The black-headed ibis, also known as the Oriental white ibis, Indian white ibis, and black-necked ibis, is a species of wading bird of the ibis family Threskiornithidae which breeds in the South and Southeast Asia from India to the west and as far east as Japan. It is the only native ibis species in its range that has an overall white plumage with a black neck and head. The down-curved beak and legs are also black. Though often referred to as a wetland species, the black-headed ibis forages in a range of natural and man-made habitats. This species of ibis nests only during the rainy season.
Region
South and Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Found across the Indian subcontinent and parts of Southeast Asia in freshwater and brackish wetlands, including marshes, lakes, river edges, and estuaries. It frequently exploits man-made habitats such as rice fields, irrigation canals, sewage lagoons, and flooded pastures. During dry periods it may forage on damp fields and mudflats far from large water bodies. Roosts and nests colonially in tall trees near water, often alongside storks, herons, and cormorants.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also called the Oriental white ibis or Indian white ibis, it is the only native ibis in much of South Asia with a white body and a bare black head and neck. It often nests in mixed heronries during the rainy season and readily uses human-made wetlands like rice paddies and sewage ponds. In flight, the black primaries show as striking black wingtips, aiding identification. It is tolerant of people but declines where large wetland complexes and colony trees are lost.
A black-headed ibis in flight over the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary in Karnataka, India.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
strong flier with steady wingbeats and short glides; flies with neck and legs extended
Social Behavior
Often forages in small to large flocks and frequently associates with other waders and egrets. Nests colonially during the rainy season, building platform nests in tall trees near water. Both parents share incubation and chick-rearing duties.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Generally quiet away from colonies; at nesting sites it utters grunts, croaks, and harsh quacks. Calls are guttural and pig-like, used in displays and alarm.
