The ibisbill is a bird related to the waders, but sufficiently distinctive to merit its own family Ibidorhynchidae. It is grey with a white belly, red legs and long down-curved bill, and a black face and black breast band. It occurs on the shingle riverbanks of the high plateau of central Asia and the Himalayas.
Region
Himalayas and Central Asian uplands
Typical Environment
Occurs along wide, braided, clear rivers and streams with extensive shingle and gravel bars across the Himalayas and the high plateaus of Central Asia, including much of the Tibetan Plateau and adjoining ranges. Prefers sparsely vegetated, open riverbanks and islands with shallow riffles. Breeds at higher elevations on broad gravel beds and descends to lower valleys in winter. Typically absent from densely vegetated banks, standing wetlands, and coastal areas.
Altitude Range
300–4400 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Ibisbill is so distinctive among waders that it is placed in its own family, Ibidorhynchidae. Its cryptic grey, black, and white patterning blends perfectly with the shingle and gravel of mountain riverbeds. It nests in a simple scrape on gravel bars and is highly specialized for life along fast-flowing, braided rivers. Habitat alteration and river regulation can negatively affect local populations.
River Kosi, outskirts of Jim Corbett National Park, India
Pochu River, Punakha, Bhutan
Jia Bhorali River, Nameri National Park, India
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
strong flier with steady, purposeful wingbeats; flies low over rivers
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, especially in the breeding season. Nests are shallow scrapes on gravel bars, often close to water. Both parents participate in incubation and brood care; chicks are precocial and mobile soon after hatching.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Vocalizations are clear, far-carrying whistled notes, often given in series. Calls can sound fluty or piping and are used in territorial and contact contexts.
