Nipponia nippon
The Crested Ibis, `Nipponia nippon`, is a medium-sized wading bird renowned for its striking, delicate plumage and inspiring conservation story. Measuring approximately 76 cm (30 in) in length with a wingspan of 130-140 cm (51-55 in), its most distinctive feature is its salmon-pink or rosy-pink body plumage, which deepens in intensity during the breeding season. A shaggy, erectile crest of feathers adorns the back of its head, complementing the bare, reddish-orange facial skin that extends fr...
Primarily inhabits freshwater wetlands, including rice paddies, rivers, marshes, and reservoirs, often adjacent to tall mature forests for nesting. Nests are typically built in high trees at elevations ranging from lowlands up to approximately 1,500 meters.
Feeds primarily on aquatic invertebrates such as crabs, insects, mollusks, and earthworms, supplemented by small fish, frogs, and other amphibians. They forage by probing in soft mud and shallow water or gleaning from wet ground.
Crested Ibises are diurnal, spending their days foraging and roosting communally in tall trees at night. Their foraging strategy involves wading in shallow water or mud, probing with their long, sensitive bills to locate prey. During the breeding season, they form loose colonies, with pairs defen...
Historically, the Crested Ibis had a wide distribution across East Asia, including Japan, Korea, northeastern China, and parts of southeastern Siberia. However, by the late 20th century, its range had contracted dramatically due to habitat loss, hunting, and pesticide use. The last wild populatio...
Endangered
- In 1981, the global wild population of Crested Ibises dwindled to just seven individuals found in China, making it one of the most critically endangered birds on Earth. - The species was historically revered in Japan as the 'Toki,' a symbol of longevity and good fortune, often appearing in art ...