Black-Headed Ibis

(Threskiornis melanocephalus)

Size(68-74cm): It is about the size of the Red-naped Ibis.

Area: Resident in the W, NW and SW India.

Habitat: Marshes, ponds, lagoons, lakes and riversides.

My two words: It is a large white Ibis with a black neck and head. The large black bill is curved downwards. Rarely some birds develop red patch behind the neck. The have a red wing lining. The legs are pure black. Like any other Ibis, it also flies with its neck outstretched.

They are usually encountered in small flocks.

They nest during the monsoons when there is plenty of rainfall and a suitable temperature. The nest is a platform of sticks and grass.

They breed in colonies, often with herons and storks.

They are usually silent but make some strange grunts when breeding and on nests.

~Arjun Basandrai