BIRDWALKERMONDAY

Sunday, 18 February 2018

12-11-2016 MINGUN, MYANMAR - COMMON GULL BUTTERFLY (Cepora nerissa)

Cepora nerissa, the common gull, is a small to medium-sized butterfly of the family Pieridae, that is, the yellows and whites, which is native to Sri Lanka, India, China, southeast Asia, and Indonesia.

The species lives in the north-western Himalayas up to 4,000 feet (1,200 m); Nepal; Sikkim; Bhutan; Bengal: central, western, and southern India; Ceylon.

12-11-2016 MINGUN, MYANMAR - CHALKY PERCHER DRAGONFLY (Diplacodes trivialis)

Diplacodes trivialis is a species of dragonfly in the family Libellulidae known as the chalky percher or ground skimmer. It is found in Seychelles, Oman, United Arab Emirates, China, Japan, India, Maldives and southwards to New Guinea and Australia.

Description and habitat

Diplacodes trivialis is small dragonfly with bluish eyes and greenish-yellow or olivaceous thorax and abdomen with black marks. In very old adults, the whole thorax and abdomen become uniform pruinosed blue. Clear wings, without apical or basal markings, and the creamy white anal appendages and deep pruinescence in adults help to distinguish this species from others in its genus. It breeds in ponds, wet rice fields, shallow lakes, drainage ditches and similar habitats. It is one of the most common dragonflies in Asia, found in both the plains and hills and in dry and wet areas.

12-11-2016 MINGUN, MYANMAR - LARGE BILLED CROW (Corvus macrorhynchos)

The large-billed crow (Corvus macrorhynchos ), formerly referred to widely as the jungle crow, is a widespread Asian species of crow. It is very adaptable and is able to survive on a wide range of food sources, making it capable of colonizing new areas, due to which it is often considered a nuisance, especially on islands. It has a large bill, which is the source of its scientific name macrorhynchos (Ancient Greek for "large beak") and it is sometimes known by the common name thick-billed crow. It can also be mistaken for a common raven. Johann Georg Wagler first described the species from a holotype obtained from Java in the year 1827. The eastern jungle crow and Indian jungle crow were once considered conspecific and together called the jungle crow.

The overall size (length: 46–59 cm; 18–23 in.). Wingspan is (100-130 cm; 39-51 in.). Body proportions vary regionally. In the far northeast in Japan, the Kuriles and the Sakhalin peninsula, it is somewhat larger than the carrion crow. All taxa have a relatively long bill with the upper one quite thick and arched, making it look heavy and almost raven-like. Generally, all taxa have dark greyish plumage from the back of the head, neck, shoulders and lower body. Their wings, tail, face, and throat are glossy black. The depth of the grey shading varies across its range.

11-11-2016 MANDALAY, MYANMAR - EURASIAN TREE SPARROW (FEMALE) (Passer montanus)

The Eurasian tree sparrow (Passer montanus) is a passerine bird in the sparrow family with a rich chestnut crown and nape, and a black patch on each pure white cheek. The sexes are similarly plumaged, and young birds are a duller version of the adult. This sparrow breeds over most of temperate Eurasia and Southeast Asia, where it is known as the tree sparrow, and it has been introduced elsewhere including the United States, where it is known as the Eurasian tree sparrow or German sparrow to differentiate it from the native unrelated American tree sparrow. Although several subspecies are recognised, the appearance of this bird varies little across its extensive range.

The Eurasian tree sparrow's untidy nest is built in a natural cavity, a hole in a building or the disused nest of a European magpie or white stork. The typical clutch is five or six eggs which hatch in under two weeks. This sparrow feeds mainly on seeds, but invertebrates are also consumed, particularly during the breeding season. As with other small birds, infection by parasites and diseases, and predation by birds of prey take their toll, and the typical life span is about two years.

10-11-2016 MANDALAY, MYANMAR - RED VENTED BULBUL (Pycnonotus cafer)

The red-vented bulbul (Pycnonotus cafer) is a member of the bulbul family of passerines. It is a resident breeder across the Indian subcontinent, including Sri Lanka extending east to Burma and parts of Bhutan and Nepal. It has been introduced in many other parts of the world and has established itself in New Zealand, Argentina, Tonga and Fiji, as well as parts of Samoa, Australia, USA and Cook Islands. It is included in the list of the world's 100 worst invasive alien species.

This is a bird of dry scrub, open forest, plains and cultivated lands. In its native range it is rarely found in mature forests. A study based on 54 localities in India concluded that vegetation is the single most important factor that determines the distribution of the species.

Red-vented bulbuls were introduced into Fiji in 1903 by indentured labourers from India, becoming widespread. They were introduced to Tonga in 1943 and became common on Samoa by 1957. They became established on the Tongan islands of Tongatapu and Niuafo'ou. They were introduced into Melbourne around 1917 but were not seen after 1942. They established in Auckland in the 1950s but were exterminated and another wild population was detected and exterminated in 2006. In 2013 more were found, and authorities offered a $1000 reward for information that led to a bird's capture. They prefer dry lowland habitat in these regions. They were first observed breeding on the Canary Islands in 2018. They are considered as pests because of their habit of damaging fruit crops. Methiocarb and ziram have been used to protect cultivated Dendrobium orchids in Hawaii from damage by these birds; however, they learn to avoid the repellent chemicals. They can also disperse the seeds of invasive plants like Lantana camara and Miconia calvescens.

10-11-2016 MANDALAY, MYANMAR - COPPERSMITH BARBET (Psilopogon haemacephalus)

The Coppersmith barbet (Psilopogon haemacephalus) is an Asian barbet known for its metronomic call that sounds similar to a coppersmith striking metal with a hammer. These birds live in areas with woods where they can excavate holes to build their nests.

The Coppersmith barbet is green with a red head, yellow cheeks, and a yellow throat. Its underparts are streaked in grey and black. During the nesting season, the wear and tear on the feathers can cause the plumage of the upper back to appear bluish.

Coppersmith barbets are found in South and Southeast Asia. They inhabit gardens, groves, and sparse woodland. In northern India, they occur in the valleys of the outer Himalayas and are rare in northwestern Indian states and in wet forests in Assam.

Coppersmith barbet live singly or in small groups. They may sometimes gather in larger parties in abundantly fruiting Ficus trees. They are diurnal birds and can often be seen sunning in the morning on bare top branches of tall trees, often flitting about to sit next to each other. Their flight is straight, with rapid flaps. Coppersmith barbets roost at night in their nest holes; some birds roost alone in cavities and often roost during part of the day. Immatures roost with the parents but often return to roost early so as not to be prevented by the parents from entering the roost cavity. The call of Coppersmith barbets is a loud rather metallic 'tuk…tuk…tuk' (or 'tunk'). The beak remains shut during each call - a patch of bare skin on both sides of the throat inflates and collapses with each 'tuk' like a rubber bulb and the head is bobbed. During the winter Coppersmith barbets are silent and do not call.

Coppersmith barbets are monogamous and form pairs. Their breeding season takes place through much of the year and varies depending on location. It is mainly February to April in India and December to September in Sri Lanka. Males attract females by singing, puffing of the throat, bobbing of the head, flicking of the tail, ritual feeding, and allopreening. After the pair was formed, both partners excavate the nest on the underside of a narrow horizontal branch. They also roost inside the nest holes. The female lays 3-4 eggs and both parents incubate them for about 2 weeks. The checks hatch blind and helpless. They are fed and tended by both parents. The chicks fledge around 35 days after hatching and become independent. Coppersmith barbets often raise two broods in quick succession.

Coppersmith barbets are not threatened as of today but in urban areas, they suffer from collisions with buildings and pesticide poisoning.

11-11-2016 MANDALAY, MYANMAR - GREAT MYNA (Acridotheres grandis)

The great myna (Acridotheres grandis ), also known as the white-vented myna, is a species of starling in the family Sturnidae. It is found in Northeast India, through Bangladesh to Southeast Asia.

It is black with elongated forehead feathers, forming a frontal crest that may curl backwards. Its beak and feet are yellow. It has white from the vent to the tip of the tail and a white wing patch.

A black myna with a spiffy crest. Not actually significantly larger than other dark crested mynas, but the combination of the bright yellow bill, prominent spiky crest, and white vent serve to distinguish it from other similar mynas. Forages in flocks in open areas such as meadows, agricultural fields, and urban parks and gardens, often with other species of mynas and starlings.

9-11-2016 MANDALAY, MYANMAR - BURMESE MYNA (Acridotheres burmannicus)

The Burmese myna (Acridotheres burmannicus) is a species of starling in the family Sturnidae. It is found in Myanmar and Yunnan, China.

The Burmese myna was considered conspecific with the vinous-breasted myna. Common names of the two split species were changed to "mynas" instead of "starlings" to match the genus.

Medium-sized starling of forest edge, agricultural fields, and open scrubby or grassy areas. Thin, black bandit’s mask, medium-gray back, grayish-pink chest, dark iris and bicolored orange-and-black bill. Pale gray rump, white tail tip and flashing white wing patches are most prominent in flight. Like many other starlings, typically encountered in pairs and flocks. Distinguished from Red-billed and Chestnut-tailed Starlings by its mask. Gives loud grating and chattering calls.

8-11-2016 MANDALAY, MYANMAR - AYEYARWADDY BULBUL (Pycnonotus blanfordi)

The Ayeyarwady bulbul (Pycnonotus blanfordi) is a member of the bulbul family of passerine birds. It is endemic to Myanmar. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests. Until 2016, the Ayeyarwady bulbul was considered to be conspecific with the streak-eared bulbul (now Pycnonotus conradi).

9-11-2016 MANDALAY, MYANMAR - BURMESE MYNA (Acridotheres burmannicus)

The Burmese myna (Acridotheres burmannicus) is a species of starling in the family Sturnidae. It is found in Myanmar and Yunnan, China.

The Burmese myna was considered conspecific with the vinous-breasted myna. Common names of the two split species were changed to "mynas" instead of "starlings" to match the genus.

Burmese Myna Lifestyle Info

The Burmese Myna, scientifically known as Acridotheres burmannicus, is a small to medium-sized bird that is native to Southeast Asia. It has a distinct appearance with its glossy black feathers, bright yellow eyes, and a yellow patch of skin around its eyes. This species is known for its adaptability and intelligence, making it a successful colonizer in various habitats, including urban areas.

When it comes to the diet of the Burmese Myna, it is an omnivorous bird, meaning it consumes both plant matter and small animals. Its diet primarily consists of fruits, berries, insects, spiders, small reptiles, and even small mammals. This adaptability allows the Burmese Myna to thrive in a wide range of environments, from forests to agricultural fields.

In terms of its living habits, the Burmese Myna is highly social and often forms large flocks, sometimes numbering in the hundreds. These flocks are not only for socializing but also for safety and foraging purposes. They communicate with each other through a variety of vocalizations, including whistles, screeches, and mimicry of other bird species. The Burmese Myna is known for its exceptional ability to mimic sounds, including human speech, which has earned it the reputation of being a talented mimic.

As a diurnal species, the Burmese Myna is active during the day, spending a significant amount of time foraging for food. Its strong beak and agile feet enable it to search for insects in the soil or leaf litter, as well as pluck fruits from trees. It is a highly opportunistic feeder, taking advantage of available food sources, which contributes to its successful adaptation in various habitats.

When it comes to sleep patterns, the Burmese Myna typically roosts in large groups, seeking shelter in trees, buildings, or other structures. These communal roosting sites provide safety in numbers and protection from predators. The Burmese Myna is known to exhibit communal breeding behavior as well, with multiple pairs nesting close to each other, often in tree cavities or man-made structures such as buildings or nest boxes.

During the breeding season, which varies depending on the region, the Burmese Myna engages in courtship displays, which include vocalizations and elaborate flights. The female typically lays a clutch of three to six eggs, which are incubated by both parents. The incubation period lasts around two weeks.

Saturday, 17 February 2018

9-11-2016 MANDALAY, MYANMAR - COMMON MYNA (Acridotheres tristis)

The Common myna (Acridotheres tristis) is a tropical bird with a strong territorial instinct, which has adapted extremely well to urban environments. The range of the Common myna is increasing at such a rapid rate that in 2000 the IUCN Species Survival Commission declared it one of the world's most invasive species and one of only three birds listed among "100 of the World's Worst Invasive Species" that pose a threat to biodiversity, agriculture, and human interests.

Common mynas can be recognized by their brown body, black hooded head, and the bare yellow patch behind the eye. Their bill and legs are bright yellow. There is a white patch on the outer primaries and the wing lining on the underside is white. The male and female look similar and are usually seen in pairs.

Common mynas are native to Asia with their home range spanning from Iran, Pakistan, India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka; as well as Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Myanmar, to Malaysia, Singapore, peninsular Thailand, Indo-China, Japan (both mainland Japan and the Ryukyu Islands) and China. These birds are typically found in a wide range of habitats with access to water; they inhabit open woodland, mangroves, grasslands, farmlands, orchards, and urban areas.

17-2-2018 GANDIA, VALENCIA - SPECKLED WOOD BUTTERFLY (Pararge aegeria)

17-2-2018 GANDIA, VALENCIA - SPOTLESS STARLING (Sturnus unicolor)

18-2-2018 GANDIA, VALENCIA - EUROPEAN SERIN (MALE) (Serinus serinus)

8-11-2016 MANDALAY, MYANMAR - ZEBRA DOVE (Geopelia striata)

The zebra dove (Geopelia striata ), also known as the barred ground dove, or barred dove, is a species of bird of the dove family, Columbidae, native to Southeast Asia. They are small birds with a long tail, predominantly brownish-grey in colour with black-and-white barring. The species is known for its pleasant, soft, staccato cooing calls.

The birds are small and slender with a long, narrow tail. The upperparts are brownish-grey with black-and-white barring. The underparts are pinkish with black bars on the sides of the neck, breast and belly. The face is blue-grey with bare blue skin around the eyes. There are white tips to the tail feathers. Juveniles are duller and paler than the adults. They can also have brown feathers. Zebra doves are 20–23 centimetres in length with a wingspan of 24–26 cm.

Their call is a series of soft, staccato cooing notes. In Thailand and Indonesia, the birds are popular as pets because of their calls and cooing competitions are held to find the bird with the best voice. In Indonesia this bird is called perkutut. In the Philippines they are known as batobatong katigbe ("pebbled katigbe") and kurokutok ; in Malaysia this bird is called merbuk, onomatopoeic to their calls. They are also known as tukmo in Filipino, a name also given to the spotted dove (Spilopelia chinensis ) and other wild doves.

8-11-2016 MANDALAY, MYANMAR - SPOTTED DOVE (Streptopelia chinensis)

The Spotted dove (Spilopelia chinensis) is a small pigeon that is a common across its native range on the Indian subcontinent and in Southeast Asia. These birds are also called the Mountain dove, Pearl-necked dove, Lace-necked dove, and Spotted turtle-dove.

The ground color of this long and slim dove is rosy buff below shading into grey on the head and belly. There is a half collar on the back and sides of the neck made of black feathers that bifurcate and have white spots at the two tips. The median coverts have brown feathers tipped with rufous spots in the Indian and Sri Lankan subspecies which are divided at the tip by a widening grey shaft streak. The wing feathers are dark brown with grey edges. The center of the abdomen and vent are white. The outer tail feathers are tipped in white and become visible when the bird takes off. The male and the female are similar, but juveniles are duller than adults and do not acquire the neck spots until they are mature.

Population size

Unknown

Life Span

8 years

Weight

160

goz

g oz

Length

28-32

cminch

cm inch

Wingspan

43-48

cminch

cm inch

Friday, 16 February 2018

8-11-2016 MANDALAY, MYANMAR - RED VENTED BULBUL (Pycnonotus cafer)

The red-vented bulbul (Pycnonotus cafer ) is a member of the bulbul family of passerines. It is a resident breeder across the Indian subcontinent, including Sri Lanka extending east to Burma and parts of Bhutan and Nepal. It has been introduced in many other parts of the world and has established itself in New Zealand, Argentina, Tonga and Fiji, as well as parts of Samoa, Australia, USA and Cook Islands. It is included in the list of the world's 100 worst invasive alien species.

The Red-vented bulbul is a medium-sized songbird that can be found across the Indian subcontinent. It can be easily identified by its short crest giving the head a squarish appearance. The body of this bird is dark brown with a scaly pattern while the head is darker or black. The rump is white while the vent is red. It has a long black tail, tipped in white. The males and the females of this species look similar, but young birds are duller than adults.

Red-vented bulbuls occur across Sri Lanka extending east to Burma and parts of Bhutan and Nepal. These birds don’t migrate and inhabit dry scrub, open forests, plains, cultivated areas, parks, and gardens.

Red-vented bulbuls are diurnal social birds. Outside of the breeding season, they like to form large flocks and gather together in communal roosts. The typical call of Red-vented bulbuls has been transcribed as ginger beer, but they also produce a number of sharp single-note calls sounding like a pick. Their alarm calls are usually responded to and heeded by many other species of bird.

Population size

Unknown

Life Span

11 years

Weight

26-45

goz

g oz

Length

cminch

cm inch