Glossy Ibis
Plegadis falcinellus
28.5725, -80.9937
Field Notes
Description:
The Glossy is a medium-sized, dark wading bird with a long, slightly curved bill. It weighs about 1.2 pounds and measure 23 inches, with a 36-inch wingspan. While it can appear very dark, it is actually a very colorful bird, especially when the light catches the vibrant green, purple and teal feathers on it's back and wings. The feathers on its breast and neck are brownish to reddish. During breeding season it appears more reddish and vibrant, with a light blue line around it's face.
Habitat:
Found along the east coast from Maine to Florida and the Gulf Coast to Texas. It is also found in Central and South America, Africa and other continents. It feeds in marshes, estuaries, coastal bays and other wetlands. It can often be seen feeding with white ibis or it's close cousin, the white-faced ibis. The white-faced ibis looks very similar, but has a red eye and is not as common.
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