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Friday, 15 September 2017

13-9-2017 BIOPARC, VALENCIA - MARABOU STORK (Leptoptilos crumenifer)


The Marabou Stork, Leptoptilos crumenifer, is a formidable presence in the avian world, with its massive stature and striking appearance. It stands tall at approximately 152 centimeters and can weigh up to 9 kilograms. Its wingspan is a sight to behold, stretching up to 3.7 meters, rivaling even the Andean condor in breadth. The marabou is adorned with a black back, contrasting white underparts, and a distinctive bare head and neck. Its bill is robust, and it sports a pink gular sac at its throat, a neck ruff, and white legs. Both sexes appear similar, though the female is typically smaller, and juveniles are browner with a less pronounced bill.


To identify the Marabou Stork, look for its large size, bare head, and neck, along with its black back and white underparts. The bird's enormous bill and pink throat sac are also key characteristics. When in flight, note that unlike most storks, the Marabou Stork flies with its neck retracted, resembling a heron.

The Marabou Stork is native to sub-Saharan Africa, where it can be found in a variety of habitats, both wet and arid. It often resides near human habitation, particularly around landfill sites.


This species is widespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal to Ethiopia, and down to South Africa. It is a common sight in both urban and less populated areas, depending on the region.

The Marabou Stork is known for its gregarious nature, often seen in groups. It is a colonial breeder, particularly during the dry season when food is more abundant. The bird has a reputation for being ill-tempered and is not particularly vocal, though it engages in bill-rattling courtship displays. The throat sac plays a role in producing sounds during this time.


The Marabou Stork is relatively quiet compared to other birds, but it does engage in bill-rattling as part of its courtship ritual.

Breeding occurs in colonies during the dry season. The female lays two to three eggs in a stick nest, with the eggs hatching after 30 days. Young Marabou Storks reach sexual maturity at 4 years, and the species can live up to 43 years in captivity and 25 years in the wild.


The Marabou Stork is an opportunistic feeder, primarily scavenging on carrion, scraps, and faeces. It is known to consume a wide range of animal matter, including fish, frogs, insects, small mammals, and reptiles. During the breeding season, it focuses on small, live prey to feed its nestlings. The bird often follows vultures to feed on carcasses and may become dependent on human garbage, consuming almost anything it can swallow.

The Marabou Stork is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating that it is not at immediate risk of population decline.

The Marabou Stork can be confused with other large storks, such as the adjutants (Leptoptilos spp.), but can be distinguished by its unique bare head, neck, and pink throat sac.

Adult Marabou Storks face few natural predators and enjoy a high annual survival rate. However, they can fall prey to ambush by lions. They are also susceptible to various endoparasites, which can impact their health and longevity.

13-9-2017 BIOPARC, VALENCIA - RUPPELL'S VULTURE (Gyps rueppelli)


Rüppell's vulture (Gyps rueppelli) is a large bird and its name comes from the 19th-century German zoologist and explorer Eduard Rüppell. It is native to the Sahel region and East Africa and its current population is decreasing due to loss of habitat, incidental poisoning, and other factors. Rüppell's vulture is considered to be the highest-flying bird, with confirmed evidence of a flight at an altitude of 11,300 m (37,000 ft) above sea level.



Both sexes of this species look alike: mottled brown or black overall with a whitish-brown underbelly and thin, dirty-white fluff covering the head and neck. The base of the neck has a white collar, the eye is yellow or amber, and the crop patch is deep brown. The head does not have feathers. This is an adaptation that occurred because of the Rüppell vulture's tendency to stick its head inside of its prey when eating. Without the adaptation, feeding would become extremely messy.


Rüppell's vultures are diurnal and very social birds, roosting, nesting, and feeding in large flocks. Like most vultures, they are silent, except when at their nesting ground or foraging around a carcass. They spend much of their time flying, gliding with wings held level, or using slow, powerful wing beats. They often fly at great altitudes, using strong winds or thermals for more efficient soaring. These vultures locate food by sight only, and once they see a carcass they swoop down, land a little way off, and then bound forward with wings spread and their long neck outstretched. Fights with other vultures are common as the birds struggle to get their meal, their necks often turning deep red from aggression as they hiss, grunt, and chatter at their opponent.


The Rüppell’s vulture inhabits the Sahel region in central Africa (Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Sudan, Chad, and others), living in sub-Saharan grassland and woodland. It often roots and breeds around cliffs and gorges.


Rüppell’s vultures are monogamous and form strong lifelong pair bonds. In vulture courtship, a pair will circle close together near cliffs. Pairs perch next to each other for a long time and together form colonies of as many as 1,000 breeding pairs. They build their large nests out of sticks and line them with grass and leaves. Females often steal sticks from other nests for the males to arrange. Depending upon the nesting site’s location, it may be used year on year or just once. Both parents take part in incubation, brooding, and feeding the chicks. A single egg is laid each year. Incubation is for 55 days. When the chick hatches, both its parents will feed it and look after it until it is about 150 days old when it fledges. After fledging a chick remains dependent on its parents, reaching independence when the next breeding season comes. Until then, they learn how to seek and compete for food.


This formerly abundant species has suffered a rapid decline over much of its range, especially in West Africa, and is now mostly confined to protected areas. Despite being less studied than other vultures, it is known that these declines are due to the impact of agriculture on their habitat, persecution, and large-scale incidental poisoning. In West Africa, these birds have been greatly used in black magic practices.


The IUCN Red List reports the Rüppell’s vulture total population size as 22,000 mature individuals, with perhaps about 30,000 individuals at the beginning of the 1990s. Specific populations have been estimated in these areas: 3,000 pairs in Tanzania; 2,000 pairs in Kenya; 2,000 pairs in Ethiopia; 2,000 pairs in Sudan and 2,000 pairs in West Africa. Overall, currently, Rüppell’s vultures are classified as Critically Endangered (CR) and their numbers today are decreasing.


The Ruppell's vulture is the highest-flying bird. Reportedly, a jet flying over the Ivory Coast at an altitude of 35,433 feet (10,800 meters) hit one! The Ruppell's vulture gets on the wing about two hours after sunrise and spends its entire day aloft.

Very social birds. Usually nest in loose colonies of up to 100 pairs, but have been seen in colonies up to 1,000 pairs. Colonies are found in open, arid areas. Prefers open areas, since they hunt for carcasses using sight, not smell.

Huge vulture, slightly smaller than Eurasian Griffon. Adults have dark-bodied with pale feather tips on body and shoulders, giving them a scaled appearance; also note pale bill and eye. Juveniles are dark with a characteristic pale bar on the leading edge of the underwings and have a black bill and dark eyes. Nests on cliffs and is generally silent except when squabbling at carcasses. Often encountered foraging over grasslands and soaring along cliffs and ridgelines. 

Thursday, 14 September 2017

13-9-2017 BIOPARC, VALENCIA - SOUTHERN GROUND HORNBILL (Bucorvus leadbeateri)


The Southern Ground Hornbill (Bucorvus leadbeateri), formerly known as Bucorvus cafer, is a remarkable bird, the largest in the hornbill order and found exclusively within Africa. This majestic creature, with a length ranging from 90 to 129 cm and a wingspan of 1.2 to 1.8 meters, is a sight to behold. The males, larger than the females, can weigh between 3.5 to 6.2 kilograms, while females range from 2.2 to 4.6 kilograms. They are predominantly black with striking red patches of bare skin on the face and throat, which serve to keep dust from their eyes while foraging. In flight, the white tips of their wings are distinctly visible. The beak is robust, black, and slightly curved, with a casque more pronounced in males. Females are identified by their violet-blue throat skin, while juveniles have a paler, greyish patch instead of the vibrant red.


To identify the Southern Ground Hornbill, look for its large size, black plumage, and the vivid red or violet-blue skin on the throat. The male's throat is a pure red, while the female's is deep violet-blue. Juveniles can be recognized by their duller grey throat patch. In flight, the white primary feathers are a key distinguishing feature.

The Southern Ground Hornbill is found in woodlands and savannas, requiring a habitat with large trees for nesting and short grass for foraging.


This species ranges from Kenya to South Africa, with its presence also noted in northern Namibia and Angola to southern Zimbabwe and Burundi.

Living in groups of 5 to 10, these birds are apex predators and play a crucial ecological role. They forage on the ground, hunting a variety of prey from insects to small mammals. They are known for their loud, chorus-like calls that can be heard over great distances, serving as a means of maintaining their territory.

The Southern Ground Hornbill's calls are a distinctive aspect of their behavior, used for communication and territorial purposes. These calls can be heard up to 3 kilometers away.

Breeding pairs are assisted by at least two other birds, and experience as helpers is essential for successful rearing of young. They reach sexual maturity around 4-6 years of age and start breeding at about 10 years. Nesting typically occurs in high tree cavities or cliff face rock holes. They lay one to three eggs, but only one chick is usually reared to fledging.


The Abyssinian Ground Hornbill (B. abyssinicus) is similar but can be distinguished by its size and range.

Southern Ground Hornbills are carnivorous, feeding on reptiles, frogs, snails, insects, and mammals up to the size of hares. They forage on the ground and rarely drink water.

The IUCN lists the Southern Ground Hornbill as Vulnerable globally, with an Endangered status in South Africa, Lesotho, Namibia, and Eswatini. Their numbers are declining due to habitat destruction, persecution, and other factors. Conservation efforts include habitat preservation and captive breeding programs.

13-9-2017 BIOPARC, VALENCIA - CAPE PORCUPINE (Hystrix africaeaustralis)


The Cape porcupine (Hystrix africaeaustralis ) or South African porcupine, is a species of Old World porcupine native to central and southern Africa.

The Cape porcupine is a large terrestrial rodent native to central and southern Africa. It is the largest rodent in Africa and also the world's largest porcupine. It is a heavily built animal, with a stocky body, short limbs, and an inconspicuous tail. The body is covered in long spines up to 50 cm (20 in) in length, interspersed with thicker, sharply pointed, defense quills up to 30 cm (12 in) long, and with bristly, blackish, or brownish fur. The spines on the tail are hollow and used to make a rattling sound to scare away predators. An erectile crest of long, bristly hairs runs from the top of the porcupine's head down to its shoulders. The spines and quills cover the back and flanks of the animal and continuing onto the tail. The quills have multiple bands of black and white along their length, and grow from regularly spaced grooves along the animal's body; each groove holding five to eight quills. The remainder of the animal, including the undersides, is covered with dark hair.


Cape porcupines are found across the whole of southern and central Africa, to southern Kenya, Uganda, and Congo at the northern edge of their range. They live in a wide range of habitats, preferring rocky crevices and caves for shelter. They are only marginally present in dense forests and the driest of deserts and are not found in swampland.

Cape porcupines are nocturnal animals, typically living as mated pairs of adults, caring for their young together. Each pair may inhabit up to 6 burrows, jointly defending their shared territory, although they typically forage singly. Both sexes scent mark their territory, although males do so more frequently, and may play a more active role in its defense. Cape porcupines are shy creatures and when attacked, their main defense mechanism is to freeze. However, if cornered, they turn vicious and charge to stab their attacker with their quills. Otherwise, porcupines may retreat into their burrow, exposing only their quills and making it hard to dislodge.


Cape porcupines are herbivores and eat mostly plant material: fruits, roots, tubers, bulbs, and bark. They may sometimes gnaw on carrion and bones.

Cape porcupines are monogamous animals that form pairs. They mate throughout the year, although births are usually most common during the rainy season, between August and March. Females typically give birth only once each year. Gestation lasts around 94 days and results in the birth of a litter of 1-3 young. Newborn pups weigh 300 to 440 grams (11 to 16 oz); they are born well-developed, with their eyes open, and initially have soft quills. Although they are born with their incisor teeth fully erupted, the remaining teeth begin to appear at 14 days. The pups are weaned at around 100 days of age, and grow rapidly for the first 20 weeks, reaching the full adult size, and reproductive maturity, at the end of their first year.

13-9-2017 BIOPARC, VALENCIA - VERREAUX'S EAGLE OWL (Bubo lacteus)


The Verreaux's eagle-owl (Ketupa lactea), also known as the milky eagle owl or giant eagle owl, is a formidable presence in the avian world. As the largest owl found in Africa and the most massive in the tropics, it commands attention with its impressive stature. This species can reach up to 66 cm (26 in) in total length, with females typically out-sizing males. Its plumage is primarily a soft grey, with fine brownish vermiculations on the underside and more solid light brown with white spots on the shoulder. The facial disc is paler, often whitish, with stark black borders. However, its most distinctive feature is the bright pink eyelids, unique among owl species.

When observing Verreaux's eagle-owl, look for its large size, grey plumage, and the striking pink eyelids that are visible when the bird is at rest. The ear tufts are relatively small and may not be noticeable at a distance. The eyes are a deep brown, contrasting with the paler facial disc. In flight, its large wingspan is evident, which can reach nearly 164 cm (5 ft 5 in) in females.


Verreaux's eagle-owl favors dry, wooded savanna environments, often bordering semi-arid regions. It can also be found in riverine forests adjacent to savannas and in small, semi-open woodlands. This species is adaptable to various elevations, from sea level to mountainous areas up to 3,000 m (9,800 ft), though it is generally scarce in rocky terrains.

This eagle-owl is widespread across sub-Saharan Africa, with the highest densities in eastern and southern Africa. It is less common in the dense rainforests of west and central Africa, with a sporadic presence in transitional zones between the Sahara and rainforests.

Nocturnal by nature, Verreaux's eagle-owls spend their days roosting in trees, often on large horizontal branches. They are known to roost lightly, awakening quickly to defend themselves if necessary. Family groups, including offspring from previous years, may roost and preen together. Each pair defends a large territory, which can be up to 7,000 ha (17,000 acres) in size.


The call of the Verreaux's eagle-owl is the deepest among owls, with the male's song resembling a series of deep "gwok" sounds. The female's call is similar but higher-pitched. Their vocalizations can carry for considerable distances, facilitating communication between mates and territorial defense.

Verreaux's eagle-owls are monogamous and likely mate for life. They typically use large stick nests built by other birds, often on top of hamerkop nests or those constructed by large raptors. The female usually lays two white eggs, with the older chick often outcompeting the younger for food. Fledglings leave the nest before they can fly competently and remain dependent on their parents for several months.

The Shelley's eagle-owl (Ketupa shelleyi) is similar in size but has a darker, sooty coloration and prefers deep forests. The Cape eagle-owl (Bubo capensis) is smaller and has different plumage and eye color.

Verreaux's eagle-owl is an opportunistic predator with a diet that includes mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects. It is known to be the only routine predator of hedgehogs in Africa, skillfully removing their prickly skins before consumption.

The IUCN lists Verreaux's eagle-owl as Least Concern due to its wide range and adaptability to habitat alterations. However, it occurs at low densities, and regional declines have been reported due to habitat destruction, persecution, and the effects of pesticides.

13-9-2017 BIOPARC, VALENCIA - GOLDEN BREASTED STARLING (Lamprotornis regius)


The golden-breasted starling (Lamprotornis regius ), also known as royal starling, is a medium-sized passerine in the starling family.

Lamprotornis regius can reach a body length of about 35 cm (14 in). The adult has a metallic green head and upper back, bright golden yellow breast and belly, dark bill and legs, white iris and metallic violet blue on wings, back, neck and its long tail feathers. Both sexes are similar. The young are duller than the adult.

The golden-breasted starling has a very large range. It is distributed in Northeastern Africa, from Somalia, Ethiopia, Kenya and northern Tanzania. These birds inhabit the grassland, savannah, the thickets of acacias, dry-thorn forests and shrubland.


The golden-breasted starling is a social animal, living in groups of three to twelve individuals. Adults can be found from January to June and from August to November, with a peak in January.

The golden-breasted starling molts once a year, after the breeding season. These birds are monogamous. The female usually lays between three and five pale green eggs with red speckles. It nests in tree holes, usually in tree holes that woodpeckers have left. The nest is made from leaves, roots and other vegetation. Entire family groups cooperate in raising young by gathering food and nesting materials.

Widespread throughout its habitat range, the population trend of the golden-breasted starling appears to be stable. The species is evaluated as being of least concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.


A slim, gorgeous long-tailed starling of dry country. Iridescent green, purple, and blue decorate the upperparts, and the belly is yellow. There is a dark mask and a pale eye. The flight is weak, with the long, thin tail flapping behind. Found in dry woodland, thorn savanna, and thorn scrub, usually in small flocks. Generally shy, but can become tame in some lodges and picnic areas.

Golden-breasted starlings are found throughout eastern Africa, including Somalia, Ethiopia, Kenya and Tanzania.
They prefer arid or semi-arid climates, and are usually found in savannas and shrublands. Although their population trend is stable, they are facing a threat from overcollection for the pet trade.

13-9-2017 BIOPARC, VALENCIA - ABDIM'S STORK (Ciconia abdimii)


The Abdim's stork, known scientifically as Ciconia abdimii and colloquially as the white-bellied stork, is a modestly sized member of the stork family, Ciconiidae. It is distinguished by its black plumage, contrasted with white underparts, and notable for being the smallest stork species. The legs are grey, with red knees and feet, and the bill is also grey. During the breeding season, one can observe red skin in front of the eye and blue skin near the bill, adding a splash of color to this otherwise monochromatic bird. An adult typically measures 73 cm in length and tips the scales at just over 1 kg.

When identifying the Abdim's stork, look for its black and white coloration, red knees, and the distinctive facial skin color changes during the breeding season. Its small size compared to other storks is also a key characteristic.


This stork favors open habitats across Sub-Saharan Africa, avoiding forests, dense woodlands, and deserts. It is also present in Yemen.

The Abdim's stork is a widespread resident from the Sahel down to South Africa. It breeds in the northern half of its range during the wet season and migrates to eastern and southern Africa for the rest of the year. There have been instances of this species in Florida, U.S., although these are likely due to escapes or deliberate releases, with no evidence of a breeding population.

Abdim's storks are colonial breeders, nesting in trees, on cliffs, or rooftops. They are migratory, moving seasonally between breeding and non-breeding areas.


The diet of the Abdim's stork is primarily insectivorous, with a preference for locusts, caterpillars, and other large insects. However, it is also known to consume small reptiles, amphibians, mice, crabs, and eggs.

During the breeding season, the female lays two to three eggs. The male is slightly larger than the female, which is a common trait among storks.

The Abdim's stork is currently evaluated as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. It is the focus of several breeding programs, notably in the United States and Europe, to ensure its continued survival in zoos and aviaries.

13-9-2017 BIOPARC, VALENCIA - SPECKLED PIGEON (Columba guinea)


The Speckled Pigeon, known scientifically as Columba guinea, is a robust avian resident of Africa, south of the Sahara. This species is often seen in open habitats and is recognized by its rufous back and wings, which are adorned with a multitude of white speckles. The pigeon's head is a subtle grey, accented with striking red patches encircling the eyes, while the neck displays a brownish hue interlaced with white streaks. The legs of this bird are a vivid red, adding a dash of color to its otherwise muted blue-grey plumage. Both sexes appear similar, with the immature birds presenting a browner plumage and lacking the distinctive red eye patches.

When identifying the Speckled Pigeon, look for its large size, measuring at 41 cm in length. The white speckles on the rufous wings are a key feature, along with the red eye patches in adults. The bird's flight is characterized by quick, regular beats interspersed with occasional sharp flicks of the wings, typical of pigeons.


This pigeon favors open habitats and is commonly found in proximity to human settlements and cultivated lands.

The Speckled Pigeon boasts a widespread presence across much of Africa, though its distribution does exhibit significant gaps. It is a resident breeder in the region, ensuring its regular sighting throughout the year.

The Speckled Pigeon is a sociable bird, often gathering in large flocks where food sources such as grain or groundnuts are abundant. It has adapted well to human environments, frequently seen around habitation and cultivation.

The vocalization of the Speckled Pigeon is a resonant and unmistakable "doo-doo-doo," which can be heard echoing across its habitat.


Breeding pairs construct large stick nests on protected rocky outcrops, and within urban settings, they may nest atop covered pergola pillars or under deep eaves on flat roofs. The pigeon lays a clutch of two white eggs.

The diet of the Speckled Pigeon is primarily vegetable matter. It is known to feed in large numbers in areas where grains and groundnuts are readily available.

The Speckled Pigeon is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating that it does not face any significant threats to its population at this time.

13-9-2017 BIOPARC, VALENCIA - EURASIAN BLACKBIRD (FEMALE) (Turdus merula)


The Common blackbird (Turdus merula) is a species of true thrush. It is also called the Eurasian blackbird (especially in North America, to distinguish it from the unrelated New World blackbirds), or simply the blackbird where this does not lead to confusion with a similar-looking local species. This common and conspicuous species has given rise to a number of literary and cultural references, frequently related to its song.

The adult male has glossy black plumage, blackish-brown legs, a yellow eye ring, and an orange-yellow bill. The bill darkens somewhat in winter. The adult female is sooty-brown with a dull yellowish-brownish bill, a brownish-white throat, and some weak mottling on the breast. The juvenile is similar to the female but has pale spots on the upperparts, and the very young juvenile also has a speckled breast. Young birds vary in the shade of brown, with darker birds presumably males. The first-year male resembles the adult male but has a dark bill and weaker eye ring, and its folded wing is brown, rather than black like the body plumage.
Common blackbirds breed in Europe, North Africa, India, and southern China. Populations in the north and east migrate to winter in Egypt and the west and southeast of Asia. Depending on latitude, Common blackbirds may be resident, partially migratory, or fully migratory. These birds live in very varied habitats, including mountainous regions and big city centers, where they inhabit open forests and forest edges, woodlands, cultivated areas, gardens, and parks if the cover is dense enough for hiding.

Tuesday, 12 September 2017

9-9-2017 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - COMMON DARTER DRAGONFLY (FEMALE) (Sympetrum striolatum)



The common darter (Sympetrum striolatum) is a dragonfly of the family Libellulidae native to Eurasia. It is one of the most common dragonflies in Europe, occurring in a wide variety of water bodies, though with a preference for breeding in still water such as ponds and lakes. In the south of its range adults are on the wing all year round.

Eggs are not laid, but broadcast from the air: the male holds the female in tandem and swings her down and forward over water. At the furthest point of the arc the female releases some of her eggs to fall on the water.


Sympetrum species are not easy to tell apart and in most areas more than one Sympetrum species will occur. Females and teneral individuals have light yellow thorax and abdomen. Males turn red as they mature. Females darken with age, becoming a dark chocolate brown, and sometimes develop a blue colouration to the bottom of the abdomen. The wings also develop a brown tinge with age. In all cases the legs have a cream or yellow stripe on a black background - this is a diagnostic feature of this species. The pterostigma of the females can be red, blue, pale blue or brown.

Adults can be seen on the wing all year round in southern Europe but in northern regions they occur from June to November.


This small dragonfly is seen in a wide variety of habitats, including lakes, ponds, canals and slow-flowing rivers. They are ambush predators, waiting on a prominent perch - such as a leaf or the top of a gate, until prey fly past, whereupon they will fly after it. They are territorial on breeding waters, often attempting to chase much bigger dragonflies away such as southern hawkers. This habit of repeatedly returning to a sunny spot allows you to easily predict where they are going to land, which is why it is one of the easiest dragonflies to photograph.

In suitable hunting areas away from water, however, they are not territorial: large numbers may assemble - groups of several hundred in a single field have been recorded - and lines of insects can be seen along the top of field gates.

Monday, 11 September 2017

11-9-2017 VILLALONGA RESERVOIR, VALENCIA - LITTLE EGRET (Egretta garzetta)


The Little Egret, Egretta garzetta, is a dainty heron adorned in pure white plumage. It is characterized by a slender black beak, long black legs, and, notably in the western race, yellow feet. This elegant bird is a sight to behold with its graceful neck and poised stance.

Adult Little Egrets measure between 55–65 cm in length with a wingspan of 88–106 cm, and weigh 350–550 g. Their plumage is predominantly white, though some may exhibit bluish-grey coloration. Breeding adults boast ornate nape plumes reaching about 150 mm, along with distinctive feathers on the breast and elongated scapulars. The bill and lores are black, with greenish-grey skin at the base of the lower mandible and around the eye, which houses a yellow iris. Legs are black with contrasting yellow feet, though juveniles may have greenish-black legs and duller feet. The subspecies E. g. nigripes is distinguished by yellow skin between the bill and eye, and blackish feet.


The Little Egret frequents a variety of wetland habitats, from the shores of lakes and rivers to marshes and coastal regions. It is often found in open environments, such as mangroves, swamps, mudflats, and sandy beaches, as well as human-altered landscapes like rice fields.

The species has a broad breeding distribution across warm temperate to tropical regions of Asia, Africa, Australia, and Europe. Northern populations are migratory, wintering in Africa and southern Asia, while others remain as permanent residents in warmer areas.


Little Egrets are social yet territorial when feeding. They exhibit a range of foraging behaviors, from active chasing to patient ambush. Their movements are often in response to the presence of other animals, which may stir up prey.

The Little Egret's vocalizations include croaking and bubbling sounds at breeding colonies and a harsh alarm call when disturbed. These calls are similar to those of the Black-crowned Night Heron and the Cattle Egret.

Breeding colonies are often mixed with other water birds. Nests are platforms of sticks located in trees, shrubs, or reed beds. Clutches typically consist of three to five bluish-green eggs, incubated by both parents for about three weeks. The young fledge at approximately six weeks old.

The Little Egret can be confused with other white egrets, particularly the Snowy Egret, which shares some of its New World range. However, the Little Egret is larger and has more varied foraging strategies.


The diet is diverse, including fish, amphibians, small reptiles, mammals, birds, crustaceans, molluscs, insects, spiders, and worms. The Little Egret employs various hunting techniques, both in water and on land, to capture its prey.

The Little Egret is classified as "Least Concern" by the IUCN. Conservation measures in the 20th century have allowed populations to recover in Europe, and the species has been expanding its range. It is now successfully colonizing new areas, including the New World.

11-9-2017 VILLALONGA RESERVOIR, VALENCIA - GREY HERON (Ardea cinerea)


The Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea) is a statuesque wading bird belonging to the family Ardeidae. It is a familiar sight in both rural and urban settings, often seen standing stoically along the water's edge. An adult Grey Heron is a large bird, reaching up to 100 cm in height, with a wingspan between 155 to 195 cm. It weighs between 1 to 2 kg. The plumage is predominantly ashy-grey above, with a greyish-white underbelly and some black on the flanks. A striking feature is the white head and neck adorned with a broad black stripe that extends from the eye to the black crest. The beak is pinkish-yellow, long, and sharply pointed, while the legs are a brown hue.

When identifying the Grey Heron, look for the white head with the black supercilium and crest, the long grey neck, and the ashy-grey wings and back. The underparts are lighter, and the legs are long and brown. Juveniles can be distinguished by their duller grey neck and smaller crest. The beak is a useful indicator of age, being brighter in breeding adults.


Grey Herons are highly adaptable and can be found in a variety of watery habitats including lakes, rivers, ponds, marshes, and coastal environments. They require shallow waters for foraging or areas with shelving margins where they can wade.

Native to temperate Europe and Asia, as well as parts of Africa, the Grey Heron has a broad range. Northern populations may migrate southwards in autumn, while others remain resident year-round. Vagrant sightings have occurred in the Caribbean, Bermuda, and parts of North America.

The Grey Heron exhibits a slow, deliberate flight with its neck retracted in an S-shape. It is known for its solitary foraging habits, often standing motionless or stalking prey through shallow waters. It is also a communal rooster, often found in trees or cliffs at night.

The primary call of the Grey Heron is a loud croaking "fraaank." At breeding colonies, a variety of guttural and raucous noises can be heard, including greeting calls between mates and alarm calls when predators are nearby.



Breeding takes place in colonies, or heronries, typically in high trees near water. Nests are reused and added to each year. The breeding season sees a clutch of three to five bluish-green eggs laid, which both parents incubate. Chicks fledge at 7-8 weeks old.

The Grey Heron can be confused with the larger North American Great Blue Heron or the South American Cocoi Heron. However, it can be distinguished by its size and the coloration of its flanks and thighs.

Grey Herons are apex predators within their ecosystem, feeding on a variety of aquatic creatures such as fish, amphibians, crustaceans, and insects. They have also been known to consume small mammals and juvenile birds.

The Grey Heron is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating a stable and widespread population.

11-9-2017 VILLALONGA RESERVOIR, VALENCIA - EPAULET SKIMMER DRAGONFLY (MALE) (Orthetrum chrysostigma)


Orthetrum chrysostigma, the epaulet skimmer, is a species of dragonfly in the family Libellulidae. It is found in Algeria, Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ivory Coast, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya, Liberia, Libya, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Morocco, Mozambique, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, Sudan, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and possibly Burundi as well as Canary Islands, Israel, and Portugal. It was recorded in the Maltese Islands in 2010. One was also spotted in Tel Aviv, Israel in August 2022.

Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests, dry savanna, moist savanna, subtropical or tropical dry shrubland, subtropical or tropical moist shrubland, rivers, intermittent rivers, shrub-dominated wetlands, swamps, freshwater lakes, intermittent freshwater lakes, freshwater marshes, intermittent freshwater marshes, and freshwater springs. The adults prey on various flying insects. The bodies of adult males are blue, and those of young and females are yellow and brown.

11-9-2017 VILLALONGA RESERVOIR, VALENCIA - BANDED DEMOISELLE DAMSELFLY (Calopteryx splendens)


The banded demoiselle (Calopteryx splendens) is a species of damselfly belonging to the family Calopterygidae. It is often found along slow-flowing streams and rivers. It is a Eurasian species occurring from the Atlantic coast eastwards to Lake Baikal and northwestern China.

This is a common species throughout much of its range.


This is a large damselfly with a total length of up to 48 millimetres (1.9 in) and a hindwing length of up to 36 millimetres (1.4 in).

Male and female are variable in color and pattern. The male has translucent wings which each have a broad, dark iridescent blue-black spot (or band) across the outer part. On immature individuals the spot is dark brown. The body can be a metallic blue or bluish green or a combination of both colours, depending on the time of year and location.

The dark wing patch of the male starts at the nodus (the slight dip midway down the upper edge of the wing) but can reach up to the wing-tip in southern races. In the very similar beautiful demoiselle (Calopteryx virgo), the dark patch starts before the nodus.

The female has translucent, pale green iridescent wings with a white patch near the tip (a pseudopterostigma), and a metallic green or bronze/green body.


Females can lay up to 10 eggs per minute for 45 minutes. They lay in a wide variety of emergent or floating plants, sometimes even submerging to do so.

The eggs hatch after 14 days. The larvae have very long legs and are stick-shaped. They develop over two years, usually. They tolerate muddy water and overwinter buried in mud. When they are ready to moult into an adult, they climb up a suitable reed or plant and shed their skin.

This species lives in many types of freshwater habitat, particularly open running water bodies such as streams and smaller rivers.

Males are usually territorial, but large numbers can sometimes be found in lush bankside plants and on floating objects. They court females by opening their wings and performing an aerial dance. They are usually found in canals and quiet rivers with muddy bottoms located in open country.

The banded demoiselle is a Eurasian species, and is present throughout Eurasia from the Atlantic coast to Lake Baikal and north-western China. It occurs in Taganay and Zyuratkul National Parks of Russia. It can be found at Fruška Gora in Serbia. It's found throughout the British Isles, except for the Scottish Highlands.


Sunday, 10 September 2017

10-9-2017 VILLALONGA CAMPO, 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.