4-3-2020 KANHA NAT PARK, INDIA - RED WATTLED LAPWING (Vanellus indicus)

The Red-wattled Lapwing, Vanellus indicus, is a striking bird with a robust build, approximately 35 cm in length. Its upperparts are a light brown with a sheen that can appear purple or green, while the head and neck boast a contrasting black. A white patch extends from the underbelly and tail, along the neck, and up to the sides of the crown. The tail is short with a black tip. Notably, it sports a red fleshy wattle before each eye, a red bill with a black tip, and long yellow legs. In flight, one can observe the distinctive white wing bars.

When identifying the Red-wattled Lapwing, look for the characteristic red wattles in front of the eyes, the black-tipped red bill, and the yellow legs. The white wing bars are particularly visible in flight. Males and females are similar in appearance, though males may have slightly longer wings.

This lapwing favors well-watered open landscapes, such as ploughed fields, grazing lands, and the peripheries of tanks and puddles. It is also known to inhabit forest clearings near rain-filled depressions.

The Red-wattled Lapwing is widely distributed across West Asia, South Asia, and Southeast Asia. It is a resident species throughout much of its range, although some populations may move altitudinally during spring and autumn.

The Red-wattled Lapwing is known for its vigilant nature, often the first to sound an alarm at intrusions. It exhibits a slow, deliberate flight but can be remarkably agile when necessary. The species is also known for its nocturnal feeding habits, particularly during the full moon.

The bird's call is a loud, scolding "did-he-do-it," which can be heard both day and night, contributing to its colloquial name, the "did-he-do-it bird."

Breeding season spans from March to August, with courtship displays involving males puffing up feathers and shuffling around females. Nests are ground scrapes, sometimes lined with pebbles or droppings, where 3-4 camouflaged eggs are laid. Both parents incubate and perform distraction displays to protect the nest.

The Red-wattled Lapwing can be confused with other lapwing species, but its red wattles, black-tipped bill, and distinctive call set it apart.

Its diet consists mainly of insects, snails, and other invertebrates, which are typically foraged from the ground. The lapwing may also consume grains and is known to use its legs to disturb prey from soft soil.

The IUCN Red List classifies the Red-wattled Lapwing as Least Concern, indicating it is not currently at significant risk of widespread decline.

2-3-2020 KANHA NAT PARK, INDIA - YELLOW THROATED SPARROW (Gymnoris xanthocollis)

The yellow-throated sparrow or chestnut-shouldered petronia (Gymnoris xanthocollis) is a species of sparrow found in southern Asia.

Showing the yellow throat

It has a finer bill than typical sparrows of the genus Passer and unlike them has no streaks on the plumage. The white double wing bar on the shoulder is diagnostic on the otherwise dull grey-brown sparrow. Males have a chestnut shoulder patch which can sometimes be hard to see. They also have a pale yellow spot on the throat in fresh plumage. Females are duller and lack the chestnut shoulder patch. The yellow spot is much reduced or lacking in females.

This species is tree-loving although sometimes seen on wires and on the ground, where it has a hopping gait. The usual call is a chirrup but the song is distinctive and repetitive chilp chalp cholp. It has a bounding flight and dips deeply before rising up.

The species breeds in tree hollows from April to July, often making use of the holes made by primary hole-nesting birds such as barbets and woodpeckers. They may also make use of hollows on buildings. The nest is built mainly by the female, but males may sometimes assist. The female alone incubates the eggs, sometimes leaving the nest during the hotter parts of the day. The eggs hatch after about 12 to 14 days.

They roost communally in low bushes. Some populations are migratory, moving in response to rains.

They feed mainly on grains but also on insects, nectar and berries. An unusual food item is the petals of flowers such as those of Madhuca indica. When they visit flowers such as those of Capparis, Salmalia, Erythrina and Bassia, their foreheads are covered with pollen.

The chestnut-shouldered petronia is found from Turkey into Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, Bangladesh and as a vagrant in Sri Lanka and possibly parts of Myanmar. It is found in forest, gardens and open scrub habitats.

12-4-2020 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - MALLOW BINDWEED (Convolvulus althaeoides)

Convolvulus althaeoides is a species of morning glory known by the common names mallow bindweed and mallow-leaved bindweed. This flowering plant is native to the Mediterranean Basin, but it is occasionally seen in other areas of similar climate, such as California in the United States, where it has been introduced. 

This is a climbing perennial plant with solitary flowers on long peduncles. The flower is a funnel-shaped pink bloom three or four centimeters wide. The leaves are deeply divided into narrow, fingerlike lobes.

12-4-2020 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - SPECKLED WOOD BUTTERFLY (Pararge aegeria)

The speckled wood (Pararge aegeria) is a butterfly found in and on the borders of woodland areas throughout much of the Palearctic realm. The species is subdivided into multiple subspecies, including Pararge aegeria aegeria, Pararge aegeria tircis, Pararge aegeria oblita, and Pararge aegeria insula. The color of this butterfly varies between subspecies. The existence of these subspecies is due to variation in morphology down a gradient corresponding to a geographic cline. 

The background of the wings ranges from brown to orange, and the spots are either pale yellow, white, cream, or a tawny orange. The speckled wood feeds on a variety of grass species. The males of this species exhibit two types of mate locating behaviors: territorial defense and patrolling. The proportion of males exhibiting these two strategies changes based on ecological conditions. The monandrous female must choose which type of male can help her reproduce successfully. Her decision is heavily influenced by environmental conditions.

12-4-2020 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - COMMON SOW THISTLE (Sonchus oleraceus)

12-4-2020 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - LONG HEADED POPPY (Papaver dubium)

12-4-2020 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - FIELD GLADIOLUS (Gladiolus italicus)

12-4-2020 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - LIME SPECK PUG MOTH (Eupithecia centaureata)

12-4-2020 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - BLUE ROCK THRUSH (MALE) (Monticola solitarius)

11-4-2020 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - SCARLET PIMPERNEL (Lysimachia arvensis)

11-4-2020 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - BLUE APHYLLANTHES (Aphyllanthes monspeliensis)

Aphyllanthes monspeliensis, commonly known as the Blue Aphyllanthes, Blue Grass Lily, or Lily Pink, is a unique, rush-like perennial plant native to the western Mediterranean region. It is highly adapted to hot, arid environments and is prized in rock gardens for its delicate, blue-violet flowers and drought tolerance. 

Here are the key facts about the Blue Aphyllanthes:

Botanical Description

Leafless Appearance: The name Aphyllanthes means "leafless flower". The true leaves are reduced to small, brown, papery, non-photosynthetic scales at the base of the stems.

Photosynthetic Stems: The plant consists of tough, wiry, blue-green, rush-like aerial stems (10–50 cm tall) that perform photosynthesis.

Flowers: In late spring and early summer, it produces small, sky-blue to blue-violet flowers (2-3 cm across) that typically bloom in clusters of 1-3 at the tips of the stems. The flowers feature six petals with a distinct, darker blue central vein.

Roots: It grows from a mass of tangled, underground, fibrous stems. 

Habitat and Ecology

Native Region: It is native to the western Mediterranean, including southern France, Spain, Portugal, Italy, and North Africa (Morocco, Algeria, Libya).

Conditions: It thrives in dry, sunny, and rocky locations, such as garrigue, pine woods, and stony hillsides.

Soil: It prefers well-drained, often calcareous (alkaline) soil. 

Taxonomy and Cultivation

Family: It belongs to the Asparagaceae family (formerly often classified under Liliaceae) and is the only species in the Aphyllanthes genus.

Horticulture: It is used as an ornamental, drought-tolerant plant in rock gardens or xeriscaping, often compared to blue fescue or Sisyrinchium.

Care: It is easy to care for, requiring full sun and minimal watering once established.

Hardiness: It is generally hardy, thriving in zones 7b to 9b. 

Interesting Facts

"Leafless" Adaptation: The waxy cuticle on the stems and the reduction of leaves to scales are adaptations to reduce water loss in hot, dry summers.

Culinary Trivia: In some areas, the roots are reportedly fed to goats, which is believed to give a special taste to the local cheese.

Regional Names: In France and the Occitan region, it is known by various names, including lo blavet (little blue), lo bragalon (little trousers), and la dragona.

First Description: It was first described in 1571 by botanists Pierre Pena and Mathias de Lobel, who found it near Montpellier, France. 

8-5-2017 SEVILLE, ANDALUCIA - 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.

The Eurasian collared dove is known for its dispersive nature rather than migratory habits. It is a monogamous bird that shares parental duties and can breed throughout the year when food is abundant. The male performs a ritual flight during courtship, and the species can produce several broods annually.

The Eurasian collared dove's song is a distinctive "goo-GOO-goo," while its call is a harsh screech lasting about two seconds, often heard in flight before landing.

Breeding occurs close to human settlements, with nests typically within 1 km of inhabited buildings. The female lays two white eggs, which are incubated by both parents. Breeding can happen year-round in favorable conditions.

The diet of the Eurasian collared dove consists mainly of grain, seeds, shoots, and insects. They are gregarious and can form sizeable flocks in winter around food sources.

8-4-2020 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - BLUE ROCK THRUSH (MALE) (Monticola solitarius)

8-4-2020 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - EUROPEAN PAPER WASP (Polistes dominula)

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

8-4-2020 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - CASE BEARING LEAF BEETLE (Genus Lachnaia)

8-4-2020 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - COAL TIT (Periparus ater)

The Coal Tit, scientifically known as Periparus ater, is a diminutive passerine bird belonging to the tit family, Paridae. It is easily recognized by its large white nape spot set against a black head. The adult's glossy blue-black head, throat, and neck contrast with the off-white face and brilliant white nape. The underparts range from whitish to rufous on the flanks, and the bird's bill is a stark black.

To identify the Coal Tit, look for the distinctive white nape spot on its black head. The sides of the face may have a grey to yellow tinge, depending on the subspecies. The white tips of the wing coverts are visible as two wingbars. Juveniles are duller, lacking the glossy black head, and their white nape and cheeks are tinged with yellow.

The Coal Tit is not particularly habitat-specific but is typically found in temperate humid conifer forests. It can also be seen in a variety of wooded areas, including mixed forests and gardens.

This species is a widespread and common resident breeder throughout the temperate to subtropical Palearctic, including North Africa. It is mostly sedentary, with only local movements in response to severe weather.

Coal Tits are known for their acrobatic skills and restless activity. They often form small flocks with other tits during winter. Their foraging behavior is influenced by risk, and they are known to increase body mass in response to predator calls and adjust their mass gain based on food availability.

The Coal Tit's calls are short "dee" or "see-see" sounds, while its song is a strident "if-he, if-he, if-he," which is most frequently heard from January to June and in autumn. The song is similar to that of the Great Tit but is much faster and higher in pitch.

Nesting sites are varied, including holes in rotting tree stumps, ground burrows, and old nests of other large birds. The nest is made of moss, hair, and grass, with a lining of rabbit fur or feathers. The Coal Tit typically lays seven to eleven red-spotted white eggs, mainly in May, and usually breeds once per year.

The Coal Tit can be confused with other tit species, but its distinctive white nape spot and black head are key differentiators.

The diet consists of beechmast, seeds from fir and larch cones, and seeds from alders and birches. They also visit gardens to feed on sunflower seeds and other offerings.

The Coal Tit is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating it is not currently considered a threatened species.

2-3-2020 KANHA NAT PARK, INDIA - LARGE BILLED CROW (Corvus macrorhynchos)

2-3-2020 KANHA NAT PARK, INDIA - SIRKEER MALKOHA (Taccocua leschenaultii)

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

7-4-2020 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - DOUBLE STRIPED PUG MOTH (Gymnoscelis rufifasciata)

The double-striped pug (Gymnoscelis rufifasciata) is a moth of the family Geometridae. It is a widespread and common species, being found throughout the Palearctic region, including the Near East and North Africa.

This is a variable species but always easy to recognize due to the two prominent dark fascia across each forewing which give the species its common name. The forewing ground colour ranges from light to dark reddish brown. The crosslines are distinct. The inner margin of the pale white sub-marginal line bears black marks. The hindwings are pale grey with darker fringes, darker lines and a small black discal spot. There is a dark band across the basal segments of the abdomen. The wingspan is 15–19 mm.

The caterpillars reach a length of up to 17 millimeters and have a very variable basic colouration. It ranges from whitish to yellowish green, brown, red to purple. On the back there is a pale band marked with a series of dark diamonds or triangles. The drawing resembles a rear-facing trident, is sometimes crow-foot-like and can occasionally be only weakly formed. The head is yellowish brown.

Two, sometimes three, broods are produced each year and the adults are on the wing in April and May (sometimes earlier), July and August, and sometimes later in the autumn. Later broods are more heavily marked. It flies at night and is attracted to light and flowers, both of its food plants and others.

The larva feeds on the flowers of a huge range of plants (see list below) and has also been known to feed on the larvae of other lepidoptera. The species overwinters as a pupa.

7-4-2020 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - COAL TIT (Periparus ater)

6-4-2020 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - EURASIAN BLACKBIRD (MALE) (Turdus merula)

6-4-2020 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - SPECKLED WOOD BUTTERFLY (Pararge aegeria)

The speckled wood (Pararge aegeria) is a butterfly found in and on the borders of woodland areas throughout much of the Palearctic realm. The species is subdivided into multiple subspecies, including Pararge aegeria aegeria, Pararge aegeria tircis, Pararge aegeria oblita, and Pararge aegeria insula. The color of this butterfly varies between subspecies. The existence of these subspecies is due to variation in morphology down a gradient corresponding to a geographic cline. 

The background of the wings ranges from brown to orange, and the spots are either pale yellow, white, cream, or a tawny orange. The speckled wood feeds on a variety of grass species. The males of this species exhibit two types of mate locating behaviors: territorial defense and patrolling. The proportion of males exhibiting these two strategies changes based on ecological conditions. The monandrous female must choose which type of male can help her reproduce successfully. Her decision is heavily influenced by environmental conditions.

6-4-2020 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - SAGE LEAVED ROCK ROSE (Cistus salviifolius)

6-4-2020 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - BOAR THISTLE (Galactites tomentosa)

24-5-2017 ALBACASAR, VALENCIA - COMMON HOUSE MARTIN (Delichon urbicum)

The Common house martin (Delichon urbicum) is a migratory passerine bird which breeds in Europe, North Africa and across the Palearctic; and winters in sub-Saharan Africa and tropical Asia. It feeds on insects that are caught in flight, and it migrates to climates where flying insects are plentiful. Both the scientific and colloquial names of the bird are related to its use of human-made structures. It builds a closed cup nest from mud pellets under eaves or similar locations on buildings usually in colonies.

The Common house martin is steel-blue above with a white rump, and white underparts, including the underwings; even its short legs have white downy feathering. It has brown eyes and a small black bill, and its toes and exposed parts of the legs are pink. The sexes are similar, but the juvenile bird is sooty black, and some of its wing coverts and quills have white tips and edgings.