Malagasy Sacred Ibis
Threskiornis bernieri
The Malagasy Sacred Ibis (Threskiornis bernieri) is a legendary ibises and spoonbill found in 3 countries, weighing about 1.5 kg. The Malagasy sacred ibis is a relatively large, heavily built ibis endemic to the west coast of Madagascar, and Aldabra on the Seychelles.
About the Malagasy Sacred Ibis
The Malagasy sacred ibis is a relatively large, heavily built ibis endemic to the west coast of Madagascar, and Aldabra on the Seychelles.
Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
How to identify it
The adult stands 65–89 cm (26–35 in) tall, with a wingspan of 112–124 cm (44–49 in). The plumage is predominantly white, often with brownish-yellow staining. There are also black ornamental plumes on the back with a blue or green gloss formed from the lower scapulars and tertials, which are most prominent in the breeding season. The bill, head, neck and legs are black.
Where it lives
Recorded as a rare visitor in Mayotte.
When to see it
Best months: September, October, November, with peak activity in November. It is a variable species across most of its range.
Easily confused with
Quick questions
- How do you identify a Malagasy Sacred Ibis?
- The adult stands 65–89 cm (26–35 in) tall, with a wingspan of 112–124 cm (44–49 in). Full identification notes are on this page.
- How big is a Malagasy Sacred Ibis?
- The Malagasy Sacred Ibis is a large sized bird weighing about 1.5 kg.
- Where can you see a Malagasy Sacred Ibis?
- The Malagasy Sacred Ibis occurs in 3 countries, including Madagascar and the Seychelles.
- What birds look similar to a Malagasy Sacred Ibis?
- The Malagasy Sacred Ibis is most easily confused with the Black-headed Ibis, the Straw-necked Ibis and the African Sacred Ibis.
- Is the Malagasy Sacred Ibis endangered?
- The Malagasy Sacred Ibis is listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List.
Learn the Malagasy Sacred Ibis for real
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