14-3-2020 KERALA, INDIA - GOLDEN TRUMPET (Allamanda cathartica)

Allamanda cathartica, commonly called golden trumpet, common trumpetvine, and yellow allamanda, is a species of flowering plant in the family Apocynaceae. It is native to Bolivia, Brazil, French Guiana, Guyana, Suriname, and Venezuela, and widely naturalised elsewhere in the tropics. This plant is cited in Flora Brasiliensis by Carl Friedrich Philipp von Martius.

It does not twine, nor does it have tendrils or aerial roots. It can be pruned into a shrub form. If not pruned it can sprawl to a height of 6 m (20 ft).  According to McMullen, it can be up to 15 m (49 ft) in length in the Galapagos Islands where it is naturalised.

The city of Canóvanas, Puerto Rico has adopted this species, known locally as canario amarillo, as its official flower.

The species is cultivated as a house plant. It requires a soil rich in organic matter, temperatures of not less than 18 °C (64 °F) during the growing season, plenty of moisture, and bright light but not direct sunlight. During the rest season from October to March, the plant should be watered more sparingly and can endure temperatures down to 13 °C (55 °F). It should be repotted every year until it is in a container of 40–50 cm (16–20 in). Propagation is by cuttings taken from April to May.

14-3-2020 KERALA, INDIA - CROWN FLOWER (Calotropis gigantea)

Calotropis gigantea, the crown flower, is a species of Calotropis native to Cambodia, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines,Thailand, Sri Lanka, India, China, Pakistan, and Nepal.

It is a large shrub growing to 4 m (13 ft) tall. It has clusters of waxy flowers that are either white or lavender in colour. Each flower consists of five pointed petals and a small "crown" rising from the center which holds the stamens. The aestivation found in calotropis is valvate i.e. sepals or petals in a whorl just touch one another at the margin, without overlapping. The plant has oval, light green leaves and milky stem. The latex of Calotropis gigantea contains cardiac glycosides, fatty acids, and calcium oxalate. The roots also contain Calotropone.

14-3-2020 KERALA, INDIA - PIED PADDY SKIMMER DRAGONFLY (Neurothemis tullia)

14-3-2020 KERALA, INDIA - BAYA WEAVER (Ploceus philippinus)

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baya_weaver

14-3-2020 TURTLE BEECH KERALA, INDIA - TAILED PALMFLY BUTTERFLY (Elymnias caudata)

14-3-2020 TURTLE BEECH KERALA, INDIA - PHILIPPINE GROUND ORCHID (Spathoglottis plicata)

14-3-2020 TURTLE BEECH KERALA, INDIA - COMMON HIBISCUS (Hibiscus syriacus)

14-3-2020 TURTLE BEECH KERALA, INDIA - COMMON PICTURE WING DRAGONFLY (Rhyothemis variegata)

13-3-2020 TURTLE BEECH KERALA, INDIA - TAWNY COSTER BUTTERFLY (Acraea terpsicore)

14-3-2020 TURTLE BEECH KERALA, INDIA - SCARLET SKIMMER DRAGONFLY (MALE) (Crocothemis servilia)

13-3-2020 TURTLE BEECH KERALA, INDIA - PLAIN TIGER BUTTERFLY (Danaus chrysippus)

Danaus chrysippus, also known as the plain tiger, African queen, or African monarch, is a medium-sized butterfly widespread in Asia, Australia and Africa. It belongs to the Danainae subfamily of the brush-footed butterfly family Nymphalidae. Danainae primarily consume plants in the genus Asclepias, more commonly called milkweed. Milkweed contains toxic compounds, cardenolides, which are often consumed and stored by many butterflies. Because of their emetic properties, the plain tiger is unpalatable to most predators. As a result, its colouration is widely mimicked by other species of butterflies. The plain tiger inhabits a wide variety of habitats, although it is less likely to thrive in jungle-like conditions and is most often found in drier, wide-open areas.

D. chrysippus encompasses three main subspecies: D. c. alcippus, D. c. chrysippus, and D. c. orientis. These subspecies are found concentrated in specific regions within the larger range of the entire species.

The plain tiger is believed to be one of the first butterflies depicted in art. A 3,500-year-old ancient Egyptian fresco in Luxor features the oldest known illustration of this species.

D. chrysippus is a medium-sized butterfly with a wingspan of about 7–8 cm (2.8–3.1 in). The body is black with white spots. The wings are a brownish orange, the upper side brighter and richer than the underside. The apical half of the forewing is black with a white band. The hindwing has three black spots in the centre. The wings are bordered in black and outlined with semicircular white spots. This species exhibits slight sexual dimorphism, as the male has large scent glands on his hindwings, which the female lacks. They appear as a large black spot with a white centre if viewed from the underside

D. chrysippus is a polymorphic species, so the exact colouring and patterning vary within and between populations.

It is similar in appearance to the Indian fritillary (Argynnis hyperbius), which may coexist with it.

The plain tiger is found across the entirety of Africa, where the predominant subspecies is D. c. alcippus. Its range extends across the majority of Asia throughout Indian subcontinent, as well as many south Pacific islands. The plain tiger is even present in parts of Australia. D. c. chrysippus is most common throughout Asia and in some select regions in Africa, while D. c. orientis is present in more tropical African regions as well as some African islands, including Madagascar and the Seychelles.It is also found in Southern Europe and Kuwait. These insects are considered bioinvaders in North America.

14-3-2020 TURTLE BEECH KERALA, INDIA - SACRED LOTUS (Nelumbo nucifera)

Nelumbo nucifera, also known as Padma (Sanskrit: पद्म, romanized: Padma, lit. 'Lotus') or Kamala (Sanskrit: कमल, lit. 'Lotus'), sacred lotus, pink lotus, Indian lotus, or simply lotus, is one of two extant species of aquatic plant in the family Nelumbonaceae. It is sometimes colloquially called a water lily, though this more often refers to members of the family Nymphaeaceae. The lotus belongs in the order Proteales.

Lotus plants are adapted to grow in the flood plains of slow-moving rivers and delta areas. Stands of lotus drop hundreds of thousands of seeds every year to the bottom of the pond. While some sprout immediately and most are eaten by wildlife, the remaining seeds can remain dormant for an extensive period of time as the pond silts in and dries out. During flood conditions, sediments containing these seeds are broken open, and the dormant seeds rehydrate and begin a new lotus colony. It is cultivated in nutrient-rich, loamy, and often flooded soils, requiring warm temperatures and specific planting depths, with propagation via rhizomes, seeds, or tissue culture, and is harvested by hand or machine for stolons, flowers, seeds, and rhizomes over several months depending on climate and variety.

It is the national flower of India and unofficially of Vietnam.

14-3-2020 TURTLE BEECH KERALA, INDIA - INDIAN POND HERON (Ardeola grayii)

14-3-2020 TURTLE BEECH KERALA, INDIA - GREEN MARSH HAWK DRAGONFLY (Orthetrum sabina)

14-3-2020 TURTLE BEECH KERALA, INDIA - COMMON BARON BUTTERFLY (Euthalia aconthea)

14-3-2020 TURTLE BEECH KERALA, INDIA - CATTLE EGRET (Bubulcus ibis)

14-3-2020 TURTLE BEECH KERALA, INDIA - BLUE TIGER BUTTERFLY (Tirumala limniace)

14-3-2020 CHANGARAM WETLANDS KERALA, INDIA - WESTERN REEF HERON (Egretta gularis)

The Western Reef Heron, Egretta gularis, also known as the Western Reef Egret, is a medium-sized heron exhibiting remarkable plumage polymorphism. It presents itself in two primary color forms: an all-white morph resembling the Little Egret, and a dark grey morph with a distinctive white throat. During the breeding season, both morphs develop reddish legs and facial skin, and two elongated nape feathers.

To distinguish the Western Reef Heron from similar species, observe the larger, yellower bill and the extended yellow on its thicker legs. The white morph is particularly active when foraging, often employing wing movements or shading techniques. The grey morph's whitish throat sets it apart from other herons within its range. The bill of the subspecies gularis is more pointed, while schistacea has a larger bill, especially towards the base.

This heron favors coastal environments, where it can be seen stalking or ambushing its prey in shallow waters.

The Western Reef Heron is found along the coasts of southern Europe, Africa, and parts of Asia. The subspecies gularis inhabits West Africa to Gabon, with some populations breeding in southern Europe. Subspecies schistacea ranges from the Persian Gulf to the eastern coast of India.

The Western Reef Heron exhibits dynamic foraging behavior, including running through shallow waters, stirring the water with its feet, or using its wings to disturb prey. It is also known to stand motionless, waiting to ambush its next meal.

This species is not particularly vocal, but it does emit a low "kwok" or grating sounds when disturbed or near its nesting site.

Breeding habitats are coastal wetlands. The heron nests in colonies, often on platforms of sticks in trees or shrubs. The usual clutch consists of three to four light blue eggs, with both parents sharing incubation duties.

The Little Egret (Egretta garzetta) is similar in appearance, especially the white morph of the Western Reef Heron. However, the Little Egret has a slimmer bill and lacks the yellow leg extensions seen in the Western Reef Heron.

The diet primarily includes fish, crustaceans, and molluscs. In coastal areas, mudskippers are a regular part of their diet.

The IUCN lists the Western Reef Heron as Least Concern, indicating a stable population without significant immediate threats to its survival.

14-3-2020 CHANGARAM WETLANDS KERALA, INDIA - 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. 

14-3-2020 CHANGARAM WETLANDS KERALA, INDIA - LITTLE CORMORANT (Microcarbo niger)

14-3-2020 CHANGARAM WETLANDS KERALA, INDIA - INDIAN POND HERON (Ardeola grayii)

The Indian Pond Heron, known colloquially as the paddybird, is a modestly sized heron with a penchant for concealment. Its plumage is a mélange of streaked olive and brown, which serves as excellent camouflage against the marshy landscapes it frequents. However, when this bird takes flight, it reveals a striking contrast with its bright white wings, a feature that is otherwise hidden when at rest.

This stocky bird possesses a short neck and a robust, thick bill. The back is buff-brown, and during the summer, adults boast elongated neck feathers. When in flight, the Indian Pond Heron is unmistakable due to the white of its wings. It bears a resemblance to the squacco herons but is distinguished by its darker back. Observers should note that individuals may occasionally exhibit red legs during the breeding season, though this is not a common trait.

The Indian Pond Heron is often found stalking prey at the edges of small water bodies or roosting near human habitations. It is adept at utilizing floating vegetation to access deeper waters and is known to frequent marshy wetlands.

This heron has its origins in the Old World, with a breeding range that extends from southern Iran across the Indian subcontinent to Burma and Sri Lanka. It is a widespread and common species, yet its cryptic coloration often renders it invisible until it is nearly underfoot.

Typically solitary in its foraging habits, the Indian Pond Heron may gather in numbers during the dry season when prey is concentrated in shrinking wetlands. It is a semi-colonial breeder and has been observed foraging in diverse environments, including garbage heaps and well-watered lawns. The bird's tendency to allow close approaches by humans is notable, and it may form communal roosts in urban areas.

The Indian Pond Heron is generally a silent bird, but it may emit a harsh croak when alarmed or near its nesting sites.

The onset of the monsoons marks the beginning of the breeding season for these herons. They nest in small colonies, often alongside other wading birds, constructing platforms of sticks in trees or shrubs. The nests are typically built at heights of 9 to 10 meters. The male collects materials while the female assembles the nest. Clutches usually consist of three to five eggs, which hatch asynchronously after 18 to 24 days. Both parents are involved in feeding the young, primarily with fish.

The Indian Pond Heron is similar to the squacco heron but can be differentiated by its darker back. To the east of its range, it is replaced by the Chinese Pond Heron.

The diet of the Indian Pond Heron is varied, including crustaceans, aquatic insects, fishes, tadpoles, and occasionally leeches. Outside of wetlands, these herons will also consume terrestrial insects, fish, and amphibians. They have been observed using innovative techniques such as bait-fishing with bread crumbs to attract fish.

The IUCN Red List classifies the Indian Pond Heron as Least Concern, indicating that the species does not currently face a significant risk of extinction.

The Indian Pond Heron's habit of remaining motionless until the last possible moment has given rise to several folk beliefs about its vision. In Sri Lanka, it is referred to as the "half-blind heron," and in Hindustani, the phrase "bagla bhagat" likens the bird to a wolf in sheep's clothing. The bird has also featured in Indian folklore and literature, often noted for its surprising transformation from dull to bright colors upon taking flight.

14-3-2020 CHANGARAM WETLANDS KERALA, INDIA - BRAHMINY KITE EAGLE (Haliastur indus)

14-3-2020 CHANGARAM WETLANDS KERALA, INDIA - BLACK DRONGO (Dicrurus macrocercus)

The black drongo (Dicrurus macrocercus) is a small Asian passerine bird of the drongo family Dicruridae. It is a common resident breeder in much of tropical southern Asia from southwest Iran through Pakistan, India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka east to southern China and Indonesia and accidental visitor of Japan. It is an all black bird with a distinctive forked tail and measures 28 cm (11 in) in length. It feeds on insects, and is common in open agricultural areas and light forest throughout its range, perching conspicuously on a bare perch or along power or telephone lines.

The species is known for its aggressive behaviour towards much larger birds, such as crows, never hesitating to dive-bomb any bird of prey that invades its territory. This behaviour earns it the informal name of king crow. Smaller birds often nest in the well-guarded vicinity of a nesting black drongo. Previously grouped along with the African fork-tailed drongo (Dicrurus adsimilis), the Asian forms are now treated as a separate species with several distinct populations.

14-3-2020 CHANGARAM WETLANDS KERALA, INDIA - BARN SWALLOW (Hirundo rustica)

15-3-2020 DUBAI, UAE - WHITE EARED BULBUL (Pycnonotus leucotis)