African Sacred Ibis
Image: Marike (cc-by-nc)
NameAfrican Sacred Ibis
Common NameAfrican Sacred Ibis
Scientific NameThreskiornis aethiopicus
FamilyThreskiornithidae
Wingspan (cm)118
Length (cm)77
Weight (g)1350
Plumage DetailsAdults have white body plumage with black ornamental plumes on the rump and inner secondary feathers, particularly noticeable during breeding season. The head and neck are bare and black, as are the legs and the long, decurved bill.
Vocalization / CallGenerally a silent bird, but can produce a variety of grunts, croaks, and squawks, especially when disturbed or within breeding colonies.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland, grassland, urban, coastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeNative to sub-Saharan Africa and Iraq. Historically found in Egypt. Introduced populations exist in parts of Europe and other regions.
Identifying Featurespredominantly white body plumage, bare black head and neck, long, decurved black bill, black legs, black ornamental plumes on rump (breeding)
Description
The African Sacred Ibis is a large wading bird characterized by its predominantly white plumage and distinctive bare black head and neck. It possesses a long, stout, downcurved black bill and black legs, often seen foraging in wetlands or nesting in trees.
