Geronticus eremita

(Linnaeus, 1758)

Vernacular names
English : Northern bald ibis
French : Ibis chauve

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

Identification
The species grows to 80 cm for a weight of 1,5 kg and a wingspan of 135 cm. Plumage entirely black with strong green iridescence and a patch of purple-violet iridescence on wing. Shaggy crest on nape. Naked pink to red face, red bill.

Range and habitat
This species is extinct in most of its range. It has been reintroduced in south Spain. Last wild colony in Syria, winters in Ethiopia. Lives in arid and semi arid areas with rocky cliffs.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : ENDANGERED
CITES : Appendix I
Status : The species was wiped out to near extinction by human disturbance, hunting and extensive use of DDT leading to poisoning.
Ex-Situ Programs : SSP in America, EEP in Europe

Observation

 

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