Theristicus caerulescens
The Plumbeous Ibis, *Theristicus caerulescens*, is a striking, medium-sized wading bird endemic to central and eastern South America. Averaging 71-77 cm (28-30 in) in length with a robust body and a wingspan of 100-120 cm (39-47 in), its most distinctive feature is its overall dark, lead-gray (plumbeous) plumage. This dark body sharply contrasts with a prominent buffy-orange breast and a large white patch on the forewing, which is visible both in flight and at rest. Its bare facial skin is da...
This adaptable ibis primarily inhabits open, moist environments such as savannas, grasslands, agricultural fields, and various wetlands including marshes, wet pastures, and riverbanks, generally found at low to moderate elevations.
The diet primarily consists of terrestrial and aquatic invertebrates, including various insects (e.g., grasshoppers, beetles, crickets, larvae), earthworms, and snails, supplemented opportunistically with small vertebrates like frogs, lizards, and occasionally some seeds.
Plumbeous Ibises are diurnal and highly gregarious, often observed foraging in small to large flocks and roosting communally in tall trees. Their primary foraging strategy involves methodically probing soft ground with their long, decurved bills, seeking out hidden invertebrates, often walking sl...
The Plumbeous Ibis is a widespread resident species found throughout central and eastern South America. Its breeding and year-round range extends from eastern Bolivia and central Brazil south through Paraguay, Uruguay, and into northeastern Argentina. Key regions include the vast Pantanal wetland...
Least Concern
- The name "Plumbeous" refers to its distinctive lead-gray plumage, a key identification feature. - Unlike many ibises that strictly favor open mudflats, Plumbeous Ibises are commonly found foraging in damp grasslands and agricultural pastures, often alongside grazing cattle. - Its loud, trumpeti...