African Sacred Ibises
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The African Sacred Ibises (Threskiornis aethiopicus) are wading birds found in sub-Saharan Africa and southeastern Iraq.
Their former range also included Egypt, where they were was often mummified as a symbol of the god Thoth.
Introduced flocks also exist in France, Italy, Spain, and the United States (southern Florida).
They inhabit marshy wetlands and mud flats, both inland and on the coast. They may also visit cultivated lands and rubbish dumps.
Breeding / Nesting
Sacred Ibises nest in tree colonies, often with other large wading birds such as herons.
Their large stick nests are typically placed in a baobab.
The typical clutch consists of 2 - 3 eggs.
Diet / Feeding
It feeds on various fish, frogs, small mammals, reptiles and smaller birds as well as insects.
They survive winters in temperate regions by feeding at rubbish dumps.
Description
The adults measure, on average, 68 cm in length.
The plumage is mostly white, except for the blackish rump and black rear border on the wings that can be seen in flight. .
The featherless head and neck, thick curved bill and legs are black.
Males and females look alike.
Juveniles can be identified by their dirty white plumage, smaller bill and, unlike the adults, they have some feathering on the neck.
Calls / Vocalizations
Sacred Ibises are mostly silent; but occasionally some croaking sounds can be heard.
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