ANIMAL: Black-Faced Ibis Theristicus melanopis Type of Animal: Ibis Habitat: Grassland, pastures, fields, marshy areas, river margins, open forest, cliffs near human settlements, cliffs/trees in towns/cities, dry rangeland, dry upland bunch-grass heaths, open beaches, coastal brackish lagoons, highlands, meadows, lake margins, open valleys, wetlands, coastal flats, damp valleys w/ rushes, lake shores, river shores, arid ranch land, sandy areas, shallow rivers, human-altered landscapes, urban areas Location(s): W & S South America Appearance: Large ibis w/ buff lower chest/neck/head, cinnamon crown/nape, gray chest-band, black belly/flight feathers, long hooked blackish bill, red legs, juveniles have rufous head Food/Diet: Insects, insect larvae, worms, snails, mussels, amphibians, eggs, rodents, small birds, lizards, carrion, refuse Status in Wild: Stable Conservation: Breeding in zoos & wildlife centers. Population in Peru more closely monitored. Lifestyle: Groups range from 20-100 birds. Breed in colonies. Additional Info: Called: Male: Cock Female: Hen Young: Chick Group: Colony/Congregation Weight: Male: 3 lbs Female: 2.4 lbs Gestation: 1 month Life Span: 15-30 years Height: 2.3-2.5 ft, same for both sexes Body Length: 2.3-2.5 ft, same for both sexes Tail Length: 3 in, same for both sexes Main predators of adults are raptors, snakes, felids, & canids. Crows, night-herons, gulls, & skunks prey on chicks. Use long hooked bill to probe ground for prey. They make resonant and far-carrying calls. Nests can be found on ground, in low vegetation, in rocky gullies, on cliffs, or in trees. Often nest among other bird species, especially cormorants & night-herons (latter occasionally prey on ibis chicks). Breed in spring & summer. Chicks fledge at 1.5 months but stay w/ parents for 1.5-2 months longer. Fun Fact(s): Beneficial to farmers due to role in pest control. Long, broad wings allow them to soar effortlessly. Known to reuse old nest sites, especially at higher elevations.
