General

White Ibis: This coastal species is white overall with pink facial skin, bill, and legs that turn scarlet during breeding season. Black tips on the primary feathers are only seen in flight. Flies in straight line formation with neck and legs outstretched, roosts high in trees and bushes at night. Sexes are similar and juvenile has brown upperparts with white underparts and rump.

Range and Habitat

White Ibis: Prefers coastal salt marshes, swamps, and mangroves. Found along the Gulf Coast, mid-Altantic coast and Mexican coast and has become common in some city parks. Breeds as far north as Virginia and casual as far north as New Jersey, mid-west and Southwest.

Breeding and Nesting

White Ibis: Two to four pale blue to green-white eggs with brown blotches laid in a nest made of sticks and reeds by the female with materials gathered by the male. Usually in a tree over water. Monogamous and usually nests in colonies with other wading birds.

Foraging and Feeding

White Ibis: Eats mainly aquatic crustaceans and insects. Forages by probing in shallow water with their long, decurved bills.

Vocalization

White Ibis: The call of the male is a "hunk-hunk-hunk-hunk" and the female squeals.

Similar Species

White Ibis: Glossy Ibis only found in the East and White-faced Ibis similar to juvenile but has white underparts and rump.