Glossy Ibis
Plegadis falcinellus
Aves › Pelecaniformes › Threskiornithidae › Plegadis
Conservation status: least_concern
The glossy ibis is a water bird in the order Pelecaniformes and the ibis and spoonbill family Threskiornithidae. The scientific name derives from Ancient Greek plegados and Latin, falcis, both meaning "sickle" and referring to the distinctive shape of the bill.
How To Identify
Measuring roughly 60-85 cm in length, it possesses sleek, dark plumage that catches light dramatically, contrasted by pale patches on the wings and striking long legs.
Habitat
Glossy Ibises inhabit shallow wetlands including marshes, swamps, rice paddies, and coastal lagoons, preferring areas with muddy bottoms and emergent vegetation.
Behaviour
They probe deeply into mud and shallow water with their long, curved bills to hunt for invertebrates, crustaceans, and small fish, often feeding in loose flocks that roost communally at night.
Native Range
The Glossy Ibis is thought to have originated in the Old World.
Did You Know?
Despite their dark plumage, Glossy Ibises have iridescent feathers that shimmer with purple, green, and bronze hues in sunlight. They can fly at speeds over 50 km/h and navigate using the Earth's magnetic field.
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