16-4-2026 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.

16-4-2026 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - CURVED HORN MOTH (Symmoca signatella)

Symmoca signatella is a moth of the family Autostichidae. It is known from most of western Europe, but also Lithuania, Croatia, Greece and southern Russia. It has also been recorded from California in North America.

The wingspan is 12–15 mm. Adults are on wing in late summer and autumn.

The larvae feed on dried vegetable matter. They have been recorded feeding on dry leaves and plant debris on the stem and branches of Rosmarinus officinalis. The accumulation of debris was connected by light webbing.

Key Facts about Symmoca signatella

Family: Autostichidae.

Wingspan: 12–15 mm.

Appearance: Small, mottled grayish-brown moths with distinct darker markings.

Larval Diet: Larvae feed on dry vegetable matter, including dried leaves and debris, often in accumulated piles on Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) plants.

Habitat: Commonly found in dry, sunny areas, particularly in Southern Europe, notes LepiWiki.

Distribution: Widespread in Europe, including Spain, France, Germany, and Greece. It has been introduced to North America (e.g., California) and rarely in the UK.

Flight Season: Adults are primarily on the wing from August to September.

Behavior: The larvae create light webbing to connect debris, within which they live. 

15-4-2026 CAMI LES FONTS OLIVA, VALENCIA - MALLARD (MALE) (Anas platyrhynchos),

The Mallard, or wild duck (Anas platyrhynchos), is a familiar and widespread dabbling duck with a presence across temperate and subtropical regions of the Americas, Eurasia, and North Africa. It has also been introduced to parts of the Southern Hemisphere. The male is renowned for its iridescent green head and white collar, while the female sports a brown-speckled plumage. Both sexes boast a speculum—a patch of feathers with iridescent purple or blue hues bordered by white. The Mallard's length ranges from 50 to 65 cm, with a wingspan of 81 to 98 cm, and it typically weighs between 0.7 and 1.6 kg.

Males during the breeding season are unmistakable with their glossy green heads, white collars, and purple-tinged brown breasts. Females are mottled brown with buff cheeks and an eye-stripe. Both sexes have the distinctive speculum on their wings. The male's bill is yellowish-orange tipped with black, while the female's is darker, ranging from black to mottled orange and brown.

Mallards are found in a variety of wetlands, including parks, small ponds, rivers, lakes, and estuaries. They prefer water depths less than 0.9 meters and are drawn to areas with aquatic vegetation.

The Mallard, or wild duck (Anas platyrhynchos), is a familiar and widespread dabbling duck with a presence across temperate and subtropical regions of the Americas, Eurasia, and North Africa. It has also been introduced to parts of the Southern Hemisphere. The male is renowned for its iridescent green head and white collar, while the female sports a brown-speckled plumage. Both sexes boast a speculum—a patch of feathers with iridescent purple or blue hues bordered by white. The Mallard's length ranges from 50 to 65 cm, with a wingspan of 81 to 98 cm, and it typically weighs between 0.7 and 1.6 kg.

Males during the breeding season are unmistakable with their glossy green heads, white collars, and purple-tinged brown breasts. Females are mottled brown with buff cheeks and an eye-stripe. Both sexes have the distinctive speculum on their wings. The male's bill is yellowish-orange tipped with black, while the female's is darker, ranging from black to mottled orange and brown.

15-4-2026 CAMI LES FONTS OLIVA, VALENCIA - BARN SWALLOW (Hirundo rustica)

The barn swallow (Hirundo rustica) is a migratory passerine bird, recognized as the most widespread species of swallow in the world. It is a distinctive bird with blue upperparts and a long, deeply forked tail, known for its graceful flight and agile maneuvers. The adult male of the nominate subspecies is 17–19 cm in length, including elongated outer tail feathers, and has a wingspan of 32–34.5 cm. It is adorned with a rufous forehead, chin, and throat, which are set apart from the off-white underparts by a broad dark blue breast band. The outer tail feathers are elongated, contributing to the iconic "swallow tail."

The barn swallow can be identified by its steel blue upperparts, a rufous face, and a dark blue breast band that separates the rufous from the off-white underparts. The deeply forked tail is a key characteristic, with a line of white spots across the upper tail's outer end. Females resemble males but have shorter tail streamers and less glossy blue coloring. Juveniles are browner with paler rufous faces and whiter underparts, lacking the adult's long tail streamers.

The barn swallow favors open country with low vegetation, such as pastures, meadows, and farmland, often near water. It avoids heavily wooded or steep areas and densely built-up locations. The species typically nests in man-made structures like barns and stables, or under bridges and wharves.

This bird has a vast global range, breeding across the Northern Hemisphere and wintering in much of the Southern Hemisphere. Its distribution spans Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.

15-4-2026 CAMI LES FONTS OLIVA, VALENCIA - WESTERN HOUSE MARTIN (Delichon urbicum)

The western house martin (Delichon urbicum), sometimes called the common house martin, northern house martin or, particularly in Europe, just house martin, is a migratory passerine bird of the swallow family which breeds in Europe, north Africa and west-central Asia; and winters in sub-Saharan Africa and southwestern Asia. It feeds on insects which are caught in flight, and it migrates to climates where flying insects are plentiful. It has a blue head and upperparts, white rump and pure white underparts, and is found in both open country and near human habitation. It is similar in appearance to the two other martin species of the genus Delichon, which are both endemic to eastern and southern Asia. It has two accepted subspecies.

Both the scientific and colloquial name of the bird are related to its use of human-made structures. It builds a closed cup nest from mud pellets under eaves or similar locations on buildings usually in colonies.

It is hunted by the Eurasian hobby (Falco subbuteo), and like other birds is affected by internal parasites and external fleas and mites. Its large range and population mean that it is not threatened globally.

The adult western house martin is 13 cm (5 in) long, with a wingspan of 26–29 cm (10–11+1⁄2 in) and a weight averaging 18.3 g (21⁄32 oz). It is steel-blue above with a white rump, and white underparts, including the underwings; even its short legs have white downy feathering. It has brown eyes and a small black bill, and its toes and exposed parts of the legs are pink. The sexes are similar, but the juvenile bird is sooty black, and some of its wing coverts and quills have white tips and edgings. D. u. lagopodum differs from the nominate race in that its white rump extends much further onto the tail, and the fork of its tail is intermediate in depth between that of D. u. urbicum and that of the Asian house martin.

The white rump and underparts of the western house martin, very noticeable in flight, prevent confusion with other widespread Palaeoarctic swallows such as the barn swallow (Hirundo rustica), sand martin (Riparia riparia) or red-rumped swallow (Cecropis daurica). In Africa, confusion with grey-rumped swallow (Pseudhirundo griseopyga) is possible, but that species has a grey rump, off-white underparts and long, deeply forked tail. The western house martin flies with a wing beat averaging 5.3 beats per second, which is faster than the wing beat of 4.4 beats per second for the barn swallow, but the flight speed of 11 m/s (36 ft/s) is typical for hirundines.

The preferred habitat of the western house martin is open country with low vegetation, such as pasture, meadows and farmland, and preferably near water, although it is also found in mountains up to at least 2,200 m (7,200 ft) elevation. It is much more urban than the barn swallow, and will nest even in city centres if the air is clean enough. It is more likely to be found near trees than other Eurasian swallows, since they provide insect food and also roosting sites. This species does not normally use the reed-bed roosts favoured by migrating barn swallows.

It uses similar open habitats on the wintering grounds, but the western house martin is less conspicuous than wintering barn swallows, tending to fly higher and be more nomadic. In the tropical parts of its wintering range, like East Africa, it appears to be mainly found in the higher areas.

Breeding birds return to Europe between April and May, and nest building starts between late March in North Africa and mid-June in Lapland. The nest is a neat closed convex cup fixed below a suitable ledge, with a narrow opening at the top. It is constructed by both sexes with mud pellets collected in their beaks, and lined with grasses, hair or other soft materials. The mud, added in successive layers, is collected from ponds, streams or puddles. House sparrows frequently attempt to take over the nest during construction, with the house martins rebuilding elsewhere if they are successful. The entrance at the top of the cup is so small once it is complete that sparrows cannot take over the nest.

The western house martin tends to breed colonially, and nests may be built in contact with each other. A colony size of less than 10 nests is typical, but there are records of colonies with thousands of nests. Four or five white eggs are usually laid, which average 1.9 cm × 1.33 cm (3⁄4 in × 17⁄32 in) in size, and weigh 1.7 g (1⁄16 oz). The female does most of the incubation, which normally lasts 14–16 days. The newly hatched chicks are altricial, and after a further 22–32 days, depending on weather, the chicks leave the nest. The fledged young stay with, and are fed by, the parents for about a week after leaving the nest. Occasionally, first-year birds from the first brood will assist in feeding the second brood.

15-4-2026 CAMI LES FONTS OLIVA, VALENCIA - EUROPEAN RED RUMPED SWALLOW (Cecropis rufula)

The European red-rumped swallow (Cecropis rufula) is a small passerine bird in the swallow family Hirundinidae. Historically, it was usually treated in a broad concept of the genus Hirundo, but is now treated in the genus Cecropis. It was formerly considered to be a subspecies of the eastern red-rumped swallow (Cecropis daurica), united, together with the African red-rumped swallow (C. melanocrissus, syn. C. domicella), under the common name of red-rumped swallow.

European red-rumped swallow is somewhat similar in habits and appearance to the other aerial insectivores, such as the related swallows and the unrelated swifts (order Apodiformes). It has blue-glossed black upperparts and pale buffy underparts. Within Europe, it most closely resembles barn swallow, but is easily distinguished by being buffier below, with pale orangey or reddish rump, a pale buffy face and throat, and an orangey-red nape collar. It lacks the breast band of barn swallow, but has a black undertail, giving the appearance of the whole tail as being 'dipped in ink' and lacking the white tail spots of barn swallow. The tail is deeply forked, much more than western house martin but slightly less than barn swallow. It is a fast flier with long, broad but pointed wings, and swoops on insects while airborne. On its wintering grounds, it can only be distinguished from the African red-rumped swallow by the rump being slightly broader and less strongly rufous orange. Eastern red-rumped swallow is a rare vagrant in Europe; it can be distinguished from its European relative by the streaked underparts, and lack of a clear rufous nape collar.

Juveniles differ from adults in having duller (slightly greyish black, not blue-glossed) upperparts, a paler buffy white rump, and slightly shorter tail streamers, though the tail is still more deeply forked than western house martins.

The European red-rumped swallow was formally described in 1835 by the Dutch zoologist Coenraad Jacob Temminck under the binomial name Hirundo rufula.] The specific epithet is from Latin rufulus meaning "reddish". The species was formerly treated as a subspecies of the red-rumped swallow (Cecropis daurica) now renamed the eastern red-rumped swallow. The species were split based on differences in morphology and genetic divergence. The European red-rumped swallow is monotypic, with no subspecies.

It breeds in open country of northwest Africa, southern Europe and southwest and central Asia east to Kazakhstan, northern and western Pakistan and the far northwest of India. During winter it migrates to Africa, mainly in the Sahel and Sudanian savanna regions; its wintering range is not clearly known due to the ease of confusion with the very similar African red-rumped swallow (C. melanocrissus, syn. C. domicella) which is resident in the region. In northern Europe, it is a scarce but regular migrant in small numbers, mainly as a spring overshoot, but also some in autumn.

These swallows are usually found over hilly and montane grassland, farmland, gardens, villages, and open woodland, where they hawk for insects, often together with other swallows and martins.

European red-rumped swallows build quarter-sphere nests with a tunnel entrance lined with mud collected in their beaks, and lay 3 to 6 eggs. They nest under cliff overhangs, and have readily adapted to using buildings such as bridges and road underpasses. They do not normally form large breeding colonies, but are gregarious outside the breeding season.

13-4-2026 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - MEDITERRANEAN PALE GLOW-WORM (Nyctophila reichii)

The Mediterranean pale glow-worm (Nyctophila reichii) is a species of beetle belonging to the Lampyridae family. While often referred to as "glow-worms," these insects are technically fireflies that lack wings in their female adult form.

Here are key facts about the Mediterranean pale glow-worm:

Biology and AppearanceScientific Name: Nyctophila reichii.

Appearance: They have segmented, larviform bodies. The females and larvae look similar, but larvae can be distinguished by red spots along the edges of their segments.

Bioluminescence: Adult females emit a steady, yellowish-green light from their abdomen to attract flying males.

Life Cycle: They undergo complete metamorphosis (larva, pupa, adult). Larvae can live for 2–3 years.Diet: As larvae, they are voracious predators, feeding on snails, slugs, and other small invertebrates. Adults usually do not eat.

13-4-2026 GANDIA GRAU, VALENCIA - SPANISH SNAIL (Otala punctata)

Otala punctata is a species of air-breathing land snail, a terrestrial pulmonate gastropod mollusk in the family Helicidae.

This species occurs in the Mediterranean basin - Andorra, Spain, the Balearic Islands, France, Corsica, Sardinia and Malta

This species is already established in the United States, and is considered to represent a potentially serious threat as a pest, an invasive species which could negatively affect agriculture, natural ecosystems, human health or commerce. Therefore, it has been suggested that this species be given top national quarantine significance in the USA.

2-7-2020 ROSSELL, CASTELLON - EURASIAN GOLDEN ORIOLE (Oriolus oriolus),

The Eurasian golden oriole (Oriolus oriolus), also known as the common golden oriole, is a species of passerine bird and the only Old World oriole breeding in Northern Hemisphere temperate regions. It is a summer migrant in Europe and the Palearctic and spends the winter season in central and southern Africa.

The Eurasian golden oriole was formally described by Carl Linnaeus in 1758 in the tenth edition of his Systema Naturae. He named the species Coracias oriolus, assigning it to the genus Coracias, which now contains only rollers. The species is now placed in the genus Oriolus that Linnaeus introduced in 1766, creating a tautonym.

The Eurasian golden oriole and the Indian golden oriole were formerly considered conspecific, but in 2005 they were treated as separate species by the ornithologists Pamela Rasmussen and John Anderton, in the first edition of their Birds of South Asia. Support for this split was provided by a molecular phylogenetic study published in 2010, and most ornithologists now treat the Indian golden oriole as a separate species. Alternate names for the Eurasian golden oriole include the European golden oriole and western Eurasian golden oriole. The species is monotypic; no subspecies are recognized.

22-2-2026 MADIKWE GAME RESERVE, SOUTH AFRICA - SOUTHEAST AFRICAN CHEETAH (Acinonyx jubatus jubatus) (COURTESY OF MRS VALERIE FISHER)

 The Southeast African cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus jubatus) is the nominate cheetah subspecies native to East and Southern Africa. The Southern African cheetah lives mainly in the lowland areas and deserts of the Kalahari, the savannahs of Okavango Delta, and the grasslands of the Transvaal region in South Africa. In Namibia, cheetahs are mostly found in farmlands. In India, four cheetahs of the subspecies are living in Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh after having been introduced there.

21-2-2026 MADIKWE GAME RESERVE, S AFRICA - BURCHELL'S ZEBRA

 Burchell's zebra (Equus quagga burchellii) is a southern subspecies of the plains zebra. It is named after the British explorer and naturalist William John Burchell. Common names include bontequagga, Damaraland zebra, and Zululand zebra (Gray, 1824). Burchell's zebra is the only subspecies of zebra which may be legally farmed for human consumption.

Like most plains zebras, females and males are about the same size, standing 1.1 to 1.4 metres (3 ft 7 in to 4 ft 7 in) at the shoulder. They weigh between 230 and 320 kilograms (500 and 700 lb). Year-round reproduction observed in this subspecies in Etosha National Park, Namibia, concludes synchronization of a time budget between males and females, possibly explaining the lack of sexual dimorphism.

Burchell's zebras are described as being striped on the head, the neck, and the flanks, and sparsely down the upper segments of the limbs then fading to white. One or two shadow stripes rest between the bold, broad stripes on the haunch. This main distinguishing characteristic sets the Burchell's zebra apart from the other subspecies. Gray (1824) observed a distinct dorsal line, the tail only bristly at the end, and the body distinctly white. The dorsal line is narrow and becomes gradually broader toward the rear, distinctly margined with white on each side.

Like most plains zebras, Burchell's live in small family groups. These can be either harem or bachelor groups, with harem groups consisting of one stallion and one to six mares and their most recent foals, and bachelor groups containing two to eight unattached stallions. The males in bachelor herds are often the younger or older stallions of the population, as they are most likely not experienced enough or strong enough to defend breeding rights to a group of females from challengers. These small groups often congregate in larger herds around water and food sources, but still maintain their identity as family units while in the population gatherings.

Formerly, the Burchell's zebra range was centred north of the Vaal/Orange river system, extending northwest via southern Botswana to Etosha and the Kaokoveld, and southeast to Eswatini and KwaZulu-Natal. Now extirpated in the middle portion, it survives at the northwestern and southeastern ends of the distribution.

Burchell's zebra migrates the longest distance of any terrestrial animal in Africa, making a round trip of 500 kilometres (300 mi). They migrate from the Chobe River in Namibia to Nxai Pan National Park in Botswana. Their migration follows a straight north–south route almost entirely within the Kavango–Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA).

21-2-2026 MADIKWE GAME RESERVE, S AFRICA - SOUTHERN GIRAFFE (Giraffa giraffa)

The southern giraffe (Giraffa giraffa), also known as two-horned giraffe, is a species of giraffe native to Southern Africa. The IUCN recognises four giraffe species, with several recognised subspecies.

Southern giraffes have rounded or blotched spots, some with star-like extensions on a light tan background, running down to the hooves. They range from South Africa, Angola, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique. Their approximate population is composed of 44,500 to 50,000 individuals.

Giraffes are considered Vulnerable to extinction by the IUCN.

The South African subspecies of the southern giraffe has dark, somewhat rounded patches "with some fine projections" on a tawny background colour. The spots extend down the legs and get smaller. The median lump of bulls is less developed.

The southern giraffes live in the savannahs and woodlands of northern South Africa, Angola, southern Botswana, southern Zimbabwe, Zambia and south-western Mozambique. After local extinctions in various places, South African giraffes have been reintroduced in many parts of Southern Africa, including Eswatini, Majete Game Reserve in Malawi, and Maputo and Zinave National Parks in Mozambique, the Angolan giraffe has been reintroduced to the Cuatir Conservation Area in Southern Angola and starting in 2023 Iona National Park on the north bank of the Cunene River.

They are common in both inside and outside of protected areas.

Southern giraffes usually live in savannahs and woodlands where food plants are available. Southern giraffes are herbivorous mammals. They feed on leaves, flowers, fruits and shoots of woody plants such as Acacia.

Southern giraffes are not threatened, as their population is increasing.

21-2-2026 RHULANI LODGE MANDIKWE, S AFRICA - TIARA GIANT STICK INSECT (Bactrododema tiaratum)

 

Bactrododema tiaratum, known as the tiara giant stick insect or southern African giant stick insect, is a large, herbivorous phasmid found in savanna habitats across southern Africa, including Botswana, South Africa, and Namibia. These nocturnal, slow-moving insects resemble branches for camouflage and are part of the Diapheromeridae family.

Key Facts About Bactrododema tiaratum:Habitat and Range: Native to southern Africa (Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Namibia, South Africa, Zimbabwe), usually found in savanna bushveld.

Appearance: They exhibit remarkable camouflage, resembling sticks or branches in both color and texture.

Lifestyle: They are nocturnal, slow-moving herbivores.

Defense Mechanism: When threatened, they may adopt a defensive posture, sometimes curling their tail up to mimic a scorpion, although they are harmless and cannot sting or bite.

Reproduction: Species within this genus, including B. cf. tiaratum, are known to glue their eggs onto surfaces.

Taxonomy: Classified under the family Diapheromeridae, subfamily Palophinae.

Conservation: The IUCN status is not evaluated, but they are common within their native range.

Size: They are among the "giant" stick insects, with related species in the same genus reaching lengths of up to 30 cm.

Camouflage: Their bodies are elongated and brown or mottled to mimic dry sticks or twigs.

Features: Females are often sturdier and can have spines or broad tubercles on their heads.Diet: Like most phasmids, they are herbivores that primarily feed on leaves.

Naming Confusion: It is often confused with Extatosoma tiaratum (the Giant Prickly Stick Insect from Australia) due to the similar species name, but they are geographically and physically distinct.

21-2-2026 MADIKWE GAME RESERVE, S AFRICA - ELEGANT GRASSHOPPER (Zonocerus elegans)

The elegant grasshopper (Zonocerus elegans) is a brightly colored, toxic, and often sluggish insect found in sub-Saharan Africa and Madagascar. Known for its bold yellow, black, and orange coloring, it feeds on poisonous plants to deter predators, often causing significant damage to crops like cassava.

Key Characteristics and Biology

Appearance: Striking coloration with bright orange eyes, yellow bands, and a black body. 

Size: Adults are 3 to 5 cm long, with females usually larger than males.

21-2-2026 MADIKWE GAME RESERVE, S AFRICA - DAMARA SKINK (Trachylepis damarana)

Trachylepis damarana, also known as the Damara skink or Damara variable skink, is a species of skink.  It is found in southern Africa, specifically in south-eastern Angola, northern Namibia, western Zambia, northern and eastern Botswana, Zimbabwe, north-eastern South Africa, and western Mozambique.

Trachylepis damarana is a very common terrestrial skink inhabiting open, rocky habitats in savanna. It has fully developed limbs and can reach 68 mm (2.7 in) in snout–vent length.

The Damara skink (Trachylepis damarana), also known as the Damara variable skink, is a common terrestrial lizard found across southern Africa. It belongs to the genus Trachylepis, a name that literally means "rough-scaled".

Quick FactsSize: These skinks typically reach a snout-to-vent length (SVL) of about 68 mm (2.7 inches).Appearance: They are generally light brown with dark brown or black spots and white flecks that often form short bands. They usually feature a pale dorsal stripe and distinct pale stripes along their sides.Habitat: They prefer open, rocky habitats in savanna regions.

Geographic Range: They are native to several southern African countries, including:Namibia (specifically the Damaraland region)Angola (south-eastern)Botswana (northern and eastern)

21-2-2026 MADIKWE GAME RESERVE, S AFRICA - GREEN TREE LOCUST (Cyrtacanthacris aeruginosa)

Cyrtacanthacris aeruginosa or simply green tree locust is a large species of grasshopper that can be found in the grasslands of Africa. They pertain to the genus Cyrtacanthacris and are composed by three subspecies, C. a. aeruginosa, C. a. flavescens and C. a. goldingi, all three of them descend from a unique ancestor. The species is univoltine, that is, it only produces one brood of offspring per year, furthermore it also experiences egg diapause, meaning that the eggs have a phase of suspended or arrested growth. In terms of overwintering strategy, Aeruginosa adults mate and then the female lay the eggs and die before the dry season, the eggs stay in diapause for 7 months and take 45–67 days to incubate.

21-2-2026 MADIKWE GAME RESERVE, S AFRICA - AFRICAN SAVANNA ELEPHANT (Loxodonta Africana)

 The African bush elephant (Loxodonta africana), also known as the African savanna elephant, is a species of elephant native to sub-Saharan Africa. It is one of three extant elephant species and, along with the African forest elephant, one of two extant species of African elephant. It is the largest living terrestrial animal, with fully grown bulls reaching an average shoulder height of 3.04–3.36 metres (10.0–11.0 ft) and a body mass of 5.2–6.9 tonnes (5.7–7.6 short tons); the largest recorded specimen had a shoulder height of 3.96 metres (13.0 ft) and an estimated body mass of 10.4 tonnes (11.5 short tons). The African bush elephant is characterised by its long prehensile trunk with two finger-like processes; a convex back; large ears which help reduce body heat; and sturdy tusks that are noticeably curved. The skin is grey with scanty hairs, and bending cracks which support thermoregulation by retaining water. 

11-4-2026 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - GARDEN LOBELIA (Lobelia erinus)

Lobelia erinus (edging lobelia, garden lobelia or trailing lobelia) is a species of flowering plant in the bellflower family Campanulaceae, native to southern Africa.

It is a low growing, prostrate or scrambling herbaceous perennial plant growing to 8–15 cm tall. The basal leaves are oval, 10 mm long and 4–8 mm broad, with a toothed margin; leaves higher on the stems are slender and sometimes untoothed.

The flowers are blue to violet in wild plants, with a five-lobed corolla 8–20 mm across; they are produced in loose panicles. About 0.5 to 4.5 inches long inflorescence stems are about 5 inches long, loose racemose inflorescences with many flowers. The hermaphrodite flower is zygomorphic with a length of up to 1 centimeter and quinate with double perianth. The five sepals are fused. The fan-shaped lower lip is trilobed. The color of the crown varies depending on the variety between white, blue, purple, pink or red and the center is yellow or white. The five stamens are 3 to 7 millimeters long.

The fruit is a 5–8 mm capsule containing numerous small seeds.

The distribution area lies in southern Africa and extends from Malawi, Mozambique, Zambia and Zimbabwe to the south to Botswana, Namibia, Eswatini, Lesotho and the South African provinces. L. erinus also occurs as a weed where it has escaped from cultivation.

Lobelia erinus is a very popular edging plant in gardens, especially for hanging baskets and window boxes. In temperate zones it is grown as a half-hardy annual, i.e. sown under glass with some heat in spring, then planted out when all danger of frost has passed. Alternatively plants can be purchased from garden centres as young "plug" plants, to be transferred outside in May or June.

21-2-2026 MADIKWE GAME RESERVE, S AFRICA - BURCHELL'S ZEBRA (Equus quagga ssp. burchellii)

Burchell's zebra (Equus quagga burchellii) is a southern subspecies of the plains zebra. It is named after the British explorer and naturalist William John Burchell. Common names include bontequagga, Damaraland zebra, and Zululand zebra (Gray, 1824). Burchell's zebra is the only subspecies of zebra which may be legally farmed for human consumption.

Like most plains zebras, females and males are about the same size, standing 1.1 to 1.4 metres (3 ft 7 in to 4 ft 7 in) at the shoulder. They weigh between 230 and 320 kilograms (500 and 700 lb). Year-round reproduction observed in this subspecies in Etosha National Park, Namibia, concludes synchronization of a time budget between males and females, possibly explaining the lack of sexual dimorphism.

Burchell's zebras are described as being striped on the head, the neck, and the flanks, and sparsely down the upper segments of the limbs then fading to white. One or two shadow stripes rest between the bold, broad stripes on the haunch. This main distinguishing characteristic sets the Burchell's zebra apart from the other subspecies. Gray (1824) observed a distinct dorsal line, the tail only bristly at the end, and the body distinctly white. The dorsal line is narrow and becomes gradually broader toward the rear, distinctly margined with white on each side.

A pair of Grant’s zebra at Lake Nakuru National Park, Kenya. Notice there are no shadow stripes, and the stripes extend all the way to the hooves.

Like most plains zebras, Burchell's live in small family groups. These can be either harem or bachelor groups, with harem groups consisting of one stallion and one to six mares and their most recent foals, and bachelor groups containing two to eight unattached stallions. The males in bachelor herds are often the younger or older stallions of the population, as they are most likely not experienced enough or strong enough to defend breeding rights to a group of females from challengers. These small groups often congregate in larger herds around water and food sources, but still maintain their identity as family units while in the population gatherings.

Formerly, the Burchell's zebra range was centred north of the Vaal/Orange river system, extending northwest via southern Botswana to Etosha and the Kaokoveld, and southeast to Eswatini and KwaZulu-Natal. Now extirpated in the middle portion, it survives at the northwestern and southeastern ends of the distribution.

Burchell's zebra migrates the longest distance of any terrestrial animal in Africa, making a round trip of 500 kilometres (300 mi). They migrate from the Chobe River in Namibia to Nxai Pan National Park in Botswana. Their migration follows a straight north–south route almost entirely within the Kavango–Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA).

22-2-2026 MADIKWE GAME RESERVE, S AFRICA - SOUTHERN WHITE RHINOCEROS (Ceratotherium simum simum)

The white rhinoceros, also known as the white rhino or square-lipped rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum), is the largest extant species of rhinoceros and the most social of all rhino species, characterized by its wide mouth adapted for grazing. The species includes two subspecies with dramatically different conservation outlooks: the southern white rhinoceros, with an estimated 17,464 individuals in the wild as of the end of 2023, and the northern white rhinoceros.

The northern subspecies is critically endangered and on the brink of extinction; its last known male, Sudan, died in March 2018, leaving behind only a very small number of females in captivity. Both subspecies have faced significant threats, primarily from poaching for their horns and habitat loss, which contribute to the species' overall conservation status of Near Threatened. White rhinoceros can run up to 40 mph (64 km/h) for very short bursts. They can maintain speeds of around 30–31 mph (48–50 km/h) for a good amount of time, and they have good stamina.

Southern white rhinos are the most abundant of the five rhino species, listed as "Near Threatened" rather than extinct, with around 18,000 living in protected, primarily South African, savannah habitats. They are massive, social grazers weighing up to 5,000 lbs, easily identified by their wide, square mouths used for eating grass. 

Key Southern White Rhino Facts:

Appearance: Despite their name, they are grey in color, not white. The name comes from a misinterpretation of the Afrikaans word wyd (wide), referring to their broad, square upper lip, which is perfectly adapted for grazing.

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Size & Speed: These are the largest of all rhino species. Males can weigh up to 5,000–6,000 lbs (2.3–2.7 tonnes) and reach 12–13 ft in length. Despite their bulk, they can run at speeds of up to to 30 to 35 mph.

Habitat & Range: They live in the grasslands and savannahs of Southern Africa, particularly in South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe.

Behavior: They are the most social of all rhino species, with females often seen in groups with their calves. They are notoriously fond of wallowing in mud to protect their skin from insects and the sun.

Horns: They have two horns made of keratin (the same substance as human hair and fingernails), with the front horn being longer. They use these for defense and for guiding their young.

Diet: They are grazers, which means they feed exclusively on grass, unlike black rhinos, which are browsers that eat shrubs and trees.

Threats & Conservation: While they have made a significant comeback from the brink of extinction in the early 20th century, they are still threatened by poaching for their horns.

Predators: Adult white rhinos have no natural predators, though calves can be targeted by lions, hyenas, and crocodiles.

21-2-2026 MADIKWE GAME RESERVE, S AFRICA - SOUTHEAST AFRICAN CHEETAH (Acinonyx jubatus jubatus)

The Southeast African cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus jubatus) is the nominate cheetah subspecies native to East and Southern Africa. The Southern African cheetah lives mainly in the lowland areas and deserts of the Kalahari, the savannahs of Okavango Delta, and the grasslands of the Transvaal region in South Africa. In Namibia, cheetahs are mostly found in farmlands. In India, four cheetahs of the subspecies are living in Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh after having been introduced there.

The cheetah is a medium-sized cat. An adult male cheetah's total size can measure from 168 to 213 cm (66 to 84 in) and 162 to 200 cm (64 to 79 in) for females. Adult cheetahs are 70 to 90 cm (28 to 35 in) tall at the shoulder. Males are slightly taller than females and have slightly bigger heads with wider incisors and longer mandibles. 

The Southeast African cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus jubatus) is the most populous subspecies, with over 6,000 in the wild, primarily in Namibia, Botswana, and South Africa. Known as the fastest land animal, they reach speeds up to 112 km/h, featuring a slender build, golden fur with dense spots, and thick tear marks. They are vulnerable due to habitat loss and human-wildlife conflict.Key Facts About the Southeast African CheetahAppearance: They have light yellow to golden-yellow fur that is slightly thicker than other subspecies. They have prominent black tear marks under their eyes that act as anti-glare mechanisms for daytime hunting.

Physical Traits: They weigh between 47 and 145 lbs (males are generally larger) and are built for speed with a flexible spine, deep chest, and non-retractable claws that act as cleats for traction.Habitat: They prefer open woodlands, savannahs, scrub forests, and mountainous areas where they can hunt.Diet & Hunting: They are carnivores that hunt during the day to avoid competition with lions and hyenas, targeting small antelopes like impala, springbok, and steenbok.

Population: Namibia boasts the largest population, estimated at over 3,500 individuals.Social Life: Females are solitary, while males often form long-term coalitions with siblings or other males.Reproduction: Cubs are born in litters of 3–5 and have a silver-grey fur mantle on their backs to help them hide. Only about 5% of cubs survive to adulthood due to predation.Conservation Status: Currently listed as Vulnerable.

10-4-2026 SEQUIA DEL COMUNAT, ALBUFERA - 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.

10-4-2026 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.

10-4-2026 EL PALMAR, ALBUFERA - BARN SWALLOW (Hirundo rustica)

The barn swallow (Hirundo rustica) is a migratory passerine bird, recognized as the most widespread species of swallow in the world. It is a distinctive bird with blue upperparts and a long, deeply forked tail, known for its graceful flight and agile maneuvers. The adult male of the nominate subspecies is 17–19 cm in length, including elongated outer tail feathers, and has a wingspan of 32–34.5 cm. It is adorned with a rufous forehead, chin, and throat, which are set apart from the off-white underparts by a broad dark blue breast band. The outer tail feathers are elongated, contributing to the iconic "swallow tail."

The barn swallow can be identified by its steel blue upperparts, a rufous face, and a dark blue breast band that separates the rufous from the off-white underparts. The deeply forked tail is a key characteristic, with a line of white spots across the upper tail's outer end. Females resemble males but have shorter tail streamers and less glossy blue coloring. Juveniles are browner with paler rufous faces and whiter underparts, lacking the adult's long tail streamers.

The barn swallow favors open country with low vegetation, such as pastures, meadows, and farmland, often near water. It avoids heavily wooded or steep areas and densely built-up locations. The species typically nests in man-made structures like barns and stables, or under bridges and wharves.

This bird has a vast global range, breeding across the Northern Hemisphere and wintering in much of the Southern Hemisphere. Its distribution spans Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.