasa Woodpecker, with its yellower plumage below and brighter golden-green upper parts, is a similar species. Other woodpeckers like the Cardinal, Bennett's, Reichenow's, and Nubian are browner above and more clearly barred, with only the Cardinal Woodpecker also displaying streaking below.

The Golden-tailed Woodpecker primarily feeds on arboreal ants and termites, but it also consumes millipedes, wood-boring larvae, and leaf-feeding moth larvae. It is often seen alongside the Cardinal Woodpecker, which tends to exploit thinner branches.

The IUCN Red List classifies the Golden-tailed Woodpecker as Least Concern, indicating that it currently faces no significant threats to its survival.

5-5-2019 ULLAL DE BALDOVI , VALENCIA - PAINTED LADY BUTTERFLY (Vanessa cardui)

Vanessa cardui is the most widespread of all butterfly species. It is commonly called the painted lady, or formerly in North America the cosmopolitan.

V. cardui occurs in any temperate zone, including mountains in the tropics. The species is resident only in warmer areas, but migrates in spring, and sometimes again in autumn. It migrates from North Africa and the Mediterranean to Britain and Europe in May and June, occasionally reaching Iceland, and from the Red Sea basin, via Israel and Cyprus, to Turkey in March and April. The occasional autumn migration made by V. cardui is likely for the inspection of resource changes; it consists of a round trip from Europe to Africa.

For decades, naturalists have debated whether the offspring of these immigrants ever make a southwards return migration. Research suggests that British painted ladies do undertake an autumn migration, making 14,500 km (9,000 mi) round trip from tropical Africa to the Arctic Circle in a series of steps by up to six successive generations. The Radar Entomology Unit at Rothamsted Research provided evidence that autumn migrations take place at high altitude, which explains why these migrations are seldom witnessed. In recent years, thanks to the activity of The Worldwide Painted Lady Migration citizen science project, led by the Barcelona-based Institute of Evolutionary Biology (Catalan: Institut de Biologia Evolutiva), the huge range of migration has begun to be revealed. For example, some butterflies migrated from Iceland to the Sahara desert, and even further south.

V. cardui is known for its distinct migratory behaviour. In California, they are usually seen flying from north to north-west. These migrations appear to be partially initiated by heavy winter rains in the desert where rainfall controls the growth of larval food plants. In March 2019, after heavy rain produced an abundance of vegetation in the deserts, Southern California saw these butterflies migrating by the millions across the state.

Similarly, heavier than usual rain during the 2018-2019 winter seems to have been the cause of the extraordinarily large migration observed in Israel at the end of March, estimated at a billion individual butterflies. Painted lady migration patterns are highly erratic and they do not migrate every year. Some evidence suggests that global climatic events, such as el Niño, may affect the migratory behaviour of the painted lady butterflies, causing large-scale migrations. The first noticeable wave of migration in eastern Ukraine was noted in the 20s of April 2019. From May 15, numbers began to grow and it was possible to observe hundreds of this species in the Kharkiv region of Ukraine, including in the city streets of Kharkiv.

5-5-2019 ULLAL DE BALDOVI , VALENCIA - CLOUDED YELLOW BUTTERFLY (Colias croceus)

The clouded yellow is a migratory, golden-yellow butterfly that visits areas like Britain and Ireland from North Africa and southern Europe, often appearing in large numbers during "Clouded Yellow years". It is a medium-sized butterfly with dark wing tips on the male, and its caterpillars feed on plants like clovers and bird's-foot trefoil. Clouded yellows can be found in various open habitats, especially those with their foodplants, and they are active from spring through autumn. 

Key facts

Appearance: A medium-sized, golden-yellow butterfly. Males have dark wing tips, while the female is a pale yellow and can be confused with other species.

Migration: It is a strong migratory species, arriving in waves from North Africa and southern Europe, and leaving again to head south.

Habitat: It is found in many open habitats, and is particularly fond of flowery places, chalk grasslands, and semi-improved meadows.

"Clouded Yellow years": The butterfly appears in small numbers most years, but occasionally mass immigrations occur, which are remembered as "Clouded Yellow years".

Larval food plants: The caterpillars feed on plants such as wild and cultivated clovers and common bird's-foot trefoil.

Life cycle: They appear from spring to autumn. Some individuals may overwinter as a caterpillar.

5-5-2019 ULLAL DE BALDOVI , VALENCIA - CABBAGE WHITE BUTTERFLY (Pieris rapae)

5-5-2019 ULLAL DE BALDOVI , VALENCIA - CHICORY (Cichorium intybus)

5-5-2019 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - ALOE VERA (Aloe vera)

Aloe vera (/ˈæloʊ(i) vɛrə, vɪər-/) is a succulent plant species of the genus Aloe. It is widely distributed, and is considered an invasive species in many world regions.

An evergreen perennial, it originates from the Arabian Peninsula, but grows wild in tropical, semi-tropical, and arid climates around the world. It is cultivated for commercial products, mainly as a topical treatment used over centuries. The species is attractive for decorative purposes, and succeeds indoors as a potted plant.

The leaves of Aloe vera contain significant amounts of the polysaccharide gel acemannan which can be used for a wide range of medical purposes. The skin contains aloin which is toxic. Products made from Aloe vera usually only use the gel.

5-5-2019 ULLAL DE BALDOVI, VALENCIA - EUROPEAN MOORHEN (Gallinula chloropus)

The common moorhen (Gallinula chloropus), also known as the waterhen or swamp chicken, is a bird species in the rail family (Rallidae). It is distributed across many parts of the Old World.

The common moorhen lives around well-vegetated marshes, ponds, canals and other wetlands. The species is not found in the polar regions or many tropical rainforests. Elsewhere it is likely the most common rail species, except for the Eurasian coot in some regions.

The closely related common gallinule of the New World has been recognized as a separate species by most authorities, starting with the American Ornithologists' Union and the International Ornithological Committee in 2011.

The moorhen is a distinctive species, with predominantly black and brown plumage, with the exception of a white under-tail, white streaks on the flanks, yellow legs and a red frontal shield. The bill is red with a yellow tip. The young are browner and lack the red shield. The frontal shield of the adult has a rounded top and fairly parallel sides; the tailward margin of the red unfeathered area is a smooth waving line. In the related common gallinule (Gallinula galeata) of the Americas, the frontal shield has a fairly straight top and is less wide towards the bill, giving a marked indentation to the back margin of the red area.

The common moorhen gives a wide range of gargling calls and will emit loud hisses when threatened. A midsized to large rail, it can range from 30 to 38 cm (12 to 15 in) in length and span 50 to 62 cm (20 to 24 in) across the wings. The body mass of this species can range from 192 to 500 g (6.8 to 17.6 oz).

This is a common breeding and resident bird in marsh environments, rivers, well-vegetated lakes and even in city parks. Populations in areas where the waters freeze, such as eastern Europe, will migrate to more temperate climates. In China, common moorhen populations are largely resident south of the Yangtze River, whilst northern populations migrate in the winter, therefore these populations show high genetic diversity.

This species will consume a wide variety of vegetable material and small aquatic creatures. They forage beside or in the water, sometimes walking on lilypads or upending in the water to feed. They are often secretive, but can become tame in some areas. Despite loss of habitat in parts of its range, the common moorhen remains plentiful and widespread.

5-5-2019 CREU DE LONGA, VALENCIA - LITTLE EGRET (Egretta garzetta)

The little egret (Egretta garzetta) is a species of small heron in the family Ardeidae. It is a white bird with a slender black beak, long black legs and, in the western race, yellow feet. As an aquatic bird, it feeds in shallow water and on land, consuming a variety of small creatures. It breeds colonially, often with other species of water birds, making a platform nest of sticks in a tree, bush or reed bed. A clutch of three to five bluish-green eggs is laid and incubated by both parents for about three weeks. The young fledge at about six weeks of age.

Its breeding distribution is in wetlands in warm temperate to tropical parts of Asia, Africa, Australia, and Europe. A successful colonist, its range has gradually expanded north, with stable and self-sustaining populations now present in the United Kingdom.

In warmer locations, most birds are permanent residents; northern populations, including many European birds, migrate to Africa and southern Asia to over-winter there. The birds may also wander north in late summer after the breeding season, and their tendency to disperse may have assisted in the recent expansion of the bird's range. At one time common in Western Europe, it was hunted extensively in the 19th century to provide plumes for the decoration of hats and became locally extinct in northwestern Europe and scarce in the south. Around 1950, conservation laws were introduced in southern Europe to protect the species and their numbers began to increase. By the beginning of the 21st century the bird was breeding again in France, the Netherlands, Ireland and Britain. Its range is continuing to expand westward, and the species has begun to colonise the New World; it was first seen in Barbados in 1954 and first bred there in 1994. The International Union for Conservation of Nature has assessed the bird's global conservation status as being of "least concern".

4-12-2015 JURONG, SINGAPORE - WHITE FRONTED PARROT (Amazona albifrons)

The white-fronted amazon (Amazona albifrons) also known as the white-fronted parrot, or spectacled amazon parrot, is a Central American species of parrot. They can imitate a range from 30 to 40 different sounds. Like other large parrots, the white-fronted parrot has a long potential life span, usually around 40 years.

The white-fronted amazon, at about 25 cm (9.8 in) long, is the smallest of the amazon parrots. This species is named for the bright white patch of feathers on its forehead, although the amount of white varies from individual to individual. They have mostly green plumage with some blue colouring on their outspread wings. They have bright red colouring around their eyes (in some individuals almost like spectacles) and blue colouring behind the patch of white on their foreheads. Together with the red-spectacled amazon and the yellow-lored amazon, it is the only amazon species in which adult males and females easily can be distinguished by external appearance (sexual dimorphism): Males have bright red feathers on their "shoulders" (alula), while females have green "shoulders". Juveniles have pale grey irises and less red on their face and the white area is replaced with a smaller yellowish area.

4-12-2015 JURONG, SINGAPORE - LILAC CROWNED PARROT (Amazona finschi)

The lilac-crowned amazon (Amazona finschi), also known as lilac-crowned parrot, Finsch's parrot or Finsch's amazon, is a parrot endemic to the Pacific slopes of Mexico. Also known as Finsch's amazon, it is characterised by green plumage, a maroon forehead, and a violet-blue crown and neck.

The binomial of this bird commemorates the German naturalist and explorer Otto Finsch.

In 2006, BirdLife International classified this species as vulnerable. In 2014, IUCN uplisted this species to Endangered.

The lilac-crowned amazon's endemic range spans along the pacific coast of Mexico, beginning in southeastern Sonora and southwestern Chihuahua down to southern Oaxaca. In Sinaloa and northern Nayarit the geographic range of the lilac-crowned parrot is above 375 meters of elevation and does not reach sea level until southern Nayarit, where it remains so through Jalisco and Oaxaca.

The lilac-crowned amazon's natural habitat in Mexico is often threatened. The decline in population size has been recorded in almost all of its natural habitat locations. Based on a collection of data and resident accounts, Amazona finschi population range has decreased by 20% due to habitat loss.

An increasingly growing population of approximately 100 individuals is found in Southern California, especially in the San Gabriel Valley and Orange Country. This increase could also be attributed to a more reliable source of measurement of population than in past years. These populations often are found in residential areas and occasionally in nesting groups with red-crowned parrots in native conifer forests or non-native captive plants.

4-5-2019 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - ARABIAN PEA (Bituminaria bituminosa)

Bituminaria bituminosa, the Arabian pea or pitch trefoil, is a perennial Mediterranean herb species in the genus Bituminaria.

The pterocarpans bitucarpin A and B can be isolated from the aerial parts of B. bituminosa.

It has several potential uses: (i) forage crop, (ii) Phytostabilization of heavy metal contaminated or degraded soils, (iii) Synthesis of furanocoumarins (psoralen, angelicin, xanthotoxin and bergapten), compounds of broad pharmaceutical interest.

It is easily recognizable by the characteristic smell of bitumen from its leaves. This strong tar-like characteristic aroma appears to be the result of a combination of several substances such as phenolics, sulphurated compounds, sesquiterpenes and probably short-chain hydrocarbon. Total polyphenols content was < 2% and the condensed tannins was <0.8% in a dry weight basis.

4-5-2019 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - CATALONIA WALL LIZARD (Podarcis liolepis)

Podarcis liolepis, the Columbretes wall lizard or Catalan wall lizard, is very similar to the other lizards in the genus Podarcis. This species was formerly described as a subspecies of the Iberian wall lizard, but has now been elevated to species status. These are slender lizards with long tails, narrow tapered heads and long thin toes, and stout legs. Colours are variable, although generally grey-brown. Often very subtle spots and stripes along the back and flanks can be seen and these can be more distinguished in the female. The underside is a much lighter cream or beige with sometimes a reddish tint. Adults grow 15–20 cm in length from the nose to tip of the tail. Body length can be a little as one third of the total body length, the tail making up the other two thirds.

Lifespan around 4–5 years. Sexual maturity is reached in their second year. Breeding takes place in spring after they wake from winter hibernation. 1-5 eggs are laid, each around 5x9mm, in cracks in rocks or under stones. During development the eggs swell and after 8 weeks when ready to hatch they can be 8x15mm in size. They hatch out around early July.

They are found in the north-east of the Iberian peninsula, including southern France in parts of the Pyrenees. They are not found above 3400m elevation.

With a lifespan of about 5 years they are an adaptable wall climbing species which can be found in a large number of habitats and frequently around houses and other buildings. Although being a Mediterranean species, they are able to inhabit mountain habitats with cold winters up to 2000 m altitude (Pyrenees, Sistema Ibérico, Sistema Bético).

The Catalonian Wall Lizard is a quite adaptable, well climbing species which can be found in various habitats and even frequently within human settlements. Although being a (sub-)Mediterranean species, it is able to inhabit mountain habitats with cold winters up to 2000 m altitude (Pyrenees, Sistema Ibérico, Sistema Bético).

Being such a "generalist", its distribution ranges from the French Rhône-Valley in the north to the Spanish Sierra Nevada in the south. It shows a great variability which has led to the description of several subspecies:

Podarcis liolepis cebennensis has been described for southern France. But geographic delimination towards the nominate subspecies is doubtful.

The Spanish Columbretes Archipelago is populated by the dark blotched subspecies atratus. However, this might be just an insular morph of the nominate subspecies.

Subspecies sebastiani has been described for the Basque Country area. Presumably, this may be just an ecotype of the nominate subspecies.

In the south of the range, additional - so far undescribed - colour morphs occur (see below).

With regard to this, some intra-specific taxonomic revision might be required.

Distribution of Podarcis liolepis with its currently recognized subspecies. For an overview of all Iberian Podarcis species see map at Podarcis hispanicus.

In north of the range, Podarcis liolepis has contact zones with Podarcis guadarramae. This species lacks of blue outer ventral scales which frequently occur in males of Podarcis liolepis. Podarcis liolepis may also co-occur with Podarcis muralis (e.g. Penyagolosa, E / Castellón) but it is smaller, more slender und usually shows a lighter colouration than the latter one.

4-5-2019 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - WAVE MOTH (Idaea eugeniata)

Idaea eugeniata is a moth in the family Geometridae. It is found in Italy, France, Andorra, Spain, Portugal[1] and North Africa.

The wingspan is 21–22 mm for males and 24–25 mm for females.

The larvae are polyphagous and have been recorded feeding on various herbaceous plants.

Subspecies

Idaea eugeniata eugeniata

Idaea eugeniata algeriaca (Culot, 1917)

4-4-2018 PHINDA GAME RESERVE, SOUTH AFRICA - COQUI FRANCOLIN (Peliperdix coqui)

The Coqui francolin, known scientifically as Campocolinus coqui, is a bird that belongs to the Phasianidae family. This species exhibits a striking appearance, with the adult male of the "Pale-bellied francolin" subspecies, P. c. hubbardi, showcasing its plumage in the Maasai Mara.

When attempting to identify the Coqui francolin, one should look for the characteristic features of the species, which include the coloration and patterns of the plumage. The males and females of the nominate race can be observed in eastern Botswana and Limpopo, respectively, providing opportunities to study their distinct markings.

The Coqui francolin is an adaptable bird, favoring a variety of environments. It thrives in grasslands, steppes, savannas, and dry scrublands, but is also comfortable in bright forests and grain fields. This bird is known to inhabit high plateaus, where it can be found at elevations of up to 2,000 meters.

This francolin has a broad range across Africa's southern half, with a presence in the western Sahel and Ethiopia. It holds the distinction of being the most widespread francolin on the African continent.

The Coqui francolin is predominantly a resident bird, meaning it does not typically migrate and is often found within the same geographical area throughout the year.

The IUCN Red List has classified the Coqui francolin as Least Concern, indicating that the species does not currently face any significant threats to its survival.

4-4-2018 PHINDA GAME RESERVE, SOUTH AFRICA - YELLOW BILLED KITE (Milvus migrans ssp. parasitus)

The Yellow-billed Kite, Milvus aegyptius, is a bird of prey that is part of the Accipitridae family. It is distinguished by its entirely yellow bill, a feature that sets it apart from its close relative, the Black Kite. The adult Yellow-billed Kite is a sight to behold with its striking bill, while the juveniles bear a closer resemblance to the Black Kites of similar age.

To identify the Yellow-billed Kite, look for the characteristic yellow bill which is a key distinguishing feature. Adults have this prominent yellow bill, while the juveniles may require a more practiced eye as they look similar to the Black Kite juveniles.

The Yellow-billed Kite is a versatile species, found in a variety of habitats. These range from the green expanses of parks within suburban areas to the more natural settings, although they are seldom seen in the arid regions of the Namib and Karoo.

There are two subspecies of the Yellow-billed Kite. M. a. parasitus is found throughout most of sub-Saharan Africa, including Madagascar, but avoids the Congo Basin. M. a. aegyptius resides in Egypt, southwest Arabia, and the Horn of Africa, migrating south during the non-breeding season.

The Yellow-billed Kite is primarily an intra-African breeding migrant, present in Southern Africa from July to March, and occasionally until May. It is a common species, often seen gracefully soaring in the skies or scavenging for food.

4-4-2018 PHINDA GAME RESERVE, SOUTH AFRICA - COLLARED SUNBIRD (Hedydipna collaris)

The collared sunbird (Hedydipna collaris) is a bird species of the family Nectariniidae. The sunbirds are a group of very small Old World passerine birds which feed largely on nectar, although they will also take insects, especially when feeding young. The collared sunbird is in fact mainly insectivorous.

Sunbird flight is fast and direct on their short wings. Most species can take nectar by hovering like a hummingbird, but usually perch to feed most of the time.

The collared sunbird is a common breeder across most of sub-Saharan Africa. Two or three eggs are laid in a suspended nest in a tree. It is a seasonal bird migrant within its range.

Collared sunbirds are tiny, only 9–10 cm (3.5–3.9 in) long. They have short thin down-curved bills and brush-tipped tubular tongues, both adaptations to nectar feeding.

The adult male has glossy green upperparts and head with a yellow belly and narrow purple breast band. The female is a duller green above and entirely yellow below.

This species inhabits forests near water.

20-4-2018 OKAVANGO DELTA, BOTSWANA - GIRAFFE (Giraffa giraffa 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.

At present[when?], 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.

20-4-2018 OKAVANGO DELTA, BOTSWANA - AFRICAN LEOPARD (FEMALE) (Panthera pardus pardus)

The African leopard (Panthera pardus pardus) is the nominate subspecies of the leopard, native to many countries in Africa. It is widely distributed in most of sub-Saharan Africa, but the historical range has been fragmented in the course of habitat conversion. Leopards have also been recorded in North Africa as well.

The African leopard exhibits great variation in coat color, depending on location and habitat. Coat colour varies from pale yellow to deep gold or tawny, and sometimes black, and is patterned with black rosettes while the head, lower limbs and belly are spotted with solid black. Male leopards are larger, averaging 58 kg (128 lb) with 90 kg (200 lb) being the maximum weight attained by a male. Females weigh about 37.5 kg (83 lb) on average.

The African leopard is sexually dimorphic; males are larger and heavier than females. Between 1996 and 2000, 11 adult leopards were radio-collared on Namibian farmlands. Males weighed 37.5 to 52.3 kg (83 to 115 lb) only, and females 24 to 33.5 kg (53 to 74 lb). The heaviest known leopard weighed about 96 kg (212 lb), and was recorded in South West Africa.

29-4-2019 CASTELL DE CASTELLS, ALICANTE - JERUSALEM SAGE (Phlomis fruticosa)

29-4-2019 CASTELL DE CASTELLS, ALICANTE - BERGERS CLOUDED YELLOW BUTTERFLY (Colias alfacariensis)

https://www.inaturalist.org/taxa/344763-Colias-alfacariensis

29-4-2019 CASTELL DE CASTELLS, ALICANTE - WHITE ASPHODEL (Asphodelus albus )

29-4-2019 CASTELL DE CASTELLS, ALICANTE - PERENNIAL FLAX (Linum perenne)

Linum perenne, the perennial flax, blue flax or lint, is a flowering plant in the family Linaceae, native to Europe, primarily in the Alps and locally in England. It has been introduced into North America, where it can be found on mountain ridges, wooded areas, and in sandy plain habitats of the sagebrush steppe, growing near sagebrush and rabbitbrush (Chrysothamnus).

It is a slender herbaceous perennial plant growing to 90 centimetres (3 ft) tall from a fairly woody root crown, with tough, unbranched stems, and many spirally arranged narrow lanceolate leaves 1–2.5 cm long. The flowers are blue, 2.5–5 cm (1–2 in) in diameter, and have five petals. The flowers will fall off if the stems are broken.

The English populations are sometimes distinguished as Linum perenne subsp. anglicum and high altitude populations in the Alps as Linum perenne subsp. alpinum. The similar western North American species Linum lewisii is sometimes treated as a subspecies of L. perenne.

Native Americans used the stems to make fishing line and nets.

2-5-2019 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - PORTLAND RIBBON WAVE MOTH (Idaea degeneraria)

2-5-2019 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - GREAT TIT (Parus major)

The great tit (Parus major) is a small passerine bird, easily recognized by its black head and neck, striking white cheeks, olive upperparts, and vibrant yellow underparts. This bird is the most widespread species in the genus Parus, found across Europe, the Middle East, Central Asia, and parts of North Africa.

Males are characterized by their bright plumage, with a black bib that extends down the belly, bordered by a lemon-yellow breast. Females and juveniles are similar but have duller coloration. The black line down the belly is also narrower and sometimes broken in these birds.

Great tits favor a variety of woodland habitats, including deciduous and mixed forests, forest edges, and even urban parks and gardens. They are also found in riverine woodlands and, in some regions, boreal taiga.

This species is resident throughout its range, which extends from the Iberian Peninsula to the Amur Valley, and from Scandinavia to the Middle East. It is generally non-migratory, except in harsh winters when it may move to more temperate areas.

Great tits are known for their intelligence and adaptability. They exhibit a range of foraging behaviors and can solve problems with insight learning. They are also cavity nesters and are monogamous, with both parents involved in raising the chicks.

The great tit has a repertoire of up to 40 calls and songs, with the male being particularly vocal. A common call resembles the phrase "teacher, teacher," which is used to proclaim territory.

Breeding occurs once a year, with the female laying up to 12 eggs in a cavity nest. The female incubates the eggs alone, but both parents feed the chicks. In most years, the pair will raise two broods.

In summer, the diet is predominantly insectivorous, while in winter, it expands to include seeds and berries. Great tits are adept at handling large food items and are known to visit bird feeders in urban areas.

4-4-2018 PHINDA GAME RESERVE, SOUTH AFRICA - WHITE EARED BARBET (Stactolaema leucotis)

The White-eared Barbet, known scientifically as Stactolaema leucotis, is a charming bird belonging to the Lybiidae family, which encompasses the African barbets. This species is adorned with a distinctive white ear patch that contrasts with its predominantly green plumage.

When observing the White-eared Barbet, look for its striking white ear coverts and the greenish hue of its body. The bird's appearance is further accentuated by a robust bill typical of barbets, which is well-suited for its fruit-eating habits.

The White-eared Barbet is known to inhabit a variety of woodland and forest habitats. It is often found in regions where fruiting trees are abundant, providing ample food sources for this species.

This species graces the landscapes of several African countries, including Eswatini, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, South Africa, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe. Its presence across these regions is a testament to its adaptability to different environments within the continent.

Observations of the White-eared Barbet reveal a bird that is partial to fruit, often seen indulging in this natural bounty. Its behavior is typical of barbets, engaging in activities that revolve around its diet and habitat.

7-4-2018 THORNYBUSH LODGE, SOUTH AFRICA - BEARDED SCRUB ROBIN (Cercotrichas quadrivirgata)

The bearded scrub robin, scientifically known as Cercotrichas quadrivirgata, is a modestly sized bird, with a length of 15–17 cm and a weight of approximately 20–31 g. Both sexes are similar in appearance, though the female is marginally smaller. The species is adorned with a dark olive-brown crown and upperparts, while the tail is a darker brown with white-tipped outer feathers. The wing coverts are a subtle grey-brown with olive-brown edges, and the flight feathers are dark brown with a distinctive white patch.

Upon closer inspection, one can observe the bearded scrub robin's facial features, which include a white supercilium, a white crescent below the eye, a white moustachial line, and a striking black malar stripe. Above the supercilia, black lines are also present. The eyes are a deep brown, and the lores are black. The throat and upper breast are white, transitioning to a rufous-brown to rufous color on the breast and neck-sides, with the belly and undertail coverts returning to white. The beak is black, and the legs are a pinkish-brown hue.

The bearded scrub robin is typically found in sand forests, riverine woodlands, scrubs, and evergreen forests. Occasionally, it may venture into gardens and reedbeds, though it generally avoids damp areas.

This species graces the landscapes of eastern and southern Africa, with sightings in Botswana, Eswatini, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Somalia, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Its distribution spans an impressive 5,390,000 km².

The bearded scrub robin is typically found in sand forests, riverine woodlands, scrubs, and evergreen forests. Occasionally, it may venture into gardens and reedbeds, though it generally avoids damp areas.

This species graces the landscapes of eastern and southern Africa, with sightings in Botswana, Eswatini, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Somalia, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Its distribution spans an impressive 5,390,000 km².

The bearded scrub robin is often seen in pairs or small groups. It is a territorial bird, with territories reaching up to 1 hectare. The bird's calls are varied, including a 'chuck', 'chrrrt', and a 'seeeep', while its song is a melodious series of whistles that may incorporate mimicry of other bird species. It forages on the ground, primarily consuming ants, termites, beetles, and other insects, and is also known to partake in sandbathing.

The bearded scrub robin's vocal repertoire includes a 'chuck', 'chrrrt', 'chek-chek-kwezzzzzzz', and a 'seeeep'. Its song is a series of melodious whistles, which may include mimicked calls from other bird species.

The mating system of the bearded scrub robin is monogamous. Breeding seasons vary by region, occurring from December to February in eastern Africa, September to January in Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, and September to December in South Africa. The nest is constructed from plant material, lichen, and hair, and typically contains two to three eggs, which may be white, pale green, or bluish with many spots. The female is responsible for incubating the eggs.

The diet of the bearded scrub robin consists mainly of ants, termites, beetles, and other insects. It forages on the ground and is also known to engage in sandbathing.

The bearded scrub robin is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. The population size is not precisely known, but the species benefits from a large range and appears to have a stable population trend without facing significant threats.

7-4-2018 THORNYBUSH LODGE, SOUTH AFRICA - BLACK BACKED PUFFBACK (Dryoscopus cubla)

The black-backed puffback (Dryoscopus cubla) is a species of passerine bird in the family Malaconotidae. They are common to fairly common sedentary bushshrikes in various wooded habitats in Africa south of the equator. They restlessly move about singly, in pairs or family groups, and generally frequent tree canopies. Like others of its genus, the males puff out the loose rump and lower back feathers in display, to assume a remarkable ball-like appearance. They draw attention to themselves by their varied repertoire of whistling, clicking and rasping sounds. Their specific name cubla, originated with Francois Levaillant, who derived it from a native southern African name, where the "c" is an onomatopoeic click sound. None of the other five puffback species occur in southern Africa.