Scarlet Ibis

Brief Description

A medium-sized wading bird with a long, thin, downward-curved bill, long legs, and a slender neck, famous for its intense red color derived from its diet.

Additional Information

• Region of Origin: South America and the Caribbean, specifically coastal areas and tropical wetlands.
• Typical Sighting Period: Year-round in tropical regions, with peak breeding activity during the rainy season.
• Plumage Details: Brilliant scarlet or bright pinkish-red feathers overall, with black tips on the outer primary wings visible in flight.
• Ecological Significance: Acts as an indicator species for wetland health and controls populations of crustaceans, insects, and small fish in aquatic ecosystems.
• Conservation Status: Least Concern (IUCN), though protected in many regions due to habitat loss and hunting for feathers.
• Observation Tips: Look for them in salt marshes, mangroves, and mudflats; use binoculars to spot them from a distance to avoid startling the flock.