20-3-2017 MIAMI, FLORIDA - BOAT TAILED GRACKLE (FEMALE) (Quiscalus major)

The boat-tailed grackle (Quiscalus major) is a striking bird, with the male boasting a glossy, iridescent black plumage and a distinctive keel-shaped tail, measuring 37–43 cm in length. The female, considerably smaller at 26–33 cm, is cloaked in tawny-brown with darker wings and tail. Both sexes exhibit a robust physique, but it is the male's long dark bill and pale yellowish or brown iris that often catch the observer's eye.

Adult males are entirely black with a shimmering iridescence and a pronounced tail. Females are smaller, with a shorter tail and brownish coloration. The wingspan ranges from 39–50 cm. Juvenile males resemble the adults but lack the iridescence, while immature females are duller with possible blotches on the breast. Eye color varies geographically, with Gulf Coast and inland birds having dark eyes, and Atlantic birds pale eyes.

The male boat-tailed grackle is 37–43 cm (15–17 in) long and weighs 165–250 g (5.8–8.8 oz).[4] Adult males have entirely iridescent black plumage, a long dark bill, a pale yellowish or brown iris, and a long keel-shaped tail. The adult female is much smaller at 26–33 cm (10–13 in) long and a weight of 90–115 g (3.2–4.1 oz).[5] She is also distinguished by her shorter tail and tawny-brown coloration, which covers the body apart from the darker wings and tail. The wingspan in adult birds is 39–50 cm (15–20 in). In standard measurements, this species measures 13–20 cm (5.1–7.9 in) along the wing bone, 11–20 cm (4.3–7.9 in) in tail length, 2–4.2 cm (0.79–1.65 in) along the culmen, and 3.6–5.8 cm (1.4–2.3 in) along the tarsus. On average, the boat-tailed grackle weighs about 10% more than the closely related great-tailed grackle, although the male great-tailed grackle has an even longer tail.

The nest is a well-concealed cup in trees or shrubs near water; the average clutch size is just over three eggs.

They forage on the ground, in shallow water, or in shrubs; they will steal food from other birds. They are omnivorous, eating insects, minnows, frogs, eggs, berries, seeds, grain, and even small birds.

The vocal repertoire of the boat-tailed grackle includes a harsh "jeeb" and an array of grackle-like chatters and squeaks, each call as distinctive as the bird itself.

Nests are well-concealed cups situated in trees or shrubs near water, with an average clutch size slightly exceeding three eggs.

The great-tailed grackle is similar but has a longer tail and lacks the domed head of the boat-tailed grackle. The common grackle is smaller, with a shorter tail and no domed head, and often shares habitat with the boat-tailed grackle along the Atlantic coast.

An omnivorous bird, the boat-tailed grackle's diet includes insects, minnows, frogs, eggs, berries, seeds, grain, and occasionally small birds.

The boat-tailed grackle is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating a stable population without immediate threats to its survival.

20-3-2017 MIAMI, FLORIDA - BOAT TAILED GRACKLE (MALE) (Quiscalus major)

The boat-tailed grackle (Quiscalus major ) is a passerine bird of the family Icteridae found as a permanent resident on the coasts of the Southeastern United States.

The male boat-tailed grackle is 37–43 cm (15–17 in) long and weighs 165–250 g (5.8–8.8 oz). Adult males have entirely iridescent black plumage, a long dark bill, a pale yellowish or brown iris, and a long keel-shaped tail. The adult female is much smaller at 26–33 cm (10–13 in) long and a weight of 90–115 g (3.2–4.1 oz). She is also distinguished by her shorter tail and tawny-brown coloration, which covers the body apart from the darker wings and tail. The wingspan in adult birds is 39–50 cm (15–20 in). In standard measurements, this species measures 13–20 cm (5.1–7.9 in) along the wing bone, 11–20 cm (4.3–7.9 in) in tail length, 2–4.2 cm (0.79–1.65 in) along the culmen, and 3.6–5.8 cm (1.4–2.3 in) along the tarsus. On average, the boat-tailed grackle weighs about 10% more than the closely related great-tailed grackle, although the male great-tailed grackle has an even longer tail.

Young males are black but lack the adult's iridescence. Immature females are duller versions of the adult female and have blotches or spots on the breast. The eye color of the boat-tailed grackle varies with range. Gulf Coast and inland birds have dark eyes, whereas Atlantic birds have pale eyes.

The boat-tailed grackle is found in coastal saltwater marshes and, in Florida, also on inland waters. Boat-tailed grackles have established significant populations in several United States Gulf Coast cities and towns, where they can be found foraging in trash bins, dumpsters, and parking lots.

They forage on the ground, in shallow water, or in shrubs; they will steal food from other birds. They are omnivorous, eating insects, minnows, frogs, eggs, berries, seeds, grain, and even small birds.

5-5-2017 SEVILLE, ANDALUCIA - 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.

Barn swallows are semi-colonial and may settle in groups. They exhibit site fidelity, often returning to the same location annually for breeding. The species is known for its aerial insectivory, catching insects in flight with remarkable agility.

The barn swallow communicates with a variety of calls, including a "witt or witt-witt" and a loud "splee-plink" when excited or deterring intruders. Alarm calls include a sharp "siflitt" for terrestrial predators and a "flitt-flitt" for avian predators. The male's song, used for territory defense and mate attraction, consists of a twittering warble followed by a series of musical notes.

Barn swallows are monogamous and often mate for life, with the male arriving first at the breeding grounds to select a nest site. They build cup-shaped mud nests lined with soft materials, frequently in colonies where each pair defends a territory. The female typically lays two to seven spotted white eggs, with the clutch size varying by latitude.

The diet consists mainly of flying insects, which the barn swallow captures in open areas or follows animals and humans to catch disturbed prey. It may also pick insects from water surfaces, walls, and plants. The species drinks and bathes by skimming over water bodies.

The barn swallow is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, with an extensive range and large global population. While not endangered, local declines may occur due to specific threats, such as habitat loss or pesticide use. However, the species has benefited from human expansion and the availability of nesting sites.

5-5-2017 SEVILLE, ANDALUCIA - EURASIAN BLACKBIRD (MALE) (Turdus merula)

The Common Blackbird, Turdus merula, is a true thrush and a familiar sight in gardens and woodlands. The male is distinguished by its all-black plumage, bright yellow eye-ring, and orange-yellow bill, which darkens slightly during winter. Females and juveniles are more demure in their attire, sporting mainly dark brown feathers.

Adult males are entirely black with the exception of the yellow eye-ring and bill. Females are sooty-brown with a duller bill, and juveniles resemble females but have pale spots on their upperparts. The very young may also exhibit a speckled breast.

The Common Blackbird thrives in a variety of habitats including woodlands with dense undergrowth, gardens, parks, and hedgerows. It shows a preference for deciduous trees and areas with thick vegetation.

This species is widespread across Europe, western Asia, and North Africa. It has also been introduced to Australia and New Zealand. Its range varies from resident populations in the milder regions to partially or fully migratory populations in areas with more severe winters.

5-5-2017 SEVILLE, ANDALUCIA - EURASIAN BLACKBIRD (FEMALE) (Turdus merula)

The Common Blackbird, Turdus merula, is a true thrush and a familiar sight in gardens and woodlands. The male is distinguished by its all-black plumage, bright yellow eye-ring, and orange-yellow bill, which darkens slightly during winter. Females and juveniles are more demure in their attire, sporting mainly dark brown feathers.

Adult males are entirely black with the exception of the yellow eye-ring and bill. Females are sooty-brown with a duller bill, and juveniles resemble females but have pale spots on their upperparts. The very young may also exhibit a speckled breast.

The Common Blackbird thrives in a variety of habitats including woodlands with dense undergrowth, gardens, parks, and hedgerows. It shows a preference for deciduous trees and areas with thick vegetation.

This species is widespread across Europe, western Asia, and North Africa. It has also been introduced to Australia and New Zealand. Its range varies from resident populations in the milder regions to partially or fully migratory populations in areas with more severe winters.

The Common Blackbird is territorial, especially during breeding season, with males displaying distinctive threat behaviors to ward off rivals. Outside of breeding season, they can be more sociable, often forming small flocks. The species is known for its adaptability to urban environments, where it may overwinter more readily than in rural settings.

The male's song is a melodious and fluted warble, often heard from elevated perches during the breeding season. The Common Blackbird also has a repertoire of calls including a sharp "seee" when agitated and a "pook-pook-pook" to signal ground predators.

Monogamous by nature, the Common Blackbird builds a neat, cup-shaped nest, often in dense shrubbery. The female lays three to five bluish-green eggs adorned with reddish-brown blotches. Both parents are involved in feeding the altricial chicks until they fledge.

The Common Blackbird can be confused with the Ring Ouzel or the Common Starling in Europe. In Asia, it has several similar-looking relatives, such as the Indian, Tibetan, and Chinese Blackbirds, which were once considered subspecies.

An omnivore, the Common Blackbird forages primarily on the ground for insects, earthworms, seeds, and berries. It is adept at pulling earthworms from the soil and foraging through leaf litter for other invertebrates.

The IUCN lists the Common Blackbird as Least Concern. It has a vast range and a large, stable population, though there have been localized declines due to changes in agricultural practices and urbanization.

5-5-2017 CARMONA, ANDALUCIA - EURASIAN COLLARED DOVE (Streptopelia decaocto)

The Eurasian collared dove, also known as the collared dove or Turkish dove (Streptopelia decaocto), is a bird of modest size, presenting a grey-buff to pinkish-grey plumage that is slightly darker above than below. It is recognized by its distinctive black half-collar edged with white on its nape, from which it derives its name. The species exhibits a blue-grey underwing patch and a tail that is grey-buff above, with dark grey and white-tipped feathers below. The sexes appear similar, with juveniles displaying a less developed collar and a brown iris.

To identify the Eurasian collared dove, look for its medium size, slimmer and longer-tailed body compared to a rock pigeon, and a shorter stature than the wood pigeon. The red legs, black bill, and red iris surrounded by a small area of bare skin, which may appear white or yellow, are key features. The bird's song, a three-part cooing "goo-GOO-goo," and a harsh screeching call are also distinctive identifiers.

This species is often found in proximity to human habitation, particularly where food is plentiful and trees are available for nesting. It is not uncommon to see these doves frequenting bird tables and farms.

Originally from warm temperate and subtropical Asia, the Eurasian collared dove has expanded its range dramatically, colonizing colder countries and becoming a permanent resident in many. Its range now includes Europe, North America, and the Caribbean.

5-5-2017 CARMONA, ANDALUCIA - LESSER KESTREL (Falco naumanni)

The lesser kestrel, Falco naumanni, is a diminutive raptor, measuring 27–33 cm in length with a wingspan of 63–72 cm. It is often mistaken for the common kestrel but can be distinguished by its relatively shorter wings and tail. The male is characterized by a grey head and tail, lacking the common kestrel's dark spotting and black malar stripe, and displaying grey patches in the wings.

To identify the lesser kestrel, look for the absence of dark talons, a feature unique to this species, with their talons being a distinctive whitish-horn color. However, this is only noticeable at very close range. The male's lack of dark spotting on the back and the absence of a black malar stripe are also key identification markers. The female and young birds are paler than their common kestrel counterparts, and their call—a harsh "chay-chay-chay"—is distinct from the common kestrel's "kee-kee-kee."

It is a small bird of prey, 27–33 cm (11–13 in) in length with a 63–72 cm (25–28 in) wingspan. It looks very much like the larger common kestrel but has proportionally shorter wings and tail. It shares a brown back and barred grey underparts with the larger species. The male has a grey head and tail like male common kestrels, but lacks the dark spotting on the back, the black malar stripe, and has grey patches in the wings.

The lesser kestrel favors open country, often nesting colonially on buildings, cliffs, or in tree holes.

This species has a breeding range that spans from the Mediterranean across to Afghanistan, Central Asia, China, and Mongolia. It is a summer migrant, wintering in Africa and Pakistan, and occasionally reaching as far as India and Iraq. It is rare north of its breeding range and is experiencing a decline in its European range.

The lesser kestrel is a more delicate bird than the common kestrel and competes with it to a limited extent within its sympatric breeding range. It is known to nest colonially and does not construct a nest structure, which is typical for falcons.

The lesser kestrel's call is a diagnostic harsh "chay-chay-chay," which serves as a reliable identifier when visual cues are inconclusive.

Lesser kestrels lay up to 3–6 eggs per clutch, with no nest structure built. They are known to nest colonially.

The diet of the lesser kestrel primarily consists of insects, but it also includes small birds, reptiles, and rodents, particularly mice. These prey items are often taken on the ground.

The lesser kestrel is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN. However, it faces threats from habitat destruction and the indiscriminate use of pesticides, which significantly impact this insectivorous bird.

The female and young birds are slightly paler than their relative, but are so similar that call and structure are better guides than plumage. The call is a diagnostic harsh chay-chay-chay, unlike the common kestrel's kee-kee-kee. Neither sex has dark talons as is usual in falcons; those of this species are a peculiar whitish-horn color. This, however, is only conspicuous when birds are seen at very close range, e.g. in captivity.

21-3-2017 HOTEL BOUGANVILLEA, COSTA RICA - TROPICAL KINGBIRD (Tyrannus melancholicus)

The tropical kingbird is one of the most widespread and conspicuous inhabitants of open forest, forest edge, scrub and agricultural land from the southwestern United States south to Argentina (Jahn, Stouffer, & Chesser, 2013). As a result, the bird is considered as being of Least Concern and their population is increasing, according to the IUCN. According to Partners in Flight, global estimates of tropical kingbird breeding population is around 200 million. They rate the species as 4 out of 20 on the continental concern scale, indicating that this species is of low conservation concern.

The tropical kingbird (Tyrannus melancholicus ) is a large tyrant flycatcher. This bird breeds from southern Arizona and the lower Rio Grande Valley of Texas in the United States through Central America, South America as far as south as central Argentina and eastern Peru, and on Trinidad and Tobago. Birds from the northernmost and southern breeding areas migrate to warmer parts of the range after breeding.

An adult tropical kingbird is 22 cm (8.7 in) long, weighs 39 g (1.4 oz) and has a wingspan range of 38–41 cm. The head is pale gray, with a darker eye mask, an orange crown stripe, and a heavy gray bill. The back is grayish-green, and the wing and forked tail are brown. The throat is pale gray, becoming olive on the breast, with the rest of the underparts being yellow. The sexes are similar, but young birds have pale buff edges on the wing coverts.

Tropical Kingbirds appear to be monogamous. In most parts of the species' range, they are permanent residents and remain together in pairs year-round.(Sibley 2014) The call is a high-pitched twittering trill, tree-e-e-e-e-e-e, with a more complex version sung by the male at dawn.

Their breeding habitat is semi-open areas with trees and shrubs, including gardens and roadsides. Tropical kingbirds like to observe their surroundings from a prominent open perch, usually high in a tree, undertaking long flights to acrobatically catch insects in mid-air (hawking), sometimes hovering to pick food off vegetation (gleaning). The insects preyed upon include beetles, bees, wasps, termites, butterflies, moths, dragonflies, and grasshoppers. They also eat some berries and fruit from such diverse species as tamanqueiro (Alchornea glandulosa ), common guava (Psidium guajava ), the Annonaceae, Cymbopetalum mayanum and gumbo-limbo (Bursera simaruba ); foraging for these even in disturbed habitat. As they keep mainly to the upper levels of trees, they find little profit in following mixed-species feeding flocks in the understory.

Aplomado falcons have been known to prey on adult tropical kingbirds, while eggs and young have been attacked by swallow-tailed kites and chestnut-mandibled toucans. These birds aggressively defend their territory against intruders, even much larger birds such as magnificent frigatebirds, toucans, caracaras or hawks. In a study in Parque Nacional de La Macarena of Colombia, parasitism by microfilariae and trypanosomas (presumably T. everetti ) was infrequently recorded in tropical kingbirds.

The male and female inspect potential sites together before selecting a site, typically a fork or crotch high in a tree (up to 20 m (66 ft) high) but sometimes just a few metres above water.(Sibley 2014) The female builds a bulky, sloppy-looking, shallow nest of vines, rootlets, twigs, weeds, and grasses; it is unlined or lined with hair. Nests average about 13.2 cm (5.2 in) across and 7.6 cm (3.0 in) tall, with interior cup about 7.6 cm (3.0 in) across and 4.1 cm (1.6 in) deep.

The female incubates the typical clutch of two to four eggs for approximately 16 days, and the nestlings fledge in another 18 or 19 days. The eggs are whitish or pale pink with variable amounts of dark blotching.

21-3-2017 HOTEL BOUGANVILLEA, COSTA RICA - WHITE WINGED DOVE (Zenaida asiatica)

The White-winged Dove (Zenaida asiatica) is a robust bird, notable for its size among doves, measuring approximately 29 cm from beak to tail with a wingspan ranging from 48 to 58 cm. Its plumage is primarily brownish-gray to gray, with a striking white edge on its wings, visible even when perched. The species is adorned with a blue eyering and possesses red eyes, though juveniles display brown eyes and a duller plumage.

To identify the White-winged Dove, look for the distinctive white wing patch, visible at rest and in flight, which sets it apart from similar species. Adults feature a blue, featherless skin around the eyes and a dark facial mark. Males may exhibit a more iridescent purple hue on the crown, neck, and nape, and a more pronounced ear spot, though these differences are subtle. The species has a short, rounded tail, contrasting with the long, pointed tail of the Mourning Dove.

The White-winged Dove is found in a variety of environments, including deserts, scrubs, urban areas, and agricultural landscapes. It has adapted well to human-altered habitats and can be seen in high concentrations near sources of water and food.

Native to the Southwestern United States, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean, the White-winged Dove's range has expanded due to human agricultural practices. It is now a year-round resident in places like Texas and has been observed as far north as Canada and Alaska.

This species can form migratory flocks of up to 4,000 individuals, though it is also known to overwinter in certain areas. It has a remarkable ability to fly considerable distances in search of water, but can also rely solely on the moisture found in saguaro cactus fruit.

The White-winged Dove's call is reminiscent of the phrase "who cooks for you," and it also produces a series of "pep pair pooa" calls. Males use a dedicated perch for cooing, primarily during the breeding season. Nonvocal sounds include a wing whistle upon take-off and heavy wing beats.

Breeding behavior includes males displaying with spread wings and fanned tails. The species constructs flimsy stick nests in trees and lays two cream-colored to white eggs. Nestlings can fledge as early as 2-3 months old, and families often remain together for life.

The Mourning Dove is similar in appearance but can be distinguished by its longer, pointed tail and lack of white wing edges. The White-tipped Dove and Eurasian Collared Dove also lack the white wing edging and have different coloration and markings.

Primarily granivorous, the White-winged Dove feeds on seeds, grains, and fruits. It has a particular affinity for the pollen, nectar, and fruit of the saguaro cactus. In agricultural settings, it can become a pest, descending on grain crops in large numbers.

Despite historical population declines due to habitat loss, hunting, and other human impacts, the White-winged Dove has shown remarkable adaptability to human environments. It is currently classified as a species of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

21-3-2017 HOTEL BOUGANVILLEA, COSTA RICA - VARIEGATED SQUIRREL (Sciurus variegatoides)

The variegated squirrel (Sciurus variegatoides ) is a tree squirrel in the genus Sciurus found in Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, southern Mexico, Nicaragua, and Panama. Fifteen subspecies are recognised. It is a common squirrel and the International Union for Conservation of Nature has rated it a "least-concern species". Variegated squirrels kept as pets in Germany have been implicated in the transmission of a bornavirus to humans from which three people have died.

Variegated squirrels are medium-sized tree squirrels. The are several subspecies recognised which differ in appearance. There is even often a considerable variation between the appearances of individuals in the same population. The dorsal colouration varies between dark brown to yellowish grey. The neck tends to be darker than other parts and there is often a paler patch behind the ears. The underparts are usually some shade of cinnamon. The tail is long and densely bushy; in Mexico it is black, sometimes with white tips to the hairs giving it a frosted appearance. In Nicaragua and Costa Rica, some individuals have pale underparts and tails.

Variegated squirrels are native to Central America. Their range extends from Mexico southwards through Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama. Habitats in which these squirrels occur include both dry deciduous forest and evergreen forest, secondary growth, and plantations.

Variegated squirrels are solitary and diurnal animals. They seldom descend to the ground and spend the night in a nest. Sometimes they build nests in a hole in a tree but more often construct them of leaves and build in the fork of a branch close to the trunk. These squirrels don't hibernate and spend most of their time in the trees. They are very agile and leap from one branch to another with ease. When threatened Variegated squirrels make chucking sounds and sometimes produce harsh chatter.

Little information is known about the mating habits in Variegated squirrels. The breeding season occurs in April-May. Females build nests high up in the trees where they give birth to 2-8 kittens. The gestation period lasts around 33-46 days. Young are born blind and naked. Fur starts growing after 2 weeks and in 30-32 days kittens open their eyes. Young stay in the nest within 6 weeks and become weaned at 10 weeks after birth. They are independent after 15 weeks and reach reproductive maturity between 12 and 15 weeks of age.

There are no major threats to Variegated squirrels at present.

According to IUCN, the Variegated squirrel is locally common and widespread throughout its range but no overall population estimate is available. Currently, this species is classified as Least Concern (LC) on the IUCN Red List and its numbers today are stable.

21-3-2017 HOTEL BOUGANVILLEA, COSTA RICA - INCA DOVE (Columbina inca)

The Inca dove, also known as the Mexican dove, is a small and slender New World dove with a length ranging from 16.5 to 23 cm and a weight between 30 to 58 grams. Its gray-brown plumage is adorned with a unique scaled pattern, and it possesses a long, square tail with white-edged feathers that may become more prominent during flight. Notably, the underwings exhibit a reddish hue, characteristic of ground doves.

When observing the Inca dove, look for its scaled feather pattern and the white edges on its square tail. In flight, the reddish underwings are a distinguishing feature. Additionally, listen for the soft rattling noise produced by its wings upon takeoff.

The Inca dove is a terrestrial bird that forms flocks in deserts, scrublands, cultivated areas, and even urban environments. It is well-adapted to living in close proximity to human settlements, where it often takes advantage of readily available water sources.

This species is found from Costa Rica in the south to the American Southwest in the north. Its range has been expanding in recent decades, although it is not native to the historical lands of the Inca Empire. In the United States, the Inca dove has been observed in Florida, although it is unclear if a self-sustaining population exists there.

Inca doves exhibit communal roosting behavior during winter, forming pyramid-shaped huddles that can include more than ten birds to conserve body heat. They are also known to form large flocks outside their territories, sometimes numbering up to 100 individuals.

The Inca dove's song is a forceful cooing that can be interpreted as "cowl-coo," "POO-pup," or "NO-hope." This vocalization is typically delivered from an elevated perch such as a tree, wire, or even a television aerial.

Nesting primarily occurs in trees and shrubs, with nests averaging about 5 centimeters in diameter. Both male and female doves contribute to nest building, using twigs, grass, weed stalks, and leaves. The nests are often reused and become more solidified with the excrement of the brood.

Inca doves primarily feed on grass seeds. Their presence in urban and agricultural areas suggests they may also consume other seeds and take advantage of water from irrigation systems.

The Inca dove is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List, indicating that it is not at immediate risk of population decline or extinction.

21-3-2017 HOTEL BOUGANVILLEA, COSTA RICA - HOFFMANN'S WOODPECKER (Melanerpes hoffmannii)

The Hoffmann's woodpecker, a striking avian species, is a medium-sized woodpecker measuring 18 to 21 cm in length and weighing between 62 to 84 grams. It exhibits sexual dimorphism in its head pattern. The male is adorned with a bright red crown and a yellow or orange nape, while the female sports a more subdued white crown and a pale yellow nape. Both sexes share a drab yellowish-gray face and throat, with a back and upper rump barred in black and white. The lower rump and uppertail coverts are a pristine white, and their flight feathers are black with white bars and spots. The tail is predominantly black with white accents. The underparts are a mix of dull grayish to yellowish white, with a central belly of bright yellow and flanks of dull yellowish white barred with black. Their bill is a stark black, eyes a hazel hue, and legs range from bluish gray to gray.

When identifying Hoffmann's woodpecker, look for the distinctive head patterns that differ between males and females. The male's bright red crown and yellow or orange nape contrast with the female's white crown and pale yellow nape. The barred pattern on the back and the unbarred white lower rump are also key features. The bird's size and the black and white barring on the wings during flight are additional identification markers.

This woodpecker favors dry and deciduous forests, as well as more open landscapes such as shade coffee plantations, urban parks, and residential gardens.

Hoffmann's woodpecker is native to Central America, with its range extending from southwestern Honduras through Nicaragua on the Pacific slope to central Costa Rica. There is also a single recorded sighting in El Salvador.

A year-round resident, Hoffmann's woodpecker is known to forage from the forest understory to the canopy and has been observed feeding on the ground. It is a territorial bird, especially during the breeding season, when it aggressively defends its nesting site.

The most common vocalization is a "churrr" sound made by both sexes. Other calls include a "querulous, grating, woick-a woick-a woick-a" or "wicka wicka wicka." The species is also known to drum on dead wood and occasionally on metal structures.

The breeding season spans from January to July, with the possibility of two broods being raised. Nest cavities are excavated by both sexes in soft dead wood, living palms, or fence posts, usually 1 to 6 meters above ground. The clutch typically consists of two or three eggs, with both parents sharing incubation duties and provisioning for the nestlings. The exact incubation period and time to fledging remain unknown.

Hoffmann's woodpecker's diet primarily consists of arthropods, which it extracts from decaying wood. It also consumes a variety of fruits and nectar from large flowers, and occasionally preys on the eggs of other birds.

The IUCN has classified Hoffmann's woodpecker as Least Concern. With an estimated population of at least 50,000 mature individuals, the species is believed to be increasing in number. Although deforestation has expanded its distribution, the elimination of dead trees poses a threat by reducing available nesting substrates.

21-3-2017 HOTEL BOUGANVILLEA, COSTA RICA - GREAT TAILED GRACKLE (Quiscalus mexicanus)

The great-tailed grackle or Mexican grackle (Quiscalus mexicanus ) is a medium-sized, highly social passerine bird native to North and South America. A member of the family Icteridae, it is one of 10 extant species of grackle and is closely related to the boat-tailed grackle and the extinct slender-billed grackle. In the southern United States, it is sometimes simply referred to as "blackbird" or (erroneously) "crow" due to its glossy black plumage, and similarly it is often called cuervo ("raven") in some parts of Mexico, although it is not a member of the crow genus Corvus, nor even of the family Corvidae.

The Great-tailed grackle is a highly social bird from North and South America. Males are iridescent black with a purple-blue sheen on the feathers of the head and upper body, while females are brown with darker wings and tails. Adults of both sexes have bright yellow eyes, while juveniles of both sexes have brown eyes and brown plumage like females (except for streaks on the breast). Great-tailed grackles, particularly adult males, have a keel-shaped tail that they can fold vertically by aligning the two halves.

Great-tailed grackles occur from northwestern Venezuela and western Colombia and Ecuador in the south to Minnesota in the north, to Oregon, Idaho, and California in the west, to Florida in the east, with vagrants occurring as far north as southern Canada. They don’t migrate and are typically found in clear areas such as pastures, wetlands, mangroves, and chaparral. The grackles' range has also expanded with agricultural and urban settings.

Great-tailed grackles are active during the day and roost communally in trees or the reeds of wetlands at night. Their days are usually spent feeding in small groups in fields or urban parks. When Great-tailed grackles return to their roosting sites at dusk, they communicate with each other before taking preferred position. Great-tailed grackles have an unusually large repertoire of vocalizations that are used year-round. The sounds range from "sweet, tinkling notes" to a "rusty gate hinge". Males use a wider variety of vocalization types, while females use mostly in "chatter", however, it is suggested that they may perform the "territorial song".

Great-tailed grackles are omnivores and are noted for their diverse foraging habits. They extract larvae and insects from grassy areas and eat lizards, nestlings, and eggs. They also eat fruits (e.g., bananas, berries) and grains. They turn over objects to search for food underneath, including crustaceans, and worms, they hunt tadpoles and fish by wading into shallow water, catch fish by flying close to the water's surface, and are even reported to dive a few inches into the water to retrieve a fish. Great-tailed grackles also kill Barn swallows while flying.

21-3-2017 HOTEL BOUGANVILLEA, COSTA RICA - CLAY COLOURED THRUSH (Turdus grayi)

The clay-colored thrush (Turdus grayi ) is a common Middle American bird of the thrush family (Turdidae). It is the national bird of Costa Rica, where it is well known as the yigüirro (Spanish: ). Other common names include clay-colored robin.

It ranges from South Texas (where it is rapidly expanding its range) to northern Colombia. West and north of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, it is limited to the Atlantic slope, except for a population around Oaxaca City, Mexico that probably originates from escaped cage birds.

The Clay-colored robin is a common Middle American bird of the thrush family. It is brownish in color, somewhat lighter below than above, lightest on the flanks. Birds from humid regions are darker than those from dry regions. The throat is faintly streaked. Immature birds have faint mottling on the back and underparts. The bill is greenish-yellow with a dark base, the legs are pinkish or flesh-colored, and the irises are reddish.

Clay-colored robins range from South Texas to northern Colombia; west and north of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec (Mexico). They inhabit tropical dry forests, rainforests and can often be found in yards and gardens.

Clay-colored robins are diurnal birds that are permanently resident in warm climates of their range. They usually forage on the ground or near it, singly or in pairs, but may also gather in flocks to feed high in fruiting trees. Clay-colored robins move on the ground by hopping, and upon landing, they often flick their tails back and forth. Their song, rather low-pitched and with a slow steady tempo, consists of many slurred musical phrases that are often repeated irregularly. The flight call is like the American robin's but harsher.

Little is known about the mating system and reproductive behavior in Clay-color robins. However, it is suggested that they may exhibit monogamous behavior. This means that one male will form a pair bond only with one female. During the breeding season, males attract females with beautiful songs. Pairs build a heavy cup nest of grass, moss, feathers, leaves, and mud on firm support above the ground, which may include human constructions such as windowsills. The female lays 2 to 4 pale blue eggs with red-brown and gray markings between March and July and may produce two broods per season. Incubation usually lasts for 12 to 14 days and is done by the female.

4-5-2017 CORDOBA, ANDALUCIA - MALLARD (FEMALE) (Anas platyrhynchos)

Male Mallards have a dark, iridescent-green head and bright yellow bill. The gray body is sandwiched between a brown breast and black rear. Females and juveniles are mottled brown with orange-and-brown bills. Both sexes have a white-bordered, blue “speculum” patch in the wing.

Unlike larger waterfowl such as the Tundra Swan, which mate for life, Mallard pairs only stay together for a season. Courtship and pair formation begin each fall and winter. Groups of males display for a hen with a variety of behaviors, including head and tail shaking, head-bobbing, dipping, and whistling.

The female Mallard has between five and 14 light green eggs that she incubates for 30 days.

The ducklings are lead to water as soon as their soft, downy feathers are dry. ...

Most Mallard ducks live for one or two years, but some can live as long as 16 years!

Mallards swim with their tail held above the water.

4-5-2017 CORDOBA, ANDALUCIA - HOUSE SPARROW (FEMALE) (Passer domesticus)

The house sparrow (Passer domesticus) is a bird of the sparrow family Passeridae, found in most parts of the world. It is a small bird that has a typical length of 16 cm (6.3 in) and a mass of 24–39.5 g (0.85–1.39 oz). Females and young birds are coloured pale brown and grey, and males have brighter black, white, and brown markings. One of about 25 species in the genus Passer, the house sparrow is native to most of Europe, the Mediterranean Basin, and a large part of Asia. Its intentional or accidental introductions to many regions, including parts of Australasia, Africa, and the Americas, make it the most widely distributed wild bird.

The house sparrow is strongly associated with human habitation, and can live in urban or rural settings. Though found in widely varied habitats and climates, it typically avoids extensive woodlands, grasslands, polar regions, and hot, dry deserts far away from human development. For sustenance, the house sparrow routinely feeds at home and public bird feeding stations, but naturally feeds on the seeds of grains, flowering plants and weeds. However, it is an opportunistic, omnivorous eater, and commonly catches insects, their larvae, caterpillars, invertebrates and many other natural foods.

Because of its numbers, ubiquity, and association with human settlements, the house sparrow is culturally prominent. It is extensively, and usually unsuccessfully, persecuted as an agricultural pest. It has also often been kept as a pet, as well as being a food item and a symbol of lust, sexual potency, commonness, and vulgarity. Though it is widespread and abundant, its numbers have declined in some areas. The animal's conservation status is listed as least concern on the IUCN Red List. 

You can find House Sparrows most places where there are houses (or other buildings), and few places where there aren’t. Along with two other introduced species, the European Starling and the Rock Pigeon, these are some of our most common birds. Their constant presence outside our doors makes them easy to overlook, and their tendency to displace native birds from nest boxes causes some people to resent them. But House Sparrows, with their capacity to live so intimately with us, are just beneficiaries of our own success.

House Sparrows in flocks have a pecking order much the way chickens in a farmyard do. You can begin to decipher the standings by paying attention to the black throats of the males. Males with larger patches of black tend to be older and dominant over males with less black. By wearing this information on their feathers, sparrows can avoid some fights and thereby save energy.