Straw-necked ibis
Scientific name: Threskiornis spinicollis
IUCN listed as: Least Concern
Learn before you visit!
Here are some facts about the species – Discover what they eat, find out about their natural habitat, see what they like to do, and more… Set the reading style to suit you too, everyday speak or something aimed towards children.
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Diet
Straw-necked ibises primarily feed on insects and small invertebrates, such as beetles, grasshoppers, and caterpillars. They also eat small vertebrates like frogs and fish, as well as plant material like seeds. These birds forage in wetlands, grasslands, and agricultural fields, often using their long, curved bills to probe into the soil for food. Their diet helps control pest populations, making them beneficial to agriculture. This varied diet ensures they receive a wide range of nutrients necessary for their survival.
Straw-necked ibises eat bugs like beetles and grasshoppers, as well as frogs and fish. They also eat seeds and plants. They use their long bills to find food in the ground. This helps farmers by controlling pests.
Breeding
Breeding for straw-necked ibises is highly variable and depends on water availability. They usually breed from August to December in southwestern Australia, but breeding can occur at any time after heavy rains in other regions. They build large, rough nests of sticks and plant materials among reeds or trees over water. Both parents incubate the 2-5 eggs for about 24-25 days and feed the chicks through regurgitation. Chicks leave the nest about 35 days after hatching but continue to be fed by parents for up to two weeks.
Straw-necked ibises breed when there is enough water. They usually build nests from August to December. Both parents help keep the 2-5 eggs warm and feed the chicks. The chicks leave the nest after about a month but still get fed for two more weeks.
Habitat
Straw-necked ibises are found in a variety of wetland habitats, including marshes, lakes, rivers, and agricultural fields across Australia, New Guinea, and parts of Indonesia. They prefer areas with abundant water sources, which provide ample food and nesting sites. Habitat destruction and changes in water management pose threats to their populations. Conservation efforts focus on preserving wetland habitats and ensuring sustainable water practices.
Straw-necked ibises live in wetlands, lakes, rivers, and fields in Australia, New Guinea, and Indonesia. They need lots of water to find food and build nests. Losing their homes and changing water levels can hurt them. Protecting wetlands is important for their survival.
At the zoo
In zoos, straw-necked ibises are provided with environments that replicate their natural habitats, including water sources and vegetation. They are fed a diet similar to their wild diet, including insects, small vertebrates, and plant materials. Zoos play an important role in educating the public about these birds and their ecological roles. Breeding programs in zoos help ensure healthy populations and genetic diversity. Observing straw-necked ibises in captivity helps raise awareness about the importance of wetland conservation.
In zoos, straw-necked ibises live in places like their natural habitats. They eat insects, small animals, and plants. Zoos teach people about these birds and help protect them. Breeding programs in zoos keep the birds healthy and diverse.
Behaviour
Straw-necked ibises are highly social and often seen in large flocks. They are excellent fliers and can travel long distances in search of food and water. These birds are also known for their loud, distinctive calls used for communication within flocks. They display cooperative behaviours during breeding and foraging, which helps them thrive in various environments. Their adaptability and social structure are key to their success in the wild.
Straw-necked ibises live in large groups and can fly long distances. They use loud calls to talk to each other. They work together when breeding and finding food. Their social behaviour helps them survive in different places.
Fun facts
- Unique Feathers: Named for the straw-like feathers on their necks.
- Pest Controllers: Help control insect populations in agricultural areas.
- Long-distance Fliers: Capable of flying long distances in search of food and water.
- Social Birds: Often found in large, noisy flocks.
- Variable Breeding: Breeding season depends on water availability.
- Straw Feathers: They have straw-like feathers on their necks.
- Insect Eaters: Help control bugs on farms.
- Great Flyers: Can fly long distances to find food.
- Group Living: Live in big, noisy groups.
- Breeding Season: Breed when there is enough water.
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