The White-faced Ibis is a medium-sized wading bird found across western North and South America. It is distinguished by its iridescent, dark chestnut body, glossy green and purple wings, and a thin white border around its eyes during breeding.
Where to spot
Widespread in western North America (western US and Canada) and parts of Central and South America. Inhabits freshwater wetlands, marshes, rice paddies, and flooded fields.
How to spot
Look for its dark, iridescent plumage and long, decurved bill. During breeding, note the white border around the bare facial skin and red eyes. Observe it wading in shallow water, probing the mud. Its reddish-pink legs are a key differentiator from Glossy Ibis.
When to spot
Best observed during the breeding season (spring/summer) when its white facial outline is prominent. Migratory in northern parts of its range, wintering south.
Where to spot
Widespread in western North America (western US and Canada) and parts of Central and South America. Inhabits freshwater wetlands, marshes, rice paddies, and flooded fields.
How to spot
Look for its dark, iridescent plumage and long, decurved bill. During breeding, note the white border around the bare facial skin and red eyes. Observe it wading in shallow water, probing the mud. Its reddish-pink legs are a key differentiator from Glossy Ibis.
When to spot
Best observed during the breeding season (spring/summer) when its white facial outline is prominent. Migratory in northern parts of its range, wintering south.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
During non-breeding season, the distinctive white face-mask of this ibis is lost, making it appear very similar to the Glossy Ibis, necessitating careful observation of leg color for differentiation.
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