The Ibis bird varies in characteristics by the specific species, but they are all basically a wetland bird with long legs who scour the mud for food. These shore birds have an upright stance and are usually found wading in wetlands, but they are also adaptable to city living. They are not above digging through the rubbish for food. Here are some descriptions of various Ibis birds.
Australian White Ibis Bird
Otherwise known as a "sheep bird," the Australian Ibis bird can be found in wetland or city parks. They like water and garbage facilities. These birds are mostly black and white with a long, thin beak. They are approximately 22 inches long with a 38 inch wing span. Their long legs allow them to wade in the water for long periods of time, which is where they find their food. They tend to feed in a group and nest in nearby trees.
The Glossy Ibis Bird
The Glossy ibis is approximately 23 inches long and has a long, slim bill. They look a little different than most ibis birds because they are bronze in color with a purple sheen, which is more prominent when they are in flight. During times of breeding, their legs and eyes appear red and a white border appears around their face. They can most likely be found along the Texas Coast or the Great Plains wetlands.
The Sacred Ibis Bird
The Sacred Ibis birds are roughly 68 cm long with white feathers and black extremities. They tend to nest in colonies in nearby trees and feast from the muddy bottom of marshy wetlands. They mainly eat fish, frogs and insects.The Scarlet Ibis Bird
The Scarlet Ibis is a beautiful and breath-taking bird. They are tropical birds and can be found in South America. They are approximately 56-61cm long and aside from the black tips on their wings, the Scarlet Ibis is all wonderful hues of orange, pink, and salmon. They have a bright and vibrant hue to their feathers, legs and necks. Their color is related to the food they eat. In the wild they eat algae and crustaceans that are a high source of the salmon colored pigment. When in captivity, they are fed pellets that resemble their natural food choices to help maintain the vibrant pigment in their feathers. These are the most attractive of the Ibis bird and they are easily recognized.
