Hi everybody,
This week’s bird is the: White-faced Ibis
1) You may think this bird is only found in some far-flung tropical place because of its crazy appearance, but the White-faced Ibis is a North American (and South American) bird found from the American West to Southeast.
2) This ibis is closely related to the Glossy Ibis, a species found on the East Coast. So for all the subscribers in the NE, you can consider that species your *regional* BOTW.
3) The White-faced Ibis loves marshy areas, and often builds its nest on small islands to avoid predators that live on land.
4) These birds are pretty large, with a wingspan of about 3 feet. Being large usually means a longer lifespan, but these birds don’t usually live beyond 10 years old.
5) These birds are one of the great conservation success stories, rebounding after the use of DDT was curtailed. Now they are generally considered “of least concern” - meaning scientists believe their populations are more-or-less stable.
Have a wonderful week!
What an amazing bird, such beautiful colours in the feathers.