american white ibis

1. Bird Name
English Name: American White Ibis
Scientific (Latin) Name: Eudocimus albus

2. Appearance
The American White Ibis is adorned with strikingly immaculate, pure white feathers. They have distinctively long, thin, and curved, downward-pointing beaks that are bright red-orange in color. Their eyes are circled by bare skin that is also the same vivacious hue. Their legs and long neck make them stand out, with both features being strikingly pink. Younger birds, however, carry a balance of brown and white feathers, transitioning to their adult coloration after two years. Male and female American White Ibises are similar in appearance, with males being slightly larger with longer bills.

3. Size
The American White Ibis averages around 65 cm (25 inches) in length. Their wingspan extends impressively from 90 to 105 cm (35-41 inches). The bird weighs in a range anywhere between 750g to 1.5 kg (1.65 to 3.30 lbs).

4. Habitat & Distribution
This species of ibis can be found throughout the southeastern United States, particularly in Florida and along the Gulf Coast. They migrate towards the warmer climate in Winter, expanding to areas around the Caribbean and Central America. Their preferred habitats are marshy wetlands, coastal estuaries, and swamps.

5. Interesting Facts
Interesting enough, the American White Ibis holds cultural significance in Egyptian mythology, being associated with the god, Thoth. Despite being a wading bird, it has been noted to also roost in trees, often in large communal groups. Another fascinating fact about this bird is its migration behavior; it travels by day in tight formations to conserve energy.

6. Diet
The American White Ibis is principally a carnivore. They use their long, curved beak to probe into the mud or under the water for food, feeding on small fish, insects, worms, and crustaceans.

7. Behavior & Sounds
These birds show unique social behaviors, often being seen in flocks of 30 or more. Their colonies can even reach thousands during the breeding season, creating a grand spectacle with their synchronised nesting and feeding. Their call is a distinct, high-pitched honk, often given in flight or when disturbed.

8. Conservation Status
The conservation status of the American White Ibis, according to the IUCN Red List, is of least concern, with the population believed to be stable.

9. Lifespan
In the wild, the American White Ibis typically lives to be about 16 years old. However, with optimum conditions in captivity, they may reach up to 20 years of age.

10. Additional Notes
The American White Ibis plays a critical role in its habitats as part of the cleanup crew. By consuming dead or diseased fish, they aid in maintaining the ecological balance of their habitat. They are known by various names in different languages; for instance, they’re often called “Corocoro Blanco” in Spanish-speaking regions.