JORDAN RIVER COMMISSION

Species Spotlight

 

 

White-faced Ibis
Plegadis chihi

The White-faced Ibis (Plegadis chihi) is a wading bird in the family Threskiornithidae. This species breeds in marshes, usually nesting near the ground in bushes or low trees.  Its breeding range extends from the western USA south through Mexico, as well as from southeastern Central and South America.

The birds are easily identified by their long, curved bills, which they use to probe the march ground for insects.  Watch for them along the entire Jordan River corridor.

Adult Appearance:

  • Long, down-curved bill.
  • Long dark legs.
  • Dark colored body, with subtle color variations in bright sunlight.

Immature Appearance:

  • Similar to adult, but with dark banded bill and duller body.

Source: Cornell Lab of Ornithology: http://www.birds.cornell.edu/