20-3-2019 ALBUFERA, VALENCIA - SMALL WHITE BUTTERFLY (Pieris rapae)

Pieris rapae is a small- to medium-sized butterfly species of the whites-and-yellows family Pieridae. It is known in Europe as the small white, in North America as the cabbage white or cabbage butterfly, on several continents as the small cabbage white, and in New Zealand as the white butterfly. The butterfly is recognizable by its white color with small black dots on its wings, and it can be distinguished from P. brassicae by the latter's larger size and black band at the tip of the forewings.

The caterpillar of this species, often referred to as the "imported cabbageworm", is a pest to crucifer crops such as cabbage, kale, bok choy and broccoli. Pieris rapae is widespread in Europe and Asia; it is believed to have originated in the Eastern Mediterranean region of Europe, and to have spread across Eurasia thanks to the diversification of brassicaceous crops and the development of human trade routes. Over the past two centuries, it spread to North Africa (about 1800), North America (1860s), Hawaii (1897), New Zealand (1930), and Australia (1937), as a result of accidental introductions.

20-3-2019 ALBUFERA, VALENCIA - WHITE MUSTARD (Sinapis alba)

White mustard (Sinapis alba), also called yellow mustard, is an annual plant of the cabbage family. It is sometimes also referred to as Brassica alba or B. hirta. It is native to the Mediterranean region, Europe and Asia Tropical, but is now widespread worldwide. Grown for its seeds, it is used to make the condiment mustard, as a fodder crop, or as a green manure.

White mustard is an annual, growing to 70 centimetres (28 in) high with stalkless pinnate leaves, similar to Sinapis arvensis. The yellow flowers of S. alba contain 4 petals per flower and 4 alternating sepals. In addition, their pods are approximately 2.0–4.2 cm long.

Sinapis alba is a long day plant, which means they flower when the amount of light received exceeds their critical photoperiod. Pollen from S. alba is able to be dispersed through wind and insect pollinators, such as wild bees, bumblebees, and flower flies. Additionally, white mustard is an obligate outcrossing species, that is, white mustard is self-incompatible and cannot self-fertilize. White mustard is one of the species originally described and named by Carl Linnaeus in his 1753 book Species Plantarum using the name Sinapis alba. This name continues to be accepted placing it in genus Sinapis in the family Brassicaceae.

In English Sinapis alba is known by the common name white mustard, but is also called yellow mustard.

Most common in Europe, North Africa, the Middle East and Central Asia, it can be found worldwide. It has been found as far north as Greenland, and naturalized throughout the British Isles.

The yellow flowers of the plant produce glabrous or sparsely bristled seed pods. Each fruit (silique) contains roughly a half dozen seeds. The plants are harvested for their seeds just prior to the seed pods becoming ripe and bursting open (dehiscing).

White mustard seeds are hard spheroid seeds, usually around 1.0 to 1.5 mm (0.039 to 0.059 in) in diameter, with a color ranging from beige or yellow to light brown. They can be used whole for pickling or toasted for use in dishes. When ground and mixed with other ingredients, a paste or more standard condiment can be produced. Sinapis alba is used to make the commonplace yellow table mustard, with additional yellow coloring provided by turmeric in some formulations.

19-3-2019 ALBUFERA, VALENCIA - LITTLE RINGED PLOVER (Charadrius dubius)

The Little Ringed Plover, Charadrius dubius, presents itself as a small and sprightly bird. Its plumage is a subtle blend of grey-brown on the back and wings, while its underparts remain a crisp white. A distinctive black neckband adorns its white breast, complementing the brown cap atop its head. A striking black mask encircles the eyes, set against a white forehead, and is accentuated by a clear yellow eye-ring—a feature unique to this species. Its bill is short and dark, and the legs exhibit a flesh-coloured hue, with all toes connected by webbing.

To distinguish the Little Ringed Plover from its close relatives, one should note the colour of its legs, the pattern on its head, and the presence of the yellow eye-ring. These characteristics set it apart from the larger Ringed Plover, which lacks these specific traits.

The preferred breeding grounds of the Little Ringed Plover are open gravel areas adjacent to freshwater sources. These include gravel pits, river edges, and islands, where vegetation is sparse or non-existent.

This bird boasts a wide range across the Palearctic, extending to northwestern Africa. It is a migratory species, retreating to the warmer climates of Africa during the winter months.

The Little Ringed Plover is known for its foraging habits on muddy terrains, where it primarily relies on sight to locate its prey. It is a ground-nesting bird, with both males and females sharing the responsibility of incubating the eggs.

The call of the Little Ringed Plover is a distinctive sound, contributing to the rich tapestry of bird songs in its habitat.

During the breeding season, these birds exhibit a fascinating mating ritual where the male bird may be observed tapping the cloaca of the female.

While similar in appearance to the larger Ringed Plover, the Little Ringed Plover can be differentiated by its leg colour, head pattern, and the conspicuous yellow eye-ring.

The diet of the Little Ringed Plover consists of insects and worms, which it diligently searches for in muddy areas.

The Little Ringed Plover is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN. It is also protected under the Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds (AEWA), ensuring international efforts are made to safeguard its future.

18-3-2019 BARX, VALENCIA - TUBEROUS MEADOW RUE (Thalictrum tuberosum)

A clump-forming, tuberous perennial with blue-green leaves divided into ovate or lobed leaflets and, from midsummer into autumn, wiry stems bearing white flowers with prominent, bright yellow stamens.

Thalictrum can be rhizomatous or tuberous perennials with ternately or pinnately divided, often attractive foliage, and panicles or racemes of small flowers with showy stamens and sometimes large colourful petal-like sepals.

28-11-2016 SINGAPORE - MUSA ORNATA (Family Musaceae)

Musa ornata, the flowering banana, is one of more than 50 species of banana in the genus Musa of the family Musaceae. Most of these species are large tropical evergreen perennials, mainly from lowland areas with high temperature and humidity. Musa ornata originated in southeast Asia, and is cultivated for its commercial and ornamental value. The fruit is attractive but tends to be inedible.

Musa ornata belongs to the Musa section Rhodochlamys. Rhodochlamys is one of the four sections into which the genus Musa is divided (the others being Australimusa, Callimusa and Eumusa, which is sometimes called Musa). As a member of Rhodochlamys, M. ornata has a basic chromosome number of 2n = 22 compared with 2n = 20 of the Australimusa and Callimusa. Plants of this section are known for their brightly colored bracts.

The true M. ornata is found in India and is a small species. From its home in India it reached Central and South America early in the 19th century where it became naturalized. M. ornata is not an especially variable plant in itself but it hybridizes freely with other species. The result is that there are a number of hybrids derived from it in the tropical regions of America.

Plants grow to a height of 5 to 10 ft (1.5 to 3.0 m). The plants have green foliage with pink tones throughout. The leaves can grow to be 6 ft (1.8 m) long, 14 inches (360 mm) wide and can be used for tropical cut flower arrangements. It produces pink flowers and small, dark pink or crimson fruit. The fruit type is a banana that is seeded and inedible.

Musa ornata has a yellow-orange inflorescence whose male and female flowers both tend to be 3-5 per bract in a single row, varying up to about 7 per cluster. The anthers of the male flowers are purple while the female style is green.

Musa ornata is native to south-east Asia and commonly found in Bangladesh, Burma, and India. This species is widely distributed throughout tropical regions but it is often misnamed. The plant is relatively tolerant and was found in Mauritius (off the coast of Madagascar) before 1805 and must have begun to travel several years before it was botanically described in 1824 on Indian banana plantations. Numerous parts of Mexico have also naturalized the plant, although the seedlings are often offered commercially under a different name (Musa violacea).

28-11-2016 JURONG, SINGAPORE - VITELLINE MASKED WEAVER (Ploceus vitellinus)

The vitelline masked weaver (Ploceus vitellinus) is a species of bird in the family Ploceidae. It is found in western, central and eastern Africa.

A fairly small weaver with a chunky bill. Always shows a red eye and a dark bill. Breeding male is distinctive, with bright yellow overall plumage, a black mask, and a variable chestnut wash on the breast and crown. Females, non-breeding males, and juveniles are much duller, but show streaking on the back and pale underparts. Found in a variety of savanna habitats, often in flocks. Breeding male is similar to several other weavers, but can be separated by the chestnut rather than black crown and the red eye. Plumages other than the breeding male’s can be hard to separate from other weavers, but can be cautiously identified by the reddish eye and overall size and shape. Vocalizations are typical of weavers: “chek” notes and a sizzling “radio static” song.

17-3-2019 PEGO MARJAL, ALICANTE - SEVEN SPOTTED LADYBIRD (Coccinella septempunctata)

Coccinella septempunctata, the seven-spot ladybird (or, in North America, seven-spotted ladybug or "C-7", is a carnivorous beetle native to the Old World and is the most common ladybird in Europe. The beetle is also found in North America, Central and Eastern Asia and regions with a temperate climate. Its elytra are of a red colour, but each punctuated with three black spots, with one further spot being spread over the junction of the two, making a total of seven spots, from which the species derives both its common and scientific names (from the Latin septem = "seven" and punctus = "spot").

Although C. septempunctata larvae and adults mainly eat aphids, they also feed on Thysanoptera, Aleyrodidae, on the larvae of Psyllidae and Cicadellidae, and on eggs and larvae of some beetles and butterflies. They breed one or two generations per year. Adults overwinter in ground litter in parks, gardens and forest edges and under tree bark and rocks.

C. septempunctata has a broad ecological range, generally living wherever there are aphids for it to eat. This includes, amongst other biotopes, meadows, fields, Pontic–Caspian steppe, parkland, gardens, Western European broadleaf forests and mixed forests.

In the United Kingdom, there are fears that the seven-spot ladybird is being outcompeted for food by the harlequin ladybird.

17-3-2019 PEGO MARJAL, ALICANTE - 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. 

17-3-2019 PEGO MARJAL, ALICANTE - YELLOW IRIS (Iris pseudacorus)

Iris pseudacorus, the yellow flag, yellow iris, or water flag, is a species of flowering plant in the family Iridaceae. It is native to Europe, western Asia and northwest Africa. Its specific epithet pseudacorus means "false acorus", referring to the similarity of its leaves to those of Acorus calamus (sweet flag), as they have a prominently veined mid-rib and sword-like shape. However, the two plants are not closely related.

This herbaceous flowering perennial plant grows to 100–150 cm (39–59 in), or a rare 2 m (6 ft 7 in) tall, with erect leaves up to 90 cm (35 in) long and 3 cm (1.2 in) broad. The flowers are bright yellow, 7–10 cm (2.8–3.9 in) across, with the typical iris form. The fruit is a dry capsule 4–7 cm (1.6–2.8 in) long, containing numerous pale brown seeds.

I. pseudacorus grows best in very wet conditions, and is common in wetlands, where it tolerates submersion, low pH, and anoxic soils. The plant spreads quickly, by both rhizome and water-dispersed seed. It fills a similar niche to that of Typha and often grows with it, though usually in shallower water. While it is primarily an aquatic or marginal plant, the rhizomes can survive prolonged dry conditions.

Large I. pseudacorus stands in western Scotland form a very important feeding and breeding habitat for the endangered corncrake.

I. pseudacorus is one of two iris species native to the United Kingdom, the other being Iris foetidissima (stinking iris).

17-3-2019 PEGO MARJAL, ALICANTE - GLOSSY IBIS (Plegadis falcinellus)

The glossy ibis (Plegadis falcinellus) is a water bird in the order Pelecaniformes and the ibis and spoonbill family Threskiornithidae. The scientific name derives from Ancient Greek plegados and Latin, falcis, both meaning "sickle" and referring to the distinctive shape of the bill.

This is the most widespread ibis species, breeding in scattered sites in warm regions of Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and the Atlantic and Caribbean regions of the Americas. It is thought to have originated in the Old World and spread naturally from Africa to northern South America in the 19th century, from where it spread to North America. The glossy ibis was first documented in the New World in 1817 (New Jersey). Audubon saw the species just once in Florida in 1832. It expanded its range substantially northwards in the 1940s and to the west in the 1980s. 

This species is migratory; most European birds winter in Africa, and in North America birds from north of the Carolinas winter farther south. Though generally suspected to be a migratory species in India, the glossy ibis is resident in western India. Birds from other populations may disperse widely outside the breeding season. It is increasing in Europe. It disappeared as a regular breeding bird in Spain in the early 20th century, but re-established itself in 1993 and has since rapidly increased with thousands of pairs in several colonies. It has also established rapidly increasing breeding colonies in France, a country with very few breeding records before the 2000s. An increasing number of non-breeding visitors are seen in northwestern Europe, a region where glossy ibis records historically were very rare. For example, there appears to be a growing trend for birds to winter in Britain and Ireland, with at least 22 sightings in 2010. In 2014, a pair attempted to breed in Lincolnshire, the first such attempt in Britain. The first successful breeding in Britain was a pair which fledged one young in Cambridgeshire in 2022. A few birds now spend most summers in Ireland, but there is no present evidence of breeding.

In New Zealand, a few birds arrive there annually, mostly in the month of July; recently a pair bred amongst a colony of royal spoonbill. Glossy ibis have been a breeding species in Australia since the 1930s. In India, they are now a breeding species with colonies now seen in agricultural areas, in forested areas with bamboo thickets and breeding alongside other colonially nesting waterbirds. Year-long studies have also shown glossy ibises to be foraging in agricultural wetlands and flooded farmlands in western India.

Glossy ibises undertake dispersal movements after breeding and are highly nomadic. The more northerly populations are fully migratory and travel on a broad front, for example across the Sahara Desert. Glossy ibis ringed in the Black Sea seem to prefer the Sahel and West Africa to winter, those ringed in the Caspian Sea have been found to move to East Africa, the Arabian peninsula and as far east as Pakistan and India. Numbers of glossy ibis in western India varied dramatically seasonally with the highest numbers being seen in the winter and summers, and drastically declining in the monsoon likely indicating local movements to a suitable area to breed. Populations in temperate regions breed during the local spring, while tropical populations nest to coincide with the rainy season. Nesting is often in mixed-species colonies. When not nesting, flocks of over 100 individuals may occur on migration, and during the winter or dry seasons the species is usually found foraging in small flocks. Glossy ibises often roost communally at night in large flocks, with other species, occasionally in trees which can be some distance from wetland feeding areas.

Glossy ibises feed in very shallow water and nest in freshwater or brackish wetlands with tall dense stands of emergent vegetation such as reeds, papyrus (or rushes) and low trees or bushes. They show a preference for marshes at the margins of lakes and rivers but can also be found at lagoons, flood-plains, wet meadows, swamps, reservoirs, sewage ponds, paddies and irrigated farmland. When using farmlands in western India, glossy ibis exhibited strong scale-dependent use of the landscape seasonally. They preferred using areas with >200 ha of wetlands during the summer, and using areas that had intermediate amounts of wetlands (50-100 ha) in the other seasons, though did not necessarily forage in the wetlands. It is less commonly found in coastal locations such as estuaries, deltas, salt marshes and coastal lagoons. Preferred roosting sites are normally in large trees which may be distant from the feeding areas. When human persecution is absent they roost in cities, even using trees beside busy highways and other roads.

The nest is usually a platform of twigs and vegetation positioned at least 1 m (3.3 ft) above water, sometimes up to 7 m (23 ft) high, in dense stands of emergent vegetation, low trees, or bushes. 3 to 4 eggs (occasionally 5) are laid, and are incubated by both male and female birds for between 20 and 23 days. The young can leave the nest after about 7 days, but the parents continue to feed them for another 6 or 7 weeks. The young fledge in about 28 days.

The diet of the glossy ibis is variable according to the season and is very dependent on what is available. Prey includes adult and larval insects such as aquatic beetles, dragonflies, damselflies, grasshoppers, crickets, flies and caddisflies, Annelida including leeches, molluscs (e.g. snails and mussels), crustaceans (e.g. crabs and crayfish) and occasionally fish, amphibians, lizards, small snakes and nestling birds.

17-3-2019 PEGO MARJAL, ALICANTE - FANTAIL WARBLER (Cisticola juncidis)

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.

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.

The Zitting Cisticola can be differentiated from the Golden-headed Cisticola (Cisticola exilis) by the absence of a nuchal collar.

Their diet consists primarily of insects, which they forage for within their grassland habitats.

The Zitting Cisticola is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating a stable population without immediate threats to its survival.

17-3-2019 ADOR CAMPO, VALENCIA - IBERIAN GREEN FROG (Pelophylax perezi)

The Perez's frog (Pelophylax perezi), also known as Iberian waterfrog, Iberian green frog or Coruna frog, is a species of frog in the family Ranidae. It is native to southern France, Portugal, Spain, and has been introduced to the Canary and Balearic Islands, Madeira, the United Kingdom, and the Azores. In the Iberian Peninsula it is widespread and common.

Its natural habitats are temperate forests, temperate shrubland, Mediterranean-type shrubby vegetation, rivers, intermittent rivers, swamps, freshwater lakes, intermittent freshwater lakes, freshwater marshes, intermittent freshwater marshes, sandy shores, arable land, and urban areas. It is not considered threatened by the IUCN. A medium-sized, stout frog; snout-vent length is usually from 40 to 70 mm, but sometimes is longer than 10 cm (Docampo and Milagrosa-Vega 1988; González de la Vega 1988). The head is as long as wide, with prominent eyes located in dorsal position very close to each other. The tympanum is well marked, about 1/2 to 3/4 the eye diameter (Salvador and García-París 2001). Toes have well developed webbing. Skin is either smooth or slightly rough, with well-formed dorsolateral folds.

The dorsal coloration is very variable, usually green but also brown or grayish to dark gray. They usually show a vertebral stripe, mostly yellow or green. Two irregular rows of dark, rectangular spots are present on both sides of the vertebral stripe. These spots are also present on the rear limbs, sometimes forming a banded pattern. Some individuals lack both the spots and the vertebral stripe. Ventrally they are white with a variable number of dark spots. Males are smaller than females and have stronger forelimbs. They have gray vocal sacs than can be appreciated even when they are not in use.

Tadpoles grow up to 111 mm total length (Salvador 1985), but usually measure between 60-70 mm (Barbadillo et al. 1999). The spiracle is sinistral and the anus open on the right side of the base of the tail. Marginal papillae are absent from the upper side of the mouth. Denticles are arranged in a variable number of single rows (Llorente et al. 1994), but the most common formula is 2(2)/3. The dorsal fin is low, starting at the level of the spiracle. The tip of the tail is pointed. Ground coloration is green or light brown, with small, dark dots. These dots are denser and larger in the tail fin. The tail presents a typical pattern with three longitudinal dark stripes. The ventral coloration is white.

16-3-2019 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - HOUSE SPARROW (MALE) (Passer domesticus)

The house sparrow (Passer domesticus) is a member of the sparrow family Passeridae. This small bird typically measures around 16 cm (6.3 in) in length and weighs between 24–39.5 g (0.85–1.39 oz). The species exhibits sexual dimorphism, with females and young birds displaying pale brown and grey plumage, while males are characterized by more vibrant black, white, and brown markings.

Males can be identified by their bright black, white, and brown markings, with a distinctive black bib, white cheeks, and a grey crown. Females lack the striking head patterns of males and are predominantly buffish with softer coloration. Juveniles resemble adult females but are generally paler with less defined markings.

The house sparrow is highly adaptable and can thrive in both urban and rural environments. It is commonly found in close association with human habitation and avoids dense forests, grasslands, polar regions, and deserts far from human development.

Native to Europe, the Mediterranean Basin, and much of Asia, the house sparrow has been introduced to various regions worldwide, including parts of Australasia, Africa, and the Americas, making it one of the most widely distributed wild birds.

16-3-2019 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - HOUSE SPARROW (FEMALE) (Passer domesticus)

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

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

16-3-2019 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - EURASIAN COLLARED DOVE (Streptopelia decaocto)

The Eurasian collared dove, also known as the collared dove or Turkish dove (Streptopelia decaocto), is a bird of modest size, presenting a grey-buff to pinkish-grey plumage that is slightly darker above than below. It is recognized by its distinctive black half-collar edged with white on its nape, from which it derives its name. The species exhibits a blue-grey underwing patch and a tail that is grey-buff above, with dark grey and white-tipped feathers below. The sexes appear similar, with juveniles displaying a less developed collar and a brown iris.

To identify the Eurasian collared dove, look for its medium size, slimmer and longer-tailed body compared to a rock pigeon, and a shorter stature than the wood pigeon. The red legs, black bill, and red iris surrounded by a small area of bare skin, which may appear white or yellow, are key features. The bird's song, a three-part cooing "goo-GOO-goo," and a harsh screeching call are also distinctive identifiers.

This species is often found in proximity to human habitation, particularly where food is plentiful and trees are available for nesting. It is not uncommon to see these doves frequenting bird tables and farms.

Originally from warm temperate and subtropical Asia, the Eurasian collared dove has expanded its range dramatically, colonizing colder countries and becoming a permanent resident in many. Its range now includes Europe, North America, and the Caribbean.

15-3-2019 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - LEAF FOOTED BUG (Bothrostethus annulipes)

Bothrostethus annulipes is a species of bug in the Coreidae family, subfamily Pseudophloeinae.

This species can be found in Europe. It is non present in the Britain Islands nor in the Nordic countries.

Bothrostethus annulipes can reach a length of about 9–10 millimetres (0.35–0.39 in). Body is black-brown. Connexivum is yellow spotted.[3] The margin of the pronotum is finely denticulate. The humeral tooth is very obvious and curved to the outside. A black median notch is present on the front of the pronotum. The apex of the scutellum is clear, almost white. The tibias are yellow, darker towards the end.

This species is rather similar to Centrocoris spiniger, Centrocoris variegatus and Gonocerus insidiator.

These herbivore insects are trophically associated with leguminous plants. They mainly feed on Bromus species. Adult males have the unusual behaviour of feeding on excrements.

24-3-2019 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - EUROPEAN YELLOW HAIRED SUN FLY (Myathropa florea)

Myathropa florea, sometimes referred to as the Batman hoverfly, is a very common European and North African species of hoverfly. Adults may be seen on flowers from May to September. It is of a similar size to the common drone fly (Eristalis tenax), but Myathropa are generally more yellow, with two light bands to the thorax, interrupted with a black central smudge. In museum specimens, any yellow colour soon fades to brown after death. Like most species in the tribe Eristalini, Myathropa are rather variable in size, shape and colour.

The species has a wing length of 7–12 mm (0.3–0.5 in). Thorax dorsum with a characteristic "skull" black pattern. Abdomen black with yellow patterning. Legs pale and black. The larvae of the species were described and figured by Graham E. Rotheray in 1993. 

Myathropa florea is found in the Palearctic from Fennoscandia south to Iberia and the Mediterranean basin, and from Ireland eastwards across Europe and Russia. It has been adventive on the Pacific coast of North America since 2005.

They occur in deciduous forests, fen carr, farmland with trees, parks, and gardens.

They visit many different species of flowers, including umbellifers, Castanea, Convolvulus, Crataegus, Chaerophyllum, Euonymus, Filipendula, Hedera, Rhododendron, Rubus, Sambucus, Solidago, Sorbus, and Viburnum opulus.

The flight period is May to October. Larvae feed on bacteria in organic waterlogged detritus, often in the shallow rot holes of tree stumps.

15-3-2019 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - SOUTHERN BROAD BELLIED BUG BUG (Eurygaster austriaca)

The Southern Broad-bellied Bug, Eurygaster austriaca, is a shield bug (family Scutelleridae) found in the Palaearctic Region. This insect is a broad, oval-shaped bug, about 12 mm long, with a chitinous scutellum that covers its entire abdomen and wings. It is known for feeding on cereal crops and other grasses. 

 

Family: Scutelleridae (shield bugs or jewel bugs)

Genus: Eurygaster

 

Broad and oval body shape.

About 12 mm (0.5 inches) in length.

Chitinous, broad scutellum that covers the wings and abdomen.

Color can vary, but is often light brown.

Widely distributed throughout the Palaearctic Region, including parts of Europe and Asia.

Life Cycle:

Adults overwinter in forests.

Females lay eggs in batches of seven eggs.

Nymphs molt five times while feeding on host plants. 

 

Feeding: Feeds on cereal crops such as wheat, barley, and oats, as well as other perennial grasses.

Mating: Mating and egg-laying occur in the spring and early summer.

Migration: Adults are capable of significant migrations.

Impact: It is a pest that can have high damaging activity, especially in forest-steppe zones. 

28-11-2016 JURONG, SINGAPORE - PINK NECKED GREEN PIGEON (Treron vernans)

The pink-necked green pigeon (Treron vernans ) is a species of bird of the pigeon and dove family, Columbidae. It is a common species of Southeast Asia, found from Myanmar and Vietnam south through to the major islands of Indonesia and the Philippines (where it is called "punay"). It is a medium-sized pigeon with predominantly green plumage; only the male has the pink neck that gives the species its name. The species lives in a wide range of forested and human-modified habitats and is particularly found in open habitats. Its diet is dominated by fruit, in particular figs. Pairs lay two eggs in a flimsy twig nest in a tree, shrub, or hedge, and work together to incubate the eggs and raise the chicks. The species is thought to be an important disperser of fruit seeds. The species has adapted well to human changes to the environment, and can be found in crowded cities as long as fruiting trees are present. It is not considered to be at risk of extinction.

13-3-2019 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - SOUTHERN BROAD BELLIED JEWEL BUG (Eurygaster austriaca)

TheEurygaster austriaca, Commonly known as the cereal bug or wheat bug , it is a hemipteran insect of the family ScutelleridaeIt is recognized as a major agricultural pest for cereal crops such as wheat and barley, as its feeding damages the grains and reduces their baking quality. 

Physical Description

Size: Adults measure between 11 and 14 mm in length.

Coloration: They exhibit highly variable coloration, generally yellowish-brown with darker spots. The body is broadly oval and finely dotted.

Distinguishing features: They have a pointed head, and the genae (cheeks) fuse together, closing the anterior portion of the head, which is key to their identification. The scutellum is very large and covers most of the abdomen and wings. They often display three light-colored spots on the scutellum: two small, comma-shaped spots and a slightly keeled central longitudinal line.

13-3-2019 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - WAVE MOTH (idaea cervantaria)

1.4 to 2.2 cm wingspan. Straw-coloured, with yellowish wings with scattered dark, brown or greyish scales. On each wing it has a wavy line with small pointed spots, pointing backwards. Sometimes these details are barely noticeable. Between these lines and the rear edge, it has dark spots that may have a  light wavy stripe. It has a spot on each wing but those on the front wings may go unnoticed.

There are other similar species that are impossible to distinguish externally, so for a correct and safe identification, genital analysis must be used. Several of them have been found in the province of Malaga, although I. cervantaria is currently the most common and the only one that has been observed in urban environments.

The caterpillars feed on dry leaves of herbaceous plants and in captivity on petals of different Asteraceae and sea alder (Lobularia maritima), the latter common in our province, especially in sunny areas of the limestone mountains, and occasionally used in gardening for the showiness of its inflorescences.

13-3-2019 CASTELL DE CASTELLS, ALICANTE - SAINFOINS (Genus Onobrychis)

Onobrychis, the sainfoins, are a genus of Eurasian perennial herbaceous plants of the legume family (Fabaceae). About 206 species are presently accepted. The Flora Europaea lists 23 species of Onobrychis; the main centre of diversity extends from Central Asia to Iran, with 56 species – 27 of which are endemic – in the latter country alone. O. viciifolia is naturalized throughout many countries in Europe and North America grasslands on calcareous soils.

The leaves are pinnate, alternate, with 6 to 14 pairs of oblong to linear leaflets. Sainfoins have pale pink flowers, typically blooming between June and September and pollinated by honey bees and solitary bees. The rounded single-seeded pods bear prominent spikes or similar protrusions in many species, enabling them to cling to the fur of large mammals and be thus distributed.

28-11-2016 JURONG, SINGAPORE - JAVA SPARROW (Padda oryzivora)

The Java sparrow (Padda oryzivora) is a small passerine bird. It is a popular cage bird and has been introduced into many other countries.

The adult Java sparrow is unmistakable, with its grey upperparts and breast, pink belly, white-cheeked black head, red eye-ring, pink feet, and thick red bill. The male and the female are similar. Immature birds have brown upperparts and pale brown underparts, and a plain head. Very young birds have a black beak with a pink base.

These birds do not migrate and are found throughout the year in Java, Bali, and Bawean in Indonesia. They inhabit open woodlands, open grasslands, savannas, cultivated areas, villages, and towns.

Java sparrows are diurnal and very gregarious birds that live and forage in flocks. Outside of the breeding season flocks may travel short distances in search of better feeding areas. The call of Java sparrows is a ‘chip’, and their song is a rapid series of call notes ‘chipchipchipchipchipchip’.

Java sparrows are herbivores (granivores). They feed mainly on grain and various seeds.

Java sparrows are monogamous birds that form pairs. During the breeding season, males sing songs in order to attract females. Java sparrows construct their nests in a tree or building. Females lay up to 8 eggs and incubation takes approximately 14 days. The chicks are protected by both parents and start to breed when they are 1 year old.

14-3-2019 CAMI LES FONTS OLIVA, 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.

The Little Egret is classified as "Least Concern" by the IUCN. Conservation measures in the 20th century have allowed populations to recover in Europe, and the species has been expanding its range. It is now successfully colonizing new areas, including the New World.

14-3-2019 CAMI LES FONTS OLIVA, VALENCIA - WESTERN CATTLE EGRET (Bubulcus ibis ssp. ibis)

The Western Cattle-Egret is a gregarious, white, upland ardeid (Ardeidae), easily recognized by its foraging association with grazing animals and its exaggerated, head-pumping strut. It differs from the Eastern Cattle-Egret (Ardea coromanda) in having less buff-orange breeding plumage in the head and neck regions.

Small, compact white heron with relatively short yellow bill. More frequently seen in dry habitats than other egrets. In breeding season, look for pale salmon color on head and breast and brighter bill. Leg color varies from reddish or yellow during the breeding season to black during the nonbreeding season. Juveniles have dark bill. Always note relatively short, thick neck and short legs compared with other egrets. Often gathers in flocks, frequently following cattle or tractors in fields.

The Western Cattle-Egret is a gregarious, white, upland heron ( Ardeidae ), easily recognized by its foraging association with grazing animals and its exaggerated head-waving. It is distinguished from the Eastern Cattle-Egret (Ardea coromanda) due to having less buffy-orange breeding plumage on the head and neck regions. Its preference for grasslands, lawns, pastures, and grazing animals is quite distinct from that of other herons and egrets, which usually feed in or beside water and not in close association with livestock. In Britain and Europe, it is also known as the buffalo heron, referring to the color of its breeding plumes; but in many languages, it is simply called the cow crane, cow heron, or cowbird, or named after the wild grazing animal with which it is usually associated, e.g., elephant bird, rhinoceros egret, or hippopotamus egret.