HADADA IBIS
Bostrychia hagedash
DESCRIPTION
The Hadada Ibis is a large, wading bird characterized by its long, curved bill and striking iridescent plumage. Its body is predominantly dark brown with a glossy green and purple sheen, and it has a distinctive white wing patch that is visible in flight. Known for its loud, distinctive call, the Hadada Ibis is often found in wetlands and grasslands, where it forages for food.
FUN FACTS
- The Hadada Ibis is named for its distinctive call, which sounds like 'ha-da-da' and can be heard from a distance
- This vocalization is not only a means of communication but also plays a role in attracting mates during the breeding season.|These birds are known for their unique foraging behavior, often seen probing the ground with their long bills to uncover hidden insects and invertebrates
- Their adaptability allows them to thrive in both natural and human-altered environments
QUICK INFO
Lifespan10-15 years in the wild
Average Weight0.7-1.2 kg
Average Length65-75 cm
Diet TypeOmnivore
Social Structuregroup — often seen foraging in flocks
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonWet season (varies by region)
- Habitat
- The Hadada Ibis inhabits a variety of wetland environments, including marshes, swamps, and riverbanks. It is also found in grasslands and agricultural fields, where it can forage for food.
- Biomes
- Wetlands, Grassland
- Native Range
- The Hadada Ibis is native to sub-Saharan Africa, ranging from Senegal in the west to Ethiopia in the east.
- Continent
- Africa
- Countries
- Senegal, Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Ethiopia
- Diet
- The Hadada Ibis primarily feeds on insects, small invertebrates, and plant material. It uses its long bill to probe into the mud and grass to find its food.
- Diet Type
- Omnivore
- Favorite Food
- insects, small invertebrates
- Social Structure
- group — often seen foraging in flocks
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 5-30
- Territorial
- 0
VU
LC
0.7-1.2 kg
Weight
65-75 cm
Length
- Coloration
- dark brown with iridescent green and purple highlights
- Lifespan
- 10-15 years in the wild
- Offspring per Birth
- 2-4
- Sexual Maturity
- 1-2 years
- Breeding Season
- Wet season (varies by region)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population of Hadada Ibis is currently stable, with no major declines reported.
- Wild Population Estimate
- 100,000+
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- The main threats to the Hadada Ibis include habitat loss due to agricultural expansion and wetland drainage. However, it is adaptable and can thrive in modified habitats.
- Predators
- large birds of prey, snakes, and mammals such as foxes
- Defense Mechanisms
- The Hadada Ibis can use its loud calls to alert others of danger and may also take flight to escape predators.
- Compatible Animals
- other wading birds, ducks
- Found in Zoos
- Common