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Glossy Ibis
Latin Name:
Plegadis falcinellus
Category:
Size:
60cm
Description:
A dark, rather gangly waterbird with a long, thin downward-curved brown bill. When breeding it takes on a reddish-brown hue, with swathes of glossy purplish-green, particularly on the wings, and a white area around the eyes; non-breeders have whitish streaking on heads. Sexes alike. Flight pattern appears laboured with outstretched necks and legs.
Habitat:
Inhabits all types of shallow freshwater, particularly with floating vegetation. Often feeds on water hyacinth beds. Feeds mainly on invertebrates, especially grasshoppers.
Distribution:
Fairly common but local breeding resident subject to wandering. Most frequent in north and west.
