African Sacred Ibis

The African sacred ibis (Threskiornis aethiopicus) is a striking wading bird from the family Threskiornithidae. It is characterized by its all-white plumage, save for the dark plumes on its rump. The adult bird measures approximately 68 cm (27 in) in length, with a wingspan ranging from 112 to 124 cm (44 to 49 in), and weighs between 1.35 to 1.5 kg (3.0 to 3.3 lb). Males are generally slightly larger than females. The species is distinguished by its bald head and neck, thick curved bill, and black legs. In flight, the white wings reveal a contrasting black rear border. The eyes are brown, encircled by a dark red orbital ring.

Identification Tips

When identifying the African sacred ibis, look for the combination of its white body, black head, neck, and bill. Juveniles can be recognized by their less pristine white plumage, smaller bill, and some feathering on the neck. The presence of greenish-brown scapulars and more black on the primary coverts also helps to distinguish younger birds.

Habitat

This ibis favors marshy wetlands and mud flats, both inland and along the coast. It is often found nesting in trees near water and is known to frequent very shallow wetlands, wet pastures with soft soil, cultivation areas, and rubbish dumps.

Distribution

Native

The African sacred ibis is indigenous to Sub-Saharan Africa and parts of the Middle East, including small regions of Iraq, Iran, and Kuwait. The species has migratory populations that move with the rains, with some South African birds traveling as far north as Zambia, while those north of the equator migrate in the opposite direction.

Introduced

The species has been introduced to various parts of Europe, including Italy, France, and the Netherlands, as well as to Florida, Taiwan, and the United Arab Emirates. In Europe, it is considered an invasive species.

Behaviour

The African sacred ibis is a social bird, often seen in flocks. It is predominantly silent, but can occasionally emit puppy-like yelping sounds. The species is known for its predatory feeding habits, which occur mainly during the day.

Song & Calls

This species is usually silent, but may occasionally make puppy-like yelping noises.

Breeding

Breeding occurs once a year during the wet season, with the season spanning from March to August in Africa and from April to May in Iraq. The ibis builds a stick nest, often in a baobab tree, and nests in colonies alongside other large wading birds. Females lay one to five eggs, which are incubated by both parents for 21 to 29 days. Chicks fledge after 35 to 40 days and reach sexual maturity between one to five years after hatching.

Similar Species

The African sacred ibis is closely related to the black-headed ibis and the Australian white ibis, with which it forms a superspecies complex. These species can hybridize in mixed flocks.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the African sacred ibis consists mainly of insects, worms, crustaceans, molluscs, fish, frogs, reptiles, small mammals, and carrion. It uses its long beak to probe the soil for invertebrates and may also feed on seeds.

Conservation status

The IUCN classifies the African sacred ibis as "Least Concern," with an estimated global population of 200,000–450,000 individuals. However, the population appears to be decreasing. The species is covered by the Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds (AEWA).

In myth and legend

The African sacred ibis was venerated in Ancient Egyptian religion, linked to the god Thoth. It was often mummified as a votive offering. The species was believed to fend off winged serpents and was associated with wisdom and knowledge.