The Dazzling Glossy Ibis

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“At distance, Glossy Ibises look uniformly dark, but a close look in good light reveals stunning colors: deep maroon, emerald, bronze, and violet.” (All About Birds)

I was surprised to learn that the Glossy Ibis breeds throughout the world, but “they were almost unknown in the US, even in the 19th century. John James Audubon saw just one in his lifetime” (read and hear more on BirdNote)!

Glossy Ibis Range Map

Though less common than the ubiquitous White Ibis, the beautifully iridescent Glossies are now year-round residents here in southeast Florida and along the East Coast of the U.S. (Audubon)

Above is Audubon’s rendering (Audubon-Birds of America).

And here is a glorious Glossy Ibis I photographed just this morning – I’d say Audubon created quite a good likeness!

Mid-morning bath time 🧼

22 thoughts on “The Dazzling Glossy Ibis”

    • So interesting how different ecosystems, or even just local natural areas, affect birds, AB. These Glossies are very accustomed to people as many visitors frequent the boardwalks daily, walking in very close proximity to their nesting trees and ponds.

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