27-3-2025 LEOPARD TRAILS LODGE, SRI LANKA - ORIENTAL GARDEN LIZARD ( Calotes versicolor)

The oriental garden lizard (Calotes versicolor), also called the eastern garden lizard, Indian garden lizard, common garden lizard, bloodsucker or changeable lizard, is an agamid lizard found widely distributed in Indo-Malaya. It has also been introduced in many other parts of the world.

Calotes versicolor is an insectivore, and the male gets a bright red throat in the breeding season. It measures over 10 cm (3.9 in) in length snout-to-vent. Total length including the tail is up to 37 cm (14.5 in). Two small groups of spines, perfectly separated from each other, above each tympanum. Dorsal crest moderately elevated on the neck and anterior part of the trunk, extending on to the root of the tail in large individuals, and gradually disappearing on the middle of the trunk in younger ones. No fold in front of the shoulder, but the scales behind the lower jaw are much smaller than the others; gular sac not developed. From thirty-nine to forty-three series of scales round the middle of the trunk. The hind foot (measured from the heel to the extremity of the fourth toe) is not much longer than the head in the adult, whilst it is considerably longer in the young. The coloration is very variable, sometimes uniform brownish or greyish-olive or yellowish. Generally broad brown bands across the back, interrupted by a yellowish lateral band. Black streaks radiate from the eye, and some of them are continued over the throat, running obliquely backwards, belly frequently with greyish longitudinal stripes, one along the median line being the most distinct; young and half-grown specimens have a dark, black-edged band across the inter-orbital region. 

The ground-colour is generally a light brownish olive, but the lizard can change it to bright red, to black, and to a mixture of both. This change is sometimes confined to the head, at other times diffused over the whole body and tail. A common state in which it may be seen (as stated by T. C. Jerdon) is, seated on a hedge or bush, with the tail and limbs black, head and neck yellow picked out with red, and the rest of the body red. Jerdon and Blyth agree that these bright, changeable colours are peculiar to the male during the breeding-season, which falls in the months of May to early October.

The female lays from five to sixteen soft oval eggs, about 5/8 of an inch long, in hollows of trees, or in holes in the soil which they have burrowed, afterward covering them up. The young appear in about eight or nine weeks. In a hot sunny day a solitary bloodsucker may be seen on a twig or on a wall, basking in the sun, with mouth wide open. After a shower of rain numbers of them are seen to come down on the ground and pick up the larva and small insects which fall from the trees during the showers.[3] Changeable lizards escape danger by darting to the nearest tree. If the predator comes even closer, they will scale to the side of the tree facing away from the predator and very swiftly dart up the tree. The predator looks behind the tree only to see that the lizard is up in the branches.

During the breeding season, the male's head and shoulders turns bright orange to crimson and his throat black. Males also turn red-headed after a successful battle with rivals. Both males and females have a crest from the head to nearly the tail, hence their other common name, "crested tree lizard".

Unlike some other lizards, they do not drop their tails (autotomy), and their tails can be very long, stiff and pointy. Like other reptiles, they shed their skins. Like chameleons, changeable lizards can move each of their eyes in different directions.

The native range of the species includes southeastern Iran, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, India (including the Andaman Islands), Indonesia (Sumatra), Malaysia (western), Maldives, Mauritius (Reunion, Rodrigues), Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, Sri Lanka (Ceylon), Thailand, Vietnam (including Pulo Condore Island). It has been introduced to Brunei, Celebes, Oman, Seychelles, Singapore and United States. The lizards were introduced to Singapore from Malaysia and Thailand in the 1980s. In Singapore, they are a threat to the native green-crested lizard.[4] The changeable lizard is relatively common and found in a wide range of habitats. They appear to adapt well to humans and are thus not endangered. They are commonly found among undergrowth, in open habitats as well as highly urban areas. However, in China people regularly kill them, as they are viewed as pests.

27-3-2025 LEOPARD TRAILS LODGE, SRI LANKA - COMMON PIERROT BUTTERFLY (Castalius rosimon)

The species is found in Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, India, Myanmar; Tenasserim, extending into the Malayan subregion. In the Indonesian archipelago the butterfly occurs in north-eastern Sumatra, Kalimantan, eastern Java, Bali, Bangka, Timor, Wetar, Kissar, Sumbawa and Sulawesi.

In India the butterfly is found south of the outer ranges of the Himalayas, except in desert tracts; east India; the north-west Himalayas; Assam. The butterfly is also found in the Andaman Islands and the southern Nicobar Islands.

27-3-2025 LEOPARD TRAILS LODGE, SRI LANKA - COMMON TIGER BUTTERFLY (Danaus genutia)

Danaus genutia, the common tiger, is one of the common butterflies of India. It belongs to the "crows and tigers", that is, the Danainae group of the brush-footed butterflies family. The butterfly is also called striped tiger in India to differentiate it from the equally common plain tiger, Danaus chrysippus. The species was first described by Pieter Cramer in 1779.

The butterfly closely resembles the monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) of the Americas. The wingspan is 70 to 95 millimetres (2.8 to 3.7 in). Both sexes of the butterfly have tawny wings with veins marked with broad black bands. The male has a pouch on the hindwing. The margins of the wings are black with two rows of white spots. The underside of the wings resembles the upperside but is paler in colouration. The male common tiger has a prominent black-and-white spot on the underside of the hindwing. In drier regions the tawny part of the hindwing pales and approaches white in colour making it very similar to the white tiger (D. melanippus).

D. genutia is distributed throughout India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar and extending to South-East Asia and Australia (except New Guinea). At least in the South Asian part of its range it is fairly common, locally very common.

This butterfly occurs in scrub jungles, fallow land adjacent to habitation, dry and moist deciduous forests, preferring areas of moderate to heavy rainfall. Also occurs in degraded hill slopes and ridges, both, bare or denuded, and, those covered with secondary growth.

While it is a strong flier, it never flies rapidly or high. It has stronger and faster strokes than the plain tiger. The butterfly ranges forth in search of its host and nectar plants. It visits gardens where it nectars on the flowers of Adelocaryum, Cosmos, Celosia, Lantana, Zinnia, and similar flowers.

27-3-2025 LEOPARD TRAILS LODGE, SRI LANKA - BLACK HOODED ORIOLE (Oriolus xanthornus)

The Black-hooded oriole (Oriolus xanthornus) is a colorful passerine bird that breeds in tropical southern Asia. These are birds of open woodlands and spend most of their time in the tree canopies.

The male of this species is striking, with the typical oriole black and yellow colouration. The plumage is predominantly yellow, with a solid black hood, and black also in the wings and tail centre. The female black-hooded oriole is a drabber bird with greenish underparts, but still has the black hood. Young birds are like the female, but have dark streaking on the underparts, and their hood is not solidly black, especially on the throat.

Black-hooded orioles breed from India and Sri Lanka east to Indonesia. They live in open woodlands, mangroves and cultivated areas.

Black-hooded orioles are shy, and even the male may be difficult to see in the dappled yellow and green leaves of the canopy. Their flight is somewhat like a thrush, strong and direct with some shallow dips over longer distances. Black-hooded orioles are diurnal and while foraging they use foliage-gleaning, wood-gleaning, or sallying methods.

Black-hooded orioles are carnivores (insectivores) and herbivores (frugivores). They feed on various insects and fruit, especially figs.

Little is known about the reproductive habits of Black-hooded orioles. They construct their nests in a tree, and females lay clutches of 2 eggs.

The black-hooded oriole (Oriolus xanthornus) is a member of the oriole family of passerine birds and is a resident breeder in tropical southern Asia from India and Sri Lanka east to Indonesia.

It is a bird of open woodland and cultivation. The nest is built in a tree, and contains two eggs. Its food is insects and fruit, especially figs, found in the tree canopies where they spend much of their time.

The male is striking, with the typical oriole black and yellow colouration. The plumage is predominantly yellow, with a solid black hood, and black also in the wings and tail centre.

The female black-hooded oriole is a drabber bird with greenish underparts, but still has the black hood. Young birds are like the female, but have dark streaking on the underparts, and their hood is not solidly black, especially on the throat.

The black head of this species is an obvious distinction from the Indian golden oriole, which is a summer visitor to northern India. Orioles can be shy, and even the male may be difficult to see in the dappled yellow and green leaves of the canopy.

The black-hooded oriole's flight is somewhat like a thrush, strong and direct with some shallow dips over longer distances.

While foraging the species uses foliage-gleening, wood-gleening, or sallying methods.

23-4-2025 CATARROJA, VALENCIA - BLACK WINGED STILT (Himantopus himantopus)

The Black-winged Stilt, Himantopus himantopus, is a slender wader known for its strikingly long, pink legs and contrasting black-and-white plumage. This elegant bird is a member of the avocet and stilt family, Recurvirostridae.

Adult Black-winged Stilts measure 33–36 cm in length. They possess a long, thin black bill and display a distinctive black and white coloration. The head and neck are predominantly white, with variable black markings depending on the sex and subspecies. Males typically have a glossy or greenish sheen on their black backs, while females exhibit a more brownish tinge. During flight, their long legs trail behind, and their wingbeats are steady.

These birds favor marshes, shallow lakes, and ponds as their breeding grounds. They are also known to inhabit coastal areas during migration and in the winter months.

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.

30-4-2025 EL HONDO, ALICANTE - LARGE MARSH HORSEFLY (Tabanus autumnalis)

Tabanus autumnalis, the large marsh horsefly, is a medium-sized species of biting horse-fly. It is somewhat scarce compared to T. bromius and T. bovinus. This species shows slightly more of a preference for coastal marsh than some of the other European Tabanus, sometime even found in saltmashes. Wing length is 13–16 mm and about 16–22 mm in body length.

27-3-2025 LEOPARD TRAILS LODGE, SRI LANKA - INDIAN ROBIN (FEMALE) (Copsychus fulicatus)

The Indian robin, Copsychus fulicatus, is a small passerine bird that is part of the Muscicapidae family. Exhibiting sexual dimorphism, the males are distinguished by their striking black plumage with a white shoulder patch, while the females are more subdued in coloration, with brownish-grey feathers. The species is known for its long tail, which is characteristically held upright, revealing the chestnut undertail coverts.

Males of the Indian robin can be identified by their black bodies and the white shoulder patch, which can vary in visibility. The northern subspecies have brownish upper plumage, which becomes progressively blacker as one moves southward. Females lack the white shoulder stripe and are greyish below. Juveniles resemble females but have a mottled throat.

The Indian robin favors open scrub areas, often found in stony, grassy, and scrub forest habitats. It tends to avoid dense forests and regions with high rainfall.

This bird is widespread across the Indian subcontinent, with its range extending through Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. It is a resident species, showing no migratory behavior.

30-4-2025 EL HONDO, ALICANTE - PIED AVOCET (Recurvirostra avosetta)

The pied avocet, Recurvirostra avosetta, presents a striking silhouette with its bold black and white plumage. This large wader, belonging to the avocet and stilt family, Recurvirostridae, is adorned with a distinctive black cap and black markings on its wings and back, contrasting sharply against its otherwise white body. The species is noted for its elegant, upturned bill and elongated, bluish legs, which add to its graceful demeanor.

Adult pied avocets measure approximately 16.5–17.75 inches in length, with a wingspan stretching around 30–31.5 inches. Their long legs and upturned bills, measuring about 2.95–3.35 inches and 3–4 inches respectively, are key features for identification. Both sexes appear similar, while juveniles can be distinguished by their more greyish and sepia tones.

These birds favor shallow lakes with brackish water and exposed mudflats, which provide ideal foraging and breeding grounds.

The pied avocet breeds across temperate Europe and extends across the Palearctic to Central Asia and the Russian Far East. It is a migratory species, with most individuals wintering in Africa or southern Asia. Some, however, remain in the milder parts of their range during winter, such as southern Spain and southern England.

Pied avocets forage in shallow waters or on mudflats, often employing a unique side-to-side scything motion with their bills to capture prey. They primarily consume crustaceans and insects. During the breeding season, they nest on open ground, often forming small groups and sometimes associating with other wader species. Their nests are typically lined scrapes or mounds of vegetation, where they lay three to five eggs.

The avocet's call is a distinctive, melodious "kluit kluit," which carries far across their watery habitats.

Pied avocets establish breeding territories in shallow brackish waters, where they lay their eggs in simple ground nests. These nests may be lined with materials or placed on mounds of vegetation to protect them from flooding.

While the pied avocet's unique plumage and bill shape make it quite distinctive, it could potentially be confused with other avocet species within the genus Recurvirostra. However, its black and white coloration and habitat preferences are usually sufficient for accurate identification.

The diet of the pied avocet consists mainly of crustaceans and insects, which they adeptly capture with their specialized bill.

The IUCN Red List classifies the pied avocet as Least Concern, indicating that, at present, the species does not face any imminent threats to its survival on a global scale.

30-4-2025 EL HONDO, ALICANTE - IBERIAN BLUETAIL DAMSELFLY (FEMALE) (Ischnura graellsii)

A fairly slender species, the posterior edge of the prothorax with a well-marked but slightly raised median tubercle; the forewings and hindwings have a similarly sized pterostigma, bicolor in the male; the abdomen is dorsally bronzed black, the 2nd segment of which bears a well-marked dorsal tubercle, and the 8th and part of the 9th segments are sky-blue in the male and greyish or greenish in the female; the 10th segment of the male bears a thick dorsal tubercle.

♂ Anal appendages: the cercoids are shorter than the cerci, uncrossed, with a sharp tip and an internal branch longer than the internal part; the cerci have an internal expansion.

Dimensions

♂ Abdomen, 20–23 mm; hindwing, 12–16 mm.

♀ Abdomen, 21–23 mm; hindwing, 14–16 mm.

Distribution is the  Iberian Peninsula; North Africa (north of the Atlas Mountains).

Widely distributed across most of the Iberian Peninsula, it is the most common and abundant zygopteran in many areas.

The larvae, which are almost always found in stagnant waters (ditches, ponds, marshes, etc.), can tolerate slightly brackish waters.

The flight period of this species, very common in the Iberian Peninsula, extends from March to September.

24-4-2025 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - PETITE WAVE MOTH (Scopula minorata)

Scopula minorata is a moth of the family Geometridae. It was described by Jean Baptiste Boisduval in 1833. It is found in Africa south of the Sahara, the Arabian Peninsula and on the islands of the Indian Ocean. Furthermore, it is found in southern Europe. It can be distinguished from Scopula lactaria only by examination of its genitalia.

The wingspan is 15–20 millimetres (0.59–0.79 in).

Subspecies

Scopula minorata minorata

Scopula minorata corcularia (Rebel, 1894)

Scopula minorata ochroleucaria (Herrich-Schäffer, 1847)

Scopula minorata tripolitana (Sterneck, 1933)

27-3-2025 YALA NAT PARK, SRI LANKA - ASIAN OPENBILL STORK (Anastomus oscitans)

The Asian openbill, a member of the stork family Ciconiidae, is a large wading bird recognized by its distinctive beak structure. The adult bird's beak features a notable gap between the arched upper mandible and the recurved lower mandible, a trait absent in the young. This species exhibits sexual dimorphism, with the males typically larger than the females. The plumage transitions from greyish during the non-breeding season to predominantly white in the breeding season, complemented by glossy black wings and tail with hints of green or purple iridescence.

To identify the Asian openbill, look for the unique gap in the adult's beak and its relatively small stature for a stork, standing at 68 cm in height. The bird's short legs range in color from pinkish to grey, turning reddish prior to breeding. In flight, the Asian openbill can be distinguished by its broad wings and neck outstretched, often mistaken for a white stork or Oriental stork from a distance.

Asian openbills frequent inland wetlands, avoiding river banks and tidal flats. They are adaptable, often seen foraging in crop fields, irrigation canals, and seasonal marshes.

This species is indigenous to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. It is a resident bird within its range but undertakes long-distance movements in response to climatic changes and food availability.

Asian openbills are gregarious, commonly found in flocks, though solitary individuals are not rare. They exhibit a soaring flight, utilizing thermals, and are known for their rapid descent into feeding areas.

The Asian openbill is typically silent but engages in a clattering duet during copulation. Low honking sounds accompanied by bill movements serve as a greeting between mates.

Breeding occurs post-monsoon, with the timing varying across their range. They build rough stick platforms for nests, often in colonies, and lay two to four eggs. Both parents share incubation duties, with chicks hatching after about 25 days.

The diet primarily consists of large molluscs, particularly snails. The Asian openbill has evolved a specialized beak to handle its prey effectively. It also consumes water snakes, frogs, and large insects.

The IUCN Red List classifies the Asian openbill as Least Concern, indicating a stable population without significant threats to its survival.

27-3-2025 YALA NAT PARK, SRI LANKA - 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 Little Egret can be confused with other white egrets, particularly the Snowy Egret, which shares some of its New World range. However, the Little Egret is larger and has more varied foraging strategies.

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.

27-3-2025 YALA NAT PARK, SRI LANKA - SRI LANKA RED WATTLED LAPWING (Vanellus indicus ssp. lankae)

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.

27-3-2025 YALA NAT PARK, SRI LANKA - JERDON'S BUSH LARK (Plocealauda affinis)

The Jerdon's bush lark, known scientifically as Mirafra affinis, is a modestly adorned avian species belonging to the Alaudidae family. It is a bird that captures the essence of the South Asian landscapes, with its understated beauty and harmonious existence within its environment.

When attempting to identify Jerdon's bush lark, one should look for the distinctive arrowhead-like spots pointing upwards on its breast. This species is often confused with the Indian bush lark, but keen observers will note the Jerdon's bush lark's buffy lores, less white behind the ear coverts, and darker centers to the wing coverts and central tail feathers. The primary coverts display dark centers that are quite prominent, and the wing panels are a duller rufous compared to its relatives. The subspecies found in the southern Western Ghats, known as the race ceylonensis, is darker and more rufous on the underside and boasts a longer bill. Overall, the underparts of Jerdon's bush lark are paler and greyish-brown.

This adaptable bird can be found in a variety of open habitats, which include the perimeters of forests, rocky scrublands, meadows on scrubby hills, clearings within open-type forests, shrub-edged fallow croplands, and dense bamboo thickets, up to an elevation of 1500 meters.

27-3-2025 YALA NAT PARK, SRI LANKA - TUFTED GREY LANGUR (Semnopithecus priam)

The tufted gray langur (Semnopithecus priam), also known as Madras gray langur, and Coromandel sacred langur, is an Old World monkey, one of the species of langurs. This, like other gray langurs, is mainly a leaf-eating monkey. It is found in southeast India and Sri Lanka. It is one of three Semnopithecus species named after characters from The Iliad, S. hector and S. ajax being the others. In Sinhala it is known as හැලි වදුරා (Heli wandura).

26-3-2025 YALA NAT PARK, SRI LANKA - MUGGER CROCODILE (Crocodylus palustris)

The mugger crocodile (Crocodylus palustris) is a medium-sized broad-snouted crocodile, also known as mugger and marsh crocodile. It is native to freshwater habitats from south-eastern Iran to the Indian subcontinent, where it inhabits marshes, lakes, rivers and artificial ponds. It rarely reaches a body length of 5 m (16 ft 5 in) and is a powerful swimmer, but also walks on land in search of suitable waterbodies during the hot season. Both young and adult mugger crocodiles dig burrows to which they retreat when the ambient temperature drops below 5 °C (41 °F) or exceeds 38 °C (100 °F). Females dig holes in the sand as nesting sites and lay up to 46 eggs during the dry season. The sex of hatchlings depends on temperature during incubation. Both parents protect the young for up to one year. They feed on insects, and adults prey on fish, reptiles, birds and mammals.

26-3-2025 YALA NAT PARK, SRI LANKA - INDIAN BLUE PEAFOWL (MALE) (Pavo cristatus)

The Indian peafowl, also known as the common peafowl or blue peafowl, is a species native to the Indian subcontinent. It is a bird of resplendent beauty, with the male, or peacock, showcasing a spectacular array of iridescent colors. The peacock's most striking feature is its fan-like crest of spatula-tipped wire-like feathers and the long train made up of elongated upper-tail covert feathers adorned with colorful eyespots. These feathers can be raised into a fan and quivered during courtship displays. Despite their size, peacocks are capable of flight. The female, or peahen, is more subdued in coloration, with a white face, iridescent green lower neck, and overall dull brown plumage.

The Indian peafowl is unmistakable within its range. The male has a metallic blue crown, a fan-shaped crest, and a spectacular train with eye-spot markings. The peahen is smaller, with a rufous-brown head, mottled upper body, and dark brown lower parts. The loud "pia-ow" or "may-awe" calls are distinctive and often indicate the presence of predators.

28-4-2025 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - MULLEIN WAVE MOTH (Scopula marginepunctata)

Scopula marginepunctata, the mullein wave, is a moth of the family Geometridae. It was described by Johann August Ephraim Goeze in 1781. It is found throughout Europe.

Scopula marginepunctata occurs in Europe from the Iberian Peninsula in the west to the Ural mountains in the east. In the north, the range extends to the south coast of England, the southern Netherlands and the German Baltic Sea coast. However the species is missing in parts of northern Germany. There are isolated occurrences on Bornholm, Skåne and the southern Baltic. In the south, the range extends in North Africa from Morocco in the west to Egypt. The distribution ranges from there further over the Middle East, Asia minor, the Caucasus, northern Iran, Central Asia and Mongolia.

28-4-2025 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - CRICKET BAT ORBWEAVER (Mangora acalypha)

Mangora acalypha, also known by its common name cricket-bat orbweaver, is a species of spider in the family Araneidae, found throughout the Palearctic realm. This species was originally described by Charles Athanase Walckenaer in 1802 as Aranea acalypha.

Mangora acalypha is common in meadows, forests and gardens.

Male 3 mm, female up to 6 mm. Prosoma light greenish, with black margin and median stripe. Sternum almost black. Legs yellowish. Tibia III with 2 rows of plumose trichobothria. Opisthosoma whitish yellow, rarely greenish, posteriorly with "Cricket Bat" marking consisting of 3 rows of black spots followed by longitudinal stripes, remaining pattern irregular, mostly consisting of longitudinal stripes. Ventrally black with 2 pairs of large, yellow spots.

Occurs on heathland and in open woodland. It can usually be found in the centre of its small but densely woven orb web, which is constructed on low vegetation such as heather and gorse.

Mature early in the season, adults occurring mainly from May to June.

The species has a widespread but patchy distribution in southern England and south Wales.

27-4-2025 LLUXTENT, VALENCIA - ROSY GARLIC (Allium roseum)

Allium roseum, commonly called rosy garlic, is an edible, Old World species of wild garlic. It is native to the Mediterranean region and nearby areas, with a natural range extending from Portugal and Morocco to Turkey and the Palestine region. It is cultivated widely, and has become naturalised in scattered locations in other regions outside its natural range.

Allium roseum grows naturally to about 18 inches (46 cm) high in well-drained soils, and in Europe blooms from late spring to early summer.

The inflorescences of A. roseum are umbels. The loose, fragrant florets are about 3 inches (76 mm) long, having six pinkish to lilac tepals.

The smell and flavour of the bulb is powerful enough to drive squirrels and browsing deer away from gardens, where they are planted as ornamental flowers. For this reason, they are suitable as companion plants to tulips and similar species.

26-3-2025 YALA NAT PARK, SRI LANKA - SRI LANKAN SPOTTED DEER (MALE) (Axis axis ssp. ceylonensis)

The chital or cheetal (Axis axis; /tʃiːtəl/), also called spotted deer, chital deer and axis deer, is a deer species native to the Indian subcontinent. It was first described by Johann Christian Polycarp Erxleben in 1777. A moderate-sized deer, male chital reach 90 cm (35 in) and females 70 cm (28 in) at the shoulder. While males weigh 70–90 kg (150–200 lb), females weigh around 40–60 kg (88–132 lb). It is sexually dimorphic; males are larger than females, and antlers are present only on males. The upper parts are golden to rufous, completely covered in white spots. The abdomen, rump, throat, insides of legs, ears, and tail are all white. The antlers, three-pronged, are nearly 1 m (3 ft 3 in) long.

The vernacular name "chital" (pronounced /tʃiːtəl/)[5] comes from cītal (Hindi: चीतल), derived from the Sanskrit word citrala (चित्रल), meaning "variegated" or "spotted". The name of the cheetah has a similar origin. Variations of "chital" include "cheetal" and "cheetul". Other common names for the chital are Indian spotted deer (or simply the spotted deer) and axis deer.

26-3-2025 YALA NAT PARK, SRI LANKA - BLACK HEADED IBIS (Threskiornis melanocephalus)

 The Black-headed Ibis, known scientifically as Threskiornis melanocephalus, presents a striking figure with its predominantly white plumage, sharply contrasting with its black head and neck. The species, also referred to as the Oriental White Ibis, Indian White Ibis, or Black-necked Ibis, is a large wader, with adults typically ranging from 65 to 76 cm in length. Its tail is adorned with light grey ornamental feathers that turn a deep black during the breeding season, adding to its distinctive appearance.

To identify the Black-headed Ibis, look for the characteristic naked black head and neck, and the down-curved black beak. During the breeding season, you may notice bare patches under the wing turning a vivid blood-red, and some adults may exhibit a blueish tinge on the head or, more rarely, a pink or bright red patch behind the neck. Juveniles can be distinguished by their greyish neck and speckled brown-grey wings and back.

This adaptable bird frequents a variety of habitats, both natural and man-made. It can be found in freshwater and saltwater marshes, lakes, ponds, rice fields, crop fields, irrigation canals, riversides, reservoirs, urban lakes, open sewage gutters, grazing lots, and even garbage dumping sites.

The Black-headed Ibis breeds across South and Southeast Asia, from India to Japan. It is a native resident in countries such as Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam. It is also known to migrate or appear as a vagrant in Japan, Korea, Laos, and Mongolia.

The species exhibits a seasonal preference for different foraging habitats, particularly in agricultural landscapes. In summer, it favors natural marshes and fallow fields, while during the monsoon, it disperses more widely into agricultural fields. In regions with more forests and rocky hills, wetlands remain the preferred habitat throughout the year.

The Black-headed Ibis is generally silent, lacking a true voice-producing mechanism. However, it does produce ventriloquistic grunts, particularly by pairs at the nest.

Breeding occurs only during the rainy season. The ibis nests in heronry colonies near wetlands, constructing platform nests of sticks lined with grass and threads. In urban areas, old trees are often utilized for both roosting and nesting.

26-3-2025 YALA NAT PARK, SRI LANKA - PAINTED STORK (Mycteria leucocephala)

The painted stork (Mycteria leucocephala) is a large wader in the stork family. It is found in the wetlands of the plains of tropical Asia south of the Himalayas in the Indian Subcontinent and extending into Southeast Asia. Their distinctive pink tertial feathers of the adults give them their name. They forage in flocks in shallow waters along rivers or lakes. They immerse their half open beaks in water and sweep them from side to side and snap up their prey of small fish that are sensed by touch. As they wade along they also stir the water with their feet to flush hiding fish. They nest colonially in trees, often along with other waterbirds. The only sounds they produce are weak moans or bill clattering at the nest. They are not migratory and only make short-distance movements in some parts of their range in response to changes in weather or food availability or for breeding. Like other storks, they are often seen soaring on thermals.

This large stork has a heavy yellow beak with a down-curved tip that gives it a resemblance to an ibis. The head of the adult is bare and orange or reddish in colour. The long tertials are tipped in bright pink and at rest they extend over the back and rump. There is a distinctive black breast band with white scaly markings. The band continues into the under-wing coverts and the white tips of the black coverts give it the appearance of white stripes running across the under-wing lining.

The rest of the body is whitish in adults and the primaries and secondaries are black with a greenish gloss. The legs are yellowish to red but often appear white due their habit of urohidrosis or defecating on their legs especially when at rest. The short tail is black with a green gloss. For a stork, it is medium-sized, standing about 93–102 cm (36.5–40 in) tall, 150–160 cm (59–63 in) in wingspan and weighing 2–3.5 kg (4.4–7.7 lb). Males and females appear alike but the males of a pair are usually larger than the female.

The downy young are mainly whitish with grey bills and blackish facial skin. The juveniles assume a brownish plumage and like most other storks reach breeding condition after two to three years.

Like all storks, they fly with their neck outstretched. They often make use of the late morning thermals to soar in search of foraging areas. Like other storks they are mostly silent but clatter their bills at nest and may make some harsh croaking or low moaning sounds at nest.

27-4-2025 LLUXTENT, VALENCIA - COMMON POPPY (Papaver rhoeas)

Papaver rhoeas, with common names including common poppy, corn poppy, corn rose, field poppy, Flanders poppy, red poppy, and Odai, is an annual herbaceous species of flowering plant in the poppy family Papaveraceae. It is native to north Africa and temperate Eurasia and is introduced into temperate areas on all other continents except Antarctica.

It is regarded as an agricultural weed (hence the common names including "corn" and "field"). As the plant thrives in areas of disturbed soil, it was often abundant in agricultural fields before the advent of herbicides. Flushes of poppies may still appear in fields where herbicides are not used, as well as those in fallow. The corn poppy and its cultivars such as the Shirley poppy are widely grown in gardens, and are frequently found in packets of seed labelled "wildflower mixes". Since World War I, it has been used in the Commonwealth as a symbol of remembrance for fallen soldiers because it commonly grew in fields disturbed by war.

Papaver rhoeas is a variable, erect annual, forming a long-lived soil seed bank that can germinate when the soil is disturbed. In the Northern Hemisphere it generally flowers in late spring (between May and October in the UK) but if the weather is warm enough other flowers frequently appear at the beginning of autumn. It grows up to about 70 centimetres (28 inches) in height. The stems hold single flowers, which are large and showy, 5–10 cm (2–4 in) across,  with four petals that are vivid red, most commonly with a black spot at their base. The petals slightly overlap each other. The plant can produce up to 400 flowers in a warm season, that last only one day. The flower stem is usually covered with coarse hairs that are held at right angles to the surface, helping to distinguish it from P. dubium in which the hairs are more usually appressed (i.e. held close to the stem). The capsules are hairless, obovoid (egg-shaped), less than twice as tall as they are wide, with a stigma at least as wide as the capsule. Like many other species of Papaver, the plant exudes white to yellowish latex when the tissues are broken. 

Not all corn poppies that are available commercially have red flowers. Selective breeding has resulted in cultivars in yellow, orange, pink, and white. The Shirley poppy is a well-known cultivar. A very pale speckled variety, derived from the Shirley, is also available.

A nearly black-flowering hybrid, known as 'Evelina', was bred in Italy in the late 1990s, with P. dubium, but does not appear to be available commercially.

27-4-2025 MONTAVERNER, VALENCIA - CORN BUNTING (Emberiza calandra)

The corn bunting (Emberiza calandra) is a robust passerine bird, a member of the bunting family Emberizidae. It is distinguished by its heavily streaked buff-brown plumage. Both sexes are similar in appearance, though the male is slightly larger than the female. This bird is often likened to larks due to its streaked appearance and shares the same open habitat preference.

When observing the corn bunting, look for a large bunting with a dark eye and yellowish mandibles. The bird's lack of showy colors, particularly on the head, sets it apart from other Emberiza species. The underparts are streaked across the flanks and breast, with the streaking forming a gorget around the throat. Notably, the lesser wing coverts are dark with white tips, and the tail is a plain brown.

The corn bunting is typically found in open country with trees, such as farmland and weedy wasteland. It prefers areas where it can forage for seeds and insects on the ground.

This species has a wide range, extending from Western Europe and North Africa to northwestern China. It is mainly resident, but some populations in colder regions migrate southwards in winter.

The corn bunting is known for its territorial behavior during the breeding season. Males can be polygynous, with some having up to three females. The sex ratio is generally balanced, leading to some males remaining unmated each season. Males contribute minimally to parental care, only feeding the chicks when they are more than half-grown.

The male corn bunting's song is a distinctive metallic sound, often compared to the jangling of keys. This song is typically delivered from an elevated perch such as a low bush, fence post, or telephone wire.

The corn bunting's nest is constructed from grass and lined with hair or fine grass, usually situated on the ground. Clutch sizes average four eggs but can range from three to six. Males are not involved in nest building or incubation but may feed the chicks at later stages.

The diet of the corn bunting consists mainly of seeds, supplemented by insects like crickets, which are particularly important when feeding young.

The corn bunting is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN. However, it has experienced significant declines in parts of north-west Europe due to intensive agriculture. Conservation efforts, such as those by Natural England, offer grants to support measures that help conserve this species.