Northern Bald Ibis

The Northern Bald Ibis, also known as the Hermit Ibis or Waldrapp (Geronticus eremita), is a striking bird with a glossy black plumage that exhibits bronze-green and violet iridescence. It stands out with its unfeathered red face and head, and a long, curved red bill. This bird measures 70–80 cm in length, with a wingspan of 125–135 cm, and weighs between 1.0 and 1.3 kg. Unlike many ibises, it does not wade but instead forages on land.

Identification Tips

Adults are easily identified by their bare red face and head, long red bill, and glossy black feathers. In flight, the Northern Bald Ibis has a distinct profile with less rounded wings and a shorter neck compared to other ibises. Its legs are relatively short, so its feet do not extend beyond the tail in flight. Juveniles have a dark head, grey legs, and a pale bill, with red areas developing as they mature.

Habitat

The Northern Bald Ibis favors open landscapes such as grasslands, rocky habitats, and semi-deserts, often near running water. It nests on coastal or mountain cliff ledges, away from the trees and wetlands preferred by other ibis species.

Distribution

Historically widespread across the Middle East, northern Africa, and southern and central Europe, the Northern Bald Ibis has vanished from most of its range. Today, the majority of the wild population is found in southern Morocco, with reintroduction programs in Europe and a semi-wild colony in Turkey.

Behaviour

This bird is known for its gregarious nature, forming flocks that commute to feeding areas. It breeds in colonies, with pairs that mate for life. The Northern Bald Ibis is migratory in parts of its range, with some populations traveling significant distances between breeding and wintering grounds.

Song & Calls

At breeding colonies, the Northern Bald Ibis produces guttural "hrump" and high, hoarse "hyoh" calls. Outside of these areas, it is generally silent.

Breeding

Breeding occurs on cliff ledges or boulders, where the ibis lays two to four eggs in a stick nest. Both parents incubate the eggs and care for the chicks, which fledge after 40–50 days. The species starts breeding at three to five years of age.

Similar Species

The Southern Bald Ibis (G. calvus) can be distinguished by its whitish face. The Glossy Ibis (Plegadis falcinellus) is similar in dark plumage but is smaller and has a different flight profile.

Diet and Feeding

The Northern Bald Ibis has a varied diet, primarily consuming lizards and beetles, but also small mammals, birds, and various invertebrates. It forages in flocks, using its bill to probe the soil for food.

Conservation Status

The Northern Bald Ibis is classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Its population has declined due to hunting, habitat loss, and other human-related factors. Conservation efforts, including protection of breeding sites and reintroduction programs, have helped stabilize some populations.