Black-headed Ibis
Animal Description

The Black-headed Ibis is a striking bird commonly found in Sri Lanka's wetlands and agricultural landscapes. It is an important species in maintaining the health of wetland ecosystems as it feeds on a variety of aquatic creatures, helping to control pest populations and maintaining ecological balance.

This bird is a colonial nester, often sharing nesting grounds with other species of storks and herons, which fosters a unique dynamic in wetland biodiversity. Their ability to thrive in agricultural landscapes, such as paddy fields, highlights their adaptability to human-modified habitats.

Threats to the Species:

  • Human Activity:
    • Habitat loss due to wetland drainage for agriculture or urban development.
    • Pollution in water bodies affects their food sources.
    • Disturbance from human activity in nesting areas.
  • Natural Factors:
    • Decline in fish populations in wetlands.
    • Competition with other wading birds for resources.

The conservation of wetlands is critical for ensuring the survival of this species. Educating communities about sustainable wetland use and enforcing policies to protect these habitats are key steps toward safeguarding the Black-headed Ibis.

Body Anatomy
The Black-headed Ibis has a distinctive long, curved, down-turned bill, ideal for probing in mud and shallow water. Its legs are long and slender, suited for wading. The neck is relatively long and often held in an "S" shape. The wings are broad and powerful, allowing for sustained flight. The plumage is primarily white, providing camouflage in their wetland habitats. The black head and neck contrast sharply with the white body. The eyes are typically dark.
Scientific Name
Threskiornis melanocephalus
Genus
Threskiornis
Sinhala Name
සුදු දෑතුඩුවා/හිසකළු දෑකැත්තා
Animal Category
Bird Size
Medium Birds(20cm to 40cm)
Bird Height
65-75 cm
Male Female appearance Difference
Same Appearance
Female Appearance
both have black heads and necks with white bodies
Male Appearance
both have black heads and necks with white bodies
Residency
Resident Breeder
Endemism
Non Endemic
Conservation Status
Near Threatened
Fledging Period
40–45 days
Egg Appearance
Oval-shaped, smooth surface
Egg Color
Whitish or pale bluish-green
Egg Incubation
Both Parents
Incubation Period
21-23 days
Number of Eggs at a time
2-4
Egg Laying Locations
Large stick nests in colonies on trees near wetlands
Child Bird Food
Regurgitated food brought by the parents. This includes fish, insects, and other small aquatic creatures.
Adult Bird Food
Fish, frogs, insects, crustaceans, mollusks, small reptiles
Food Type
Carnivorous (Animal-derived)
Food Names
Fish, amphibians, crustaceans, insects, small reptiles
Nature of Living Area
Wetlands, marshes, lakes, rivers, and other bodies of water. They prefer shallow water for foraging.
Family
Threskiornithidae
Order
Pelecaniformes
Class
Aves
Phylum
Chordata
Kingdom
Animalia
Domain
Eukaryota
Living Area Categorization
Wetlands, Agricultural Lands
lifespan
10-15 years

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