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

The "Cape gull" refers to the South African population of the kelp gull (Larus dominicanus vetula or Larus vetula). It is also sometimes treated as a separate species from the kelp gull. The Cape gull is distinguished by its darker iris, larger size, and shorter bill compared to other kelp gulls. 

While often considered a subspecies (L. d. vetula) of the kelp gull, some propose it should be classified as a separate species, L. vetula. 

Distinguishing features:

Size and Bill: Cape gulls are generally larger than other kelp gulls, with a more robust body and a shorter, more angular bill. 

Iris: The iris (colored part of the eye) is darker than in other kelp gulls. 

Plumage: Adults have black backs and wings, white underparts, and a yellow bill with a red spot. Juveniles have mottled brown plumage, a black bill, and a dark tail band. 

 

The Cape gull is found along the coasts of South Africa and is estimated to have around 11,000 breeding pairs, with a growing population. 

 

They are largely sedentary, often congregating in large colonies at favored coastal areas. Cape gulls are known to converge at popular feeding sites and can be aggressive predators. 

 

The Cape gull population is considered stable and potentially expanding. 

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.

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.

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.

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).

18-9-2017 ADOR, VALENCIA - LARGE PSAMMODROMUS LIZARD (Psammodromus algirus)

Psammodromus algirus, known commonly as the Algerian psammodromus, the Algerian sand racer, and the large psammodromus, is a species of lizard in the family Lacertidae. The species is endemic to western Europe and northwestern Africa.

P. algirus commonly reaches a length of about 10 to 15 cm.

P. algirus commonly reaches a snout–vent length of about 7.5 cm (3.0 in), occasionally 9 cm (3.5 in). The tail is 2–3 times the body length. Dorsal colouration is usually metallic brownish with a pair of conspicuous white or yellowish stripes on both sides.

Psammodromus algirus is found in Algeria, France, Gibraltar, Italy, Morocco, Portugal, Spain, and Tunisia.

The natural habitats of P. algirus are temperate forests, Mediterranean-type shrubby vegetation, sandy shores, arable land, pastureland, plantations, and rural gardens. (Miras et al. 2005)

Psammodromus algirus mainly feeds on terrestrial arthropods, specifically Orthoptera, Formicidae, Coleoptera, Hemiptera, and Araneae.

P. algirus typically occurs in dense bushy vegetation, but it can also venture to more open areas. It can be found at elevations up to 2,600 m (8,500 ft) above sea level, but it is more common at lower elevations.

P. algirus is threatened by habitat loss.

P. algirus commonly reaches a snout–vent length of about 7.5 cm (3.0 in), occasionally 9 cm (3.5 in). The tail is 2–3 times the body length. Dorsal colouration is usually metallic brownish with a pair of conspicuous white or yellowish stripes on both sides.

18-9-2017 ADOR, VALENCIA - COMMON DARTER DRAGONFLY (FEMALE) (Sympetrum striolatum)

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

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

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

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

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

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

18-9-2017 ADOR, VALENCIA - BRIGHTFIG TRIBE (Tribe Ruschieae)

Ruschieae is a tribe of plants with 145860 observations

18-9-2017 ADOR, VALENCIA - COMMON GERANIUM BRONZE BUTTERFLY (Cacyreus marshalli)

The geranium bronze or brun des pélargoniums in French (Cacyreus marshalli), is a butterfly in the family Lycaenidae.

The geranium bronze butterfly is native to South Africa. The butterfly was first introduced to Europe in the late 20th century, where it has quickly spread to many southern and eastern European regions. Since its introduction to Europe, the geranium bronze butterfly has become a pest to cultivated Pelargonium and Geranium plant species. Currently, efforts are being made to contain the spread of the geranium bronze butterflies as well as to determine the most effective pesticide for the species.

The adult geranium bronze butterfly's wingspan ranges from 15–23 mm in males and 18–23 mm in females. The wings are brown/bronze with a white border outlining the wings. The underside is a grey-brown with darker bands interlaced with white, creating an intricate pattern. The hindwings contain an eye spot in order to divert predators from attacking. The male and female are similar in appearance.

The geranium bronze was first recorded in regions of South Africa, including KwaZulu-Natal and the Cape Provinces, as well as in neighbouring countries such as Eswatini, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Lesotho, and Mozambique. It was accidentally brought to Europe in 1978. After being recorded in England, a colony of geranium bronze was soon found in Mallorca in 1990, and has since spread to most of the regions in southern Europe. In 1996, the geranium bronze butterfly was first recorded in Rome, Italy, and rapidly spread along the Adriatic and Tyrrhenian coastal areas before extending inland. The geranium bronze butterfly now has established colonies in Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands, Italy, France, Greece, Malta, Spain, Portugal, southern Switzerland, Slovenia, Croatia, and the French Mediterranean. The first record of the species in Palestine was made in the garden of the Palestine Museum of Natural History.

Adults are on wing year-round in warmer areas, but usually from August to May in South Africa. At higher altitudes, adults are on wing in December and January.

Geranium bronze have spread from their native regions of South Africa to numerous southern and eastern European regions. This was likely due to accidental transportation of plants infested with geranium bronze larvae and not due to any natural migration patterns. The geranium bronze butterflies fly for short periods of time and frequently rest.

17-9-2017 PEGO MARJAL, ALICANTE - EURASIAN KESTREL (Falco tinnunculus)

The common kestrel, Falco tinnunculus, is a bird of prey from the kestrel group within the falcon family Falconidae. It is also known as the European kestrel, Eurasian kestrel, or Old World kestrel. In the United Kingdom, it is often simply referred to as the "kestrel." This raptor is small compared to other birds of prey but larger than most songbirds, with long wings and a distinctive long tail.

Males and females exhibit sexual dimorphism in their plumage. The male has a blue-grey cap and tail with a black tip bordered by a narrow white rim. Its back is chestnut with black spots, and the underside is buff with black streaks. The female is larger and lacks the blue-grey coloring, having a brown back with black bars and a similar underside to the male. Both sexes have a prominent black malar stripe, bright yellow cere, feet, and eye-ring, with dark toenails, bill, and iris.

The common kestrel favors open habitats such as fields, heaths, shrubland, and marshland. It does not require woodland but needs alternative perching and nesting sites like rocks or buildings. It thrives in treeless steppes and can adapt to human settlements and various landscapes, from wetlands to arid savannas.

This species has a vast range, being widespread in Europe, Asia, and Africa, and occasionally reaching the east coast of North America. It has colonized some oceanic islands, though vagrant individuals are generally rare.

The common kestrel is diurnal and can be sedentary or migratory, depending on the region. It is known for its characteristic hunting behavior, hovering 10-20 meters above the ground before diving steeply onto prey. It is also capable of seeing ultraviolet light, which aids in detecting the urine trails of small mammals.

Breeding occurs in spring or the start of the dry season, with the kestrel preferring cavity nests in cliffs, trees, or buildings. Clutches typically consist of 3-7 eggs, which are incubated by both parents. The young fledge after 4-5 weeks and stay with the family for a short period thereafter.

18-4-2018 OKAVANGO DELTA, BOTSWANA - WATERBUCK (FEMALE) (Genus Geigeria)

The waterbuck is the largest amongst the six species of Kobus. It is a sexually dimorphic antelope, with the males nearly 7% taller than females and around 8% longer. The head-and-body length is typically 177–235 cm (70–93 in) and the typical height is 120–136 cm (47–54 in). Males reach approximately 127 cm (50 in) at the shoulder, while females reach 119 cm (47 in). The waterbuck is one of the heaviest antelopes. A newborn typically weighs 13.6 kg (30 lb), and growth in weight is faster in males than in females. Males typically weigh 198–262 kg (437–578 lb) and females 161–214 kg (355–472 lb). The tail is 22–45 cm (8.7–17.7 in) long.

The waterbuck has a robust build. The shaggy coat is reddish brown to grey, and becomes progressively darker with age. Males are darker than females. Though apparently thick, the hair is sparse on the coat. The hair on the neck is, however, long and shaggy. When sexually excited, the skin of the waterbuck secretes a greasy substance with the odour of musk (sebum), giving it the name "greasy kob". The odor of this is so unpleasant that it repels predators. This secretion also assists in water-proofing the body when the animal dives into water. The facial features include a white muzzle and light eyebrows and lighter insides of the ears. A cream-coloured patch (called "bib") is on the throat. Waterbuck are characterised by a long neck and short, strong, black legs. Females have two nipples. Preorbital glands, foot glands, and inguinal glands are absent.

14-8-2017 AMSTERDAM ZOO, NETHERLANDS - ISABELLA'S LONGWING BUTTERFLY (Eueides isabella)

Eueides isabella, the Isabella's longwing or Isabella's heliconian, is a species of nymphalid butterfly, belonging to the Heliconiinae subfamily.

Eueides isabella is a large butterfly with a wingspan of 65–90 millimetres (2.6–3.5 in). The uppersides of the wings is dark brown, with orange bands and yellowish markings on the edges of the forewings. The undersides of the wings are quite similar to the uppersides, but the edges of the hindwings show a series of small blue spots.

The flight period extends to the whole year in the tropical habitat. They are active even in low light. Caterpillars are white and black covered by long black spines. They are gregarious and they primarily feed on Passiflora platyloba and Passiflora ambigua.

This species can be found from Mexico to the Amazon basin and the West Indies.

Eueides isabella lives in the rainforest where it remains in the canopy. It can be found from sea level to about 1500 m above sea level.

Subspecies

E. i. isabella (French Guiana, Suriname, Trinidad)

E. i. arquata Stichel, 1903 (Colombia)

E. i. cleobaea Geyer, 1832 (Cuba, Puerto Rico, Central America)

E. i. dianasa (Hübner, [1806])

E. i. dissoluta Stichel, 1903 (Perú, Ecuador)

E. i. dynastes C. et R. Felder, 1861 (Venezuela, Colombia)

E. i. ecuadorensis Strand, 1909 (Ecuador)

E. i. eva (Fabricius, 1793) (Mexico, Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama)

E. i. hippolinus Butler, 1873 (Peru)

E. i. huebneri Ménétriés, 1857 (Colombia)

E. i. melphis (Godart, 1819) (Haití, Antilles)

E. i. nigricornis Maza, 1982 (Brazil)

E. i. subspecies (Brazil)

14-8-2017 AMSTERDAM ZOO, NETHERLANDS - CYDNO LONGWING BUTTERFLY (Heliconius cydno)

Heliconius cydno, the cydno longwing, is a nymphalid butterfly that ranges from Mexico to northern South America. It is typically found in the forest understory and deposits its eggs on a variety of plants of the genus Passiflora. It is a member of the Heliconiinae subfamily of Central and South America, and it is the only heliconiine that can be considered oligophagous. H. cydno is also characterized by hybridization and Müllerian mimicry. Wing coloration plays a key role in mate choice and has further implications in regards to sympatric speciation. Macrolide scent gland extracts and wing-clicking behavior further characterize this species.

H. cydno ranges from southern Mexico to western Ecuador in northern South America. H. cydno is considered to be non-migratory, or sedentary. H. cydno lives in closed-forest habitats, specifically in the forest understories. They live at elevations from sea level to 2000 meters. Their most common host plants are in the genus Passiflora, and at night, adults roost in twigs or tendrils from two to ten meters above the forest floor. Males generally tend to fly higher than females, who are found lower in the forest understory.

In an experiment by Mirian Medina Hay-Roe and Richard W. Mankin, field-collected H. cydno females were found to produce wing clicks when interacting with members of the same species. Wing clicks are made in short sequences of three to ten clicks, at a speed of approximately ten clicks per second. They demonstrated this behavior during the day and at roosting time, when individuals came close to one another so as to almost touch one another's head or wings. This behavior was also observed during aggressive interactions with H. erato females. When an experimental group of H. cydno were moved to a greenhouse and allowed to reproduce, the first generation of adults born in the greenhouses did not demonstrate wing-clicking behavior. The frequency of wing clicking peaked at 1075 Hz, which is close to the 1200-Hz frequency peak of auditory sensitivity in H. erato. This further suggests that communication both between and within species may be facilitated through this behavior.

4-8-2017 AMSTERDAM ZOO, NETHERLANDS - PALE OWL BUTTERFLY (Caligo telamonius)

The Giant Owl or Pale Owl Butterfly (Caligo telamonius) is a brush-footed butterfly (family Nymphalidae). The species was first described by Cajetan von Felder and Rudolf Felder in 1862. It is found in southern North America, Central America, and South America.

Commonly known as the Giant Owl or Pale Owl butterfly, so named because of its large eye-like marking on the verso .

Subspecies

Two subspecies belong to the species Caligo telamonius:

Caligo telamonius memnon

Caligo telamonius menus

Caligo telamonius 

Pale Owl-butterfly

Familia: Nymphalidae

Orden: Lepidoptera

Clase: Insecta

Filo / División: Arthropoda

Reino: Animalia

Taxonomy Identification: Family Nymphalidae, sub-family Brassolidae. First named by Felder in 1867

Colour: The topside (recto) wings are brown edged in black lines with a large central patch of deep blueish purple. The underside (verso) is coloured shades of brown and black with intricate pencil lines patterns in black with large “owlet” markings.

Size: Wingspan 100-140mm

14-8-2017 AMSTERDAM ZOO, NETHERLANDS - INCA TERN (MALE) (Larosterna inca)

The Inca tern is one of the world’s most beautiful and interesting birds. It occurs along the Pacific Coast from northern Peru to central Chile. This bird is easily recognizable with its dark gray body, and red-orange beak and claws, and its lovely white moustache. It is an adept flier that swoops and hovers before it dives after its prey. It sometimes plucks pieces of fish out from between sea lions’ teeth. Unfortunately, their populations are declining quickly because of the loss of nesting sites. They have been included in the “close to vanishing species” category. Inca terns in the wild live up to 14 years and in captivity up to 20 years.

The Inca tern is a large tern, approximately 40 cm (16 in) long. Sexes are similar; the adult is mostly slate-grey with white restricted to the facial plumes and the trailing edges of the wings. The large bill and legs are dark red. Immature birds are purple-brown, and gradually develop the facial plumes.

The Inca tern is a diurnal, gregarious species, living and nesting in large colonies numbering several thousand birds, often close to gull colonies. Inca terns follow fishing boats and often associate with whales and sea lions when feeding, stealing food from these fellow marine mammals. Inca terns feed by plunge-diving from a height, after a brief flight above their prey, or by surface-dipping, whereby they swim or sit on the water and pick up prey from the surface. They are not strong swimmers, as their webbed feet are not big enough. Inca terns remain resident within their range, though non-breeding birds sometimes move, depending on food resources.

14-8-2017 AMSTERDAM ZOO, NETHERLANDS - JAPANESE MACAQUE (Macaca fuscata)

The Japanese macaque (Macaca fuscata) is a terrestrial Old World monkey species. Colloquially, they are referred to as "snow monkeys" because some live in areas where snow covers the ground for months each year - no other non-human primate is more northern-living, nor lives in a colder climate. In Japan, these monkeys are known as Nihonzaru (Nihon "Japan" + saru "monkey") to distinguish them from other primates, but Japanese macaques are very familiar in Japan, so when Japanese people simply say saru, they usually have in mind the Japanese macaque.

Japanese macaques have a pinkish face and posterior. The rest of their body is covered in brown or greyish hair. Their coat is well-adapted to the cold and its thickness increases as temperatures decrease. The macaque can cope with temperatures as low as −20 °C (−4 °F). Macaques mostly move on all fours and are known to leap.

Japanese macaques are found on three of the four main Japanese islands: Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu. They inhabit subtropical forests in the southern part of their range and subarctic forests in mountainous areas in the northern part of their range. They can be found in both warm and cool forests, such as the deciduous forests of central and northern Japan and the broadleaf evergreen forests in the southwest of the islands.

Japanese macaques live in groups of 20-30, led by the dominant male. Females stay in their birth group for life, but males leave the group before sexual maturity. Females spend more of their time in trees, while males spend most of their time on the ground. The dominant male has a role in siring young, deciding where the troop should go, and protecting the troop from predators and other macaque troops. Japanese macaques feel at home both in trees and on the ground. Females spend more time in the trees and males spend more time on the ground. They are very good swimmers, being able to swim over half a kilometer, and are known to leap. During feeding or moving, Japanese macaques often emit "coos". These most likely serve to keep the troop together and strengthen social relations between females. Coos are also uttered before grooming along with "girney" calls. Japanese macaques also have alarm calls for alerting to danger, and threat calls heard during aggressive encounters.

6-8-2017 RIVER DANUBE, PASSAU - MUTE SWAN (Cygnus olor)

The mute swan (Cygnus olor) is a species of swan and a member of the waterfowl family Anatidae. It is native to much of Eurasia, and (as a rare winter visitor) the far north of Africa. It is an introduced species in North America, home to the largest populations outside of its native range, with additional smaller introductions in Australasia and southern Africa. The name "mute" derives from it being less vocal than other swan species.

Measuring 125 to 160 cm (49 to 63 in) in length, this large swan is wholly white in plumage with an orange beak bordered with black. It is recognisable by its pronounced knob atop the beak, which is larger in males.

The mute swan is found naturally mainly in temperate areas of Europe, then across the Palearctic as far east as Primorsky Krai, near Sidemi.

It is partially migratory throughout northern latitudes in Europe and Asia, as far south as North Africa and the Mediterranean. It is known and recorded to have nested in Iceland and is a vagrant in that area as well as in Bermuda, according to the UN Environment Programme chart of international status chart of bird species, which places it in 70 countries, breeding in 49 countries, and vagrant in 16 countries. While most of the current population in Japan is introduced, mute swans are depicted on scrolls more than 1,000 years old, and wild birds from the mainland Asian population still occur rarely in winter. Natural migrants to Japan usually occur along with whooper and sometimes Bewick's swans.

The mute swan is protected in most of its range, but this has not prevented illegal hunting and poaching. It is often kept in captivity outside its natural range, as a decoration for parks and ponds, and escapes have happened. The descendants of such birds have become naturalised in the eastern United States and Great Lakes, much as the Canada goose has done in Europe.

6-8-2017 RIVER DANUBE, PASSAU - COMMON RAVEN (Corvus corax)

The common raven (Corvus corax) is a large all-black passerine bird. It is the most widely distributed of all corvids, found across the Northern Hemisphere. It is a raven known by many names at the subspecies level; there are at least eight subspecies with little variation in appearance, although recent research has demonstrated significant genetic differences among populations from various regions. It is one of the two largest corvids, alongside the thick-billed raven, and is possibly the heaviest passerine bird; at maturity, the common raven averages 63 centimetres (25 inches) in length and 1.47 kilograms (3.2 pounds) in mass. Although their typical lifespan is considerably shorter, common ravens can live more than 23 years in the wild. Young birds may travel in flocks but later mate for life, with each mated pair defending a territory.

Common ravens have coexisted with humans for thousands of years and in some areas have been so numerous that people have regarded them as pests. Part of their success as a species is due to their omnivorous diet; they are extremely versatile and opportunistic in finding sources of nutrition, feeding on carrion, insects, cereal grains, berries, fruit, small animals, nesting birds, and food waste. Some notable feats of problem-solving provide evidence that the common raven is unusually intelligent.

Over the centuries, the raven has been the subject of mythology, folklore, art, and literature. In many cultures, including the indigenous cultures of Scandinavia, ancient Ireland and Wales, Bhutan, the northwest coast of North America, and Siberia and northeast Asia, the common raven has been revered as a spiritual figure or godlike creature.

22-4-2016 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - COAL TIT (Periparus ater)

The Coal tit (Periparus ater) is a small passerine bird widespread and common resident breeder throughout the temperate to subtropical Palearctic, including North Africa.

The Coal tit has a distinctive large white nape spot on its black head. The head, throat, and neck of the adult are glossy blue-black, setting off the off-white sides of the face (tinged grey to yellow depending on subspecies) and the brilliant white nape; the white tips of the wing coverts appear as two wingbars. The underparts are whitish shading through buff to rufous on the flanks. The bill is black, the legs lead-colored, and the irides dark brown. The young birds are duller than the adults, lacking gloss on the black head, and with the white of nape and cheeks tinged with yellow.

Coal tits are found throughout Europe, Asia, and North Africa. They are all-year residents throughout almost all range, making only local movements in response to particularly severe weather; only the Siberian birds have a more regular migration. Coal tits prefer humid conifer forests but also frequent shrubland, conifer plantations, gardens, and urban areas.

Coal tits are social birds and often form small flocks in winter with other tits. They resemble other tits in acrobatic skill and restless activity, though they more frequently pitch on a trunk, and in little hops resemble a treecreeper. Coal tits are active during the day spending most of their time searching for food trees. They also visit gardens to feed on a variety of foods put out, particularly sunflower seeds. While searching for food, Coal tit flocks keep contact with incessant short 'dee' or 'see-see' calls. Their song is a strident 'if-he, if-he, if-he', heard most frequently from January to June, but also in autumn. The song resembles that of the Great tit, but much faster and higher in pitch. North African birds also have a 'currr' call similar to that of the European crested tit which is not found in Africa.