The Andean ibis is a species of bird in the family Threskiornithidae. It is found in grassland and fields in western South America. This species was considered a subspecies of the black-faced ibis, and some taxonomic authorities still consider it so.
Region
Andean Highlands
Typical Environment
Occurs in the high Andes of Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and northern Chile, favoring open puna and high-altitude pastures. It frequents bofedales (Andean wet meadows), fallow fields, and grazed grasslands near water. The species often forages in agricultural landscapes where soil is soft enough to probe. Roosts and nests are placed on cliffs, rocky outcrops, or occasionally tall structures with expansive visibility.
Altitude Range
3000–4800 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Andean ibis is a high-elevation specialist of puna grasslands and agricultural pastures in the central Andes. It was long treated as a subspecies of the black-faced ibis but is now often recognized as a distinct species. Its loud, braying calls carry over open valleys, and the species helps control insect pests by probing for grubs and beetles.
Temperament
wary but often conspicuous in open country
Flight Pattern
strong flier with steady wingbeats followed by short glides
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small groups, sometimes forming loose flocks in productive feeding areas. Monogamous pairs nest on cliffs or rocky ledges, building stick platforms lined with vegetation. Territorial display flights and loud calls are common near nest sites.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are loud, braying or honking calls that carry over long distances. Calls are often given in flight or during social interactions at feeding and roost sites.
