The Scarlet Ibis (Eudocimus ruber) is a striking species of ibis belonging to the Threskiornithidae bird family. This vibrant bird is native to tropical regions of South America and parts of the Caribbean. While sharing a similar form with other ibis species, the Scarlet Ibis stands out with its stunning scarlet coloration, which is almost luminous in quality. It is easily distinguishable by the rich orange-red hue of its plumage, with only the wingtips showcasing a contrasting inky black or occasionally dark blue color.

Appearance

Scarlet ibises are medium-sized wading birds with remarkably brilliant scarlet coloration. Their feathers may show various tints and shades, but only the tips of their wings deviate from their namesake color. A small but reliable marking, these wingtips are a rich inky black (or occasionally dark blue) and are found only on the longest primaries – otherwise, the birds’ coloration is “a vivid orange-red, almost luminous in quality.” Scarlet ibises have red bills and feet however the bill is sometimes blackish, especially toward the end. A juvenile Scarlet ibis is a mix of grey, brown, and white. As it grows, a heavy diet of red crustaceans produces scarlet coloration.

Distribution

Geographically, these medium-sized wading birds are found across South America and various Caribbean islands, including Brazil, Colombia, Guyana, Suriname, Venezuela, and Trinidad and Tobago. They inhabit wetlands, marshes, mudflats, mangroves, freshwater lakes, and rainforests.

Habits and Lifestyle

Scarlet Ibis are highly sociable and live in flocks, often numbering in the dozens. They prefer nesting in close proximity to other pairs, and large colonies can form for added protection. These birds also engage in mixed flocks with storks, spoonbills, egrets, herons, and ducks during feeding and flights. Scarlet Ibis are diurnal and spend their time foraging for insects, scarabs, ground beetles, shrimp, crabs, mollusks, and other crustaceans.

Diet and Nutrition

Scarlet ibises are carnivores and mainly feed on insects, especially scarabs and ground beetles. They also consume shrimp, small crabs, mollusks, and other crustaceans.

Mating Habits

During the breeding season, the Scarlet Ibis engages in serial monogamy. Males attract females through various mating rituals, and they build nests together, typically in simple platforms made of sticks. Females lay clutches of 3 to 5 eggs, which incubate for around 19-23 days. The chicks are altricial and become independent after approximately 75 days.

Population

Population threats

Scarlet ibises have protected status throughout the world, however, despite that, populations of these beautiful birds are declining due to overhunting, collection of eggs, and selling of young as pets. Another main threat to this species is habitat loss due to heavy pollution and the loss of nesting, foraging, and feeding grounds. Scarlet ibises also suffer from the disturbance in breeding and foraging areas because of recreational activities.

Population number

According to the What Bird resource, the total population size of the Scarlet ibis is 100,000 to 150,000 individuals. Currently, this species is classified as Least Concern (LC) on the IUCN Red List but its numbers today are decreasing.