Hadada Ibis

The hadada ibis (Bostrychia hagedash) is a small species of ibis found across most of sub-Saharan Africa. It reaches a length of 65 cm (26 in). The overall appearance is brownish-grey. It has a glossy, iridescent plumage, primarily displaying rich hues of green and purple when it catches the light. The bird’s long, downward-curved bill, is dark with bright red coloration on top of the upper mandible. It is well known for its distinctive and loud calls, which often comes across as “haa-haa-haa-de-dah”. This call can be heard from early morning to late in the evening (sometimes even at night), and has inspired the name of the species.

The hadada ibis thrives in a variety of environments. While it naturally prefers open grasslands and wetlands, it has shown to flourish in urban areas, including parks and large gardens. The diet includes various insects, earthworms, small lizards, amphibians, and small fish. Its foraging behavior is characterized by its methodical probing into moist soil with its long bill, an adaptation that allows it to locate and extract its prey with remarkable efficiency. In urban landscapes, the hadada Ibis is frequently observed foraging in well-watered lawns and manicured gardens, indicating its ability to exploit new food sources in modified environments.

Hadada ibises are often seen in flocks and they’re monogamous during the breeding season, forming strong pair bonds. The breeding season varies depending on the region. However, it generally breeds during the wet season, as this period provides abundant food resources necessary for raising their young. In many parts of its range, this corresponds to the period from March to May, and again from August to November. During the breeding season, hadada Ibises are known for their increased vocal activity and conspicuous nesting behaviors. They build large stick nests in trees, often near water bodies, in both secluded and urban areas. A typical clutch involves 2-4 eggs, and both parents are involved in incubating the eggs and caring for the chicks. The young typically fledge about 40 to 45 days after hatching. Once fledged, the young ibises may still remain dependent on their parents for a short while, learning to forage and fly.

The hadada Ibis does not face immediate threats of extinction. However, the ongoing challenges of habitat destruction and the impacts of urban expansion are potential concerns for the future of this species. It is essential to monitor these changes to ensure the continued survival of the hadada Ibis in both its natural and urban habitats. It is listed as least concern on the IUCN Red List.