Wattled Ibis
NameWattled Ibis
Common NameWattled Ibis
Scientific NameBostrychia carunculata
FamilyThreskiornithidae
Wingspan (cm)90
Length (cm)62.5
Weight (g)1200
Plumage DetailsPredominantly dull olive-brown to dark brown plumage, often with a metallic greenish sheen on the wings and back. It features a prominent shaggy crest of dark feathers on its head and a bare, blackish face. The most distinctive feature is the red fleshy wattles on the throat, which are more pronounced in breeding adults.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its loud, raucous, and far-carrying calls, often described as a 'haa-haa-haa' or 'ga-ga-ga' sound, particularly when flying or disturbed.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, wetland, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Ethiopian Highlands, primarily found in Ethiopia and Eritrea.
Identifying Featuresshaggy crest, long decurved bill, dark plumage with metallic sheen, red fleshy wattles on throat, bare blackish face
Description
The Wattled Ibis is a large, dark ibis endemic to the Ethiopian Highlands, easily recognized by its shaggy crest and distinctive fleshy wattles on its throat. It forages in open grasslands and wetlands, probing for invertebrates with its long, decurved bill.
