Hadada Ibis
NameHadada Ibis
Common NameHadada Ibis
Scientific NameBostrychia hagedash
FamilyThreskiornithidae
Wingspan (cm)95
Length (cm)70
Weight (g)1200
Plumage DetailsDull grey-brown body plumage with a distinctive iridescent green-bronze sheen on the wing coverts. It features a white stripe across its cheek and a long, decurved black bill with a prominent red stripe along the culmen.
Vocalization / CallA very loud, distinctive, and far-carrying 'haa-haa-dah' or 'ha-da-da' call, often repeated, especially when flying or disturbed. It can also produce a harsh 'kraaaah' sound.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, urban, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from Sudan and Ethiopia south to South Africa, avoiding only the driest desert regions.
Identifying Featureslong decurved bill with red stripe, iridescent green-bronze wing patch, white cheek stripe, loud 'haa-haa-dah' call, dull grey-brown plumage
Description
The Hadada Ibis is a large, dull grey-brown ibis with an iridescent green-bronze sheen on its wings. It is well-known for its distinctive loud 'haa-haa-dah' call, often heard at dawn and dusk, and for foraging in open grassy areas.
