Ibis cabecia negra

1. Nombre de ave:
– English Name: Black-headed Ibis
– Scientific (Latin) Name: Threskiornis melanocephalus

2. Apariencia:
The Black-headed Ibis, as its name suggests, is a remarkable bird distinguished by its predominantly white body and contrasting black head. Its long down-curved beak, perfect for foraging in water or soil, is a deep black matching the glossy black feathers on its head, neck, and part of its upper chest. The rest of its body is covered in white feathers which have a soft shimmer when caught in the right light. The eye is a striking bluish-white, providing a bold contrast to the dark head. Both sexes showcase very similar features, making it difficult to distinguish males from females based on physical appearance.

3. Tamaño:
Black-headed Ibises typically measure between 65-85 cm (25-33 inches) in length, and sport an impressive wingspan that ranges between 95-115 cm (37-45 inches). The bird weighs between 1.2 to 2.5 kg on average.

4. Habitat & Distribution:
The Black-headed Ibis is predominantly found across the Indian Subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and parts of China. It is a common sight in marshes, ponds, lakes, and wetlands, its preferred habitats. The bird can also adapt to irrigated agricultural lands when its natural wetland habitats are destroyed.

5. Datos de interés:
– Black-headed Ibises are known to form large nesting colonies, usually with other waterbirds.
– They can adapt to human-modified habitats such as agricultural fields, and city parks that have water bodies.
– The Black-headed Ibis has a significant place in cultural mythology in parts of South Asia, seen as a harbinger of rain and bearer of good luck.

6. Dieta:
The Black-headed Ibis primarily feeds on insects, frogs, small fish, crustaceans, worms, and even rodents, using its sharp curved beak to expertly fish out its prey from the water or soil.

7. Behavior & Sounds:
Black-headed Ibises form large colonies for nesting along with other bird species. They are a quiet bird species, especially for a large waterbird. Their flight pattern is typically characterized by a row or V-formation, a common trait in many large waterbirds. Their calls are often described as a low, guttural croak.

8. Estado de conservación:
According to the IUCN Red List, The Black-headed Ibis is currently categorized as “Near Threatened,” primarily due to significant declines in their population owing to habitat loss, human disturbance, and poaching in some regions.

9. Vida útil:
In the wild, Black-headed Ibises are known to live for up to 15-20 years. Regarding captivity, there’s limited information, but provided the proper care, their lifespans could potentially extend.

10. Notas adicionales:
– Local languages: In Hindi, the bird is known as ‘Kalasirra.’
– Human interaction: They have adapted to human-modified habitats and can be seen in city parks with water bodies.
– Ecosystem role: As with many waterbirds, Black-headed Ibises help in controlling the population of insects, frogs, and small fish in their environment. In turn, they are a food source for larger predators. Their nesting colony’s droppings enrich the soil and benefit the local vegetation.

It is crucial to understand and act on the looming threats to the Black-headed Ibis and other similar species to protect our biodiversity, highlighting the need for comprehensive conservation efforts.