Northern Bald Ibis - Five Sisters Zoo

The Northern Bald Ibis has iridescent green, purple and black feathers covering most of their body up to the base of their skull but no feathers grow past that point, which gives them their name. They possess a long, curved red beak and red legs as well. They are most closely related herons and pelicans, but unlike other Ibis species they do not wade in the water, preferring to stay on land for hunting.

Facts

Diet: Omnivore; invertebrates, small reptiles, small mammals, birds, plants.

Weight: 1-1.5kg

Wingspan: 125-135cm

Length: 70-80cm

Habitat: Morocco, Yemen, Turkey, populations in Syria unconfirmed; rocky cliffs and coastline that offer cave spaces, some wetland areas and grassy areas.

Life Span: 10-15 years in the wild, 20-25 years under human care

Adapted to Survive

  • Bald head allows for heat dissipation
  • Will travel in flocks during migration for safety and support

Threats

  • Poaching and hunting
  • Habitat loss and human expansion
  • Agricultural expansion

IUCN Conservation Status

Endangered

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