Meet The Rare Bird – Black-headed Ibis

Black-headed Ibis

This elegant wetland bird stands out with its white body, black head and graceful presence across India’s marshy landscapes.

Rare and Declining Species

Once common, the Black-headed Ibis now faces threats, reducing numbers and placing it among vulnerable bird species today.

Iconic Black Head

Its featherless black head and long curved bill help it forage expertly in muddy wetlands for hidden prey.

Habitat

The species thrives in marshes, lakes, paddy fields and riverbanks of South Asian Wetlands, depending deeply on healthy wetland ecosystems for survival.

Unique Breeding Colonies

They nest in large colonies on tall trees, sharing space with storks, herons and other wetland bird species.

Parenting with Patience

Both parents help incubate eggs, protecting their chicks from predators and harsh weather until they become strong.

Calls

Though mostly silent, the ibis produces low grunts and croaks during breeding season, communicating quietly within their colonies.

Flight

Black-headed Ibises soar elegantly with slow wingbeats, forming loose flocks while gliding above wetlands during foraging flights.

Symbol of Wetland Health

Presence of these ibises signals thriving wetlands, making them essential indicators of ecological balance and habitat quality.

Conservation Efforts

Protected wetland zones, awareness campaigns and community participation are helping stabilise ibis populations in several key regions.