Black-headed Ibis

The Black-headed Ibis, known scientifically as Threskiornis melanocephalus, presents a striking figure with its predominantly white plumage, sharply contrasting with its black head and neck. The species, also referred to as the Oriental White Ibis, Indian White Ibis, or Black-necked Ibis, is a large wader, with adults typically ranging from 65 to 76 cm in length. Its tail is adorned with light grey ornamental feathers that turn a deep black during the breeding season, adding to its distinctive appearance.

Identification Tips

To identify the Black-headed Ibis, look for the characteristic naked black head and neck, and the down-curved black beak. During the breeding season, you may notice bare patches under the wing turning a vivid blood-red, and some adults may exhibit a blueish tinge on the head or, more rarely, a pink or bright red patch behind the neck. Juveniles can be distinguished by their greyish neck and speckled brown-grey wings and back.

Habitat

This adaptable bird frequents a variety of habitats, both natural and man-made. It can be found in freshwater and saltwater marshes, lakes, ponds, rice fields, crop fields, irrigation canals, riversides, reservoirs, urban lakes, open sewage gutters, grazing lots, and even garbage dumping sites.

Distribution

The Black-headed Ibis breeds across South and Southeast Asia, from India to Japan. It is a native resident in countries such as Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam. It is also known to migrate or appear as a vagrant in Japan, Korea, Laos, and Mongolia.

Behaviour

The species exhibits a seasonal preference for different foraging habitats, particularly in agricultural landscapes. In summer, it favors natural marshes and fallow fields, while during the monsoon, it disperses more widely into agricultural fields. In regions with more forests and rocky hills, wetlands remain the preferred habitat throughout the year.

Song & Calls

The Black-headed Ibis is generally silent, lacking a true voice-producing mechanism. However, it does produce ventriloquistic grunts, particularly by pairs at the nest.

Breeding

Breeding occurs only during the rainy season. The ibis nests in heronry colonies near wetlands, constructing platform nests of sticks lined with grass and threads. In urban areas, old trees are often utilized for both roosting and nesting.

Similar Species

While there are no similar species within its range that share the Black-headed Ibis's overall white plumage and black head and neck, juvenile birds may be confused with other large waterbirds. Careful observation of the head and beak coloration will aid in correct identification.

Diet and Feeding

The Black-headed Ibis forages in a range of habitats, altering its diet seasonally based on the availability of food sources in its diverse habitats.

Conservation Status

The IUCN Red List classifies the Black-headed Ibis as Near Threatened. The species has experienced considerable declines in certain areas, particularly in Sumatra, due to habitat loss and other pressures. Conservation efforts are needed to ensure the survival of this unique species.