26-4-2019 PEGO MARJAL, ALICANTE - WESTERN YELLOW WAGTAIL (Motacilla flava)

The Western Yellow Wagtail, Motacilla flava, is a small, graceful passerine bird belonging to the wagtail family, Motacillidae. This species is noted for its slender build and the characteristic long, constantly wagging tail, a hallmark of its genus. Among its European relatives, it boasts the shortest tail. The adult male in breeding plumage is predominantly olive above with a vibrant yellow underbelly. Females and non-breeding males may exhibit a paler yellow, often intermixed with white.

To identify the Western Yellow Wagtail, look for a bird measuring about 15–16 cm in length. Breeding males display a variety of head colors and patterns, which can be quite distinctive, depending on the subspecies. In general, males have a more vivid plumage compared to the females, which are more subdued and often have a greenish wash.

21-1-2026 POTRIES, VALENCIA - WESTERN CATTLE EGRET (Bubulcus ibis ssp. ibis)

The western cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis) is a species of heron (family Ardeidae) found in the tropics, subtropics and warm temperate zones. Most taxonomic authorities lump this species and the eastern cattle egret together (called the cattle egret), but some (including the International Ornithologists' Union) separate them. Despite the similarities in plumage to the egrets of the genus Egretta, it is more closely related to the herons of Ardea. Originally native to parts of Asia, Africa and Europe, it has undergone a rapid expansion in its distribution and successfully colonised much of the rest of the world in the last century.

It is a white bird adorned with buff plumes in the breeding season. It nests in colonies, usually near bodies of water and often with other wading birds. The nest is a platform of sticks in trees or shrubs. Western cattle egrets exploit drier and open habitats more than other heron species. Their feeding habitats include seasonally inundated grasslands, pastures, farmlands, wetlands and rice paddies. They often accompany cattle or other large mammals, catching insect and small vertebrate prey disturbed by these animals. Some populations of the cattle egret are migratory and others show post-breeding dispersal.

The adult cattle egret has few predators, but birds or mammals may raid its nests, and chicks may be lost to starvation, calcium deficiency or disturbance from other large birds. This species maintains a special relationship with cattle, which extends to other large grazing mammals; wider human farming is believed to be a major cause of their suddenly expanded range. The cattle egret removes ticks and flies from cattle and consumes them. This benefits both species, but it has been implicated in the spread of tick-borne animal diseases.

The cattle egret has undergone one of the most rapid and wide reaching natural expansions of any bird species. It was originally native to parts of Southern Spain and Portugal, tropical and subtropical Africa and humid tropical and western Asia. In the end of the 19th century it began expanding its range into southern Africa, first breeding in the Cape Province in 1908. Cattle egrets were first sighted in the Americas on the boundary of Guiana and Suriname in 1877, having apparently flown across the Atlantic Ocean. It was not until the 1930s that the species is thought to have become established in that area.

21-1-2026 POTRIES, VALENCIA - GREY WAGTAIL (Motacilla cinerea)

The Grey Wagtail, Motacilla cinerea, is a slender bird of the wagtail family, Motacillidae, with an overall length of approximately 18–19 cm. It bears a resemblance to the Yellow Wagtail but is distinguished by the yellow on its underside being confined to the throat and vent. The male, during the breeding season, is characterized by a striking black throat.

This species can be identified by its narrow white supercilium and a broken eye ring. The upperparts are a soft grey, while the underparts are predominantly whitish, with a contrasting yellow vent. Breeding males are notable for their black throats bordered by whitish moustachial stripes.

The Grey Wagtail is invariably found in association with running water during the breeding season. It may nest in natural settings or utilize man-made structures close to streams. Outside of breeding times, it can also be observed around lakes, coasts, and other watery environments.

The Grey Wagtail has a wide distribution across Eurosiberia, with several populations breeding in this region and migrating to tropical areas in Asia and Africa. Subspecies are found in the Azores, Madeira, Canary Islands, and from western Europe to central, east, and northeast Asia.

These birds exhibit the characteristic wagtail behavior of tail-wagging and often fly low with undulating movements. They are known to forage either alone or in pairs, utilizing meadows, shallow water marshes, and rocks within water bodies. They may also perch in trees.

The Grey Wagtail has a sharp call, typically emitted in flight. Its song is composed of trills, and during display flights, the male produces a rapid series of high-pitched chipping notes.

Breeding occurs from April to July, with nests placed near fast-flowing streams or rivers, often between stones and roots. The clutch usually consists of 3–6 speckled eggs, and the species is capable of raising multiple broods in a season. The incubation period lasts about two weeks, with fledging occurring within a similar timeframe.

The Grey Wagtail may be confused with the Yellow Wagtail but can be differentiated by the restricted yellow coloring on its underside and the black throat of the breeding male.

The diet consists of various aquatic invertebrates, including flies, mayflies, beetles, crustaceans, and mollusks. They are often seen foraging along roadsides in winter.

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

20-1-2026 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - CARPET MOTH (Catarhoe basochesiata)

Catarhoe basochesiata is a moth of the family Geometridae. It is found in Europe. It was first described by Philogène Duponchel in 1831 as Cidaria basochesiata. 

Catarhoe basochesiata has a wingspan of 23–27 mm (0.91–1.06 in). The forewings vary in colour from reddish brown to greyish brown, with some moths having very dark brown forewings that poorly contrast with the patterns on them. The moth can be found across the western Mediterranean, from the Iberian Peninsula across France and into Italy and from Morocco to Tunisia. The moth prefers hot, dry conditions in low coastal regions, from 0–500 m (0–1,640 ft) above sea level and occasionally higher.

10-4-2019 ALBUFERA, VALENCIA - LITTLE RINGED PLOVER (Charadrius dubius)

The Little Ringed Plover, Charadrius dubius, presents itself as a small and sprightly bird. Its plumage is a subtle blend of grey-brown on the back and wings, while its underparts remain a crisp white. A distinctive black neckband adorns its white breast, complementing the brown cap atop its head. A striking black mask encircles the eyes, set against a white forehead, and is accentuated by a clear yellow eye-ring—a feature unique to this species. Its bill is short and dark, and the legs exhibit a flesh-coloured hue, with all toes connected by webbing.

To distinguish the Little Ringed Plover from its close relatives, one should note the colour of its legs, the pattern on its head, and the presence of the yellow eye-ring. These characteristics set it apart from the larger Ringed Plover, which lacks these specific traits. 

The preferred breeding grounds of the Little Ringed Plover are open gravel areas adjacent to freshwater sources. These include gravel pits, river edges, and islands, where vegetation is sparse or non-existent.

This bird boasts a wide range across the Palearctic, extending to northwestern Africa. It is a migratory species, retreating to the warmer climates of Africa during the winter months.

The Little Ringed Plover is known for its foraging habits on muddy terrains, where it primarily relies on sight to locate its prey. It is a ground-nesting bird, with both males and females sharing the responsibility of incubating the eggs.

The call of the Little Ringed Plover is a distinctive sound, contributing to the rich tapestry of bird songs in its habitat.

During the breeding season, these birds exhibit a fascinating mating ritual where the male bird may be observed tapping the cloaca of the female.

While similar in appearance to the larger Ringed Plover, the Little Ringed Plover can be differentiated by its leg colour, head pattern, and the conspicuous yellow eye-ring.

The diet of the Little Ringed Plover consists of insects and worms, which it diligently searches for in muddy areas.

The Little Ringed Plover is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN. It is also protected under the Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds (AEWA), ensuring international efforts are made to safeguard its future.

28-5-2019 SOMALISA, ZIMBABWE - DICKINSON'S KESTREL (Falco dickinsonii)

The Dickinson's kestrel, or Falco dickinsoni, is a bird of prey from the falcon family Falconidae, named in honor of John Dickinson, an English physician and missionary. This species, also known as the white-rumped kestrel, is a relatively small and robust kestrel with a distinctive large, square head. Adults measure between 27 to 30 centimeters in length, with a wingspan of 61 to 68 centimeters, and weigh from 167 to 246 grams. The females are marginally larger and heavier than the males. Their plumage is predominantly dark grey, with a paler head and rump. The tail features grey with narrow black bars and a broad subterminal band, while the underside of the flight feathers are barred. The cere and feet are a striking yellow, with bare yellow skin encircling the eye. The bill is dark grey, and the eyes are a deep brown. Juvenile birds present a grey-brown coloration with barred flanks, lacking the paler head and rump of adults, and have a greenish cere and eye-ring.

The Dickinson's kestrel, or Falco dickinsoni, is a bird of prey from the falcon family Falconidae, named in honor of John Dickinson, an English physician and missionary. This species, also known as the white-rumped kestrel, is a relatively small and robust kestrel with a distinctive large, square head. Adults measure between 27 to 30 centimeters in length, with a wingspan of 61 to 68 centimeters, and weigh from 167 to 246 grams. The females are marginally larger and heavier than the males. Their plumage is predominantly dark grey, with a paler head and rump. The tail features grey with narrow black bars and a broad subterminal band, while the underside of the flight feathers are barred. The cere and feet are a striking yellow, with bare yellow skin encircling the eye. The bill is dark grey, and the eyes are a deep brown. Juvenile birds present a grey-brown coloration with barred flanks, lacking the paler head and rump of adults, and have a greenish cere and eye-ring.

When identifying Dickinson's kestrel, look for the pale head and rump contrasting with the darker grey body. The yellow cere and feet, as well as the yellow skin around the eye, are key features. In flight, observe the barred underside of the wings and the broad subterminal band on the tail.

This kestrel favors savanna and open woodland habitats, particularly those that are swampy and near water. It has a strong association with miombo woodland and is often seen around palm trees, such as Hyphaene and Borassus species, as well as baobab trees. It can also be found in coconut plantations in certain regions.

The Dickinson's kestrel's range extends across much of Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Malawi, with its presence also noted in northeastern South Africa, northern Botswana, northeast Namibia, eastern Angola, southern Democratic Republic of the Congo, and parts of Tanzania. It is an occasional visitor to Kenya, with a total range of about 3.4 million square kilometers.

This kestrel typically hunts from a perch rather than by hovering. It preys on large insects like grasshoppers, as well as lizards, amphibians, and occasionally birds, bats, rodents, and snakes. It is known to be attracted to grass fires, seizing the opportunity to capture insects and other prey in flight.

6-1-2019 PEGO MARJAL, ALICANTE - REED BUNTING (Emberiza schoeniclus) (FEMALE)

The common reed bunting (Emberiza schoeniclus ) is a passerine bird in the bunting family Emberizidae, a group now separated by most modern authors from the finches, Fringillidae. The genus name Emberiza is from Old German Embritz, a bunting. The specific schoeniclus is from Ancient Greek skhoiniklos, a now unknown waterside bird.

It breeds across Europe and much of the Palearctic. Most birds migrate south in winter, but those in the milder south and west of the range are resident. It is common in reedbeds and also breeds in drier open areas such as moorland and cultivation. For example, it is a component of the purple moor grass and rush pastures, a type of Biodiversity Action Plan habitat in the UK. It occurs on poorly drained neutral and acidic soils of the lowlands and upland fringe.

17-1-2026 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - CARPET MOTH (Catarhoe basochesiata)

Catarhoe basochesiata is a moth of the family Geometridae. It is found in Europe. It was first described by Philogène Duponchel in 1831 as Cidaria basochesiata. 

Catarhoe basochesiata has a wingspan of 23–27 mm (0.91–1.06 in). The forewings vary in colour from reddish brown to greyish brown, with some moths having very dark brown forewings that poorly contrast with the patterns on them. The moth can be found across the western Mediterranean, from the Iberian Peninsula across France and into Italy and from Morocco to Tunisia. The moth prefers hot, dry conditions in low coastal regions, from 0–500 m (0–1,640 ft) above sea level and occasionally higher.

17-1-2026 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - WAVE MOTH (Idaea minuscularia)

Idaea minuscularia is a small, whitish-grey geometrid moth found in Southwest Europe and Northwest Africa, often in coastal maquis, cultivated areas, and villages, feeding on ground-level herbs like Oxalis, and recognized by its pale color with fine dark markings and a simple wing edge, differentiating it from similar Idaea species. 

Appearance: Small (1.2-1.8 cm wingspan), white/grey wings with scattered dark scales, often with indistinct lines and a dotted border on the wing edge.

Habitat: Common near coasts in maquis shrubland, cultivated fields, and walls in SW Europe & NW Africa.

Larval Diet: Feeds on herbs near the ground, including Oxalis in the Azores.

Behavior: Nocturnal, attracted to lights.

Identification: Distinguished from I. incisaria and I. calunetaria by its less contrasted colors and regular (not wavy) hindwing edge.

Taxonomy: A species of the large Idaea genus, part of the Sterrhinae subfamily. 

In Summary: It's a widespread, generally common, small, pale moth often found in human-modified coastal environments, feeding on low-growing plants, and identifiable by its subtle markings and straight wing edges. 

8-1-2026 EL PALMAR, ALBUFERA - COMMON CHIFFCHAFF (Phylloscopus collybita)

The Common Chiffchaff, Phylloscopus collybita, is a diminutive and sprightly leaf warbler known for its distinctive, onomatopoeic song. This small, migratory passerine is characterized by its greenish-brown upperparts and off-white underparts, with a weight ranging from 6 to 8 grams and a length of 10-12 centimeters.

In the field, look for the Common Chiffchaff's short whitish supercilium, fine dark bill, and dark legs. Its primary projection is short, and the plumage may appear duller and browner as it wears. Juveniles are browner above with yellow-white underparts, but they soon acquire brighter plumage after their first moult.

The Common Chiffchaff breeds in open woodlands with a mix of taller trees and ground cover across northern and temperate Europe, Asia, and parts of north Africa. It prefers woodland with trees at least 5 meters high and an undergrowth of grasses and nettles.

This species has a vast breeding range, extending from Europe to eastern Siberia and northward to about 70 N. It winters in southern and western Europe, southern Asia, and north Africa. The Common Chiffchaff is one of the earliest spring migrants to return to its breeding grounds and one of the last to depart in autumn.

The male Common Chiffchaff is fiercely territorial during the breeding season, defending its core territory against rivals. It exhibits a fearless nature, even attacking predators that threaten its nest. Outside the breeding season, these birds may form small flocks with other warblers.

The song is a cheerful "chiff-chaff," which heralds the arrival of spring. Calls include a "hweet" sound, less disyllabic than the calls of closely related warblers. The song is a key distinguishing feature from similar species, such as the Iberian Chiffchaff.

The female constructs a domed nest on or near the ground, lined with feathers. Clutches typically consist of 2-7 cream-colored eggs, which hatch after 13-14 days. The female assumes most of the responsibility for brooding and feeding the chicks, with the male playing a minimal role. 

14-1-2026 SOLLANA NORTH, ALBUFERA - WHITE WAGTAIL (Motacilla alba)

The White Wagtail (Motacilla alba) is a small, elegant passerine bird, a member of the family Motacillidae, which includes pipits and longclaws. This slender bird measures between 16.5 to 19 cm in length, with East Asian subspecies reaching up to 21 cm. It is characterized by its long, constantly wagging tail, a behavior that has become synonymous with the genus. Weighing an average of 25 g, the White Wagtail can live up to 12 years in the wild.

Adult White Wagtails exhibit a distinctive plumage with a combination of grey, black, and white. The bird's upper parts are generally grey, with a white face, belly, and breast. Males during the breeding season may show a darker back, and the species is known for its sharp, brisk call and more melodious song during courtship.

The White Wagtail is commonly found in open country, often in close proximity to human habitation and water sources. It shows a preference for bare areas which facilitate the sighting and pursuit of prey. This bird has adapted well to urban environments, utilizing paved areas such as parking lots for foraging.

14-1-2026 SOLLANA NORTH, ALBUFERA - WESTERN CATTLE EGRET (Bubulcus ibis ssp. ibis)

The Western Cattle-Egret is a gregarious, white, upland ardeid (Ardeidae), easily recognized by its foraging association with grazing animals and its exaggerated, head-pumping strut. It differs from the Eastern Cattle-Egret (Ardea coromanda) in having less buff-orange breeding plumage in the head and neck regions.

Small, compact white heron with relatively short yellow bill. More frequently seen in dry habitats than other egrets. In breeding season, look for pale salmon color on head and breast and brighter bill. Leg color varies from reddish or yellow during the breeding season to black during the nonbreeding season. Juveniles have dark bill. Always note relatively short, thick neck and short legs compared with other egrets. Often gathers in flocks, frequently following cattle or tractors in fields.

The Western Cattle-Egret is a gregarious, white, upland heron ( Ardeidae ), easily recognized by its foraging association with grazing animals and its exaggerated head-waving. It is distinguished from the Eastern Cattle-Egret (Ardea coromanda) due to having less buffy-orange breeding plumage on the head and neck regions. Its preference for grasslands, lawns, pastures, and grazing animals is quite distinct from that of other herons and egrets, which usually feed in or beside water and not in close association with livestock. In Britain and Europe, it is also known as the buffalo heron, referring to the color of its breeding plumes; but in many languages, it is simply called the cow crane, cow heron, or cowbird, or named after the wild grazing animal with which it is usually associated, e.g., elephant bird, rhinoceros egret, or hippopotamus egret. 

14-1-2026 SOLLANA NORTH, ALBUFERA - LITTLE EGRET (Egretta garzetta)

The little egret (Egretta garzetta) is a species of small heron in the family Ardeidae. It is a white bird with a slender black beak, long black legs and, in the western race, yellow feet. As an aquatic bird, it feeds in shallow water and on land, consuming a variety of small creatures. It breeds colonially, often with other species of water birds, making a platform nest of sticks in a tree, bush or reed bed. A clutch of three to five bluish-green eggs is laid and incubated by both parents for about three weeks. The young fledge at about six weeks of age.

Its breeding distribution is in wetlands in warm temperate to tropical parts of Asia, Africa, Australia, and Europe. A successful colonist, its range has gradually expanded north, with stable and self-sustaining populations now present in the United Kingdom.

In warmer locations, most birds are permanent residents; northern populations, including many European birds, migrate to Africa and southern Asia to over-winter there. The birds may also wander north in late summer after the breeding season, and their tendency to disperse may have assisted in the recent expansion of the bird's range. At one time common in Western Europe, it was hunted extensively in the 19th century to provide plumes for the decoration of hats and became locally extinct in northwestern Europe and scarce in the south. Around 1950, conservation laws were introduced in southern Europe to protect the species and their numbers began to increase. By the beginning of the 21st century the bird was breeding again in France, the Netherlands, Ireland and Britain. Its range is continuing to expand westward, and the species has begun to colonise the New World; it was first seen in Barbados in 1954 and first bred there in 1994. 

14-1-2026 EL PALMAR, ALBUFERA - EUROPEAN STONECHAT (MALE) (Saxicola rubicola)

The European stonechat, Saxicola rubicola, is a small, charming passerine bird, once thought to be a member of the thrush family but now placed within the Old World flycatcher family, Muscicapidae. This species exhibits a striking sexual dimorphism, with males donning a black plumage with vibrant orange throats and females wearing a more subdued brown.

Males in their summer plumage are unmistakable with their black heads, orange throats, and white bellies. They also sport a distinctive white half-collar and small white patches on the wings and rump. Females, on the other hand, are predominantly brown with less pronounced white wing patches. Both sexes have notably short wings, which are shorter than those of their migratory relatives.

The European stonechat favors heathlands, coastal dunes, and open grasslands dotted with shrubs, brambles, and heather. These habitats provide the perfect backdrop for their active foraging and breeding behaviors.

This species is widely distributed across Europe, reaching as far east as Ukraine and the South Caucasus, and can also be found in parts of North Africa.

Stonechats are known for their lively presence, often perching conspicuously as they keep a vigilant eye on their surroundings. They exhibit a partial migratory pattern, with some populations moving southward to escape the colder winters.

The male stonechat's song is a delightful, high-pitched twitter, reminiscent of a dunnock's melody. Both sexes communicate with a distinctive call that evokes the sound of two stones being tapped together.

European stonechats are monogamous during the breeding season and commence their reproductive efforts at one year of age. They raise two to three broods per season, with the female constructing the nest and both parents tending to the young.

The European stonechat can be confused with the Siberian stonechat and the African stonechat, but genetic evidence supports their distinction as separate species.

These birds are adept insectivores, gleaning a variety of invertebrates from their environment to sustain themselves and their offspring.

14-1-2026 MUNTANYETA DEL SANS, ALBUFERA - GLOSSY IBIS (Plegadis falcinellus)

The Glossy Ibis, Plegadis falcinellus, is a wading bird of the family Threskiornithidae, known for its striking, sickle-shaped bill. This mid-sized ibis measures 48–66 cm in length, with a wingspan of 80–105 cm. Breeding adults boast reddish-brown bodies and iridescent bottle-green wings, while non-breeders and juveniles display a more subdued coloration. The species is characterized by a brownish bill, dark facial skin with blue-gray to cobalt blue borders, and red-brown legs. In flight, the ibis extends its neck and exhibits a graceful V formation.

When identifying the Glossy Ibis, look for its unique glossy feathers and the distinct shape of its bill. The bird's flight pattern is also a telltale sign, as it flies with its neck outstretched, unlike herons. Listen for its various croaks and grunts, particularly the hoarse grrrr sound during the breeding season.

The Glossy Ibis favors freshwater or brackish wetlands with tall, dense emergent vegetation such as reeds, papyrus, or rushes, and low trees or bushes. It can also be found in lagoons, floodplains, wet meadows, swamps, reservoirs, sewage ponds, rice paddies, and irrigated farmland. Coastal habitats like estuaries and salt marshes are less common for this species.

This ibis is the most widespread of its kind, breeding in warm regions across Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and the Americas. It is migratory, with European birds wintering in Africa and North American birds migrating southward. The species has been expanding its range, with increasing numbers in Europe and successful breeding in Britain as of 2022.

14-1-2026 SOLLANA SOUTH, ALBUFERA - COMMON SANDPIPER

The Common Sandpiper, Actitis hypoleucos, is a small wader of the Palearctic region, easily recognized by its greyish-brown upperparts and pristine white underparts. Adults typically measure between 18-20 cm in length, with a wingspan of 32-35 cm. They possess short, dark-yellowish legs and feet, and a bill that is pale at the base with a dark tip.

In the field, look for the Common Sandpiper's distinctive stiff-winged flight pattern, just above the water's surface. During the non-breeding season, they appear duller and exhibit more noticeable barring on the wings, which is most visible at close range. Juveniles display heavier barring above and buff edges to their wing feathers. The species can be differentiated from the similar Spotted Sandpiper by its darker legs and feet and the crisper wing pattern, especially in flight.

These birds are often found near freshwater sources, where they nest on the ground in close proximity to the water's edge.

14-1-2026 ALGEMESI, VALENCIA - EURASIAN KESTREL (Falco tinnunculus)

The common kestrel, Falco tinnunculus, is a bird of prey from the kestrel group within the falcon family Falconidae. It is also known as the European kestrel, Eurasian kestrel, or Old World kestrel. In the United Kingdom, it is often simply referred to as the "kestrel." This raptor is small compared to other birds of prey but larger than most songbirds, with long wings and a distinctive long tail.

Males and females exhibit sexual dimorphism in their plumage. The male has a blue-grey cap and tail with a black tip bordered by a narrow white rim. Its back is chestnut with black spots, and the underside is buff with black streaks. The female is larger and lacks the blue-grey coloring, having a brown back with black bars and a similar underside to the male. Both sexes have a prominent black malar stripe, bright yellow cere, feet, and eye-ring, with dark toenails, bill, and iris.

The common kestrel favors open habitats such as fields, heaths, shrubland, and marshland. It does not require woodland but needs alternative perching and nesting sites like rocks or buildings. It thrives in treeless steppes and can adapt to human settlements and various landscapes, from wetlands to arid savannas.

31-7-2019 SEGOVIA, ESPANA - BOOTED EAGLE (Hieraaetus pennatus)

The booted eagle, Hieraaetus pennatus, is a medium-sized bird of prey, with a stature comparable to the common buzzard. It exhibits sexual dimorphism, with females being larger, weighing approximately 840–1,025 grams, while males are lighter at 510–770 grams. The species measures around 40 cm in length and boasts a wingspan ranging from 110 to 132 cm. It is characterized by two distinct plumage morphs: a pale variant with light grey feathers and a darker head and flight feathers, and a darker morph with mid-brown plumage and dark grey flight feathers.

When identifying the booted eagle, look for the white markings on the wings, often referred to as "landing lights," which are visible when the bird is in flight. The pale morph is dominant, but the darker morph can be more prevalent in certain eastern populations. The call of the booted eagle is a distinctive shrill "kli-kli-kli."

30-7-2019 BOTANICO ATLANTICO GIJON, ASTURIAS - EUROPEAN ROBIN (Erithacus rubecula)

The European robin (Erithacus rubecula), known simply as the robin or robin redbreast in Great Britain and Ireland, is a small insectivorous passerine bird, a member of the chat subfamily of the Old World flycatcher family. It is a plucky little bird, with a length of about 12.5–14.0 cm and a weight of 16–22 g. Both sexes are similarly adorned with an orange breast and face, lined with grey, brown upper-parts, and a whitish belly.

Adult robins can be identified by their orange breast and face, bordered by a bluish-grey on the sides of the neck and chest. The upperparts are brownish, or olive-tinged in British birds, and the belly is whitish. The bill and eyes are black. Juvenile robins are distinguishable by their spotted brown and white plumage, with patches of orange gradually appearing as they mature.

The European robin is a bird of diverse habitats, found in woodlands, gardens, and parks across its range. It is particularly associated with areas where the soil is dug or disturbed, allowing it easy access This bird has a wide distribution across Europe, extending east to Western Siberia and south to North Africa. It is sedentary in most of its range except the far north, where it is migratory.

11-1-2026 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - COMMON CREVICE CRICKET (Gryllomorpha dalmatina)

Gryllomorpha dalmatina, common name wingless house-cricket, is a species of cricket belonging to the family Gryllidae subfamily Gryllomorphinae.

This cricket is mainly present in France, Italy, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland, in the Near East and in North Africa.

Gryllomorpha dalmatina is the largest species of the genus Gryllomorpha. The adults grow up to 15–20 millimetres (0.59–0.79 in). They are wingless. The basic coloration of the body is pale brown, with dark-brown markings on the body and the legs. The antennae are very long. Also legs are rather long. The female ovipositor is long and thin and can reach a length of about 12–17 millimetres (0.47–0.67 in).

They can commonly be encountered in nature from April through early Autumn, but in the domestic environment they are active all year round. They can be found in buildings, especially in dark moist places, as caves, cellars, basements, but also under stones and bark.  As a matter of fact, these crickets fear the light and feed on organic debris.

11-1-2026 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - MOTH ORCHID (Genus Phalaenopsis)

Phalaenopsis (/ˌfælɪˈnɒpsɪs/), also known as moth orchids, is a genus of about seventy species of plants in the family Orchidaceae. Orchids in this genus are monopodial epiphytes or lithophytes with long, coarse roots, short, leafy stems and long-lasting, flat flowers arranged in a flowering stem that often branches near the end. Orchids in this genus are native to Asia, New Guinea, and Australia, but mostly occur in Indonesia and the Philippines.

Orchids in the genus Phalaenopsis are monopodial epiphytic, sometimes lithophytic herbs with long, coarse roots with pneumatodes (which allow for gaseous exchange of the photosynthetic roots), and short leafy stems hidden by overlapping leaf bases. The leaves are usually arranged in two rows, relatively large and leathery, oblong to elliptic and sometimes succulent. A few to many, small to large, long-lasting, flat, often fragrant flowers are arranged on erect to hanging racemes or panicles. The sepals and petals are free from and spread widely apart from each other. The lateral sepals are usually larger than the dorsal sepal and the petals much wider than the sepals. The labellum is joined stiffly to the column and has three lobes. The side lobes are erect and more or less parallel to each other and the middle lobe sometimes has a pair of appendages or antennae.

12-1-2026 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - VESPERID BEETLE (Vesperus xatarti)

Vesperus xatarti, known as the vine moth beetle or castañeta, is a brown longhorn beetle from Spain, France, and the Balearic Islands, famous for its larvae damaging tree and vine roots, with distinct male (long antennae) and female (large abdomen, shorter antennae) adults, and a 2-3 year life cycle involving subterranean feeding before adults emerge to reproduce. 

Identification: Brownish beetle, males have antennae as long as their body, females are larger with shorter antennae and a swollen abdomen.

Habitat: Found in Spain, France (Pyrenees-Orientales), and the Balearic Islands.

Diet (Larvae): Polyphagous, feeding on the roots of deciduous trees and shrubs like grapevine (Vitis vinifera), olive (Olea), and Celtis.

Life Cycle: A long cycle (2-3+ years), with larvae developing underground for 2-3 years, pupating in spring/summer, and adults emerging in autumn/winter (Oct-Mar) for brief reproduction.

Damage: Larvae damage roots, causing poor vigor, discoloration, and reduced production, often in patches.

Adults: Short-lived (weeks), focus on reproduction; males fly, females don't.

Pheromones: Females release specific sex pheromones (vesperal and vesperol) to attract males, studied for pest control. 

11-1-2026 ESTANY CULLERA, VALENCIA - EURASIAN COOT (Fulica atra)

The Eurasian coot, Fulica atra, also known as the common coot or Australian coot, is a distinctive waterbird with a slaty-black body, a glossy black head, and a striking white bill topped with a white frontal shield. This bird is a member of the Rallidae family, which includes rails and crakes. Both sexes exhibit similar plumage, making them indistinguishable in the field.

Adult Eurasian coots measure 36–38 cm in length with a wingspan of 70–80 cm. Males are slightly heavier than females, weighing around 890 g compared to the females' 750 g. The species is characterized by its white bill and frontal shield, which contrast sharply with its all-black body. Juveniles are paler with a whitish breast and lack the facial shield, which develops fully by one year of age.

The Eurasian coot is found on freshwater lakes and ponds and has adapted well to urban environments, often seen in city parks and gardens with water bodies.

This bird has a broad range across the Old World, including Europe, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and parts of North Africa. It is a resident in milder regions but migrates south and west from much of Asia during winter.

The Eurasian coot is less secretive than many rails, often visible on open water or grasslands. It is territorial and aggressive during the breeding season, with both parents defending their territory. In non-breeding seasons, coots may form large flocks. They are reluctant flyers, preferring to run across water surfaces, and are known for bobbing their heads while swimming.

11-1-2026 ESTANY CULLERA, VALENCIA - BLACK HEADED GULL (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)

The Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus) is a common, adaptable Eurasian gull known for its dark brown summer hood (not truly black) that disappears in winter, leaving white heads with dark ear spots. 

These sociable birds live near freshwater and coastal wetlands, feed on insects, worms, fish, and human scraps, nest on the ground in colonies, and get their Latin name, "ridibundus" (laughing), from their distinctive calls. 

11-1-2026 PALMA DE GANDIA, VALENCIA - COMMON CYLINDRIC GRASSHOPPER (Tropidopola cylindrica)

The Common Cylindric Grasshopper (Tropidopola cylindrica) is known for its elongated, cylindrical body, found in damp habitats like reeds in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, often near water in semi-desert areas. They're usually light brown, rest motionless on plants, and flee by flying rather than jumping, with adults hibernating through cooler months. 

Key Characteristics & Habitat

Appearance: Slender, elongated, cylindrical body, typically light brown.

Habitat: Damp meadows, reed beds, and vegetation around water in desert/semi-desert regions.

Location: Africa, Asia (Middle East, Asia Minor, Cyprus).

Size: Adults can reach about 20mm, with slight variations between sexes.

Behavior

Camouflage: Stays motionless, stretched out on grass or reeds, blending in.

Movement: Avoids danger by moving to the other side of the plant or with a flying jump, not typical large leaps.

Life Cycle: Adults hibernate from late summer/autumn through spring/early summer; larvae develop in summer. 

Classification

Order: Orthoptera (Grasshoppers, Crickets, Locusts).

Family: Acrididae (Short-horned Grasshoppers).

Genus: Tropidopola.