Geronticus calvus

(Boddaert, 1783)

Vernacular names
English : Southern bald ibis
French : Ibis du Cap

Classification
Class : Aves
Order : Pelecaniformes
Family : Threskiornithidae
Notes : No subspecies known.

Identification
This species can reach a body length of 78 cm. Maximum weight is unknown. Plumage is glossy black with strong green to blue sheen and a conspicuous purple wing patch. Head bald with salmon-pink face and bright red bill and cap.

Range and habitat
This species occurs in Southern Africa and is restricted to the highlands of eastern South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland. Found in high altitude grasslands and cultivated areas. Nests in cliffs.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : VULNERABLE
CITES : Appendix II
Status : The species has declined alarmingly in South Africa because of habitat loss and intensive humane consumption of eggs. Recolonises some areas.
Ex-Situ Programs : SSP in America

Observation

 

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