How to identify the Hadada Ibis

To correctly identify the Hadada Ibis (Bostrychia hagedash), check each of these features. Birds can be tricky: habit, habitat, and call often confirm a sighting that a single photo cannot.

Size at a glance

Length

65-76 cm

Wingspan

90-100 cm

Weight

1.0-1.3 kg

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   Overall dull grey-brown, but with a striking iridescent sheen on the wings and back, displaying metallic green, bronze, and purple hues, especially in good light. The head and neck are plain grey-brown, often appearing streaky. A prominent white 'moustache' stripe extends from the gape below the eye.

2. 2

   Beak shape

   Shape and color of the bill: a key field mark.

   Long, slender, and strongly decurved (downward-curving) bill, dark grey to blackish with a reddish-orange to red stripe along the upper mandible, particularly noticeable at the base.

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Dark brown.

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Dark grey to blackish.

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   Loud 'haa-haa-dah' call, iridescent plumage, white facial stripe, and reddish stripe on the upper mandible. Its large size and terrestrial foraging habits are also key.

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Juveniles resemble adults but have duller plumage with less iridescence, a shorter and less decurved bill, and a less prominent or absent reddish stripe on the upper mandible. Their legs and feet may also be paler.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

   No significant seasonal changes in plumage. The iridescence may appear more vibrant during breeding season due to better feather condition, but there are no distinct breeding or non-breeding plumages.

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Males and females are generally monomorphic in plumage, though males may be slightly larger than females. No obvious visual differences in the field.

Key field marks

• Vocalization. Listen for the unmistakable, loud, and raucous 'haa-haa-dah' call, especially at dawn, dusk, or when disturbed. This is often the first indication of its presence.
• Plumage and Iridescence. Observe the overall dull grey-brown body, but look for the metallic green, bronze, and purple sheen on the wings and back, particularly in good light. This iridescence is a key feature.
• Facial Markings. Note the prominent white 'moustache' stripe extending from the gape below the eye. This contrasts with the plain grey-brown head.
• Bill Color. Look for the long, decurved bill, which is dark grey to blackish, but with a distinctive reddish-orange stripe along the upper mandible, especially visible at the base.
• Habitat and Behavior. Often seen foraging on lawns, golf courses, parks, and open grassy areas, probing the ground with its bill. Its terrestrial feeding habit and presence in urban areas are good indicators.

Explore the Hadada Ibis