• red-naped-ibis red naped ibis

    red naped ibis

    Pseudibis papillosa
    BASIC:
    • Size (cm): 68 - 68 cm
    • Size (inches): 27 - 27 in
    • Primary Color: Black
    • Secondary Color: Red
    • Bird Type: Waders
    • Beak Type: Not specified
    LOCAL NAMES:
    • gujarati: કાળી કાંકણસાર
    • hindi: करांकुल, काला बाझ
    • kannada: ಕರಿ ಕೆಂಬರಲು
    • malayalam: ചെന്തലയൻ അരിവാൾകൊക്കൻ
    • marathi: काळा शराटी, काळा कंकर
    • nepali: कर्रा साँवरी
    • punjabi: ਕਾਲਾ ਬੁੱਜ
    • sanskrit: कृष्ण आटि, रक्तशीर्ष आटि
    • tamil: கருந்தலை அரிவாள் மூக்கன்

    Introduction

    The Red-naped Ibis (Pseudibis papillosa), also commonly known as the Indian Black Ibis or simply the Black Ibis, is a striking member of the ibis family. Native to the plains of the Indian Subcontinent, this bird is a unique wader that breaks the mold by being less dependent on water than its relatives. Whether soaring over riverbeds or foraging in dry agricultural fields, the Red-naped Ibis is a distinctive sight for birdwatchers across the region.

    Physical Appearance

    The Red-naped Ibis is a medium-sized bird with a stocky build and several defining physical traits:

    • Size: Adults typically reach a length of 68 cm.
    • Plumage: The body is predominantly dark brown to black, featuring a beautiful green-and-purple iridescent gloss.
    • Head: They possess a naked black head adorned with a patch of crimson red warty skin on the crown and nape.
    • Shoulder Patch: A prominent white patch on the shoulder is a key diagnostic feature, visible even when the bird is at rest.
    • Bill and Legs: They have a relatively stout, downcurved bill and dull reddish legs.
    • Immature Birds: Younger individuals are dark brown with feathered heads and lack the characteristic red nape.

    Habitat

    Unlike many other ibises that stay strictly near wetlands, the Red-naped Ibis is highly adaptable to various environments:

    • Wetlands: Frequently found near lakes, marshes, and riverbeds.
    • Agriculture: Commonly seen on irrigated farmlands and harvested fields.
    • Dry Lands: Often observed in dry fields and open plains a considerable distance from any water source.

    Diet

    As an omnivorous forager, the Red-naped Ibis has a diverse diet that includes:

    • Insects: Beetles, grasshoppers, and various larvae found in the soil.
    • Small Vertebrates: Frogs, lizards, and other small creatures.
    • Grains: They are known to supplement their diet with grain from agricultural fields.
    • Carrion: Occasionally scavenges on organic matter.

    Breeding Nesting

    Breeding behavior in the Red-naped Ibis is marked by vocalization and specific nesting habits:

    • Nesting Sites: They typically build their nests at the top of large trees or tall palms.
    • Nest Structure: The nest is a large platform constructed from sticks and twigs.
    • Vocalization: They are known to be very noisy during the breeding season, emitting loud, harsh calls.
    • Social Structure: While they forage in loose groups, they are generally solitary nesters or nest in small, scattered groups.

    Behavior

    The Red-naped Ibis is usually seen in loose groups. It is a terrestrial feeder, walking slowly across fields while probing the ground with its sensitive, downcurved bill. In flight, they appear bulky and broad-winged, with their feet barely extending beyond the tail. Their loud, screaming calls are a common sound in the rural Indian landscape, particularly during the early morning and late evening.

    Conservation Status

    The Red-naped Ibis is currently categorized as a species of Least Concern by the IUCN. Because they are well-adapted to human-altered landscapes like farms and fields, their populations remain relatively stable across their natural range in the Indian Subcontinent.

    Interesting Facts

    • The "warts" on the red nape are actually patches of thickened skin.
    • It is one of the few ibis species that is not strictly bound to aquatic habitats.
    • In ancient times, they were often associated with agricultural cycles in rural India.
    • The white wing patch serves as a flash signal to other birds during flight.
    • Unlike the Glossy Ibis, the Red-naped Ibis has a much heavier and stockier build.

    Tips Birdwatchers

    If you are looking to spot a Red-naped Ibis, try these practical tips:

    • Check Dry Fields: Look for them in fallow agricultural lands away from water.
    • Listen for Noisy Calls: Follow their loud, distinct calls, especially during the breeding season.
    • Observe at Sunset: They often gather in large trees to roost as the sun goes down.
    • Use Binoculars: Look for the white shoulder patch to distinguish them from other dark birds like the Glossy Ibis or Black-headed Ibis.

    Conclusion

    The Red-naped Ibis is an iconic bird of the Indian plains, blending into both natural wetlands and man-made farmlands. With its striking red crown, iridescent feathers, and loud personality, it remains a fascinating subject for ornithologists and casual birdwatchers alike. Understanding their unique habitat preferences and behaviors helps us appreciate the incredible biodiversity of the Indian Subcontinent.

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