5-6-2019 MOREMI CAMP, BOTSWANA - SOUTHERN LION (FEMALE) (Panthera leo ssp. melanochaita)

Panthera leo melanochaita is a lion subspecies in Southern and East Africa. In this part of Africa, lion populations are regionally extinct in Lesotho, Djibouti and Eritrea, and are threatened by loss of habitat and prey base, killing by local people in retaliation for loss of livestock, and in several countries also by trophy hunting. Since the turn of the 21st century, lion populations in intensively managed protected areas in Botswana, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe have increased, but declined in East African range countries. In 2005, a Lion Conservation Strategy was developed for East and Southern Africa.

Results of a phylogeographic study indicate that lion populations in southern and eastern Africa form a major clade distinct from lion populations in West Africa, Central Africa and Asia. In 2017, the Cat Classification Task Force of the IUCN Cat Specialist Group subsumed lion populations according to the major clades into two subspecies, namely P. l. leo and P. l. melanochaita. Within P. l. melanochaita three subclades are clearly distinguishable. One from northeastern Africa, another one from southwestern Africa and a third one from southeastern Africa.

The type specimen for P. l. melanochaita was a black-maned lion from the Cape of Good Hope, known as the Cape lion. Phylogeographic analysis of lion samples from Gabon and the Republic of the Congo indicate their close genetic relation to P. l. melanochaita samples from Namibia and Botswana. It has been referred to as the Southern lion, Southern African lion, East-Southern African lion and the "southern subspecies". Lions usually hunt in groups and prey foremost on ungulates such as gemsbok (Oryx gazella), Cape buffalo (Syncerus caffer), blue wildebeest (Connochaetes taurinus), giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis), common eland (Tragelaphus oryx), greater kudu (T. strepsiceros), nyala (T. angasii), roan antelope (Hippotragus equinus), sable antelope (H. niger), plains zebra (Equus quagga), bushpig (Potamochoerus larvatus), common warthog (Phacochoerus africanus), hartebeest (Alcephalus buselaphus), common tsessebe (Damaliscus lunatus), waterbuck (Kobus ellipsiprymnus), kob (K. kob) and Thomson's gazelle (Eudorcas thomsonii). 

Their prey is usually in the range of 190–550 kg (420–1,210 pounds). In the Serengeti National Park, lions were observed to also scavenge on carrion of animals that were killed by other predators, or died from natural causes. They kept a constant lookout for circling vultures, apparently being aware that vultures indicate a dead animal.[80] Faeces of lions collected near waterholes in Hwange National Park also contained remains of climbing mice (Dendromus) and common mice (Mus).

In Botswana's Chobe National Park, lions also prey on young and subadult African bush elephants (Loxodonta africana). They successfully attacked 74 elephants between 1993 and 1996, of which 26 were older than nine years, and one bull over 15 years old. In October 2005, a pride of up to 30 lions killed eight African bush elephants that were between four and eleven years old.

5-6-2019 MOREMI CAMP, BOTSWANA - SAVANNAH ELEPHANT (Loxodonta Africana)

The African bush elephant (Loxodonta africana), also known as the African savanna elephant, is a species of elephant native to sub-Saharan Africa. It is one of three extant elephant species and, along with the African forest elephant, one of two extant species of African elephant. It is the largest living terrestrial animal, with fully grown bulls reaching an average shoulder height of 3.04–3.36 metres (10.0–11.0 ft) and a body mass of 5.2–6.9 tonnes (5.7–7.6 short tons); the largest recorded specimen had a shoulder height of 3.96 metres (13.0 ft) and an estimated body mass of 10.4 tonnes (11.5 short tons). The African bush elephant is characterised by its long prehensile trunk with two finger-like processes; a convex back; large ears which help reduce body heat; and sturdy tusks that are noticeably curved. The skin is grey with scanty hairs, and bending cracks which support thermoregulation by retaining water.

The African bush elephant inhabits a variety of habitats such as forests, grasslands, woodlands, wetlands and agricultural land. It is a mixed herbivore feeding mostly on grasses, creepers, herbs, leaves, and bark. The average adult consumes about 150 kg (330 lb) of vegetation and 230 L (51 imp gal; 61 US gal) of water each day. A social animal, the African bush elephant often travels in herds composed of cows and their offspring. Adult bulls usually live alone or in small bachelor groups. During the mating season, males go through a process called musth, a period of high testosterone levels and heightened aggression. For females, the menstrual cycle lasts three to four months, and gestation around 22 months, the longest of any mammal.

5-6-2019 LINYANTI CAMP, BOTSWANA - WHITE BROWED COUCAL (Centropus superciliosus)

The white-browed coucal or lark-heeled cuckoo (Centropus superciliosus), is a species of cuckoo in the family Cuculidae. It is found in sub-Saharan Africa. It inhabits areas with thick cover afforded by rank undergrowth and scrub, including in suitable coastal regions. Burchell's coucal is sometimes considered a subspecies.

The white-browed coucal is a medium-sized species growing to 36 to 42 cm (14 to 17 in) in length. The sexes are similar, adults having a blackish crown and nape, a white supercilium, rufous-brown back, chestnut wings, blackish rump and black tail, glossed with green, with a white tip. The underparts are creamy-white, the eyes red, the beak black, and the legs and feet greyish-black or black. Juveniles have rufous streaking on the crown, a faint buff supercilium, barred upper parts and darker underparts.

5-6-2019 LINYANTI CAMP, BOTSWANA - LESSER STRIPED SWALLOW (Cecropis abyssinica)

The lesser striped swallow is a denizen of wooded, primarily lowland areas. It shows a preference for less open environments and is commonly found in proximity to human settlements.

This swallow measures between 15 to 19 cm in length. It boasts dark blue upperparts, a striking red rump, and a rufous-chestnut crown, nape, and sides of the head. The underparts are white, adorned with dark streaking. The wings are blackish-brown, with tawny underwing coverts. The tail is blackish with elongated outer feathers, which are marginally longer in males. Juvenile birds present a duller brown plumage with less contrast and shorter tail feathers.

Look for the heavy streaking on the underparts, the rufous ear coverts, and the deep red rump to distinguish the lesser striped swallow from its relatives. These features are more pronounced than those of the greater striped swallow.

The lesser striped swallow breeds across Sub-Saharan Africa, from Sierra Leone and southern Sudan down to eastern South Africa. It exhibits partial migratory behavior, with South African populations moving north during the winter, and West African birds vacating the northern part of their range in the dry season.

This species is known for its erratic flight as it hunts for flying insects, although it occasionally consumes small fruits. Its call is a distinctive nasal "zeh zeh zeh zeh zeh."

The lesser striped swallow constructs a bowl-shaped mud nest with a tubular entrance, often on the underside of a structure such as a building, bridge, or culvert. The nest, which may be reused in subsequent years, is lined with soft materials for comfort. The species tends to select elevated sites for nesting. Typically, a clutch comprises three glossy white eggs, sometimes speckled with brown. Incubation is carried out by the female for 14 to 16 days, followed by both parents feeding the chicks. Fledging occurs after another 17 to 19 days, though the young may return to the nest to roost for a short period post-flight.

The greater striped swallow is similar in appearance but can be differentiated by its larger size, lighter head color, and less extensive underpart streaking.

The lesser striped swallow primarily feeds on flying insects, supplementing its diet occasionally with small fruits.

5-6-2019 LINYANTI CAMP, BOTSWANA - SOUTHERN GROUND HORNBILL (Bucorvus leadbeateri)

The southern ground hornbill (Bucorvus leadbeateri) is one of two species of ground hornbill, both of which are found solely within Africa, and is the largest species in the hornbill order worldwide. It can be found in the southern regions of Africa, ranging from Kenya to South Africa. Within these regions, they inhabit both woodlands and savannas. The other species of the genus Bucorvus is the Abyssinian ground hornbill, B. abyssinicus.

Southern ground hornbills are carnivorous and hunt mostly on the ground. Their food ranges from insects to small vertebrates. Their nests are often found in high tree cavities or other shallow cavities, such as rock holes in cliff faces. These birds are a long-lived species, having lifespans in the range of 50–60 years, and up to 70 in captivity. In relation to their long lives, they do not reach sexual maturity until 4–6 years old, and begin breeding around 10 years old. Their sex can be identified by the colour of their throats: the male's is pure red and the female's is a deep violet-blue.

Southern ground hornbills are a culturally pervasive and important species in southern Africa. Kruger National Park, located within South Africa, lists southern ground hornbills as one of their 'Big Six' bird species.[6] However, their numbers have been declining, due in part to persecution, habitat destruction, cultural beliefs, and other factors. They are listed globally as 'Vulnerable' by the IUCN as of 2018, and as 'Endangered' in South Africa, Lesotho, Namibia and Eswatini.

Southern ground hornbill groups are very vocal: contact is made by calls in chorus which can usually be heard at distances of up to 3 kilometres (1.86 mi). The calls allow each group to maintain its territory, which must be as large as 100 square kilometres (40 sq mi) even in the best habitat.

Southern ground hornbills can be found from northern Namibia and Angola to northern South Africa and southern Zimbabwe to Burundi and Kenya. They require a savanna habitat with large trees for nesting and dense but short grass for foraging.

This is a large bird, at 90 to 129 cm (2 ft 11 in to 4 ft 3 in) long. Females weigh 2.2 to 4.6 kilograms (4.9 to 10.1 lb), while the larger males weigh 3.5 to 6.2 kilograms (7.7 to 13.7 lb).[citation needed] The average weight of eight females was 3.34 kg (7.4 lb) whilst that of eight males was 4.2 kg (9.3 lb); thus they average around 35% percent heavier than any Asian hornbill species.[9] Wingspan is from 1.2 to 1.8 m (3 ft 11 in to 5 ft 11 in). The wing chord is 49.5 to 61.8 cm (19.5 to 24.3 in), the tail from 29 to 36 cm (11 to 14 in), the tarsus from 13 to 15.5 cm (5.1 to 6.1 in) and the culmen from 16.8 to 22.1 cm (6.6 to 8.7 in). Stevenson and Fanshawe report that the Abyssinian ground hornbill is the larger species on average, at 110 cm (43 in), than the southern species, at 102 cm (40 in), but published maximum weights and standard measurements indicate the southern species is slightly larger. Average weights are not known for the Abyssinian species.

The southern ground hornbill is black with vivid red patches of bare skin on the face and throat (yellow in juvenile birds)—as well as being one of few birds with eyelashes—which are believed to keep dust out of the birds' eyes while they forage during the dry season. The white tips of the wings (primary feathers) seen in flight are another diagnostic characteristic. The beak is black and slightly curved and presents a casque, more developed in males. Female southern ground hornbills are smaller and have violet-blue skin on their throats. Juveniles to six years old lack the prominent red pouch, having a duller patch of grey in its place.

5-6-2019 LINYANTI CAMP, BOTSWANA - CHACMA BABOON (Papio ursinus)

Chacma baboons are found throughout southern Africa, ranging from South Africa north to Angola, Zambia, and Mozambique. They live in diverse habitats from woodlands to savannas, steppes, and sub-deserts. Chacma baboons are found in the Kalahari Desert as well as on the alpine slopes of the Drakensberg. They usually sleep on hills, cliffs, or large trees and during the day, avoid arid areas with a lack of water.

The Chacma baboon (Papio ursinus) is a member of the Old World monkey family. It is one of the largest of all monkeys. Located primarily in southern Africa, the chacma baboon has a wide variety of social behaviors, including a dominance hierarchy, collective foraging, adoption of young by females, and friendship pairings. In general, the species is not threatened, but hunting, trapping, and accidents kill or remove many baboons from the wild, thereby reducing their numbers and disrupting their social structure.

5-6-2019 LINYANTI CAMP, BOTSWANA - AFRICAN BLACK WINGED KITE (Elanus caeruleus ssp. caeruleus)

The Black-winged Kite, Elanus caeruleus, is a small diurnal raptor with a striking appearance. It is characterized by its long wings and a contrasting pattern of white, grey, and black plumage. The bird's forward-facing eyes with red irises are reminiscent of an owl's gaze, lending it a distinctive look among birds of prey.

Adults of this species can be identified by their black shoulder patches, wingtips, and the distinctive eye stripe. In flight, the long wings extend beyond the tail, which is short and square, lacking the fork seen in typical kites like those in the genus Milvus. When perched, the bird may adjust its wings and jerk its tail, as if maintaining balance. Both sexes have similar plumage.

The Black-winged Kite is typically found in open land and semi-deserts, favoring open grasslands where it can easily spot prey. It is also seen on grassy slopes at higher elevations in parts of Asia.

This species has a wide range that includes sub-Saharan Africa, tropical Asia, and parts of Europe. It has been observed at altitudes as high as 3,650 meters in Sikkim and is known to be a winter visitor in some regions, such as the Western Ghats.

The Black-winged Kite is known for its habit of hovering over grasslands, much like kestrels. It is not migratory but displays nomadic behavior in response to weather and food availability. It is capable of raising multiple broods in a year, taking advantage of surges in rodent populations.

The calls of the Black-winged Kite are high-pitched squeals or soft whistles, mainly heard during the breeding season and at communal roost sites.

Breeding occurs at various times across its range, with nests being a loose platform of twigs. The species lays 3 to 4 pale creamy eggs with deep red spots. Both parents incubate, but the male takes on a more significant role in foraging as the chicks grow.

The Black-winged Kite can be confused with the closely-related Australian Black-shouldered Kite (Elanus axillaris) and the White-tailed Kite (Elanus leucurus) of North and South America, which together form a superspecies.

Its diet consists of large insects, lizards, and rodents, with occasional small snakes and frogs. The kite hunts by flying slowly or hovering like a harrier and sometimes hunts prey in flight.

The IUCN Red List classifies the Black-winged Kite as Least Concern, indicating a stable population trend. However, it benefits from human activities such as agriculture and livestock rearing, which have contributed to its range expansion in southern Europe.

16-6-2019 PEGO MARJAL, ALICANTE - EURASIAN HOOPOE (Upupa epops)

The Eurasian hoopoe, with its scientific name Upupa epops, is a bird of unmistakable appearance. It boasts a warm cinnamon plumage, contrasted by striking black and white wings, and a prominent black-tipped, fan-like crest which it can raise and lower. Its tail features a broad white band across a black background. The hoopoe's long, narrow bill curves downwards, adept for probing the soil, and is black with a fawn base.

When identifying the Eurasian hoopoe, look for its unique silhouette, characterized by its long, tapering bill and erectile crest. In flight, its broad and rounded wings display a bold black and white pattern, and its undulating flight is reminiscent of a large butterfly. The hoopoe's size ranges from 25 to 32 cm in length, with a wingspan of 44 to 48 cm, and it weighs between 46 and 89 grams.

The hoopoe is adaptable, favoring habitats with bare or lightly vegetated ground for foraging and vertical surfaces with cavities for nesting. These can include heathlands, wooded steppes, savannas, grasslands, and forest glades.

This species is native to Europe, Asia, and the northern half of Africa. It is migratory in the northern parts of its range, with European and north Asian birds wintering in the tropics. African populations tend to be sedentary throughout the year.

Hoopoes are known for their sunbathing and dust-bathing behaviors, often spreading their wings and tail against the ground. They are solitary foragers, predominantly feeding on the ground with occasional aerial pursuits.

The hoopoe's call is a soft, melodic "oop-oop-oop," which may vary between two to four syllables. This call is the likely origin of both its English and scientific names.

Hoopoes are monogamous, with pair bonds lasting a single season. They nest in cavities, with the female solely responsible for incubation. Clutch sizes vary geographically, with larger clutches in higher latitudes. The eggs are initially milky blue, becoming discolored in the nest.

While the hoopoe's appearance is quite distinctive, its call can be confused with that of the Himalayan cuckoo in certain regions.

The hoopoe's diet consists mainly of insects, but it may also consume small reptiles, frogs, seeds, and berries. It uses its bill to probe the soil for larvae, pupae, and insects, which are then beaten against a surface to remove indigestible parts.

The Eurasian hoopoe is classified as "Least Concern" by the IUCN. However, there has been a noted decline in populations since 2008, attributed to habitat loss and over-hunting in certain areas. Conservation efforts are in place in regions where the species is threatened.

16-6-2019 LA FONT EN CARROS, VALENCIA - EUROPEAN GREENFINCH (Chloris chloris)

The European greenfinch, or simply greenfinch, is a small passerine bird belonging to the finch family Fringillidae. Exhibiting a predominantly green plumage with yellow accents on the wings and tail, the male is a vibrant sight, while the female and juveniles are more subdued with brownish tones. This bird measures approximately 15 cm in length with a wingspan ranging from 24.5 to 27.5 cm, resembling the size and shape of a house sparrow.

To identify the European greenfinch, look for its thick and conical bill, a characteristic of seed-eating birds. The male's plumage is a striking green with yellow flashes on the wings and tail, whereas the female and young birds are more muted with brownish backs. The male's display flight is akin to a butterfly, a dance to charm its mate.

The greenfinch favors woodland edges, farmland hedges, and gardens with dense vegetation for breeding. It nests in trees or bushes within these habitats.

This bird has a broad range across Europe, North Africa, and Southwest Asia. It is mainly sedentary, but some populations in the northernmost regions migrate southwards in colder months. The species has also been introduced to Australia, New Zealand, Uruguay, and Argentina.

16-6-2019 PEGO MARJAL, ALICANTE - 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.

16-6-2019 POTRIES, VALENCIA - HOUSE SPARROW (FEMALE) (Passer domesticus)

Female house sparrows are plainer than males, appearing as a dusty brown with a pale eyebrow stripe. They are smaller and can live up to 14 years, weighing around 30g, and are highly social, omnivorous birds that nest in colonies and are common in human-inhabited areas. 

Appearance

Plumage: A duller, dusty brown overall with streaked backs and pale underparts. They lack the distinct head markings, gray crown, white cheeks, and black bib of the male.

Head Markings: A pale buff eyebrow stripe is a key identifier.

Year-round consistency: Their appearance is similar year-round, unlike males who have a more vibrant breeding plumage. 

Behavior and lifestyle

Social: They are very social birds, living and nesting in small, communal groups called colonies.

Diet: They are omnivores, eating a variety of seeds, grains, buds, berries, and insects. They are also opportunistic feeders that readily consume human scraps and food left out for other birds.

Nesting: They build communal nests from dry grass, straw, feathers, and other found materials in places like dense bushes, eaves of buildings, and nest boxes.

Reproduction: A female typically lays 2-5 eggs per clutch, which both parents incubate. Both parents share incubation duties.

16-6-2019 PEGO MARJAL, ALICANTE - FLOATING PRIMROSE WILLOW (Ludwigia peploides)

Ludwigia peploides is a species of flowering plant in the evening primrose family known by the common names floating primrose-willow and creeping water primrose. It is native to Australia, North America, and South America, but it can be found on many continents and spreads easily to become naturalized. It is well known as a troublesome aquatic noxious weed that invades water ecosystems and can clog waterways. This is perennial herb which grows in moist to wet to flooded areas. The stem can creep over 2 meters long, sometimes branching. It spreads to form mats on the mud, or floats ascending in the water. The leaves are several centimeters long and are borne in alternately arranged clusters along the stem. The flower has 5 to 6 lance-shaped sepals beneath a corolla of 5 or 6 bright yellow petals up to 2.4 centimeters long. The fruit is a hard, cylindrical capsule.

Ludwigia peploides is native to Australia, North America, and South America.

In the US it can be found predominately along the east and southwest coasts.

L. peploides has established a significant presence as an invasive species, and has caused serious problems in areas where it has been introduced, presenting challenges to ecologies and infrastructure. In France, L. peploides now tops the list of the most invasive aquatic plants in the nation.

An estimate of its areas of heaviest dispersion might be gleaned from records of public action against it. Bans on the trade of L. peploides have been enacted in the contiguous nations of France, Netherlands, and Belgium, as well as in United Kingdom and Portugal, and there are reports that it has now also been found in Croatia.

16-6-2019 VILLALONGA RESERVOIR, VALENCIA - WAVYLEAF MULLEIN (Verbascum sinuatum)

Verbascum sinuatum, commonly known as the scallop-leaved mullein,[2] the wavyleaf mullein, or Candela regia, is a species of perennial herbaceous plants in the genus Verbascum (mullein), growing in heavy soils in Central Asia and the Mediterranean region. It grows to 1.2–1.5 m (3.9–4.9 ft). The plant has an erect inflorescence stem, and is entirely covered with stellate hairs (trichomes) which are not pleasant to the touch.

In the winter, a rosette of broad-leaves grows at the base of the Scallop-leaved mullein and spreads itself on the ground (length 30–50 cm). In the spring, a leafless stalk grows from the base of the plant, splitting into many diagonal stems that can grow as much as 50 to 100 cm. in length, on which the flowers are located. The plant bears simple, emarginate leaves, and has a yellow lamp-shaped flower (hence its name Candela) of 5 petals, blossoming mostly in late May to August, although sometimes as late as October.

The plant's leaves are alternate, rosette, entire, dentate or serrate.

The plant has a broad Irano-Turanian distribution, as well as a broad Mediterranean distribution (stretching from the Mediterranean coastal regions to West and South Iran). The plant is native to Israel, where it grows in the Golan, the Hermon, the coastline of the Mediterranean Sea, Gilboa, Carmel, Samarian Mountains, Judean Mountains, the Jordan Valley, the Sharon valley, Shephelah, Northern Negev, and Eilat Mountains, and the Arabah, typically found in waste habitats, along waysides, and in open chaparrals (shrublands) and phrygana.

5-6-2019 LINYANTI CAMP, BOTSWANA - AFRICAN WATTLED LAPWING (Vanellus senegallus)

The Southern Wattled Lapwing is the subspecies Vanellus senegallus lateralis of the African Wattled Lapwing, a large, conspicuous wader found across sub-Saharan Africa. It is known for its bold yellow facial wattles with fleshy red bases and its loud, sharp calls. 

Key Facts

Scientific Name: Vanellus senegallus lateralis

Alternative Names: African Wattled Lapwing, Senegal Wattled Plover, or simply Wattled Lapwing.

Physical Appearance: A large, brownish bird, about 34 cm (13.5 in) long, with a black crown, white forehead, long yellow legs, and prominent yellow facial wattles that have red bases. In flight, its upper wings display a white bar separating black flight feathers from brown coverts.

Habitat: It prefers open and moist areas such as marshes, wet grasslands, and the edges of lakes, but is adaptable and also found in drier savannas, cultivated fields, and even golf courses.

Distribution: This particular subspecies is a resident breeder in southern and eastern Democratic Republic of Congo to western Kenya, south to northern Namibia and eastern South Africa.

Diet: It is an insectivore, feeding primarily on insects and other invertebrates (such as grasshoppers, beetles, and worms) picked from the ground while walking slowly or using "foot-trembling" to disturb prey.

Behavior: Known for being vigilant and vocal, it has a loud, sharp call, often rendered as a "peep-peep-peep" or "did-he-do-it". It is territorial, especially during the breeding season, and aggressively defends its ground nest from intruders.

Breeding: It lays 2-4 eggs in a shallow ground scrape, often lined with grass or pebbles. Both parents incubate the eggs and care for the chicks, which are precocial and leave the nest shortly after hatching to forage with their parents. 

This bird is protected under the Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds (AEWA). 

5-6-2019 KHWAI CAMP, BOTSWANA - BLACK WINGED STILT (Himantopus himantopus)

The Black-winged Stilt has a wide range, extending across Europe, Asia, and Africa. Some populations migrate to coastal regions in winter, while others in milder climates may remain resident or engage in short-range movements.

Black-winged Stilts are often seen foraging in shallow waters, gracefully picking insects and crustaceans from the surface. They are known to nest in small groups, sometimes alongside avocets, and exhibit a variety of courtship behaviors, including intricate displays and duets.

The flight call of the Black-winged Stilt is a sharp and clear kleek, typically heard during its aerial maneuvers.

Nests are simple bare spots on the ground near water. These birds are communal nesters and may breed in loose colonies. They have been known to breed as far north as Britain, with recent successful breeding events recorded in Southern and Northern England.

The Black-winged Stilt can be confused with other stilt species, such as the Black-necked Stilt (H. mexicanus) in the Americas, the White-backed Stilt (H. melanurus), and the Pied Stilt (H. leucocephalus) in Australasia and New Zealand.

Their diet consists mainly of insects and crustaceans, which they deftly pick from the water's surface or from wet sand.

The IUCN lists the Black-winged Stilt as Least Concern, indicating a stable global population. However, they are protected under the Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds, highlighting the importance of international cooperation in their conservation.

5-6-2019 LINYANTI CAMP, BOTSWANA - AFRICAN OPENBILL (Anastomus lamelligerus)

The African Openbill (Anastomus lamelligerus ) is a species of stork from the family Ciconiidae. It is widely distributed in Sub-Saharan Africa and western regions of Madagascar. This species is considered common to locally abundant across its range, although it has a patchy distribution. Some experts consider there to be two sub-species, A. l. lamelligerus distributed on the main continent and A. l. madagascariensis living on the island of Madagascar. Scientists make the difference between the two sub-species due to the more pronounced longitudinal ridges on the bills of adult A. l. madagascariensis.The Asian Openbill (Anastomus oscitans ) distributed in Asia is the African Openbill’s closest relative. The two species share the same notably large bill of a peculiar shape that gives them their name.

The African Openbill is a stork measuring 80-94 cm and weighing 1-1.3 kg. The species does not exhibit any major sexual dimorphism, although the males are slightly larger than the females and have a longer and heavier bill. The adult bill is betwen 135-196 mm in length, brownish in color and has a gap between the upper aend lower mandible. This gap is non-existent in juvenile birds and develops as the bird ages. It is because the two mandibles of the beak only meet at the tip and not in the middle that this stork genus received the name of “openbill”.

The adult plumage is overall black with iridescent green feathers on their backs, coverts and abdomens. The juvenile plumage is usually less vibrant and browner in color with the feathers of the underparts having pale tips. The legs and feet are black. The eyes are grey with grey lores and no distinct coloration of the eye-ring.

These storks are smaller in stature than most of the other species in their family which allows them to be much more agile in the air. This agility can be observed during their descents from high altitudes as they often perform steep dives and remarkable acrobatic manoeuvres. During their migration flights, the African openbill storks will use sustained flapping flight with an average wing flap rate of 200-210 flaps/minute. They will also often soar on the thermals when commuting to and from distant feeding areas. This allows them to travel long distances to obtain food without expending too much energy. In flight, these birds have their necks and head extended and their long, broad wings are spread out and perfect for soaring and gliding on the air currents.

5-6-2019 LINYANTI CAMP, BOTSWANA - EAST AFRICAN HARRIER HAWK (Polyboroides typus ssp. typus)

                                          

The East African Harrier-hawk is an opportunistic raptor with a unique "double-jointed" leg structure that allows it to climb and probe for prey in crevices, unlike other hawks. It has a distinctive pale grey body, black and white tail, and a bare red or yellow facial patch. Its diet includes mammals, frogs, lizards, insects, and particularly eggs and nestlings raided from other birds' nests. 

Key facts

Physical characteristics:

Size: 51–68 cm (20–26.7 in) body length and a wingspan of 118–152 cm (46.5–59.8 in).

Plumage: Pale grey upper parts, white belly with dark barring, and a black tail with a single broad white band.

Face: A bare patch of skin around the eyes that is yellow or red.

Juveniles: Blotchy brown instead of grey.

Unique adaptations:

"Double-jointed" legs: A special intertarsal joint allows the legs to bend backward, enabling the bird to climb awkwardly on tree trunks and rock faces, and probe into tight spaces like nests.

Behavior and diet:

Diet: Opportunistic, including small mammals, frogs, lizards, insects, and even fish, fruit, and carrion. It is particularly known for raiding nests for eggs and nestlings.

Foraging: Unlike most raptors, it actively climbs on branches and tree trunks to find food, sometimes hanging upside down.

Vocalization: Makes a "wah... wah... wah" call, and a whistling sound in flight, according to Birds of the World and Kids encyclopedia facts.

Breeding:

Nest: Pairs build stick nests in trees or on cliffs.

Eggs: Females lay 1–3 eggs, and both parents incubate them for about 35 days.

Chicks: Siblings often compete fiercely, and older chicks may kill younger ones.

Habitat and distribution:

Habitat: Adaptable, found in a range of habitats including savannah woodlands, forest edges, rocky cliffs, and even urban gardens.

Distribution: Common across much of sub-Saharan Africa, from the tropical west to East and South Africa.

Conservation status:

Global: Listed as "least concern" (LC) by the IUCN Red List.

Regional variations: Some populations, especially in parts of West Africa, show declines due to habitat loss. 

5-6-2019 KHWAI CAMP, BOTSWANA - PEARL SPOTTED OWLET (Glaucidium perlatum)

The pearl-spotted owlet (Glaucidium perlatum) is a small bird of prey found in sub-Saharan Africa. They belong to the Strigidae family, otherwise known as the typical owls or the true owls, which contains most species of owl. As part of the genus Glaucidium, or pygmy owls, they are commonly referred to as 'owlets' due to their diminutive size. Pearl-spotted owlets are brownish and heavily spotted white, with two distinct black false 'eyes' at the back of their head. They are often confused with an African barred owlet.

The pearl-spotted owlet is one of the smallest owls in Africa with a length of 17 to 21 cm. The females are slightly larger and heavier (100g) than the males (65g). Both males and females have similar plumage colouration. The facial disc is off-white and the eyes are yellow. At the back of the head there are two striking false black 'eyes' with a white outline. The upper parts are cinnamon-brown with white spots. The tail and flight feathers are brown, with large white spots forming bars in flight. The bill and cere are pale greenish yellow, the legs are feathered white and feet are yellow. Juveniles are similar to adults but the head and back spots may be lacking or much reduced and the false 'face' is very obvious.

4-6-2019 LINYANTI CAMP, BOTSWANA - WHITE FRONTED BEE-EATER (Merops bullockoides)

The White-fronted Bee-eater is a colorful bird from Africa with a white forehead, red throat, and green upperparts. It has complex social structures, nests in large colonies in cliffs or earthen banks, and feeds primarily on flying insects like bees and wasps, which it carefully removes the sting from before eating. They are found in woodlands and savannas, often near rivers. 

Appearance

Size: Around 23 cm (9 inches) long.

Color: Green upperparts, a red throat, and a distinctive white forehead. It has a black line through its eyes and blue thighs.

Tail: Has a square-ended tail. 

Habitat and Diet

Habitat: Found in wooded savannas, grasslands, and open scrub, particularly in areas with riverbanks.

Diet: Feeds on flying insects, with a diet consisting heavily of bees and wasps.

Hunting: Hunts insects in flight by darting from a perch, catching prey, and returning to its perch to eat.

4-6-2019 LINYANTI CAMP, BOTSWANA - VERREAUX'S EAGLE OWL (Bubo lacteus)

Verreaux's eagle-owl (Ketupa lactea), also commonly known as the milky eagle owl or giant eagle owl, is a member of the family Strigidae. This species is widespread in sub-Saharan Africa. A member of the genus Ketupa, it is the largest African owl, measuring up to 66 cm (26 in) in total length. This eagle-owl is a resident primarily of dry, wooded savanna. Verreaux's eagle-owl is mainly grey in color and is distinguishable from other large owls by its bright pink eyelids, a feature shared with no other owl species in the world.

Verreaux's eagle-owl is a highly opportunistic predator equipped with powerful talons. Just over half of its known diet is composed of mammals but equal or even greater numbers of birds and even insects may be hunted locally, along with any other appropriately sized prey that is encountered. This species is considered of Least Concern by IUCN as it occurs over a wide range and has shown some adaptability to human-based alterations and destruction of habitat and adaptability to diverse prey when a primary prey species declines in a region. As a large, highly territorial species of owl, it does, however, occur at fairly low densities and some regional declines have been reported.

Verreaux's eagle-owl is found through most of sub-Saharan Africa, though it is absent from most of the deep rainforests. The species is found at the highest densities in eastern and southern Africa. As this species avoids primary forests, it is found very spottily in west Africa. Their western distribution includes The Gambia, Senegal, Guinea and Sierra Leone.

Eastward from those countries to the Central African Republic, the species is distributed in a narrow transitional zone between the Sahara and rainforests. Seemingly isolated populations occur in central Nigeria and central Mali. In south-western Africa, they range up to as far north as the southern parts of the Republic of the Congo and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, through most of Namibia (excluding the coastal regions) and northern South Africa. In east Africa, their distribution is more or less continuous from southern Sudan, Eritrea and inland Somalia down to South Africa as far as the region of the city of Durban.

4-6-2019 LINYANTI CAMP, BOTSWANA - SOUTHERN WHITE FACED OWL (Ptilopsis granti)

The Southern white-faced owl (Ptilopsis granti) is a fairly small owl in the family Strigidae. It is native to the southern half of Africa. It was formerly regarded as a subspecies of the northern white-faced owl (P. leucopsis) but the two are now commonly treated as separate species.

It is 22–28 cm (8.7–11.0 in) long and weighs 185–220 g (6.5–7.8 oz). The upperparts are grey with dark streaks and there are white spots on the scapular feathers. The underparts are whitish with dark streaks. The face is white with a black border and black around the large orange eyes. The head has two short ear-tufts with black tips. Juvenile birds have a greyish face. The northern white-faced owl is usually paler and browner with reduced streaking below.

Their call is a series of fast, bubbling hoots, uttered at night and frequently repeated. These fast, staccato notes followed by a longer and higher-pitched 'hoot' are extensively used during breeding season and pairs of owls often sing together. The Northern white-faced owl has a very different two-note call.

Southern white-faced owls occur patchily in the western regions central and southern Africa, including Gabon, Republic of Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo and Angola. They seem to be more common in regions such as Uganda, southern Kenya and Tanzania, as well as Zambia, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Eswatini and the northern regions of South Africa.

It inhabits savanna and dry woodland. It is usually seen alone or in pairs. It mainly hunts large insects, as well as occasional small mammals, birds and reptiles.

The eggs are usually laid in the old nest of another bird. The clutch contains two or three eggs which are incubated for about 30 days. The young birds leave the nest about a month after hatching.

After the summer, southern white-faced owls increase their resting metabolic rate by approximately 45% to adjust to the climate changes. Furthermore, the owls do this to increase cold temperature tolerance which is unusual for these creatures. Not only that, but the BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate) of the owl is lower than what is expected of other birds of a similar size to help them when there is a lack of food. This is unusual considering the lack of food and other survival resources during the winter.