entry smap 238: glossy ibis

Flocks of Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus may be seen around the globe, in Asia, Africa, the Americas and Australia and more. these shots are from a wetlands in Maharashtra, India. the tips of their beaks are able to sense movement and vibrations as they probe the mud in search of food, mainly crustaceans, insects, worms, frogs etc.

they are easy to identify with their dark color, medium large size and the long curved beaks. their colors are dull browns in the shade but when the sun shines on them they display wonderful glossy greens and bronze tones.

during their long migration the flock tends to form a v shape or wedge but locally for short distances the flight formations are more random

it's a sight to see them taking off and flying around in circles before eventually landing nearby where they took off from.