17-4-2018 CHOBE RIVER, BOTSWANA - LONG TOED LAPWING (Vanellus crassirostris)

The long-toed lapwing, Vanellus crassirostris, also known as the long-toed plover, is a distinctive wading bird belonging to the lapwing subfamily. It is characterized by its long red legs, long toes, and a red bill with a black tip. The bird measures approximately 31 cm in length and weighs between 162–225 g. Its plumage is a mix of brown, black, and white, with no sexual dimorphism or seasonal variation. Juveniles can be identified by a browner breast and buff-tipped feathers.

Adult long-toed lapwings have a striking black and white head pattern, with short wing spurs and rounded wings. In flight, they display extensive white in the wing feathers, and their legs and feet trail beyond the tail. Juveniles retain their primary feathers post-moult and have a browner breast compared to adults.

This species is commonly found in a variety of wetland habitats, including lakes, pools, marshes, floodplains, and swamps. It is adept at foraging on floating vegetation and is often seen at the edges of pools during the dry season and in flooded fields and wet grasslands during the wet season.

The long-toed lapwing is native to central and eastern Africa, with a range extending from Chad and South Sudan in the north to Mozambique and northeast South Africa in the southeast. It has also been recorded at elevations up to 1,300 m in Zambia.

The long-toed lapwing is primarily sedentary, remaining in areas with sufficient water. It is known for its aggressive behavior towards other species that share its habitat, such as the African Jacana. The lapwing's foraging technique is unique among lapwings, as it spreads its weight on floating vegetation to hunt for aquatic invertebrates.

The vocal repertoire of the long-toed lapwing includes a metallic clicking "kick-k-k-k" and a high-pitched "wheet" when alarmed. During the breeding season, their calls become more frequent, especially when defending their territory.

Long-toed lapwings are monogamous and territorial breeders. Both sexes share responsibilities such as incubation, territory defense, and chick rearing. Nests can be found on the ground near water or on floating vegetation, with 1–4 brown or olive-colored eggs laid per clutch. Chicks are precocial and fledge around two months after hatching.

The white-crowned lapwing is the only other lapwing with extensive white wing plumage. However, the long-toed lapwing can be distinguished by its black primary flight feathers and, in the case of the nominate subspecies, black secondary feathers as well.

The long-toed lapwing forages for aquatic insects, larvae, beetles, ants, dragonfly nymphs, and snails on the surface of floating vegetation. It may forage alone or in groups, especially during the dry season, and has been observed following spur-winged geese to capitalize on disturbed prey.

17-4-2018 CHOBE RIVER, BOTSWANA - AFRICAN FISH EAGLE (Haliaeetus vocifer)

The African fish eagle, or African sea eagle, is a majestic bird of prey that graces the skies of sub-Saharan Africa. It is a symbol of national pride, being the national bird of Malawi, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. This raptor is known for its striking appearance, with a mostly brown body contrasted by a snow-white head, breast, and tail. The face is featherless and a vivid yellow, matching the color of its formidable, hooked beak, tipped in black. The African fish eagle's eyes are a deep, dark brown, and its powerful black wings carry it effortlessly over open waters.

Adult African fish eagles are unmistakable with their white heads and chests, brown bodies, and large black wings. Females are larger than males, with wingspans reaching up to 2.4 meters, compared to the 2-meter span of males. Juveniles can be identified by their overall brown plumage and paler eyes. The species exhibits sexual dimorphism, with females being heavier, weighing between 3.2 to 3.6 kilograms, while males weigh between 2.0 to 2.5 kilograms.

17-4-2018 CHOBE RIVER, BOTSWANA - COPPERY TAILED COUCAL (Centropus cupreicaudus)

The Coppery-tailed Coucal, a member of the cuckoo family, is a striking bird approximately 48 cm in length. It boasts a distinctive curved beak and a long, broad tail that is characteristic of its species. The adult's plumage is a study in contrasts, with a glossy black head and upperparts, and a contrasting white or cream underbelly. The rump glistens with a coppery sheen, while the tail is a dark brownish-black. In contrast, the immature birds display pale streaks on their heads and barred flight feathers, hinting at their youth.

When identifying the Coppery-tailed Coucal, look for its sizeable curved beak and the long tail. The adult's black and white plumage with a coppery rump is distinctive, while the immature bird can be recognized by the streaks on its head and the barring on its flight feathers. Males are marginally smaller than females, a subtle difference that may aid in identification.

This species is most commonly found in the swamplands and dense vegetation that flourish near rivers. It also inhabits inundated floodplains and areas adjacent to seasonal lakes, thriving in these wetland environments.

The Coppery-tailed Coucal's range extends across south-central Africa, from Angola in the west to southwestern Tanzania, and includes northern Botswana and the Caprivi Strip in Namibia. Its territory spans an impressive 1,750,000 square kilometers.

17-4-2018 CHOBE RIVER, BOTSWANA - AFRICAN JACANA (Actophilornis africanus)

The African Jacana, Actophilornis africanus, is a distinctive wader known for its remarkable ability to traverse floating vegetation with its elongated toes and claws. This bird exhibits a striking chestnut plumage on its upperparts, complemented by black wingtips, rear neck, and an eyestripe. Adults boast a chestnut underpart, while juveniles display a white underpart with a chestnut belly patch. A blue bill, extending into a coot-like head shield, and grey legs and toes complete its unique appearance.

To identify the African Jacana, look for its long toes and claws, which are adapted for walking on lily pads and other floating vegetation. The adult's chestnut underparts contrast with the juveniles' white underparts and chestnut belly patch. The blue bill with a frontal shield and the bird's size, ranging from 23 to 31 cm in length, are also key identification features.

The African Jacana, Actophilornis africanus, is a distinctive wader known for its remarkable ability to traverse floating vegetation with its elongated toes and claws. This bird exhibits a striking chestnut plumage on its upperparts, complemented by black wingtips, rear neck, and an eyestripe. Adults boast a chestnut underpart, while juveniles display a white underpart with a chestnut belly patch. A blue bill, extending into a coot-like head shield, and grey legs and toes complete its unique appearance.

To identify the African Jacana, look for its long toes and claws, which are adapted for walking on lily pads and other floating vegetation. The adult's chestnut underparts contrast with the juveniles' white underparts and chestnut belly patch. The blue bill with a frontal shield and the bird's size, ranging from 23 to 31 cm in length, are also key identification features.

The African Jacana thrives in shallow lakes, where it can be seen gracefully walking on floating vegetation, a habitat it prefers and is uniquely adapted to inhabit.

This species enjoys a wide distribution across sub-Saharan Africa, where it is commonly found in suitable wetland habitats.

The African Jacana is sedentary, with some seasonal dispersion. It exhibits a polyandrous mating system, where a dominant female mates with multiple males. The males are solely responsible for incubating the eggs and rearing the chicks, showcasing remarkable adaptations for parental care, such as the ability to carry chicks under their wings.

Breeding occurs throughout sub-Saharan Africa. The African Jacana lays four brown eggs marked with black, in a nest that floats amidst the vegetation. The male takes on the role of incubating the eggs and caring for the young, a testament to the species' unique breeding system.

The diet consists primarily of insects and other invertebrates, which the African Jacana deftly picks from the water's surface or from the floating vegetation it frequents.

17-4-2018 CHOBE NATIONAL PARK, BOTSWANA - SABLE ANTELOPE (Hippotragus niger)

The Sable antelope (Hippotragus niger) is an antelope which inhabits wooded savanna in East and Southern Africa. Local names for this species include swartwitpens (Afrikaans), kgama or phalafala (Sotho), mBarapi or palahala (Swahili), kukurugu, kwalat or kwalata (Tswana), ngwarati (Shona), iliza (Xhosa), impalampala (Zulu) and umtshwayeli (Ndebele).

The Sable antelope has a compact and robust build, characterized by a thick neck and tough skin. It has a well-developed and often upright mane on its neck, as well as a short mane on the throat. Its general coloration is rich chestnut to black. Females and juveniles are chestnut to dark brown, while males begin darkening and turn black after three years. However, in southern populations, females have a brown to black coat. Calves less than two months old are a light tan and show faint markings. The underparts, cheek, and chin are all white, creating a great contrast with the dark back and flanks. Long, white hairs are present below the eyes, and a wide, black stripe runs over the nose. Both sexes have ringed horns that arch backward. In females, these can reach 61-102 cm (24-40 in), while in males they are 81-165 cm (32-65 in) long.

Sable antelope live in the southern savannas of Africa from the southeastern part of Kenya, in eastern Tanzania, as well as Mozambique to Angola and in southern Zaire, mostly in the Miombo Woodland Zone. They prefer a mixture of grassland and savanna woodlands and avoid vast open lands where possible.

Sable antelope are diurnal but are less active during the heat of the day. Most antelope will travel about a mile each day, even less when it is the dry season. They live in herds numbering 10 to 30 individuals, typically females with their young with one male leader. Just a few of the most dominant mature males can obtain and hold territories, which they try to set up in the best feeding areas, because the better the feeding prospects, the more females will be attracted to the area. These animals are timid like most other antelope but will become aggressive, particularly the males, which can become dangerous if attacked or approached. When Sable antelope are threatened by predators, including lions, they confront them, using their scimitar-shaped horns. Many of these big cats have died during such fights.

Sable antelope are herbivorous (folivorous, graminivorous) animals. They are specialized browsing animals and feed upon foliage, leaves, medium-length grass, and herbs, especially those growing on termite mounds. The leaves of trees provide 90% of their diet. They also visit salt licks and have been known to chew bones to collect minerals.

Sable antelope are polygynous. Dominant males defend groups of females and their foraging territory, which can extend 300 to 500 meters from the herd. The dominant males vigorously defend the females in their harem against intruding males. The breeding season extends from May to July. The gestation period is around 9 months and a single calf is born, which is then left hidden in the bush or tall grass. The mother returns once or twice each day to suckle her young. In a couple of weeks, the calf will be strong enough to join the herd. Weaning occurs 6 months after birth. Breeding for females starts at 2.5 years old and for males at 5 years old.

17-4-2018 CHOBE NATIONAL PARK, BOTSWANA - PLAINS ZEBRA (Equus quagga)

The Plains zebra (Equus quagga, formerly Equus burchellii) is the most common and geographically widespread species of zebra. It is the most recognizable grazing animal on the African continent. Their closest relatives are donkeys and horses. The sparkling coat of zebras reflects more than 70% of incoming heat, which is likely to help them survive under the scorching African sun. Each of these animals has its own unique stripe pattern, which helps identify individuals. Additionally, the striped coat is used as ideal camouflage, allowing zebras to remain unspotted by predators in the grass.

The Plains zebra is dumpy bodied with relatively short legs and a skull with a convex forehead and a somewhat concave nose profile. The neck is thicker in males than in females. The ears are upright and have rounded tips. As with all wild equids, the Plains zebra has an erect mane along the neck and a tuft of hair at the end of the tail. It is boldly striped in black and white and no two individuals look exactly alike. Compared to other species, the Plains zebra has broader stripes. The stripes are vertical on the fore part of the body and tend towards the horizontal on the hindquarters. Northern zebra populations have narrower and more defined striping; southern populations have varied but lesser amounts of striping on the under parts, the legs, and the hindquarters. Southern populations also have brown "shadow" stripes between the black and white coloring. These are absent or poorly expressed in northern zebras. The natal coat of a foal is brown and white and the brown darkens with age.

16-4-2018 CHOBE NATIONAL PARK, BOTSWANA - NOMINATE YELLOW BILLED OXPECKER (Buphagus africanus ssp africanus)

The Yellow-billed Oxpecker, Buphagus africanus, is a passerine bird, a member of the Buphagidae family. It is a bird of the savannah, easily recognized by its strong, direct flight and the distinctive yellow and red bill in adults, with juveniles sporting a brown bill.

Adult Yellow-billed Oxpeckers measure around 20 cm in length. They exhibit plain brown upperparts and head, with buff underparts and a pale rump. The bill is a notable feature, yellow at the base and red at the tip in adults. Their feet are robust, adapted to their unique lifestyle.

This species thrives in the savannah regions of Sub-Saharan Africa, where it can be found perching on large mammals.

The Yellow-billed Oxpecker is native to Sub-Saharan Africa, ranging from Senegal east to Sudan and down to northeast South Africa. It is less common in the eastern extremes of its range.

Outside of breeding season, Yellow-billed Oxpeckers are quite sociable, forming large, chattering flocks. They have a symbiotic relationship with large mammals, feeding on the parasites found on these animals. At night, non-breeding birds may roost on their host animals.

The call of the Yellow-billed Oxpecker is a hissy, crackling "krisss, krisss," which can be heard as they go about their activities.

Breeding Yellow-billed Oxpeckers nest in tree holes, which they line with hair plucked from livestock. They lay clutches of 2-3 eggs.

The Yellow-billed Oxpecker can be confused with the Red-billed Oxpecker, but the yellow base of the bill is a distinguishing feature.

Their diet consists primarily of insects and ticks, with a particular penchant for blood. They may consume over 100 engorged female ticks or thousands of larvae in a single day. They also feed on blood directly by pecking at wounds on their host mammals.

The IUCN Red List has classified the Yellow-billed Oxpecker as Least Concern, indicating a stable population.

15-4-2018 CHOBE NATIONAL PARK, BOTSWANA - LILAC BREASTED ROLLER (Coracias caudatus)

The lilac-breasted roller (Coracias caudatus) is a member of the roller family, Coraciidae, resplendent in a panoply of pastel hues. This African bird is a sight to behold, with its lilac throat and breast, olive crown to mantle, and cheeks of lilac-rufous. The species is further adorned with long, black tail streamers, which juveniles lack. Unofficially, it is considered the national bird of Kenya.

In the field, the lilac-breasted roller is almost unmistakable. Adults boast a lilac throat that deepens into a darker lilac breast, with an olive crown and mantle. The cheeks and ear coverts are a lilac-rufous. Juveniles and immatures can be identified by their lack of tail streamers and a throat and breast of rufous-tawny with broad diffuse buffy-white streaks. The species is not sexually dimorphic, though males may be slightly larger.

The lilac-breasted roller favors open woodland and savanna, typically avoiding treeless expanses. They are often seen perched high, surveying the landscape for prey.

This species is widely distributed across Southern and Eastern Africa and is a vagrant to the southern Arabian Peninsula. It is most abundant in Kenya and can be found from sea level to elevations of 2,000 meters or more.

Lilac-breasted rollers are usually solitary or found in pairs. They are known for their aggressive defense of their nests against raptors and other birds. During the breeding season, males perform acrobatic flights, swooping and diving while emitting harsh cries.

The call is a harsh, sawing "rak rak rak," typically delivered in flight. The bird often perches to vocalize.

The lilac-breasted roller is likely monogamous, nesting solitarily. Both sexes incubate the clutch of 2–4 eggs. The nest is located in a natural hole in a tree or termite mound, and the young are altricial, becoming fully feathered after 19 days.

Their diet consists of arthropods and small vertebrates, including insects, spiders, scorpions, and small birds. They hunt from perches, swooping down to catch prey on the ground or in the air.

The IUCN lists the lilac-breasted roller as Least Concern, with a stable population size and a large range.

15-4-2018 CHOBE NATIONAL PARK, BOTSWANA - SABLE ANTELOPE (Hippotragus niger)

The Sable antelope (Hippotragus niger) is an antelope which inhabits wooded savanna in East and Southern Africa. Local names for this species include swartwitpens (Afrikaans), kgama or phalafala (Sotho), mBarapi or palahala (Swahili), kukurugu, kwalat or kwalata (Tswana), ngwarati (Shona), iliza (Xhosa), impalampala (Zulu) and umtshwayeli (Ndebele).

The Sable antelope has a compact and robust build, characterized by a thick neck and tough skin. It has a well-developed and often upright mane on its neck, as well as a short mane on the throat. Its general coloration is rich chestnut to black. Females and juveniles are chestnut to dark brown, while males begin darkening and turn black after three years. However, in southern populations, females have a brown to black coat. Calves less than two months old are a light tan and show faint markings. The underparts, cheek, and chin are all white, creating a great contrast with the dark back and flanks. Long, white hairs are present below the eyes, and a wide, black stripe runs over the nose. Both sexes have ringed horns that arch backward. In females, these can reach 61-102 cm (24-40 in), while in males they are 81-165 cm (32-65 in) long.

Sable antelope live in the southern savannas of Africa from the southeastern part of Kenya, in eastern Tanzania, as well as Mozambique to Angola and in southern Zaire, mostly in the Miombo Woodland Zone. They prefer a mixture of grassland and savanna woodlands and avoid vast open lands where possible.

15-4-2018 CHOBE NATIONAL PARK, BOTSWANA - DOUBLE BANDED SANDGROUSE (FEMALE) (Pterocles bicinctus)

The double-banded sandgrouse, Pterocles bicinctus, presents itself as a moderately-sized bird with a quail-like appearance. Its plump body is adorned with light brown plumage, featuring darker mottling and rows of whitish specks. The species is characterized by a small, pigeon-like head, elongated wings, and a lengthy tail.

Males can be readily identified by a striking black-and-white band across the forehead and a chestnut throat bordered by another black-and-white band. Both sexes boast an area of bare, yellow skin encircling the eye, while the male's beak is tinged with orange. Females are generally smaller and exhibit a more subdued brown coloration. Juveniles resemble the female in appearance.

These birds show a preference for habitats with short, trampled grass beside roads and tracks, gravel patches, tussocky grasslands, and recently burned scrub areas with emerging green shoots. They are also found beneath scattered Terminalia sericea and Burkea africana trees and within scrubby mopane woodlands.

The double-banded sandgrouse is native to southern Africa, with sightings in Angola, Botswana, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

Typically observed in small groups, these monogamous birds often form pairs or family units. They forage in dry areas during the morning and congregate near water sources in the afternoon and after dark. Their presence fluctuates seasonally, with absences noted during wetter periods.

15-4-2018 CHOBE NATIONAL PARK, BOTSWANA - DOUBLE BANDED SANDGROUSE (MALE) (Pterocles bicinctus)

The double-banded sandgrouse, Pterocles bicinctus, presents itself as a moderately-sized bird with a quail-like appearance. Its plump body is adorned with light brown plumage, featuring darker mottling and rows of whitish specks. The species is characterized by a small, pigeon-like head, elongated wings, and a lengthy tail.

Males can be readily identified by a striking black-and-white band across the forehead and a chestnut throat bordered by another black-and-white band. Both sexes boast an area of bare, yellow skin encircling the eye, while the male's beak is tinged with orange. Females are generally smaller and exhibit a more subdued brown coloration. Juveniles resemble the female in appearance.

These birds show a preference for habitats with short, trampled grass beside roads and tracks, gravel patches, tussocky grasslands, and recently burned scrub areas with emerging green shoots. They are also found beneath scattered Terminalia sericea and Burkea africana trees and within scrubby mopane woodlands.

The double-banded sandgrouse is native to southern Africa, with sightings in Angola, Botswana, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

Typically observed in small groups, these monogamous birds often form pairs or family units. They forage in dry areas during the morning and congregate near water sources in the afternoon and after dark. Their presence fluctuates seasonally, with absences noted during wetter periods.

15-4-2018 CHOBE RIVER, NAMIBIA - WOODLAND KINGFISHER (Burhinus vermiculatus)

The Woodland Kingfisher, Halcyon senegalensis, presents a striking figure with its vivid blue plumage. This medium-sized kingfisher measures approximately 23 cm in length, with adults showcasing a bright blue back, wing panel, and tail. Its head, neck, and underparts are a pristine white, contrasted by black shoulders. The flight is characterized by rapid and direct movements. A notable feature is the large bill, with a red upper mandible and a black lower mandible, while the legs and feet are a dark grey hue.

When identifying the Woodland Kingfisher, look for the dark lores that create a distinct stripe through the eye, a feature that distinguishes it from the similar Mangrove Kingfisher, whose stripe does not extend through the eye. The underwing, primaries, and secondaries are black with white underwing coverts, and the inner webs of the base of the flight feathers are white, forming an indistinct white wingbar. The breast is white, and the sexes appear similar, though juveniles are less vibrant and possess a brown bill.

The Woodland Kingfisher is found in a variety of wooded habitats with some trees, particularly Acacias. It is often seen around human habitation and prefers drier environments within traditional woodlands, sometimes at a considerable distance from water bodies.

This species is widely distributed across tropical Africa, south of the Sahara, and from Pretoria northwards. It is mostly resident near the equator, but populations in the north and south migrate towards the equatorial region during the dry season.

The Woodland Kingfisher is known for its aggressive territorial nature, even confronting humans if they intrude. It displays a remarkable wing-spreading behavior to showcase the white linings as a warning to potential threats.

Song & Calls

The call of the Woodland Kingfisher is a distinctive and loud trill, reminiscent of a nail being dragged down the teeth of a comb.

Breeding occurs in tree holes previously excavated by woodpeckers or barbets. Typically, a clutch consists of three round white eggs. Both parents are involved in caring for the young, which remain dependent for up to five weeks post-fledging. In the Transvaal region, breeding peaks between December and January.

The Woodland Kingfisher's distribution nearly always overlaps with that of the Brown-hooded Kingfisher, H. albiventris. Although similar in appearance to the Mangrove Kingfisher, the two species are largely allopatric, inhabit different environments, and have differing diets.

This kingfisher hunts from an exposed perch, often on a dead tree branch, or from a more concealed position in semi-shade.

The Woodland Kingfisher is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating a stable population without immediate threats to its survival.

15-4-2018 CHOBE RIVER, NAMIBIA - NILE MONITOR (Varanus niloticus)

The Nile monitor (Varanus niloticus) is a large member of the monitor family (Varanidae) found throughout most of Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in drier regions, and along the Nile River and its tributaries in East Africa. Additionally, there are modern, invasive populations in North America. The population found in West African forests and savannahs is sometimes recognized as a separate species, the West African Nile monitor (V. stellatus). While it is dwarfed by its larger relatives, such as the Komodo dragon, the Asian water monitor or the crocodile monitor, it is still one of the largest lizards in the world, reaching (and even surpassing) Australia’s perentie in size. Other common names include the African small-grain lizard, as well as iguana and various forms derived from it, such as guana, water leguaan or river leguaan (leguan, leguaan, and likkewaan mean monitor lizard in South African English, and can be used interchangeably).

A feral population of Nile monitors (descended from escaped or intentionally-released pets) has become established in several locations in South Florida. In addition to any illegally-released animals, it is speculated that during particularly intense hurricane seasons in Florida, many reptiles potentially escape when their enclosures are damaged or inadvertently unlocked; as Florida has a semi-tropical to tropical climate, many reptiles are housed outdoors, and poorly-secured enclosures may become damaged during bad storms. Along with Nile monitors, Florida is infamous for its feral populations of agamas, Argentine black and white tegus, Burmese pythons, green iguanas, Madagascar giant day geckos, and panther and veiled chameleons, among others. Many of these species are thought to be descendants of hurricane escapees.

16-4-2018 CHOBE RIVER, NAMIBIA - SQUACCO HERON (Ardeola ralloides)

The Squacco Heron, Ardeola ralloides, is a diminutive member of the heron family, measuring a mere 44–47 cm in length, with a compact body of 20–23 cm and a wingspan stretching 80–92 cm. This species is adorned with a buff-brown back and, during the summer months, adults boast elongated neck feathers that add to their allure.

In the field, one may identify the Squacco Heron by its stocky build, abbreviated neck, and stout bill. Its back is cloaked in a buff-brown hue. When in flight, the heron undergoes a remarkable transformation, revealing a predominantly white plumage that contrasts starkly with its resting appearance.

The Squacco Heron favors marshy wetlands in temperate regions for its habitat, where the water is warm and inviting.

15-4-2018 CHOBE RIVER, NAMIBIA - REED (LONG TAILED) CORMORANT (Microcarbo africanus)

The Reed Cormorant, also known as the Long-tailed Cormorant, is a diminutive member of the cormorant family Phalacrocoracidae. With an overall length of 50–55 cm and a wingspan stretching 80–90 cm, this bird presents a predominantly black plumage with a green gloss during the breeding season. Notably, it sports silvery wing coverts, a somewhat elongated tail, and a modest head crest. A distinctive red or yellow patch adorns its face, complemented by a yellow bill.

In breeding attire, the Reed Cormorant is resplendent in its glossy greenish-black plumage. The non-breeding adults and juveniles, however, exhibit a browner hue and a white underbelly. Some southern populations maintain their crest throughout the year. Both sexes are similar in appearance, making them indistinguishable in the field.

The Reed Cormorant is quite adaptable, making its home in a variety of freshwater wetlands and tranquil coastal environments.

This species is widespread and common, inhabiting inland and coastal regions across Sub-Saharan Africa and Madagascar. It is a resident bird, though it may engage in some seasonal movements.

An adept diver, the Reed Cormorant often forages in shallow waters, occasionally diving to impressive depths. It has a predilection for small, slow-moving fish with elongated bodies, such as mormyrids, catfishes, and cichlids, but will also consume soles, frogs, aquatic invertebrates, and occasionally small birds. Prey is typically brought to the surface before consumption.

The Reed Cormorant's nesting habits are quite private, with nests typically concealed by long grasses either in trees or on the ground. Clutches usually consist of two to four eggs.

The Reed Cormorant could potentially be confused with other cormorant species, but its smaller size, long tail, and the coloration of its face patch and bill are distinguishing features.

The diet of the Reed Cormorant is primarily piscivorous, focusing on fish that match its preferred size and shape. However, its diet can be quite varied depending on local availability.

The IUCN Red List categorizes the Reed Cormorant as Least Concern, indicating that, at present, there are no significant threats to its population numbers.

16-4-2018 CHOBE RIVER, NAMIBIA - SOUTHERN RED BILLED HORNBILL (Tockus rufirostris)

The Southern red-billed hornbill, Tockus rufirostris, is a distinguished member of the Bucerotidae family, gracing the savannas and drier bushlands of southern Africa with its presence. This bird is characterized by its striking red bill and the streaks of blackish plumage that extend from its ear coverts down the side of its neck.

Upon observing this species, one will note the sexual dimorphism where males are generally larger with slightly longer bills. The male's lower mandible may exhibit varying degrees of black pigmentation. Both sexes boast a yellow iris surrounded by pale orbital skin, ranging from pink to greyish hues. The throat is a pristine white, and the wing coverts are adorned with conspicuous spots.

The Southern red-billed hornbill is a native inhabitant of the savannas and dryer bushlands, thriving in these open environments where it can forage and nest.

This hornbill's range extends from Malawi and Zambia to southern Angola, northeastern Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, eastern Eswatini, and northern South Africa, including Transvaal and northern KZN province. It is also found in the upper Zambezi valley of Mozambique, though it is mostly absent from the eastern lowlands.

15-4-2018 CHOBE RIVER, NAMIBIA - AFRICAN PIED KINGFISHER (Ceryle rudis ssp rudis)

The pied kingfisher (Ceryle rudis) is a striking water kingfisher, known for its black and white plumage and distinctive crest. It is a medium-sized bird, approximately 25 cm in length, with a white face featuring a black mask and a white supercilium. The male is characterized by a double band across the breast, while the female sports a single, often broken, breast band.

When identifying the pied kingfisher, look for its unique black and white barred pattern and prominent crest. The male's double breast band and the female's single broken band are key differentiators between the sexes. The subspecies vary slightly in size and coloration, with some having larger bills or reduced white in their plumage.

This kingfisher is commonly found perched along the edges of clear lakes and rivers, where it can easily spot and dive for fish.

The pied kingfisher is widely distributed across sub-Saharan Africa and southern Asia, from Turkey to India and China. It is a resident species, with most populations not engaging in long migrations.

The pied kingfisher is often seen bobbing its head and flicking its tail while perched. It is a sociable bird, known to form large roosts at night. Its flight is direct and rapid, sometimes reaching speeds close to 50 km/h.

30-4-2018 BONAIRE, 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.

30-4-2018 BONAIRE, VALENCIA - EURASIAN MAGPIE (Pica pica)

The Eurasian magpie, or common magpie (Pica pica), is a striking bird that graces the northern reaches of the Eurasian continent. It is a member of the crow family, known as corvids, and is part of the "monochrome" magpie group within the Holarctic radiation. The bird is easily recognized by its black and white plumage and long, iridescent tail.

Adult Eurasian magpies measure 44–46 cm in length, with over half of this being the tail. They have a wingspan of 52–62 cm. The head, neck, and breast are glossy black with a metallic sheen of green and violet, while the belly and scapulars are pure white. The wings are black with green or purple gloss, and the primaries have white inner webs. The tail is black with green and reddish-purple gloss. Both sexes have similar plumage, though females are slightly smaller.

The Eurasian magpie favors open countryside with scattered trees, avoiding dense forests and treeless areas. It adapts well to suburban environments, including parks and gardens, and can be found in city centers.

This magpie's range spans temperate Eurasia from the western edges of Portugal and Spain to the eastern limits of the Kamchatka Peninsula.

The Eurasian magpie is known for its intelligence, comparable to that of great apes. It is monogamous, with pairs often remaining together across seasons. They are sedentary, though northern populations may move south in severe weather.

The magpie's call is a distinctive "chac-chac" or a repetitive "chac-chac-chac-chac." Young birds emit a similar call and a high-pitched "Uik Uik," which can resemble a small dog's bark.

Magpies typically breed after their first year. They build large, domed nests in tall trees, laying clutches of five to six pale blue-green eggs, which are incubated for 21–22 days. The chicks are altricial and fledge at around 27 days, with parental care continuing for several weeks.

Omnivorous, the Eurasian magpie's diet includes young birds, eggs, small mammals, insects, carrion, acorns, grain, and other plant matter.

With an extensive range and stable population trends in Europe, the Eurasian magpie is classified by the IUCN as Least Concern. Estimates suggest a total population of 46 to 228 million individuals globally.

30-4-2018 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - SARDINIAN WARBLER (MALE) (Sylvia melanocephala)

The Sardinian warbler, Curruca melanocephala, presents itself as a charming and distinctive bird of the Mediterranean. The males are adorned with a sleek grey back and pristine whitish underparts, crowned with a striking black head, a pure white throat, and captivating red eyes. The females, on the other hand, exhibit a more subdued palette, with brown upperparts and buff underparts, complemented by a subtle grey head.

When attempting to identify the Sardinian warbler, look for the male's black head and red eyes, which contrast with the white throat and grey back. Females can be recognized by their brown and buff coloration with a greyish head. The variability in plumage, including the presence or absence of a reddish hue, can be a helpful clue in distinguishing between subspecies.

This typical warbler favors open landscapes and cultivated areas, where it can find bushes suitable for nesting. Its preference for such environments makes it a familiar sight in the Mediterranean countryside.

The Sardinian warbler is a resident of the southernmost regions of Europe, extending its range into Asia in Turkey and the eastern Mediterranean. While not extensively migratory, some individuals do venture to North Africa for the winter, and the species has been known to appear as a vagrant as far as Great Britain.

15-4-2018 CHOBE RIVER, NAMIBIA - LILAC BREASTED ROLLER (Coracias caudatus)

The lilac-breasted roller (Coracias caudatus) is a member of the roller family, Coraciidae, resplendent in a panoply of pastel hues. This African bird is a sight to behold, with its lilac throat and breast, olive crown to mantle, and cheeks of lilac-rufous. The species is further adorned with long, black tail streamers, which juveniles lack. Unofficially, it is considered the national bird of Kenya.

In the field, the lilac-breasted roller is almost unmistakable. Adults boast a lilac throat that deepens into a darker lilac breast, with an olive crown and mantle. The cheeks and ear coverts are a lilac-rufous. Juveniles and immatures can be identified by their lack of tail streamers and a throat and breast of rufous-tawny with broad diffuse buffy-white streaks. The species is not sexually dimorphic, though males may be slightly larger.

The lilac-breasted roller favors open woodland and savanna, typically avoiding treeless expanses. They are often seen perched high, surveying the landscape for prey.

This species is widely distributed across Southern and Eastern Africa and is a vagrant to the southern Arabian Peninsula. It is most abundant in Kenya and can be found from sea level to elevations of 2,000 meters or more.

Lilac-breasted rollers are usually solitary or found in pairs. They are known for their aggressive defense of their nests against raptors and other birds. During the breeding season, males perform acrobatic flights, swooping and diving while emitting harsh cries.

The call is a harsh, sawing "rak rak rak," typically delivered in flight. The bird often perches to vocalize.

The lilac-breasted roller is likely monogamous, nesting solitarily. Both sexes incubate the clutch of 2–4 eggs. The nest is located in a natural hole in a tree or termite mound, and the young are altricial, becoming fully feathered after 19 days.

Their diet consists of arthropods and small vertebrates, including insects, spiders, scorpions, and small birds. They hunt from perches, swooping down to catch prey on the ground or in the air.

The IUCN lists the lilac-breasted roller as Least Concern, with a stable population size and a large range.

15-4-2018 CHOBE RIVER, NAMIBIA - GREATER KUDU (Tragelaphus Strepsiceros)

The Greater kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros) is a woodland antelope found in Africa. Despite occupying such widespread territory, Greater kudus are sparsely populated in most areas due to declining habitat, deforestation, and poaching.

Greater kudus have a narrow body with long legs, and their coats can range from brown/bluish-grey to reddish-brown. They possess between 4 and 12 vertical white stripes along their torso. The head is usually darker in color than the rest of the body and exhibits a small white v-shaped mark that runs between the eyes. Bulls tend to be much larger than cows, and vocalize much more; they also have beards running along their throats and large horns with two and a half twists.

The range of Greater kudu extends from the east in Ethiopia, Tanzania, Eritrea, and Kenya into the south where they are found in Zambia, Angola, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. Other regions where they occur are the Central African Republic, Chad, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Malawi, Mozambique, Somalia, Swaziland, and Uganda. These antelopes live in mixed scrub woodlands and bush on abandoned fields and degraded pastures, mopane bush, and acacia in lowlands, hills, and mountains. They will occasionally venture onto plains only if there is a large abundance of bushes but normally avoid such open areas to avoid becoming an easy target for their predators.

Greater kudus are social animals that live in groups within their home areas. Females usually form small groups of 6-10 with their offspring, but sometimes they can form a herd of up to 20 individuals. Male kudus may form small bachelor groups, but they are more commonly found as solitary and widely dispersed individuals. Solitary males will join the group of females and calves only during the mating season. Home ranges of maternal herds can overlap with other maternal herds while home ranges of adult males generally encompass the ranges of two or three female groups. Greater kudus may be active throughout the 24-hour day. During the day, they normally cease to be active and instead seek cover under woodland, especially during hot days. They feed and drink in the early morning and late afternoon, acquiring water from waterholes or roots and bulbs that have high water content. When a herd is threatened by predators, an adult (usually female) will issue a bark to alert the rest of the herd. Greater kudus communicate using many other vocalizations, including low grunts, clucks, humming, and gasping.

Greater kudus are polygynous meaning that one male mates with more than one female. They breed at the end of the rainy season, which can fluctuate slightly according to the region and climate. Before mating, there is a courtship ritual that consists of the male standing in front of the female and often engaging in a neck wrestling. The male then trails the female while issuing a low-pitched call. Gestation takes around 240 days and calving generally starts between February and March, when the grass tends to be at its highest. Females usually bear one calf, although occasionally there may be two. The pregnant female will leave her group to give birth; once she gives birth, the newborn is hidden in vegetation for about 4 to 5 weeks (to avoid predation). After 4 or 5 weeks, the calf will accompany its mother for short periods of time; then by 3 to 4 months of age, it will accompany her at all times. By the time it is 6 months old, the calf is quite independent of its mother. Female Greater kudus reach reproductive maturity at 15-21 months of age while males reach maturity when they are 21-24 months old.