28-3-2025 BUNDALA NAT PARK, SRI LANKA - GREY HEADED SWAMPHEN (Porphyrio poliocephalus)

The Grey-headed Swamphen, Porphyrio poliocephalus, presents a striking figure with its slate-grey head and neck, contrasting with the deep blue of its body. This species, once considered a mere subspecies of the Purple Swamphen, has since 2015 been recognized as a full species in its own right.

To identify the Grey-headed Swamphen, look for its large size and robust build, with long legs and toes that are well-adapted to its wetland habitat. The male and female are similar in appearance, though the male may perform an elaborate courtship display.

This bird is typically found in wetlands, where it can be seen wading through shallow waters or striding along the marshy banks.

The Grey-headed Swamphen ranges from the Middle East and the Indian subcontinent to southern China and northern Thailand. Notably, an introduced population has established itself in southern Florida, North America.

Males engage in a unique courtship ritual, brandishing water weeds in their bills and bowing to females with a series of loud chuckles, a display that is as endearing as it is peculiar.

The vocalizations of this species during courtship are characterized by loud chuckling sounds, which are part of the male's display to woo the female.

28-3-2025 BUNDALA NAT PARK, SRI LANKA - TOQUE MACAQUE (Macaca sinica)

This smallest macaque is a native Sri Lankan species with a golden-brown fur. The local people call Toque Macaque the “Rilawa”. The most characteristic feature of this primate is the toque-like swirl of hair on its head top. As a matter of fact, their physiological characteristics vary greatly, depending on climatic conditions. Thus, populations in cooler climate exhibit thick, dark brown coat as well as relatively short limbs and tails. Meanwhile, those inhabiting lowland rainforests typically display reddish or golden fur and longer bonnets. Populations in drier habitats have lighter fur, noticeably longer legs and tails as well as shorter swirl of hair on their head.

The Toque macaques are native and endemic exclusively to Sri Lanka, where they generally occupy three types of habitat, hence can be divided into three subspecies. These are: the Common toque macaque, occurring in dry habitat; the Pale-fronted toque macaque, inhabiting wet areas; and the Hill-zone toque macaque, found at high elevations.

These primates are generally tree-dwelling creatures. The Toque macaques are highly social animals, living in units of up to 40 individuals, which remain in the group for a long period of time. However, young males are known to occasionally move between groups. As a general rule, these social units contain twice as many females as males. Each group consists of 50% mature individuals and 50% infants and juveniles. Individuals of both genders have certain responsibilities within a group. Males are the leaders of the groups, settling conflicts between juveniles, whereas females raise offspring. The Toque macaques live in a well-defined dominance hierarchy system, where the oldest male is usually the most dominant one, followed by lower-ranked members of the community: sub-adult males, adult females and then juveniles. As diurnal animals, the Toque macaques perceive their environment mainly through vision, which is even used to identify a food source. A large part of their active time is spent looking for food.

Toque macaques are polygynandrous (promiscuous) with both males and females, mating with multiple partners. These primates breed during the summer months, generally from July to September, although breeding period largely depends on geographical range. Gestation period lasts for 5 - 6 months, yielding one infant, which is cared mainly by its mother. Females form groups of infants so that young can play together and socialize. Usually, young of the same age play together. Overall, females of this species are known to be very attentive mothers, protecting their offspring from threats. Infants are weaned at 170 days and become independent at 2 years of age. Females are ready to bread at 5 years of age, while males become reproductively mature at 7 years of age.

28-3-2025 BUNDALA NAT PARK, SRI LANKA - PONDICHERI FAN THROATED LIZARD (Sitana ponticeriana)

Sitana ponticeriana, the Pondichéry fan-throated lizard, is a species of agamid lizard found in eastern peninsular India. It was earlier thought to be widespread but studies in 2016 resulted in the splitting of the group into several species placed in two genera. The genus Sitana has an enlarged projecting scale on the posterior side of the hind thigh which is absent in the sister genus Sarada.

The species is found mostly on the ground in open ground patches in thin forests. When disturbed this lizard sometimes runs with a bipedal gait.

This species occurs in eastern parts of peninsular India, along the Coromandel Coast. It may be distributed in parts of Sri Lanka.

Researchers discovered a new species of colourful fan-throated lizard from the coastal areas of Thiruvananthapuram. This new species belongs to the genus Sitana, and has been named Sitana attenboroughii after David Attenborough, veteran broadcaster and naturalist, and Sitana marudhamneydhal.

Breeding in Sitana ponticeriana occurs during the warmer months, where males engage in an impressive mating display to attract females and ward off rivals. They extend their colorful throat fan (dewlap), bob their heads, and chase competitors. After successful mating, females dig small holes in soft soil to lay their eggs, leaving them in the nest to hatch after a few weeks.

The Fan-Throated Lizard plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems like grasslands and scrublands. One of its key contributions is insect control, as it feeds on ants, beetles, and other small insects. By managing insect populations, the lizard prevents them from overwhelming plant life, ensuring the health and stability of these habitats.

Additionally, this lizard contributes to soil health. When it digs small holes to lay its eggs, it helps aerate the soil, allowing water and nutrients to penetrate more easily to plant roots. This process supports overall plant growth and soil quality, further promoting a balanced ecosystem.

In the food chain, the Fan-Throated Lizard acts both as prey and predator. It is a food source for various birds, snakes, and larger reptiles, making it an important link in predator-prey dynamics. On the other hand, by feeding on insects, it keeps their populations in check, preventing potential pest outbreaks.

28-3-2025 BUNDALA NAT PARK, SRI LANKA - CROWN FLOWER (Calotropis gigantea)

Calotropis gigantea, the crown flower, is a species of Calotropis native to Cambodia, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Malaysia, 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.

This plant plays host to a variety of insects and butterflies. It is the host plant for Hawaii's non-migratory monarch butterflies. Calotropis is an example of entomophily pollination (pollination by insects) and pollination is achieved with the help of bees. In Calotropis, gynostegium is present (formed by the fusion of stigma and androecium). The pollen are in a structure named pollinia which is attached to a glandular, adhesive disc at the stigmatic angle (translator mechanism). These sticky discs get attached to the legs of visiting bees that pull out pollinia when a bee moves away. When such a bee visits another flower, this flower might be pollinated by the pollinium.

28-3-2025 BUNDALA NAT PARK, SRI LANKA - SHELL MOUND PRICKLY PEAR (Opuntia stricta)

Opuntia stricta is a species of large cactus that is endemic to the subtropical and tropical coastal areas of the Americas, especially around the Caribbean. Common names include erect prickly pear and nopal estricto (Spanish). The first description as Cactus strictus was published in 1803 by Adrian Hardy Haworth. In 1812 he moved the species to the genus Opuntia.

It is a shrubby, erect plant, extending lengthwise to somewhat upright and reach heights of growth up to 2 m (6.6 ft) in height, producing lemon yellow flowers in the spring and summer, followed by purplish-red fruits. It is quick to colonize hot, open environments with sandy soils. The blue-green shoot sections are bald, flattened, ovate to inverted egg-shaped, and are tapered at the base. They are 25 to 64 cm (10 to 25 inches) long and 15 to 64 cm (6 to 25 inches) inches wide. The brownish areoles are far apart leaving most of the epidermis, with often one or more yellowish spines, at least near the edges and towards the apex. They carry striking, yellow glochids that are 2 to 6 mm (0.079 to 0.236 inches) long. The 1 to 5 awl-shaped spur is flattened, provided with a light barb at the top thorns are yellow. They are perpendicular to the surface of the shoots and are 1.3 to 12.7 cm (0.5 to 5 inches) long

The yellow to yellowish orange flowers, which are solitary and formed by numerous membranous parts, reach a length of 13 to 15 cm (5 to 6 inches) and a diameter of 10 to 15 cm (4 to 6 inches). The flowers are ephemeral and melliferous. The purple-red, smooth fruits are inverted-egg-shaped and tapered at the base. They are 6.4 to 8.9 cm (2.5 to 3.5 inches) inches long and covered with plenty of glochids and are more or less pyriform, always purple in color, 4 to 6 cm (1.6 to 2.4 inches) in length and contain from 60 to 180 seeds (which may remain viable for more than 10 years), yellow to light brown, incorporated into the fruit pulp. As fruits are appreciated by birds and mammals, their seeds are dispersed by animals. The mucilage inside the leaves is used to treat burns and abscesses. It is edible in the same way as fruits.

Opuntia stricta occurs naturally in coastal beach scrub and sandy coastal environments in South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Louisiana along the Gulf Coast in Texas, Mississippi, and Alabama in the United States, as well as Bermuda, the Caribbean, eastern Mexico, Central America, and northern South America (in Venezuela and Ecuador). O. stricta is a major component in the understory of Bahamian dry forests in the Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands.

28-3-2025 BUNDALA NAT PARK, SRI LANKA - SRI LANKAN HOUSE CROW (Corvus splendens ssp. protegatus)

The House Crow, Corvus splendens, is a bird of moderate size, measuring about 40 cm in length, and presents a slimmer profile than its relatives, the jackdaw and the carrion crow. Exhibiting a striking contrast in its plumage, the bird's head, throat, and upper breast are adorned with a rich, glossy black, while the neck and lower breast are cloaked in a lighter grey-brown. Its wings, tail, and legs are of a deep black, completing its distinctive appearance.

To identify the House Crow, look for the combination of its black and grey plumage, with the grey extending around the neck forming a collar. This collar's shade varies among subspecies, ranging from pale to dark grey. The bird's bill and plumage coloration also show regional variations.

The House Crow is closely associated with human settlements, thriving in environments ranging from small villages to bustling cities. It has adapted remarkably well to urban life, often seen foraging in marketplaces and garbage dumps.

4-5-2025 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - WESTERN CLUBTAIL DRAGONFLY (Gomphus pulchellus)

Gomphus pulchellus, the western clubtail, is a species of dragonfly in the family Gomphidae. It is found in Western Europe, although absent in the British isles. Its natural habitat are clean ponds and canals, clay and mud holes.

The species is 47–50 mm long. It is the only Gomphidae that lacks the "club-shaped" abdomen, in spite of its name. As an adult, it is mainly pale olive-green with blue eyes.

It emerges early in spring, can be seen as soon as the end of March in the South of France and flies until August depending on the location.

28-3-2025 BUNDALA 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 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.

3-5-2025 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - WAVE MOTH (idaea cervantaria)

Idaea, sometimes called Hyriogona (among other synonyms), is a large genus of geometer moths. It was erected by Georg Friedrich Treitschke in 1825. They are found nearly worldwide, with many native to the Mediterranean, the African savannas, and the deserts of western Asia.

As of 2013, there were about 680 species in the genus.

3-5-2025 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - PAINTED LADY BUTTERFLY (Vanessa cardui)

Vanessa cardui is the most widespread of all butterfly species. It is commonly called the painted lady, or formerly in North America the cosmopolitan.

V. cardui is one of the most widespread of all butterflies, found on every continent except Antarctica and South America. In Australia, V. cardui has a limited range around Bunbury, Fremantle, and Rottnest Island. However, its close relative, the Australian painted lady (V. kershawi, sometimes considered a subspecies) ranges over half the continent. Other closely related species are the American painted lady (V. virginiensis) and the West Coast lady (V. annabella).

Larvae feed on Asteraceae species, including Cirsium, Carduus, Centaurea, Arctium, Onopordum, Helianthus, and Artemisia.

The painted lady uses over 300 recorded host plants according to the HOSTS database.

Adult butterflies feed on flower nectar and aphid honeydew.

28-3-2025 BUNDALA NAT PARK, SRI LANKA - PAINTED STORK (Mycteria leucocephala)

The Painted Stork (Mycteria leucocephala) is a large wader belonging to the stork family. It is easily recognized by its heavy yellow beak with a down-curved tip, reminiscent of an ibis. The adult's head is bare and exhibits a vibrant orange or reddish hue. Notably, the long tertials are tipped in bright pink, which gracefully extend over the back and rump when the bird is at rest. A distinctive black breast band adorned with white scaly markings is present, continuing into the under-wing coverts. The white tips of the black coverts create the illusion of white stripes running across the under-wing lining. The rest of the body is predominantly whitish in adults, with black primaries and secondaries that have a greenish gloss. The legs range from yellowish to red, often appearing white due to the habit of urohidrosis. The short tail is black with a green gloss. This medium-sized stork stands about 93–102 cm tall, spans 150–160 cm across the wings, and weighs 2–3.5 kg. Males and females are similar in appearance, though males are typically larger.

When identifying the Painted Stork, look for the pink tertial feathers, the black breast band with white scaly markings, and the heavy yellow beak with a down-curved tip. In flight, they are distinguished by their outstretched neck and the white stripes across the under-wing. Juveniles are brownish with grey bills and lack the vibrant adult coloration.

The Painted Stork (Mycteria leucocephala) is a large wader belonging to the stork family. It is easily recognized by its heavy yellow beak with a down-curved tip, reminiscent of an ibis. The adult's head is bare and exhibits a vibrant orange or reddish hue. Notably, the long tertials are tipped in bright pink, which gracefully extend over the back and rump when the bird is at rest. A distinctive black breast band adorned with white scaly markings is present, continuing into the under-wing coverts. The white tips of the black coverts create the illusion of white stripes running across the under-wing lining. The rest of the body is predominantly whitish in adults, with black primaries and secondaries that have a greenish gloss. The legs range from yellowish to red, often appearing white due to the habit of urohidrosis. The short tail is black with a green gloss. This medium-sized stork stands about 93–102 cm tall, spans 150–160 cm across the wings, and weighs 2–3.5 kg. Males and females are similar in appearance, though males are typically larger.

When identifying the Painted Stork, look for the pink tertial feathers, the black breast band with white scaly markings, and the heavy yellow beak with a down-curved tip. In flight, they are distinguished by their outstretched neck and the white stripes across the under-wing. Juveniles are brownish with grey bills and lack the vibrant adult coloration.

Painted Storks favor freshwater wetlands, but they also frequent irrigation canals and agricultural fields, particularly during the monsoon when rice fields are flooded.

These birds are found across the plains of tropical Asia, from the Indian Subcontinent extending into Southeast Asia, south of the Himalayas. They are absent from arid regions, dense forests, and higher hill areas.

Painted Storks are sociable birds, often seen foraging in flocks in shallow waters. They employ a tactile method of feeding, sweeping their half-open beaks side to side in the water to catch small fish. They are known to stir the water with their feet to flush out hiding fish. These storks are not migratory but may move short distances in response to weather or food availability, or for breeding purposes. At the nest, they communicate with weak moans or bill clattering.

The Painted Stork is mostly silent, but at the nest, it may produce weak moans or engage in bill clattering.

They nest colonially in trees, often alongside other waterbirds. The breeding season varies by region, with nest initiation ranging from mid-August in northern India to October in southern India. Clutch size can vary from one to five eggs, with incubation lasting about a month and fledging taking nearly two months.

Their diet consists mainly of small fish, which they sense by touch. They may also consume frogs and occasionally snakes. They forage primarily during the day but can also feed at night under certain conditions.

The Painted Stork is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN. However, some populations, particularly along the Indus River system, are endangered, and conservation efforts are necessary to protect nesting colonies and prevent the illegal bird trade.

28-3-2025 BUNDALA NAT PARK, SRI LANKA - EURASIAN SPOONBILL (Platalea leucorodia)

The Eurasian spoonbill, or common spoonbill, is a wading bird belonging to the ibis and spoonbill family Threskiornithidae. Its scientific name is Platalea leucorodia, with "Platalea" reflecting the broad, spoon-like bill and "leucorodia" originating from Greek, meaning "white heron." This species is almost unmistakable within its range, with adult breeding plumage being predominantly white, save for dark legs, a black bill with a yellow tip, and a distinctive yellow breast patch akin to that of a pelican. It also sports a crest during the breeding season.

In flight, the Eurasian spoonbill can be recognized by its outstretched neck, contrasting with the retracted necks of herons. Non-breeding adults lack the crest and breast patch, while juveniles have a paler bill and black-tipped primary flight feathers. The species is distinguishable from the African spoonbill in winter by the latter's red face and legs and absence of a crest.

Eurasian spoonbills favor extensive, shallow wetlands with muddy or fine sandy substrates. They are found in various marshes, rivers, lakes, floodplains, bogs, and mangrove swamps, indifferent to the salinity of the water. They are particularly drawn to undisturbed islets for nesting and areas with dense vegetation and scattered trees for shelter.

The Eurasian spoonbill has a broad range across Europe, Asia, and Africa. In Europe, it is found from the United Kingdom and Portugal to Denmark and the Balkans. Its Asian range extends from the Black Sea to the Korean Peninsula, and in Africa, it is present from Mauritania to the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden coasts.

The species exhibits varying migratory patterns, with more northerly populations migrating south for the winter, while others remain resident or move locally. Eurasian spoonbills typically breed in spring or according to rainfall patterns in tropical regions. They forage alone or in small flocks and roost communally, often far from feeding areas.

Eurasian spoonbills are generally silent, with the occasional sounds at breeding colonies including bill snapping, deep grunting, and rare trumpeting noises.

Nesting occurs on the ground or in vegetation, with nests closely packed within colonies. These colonies are usually situated near feeding grounds. The species breeds in single-species colonies or small groups within mixed-species colonies.

Their diet consists of aquatic insects, mollusks, newts, crustaceans, worms, leeches, frogs, tadpoles, and small fish. They feed by sweeping their bills through the water to filter out prey.

28-3-2025 BUNDALA NAT PARK, SRI LANKA - COMMON GREENSHANK (Tringa nebularia)

The Common Greenshank, Tringa nebularia, presents itself as a graceful wader from the extensive Scolopacidae family. Its name, derived from the Neo-Latin term for the green sandpiper and the Latin for "mist," alludes to its marshy dwellings. In breeding plumage, it dons a brown attire, while in winter, it adopts a more subdued grey-brown. Notably larger than its cousin, the Common Redshank, it boasts long greenish legs and a long bill with a grey base, which appears upturned when the bird is in water.

Upon sighting, one may observe the white wedge on its back during flight. The bill's shape is distinctive, and its size is a helpful indicator, being somewhat larger than the Common Redshank. The bird's call, a rapid succession of three short fluty notes, can be transcribed as "teu-teu-teu."

The Common Greenshank favors dry ground adjacent to marshy areas for breeding, indicative of its preference for damp environments.

28-3-2025 BUNDALA NAT PARK, SRI LANKA - STRIATED HERON (Butorides striata)

The Striated Heron, also known as the Mangrove Heron, Little Green Heron, or Green-backed Heron, is a diminutive member of the heron family. It stands approximately 44 cm tall and is characterized by its blue-grey back and wings, white underparts, and a distinctive black cap. A dark line extends from the bill to under the eye, and the bird's legs are short and yellow. Juveniles display a browner plumage above and are streaked below.

Adult Striated Herons can be identified by their blue-grey plumage on the back and wings, contrasted with white underparts. The black cap and the line extending from the bill under the eye are key features. Their yellow legs are relatively short. Juveniles are distinguishable by their browner and streaked appearance.

The Striated Heron favors small wetlands within the Old World tropics, ranging from West Africa to Japan and Australia, as well as in South America and the Caribbean.

This species is mostly sedentary, with its range encompassing the Old World tropics from West Africa to Japan and Australia, and extending to South America and the Caribbean. Vagrants have been recorded on various Oceanic islands.

The Striated Heron is known for its patient hunting strategy, standing motionless at the water's edge to ambush prey. It is more visible than many of its small heron counterparts. Intriguingly, it has been observed using bait, such as a feather or leaf, to attract fish.

The Striated Heron's nest is a platform of sticks, often located in shrubs or trees near water, though sometimes on the ground in sheltered areas. The clutch consists of 2-5 pale blue eggs. Unique behaviors have been noted at the nest, such as an adult bird making rapid sewing machine-like motions with a stick, though the purpose of this behavior remains a mystery.

The diet of the Striated Heron primarily includes small fish, frogs, and aquatic insects. They are known to use baiting techniques to catch fish.

The Striated Heron is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating that it is widespread and generally common. This status is maintained regardless of whether the Lava Heron is included as a subspecies or not.

2-5-2025 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - BLAIR'S MOCHA MOTH

Cyclophora puppillaria, or Blair's mocha, is a moth of the family Geometridae. The species was first described by Jacob Hübner in 1799. It can be found in Europe and from North Africa up to the Caucasus area.

The wingspan is 28–36 mm in the first generation; the second and any subsequent generations are on average much smaller often only 19 mm. Front and hindwings have almost the same colour. This is however very variable and ranges usually from reddish brown to reddish yellow and light brown. Some specimens are sand coloured, brown or orange. Also, the pattern is very variable. The inner and outer cross lines, as well as the median band can be very well developed, but also almost completely missing. The interior cross line, but especially the outer cross line is often replaced by a row of dots. The discal spots on the front and rear wings can be large, small or completely absent. In specimens with large discal spots, these are often with white pupils. The front wing margin stains present on the hindwings, but mostly absent. The basal half of the costa is often dark. Where the inner and outer cross line reach the costal of the forewings, noticeable spots are usually developed. The fringes usually have the colour of the wings. The subspecies lilacinipes of Madeira has a dark fringe.

The moths fly from June to October depending on the location.

The larvae feed on oak.

2-5-2025 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - GOLDWING MOTH (Synthymia fixa)

Synthymia is a genus of moths of the family Noctuidae. It contains only one species, Synthymia fixa, The Goldwing, which is found in southern Europe and North Africa.

Forewing ash grey in the male, darker, slightly greenish grey in the female the outer half of wing suffused with brownish, the whole speckled with black; orbicular stigma oval, grey in a whitish ring, placed vertically at the edge of the grey basal space; reniform also vertical, an elongate figure of 8, white with dark grey centres; space between them crossed by a deep brown band, sometimes velvety brown in cell, the median vein showing white across it; inner and outer lines brownish, ill-defined; the inner waved, nearly vertical, the outer sinuous edged by grey and on the costa whitish; subterminal line thick, whitish; fringe dark-mottled; hindwing orange, deeper in female than in male; the base diffusely dark; terminal border olive brown, broad at apex, with traces of a submarginal line on inner margin; in the male more fuscous tinged, with traces of outer and submarginal lines; in the ab. griseofusa ab.nov. (= ab. 2. Hmps.) the whole of the hindwing is fuscous. Larva dark green, the dorsum lighter; dorsal and subdorsal lines pale yellow, edged with dark green; lateral stripe white, broad, with dark upper edge; head small, yellowish; thoracic plate black; anal plate brown. The wingspan is 37–40 mm.

Adults are on wing from April to July. There is one generation per year.

The larvae feed on the flowers of Psoralea bituminosa.

28-3-2025 BUNDALA NAT PARK, SRI LANKA - COMMON REDSHANK (Tringa totanus)

The Common Redshank, Tringa totanus, is a Eurasian wader belonging to the large family Scolopacidae. Exhibiting a striking change in plumage, they don a marbled brown color during the breeding season, which transitions to a plainer greyish-brown above and whitish below in the winter. Their legs are a vibrant red, complemented by a black-tipped red bill. In flight, they reveal a distinctive white pattern up the back and on the wings.

To identify the Common Redshank, look for the red legs and the black-tipped red bill, which are characteristic of the species. The white trailing edge on the wings is also a key feature, particularly visible during flight. In breeding plumage, they exhibit a marbled brown coloration, while in winter, they adopt a less patterned greyish-brown and whitish color scheme.

Redshanks are versatile in their choice of wetland habitats, ranging from damp meadows to saltmarshes. They are often found in high densities within these environments.

This species is a widespread breeder across temperate Eurasia and migrates to winter on coasts around the Mediterranean, the Atlantic coast of Europe, and in South Asia. They are occasionally recorded as vagrants in areas such as Micronesia.

The Common Redshank is known for its wariness and its loud, piping call, which can serve as an alarm to other creatures in the vicinity.

Redshanks are not particular about their nesting sites, as long as the location is a wetland. They can nest at high densities and lay clutches of 3–5 eggs.

Their diet consists primarily of small invertebrates, which they forage for in their wetland habitats.

The IUCN considers the Common Redshank to be of Least Concern, indicating a stable population. However, it is listed as Vulnerable in Europe. The species is also protected under the Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds (AEWA).

The Spotted Redshank, T. erythropus, is similar but can be distinguished by its longer bill and legs. In breeding plumage, it is almost entirely black, and in winter, it is very pale, contrasting with the Common Redshank's seasonal coloration.

The Common Redshank's call is a distinctive, loud "teu-teu-teu," often heard as they take to the air in alarm or while in flight.

28-3-2025 BUNDALA NAT PARK, SRI LANKA - BLUE FACED MALKOHA (Phaenicophaeus viridirostris)

The Blue-faced Malkoha, or Phaenicophaeus viridirostris, is a non-parasitic member of the cuckoo family. This bird is distinguished by its waxy, dark blue-grey upperparts and a long tail adorned with graduated feathers tipped in white. Its throat and chin are dark, featuring spiny pale feathers that are branched, while the lower belly transitions to a dull creamy or rufous hue. A striking feature is the apple green bill, complemented by a naked patch of blue skin encircling the eye. Both sexes share a similar external appearance.

Adult Blue-faced Malkohas measure approximately 39 cm in length. They possess a dark grey back and head with an oily green or blue sheen, and their dark tail feathers are conspicuously tipped with white. The belly ranges from pale ochre to grey. The chin and throat feathers are unique, being branched with pointed, slightly yellowish tips, giving a streaked and spiny look. The eye is encircled by a large blue patch, with a white-fringed red iris. Juveniles can be identified by their duller upperparts and occasional brown wing feathers.

This species thrives in open forests and scrub jungle, favoring environments such as scrub and deciduous forests.

The Blue-faced Malkoha is native to peninsular India, extending south from Baroda and Cuttack, and inhabits a variety of habitats including semi-evergreen, dry deciduous, and open scrub forests. In Sri Lanka, it is typically found in the plains.

28-3-2025 BUNDALA NAT PARK, SRI LANKA - ROSE RINGED PARAKEET (Psittacula krameri)

The rose-ringed parakeet, also known as the ringneck parrot or Kramer parrot, is a medium-sized parrot with a striking appearance. Males are adorned with a pink and black neck ring, while females and young birds display a more subdued coloration with pale to dark grey neck rings or none at all. In the wild, these birds boast a vibrant green plumage, complemented by a red beak and a blue tail. Captive breeding has led to a kaleidoscope of color mutations, including turquoise, cinnamon, olive, white, blue, violet, grey, and yellow. The species measures approximately 40 cm in length, with the tail feathers making up a significant portion of this measurement.

Adult males can be identified by their distinctive neck rings. Both sexes exhibit a green coloration in their natural habitat, with a red beak and blue tail feathers. The average wing length ranges from 15 to 17.5 cm. When observing these parakeets, listen for their unmistakable squawking call, which is quite prominent in the wild.

The rose-ringed parakeet thrives in disturbed habitats and has shown remarkable adaptability to urban and deforested areas. It is one of the few parrot species that have successfully adapted to such environments.

28-3-2025 BUNDALA 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).

Males are larger than females. The average adult weighs 12.8 kg (28 lb) with a head-to-body length of 61.1 cm (24.1 in). The Indian subspecies is somewhat larger bodied than the Sri Lankan which typically weigh between 6.8 and 13.4 kg (15 and 30 lb).[6] Despite its somewhat slighter size there, the tufted gray langur is the largest native primate on Sri Lanka based on average sizes.

In Sri Lankan subspecies, dorsal area gray to brownish gray in color, getting darker with the age. Underparts are light grayish. Short whitish beard and sideburns present. The hairs of the crown form a distinct pointed tuft or crest, that meets at a central point, hence the name. Black eyebrows project outward. Head scarcely paler or not paler than back. Hands and feet are same color as limbs.

In Sri Lanka, tufted gray langurs are abundant in dry zone forests and also within human dwellings. Many numerous troops are found at archeologically important areas, such as Polonnaruwa, Dambulla, Anuradhapura, and Sigiriya. The animal is also found in southward of the island, such as Hambantota, Yala National Park, and Tissamaharama.

28-3-2025 BUNDALA 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.

The Jerdon's bush lark graces the landscapes of south-east India and Sri Lanka, with an estimated global extent of occurrence spanning 100,000 to 1,000,000 square kilometers.

The Jerdon's bush lark exhibits a song-flight that mirrors that of the Indian bush lark. However, it distinguishes itself by often perching on trees and wires, a behavior not commonly seen in its close relatives.

The vocal repertoire of the Jerdon's bush lark includes a dry rattle, which it delivers from its perch, adding a unique soundtrack to the regions it inhabits.

The Jerdon's bush lark is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating that, for now, this species does not face immediate threats to its survival.

In the spirit of Thomas C. Jerdon, the surgeon-naturalist after whom this bird is named, we continue to observe and appreciate the subtle intricacies of the Jerdon's bush lark, a bird that so elegantly embodies the essence of the South Asian avifauna.

30-4-2025 EL HONDO, ALICANTE - MARBLED TEAL (Marmaronetta angustirostris)

The Marbled Duck, or Marbled Teal, is a medium-sized duck adorned with a pale sandy-brown plumage, intricately mottled with off-white markings. Its scientific name, Marmaronetta angustirostris, reflects its marbled appearance and narrow bill. The species is characterized by a distinctive dark eye-patch and a somewhat shaggy head. Adults span approximately 39–42 cm in length, with females typically being slightly smaller than males. Juveniles resemble adults but exhibit more pronounced off-white blotching.

When identifying the Marbled Duck, look for its unique pale coloration and marbled pattern. The lack of a speculum on the secondaries and the pale wings without a marked pattern are key features to note in flight. The dark eye-patch and shaggy head are also distinctive characteristics that aid in identification.

The Marbled Duck favors temporary and shallow fresh, brackish, or alkaline waters with densely vegetated shores. These habitats are often found in otherwise dry regions and may include coastal lagoons, slow-moving rivers, and man-made reservoirs.

Once widespread across the Mediterranean region, the Marbled Duck's range has now contracted to select areas in southern Spain, southern Italy, northwest Africa, and the broader Levant. Its presence extends to the Mesopotamian marshland in southern Iraq, Iran, and isolated pockets in Armenia, Azerbaijan, South European Russia, western India, and western China.

This species exhibits nomadic tendencies, with some populations dispersing from breeding grounds to winter in the Sahel zone, south of the Sahara. The Marbled Duck is gregarious, often forming flocks, which can be small or, in some cases, quite large, particularly in wintering areas like Khuzestan, Iran.

Marbled Ducks breed in habitats with dense vegetation along the water's edge. They lay an average of 12 eggs in nests that are typically on the ground but may occasionally be found among reeds or on reed-made structures.

The diet of the Marbled Duck consists mainly of seeds from plants like Scirpus and Ruppia, invertebrates such as aquatic insect larvae and pupae, tiny crustaceans, and ants. They are equipped with a gizzard to break down seeds and lamellae in their beak for filter-feeding on zooplankton. Juveniles primarily consume invertebrates and small seeds, lacking the developed gizzard of adults.

The Marbled Duck is classified as Near Threatened by the IUCN. The species faces threats from habitat destruction and hunting, leading to a decline in its population. It is protected under the Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds (AEWA).

28-3-2025 BUNDALA NAT PARK, SRI LANKA - TIBETAN SAND PLOVER (JUVENILE) (Anarhynchus atrifrons)

The Lesser sand plover (Anarhynchus atrifrons) is a small wader in the plover family of birds, breeds in Pamir Mountains, Tian Shan, Tibetan Plateau and south Mongolia, winters in east and south Africa, south, east and southeast Asia.

It was previously considered conspecific with the Siberian (lesser) sand plover, and includes three subspecies: A. a. atrifrons, breeds in Tibet, A. a. pamirensis breeds in Pamir Mountains, and A. a. schaeferi, breeds in Qinghai.

A study published in 2022 proposed that the "mongolus" group of lesser sand plover is the sister group of greater sand plover, and "atrifrons" group is the sister group of them also. So a taxonomic split of lesser sand plover was needed. The authors suggested new scientific and common English name for them.

The International Ornithologists' Union accepted the split and renaming of the lesser sand plover in 2023, erecting the Tibetan sand plover as a full species.

28-3-2025 BUNDALA NAT PARK, SRI LANKA - TUFTED GREY LANGUR (Semnopithecus priam)

This monkey is often called the Hanuman langur, named after the Hindu monkey god in the Indian epic, The Ramayana.

Like their African relatives, the colobus monkeys, langurs are predominantly leaf eating monkeys. However, they also eat a wide variety of other foods that allow them to survive near human habitation in places such as the Polonnaruwa Reserve, where they are frequently associated with troops of toque macaques.

The Hanuman langurs are diurnal, and they spend about half of their time on the ground. This makes them very easy to observe.

28-3-2025 BUNDALA NAT PARK, SRI LANKA - ASIAN KOEL (FEMALE) (Eudynamys scolopaceu)

The Asian koel (Eudynamys scolopaceus) is a member of the cuckoo order, Cuculiformes, known for its glossy bluish-black plumage in males and spotted brown appearance in females. This large, long-tailed bird is notable for its brood parasitic behavior and frugivorous diet.

Males are glossy bluish-black with a pale greenish-grey bill, crimson iris, and grey legs and feet. Females have a brownish crown with rufous streaks and dark brown back with white and buff spots. The underparts are whitish with heavy striping. Juveniles resemble males but have a black beak.

The Asian koel inhabits light woodlands and areas of cultivation, adapting well to human-altered landscapes.

This species is mainly resident across tropical southern Asia, from Iran and Pakistan through India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, to southern China and the Greater Sundas. It has shown remarkable colonization abilities, including the volcanic island of Krakatau.

The Asian koel is a brood parasite, laying its eggs in the nests of crows and other hosts. It does not always evict host eggs or chicks and has a unique pattern of moult differing from other parasitic cuckoos.

The male's song is a repeated koo-Ooo, while the female emits a shrill kik-kik-kik. Calls can vary across populations.

The Asian koel lays its eggs in host nests, timing it closely with the host's laying period. The koel chicks hatch earlier than the host's and are sometimes fed by the adult female koel.

The Asian koel forms a superspecies with the closely related black-billed koels and Pacific koels, which differ in plumage, bill color, and voice.

Adults are largely frugivorous, defending fruiting trees and playing a role in seed dispersal. They also consume insects, caterpillars, and occasionally eggs and small vertebrates.

The IUCN Red List classifies the Asian koel as Least Concern, reflecting its wide distribution and stable population trends.