Thursday, 27 June 2019
20-5-2019 BUMI HILLS, ZIMBABWE - WESTERN GREY HERON (Ardea cinerea ssp. cinerea)
The term "western grey heron" is a variation of Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea), a large, long-legged wading bird found in wetlands across much of Europe, Asia, and Africa. It has grey upperparts, a white head with black stripes leading to a crest, and a yellowish-pink bill. Known for its calm foraging behavior, it hunts by standing still and striking quickly at fish, amphibians, and small mammals.
Appearance
Plumage: Ashy-grey on the back and wings, with a greyish-white underside.
Head: White with a black stripe running from above the eye to the back of the head, where it forms a crest.
Neck: Light colored with dark streaks on the front.
Bill: Long, strong, and yellowish-pink, becoming brighter in the breeding season.
Legs: Long and brownish.
Size: Stands about 1 meter tall with a wingspan of around 1.75 meters.
Behavior and diet
Foraging: Stalks or stands motionless in the water, waiting for prey to come close.
Diet: Primarily fish, but also eats amphibians, small mammals, reptiles, and insects.
Hunting: Strikes at prey with its long beak like a harpoon.
Flight: Folds its neck into an "S" shape while flying.
Habitat and distribution
Habitat: Found in various wetlands, including rivers, lakes, ponds, and coastlines. It nests in colonies called heronries, often in trees near water.
Distribution: Its range includes Europe, Asia, and Africa. In some western populations, such as in parts of southern Africa, the population is increasing due to factors like irrigation and reservoirs.
Calls
Main call: A harsh, croaking "fraaank".
Other noises: A variety of guttural and raucous sounds are made, especially at breeding colonies.
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Wednesday, 26 June 2019
26-6-2019 CATAROJA, VALENCIA - LITTLE EGRET (Egretta garzetta)
The Little Egret, Egretta garzetta, is a dainty heron adorned in pure white plumage. It is characterized by a slender black beak, long black legs, and, notably in the western race, yellow feet. This elegant bird is a sight to behold with its graceful neck and poised stance.
Adult Little Egrets measure between 55–65 cm in length with a wingspan of 88–106 cm, and weigh 350–550 g. Their plumage is predominantly white, though some may exhibit bluish-grey coloration. Breeding adults boast ornate nape plumes reaching about 150 mm, along with distinctive feathers on the breast and elongated scapulars. The bill and lores are black, with greenish-grey skin at the base of the lower mandible and around the eye, which houses a yellow iris. Legs are black with contrasting yellow feet, though juveniles may have greenish-black legs and duller feet. The subspecies E. g. nigripes is distinguished by yellow skin between the bill and eye, and blackish feet.
The Little Egret frequents a variety of wetland habitats, from the shores of lakes and rivers to marshes and coastal regions. It is often found in open environments, such as mangroves, swamps, mudflats, and sandy beaches, as well as human-altered landscapes like rice fields.
The species has a broad breeding distribution across warm temperate to tropical regions of Asia, Africa, Australia, and Europe. Northern populations are migratory, wintering in Africa and southern Asia, while others remain as permanent residents in warmer areas.
Little Egrets are social yet territorial when feeding. They exhibit a range of foraging behaviors, from active chasing to patient ambush. Their movements are often in response to the presence of other animals, which may stir up prey.
The Little Egret's vocalizations include croaking and bubbling sounds at breeding colonies and a harsh alarm call when disturbed. These calls are similar to those of the Black-crowned Night Heron and the Cattle Egret.
Breeding colonies are often mixed with other water birds. Nests are platforms of sticks located in trees, shrubs, or reed beds. Clutches typically consist of three to five bluish-green eggs, incubated by both parents for about three weeks. The young fledge at approximately six weeks old.
The diet is diverse, including fish, amphibians, small reptiles, mammals, birds, crustaceans, molluscs, insects, spiders, and worms. The Little Egret employs various hunting techniques, both in water and on land, to capture its prey.
26-6-2019 CATAROJA, VALENCIA - ZITTING CISTICOLA (Cisticola juncidis)
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The Zitting Cisticola, or Streaked Fantail Warbler, is a diminutive bird, measuring a mere 10 to 12 centimeters in length. Its upper parts are adorned with a brown plumage, intricately streaked with black, while its underparts remain a modest whitish hue. The tail is a noteworthy feature, broad and tipped with white, and is frequently flicked—a behavior that has inspired one of the bird's colloquial names.
To identify the Zitting Cisticola, look for its rufous rump and the absence of gold on the collar. The tail, brownish with white tips, is another distinguishing characteristic. Males, during the breeding season, exhibit less crown streaking and more pronounced back markings than females, though differences between sexes are generally subtle.
The Zitting Cisticola favors grasslands as its primary habitat, often found in proximity to bodies of water.
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This species boasts a broad range, encompassing southern Europe, Africa (excluding deserts and rainforests), and southern Asia, extending to northern Australia. It is largely sedentary, though certain East Asian populations undertake migrations to warmer climes in winter.
These birds are predominantly insectivorous and may be observed in small flocks. The breeding season is timed with the rains, and in many regions, the Zitting Cisticola is known to produce two broods annually. Males display polygynous tendencies, though monogamous pairings are not uncommon. The male initiates nest construction within the grasses and performs a specialized display to attract females, who then complete the nest.
The male's breeding season is marked by a distinctive flight display, punctuated by a series of "zitting" calls reminiscent of the sound of scissors snipping.
Nests are artfully constructed with living leaves woven into a soft matrix of plant down, cobwebs, and grass. The structure is cup-shaped with an overhead canopy for camouflage. Females lay 3 to 6 eggs and are solely responsible for incubation, which lasts approximately 10 days. Multiple broods may be raised in a single season.
Their diet consists primarily of insects, which they forage for within their grassland habitats.
26-6-2019 CATARROJA, VALENCIA - SQUACCO HERON (Ardeola ralloides)
The Squacco Heron, Ardeola ralloides, is a diminutive member of the heron family, measuring a mere 44–47 cm in length, with a compact body of 20–23 cm and a wingspan stretching 80–92 cm. This species is adorned with a buff-brown back and, during the summer months, adults boast elongated neck feathers that add to their allure.
In the field, one may identify the Squacco Heron by its stocky build, abbreviated neck, and stout bill. Its back is cloaked in a buff-brown hue. When in flight, the heron undergoes a remarkable transformation, revealing a predominantly white plumage that contrasts starkly with its resting appearance.
The Squacco Heron favors marshy wetlands in temperate regions for its habitat, where the water is warm and inviting.
Originating from the Old World, the Squacco Heron breeds in the southern reaches of Europe and extends into the Greater Middle East. When not breeding, it migrates to winter in the African continent.
This species is migratory by nature, seeking the warmer climates of Africa to spend the winter. It is seldom seen north of its breeding grounds. The Squacco Heron has been observed as a vagrant in the Fernando de Noronha islands and, on rarer occasions, in mainland South America. It nests in modest colonies, often in the company of other wading birds, and constructs its nests from sticks on platforms in trees or shrubs.
The Squacco Heron selects freshwater locales across Europe and the Middle East to breed, later migrating southward to the Sub-Saharan African region. During the breeding season, they lay a clutch of three to four eggs.
Adept at foraging, the Squacco Heron feeds on a diet consisting of fish, frogs, and insects, making the most of its wetland environment.
The IUCN Red List currently classifies the Squacco Heron as Least Concern, indicating a stable population without immediate threats to its survival.
Non-breeding Squacco Herons share certain physical characteristics with other heron species such as the Indian Pond Heron and the Malagasy Pond Heron, including tawny plumage, lighter streaking, a smaller bill, and narrower wing tips.
26-6-2019 BONAIRE, VALENCIA - EUROPEAN BEE-EATER (Merops apiaster)
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The European bee-eater, Merops apiaster, is a bird of arresting beauty and grace. Its plumage is a kaleidoscope of warm hues, with brown and yellow adorning its upper parts, while the wings boast a vibrant green. The beak, a stark black, contrasts sharply with the bird's colorful attire. This slender avian can reach a length of 27–29 cm, including the elongated central tail feathers that add to its elegance. Both sexes are similar in appearance, though the female may sport greener shoulder feathers compared to the male's gold.
When identifying the European bee-eater, look for its distinctive coloration and sleek profile. The non-breeding plumage is more subdued, with a blue-green back and the absence of elongated central tail feathers. Juveniles resemble non-breeding adults but exhibit less variation in feather colors. During the moulting period, adults transition to breeding plumage, which is completed before their winter migration to Africa.
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These birds favor open country in warmer climates, often found in proximity to sandy banks and river shores where they can nest and forage with ease.
The European bee-eater breeds across southern and central Europe, parts of northern and southern Africa, and western Asia. While the southern African population remains resident year-round, others migrate to tropical Africa for the winter. Occasionally, they are seen north of their typical range, with sporadic breeding in northern Europe.
Gregarious by nature, European bee-eaters nest colonially in sandy banks, with communal tendencies extending to feeding and roosting. Courtship involves the male presenting the female with large prey items, a gesture of both affection and sustenance.
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The call of the European bee-eater is a melodious and liquid "prreee" or "prruup," a sound as mellow as the bird's demeanor.
Breeding season sees these birds tunneling into sandy banks to lay their spherical white eggs, with both parents sharing the duties of incubation and care. The eggs hatch after about three weeks, and the young are raised with communal diligence.
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While the European bee-eater is distinctive, it may be confused with other bee-eater species. However, its unique coloration and tail feathers generally set it apart.
True to their name, European bee-eaters feast primarily on bees, wasps, and hornets. They exhibit remarkable skill in catching these insects mid-flight and have a unique method of removing the sting before consumption. Their diet is predominantly composed of Hymenoptera, particularly the European honey bee.
The IUCN lists the European bee-eater as Least Concern, indicating a stable population without immediate threats to its survival. However, their interactions with bee populations and apiaries are of interest to conservationists and apiculturists alike.
Tuesday, 25 June 2019
19-5-2019 BUMI HILLS, ZIMBABWE - SCARLET CHESTED SUNBIRD (MALE) (Chalcomitra senegalensis)
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The Scarlet-chested Sunbird is a medium-sized bird found in sub-Saharan Africa, easily identified by the male's striking scarlet chest and iridescent green crown and throat. It feeds on nectar and insects, using its long, curved bill to extract food from flowers, and can often be seen hovering while it forages. Females are duller, dark gray-brown with streaked underparts. Both sexes are known for the male's loud "tjip" and "teeeuw" calls.
Appearance and size
Male: Glossy velvet-black with a bright scarlet chest, iridescent green crown, throat, and sometimes a green "moustache" stripe below the eyes.
Female: Dark gray-brown with a heavily streaked or mottled underparts; lacks the bright chest and iridescent green head of the male.
Size: About 13–15 cm (5.1–5.9 in) long. Males weigh between 7.5 and 17.2 grams, while females weigh slightly less.
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Diet and foraging
Primary diet: Nectar from flowering plants, such as aloes.
Supplemental diet: Insects and spiders.
Foraging behavior: Often hovers or perches to feed, using its long, decurved bill to reach into flowers.
Habitat and range
Habitat: A variety of dry and moist savanna, parkland, and gardens.
Range: Sub-Saharan Africa.
Elevation: Can be found at elevations of up to 2,400 meters (7,900 ft).
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Nesting and reproduction
Nest builder: The female builds the nest, a bulky dome-shaped structure made from materials like grass, spider web, and leaves.
Nest placement: Nests are suspended from branches, sometimes near wasp nests for added protection.
Eggs: Lays 1-3 eggs, which are incubated by the female for about 13-15 days.
Chicks: Both parents feed the chicks. Young birds will leave the nest after about 15-20 days.
Calls
Male calls: A loud series of "tjip" and "teeeuw" notes.
18-5-2019 BUMI HILLS, ZIMBABWE - SOUTHERN SCARLET CHESTED SUNBIRD (FEMALE) (Chalcomitra senegalensis)
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The scarlet-chested sunbird (Chalcomitra senegalensis) is a species of bird in the family Nectariniidae. It is found in many areas of Sub-Saharan Africa, and from South Sudan to South Africa.
It is found in Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Eswatini, Ivory Coast, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mozambique, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Sudan, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
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The scarlet-chested sunbird is similar to Hunter's sunbird in appearance, with adult males having a characteristic red–scarlet coloured breast and an iridescent green patch on top of its head. The female is dark brown with no supercilium. It inhabits woodland and gardens, at elevations of up to 2,400 metres (7,900 ft). The bird is around 13–15 centimetres (5.1–5.9 in) in length, with males having a weight of 7.5–17.2 grams (0.26–0.61 oz) and females weighing 6.8–15.3 grams (0.24–0.54 oz).
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In 1760, the French zoologist Mathurin Jacques Brisson included a description of the scarlet-chested sunbird in his Ornithologie based on a specimen collected in Senegal. He used the French name Le grimpereau violet du Sénégal and the Latin Certhia Senegalensis Violacea. Although Brisson coined Latin names, these do not conform to the binomial system and are not recognised by the International Commission on Zoological Nomenclature. When the Swedish naturalist Carl Linnaeus updated his Systema Naturae for the twelfth edition in 1766, he added 240 species that had been previously described by Brisson. One of these was the scarlet-chested sunbird. Linnaeus included a brief description, coined the binomial name Certhia senegalensis and cited Brisson's work.[6] This species is now placed in the genus Chalcomitra that was introduced by the German naturalist Ludwig Reichenbach in 1853. Six subspecies are recognised.
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19-5-2019 BUMI HILLS, ZIMBABWE - GLOSSY IBIS (Plegadis falcinellus)
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The Glossy Ibis, Plegadis falcinellus, is a wading bird of the family Threskiornithidae, known for its striking, sickle-shaped bill. This mid-sized ibis measures 48–66 cm in length, with a wingspan of 80–105 cm. Breeding adults boast reddish-brown bodies and iridescent bottle-green wings, while non-breeders and juveniles display a more subdued coloration. The species is characterized by a brownish bill, dark facial skin with blue-gray to cobalt blue borders, and red-brown legs. In flight, the ibis extends its neck and exhibits a graceful V formation.
The Glossy Ibis favors freshwater or brackish wetlands with tall, dense emergent vegetation such as reeds, papyrus, or rushes, and low trees or bushes. It can also be found in lagoons, floodplains, wet meadows, swamps, reservoirs, sewage ponds, rice paddies, and irrigated farmland. Coastal habitats like estuaries and salt marshes are less common for this species.
This ibis is the most widespread of its kind, breeding in warm regions across Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and the Americas. It is migratory, with European birds wintering in Africa and North American birds migrating southward. The species has been expanding its range, with increasing numbers in Europe and successful breeding in Britain as of 2022.
Monday, 24 June 2019
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