Black-Headed Ibis

The black-headed ibis (Threskiornis melanocephalus), also popularly known as the Oriental white ibis, Indian white ibis, or black-necked ibis, is a large wading bird native to South and Southeast Asia. It is easily distinguished as the only native ibis in its geographic range to combine a pure white body plumage with a completely bald black head and neck.

Key Characteristics & Behavior

• Appearance: Adults measure between 65 to 76 cm in length. They feature a prominent, down-curved black bill, long black legs, and white feathers that sometimes turn slightly gray or acquire a yellowish tint near the tail and breast during breeding season. Males and females are identical in appearance.
• Diet & Foraging: Armed with their long, curved beaks, they probe muddy wetlands, agricultural marshes, and rivers. They are versatile carnivores, eating fish, frogs, mollusks, insects, and occasionally small reptiles like snakes.
• Habitat & Breeding: While closely associated with freshwater wetlands and swamp areas, they are incredibly adaptable and regularly utilize human-altered spaces like flooded rice paddies, salt pans, and urban waste areas. They typically build stick nests in trees near water bodies and breed strictly during the monsoon or rainy season.
• Conservation: The species is currently listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List. Their global population is in decline due to widespread wetland drainage, agricultural pollution, and habitat fragmentation.