The Hadeda Ibis - Bostrychia hagedash, is found in Sub-Saharan Africa.

It is found throughout open grassland, savanna and wetlands as well as urban parks, school fields, green corridors and large gardens.

Description

It is a large dark brown Ibis with a white "moustache", glossy greenish purple wings, a large black bill with a red stripe on the upper mandible, and grey/blackish legs.

Call

It has a distinctively loud and recognisable haa-haa-haa-de-dah call that is often heard when the birds are flying or are startled, hence the name.

Food

It feeds mainly on earthworms, using its long bill to probe soft soil. It also eats larger insects, spiders, snails and small lizards.

Conservation status – Least Concern

Widespread and common throughout its large range and is evaluated as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Birdwatching

This striking Ibis can be seen on the following Aves Birding Tours/Safaris/Adventures: -

Aves Arid Birding Tour / Safari.

Aves Eastern Cape Birding Tour / Safari.

Aves Highlands / Tembe Birding Tour / Safari.

Aves KZN Birding Tour / Safari.

Aves North East Birding Tour / Safari.

Aves North West Birding Tour / Safari.

Aves Western Cape Birding Tour / Safari.

Aves West Coast Birding Tour / Safari.