African Sacred Ibis
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Bgag" title="User:Bgag">Bernard Gagnon</a> (CC BY-SA 4.0)
NameAfrican Sacred Ibis
Common NameAfrican Sacred Ibis
Scientific NameThreskiornis aethiopicus
FamilyThreskiornithidae
Wingspan (cm)118
Length (cm)70
Weight (g)1350
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is mostly white, contrasting sharply with the glossy black secondary and tertiary flight feathers that create a dark 'tail plume' when the wings are folded. The head and upper neck are bare and black, as are the long legs and the distinctive decurved bill.
Vocalization / CallGenerally a silent bird, but can produce a range of croaking, grunting, and squealing sounds, particularly when breeding or disturbed.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetlands, grasslands, savanna, farmlands, coastal areas, riverbanks
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread throughout sub-Saharan Africa, with populations also found in parts of the Middle East. Historically present in Egypt, and introduced populations exist in some European countries.
Identifying Featureslong, decurved black bill, bare black head and neck, white body plumage, black flight feathers forming a 'tail plume', long black legs
Description
A large wading bird, the African Sacred Ibis is characterized by its predominantly white body and striking black head, neck, and flight feathers. It is commonly found foraging in wetlands and grasslands, using its long, decurved bill to probe for food.
