General Description

The Glossy Ibis is the smallest ibis species in Australia. Body uniform dark purple-brown to red-brown, wings have a green sheen. Bill long and curves downward. Young birds have narrow white streaks on their head and neck. Body up to 54 cm long.

Biology

Glossy Ibis nest in small groups or large colonies, often with other species. They feed in shallow water on insects and insect larvae, worms, molluscs and crustaceans and sometimes small snakes, birds, fish and frogs.

Distribution

Mainland Australia except western deserts.

Habitat

Freshwater wetlands and swamps.

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