Observations by clr1985

Atypical Guinea Fowl with Distinct Morphology

Location: A farm near Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (-27.815778, 29.920178)

Image Quality Note:

It is pertinent to note that the visual evidence accompanying this observation comprises images of variable quality, captured under less than ideal conditions. The photographs were taken at a distance, and the birds were in motion, which has affected the clarity and detail that can be discerned. Despite these limitations, the images have been digitally enhanced to aid in the identification process. The consistent morphological traits observed across these images have been deemed significant enough to warrant this record, with the understanding that such documentation may prompt further, more rigorous photographic or videographic capture in the future for detailed analysis. The quality of the images, though not optimal, does not detract from the distinctiveness of the observed traits and the potential importance of this sighting within the ecological context.

NOTES:

This observation details the presence of two white guinea fowl with an unusual morphology, observed within a flock of the common Helmeted Guinea Fowl (Numida meleagris). Both white birds exhibit a unique bodily form, characterized by an elongated neck and upright posture, similar in shape to that of an "ibis". In addition to the leucistic individuals, another bird with standard dark plumage but a similar body form was noted within the flock.

Behavioural Notes:

The two white birds, despite their likeness, were often seen maintaining a significant distance not only from the main flock but also from each other, typically around 50-100 meters. This consistent behaviour across multiple sightings could suggest social dynamics affected by their unique appearance or other unknown factors.

Habitat:

The environment consists of typical grassland savanna interspersed with trees, adjacent to a gravel road, which is in keeping with the preferred habitat of guinea fowl species in this region of South Africa.

Additional Notes:

All birds were part of a flock numbering between 11-13 individuals.

The flock has been observed multiple times, with the distance pattern remaining consistent.

Has anyone ever seen these caterpillars devouring cussonia trees to this extent?

There are quite a few trees on the farm that appear to have died, entirely, this year.

I grew up in this area, and have returned to the farm, annually, over the last two decades.

Yet, I have never seen anything like this.

Slugging away at Bonatea plants: To cut the worms or not?

So, at the risk of over-extending my public engagement with the bonatea sp. on our farm, I thought I would share this new observation. I have located about 50 plants on the farm so far, all of which have been growing within an area of approximately 10 acres. I will compose a distribution map soon, as it has been inserting to see how they have tended to cluster in this one particular area of the farm. Contrary to the literature I have consulted on this sp., I have observed a number of plants growing in direct sunlight, and these are the ones that are flowering at present, and seem to have developed much more rapidly than those that are growing in deep shade.
It is also interesting to note that I have successfully transplanted four plants that were at risk of being destroyed by the construction of a new shed. They are all thriving, as you will see from the plant in the little video clip that I produced, which I put into a pot about 2 weeks ago.
However, what I discovered yesterday was quite disturbing! As you will see from these pictures, a cluster of plants, again growing in direct sunlight, and practically from within a euphorbia pulvinata (perhaps this provided enough shade for the initial growth stages?), was being utterly annihilated by an army of slugs/cut worms! Does anyone know if this is 'normal'?
I have never seen these slugs/worms before, so have no idea whether they are alien terrorists or simply performing a natural and useful biological function? Nonetheless, I did wonder whether I should destroy these plants (and the slugs), or possibly send them to a lab for analysis.
Any ideas, comments, suggestions?

The mystery solved? Bonatea antennifera ?

For those who have been following the great mystery tale about the orchids on our farm...we finally have one in flower! (See previous posts: http://www.ispotnature.org/node/770908). Interestingly, I had not noticed this particular plant before, and it is the only plant I have ever seen that is growing in direct sunlight, whereas 99% of the other plants are in deep shade, with 1% growing in semi-shaded areas. So, whilst I guess we still can't be 100% certain about the original specimen (which looks like it will flower any day now), I am quite sure that it will be the same species...Bonatea antennifera, as far as I can tell. It was such an amazing moment for me, as I have been so excited about this discovery! Quite a profound experience photographing this magnificent plant as the golden light of the sunset came and went amongst the strong wind, lightning and thunder! I had just enough time to take these snaps, but will certainly be back again tomorrow, when the lighting conditions are better

Nervous about the ID of this Schizocarphus :)

I think this is certainly a Schizocarpus sp.,However, I don't think it is nervous, as some Facebook members have suggested, as that sp. appears to be white...unless they change colour? These were the only plants that I came across in the area.

Hopefully Eulophia streptopetala?

Very large specimens discovered in a section of dense vegetation on our farm. Some plants growing in full shade, whilst others are on the edge of the ^thicketed^ area, expose to afternoon sun.

Would a pea in the wrong province be just as sweet?

Possibly Cape Sweetpea (Dipogon lignosus) ? Many of these plants growing on our farm in Northern KZN. But, if I am correct, they should not be found here?

Hundreds of Haemanthus!

Literally hundreds of these plants flowering on our farm at the moment. Newcastle, KZN. The plant in seed is surrounded by Hypoxis (hemerocallidea, I think?).There are hundreds of these too. Also visible in the image is Euphorbia pulvinata. I will post these plants as separate observations.