About the Sacred Ibis
The Sacred Ibis (Threskiornis aethiopicus) is a species of wading bird found in various parts of Africa, the Middle East, and Europe.
Habitat
Sacred Ibises inhabit a variety of wetland habitats, including marshes, swamps, lakes, rivers, and estuaries. They are often found in both freshwater and saltwater environments, as well as human-modified landscapes such as agricultural areas, urban parks, and golf courses. These ibises are adaptable birds and can also be seen in non-wetland habitats such as grasslands and savannas.
Length
Sacred Ibises are medium-sized wading birds, measuring approximately 65 to 75 centimeters (25.5 to 29.5 inches) in length, with a wingspan of about 105 to 125 centimeters (41 to 49 inches). They have a long, curved bill, a long neck, and relatively long legs adapted for wading in shallow water. Their plumage is predominantly white, with black wingtips and tail feathers, as well as a black patch on the face and a black stripe down the back of the neck.
Best Viewing
The best places to view Sacred Ibises are in wetland habitats with suitable feeding areas, such as marshes, lakes, and rivers. Look for them wading in shallow water, where they use their long bills to probe the mud for aquatic invertebrates, fish, frogs, and other prey. These ibises are often seen feeding in small to large flocks, especially during the breeding season when they gather in larger numbers at nesting colonies.