Lincoln Park Zoo

Common name: Hadada ibis
Latin Name: Bostrychia hagedash

Class: Birds
Order:    Ciconiiformes

Description
A large bird, the hadada ibis has brownish-gray plumage that displays an iridescent green sheen in sunlight.

Range
The hadada ibis can be found widely throughout sub-Saharan Africa.

Status
Common

Habitat
The species occupies grasslands, savannas and wooded streams.

Niche
The hadada ibis uses its large, curved bill to locate prey. The bird hunts by feel in murky streams and mud, grabbing any insects and small lizards it touches. The species gets its name from its distinctive call, a loud “Ha-da-da.”

Life History
Hadada ibis pairs prepare for breeding with mutual bows and displays. The male provides nesting materials, such as sticks and twigs, to the female, who locates her nest at the top of a tall tree or, in urban areas, a telephone pole. Both sexes participate in incubating and bringing food to young.

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