General

Scarlet Ibis: This nervous and wary South American species was introduced in Florida and is unmistakable with its bright scarlet plumage, pink skin on face, pink bill and red legs. Black primaries are seen only in flight. Often breeds with the White Ibis producing various shades of pink offspring. Sexes similar and juvenile has gray head, neck, white underparts with brown upperparts.

Range and Habitat

Scarlet Ibis: This South American species was introduced to Florida either deliberately or by escaped birds. Currently found in the southern half of Florida and throughout the West Indies. Prefers shallow, marshy areas and cypress swamps, as well as inland wetlands, pastures, lawns, and shallow ponds.

Breeding and Nesting

Scarlet Ibis: Two to three dull olive-green to buff eggs laid in a frail nest of sticks placed in the fork of branches high in mangrove trees or in shrubs. Will use abandoned nests of herons or egrets.

Foraging and Feeding

Scarlet Ibis: Eats mainly crustaceans but will also eat fish and other aquatic vertebrates. Probes in shallow water with its large decurved bill.

Vocalization

Scarlet Ibis: Generaly silent but emits an alarm call of "gwe, gwe" and a high "tior-tior" when nesting.

Similar Species

Scarlet Ibis: White Ibis is similar in shape but white. White Ibis juveniles are similar but Scarlet Ibis juvenile has grayer brown underparts.