An iconic and highly endangered ibis with beautiful white plumage, a bare red face, and a distinctive shaggy crest on its nape. Native to East Asia, it has undergone significant conservation efforts.
Where to spot
Wetlands, rice paddies, and forest edges, historically across East Asia. Wild populations are now almost exclusively found in Shaanxi province, China, with reintroduction projects in Japan and South Korea.
How to spot
Look for its pure white plumage (can acquire pinkish tones from preening), bare red face, and prominent shaggy crest. Often seen wading quietly in shallow water or probing in muddy fields.
When to spot
Year-round in protected areas. Most active during daylight, foraging in shallow water or fields.
Where to spot
Wetlands, rice paddies, and forest edges, historically across East Asia. Wild populations are now almost exclusively found in Shaanxi province, China, with reintroduction projects in Japan and South Korea.
How to spot
Look for its pure white plumage (can acquire pinkish tones from preening), bare red face, and prominent shaggy crest. Often seen wading quietly in shallow water or probing in muddy fields.
When to spot
Year-round in protected areas. Most active during daylight, foraging in shallow water or fields.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
The Crested Ibis was once widespread across East Asia but declined dramatically in the 20th century, with only a handful of individuals remaining in the wild by the 1980s. Intensive conservation efforts have slowly increased its population.
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