Become a Zoollower, now with 3x2 for the first members. Find out here!

Our ticket sales page is temporarily under maintenance. To make your purchase, please log in again in a few hours, we'll be waiting for you!

African Sacred Ibis

Scientific name:  Threskiornis aethiopicus
Class:  Birds
Continent:  Africa
Habitat:  Ríos, marismas, pantanos y lagunas
Diet:  Carnívoro
Weight:  1,5 kg
Size:  65 - 80 cm
altphoto altphoto altphoto altphoto

Meet the African Sacred Ibis!

The African Sacred Ibis has black and white plumage on its head and tail. It is named after the god Thoth, whom it embodied. It was domesticated and kept in temples and parks, where the ancient Egyptians worshipped it. When a Sacred Ibis died, it would be mummified and received ritual burial. Today, however, these birds have disappeared from Egypt.

They are found mainly in the streams and lake areas of southern Africa and Asia. They feed mainly on insects and worms, as well as crustaceans and small reptiles, which they capture with their long curved bill.

What are its habits?

The ibis is a  carnivorous bird; its diet is very similar to that of storks or marabous. It feeds on insects and worms, as well as crustaceans and small reptiles, which it captures with its long bill.

A diurnal and gregarious bird, it inhabits the banks of  rivers, lakes and stagnant waters. It sometimes forms very numerous colonies. It builds nests in trees. Chicks are born white, except for their neck and head, which are black and featherless. Incubation lasts about 28 to 29 days and is carried out by both mother and father.

Conservation
Extinct
Extinct in the wild
Critically endangered
Endangered
Vulnerable
Near threatened
Least concern
Insufficient data
Not evaluated

DID YOU KNOW ...

The young of the Sacred Ibis leave the nest 20 days after birth to meet in a kind of nursery. Before the second month of life they acquire their independence.

Come to Zoo from

€27.90

€19.90

Covid Info
Learn more about some of the Zoo's animals in a unique adventure

Learn more about some of the Zoo's animals in a unique adventure