2-7-2025 POTRIES, VALENCIA - WHITE FEATHERLEG DAMSELFLY (Platycnemis latipes)

As well as the diagnostic broad, 'feathery' white legs, it generally has a paler blue body to help distinguish it from the other blue damselflies. The pale chestnut wing spots are also characteristic. Immature males and females are mostly creamy white (form lactea). Females take on a very pale green colour on maturity.

This damselfly favours slow moving rivers and canals with luxuriant vegetation.

It can be seen from mid May to mid August.

The males engage in a courtship display to woo the female, raising its front white legs in front of the female as part of the act.

In Britain it is found in mainly lowland areas, up to the Midlands. It is uncommon but can become locally frequent.

The White-legged Damselfly is a species that reaches the current northern limits of its UK distribution in VC 55. It favours unshaded sections of streams, rivers and canals with a moderate to slow flow but is present at only a handful of localities in the counties; this suggests that other, as yet unknown, factors may influence its distribution. The White-legged Damselfly is found along the full length on the Ashby Canal and on the Grand Union Canal south of Leicester City. It also occurs along the Rivers Wreake and Eye and the Gaddesby and Queniborough Brooks in north-east Leicestershire. Its distribution follows the Rivers Avon and Welland along the southern boundary of both Leicestershire and Rutland and also their tributaries in the form of the Eye Brook and River Chater. Of note is an apparently dramatic range extension north along the Ashby Canal in 2006. Prior to this date there had only been three records on this watercourse, while in 2006 it was found in virtually every 1 km Ordnance Survey grid square along the canal. Historic records show that the White-legged Damselfly has always been uncommon in VC 55, with Corbet et al (1960) classing it as 'extinct or status very uncertain'.

30-6-2025 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - DOUBLE STRIPED PUG MOTH (Gymnoscelis rufifasciata)

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

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

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

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

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

1-7-2025 BONAIRE, VALENCIA - EUROPEAN BEE-EATER (Merops apiaster)

The European bee-eater, Merops apiaster, is a bird of arresting beauty and grace. Its plumage is a kaleidoscope of warm hues, with brown and yellow adorning its upper parts, while the wings boast a vibrant green. The beak, a stark black, contrasts sharply with the bird's colorful attire. This slender avian can reach a length of 27–29 cm, including the elongated central tail feathers that add to its elegance. Both sexes are similar in appearance, though the female may sport greener shoulder feathers compared to the male's gold.

When identifying the European bee-eater, look for its distinctive coloration and sleek profile. The non-breeding plumage is more subdued, with a blue-green back and the absence of elongated central tail feathers. Juveniles resemble non-breeding adults but exhibit less variation in feather colors. During the moulting period, adults transition to breeding plumage, which is completed before their winter migration to Africa.

These birds favor open country in warmer climates, often found in proximity to sandy banks and river shores where they can nest and forage with ease.

The European bee-eater breeds across southern and central Europe, parts of northern and southern Africa, and western Asia. While the southern African population remains resident year-round, others migrate to tropical Africa for the winter. Occasionally, they are seen north of their typical range, with sporadic breeding in northern Europe.

Gregarious by nature, European bee-eaters nest colonially in sandy banks, with communal tendencies extending to feeding and roosting. Courtship involves the male presenting the female with large prey items, a gesture of both affection and sustenance.

The call of the European bee-eater is a melodious and liquid "prreee" or "prruup," a sound as mellow as the bird's demeanor.

Breeding season sees these birds tunneling into sandy banks to lay their spherical white eggs, with both parents sharing the duties of incubation and care. The eggs hatch after about three weeks, and the young are raised with communal diligence.

While the European bee-eater is distinctive, it may be confused with other bee-eater species. However, its unique coloration and tail feathers generally set it apart.

True to their name, European bee-eaters feast primarily on bees, wasps, and hornets. They exhibit remarkable skill in catching these insects mid-flight and have a unique method of removing the sting before consumption. Their diet is predominantly composed of Hymenoptera, particularly the European honey bee.

The IUCN lists the European bee-eater as Least Concern, indicating a stable population without immediate threats to its survival. However, their interactions with bee populations and apiaries are of interest to conservationists and apiculturists alike.

25-6-2025 RACO DE OLLA, ALBUFERA - BLACK WINGED STILT (JUVENILE) (Himantopus himantopus)

Striking large black-and-white wader with a thin, straight bill and bright pink legs, found in wetlands with open shallow water throughout much of Africa and Eurasia, often in brackish habitats. Some populations are migratory, departing northerly breeding grounds for warmer southern regions. Often forms noisy colonies on bare ground near water. Essentially unmistakable throughout much of its range, but compare with Pied Stilt in parts of Southeast Asia. Feeds by wading in water, picking from the water surface with its needle-like bill. In flight, long pink legs stick out far beyond the tail. Calls loudly and stridently, especially when alarmed during the breeding season.

The black-winged stilt (Himantopus himantopus) is a widely distributed, very long-legged wader in the avocet and stilt family Recurvirostridae. Its scientific name, Himantopus himantopus, is sometimes used to generalize a single, almost cosmopolitan species. Alternatively, it is restricted to the form that is widespread in Europe, Asia and Africa, which equals the nominate group of H. himantopus sensu lato. Meanwhile, the black-necked (H. mexicanus) and white-backed stilts (H. melanurus) both inhabit the Americas; the pied stilt (H. leucocephalus) ranges from Australasia and New Zealand. Today, most sources accept between one and four actual species. The taxonomic name Himantopus comes from Greek, meaning "strap-foot" or "thong-foot".

22-4-2018 OKAVANGO DELTA, BOTSWANA - QUEEN PURPLE TIP BUTTERFLY (Colotis regina)

Colotis regina, the queen purple tip, regal purple tip, or large violet tip, is a butterfly of the family Pieridae. It is found in the Afrotropical realm.

The wingspan is 45–62 mm. The adults fly year-round.

These butterflies are noted much rarely than other Colotis species, but recorded regularly in February and March.

The larvae feed on Boscia and Capparis species.

28-6-2025 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - SHIELDBACK KATYDID (Thyreonotus corsicus)

Thyreonotus corsicus is a species belonging to the family Tettigoniidae subfamily Tettigoniinae. It is found in the western Mediterranean from the Iberian Peninsula over the south of France to the southwestern Alps. Isolated populations are found in Corsica and Sardinia.

Shieldbacks have a substantial pronotum that looks like a shield. 

They look like tiny armored tanks – rounded, plump, sturdy - but they are not as invulnerable as they appear and can be seriously injured if dropped. It might be a good idea to leave them where you find them (should you be fortunate enough to locate one) and simply watch what they do - including catching and eating other insects. I observed a Protean Shieldback about to grab and eat a male Japanese beetle that was in the process of mating!

They live in woodland edges and shrubby meadows, and their shades of brown blend very well with bark, shrub stems, and dry leaves. These katydids are generally nocturnal and are predators on smaller insects. Although I seldom see or hear them, they seem to mature in the beginning of July.

Their song is an electrical buzzing reminiscent of a humming wire. Although non-native, they mature earlier than our native meadow katydids and don’t seem to be a problem. Listen for them in grassy meadows from later June into July.

25-6-2025 RACO DE OLLA, ALBUFERA - CLEOPATRA BUTTERFLY (Gonepteryx cleopatra)

Gonepteryx cleopatra, the Cleopatra or Cleopatra butterfly, is a medium-sized butterfly of the family Pieridae.

Gonepteryx cleopatra is a medium-sized butterfly with a wingspan of about 50–70 mm (2.0–2.8 in). It is a sexually dimorphic species; the female has pale yellow or greenish wings, whereas the male is darker yellow with an orange patch on the forewing. Both sexes have a forewing apical hook and brown dots in the center of each wing, and the underside of wings is light greenish yellow. The greenish color, the shape and the pronounced venation on the hindwings give to these butterflies a good camouflage, making them resemble just leaves.

The Cleopatra butterfly inhabits open woodland and scrub. The flight period is from May to August in most parts of its range, except Spain, where it is double brooded and may fly almost all year. The adult hibernates in evergreen trees and shrubs. The caterpillars feed on the buckthorns Rhamnus alaternus. When the green caterpillars are prepared to pass to the pupal stage, they tie themselves through a silk belt to the host plant, on the underside of a leaf. The green chrysalis became gradually yellow and red, revealing the colors on the wings of the adult close to flutter. In dry regions, the Cleopatra practices a vertical migration between the maquis and the mountain fir forests. It emerges in spring at low altitudes, then migrates to higher altitudes in the mountains and stays there in the summer months to descend in autumn at low altitudes.

This species is native to the Mediterranean region (Southern Europe, North Africa and West Asia).

25-6-2025 RACO DE OLLA, ALBUFERA - COMMON SHELDUCK (MALE) (Tadorna tadorna)

The common shelduck, Tadorna tadorna, is a waterfowl species that graces the Euro-Siberian region with its presence. It is a medium-sized bird, akin to a small, short-necked goose, and is quite the sight with its white plumage contrasted by chestnut patches and a black underbelly. The head and neck are a dark, iridescent green, and the bill is a reddish-pink, with the male sporting a conspicuous knob on the forehead during the breeding season. Pink feet complete the ensemble, making this bird a striking figure in its habitat.

To identify the common shelduck, look for the distinctive reddish-pink bill and pink feet. The male, especially in breeding plumage, has a bright red bill with a prominent knob. The female is slightly smaller and has white facial markings. Both sexes have a white body with chestnut patches, a black belly, and a dark green head and neck. In flight, the green and chestnut secondary feathers become visible, contrasting with the predominantly white underwings.

The common shelduck is found in a variety of wetland habitats, including temperate lakes and rivers, as well as estuaries and tidal mudflats in winter. It has a particular fondness for salt marshes and estuaries and is known to breed in rabbit burrows, tree holes, and even haystacks.

This species is widespread across temperate Eurasia. It breeds in temperate regions and migrates to subtropical areas for wintering. Some populations remain resident in the westernmost parts of Europe, while others undertake movements to moulting grounds like the Wadden Sea.

25-6-2025 RACO DE OLLA, ALBUFERA - BLACK WINGED STILT (Himantopus himantopus)

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.

26-6-2025 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - LOBE WINGED COCKROACH (Loboptera decipiens)

Loboptera is a genus of mostly Palaearctic cockroaches erected by Carl Brunner von Wattenwyl in 1865; it appears to be currently placed in the subfamily Blattellinae. The recorded distribution (probably incomplete) for species includes: mainland Europe (not the British Isles or Scandinavia), North Africa, Cameroun, the Middle East through to central Asia.

This is a common species in southern Europe, where it occasionally enters (but does not infest) houses. Outdoors it is often found in anthropogenic habitats, though its natural niche seems to be in semi-dry grasslands. Captive conditions should be a dry enclosure, ideally with frequent light mistings, and a corner kept moist. High ventilation or dry air is critical and this species will not tolerate stagnant conditions for long. Nymphs start off orange and mature in as little as 3 months with ideal care. The wingless adults are rather dapper with their dark bodies and white contours. Colonies tend to grow gradually and this is not an overly prolific or explosive species. There is nothing particularly deceptive about this species, and its partly diurnal and unassertive nature makes it an excellent candidate for multiple-species enclosures. Surprisingly for a tiny roach, Loboptera decipiens is quite bumbling and can be handled easily.

28-6-2025 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - PYRALID SNOUT MOTH (Bostra obsoletalis)

Bostra obsoletalis is a species of moth in the family Pyralidae described by Josef Johann Mann in 1864. It is found in southern Europe, Yemen, Sudan, the Palestinian territories, Tunisia and Morocco.

The wingspan is 14–15 mm. Adults are on wing from June to August.

25-6-2025 RACO DE OLLA, ALBUFERA - BLACK WINGED STILT (Himantopus himantopus)

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.

25-6-2025 ULLAL DE BALDOVI, ALBUFERA - LARGE PSAMMODROMUS LIZARD (Psammodromus algirus)

Psammodromus algirus, known commonly as the Algerian psammodromus or the large psammodromus, is a species of lizard in the family Lacertidae. The species is found in southwestern Europe and northwestern Africa.

Psammodromus algirus is found in North Africa (Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia) and in Southwestern Europe (Iberian Peninsula: Portugal, Spain, Andorra, Gibraltar; southernmost France, and Italy near Lampedusa).

The IUCN assessment from 2009 treats Psammodromus algirus nollii and Psammodromus algirus ketamensis as full species and restricts Psammodromus algirus to North Africa.

P. algirus typically occurs in dense bushy vegetation, but it can also venture to more open areas. It can be found at elevations up to 2,600 m (8,500 ft) above sea level, but it is more common at lower elevations.

Psammodromus algirus mainly feeds on terrestrial arthropods, specifically Orthoptera, Formicidae, Coleoptera, Hemiptera, and Araneae.

P. algirus is threatened by habitat loss.

P. algirus commonly reaches a snout–vent length of about 7.5 cm (3.0 in), occasionally 9 cm (3.5 in). The tail is 2–3 times the body length. Dorsal colouration is usually metallic brownish with a pair of conspicuous white or yellowish stripes on both sides.

25-6-2025 MUNTANYETA DEL SANS, ALBUFERA - AUDOUIN'S GULL (Ichthyaetus audouinii)

The Audouin's gull, Ichthyaetus audouinii, presents itself as a large gull species, predominantly inhabiting the Mediterranean, the western coast of Saharan Africa, and the Iberian Peninsula. Its name pays homage to the French naturalist Jean Victoire Audouin. Resembling a small European herring gull, the adult Audouin's gull is distinguished by its short, stubby red bill and the unique "string of pearls" white wing primary tips. The legs of this bird are a subtle grey-green, and it takes a full four years for the gull to don its adult plumage.

When observing the Audouin's gull, one should note the red bill and the distinctive pattern of white spots along the wingtips, which contrast with the larger "mirrors" seen in other gull species. These features are key to distinguishing it from its relatives.

This gull favors coastal and pelagic environments, strictly adhering to regions where it can pursue its specialized diet.

The Audouin's gull is found in the Mediterranean, along the western Saharan African coast, and on the Iberian Peninsula. It breeds on small islands, either colonially or in solitude.

26-6-2025 GREAT SPIRIT BLUFFS, USA - NORTH AMERICAN PEREGRINE FALCON (Falco peregrinus ssp. anatum)

The Peregrine Falcon, known scientifically as Falco peregrinus, is a large falcon roughly the size of a crow. It boasts a blue-grey back, barred white underparts, and a distinct black head. This raptor is celebrated for its incredible speed, often exceeding 320 km/h (200 mph) during its characteristic hunting stoop, making it the fastest member of the animal kingdom. The highest recorded speed for a Peregrine Falcon is an astonishing 389 km/h (242 mph).

Adult Peregrine Falcons have a blue-black to slate grey back with indistinct darker barring. Their underparts are white to rusty, barred with thin, clean bands of dark brown or black. The tail is similarly colored but with thin, clean bars. A notable feature is the black "moustache" that sharply contrasts with the pale sides of the neck and white throat. The cere and feet are yellow, while the beak and claws are black. Juveniles are browner with streaked underparts and a pale bluish cere.

Peregrine Falcons are found along mountain ranges, river valleys, coastlines, and increasingly in urban settings, where they utilize tall buildings as nesting sites.

The Peregrine Falcon's breeding range is extensive, spanning from the Arctic tundra to the tropics. It is nearly ubiquitous across the globe, save for extreme polar regions, very high mountains, and most tropical rainforests.

Peregrine Falcons are known for their high-speed hunting stoops. They are territorial during the breeding season, with nesting pairs spaced widely apart. They are adaptable and can thrive in urban environments, taking advantage of the abundance of prey such as pigeons and ducks.

The Peregrine Falcon's vocalizations include a series of loud, sharp "kek-kek-kek" calls, particularly during nesting or when intruders approach the nest.

Peregrine Falcons reach sexual maturity between one and three years of age and mate for life. They nest in a scrape, usually on cliff edges or, in urban areas, on tall structures. They lay a clutch of three to four eggs, which are incubated for about a month.

The Peregrine Falcon can be confused with other falcon species, but its size, distinctive stoop, and plumage patterns are usually distinguishing features.

The diet of the Peregrine Falcon consists almost exclusively of medium-sized birds, but it may also hunt small mammals, reptiles, or insects. Urban Peregrines often feed on pigeons and other city birds.

The Peregrine Falcon was once endangered due to pesticide use but has recovered remarkably well following the ban on DDT and concerted conservation efforts. It is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN.

25-6-2025 ULLAL DE BALDOVI, ALBUFERA - NOMAD DRAGONFLY (FEMALE) (Sympetrum fonscolombii)

The red-veined darter or nomad (Sympetrum fonscolombii) is a dragonfly of the genus Sympetrum.

Sympetrum fonscolombii was named under the protonym Libellula fonscolombii by the Belgian entomologist Edmond de Sélys Longchamps, in 1840, in honor of the French entomologist Étienne of Fonscolombe (hence the species name). Its name is sometimes spelt fonscolombei instead of fonscolombii but Askew (2004) gives the latter as the correct spelling.

Sympetrum fonscolombii can reach a body length of 38–40 millimetres (1.5–1.6 in). This species is similar to other Sympetrum species but a good view with binoculars should give a positive identification, especially with a male.

Males have a red abdomen, redder than many other Sympetrum species. The frons and the thorax are red-brown. The eyes are brown above and blue/grey below. The wings have red veins and the wing bases of the hind-wings are yellow. The pterostigma is pale yellow with a border of black veins.

Female are similar but the abdomen is ochre yellow, not red, with two black lines along each side. The wings have yellow veins at the costa, leading edge and base, not red veins as found in the males. The legs of both sexes are mostly black with some yellow.

Immature males are like females but often with more red and a single line along each side of the abdomen.

Male S. fonscolombii can be mistaken for Crocothemis erythraea as both are very red dragonflies with yellow bases to the wings, red veins and pale pterostigma. However C. erythraea has no black on the legs, a broader body and no black on the head. Also C. erythraea females do not oviposit in tandem. The gestalt image of these two species is different and with some experience are easy to tell apart.

24-6-2025 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - HOOKED STRIKING JUMPING SPIDER (Icius hamatus)

Icius hamatus is a species of 'jumping spiders' belonging to the family Salticidae.

This species is mainly present in Portugal, Spain, France, Italy, Poland, Greece and Romania.

The adults of these spiders reach approximately 5–7 millimetres (0.20–0.28 in) of length. They prefer dry and hot habitats ("xerothermic") and can mainly be encountered on sunny bushes, shrubs and walls of houses (synanthropic organism), where they actively pursue their preys.

In males the basic color of the hairy body is rusty brown, with a white longitudinal stripe and a white line on the edge of the opistosoma. The prosoma is mainly rusty brown, while the pedipalps and the legs are whitish. In the females the basic color is mainly brownish or greyish, with darker markings. These spiders have eight eyes with very large anterior median eyes and smaller on each side. Their eyesight is excellent and very useful in their way of hunting.

24-6-2025 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - MEDITERRANEAN SNOUTED POTTER WASP (Rhynchium oculatum)

A widespread species, found mainly around the warmer Mediterranean Countries of Europe and into North Africa; reaching over to the far eastern countries of Iran and neighbouring countries.

R. oculatum, is a large solitary Potter wasp, having an important part in the biological control of many lepidoptera (Geometridae, Tortricidae) Caterpillars, also Coleoptera, (Curculionidae, Chrysomelidae) Larvae of Beetles, which are preyed upon, to provide provisions for their young larvae.

The prey is paralised, then taken to her nesting site, usually the nest is found in decaying wooden holes and crevices, sealed with mud.

This wasp is beneficial to commercial growers and gardeners, as like most wasps, they are a natural biocontrol of garden pests, such as beetle larvae, flies and a variety of caterpillar pests.

Habitat: Many various locations, from dry scrub areas to rich meadows, grasslands, orchards, crop fields, urban gardens and wetlands, wherever their prey and nectar plants are to be found.

23-6-2025 JAVEA, ALICANTE - EUROPEAN SERIN (MALE) (Serinus serinus)

The European serin, or simply the serin (Serinus serinus), is a diminutive member of the finch family, Fringillidae. This sprightly bird is the smallest within its family, closely related to the Atlantic canary. It is characterized by its short tail and a length that spans a mere 11 to 12 centimeters. The serin's plumage is a tapestry of nature's palette, with upper parts dappled in dark-streaked greyish green and a conspicuous yellow rump. The underparts are a canvas of yellow breast and white belly, both adorned with heavy streaks.

When attempting to identify the European serin, look for the male's radiant yellow face and breast, which stand out against the greenish backdrop of its feathers. The male also boasts yellow wing bars and yellow tail sides, which can be quite helpful in distinguishing it from similar species. Both sexes share a buzzing trill of a song that resonates through their Mediterranean habitats.

The European serin is partial to open woodland and cultivated areas, often with a sprinkling of conifers. These environments provide the perfect backdrop for breeding and foraging.

This species has a breeding range that extends across southern and central Europe and into North Africa. Populations along the southern and Atlantic coasts tend to be resident, while those in the north are migratory, seeking warmer climates in southern Europe during the winter months.

23-6-2025 JAVEA, ALICANTE - TRICOLOR HIBISCUS (Hibiscus × rosa-sinensis)

Hibiscus × rosa-sinensis, known colloquially as Chinese hibiscus, China rose, Hawaiian hibiscus, rose mallow and shoeblack plant, is a cultigen of tropical hibiscus, a flowering plant in the Hibisceae tribe of the family Malvaceae. It is an artificial hybrid created in cultivation in pre-European times by Polynesians in the west Pacific from the species Hibiscus cooperi and H. kaute. It is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in the tropics and subtropics. The hibiscus is the national flower of Malaysia, where it holds official status, and is also considered the unofficial national flower of Haiti.

Hibiscus × rosa-sinensis is a bushy, evergreen shrub or small tree growing 2.5–5 m (8–16 ft) tall and 1.5–3 m (5–10 ft) wide. The plant has a branched taproot. Its stem is aerial, erect, green, cylindrical, and branched.

Its leaves are simple and petiolate, with alternate phyllotaxy. The leaf shape is ovate while the tip is acute, and the margin is serrated. Venation is unicostate reticulate, meaning the leaves' veins are branched or divergent. Their surfaces are glossy. Free lateral stipules are present.

Its flowers bloom in summer and autumn. They are solitary (axillary) and symmetrical. They are typically red, with five petals 10 cm (4 in) in diameter, with prominent orange-tipped red anthers. Cultivars and hybrids have flowers in a variety of colors as well as red: white, pink, orange, peach, yellow, blue, and purple. Some plants have double flowers.

22-6-2025 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - SMALL MARBLED MOTH (Eublemma parva)

Eublemma parva, the small marbled, is a moth of the family Erebidae. The species was first described by Jacob Hübner in 1808.

The Latin name parva means "the little one".

This species can be found from North Africa (Algeria, Egypt, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, southern Tunisia), Central and southern Africa (Eswatini Niger, South Africa, Sudan), and southern Europe to Central Asia. Also the Middle East, Turkey, Caucasus, Transcaucasia, Iraq, Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan and north-west India. It is a migratory species and can be found north of the Alps. These moths mainly inhabit hot and semi-arid areas of all kinds, including nutrient-poor grasslands, rocky slopes and scrubland.

The wingspan can reach 14–18 millimetres (0.55–0.71 in) Forewings are pale ochreous, tinged with yellowish, with a pale reddish median band bordered with white, preceded by brown suffusion. A brown tint is present near the apex. A black dot is visible on the discocellular. The submarginal line is pale and hardly marked and contains a black speck below the apex. The hind wings are brownish gray, whiter towards the base.

This species is rather similar to the purple marbled (Eublemma ostrina) and the scarce marbled (Eublemma minutata).

This species occurs in several generations each year. Adults are on wing from March to November. The larvae are light brown with reddish shades and longitudinal white lines. The hairs are rather sparse. The head and the prothoracic shield are brown. They can be found from July to September. They mainly feed on common Asteraceae such as common fleabane (Pulicaria dysenterica), ploughman's-spikenard (Inula conyzae), Limbarda crithmoides, Inula viscosa, Centaurea calcitrapa, Helichrysum and Gnaphalium species. Pupation usually occurs within these flowers.

22-6-2025 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - BRAZILIAN JASMINE (Mandevilla sanderi)

Mandevilla sanderi, the Brazilian jasmine, is a vine belonging to the genus Mandevilla. Grown as an ornamental plant, the species is endemic to the State of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil. It is a rapidly growing, creeping, perennial plant, pruning shoots about 60 cm per year.

Despite its common name, the species is not a "true jasmine" and not of the genus Jasminum.

Mandevilla sanderi is a shrub with a naturally bushy habit, 2–3 meters high, or 4.5 meters (15 feet) if the climate is warm. It is able to develop long, woody stems based on lignin and climbs by twining around some support. This twining growth is characterized by long internodes, small leaves and a stem rarely carrying flowers. The plant contains a white latex, which is viscous, toxic, and can be irritating. In addition to fine roots, it has large tuberous roots that contain starch and a reserve of water, allowing it to withstand drought. The evergreen, petiolate, thick, leathery, dark green leaves are opposite, and grow to 6 cm (2.5 in) long. The blade is ovate-elliptical, 5–6 cm long, with a glossy upper surface and a thick epidermis. The apex is shortly acuminate.

The inflorescences are simple racemes, usually terminal (sometimes axillary) that gather at a given moment, 3–4 pimples and a large blooming pink-red flower, 4–7 cm in diameter. Each flower has a chalice in cup with five teeth lanceolate-subulate scarious, a large corolla infundibular pink (funnel-shaped) formed of a cylindrical tube of 4–5 mm in diameter, which widens abruptly in a tube 15–18 × 25–30 mm, terminated by 5 oval lobes, acuminate, spreading, partially overlapping. The five stamens include threads inserted into the tube and connective anthers, forming a ring around the head. The long flowering period extends from spring to autumn. The flowers grow gradually from early summer to late winter, growing 2–3 on stalks in the leaf corners.

The fruit is dry, capsular, formed of two long follicles, and opens lengthwise like a silique.

22-6-2025 RIOLA, VALENCIA - VIOLET DROPWING DRAGONFLY (MALE) (Trithemis annulata)

Trithemis annulata, commonly known as the violet dropwing, violet-marked darter, purple-blushed darter, or plum-coloured dropwing, is a species of dragonfly in the family Libellulidae. It is found in most of Africa, the Middle East, and southern Europe. These dragonflies are called dropwings because of their habit of immediately lowering their wings after landing on a perch. Males of this species are violet-red with red veins in the wings, while females are yellow and brown. Both sexes have red eyes.

Trithemis annulata is a robust medium-sized species with a wingspan of 60 mm (2.4 in). The mature male has a dark red head and a yellow labium with a brown central spot. The eyes are red with white spots on the rear edge, and the frons is dark metallic purplish-red. The prothorax is violet with slightly darker longitudinal stripes. The membranous wings have distinctive red veins, the pterostigma is orange-brown, and there is a large orange-brown splash at the base of the hind wings. The abdomen is fairly broad and is pinkish-violet, with purple markings on the top of each segment and blackish markings on the terminal three segments. Females are a similar size to males, but the thorax is brownish, and the abdomen is yellow with dark brown markings. The wings of females lack the red veins of males but have similar orange-brown patches. It is very similar in appearance to the red-veined dropwing (Trithemis arteriosa), but that species has a more slender abdomen and a wedge-shaped black area on either side of the tip of the abdomen.

22-6-2025 RIOLA, VALENCIA - COMMON HOUSE MARTIN (Delichon urbicum)

The Western House Martin (Delichon urbicum), sometimes known as the Common House Martin, is a migratory passerine bird belonging to the swallow family. It is characterized by a blue head and upperparts, a distinctive white rump, and pure white underparts. This species exhibits sexual dimorphism, with both sexes appearing similar, and juveniles displaying a sooty black coloration with white-tipped wing coverts and quills.

Adults measure approximately 13 cm in length, with a wingspan ranging from 26 to 29 cm and an average weight of 18.3 grams. They possess brown eyes, a small black bill, and pink toes and exposed leg parts. The white rump and underparts are particularly noticeable in flight, aiding in distinguishing them from other swallows.

The Western House Martin favors open country with low vegetation, such as pastures, meadows, and farmland, often near water. It is also found in urban areas and can nest in city centers if air quality permits.

This bird breeds across Europe, North Africa, and the Palearctic, migrating to sub-Saharan Africa and tropical Asia for the winter. It is a broad-front migrant, traveling during daylight and feeding on insects in flight.

The Western House Martin is a social bird, often breeding colonially with nests built in close proximity. It is known for its aerial agility, which it uses to evade predators such as the Eurasian Hobby.

The male's song is a soft twitter of melodious chirps, while the contact call is a hard "chirrrp." The alarm call is a shrill "tseep."

Nests are constructed from mud pellets under eaves or similar overhangs on buildings, usually in colonies. The species is known to produce two broods per year, with four to five white eggs per brood. Juveniles fledge after 22 to 32 days and are fed by parents for about a week thereafter.

The Western House Martin can be confused with the Asian House Martin (D. dasypus) and the Nepal House Martin (D. nipalense), but it is the only one with a pure white rump and underparts.

The diet consists primarily of insects caught in flight, with a preference for flies and aphids. Hunting typically occurs within 450 meters of the nest and often near open ground or water.

The Western House Martin is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, with an extensive range and large population. However, there are indications of population fluctuations and declines in certain regions, attributed to factors such as weather, pesticides, and competition for nesting sites.

22-6-2025 ULLAL DE BALDOVI, ALBAFERA - PUISSANT'S GREEN WINGED GRASSHOPPER (Aiolopus puissanti)

Aiolopus puissanti is a species of band-winged grasshopper in the family Acrididae. It is found in southern Europe and northern Africa.

Puissant's Green-winged Grasshopper is a species of band-winged grasshopper (Aiolopus puissanti) found in southern Europe and northern Africa. It belongs to the family Acrididae and the subfamily Oedipodinae. The genus Aiolopus also includes other green-winged grasshoppers. 

Scientific Name: Aiolopus puissanti

Common Name: Puissant's Green-winged Grasshopper

Family: Acrididae (Grasshoppers)

Subfamily: Oedipodinae

Distribution: Southern Europe and northern Africa

The genus Aiolopus contains several other green-winged grasshopper species, including the Slender Green-winged Grasshopper (Aiolopus thalassinus).

Related terms: The term "green-winged grasshopper" can also refer to the genus Aiolopus as a whole.