Southern Bald Ibis
NameSouthern Bald Ibis
Common NameSouthern Bald Ibis
Scientific NameGeronticus calvus
FamilyThreskiornithidae
Wingspan (cm)130
Length (cm)75
Weight (g)1350
Plumage DetailsThe body plumage is glossy dark green-blue with an iridescent bronze-green sheen, particularly on the back and wings. A prominent maroon patch is visible on the shoulder/upper wing. The head is unfeathered and bright red, with a pale, almost white, patch on the face around the eye. It has a long, decurved red bill and red legs.
Vocalization / CallGenerally a quiet bird, but can produce a variety of croaks, grunts, and hisses, especially when disturbed or at the nest site.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to southern Africa, primarily found in the high-altitude grasslands and plateaus of South Africa, Lesotho, and Eswatini.
Identifying FeaturesUnfeathered bright red head with pale face patch, Long, decurved red bill, Glossy dark body plumage with iridescent sheen, Maroon patch on shoulder, Red legs
Description
The Southern Bald Ibis is a medium-sized, terrestrial ibis characterized by its glossy dark plumage and distinctive unfeathered red head. It primarily forages in open grasslands, probing the soil with its long, decurved bill for invertebrates.
