Glossy Ibis {Plegadis falcinellus}

The Glossy Ibis is a small, slender ibis with a long curved bill. Adult Glossy Ibises have the head, neck, back and underparts a rich chestnut-brown. The wings are black with a metallic green sheen on the 'shoulders'. There is white stripe from the base of the bill to above the eye. The bill, legs and feet are greenish-brown. The Glossy Ibis is a more slender, longer-billed bird than the Hadeda Ibis.

The Glossy Ibis normally occurs in small flocks but can gather in larger groups when food is abundant.

Quick Facts

Name: Plegadis falcinellus

Habitat: Wetlands, marshes, muddy lake-shores and flooded grassland.

Distribution: The Glossy Ibis is found in subtropical Africa. This is a migratory species, with most European birds wintering in Africa.

Diet: Insects, crustaceans, worms, molluscs, fish, frogs and small reptiles.

Socialisation: The Glossy Ibis normally occurs in small flocks but can gather in larger groups when food is abundant.

Reproduction: Breeding occurs during the summer months. The nest is a compact platform of twigs or reeds, situated in a tree, bush or reedbed.

The Glossy Ibis is a colonial nester, often nesting together in mixed heronries with other species.