(Plegadis falcinellus)
19 - 26 inches

photograph © Walker Golder

Status: State-listed as Species of Special Concern.

Identification: Glossy Ibis are easily identified by their entirely dark plumage that appears black in the shade, but looks iridescent bronze in sunlight. The long decurved bill and legs are dark gray to black.

Nesting Habitat: Glossy Ibis nest primarily on estuarine and barrier islands, usually in association with other wading birds. Nests are usually elevated in shrubs, trees or marsh grasses, or they may be on the ground.

Breeding Biology: Initiation of nesting activities in North Carolina colonies begins in mid-to-late April, and may continue until late June. Glossy Ibis construct bulky platform nests of interwoven plant stems, twigs or marsh grasses. The female lays four dark blue-green eggs, one each day. The incubation period is 21 days, and nestlings begin to fly at about six weeks of age. Adults and juveniles occupy North Carolina colony sites from April to early August.

Food: Food consists primarily of crustaceans, insects and other invertebrates. Other food items include small reptiles and amphibians.

State Nesting Population: Stable, approximately 480 nesting pairs.

Major Threats: Human disturbances at nesting sites, loss of nesting habitat, degradadtion of wetland foraging areas.

Waterbirds:
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Last Revision 5/21/98