TOTAL PAGEVIEWS

1900336

TRANSLATE

Monday, 26 March 2018

26-3-2018 HERMANUS, SOUTH AFRICA - CAPE GULL (JUVENILE) (larus dominicanus ssp vetula)


The Cape gull differs from other forms of kelp gulls by its darker iris and larger body and bill size. The Southern African population is estimated to include 11,000 breeding pairs, and is expanding.

The kelp gull is referred to as the Cape gull in South Africa. There is currently a movement to have the gull that lives on the South African shoreline renamed to Cape gull, as it is so similar to the kelp gull, but they are not identical species.

The Cape gull is largely sedentary, and large colonies tend to stick to a favoured beach or coastal area. They frequently converge at popular feeding sites, and have been known to attack prey en masse.
This black and white gull is a common visitor to the beaches of the country. Its back and the tops of its wings are black; while the belly, head and tail are white. There are also white tips on the wings, called mirrors. The legs are a green-tinged yellow, which goes a brighter hue of yellow during the breeding season; and the bill is yellow with a vivid red spot on the underside.

Juveniles have a mottled-grey plumage, duller colouring on their legs, and a black bill. They take about three years to mature. The Cape gull has a shorter bill and a more angular head, and is differentiated by its pristine white tail and its dark-coloured eye.


Size
Range mass: 0.6 – 1.3kg
Range length: 54 – 65cm
Range wingspan: 128 – 142cm.

Gulls are, in general, flexible diners; happy to take whatever is available. Naturally, they tend to favour fish, worms, molluscs, smaller birds, and even small mammals and vermin. They have been seen picking up shellfish, soaring up, and dropping them from a dizzying height to break the exoskeleton.

They will prey on young and sick animals (including beached whales and dolphins, or even cattle), or those small enough to grasp and kill. They are often seen eating fast-food and rubbish that has been left behind by bathers on the beaches. They are omnivores, so they will also eat berries and fruit, where available.


Cape gulls live along the coastline of various countries and islands in the Southern Hemisphere, as well as in harbours, bays and estuaries. There are rarely found more than a few kilometres away from the sea.

In southern Africa, Cape or kelp gulls can be found in particularly large colonies between Cape Cross (western Namibia), through to the Great Fish River in the Eastern Cape. There are also non-breeding birds in Angola, Mozambique and Luanda.


The Cape gull is largely sedentary, and large colonies tend to stick to a favoured beach or coastal area. They frequently converge at popular feeding sites, and have been known to attack prey en masse. This is the case when they peck out the eyes of seal pups and then attack the blinded pups in a group, leaving little chance of escape. Breeding colonies are made up of hundreds of pairs, and are gregarious and social all year around.

This gull variety uses a grating, harsh “ki-och” to communicate with others of its kind.

The kelp gull's breeding season is between September and January, when it will pair with its lifelong partner and lay between two and three eggs in it shallow nest. The nest is a simple large hollow in the ground or on the rocks, which has been lined with feathers and leaves to keep it warm and comfortable for the chicks. Both of the parents incubate the eggs and, once the chicks hatch, they are both responsible for feeding them.

At about seven weeks old, the chicks are ready to fledge. They will reach sexual maturity at between three and four years of age.

Incubation
24 to 30 days.

Life Expectancy
Up to 20 years.

26-3-2018 HERMANUS, SOUTH AFRICA - CAPE WAGTAIL (Motacilla capensis ssp capensis)


The Cape wagtail, or Wells's wagtail, is a modestly adorned bird with a relatively short tail. Its upperparts are an unassuming olive grey, while the face is similarly hued, accented by a tan supercilium and dark lores. The underparts are a soft creamy white, occasionally showing a subtle pinkish tinge on the lower breast and belly. A dusky breast band is present, and the flanks share the olive-grey of the breast. The wings are a brownish black with pale feather edging, and the tail is predominantly blackish, save for the white outer feathers. Juveniles resemble adults but are a touch browner above and have a more yellowish hue below.

Look for the iconic black triangle on the chest, a key feature for identification. There is no sexual dimorphism in plumage, so males and females appear alike.


The Cape wagtail is a versatile species, inhabiting areas near water such as riverbanks, as well as rocky coastlines, farms, villages, cultivated lands, parks, gardens, and urban centres. In East Africa, it is typically found at altitudes above 2,000 meters.

This bird is widespread in eastern and southern Africa, ranging from Uganda and Kenya, through Zambia and Angola, and down to the Western Cape and the Cape of Good Hope.

The species is mostly resident and territorial, but some may migrate altitudinally or form flocks outside the breeding season.


Cape wagtails are monogamous and may remain with their breeding partner across multiple seasons. They are solitary nesters, constructing nests in a variety of natural and artificial recesses. Breeding can occur year-round, with a peak from mid-winter to early summer. Clutches typically consist of one to five eggs, incubated by both parents for about two weeks. Chicks are fed by both parents and fledge in about two to three weeks, with full independence reached approximately one to two months post-fledging.

The Cape wagtail's diet consists mainly of invertebrates, which it hunts on the ground or in shallow water. It is known to feed on a variety of prey, including insects, fiddler crabs, sandhoppers, snails, ticks, tadpoles, small fish, and even small chameleons. It is also known to consume carrion and occasionally human food.

The Cape wagtail is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating that it is not currently at significant risk of widespread decline.

26-3-2018 HERMANUS, SOUTH AFRICA - SOUTHERN FISCAL SHRIKE (lanius collaris)


The Southern Fiscal (Lanius collaris), is a striking bird of the shrike family, prevalent throughout much of southern Africa. It is colloquially referred to as the 'jackie hangman' or 'butcher bird', a nod to its unique habit of impaling its prey on acacia thorns, a larder for future feasting. This bird was once considered conspecific with the Northern Fiscal, Lanius humeralis, under the collective title of the Common Fiscal.

Adult Southern Fiscals measure between 21 to 23 centimeters in length. They exhibit a bold dichromatic plumage with crisp white underparts contrasting sharply against their sleek black upperparts. A distinctive white "V" marks their back, and their long black tail is adorned with white outer feathers and white tips. Both sexes possess a black bill, eyes, and legs, with the female distinguished by her rufous lower flanks.

The Southern Fiscal is an adaptable species, inhabiting a variety of environments from grasslands adorned with fences suitable for perching, to acacia thornveld and even woodlands. It tends to avoid overly dense areas that would hinder its hunting prowess.

This bird's range extends across southern and eastern parts of the African continent, including parts of Angola, Namibia, South Africa, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, Zambia, Botswana, Tanzania, Malawi, and Zimbabwe.


A solitary hunter, the Southern Fiscal typically perches in exposed locations or atop shrubs, from where it preys on insects and small rodents. Its territorial range is influenced by the availability of perching sites, with an increase in artificial perches leading to a reduction in territory size. The bird's hunting strategies and physiology adapt to seasonal variations, with changes in body temperature, metabolic rate, and hunting methods observed in response to different environmental conditions.

The Southern Fiscal's vocal repertoire includes a mix of shrike-like sounds, ranging from harsh alarm calls to more melodious songs. While its song may sound sweet, it is generally used for territorial defense or pair bonding.

The Southern Fiscal's diet consists primarily of insects and small rodents. It has been noted as a significant predator of the plain tiger butterfly in eastern Africa. Seasonal changes influence its foraging behavior, with the bird adjusting its hunting times, attack rates, and prey size in response to the availability of food.

26-3-2018 HERMANUS, SOUTH AFRICA - SOUTHERN AMETHYST SUNBIRD (FEMALE) (Chalcomitra amethystina ssp. amethystina)


The amethyst sunbird, also called the black sunbird (Chalcomitra amethystina), is a species of passerine bird in the family Nectariniidae. It is native to the Afrotropics, mostly south of the equator. They are commonly found in well-watered habitats, and undertake seasonal movements to visit flowering woodlands. The demise of some woodlands have impacted their numbers locally, but their range has also expanded along with the spread of wooded gardens.

Though mostly found singly or in pairs, larger numbers may concentrate at favourite flowering trees, where they act aggressively towards other sunbird species. The complex song is a loud, sustained twittering. Food includes emergent termites, spiders and nectar. In courtship a male will hop about a branch near a female, drop one wing, then the other, and finally both wings. The wings will then be fluttered and displayed. A responsive female may lower her head, and assume a rigid posture.

Breeding pairs of amethyst sunbird are widely spaced, and the female builds the nest. Favoured trees include exotic eucalypts and pines, and are often close to buildings or human activity. Nests are attached to a drooping branch, below the canopy, or hidden by foliage. Nests are built from fine grass stems, which are bound together with cobwebs. The nest is often decorated with lichens, or other debris. Two speckled eggs are laid, but successive clutches may be raised from the same nest in a single season. Nests are parasitized by green-backed honeybird and Klaas's cuckoo.

25-3-2018 CENTRAL PARK, CAPE TOWN - AFRICAN MONARCH BUTTERFLY (Danaus chrysippus ssp orientis)




Sunday, 25 March 2018

26-3-2018 HERMANUS, SOUTH AFRICA - KELP GULL (Larus dominicanus)



 

25-3-2018 TABLE MOUNTAIN, CAPE TOWN - ZEBRA FINCH (Taeniopygia guttata)


The zebra finch is a small songbird from Australia known for its cheerful and social nature. Zebra finch care is not difficult, even for a beginner, making the birds popular as pets. They're relatively hardy birds, able to tolerate changes in their environment.


The zebra finch bird is soft gray, with red eyes, "tear drop" markings (small black lines running straight down under each eye), and bright orange legs and beak. The male zebra finch has a deeper reddish-orange beak, while the female's beak tends to have a lighter orange color.

The male zebra finch has black "mustache" markings, which are thin black lines running along both sides of their beak. The area between the mustache and tear-drop markings is usually white. On the outside of the tear-drop markings, the typical male finch sports rusty-orange cheeks. They have a "bib" of tiny black stripes from their beak down to their chest. Their tail has bolder black and white stripes. On their sides, they have chestnut-brown feathers with white spots.

Female zebra finches are almost entirely gray and don't sing like the males. When they're young, all zebra finches look like females, except their beaks are black instead of orange. Their adult colors appear when they're around 2 to 3 months old. Both males and females are quite small even as adults, reaching a length of about 4 inches and weighing less than a half-ounce on average.


Zebra finches are diurnal, so they're active during the day and sleep at night. In the wild, they live together in flocks of about 100 birds. During breeding, the large flock splits into groups of around 50 finches. The birds in this smaller group will allow each other to visit their nesting site but will drive away birds from other groups. They know each member by their song, which is unique to each individual male.

As they grow up, male zebra finches listen to the songs of the birds around them. They use bits of music from their relatives and other sounds they hear in the environment to create a complex song of their own. The males use songs along with a courtship dance to woo the females. Zebra finches are monogamous — they'll only mate with one partner and bond for life with their chosen mate.

25-3-2018 TABLE MOUNTAIN, CAPE TOWN - BLACK LEGGED NEPHILA (Nephila fenestrata)


Trichonephilia fenestrata is a species of nephilid spider known from Africa. It was first described by Tamerlan Thorell in 1859 as Nephila fenestrata, and was later moved to Trichonephila when it was elevated to genus status by Kuntner in 2019. Three subspecies are known from different parts of Africa. Males of this species often autotomize their legs as a counter-adaptation to the sexual cannibalism of females.

The female, with a body length of 20-30mm, is almost entirely black and the first, second and fourth pairs of legs have a brush of bristles on the tibia. The third pair of legs is the shortest with no brush. The abdomen is elongated (long oval) and is cream to yellow with the caudal section (towards the tail end) black or blue with speckles infusing forward into the yellow. There is a huge variation of abdominal patterns with the amount of black or blue on the abdomen. The key feature to identify this species is the black legs and window pattern ventrally.


Nephila fenestrata, the Black-legged nephila, occurs over most of South Africa, excluding the arid central and western regions, and is the only species of Nephila to occur in the Western Cape. Since 2002 this species has crossed over the Hottentots Holland mountain range and is now the most commonly seen orb-web spider on the Cape Peninsula. It can be seen from January till the end of June or even to the end of August, usually in forested areas or near areas with trees allowing for suspension of their large orb-webs. In Kirstenbosch and Newlands Forest one can easily see 30 or more of these spiders on a walk.

23-3-2018 BOULDER BAY, CAPE TOWN - AFRICAN PENGUIN (Spheniscus demersus)


The African penguin (Spheniscus demersus) is a species of penguin that lives in southern African waters. Like all extant penguins, it is flightless and adapted for a marine habitat. Once extremely numerous, the African penguin is declining rapidly due to a combination of several threats and is classified as endangered. It is a charismatic species and is popular with tourists.

The African penguin is a small to medium-sized penguin with black-and-white plumage, serving the animal as a perfect camouflage to protect it from predators. Due to the black feathers on their back, they merge with the environment, remaining unseen to those looking down from above. Meanwhile, the white coloration on the front part of their body allows them to be unspotted by aquatic predators, looking up from below. The penguins have a horseshoe-shaped, white-colored stripe on their face, stretching from around their eyes to their chest as well on the chin, towards the bill. Young penguins possess gray-blue feathers, which darken as they grow up.


African penguins are found along the coast of South Africa and Namibia. They do not migrate and live in colonies on 24 islands between Namibia and Algoa Bay, near Port Elizabeth, South Africa. African penguins spend most of their lives at sea and come ashore to breed and molt.

African penguins are both diurnal and crepuscular. By day, the birds hide in their burrows, escaping the sun. At twilight and dawn, they come out to forage. African penguins are highly social animals. Grooming is a common activity in these animals. They groom each other in order to clean the plumage, rearrange the feathers and take off parasites. In addition, grooming reinforces the social bond between a pair. During their courtship rituals, the birds are extremely noisy, emitting loud calls, which are quite similar to these of donkeys. In order to clean and cool themselves, they frequently take baths, making their bathing spots at a distance of just a few meters from the seashore.


These birds are monogamous, mating once in a lifetime. They can use the same breeding sites for many years. African penguins breed all year round with the peak period, occurring in February. Usually, the female digs a burrow or simply uses a hollow under a rock or bush, where she lays 2 eggs, after which both the male and the female incubate the eggs for up to 40 days. During the first month after hatching out, the chicks are fed and cared by both parents. Then they join crèches or groups of other chicks, where they find protection from predators. The chicks stay with their parents, until the age of 3-5 months, after which they leave the colony and start living independently. Male penguins become reproductively mature at 5 years old while females start to breed when they are 4 years old.


Commercial fishing negatively affects the population of the species, reducing prey items and leading to food shortages. Meanwhile, the African penguins compete with Cape Fur Seals for breeding areas as well as prey items. On the other hand, the penguins are threatened by their natural predators. For example, they are prey species for seals, while their eggs and chicks are a source of food for other predators in the area. In addition, these birds currently suffer from oil pollution.


The African penguin, known scientifically as Spheniscus demersus and colloquially as the Cape penguin or South African penguin, is a flightless bird distinguished by its streamlined body and flippers adapted for life in the water. Adults typically weigh between 2.2 and 3.5 kilograms and stand 60 to 70 centimeters tall. Notable for the pink patches of skin above their eyes and a stark black facial mask, their upper parts are a contrasting black against the white underparts, which are adorned with spots and a distinctive black band.


To identify the African penguin, look for the unique pink gland above their eyes, which becomes more vibrant as they regulate their temperature. Their black and white plumage is a classic example of countershading, providing camouflage from predators. Each penguin has a unique pattern of black spots on the chest, akin to human fingerprints. Males are generally larger with longer beaks than females.

These penguins are found along the coastlines of southern Africa, with colonies established on various islands and some mainland sites. They prefer nesting in burrows or under vegetation to protect against predators and the hot sun.

The African penguin is endemic to the southwestern coast of Africa, breeding on 24 islands between Namibia and Algoa Bay, South Africa. Notably, they have also established colonies on the mainland near Cape Town.

African penguins are monogamous and known for their loud, donkey-like calls. They are pursuit divers, hunting for fish and squid, and can travel up to 20 kilometers from shore. They are social birds, breeding in colonies and often forming crèches for their young.


The African penguin's vocalizations are varied and serve multiple functions, from mate recognition to territorial defense. Their most famous call is a loud braying, which has earned them the nickname "jackass penguin."

Breeding occurs throughout the year, with peaks varying by location. Nests are made in burrows or under cover to protect from the heat. Two eggs are laid, and both parents share incubation duties. Chicks join crèches after about a month, and parents continue to forage at sea to feed them.

The African penguin is similar in appearance to the Humboldt, Magellanic, and Galápagos penguins, with which it shares the genus Spheniscus. However, it can be distinguished by its unique chest markings and the single black band across the chest.

Their diet consists mainly of pelagic fish like sardines and anchovies, as well as squid and small crustaceans. They are known to consume up to 540 grams of prey daily, which can increase when feeding older chicks.

The African penguin is classified as Endangered, with a rapid decline in population due to several threats, including oil spills, historical exploitation for their eggs, competition with fisheries, and habitat degradation. Conservation efforts are underway, including habitat protection, pollution mitigation, and captive breeding programs.

24-3-2018 BOTANICAL GARDENS, CAPE TOWN - CAPE BULBUL (Pycnonotus capensis)

Saturday, 24 March 2018

24-3-2018 BOTANICAL GARDENS, CAPE TOWN - CAPE ROBIN CHAT (cossypha caffra)


The Cape robin-chat (Dessonornis caffer) is a small, unassuming member of the Old World flycatcher family Muscicapidae. This bird, with its grey upper parts and vibrant orange underparts, measures a modest 16–17 cm in length and tips the scales at around 28 grams. Both sexes are similarly attired, making them indistinguishable in the field.

When observing the Cape robin-chat, look for the prominent white supercilium that contrasts with the blackish lores and ear coverts. The orange rump, upper tail coverts, and outer tail feathers are striking, particularly when the bird fans its tail, revealing the greyish-brown central and rufous lateral rectrices. The bill is short and black, and the legs and feet share this dark hue.

The Cape robin-chat is quite adaptable, favoring the edges of Afromontane forests, bracken-briar fringes, and even man-altered habitats such as city suburbs and farmstead woodlots. It thrives in environments that offer dense cover with interspersed trees or song posts.

This species has a disjunct range stretching from South Sudan to South Africa. It is a resident breeder in eastern and southern Africa, with some populations migrating short distances in winter.

The Cape robin-chat is a solitary creature, often seen hopping on the ground or perching conspicuously. It is known for its tail movements, frequently jerking it up or fanning it upon landing. This bird is also a daily bather and may even indulge in tide pools.


The Cape robin-chat's song is a melodious and ringing series of short phrases, often heard at dawn and dusk. Its alarm call is a distinctive, guttural trisyllabic sound, reminiscent of local names like “Jan frederik.” The species is also capable of mimicking the calls of other birds.

Monogamous and territorial, the Cape robin-chat builds a cup-shaped nest close to the ground, often concealed by vegetation. It lays two to three eggs, which are incubated primarily by the female. Both parents feed the nestlings, which fledge after about two weeks but remain dependent for a further five to seven weeks.

The Cape robin-chat is altitudinally segregated from the red-capped robin-chat and is less of a skulker compared to its relatives. It can be distinguished by its less colorful plumage and preference for drier or higher altitude habitats.

This bird forages for invertebrates, small frogs, and lizards within scrub or leaf litter, and also consumes fruit and seeds. It may occasionally hawk insects in the air or glean invertebrates from foliage.

24-3-2018 BOTANICAL GARDENS, CAPE TOWN - SWEE WAXBILL (coccopygia melanotis)


The swee waxbill, a diminutive bird measuring a mere 9-10 cm in length, presents a charming palette of colors. Its head and breast are cloaked in soft grey, while a pale yellow belly adds a splash of brightness. The back and wings are adorned in olive, transitioning to a striking red on the lower back and rump. A black tail completes the ensemble. Notably, the upper mandible is a stark black, contrasting with the red lower mandible. Males are distinguished by their black faces, whereas females exhibit grey faces. The juveniles, in comparison, are considerably more subdued in coloration and possess an entirely black bill.

When attempting to identify the swee waxbill, look for the distinctive coloration of the sexes, with males sporting black faces and females grey. The juveniles' duller appearance and black bill can also aid in identification. The bird's small size and the contrast between the black upper mandible and red lower mandible are key characteristics to observe.


The swee waxbill is typically associated with upland regions, favoring dry shrubland and open forest environments. However, certain subspecies have adapted to lowland areas and can occasionally be spotted in expansive gardens.

This species is known for its commonality and tame nature, often observed in small social groups. Unlike some of its kin, the swee waxbill does not congregate in large flocks. Its presence is often announced by a soft, melodious "swee, swee" call.

The call of the swee waxbill is a gentle and distinctive "swee, swee," a sound that resonates softly through its preferred habitats.

The IUCN has classified the swee waxbill as Least Concern, indicating that, at present, there are no immediate threats to its population levels that would warrant a higher degree of conservation action.

23-3-2018 BOULDER BAY, CAPE TOWN - HADADA IBIS (Bostrychia hagedash)



23-3-2018 BOULDER BEACH, CAPE TOWN - CAPE GULL (larus dominicanus ssp vetula)

Friday, 23 March 2018

23-3-2018 BOULDER BAY, SOUTH AFRICA - KAROO PRINIA (karoo prinia)


The Karoo prinia, or spotted prinia (Prinia maculosa), presents itself as a small, active passerine bird, measuring between 13 to 15 centimeters in length. It is adorned with short, rounded wings, a longish tail that it often holds cocked, and robust legs. Its bill is short and straight, colored a deep black. The bird's head features a whitish eyebrow, while the upperparts are a plain brown. The throat and lower face are whitish with dark streaking, and the underparts are a pale yellowish white or yellow, marked with distinct black streaking. A notable dark spot near the end of the long tail adds to its distinctive appearance. The feet and legs are a pinkish-brown, and the eye is a deep, dark brown. Both sexes of the Karoo prinia are identical in plumage, though juveniles can be distinguished by their much yellower underparts and lighter streaking.

When identifying the Karoo prinia, look for the bird's whitish eyebrow and the streaked underparts. The tail is typically held at an angle and has a dark spot near the end. Juveniles are yellower below and less heavily streaked than adults.

20-3-2018 RETIRO PARQUE, MADRID - EURASIAN BLUE TIT (Cyanistes caeruleus)


The Eurasian blue tit (Cyanistes caeruleus) is a diminutive and vibrant passerine, a member of the tit family, Paridae. It is distinguished by its striking blue and yellow plumage and compact stature.

This species exhibits an azure-blue crown with a dark blue line passing through the eye and encircling the white cheeks to the chin. The forehead and a wing bar are white, while the nape, wings, and tail are blue. The back is yellowish-green, and the underparts are predominantly sulphur-yellow with a dark abdominal line. Both sexes are similar, but males may exhibit a brighter blue crown under ultraviolet light.

Eurasian blue tits are found in temperate and subarctic Europe and the western Palearctic, favoring deciduous or mixed woodlands rich in oak. They are adaptable and can thrive in tree holes or nest boxes in various environments, including urban areas.

The species is widespread and commonly breeds across Europe, extending into parts of the Middle East. It is a resident bird, with populations found from Ireland and the United Kingdom to Iran and northern Turkey.


Eurasian blue tits are known for their agility and acrobatic feeding habits, often hanging upside down on the outermost branches. They form mixed winter flocks with other tit species and are adept at ascending tree trunks in short hops.

Their vocal repertoire includes songs and calls used for territory defense, mate attraction, and communication. Alarm calls may be used to warn of predators, and a series of high-pitched notes are associated with courtship and copulation.

Nesting occurs in suitable cavities, with a preference for holes in trees or artificial nest boxes. The species is socially monogamous but may engage in extra-pair copulations. Clutch size can be large, with eggs laid in April or May.

Primarily insectivorous, the Eurasian blue tit's diet consists of insects and spiders, with seeds and other plant-based foods consumed outside the breeding season. Caterpillars are particularly important for feeding nestlings.

Wednesday, 21 March 2018

20-3-2018 RETIRO PARQUE. MADRID - BLACK SWAN (Cygnus atratus)


The black swan (Cygnus atratus) is a striking large waterbird, native to the southeastern and southwestern regions of Australia. It is characterized by its predominantly black plumage and a distinctive red bill, with a pale bar and tip. The legs and feet are a greyish-black hue. Males, known as cobs, are marginally larger than females, or pens, and possess a longer, straighter bill. Juveniles, referred to as cygnets, display a greyish-brown coloration with pale-edged feathers.

Adult black swans range from 110 to 142 centimeters in length and weigh between 3.7 and 9 kilograms. Their wingspan stretches from 1.6 to 2 meters. Notably, they have the longest neck relative to body size among swans, which is typically curved into an elegant "S" shape.

Black swans inhabit a variety of wetland environments, including fresh, brackish, and saltwater lakes, as well as swamps and rivers with abundant underwater and emergent vegetation. They are also found in permanent wetlands and ornamental lakes, and may occasionally venture into flooded pastures, tidal mudflats, or the open sea near islands or the coast.

20-3-2018 RETIRO PARQUE, MADRID - MONK PARAKEET (Myiopsitta monachus)


The Monk Parakeet, also known as the Quaker Parrot, is a small and vibrant green parrot with a greyish breast and a greenish-yellow abdomen. This charming bird is a member of the true parrot family, Psittacidae, and is known for its relatively long lifespan of 20-30 years.

Adult Monk Parakeets measure approximately 29 cm (11 in) in length with a wingspan of 48 cm (19 in), and an average weight of 100 g (3.5 oz). The species exhibits sexual dimorphism, with females being 10-20% smaller than males. They possess bright-green upperparts, a pale gray forehead and breast with darker scalloping, and very light-green to yellow underparts. Their remiges are dark blue, and they have a long, tapering tail. The bill is a notable orange color. Vocalizations include a loud and throaty chape(-yee) or quak quaki quak-wi quarr, and screeches skveet.

Monk Parakeets are adaptable birds that originally inhabit temperate to subtropical areas of South America. They are known to build stick nests in trees or on man-made structures, a unique behavior among parrots.


Native to South America, these birds are common in Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay. They have established feral populations in North America and Europe, mainly in urban areas and regions with climates similar to their native habitat.

Monk Parakeets are gregarious and often breed colonially. They construct large communal nests with separate entrances for each pair. These nests can become quite sizable and may house other species. The birds are known to have helper individuals that assist with feeding the young, a behavior known as kin selection.

The Monk Parakeet's call is a distinctive and throaty chape(-yee) or quak quaki quak-wi quarr, with screeches of skveet. These vocalizations are important for communication within the species.

These parakeets breed in colonies, with nests that can house multiple pairs. Each pair has its own entrance to the communal nest. They lay five to 12 white eggs, which hatch in about 24 days.

Monk Parakeets are known to feed on various seeds, fruits, and vegetation. In their native range, they are sometimes considered agricultural pests due to their feeding habits.

Tuesday, 20 March 2018

21-4-2018 OKAVANGO DELTA, BOTSWANA - YELLOW BILLED KITE (Milvus migrans ssp. parasitus)


The Yellow-billed Kite, Milvus aegyptius, is a bird of prey that is part of the Accipitridae family. It is distinguished by its entirely yellow bill, a feature that sets it apart from its close relative, the Black Kite. The adult Yellow-billed Kite is a sight to behold with its striking bill, while the juveniles bear a closer resemblance to the Black Kites of similar age.

To identify the Yellow-billed Kite, look for the characteristic yellow bill which is a key distinguishing feature. Adults have this prominent yellow bill, while the juveniles may require a more practiced eye as they look similar to the Black Kite juveniles.

The Yellow-billed Kite is a versatile species, found in a variety of habitats. These range from the green expanses of parks within suburban areas to the more natural settings, although they are seldom seen in the arid regions of the Namib and Karoo.


There are two subspecies of the Yellow-billed Kite. M. a. parasitus is found throughout most of sub-Saharan Africa, including Madagascar, but avoids the Congo Basin. M. a. aegyptius resides in Egypt, southwest Arabia, and the Horn of Africa, migrating south during the non-breeding season.

The Yellow-billed Kite is primarily an intra-African breeding migrant, present in Southern Africa from July to March, and occasionally until May. It is a common species, often seen gracefully soaring in the skies or scavenging for food.

This raptor has a varied diet that includes a wide range of small vertebrates and insects. It is an opportunistic feeder, often scavenging for meals.

The IUCN has classified the Yellow-billed Kite as Least Concern. There are currently no significant threats to the population of this resilient and widespread bird species.

20-3-2018 RETIRO PARQUE, MADRID - SHORT TOED TREE CREEPER (Certhia brachydactylba)


The Short-toed Treecreeper, Certhia brachydactyla, is a diminutive passerine bird, a master of camouflage with its mottled brown upperparts and whitish underbelly. This species, with its curved bill and stiff tail feathers, is adept at navigating the vertical world of tree trunks in search of sustenance.

When attempting to identify the Short-toed Treecreeper, look for its intricate pattern of black, buff, and white on dull grey-brown upperparts, a subtle off-white supercilium, and less vivid underparts compared to its throat. Both sexes are similarly attired, while juveniles may present with whitish underparts and occasionally a buff belly. Its bill is slightly longer and toes shorter than those of its common cousin, aiding in its identification.

This species is a resident of woodlands, showing a preference for mature deciduous trees and lower altitudes, particularly where oak trees are abundant. It tends to avoid pure coniferous stands, especially where its range overlaps with the Common Treecreeper.

The Short-toed Treecreeper graces the warmer regions of Europe and extends its reach into North Africa. It is generally sedentary, though vagrants have been noted beyond its usual breeding grounds.

This unassuming bird is solitary in winter, but may roost communally during cold spells. It ascends tree trunks in short hops, using its tail and feet for support, and exhibits an erratic, undulating flight pattern.


The call is a shrill "tyt…tyt tyt-tyt," while the song varies geographically, ranging from a simple sequence in Denmark to a lower-pitched variant in North Africa. The song is an important identifier, as visual differentiation from the Common Treecreeper can be challenging.

Nesting occurs in tree crevices or behind bark, with a clutch of about six eggs laid in a twig, pine needle, or bark nest lined with softer materials. The female incubates the eggs, and both parents feed the altricial chicks until fledging.

The Short-toed Treecreeper is often confused with the Common Treecreeper, which is whiter below and has a warmer, more spotted appearance above. The North American Brown Creeper also bears a resemblance but has never been recorded in Europe.

Insects and spiders gleaned from tree bark comprise the bulk of its diet, with seeds occasionally supplementing its winter diet. It forages methodically, spiraling up tree trunks and rarely descending headfirst.

The Short-toed Treecreeper is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, with a stable and extensive range and population. It is common throughout much of its range, though rarer in some locales such as the Caucasus and Channel Islands.

Monday, 19 March 2018

18-9-2017 ADOR, VALENCIA - BLUE WINGED GRASSHOPPER (Oedipoda caerulescens)


The blue-winged grasshopper, Oedipoda caerulescens is a grasshopper in the genus Oedipoda.

This species occurs in Europe, North Africa and Asia. It was recently rediscovered in the Maltese islands.

Oedipoda caerulescens is a medium-sized grasshopper, between 15 and 21 mm for males and between 22 and 28 mm for females. The body coloration varies greatly depending on the substrate on which the animals have developed: reddish brown, gray, yellowish, or even completely dark or bright. The forewings are crossed most often by two or three pale bands, but the most striking characteristic, very visible when the insect flies away, is the bright coloration of the hind wings, a beautiful turquoise highlighted with a black marginal stripe. Furthermore, the posterior femora have a notch on their upper surface. At rest, confusion is possible with other Oedipoda species such as O. germanica.

Oedipoda caerulescens frequents dry areas with low and open vegetation: dunes, heathlands, grasslands on sand and sunlit limestone rocks. Many stations correspond to land recently used for human activities, such as coal spoil heaps, quarries and pits, the ballast of railway tracks, etc. It is exclusively a terrestrial insect, and its cryptic coloration often matches its substrate. It presses itself to the ground and remains motionless, and jumps only at the very close approach of danger. A remarkable behavior is the "hook" landing which serves to confuse potential attackers. Thus, the grasshopper lands and swings round to face the direction it has come from. The sudden disappearance of the blue hind wings of the adult makes it difficult for predators to shift quickly enough to a different kind of search to relocate the prey. The female lays her eggs in bare, dry soil. In this species, acoustic emissions are virtually nonexistent. The diet consists mainly of grasses.

20-9-2017 TANCAT DE PIPA, VALENCIA - BLUE PLUMBAGO (Plumbago auriculata)


Plumbago auriculata, the Cape leadwort, blue plumbago or Cape plumbago, is a species of flowering plant in the family Plumbaginaceae, native to South Africa and Mozambique.

The specific epithet auriculata means "with ears", referring to the shape of the leaves. ,leaf venation - reticulate

Plumbago auriculata is an evergreen shrub, often grown as a climber, ascending rapidly to 6 m (20 ft) tall by 3 m (10 ft) wide in nature, though much smaller when cultivated as a houseplant.[6] The leaves are a glossy green and grow to 5 cm (2 in) long. The stems are long, thin, and climbing. The leaves alternate and are 2–5 cm.

The corolla with five petal-like lobes is about 2 cm wide and can be pale blue, blue or violet in color. There also variations with white (P. auriculata var. alba) or deep blue (P. auriculata 'Royal Cape') flowers. The flowers are complete and bisexual, and are arranged in corymb-like racemes. The sepals and petals are connate while the pistil is adnate. The ovary of the flower is superior and the flower has regular symmetry. It has basal placentation, with 1 locule and 5 carpels. It flowers mostly in the summer, but in the right conditions it can bloom year-round.

Native to South Africa, it extends from the Southern Cape region to Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal. It can also be found in Gauteng and the adjoining areas of Free State and the North West Province. There is also an isolated occurrence in Mpumalanga. Typically the species grows in bushes or thickets. As an ornamental plant, it is widespread today in the tropics and subtropics (including the Mediterranean region).