Learn what every symbol on the card means.Full credits and sources at beakbrain.com/symbols
WetlandPlatform nestLarge · 1.3 kg
ID tip
The black-headed ibis is one of several large waterbird species in south and south-east Asia, with adults measuring 65–76 cm in length. The white plumage is starkly contrasted against a conspicuous naked black neck and head, and black down-curved beak. Tails of adults bear light grey ornamental feathers that turn jet black during the breeding season. During the breeding season, bare patches under the wing turn blood-red. The head of some breeding adults gain a blueish tinge, or very rarely have a pink or bright red patch behind the neck.
Text from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
When to see the Black-headed Ibis
One bar for each month, and every month is filled: this bird is recorded here in all twelve. The wide bar is January, the month with the most records.
Where to see the Black-headed Ibis
The map shades 15 countries with regular records, and 3 more in a lighter tone where the bird turns up only as a stray. Everything unshaded has no records. Countries are listed below the map.
About the Black-headed Ibis
The black-headed ibis, also known as the Oriental white ibis, Indian white ibis, and black-necked ibis, is a species of wading bird of the ibis family Threskiornithidae which breeds in the South and Southeast Asia from India to the west and as far east as Japan. It is the only native ibis species in its range that has an overall white plumage with a black neck and head. The down-curved beak and legs are also black. Though often referred to as a wetland species, the black-headed ibis forages in a range of natural and man-made habitats. This species of ibis nests only during the rainy season.
Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
Easily confused with
Straw-necked IbisThreskiornis spinicollisStraw-necked ibises are large birds, around 59–76 cm (23–30 in) long, with a bare black head and a long, downcurved black bill.
African Sacred IbisThreskiornis aethiopicusAn adult individual is 68 cm (27 in) long with all-white body plumage apart from dark plumes on the rump.
Malagasy Sacred IbisThreskiornis bernieriThe adult stands 65–89 cm (26–35 in) tall, with a wingspan of 112–124 cm (44–49 in).
Side by side: Australian White Ibis vs Black-headed Ibis · African Sacred Ibis vs Black-headed Ibis · Black-headed Ibis vs Straw-necked Ibis · Bare-faced Ibis vs Black-headed Ibis
Learn the Black-headed Ibis in the BeakBrain App
Photo and call practice. Coming soon to iPhone and Android.
Play today's Daily BirdEvery photo and recording on this page is credited to its author under the licence shown. Spotted a problem with this page, or have a better photo? Contribute.