Buff-necked Ibis look-alikes
Theristicus caudatus
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Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the Buff-necked Ibis. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
Birds to compare
Green Ibis
Mesembrinibis cayennensis
Key differences
The Green Ibis is smaller, entirely dark iridescent green, lacks the buff neck and white breast band of the Buff-necked Ibis, and has a less strongly decurved bill. Its call is also very different, a distinctive 'ha-ha-ha-ha'.
Plumbeous Ibis
Theristicus caerulescens
Key differences
The Plumbeous Ibis has a greyish-blue body, a buffy-white forehead, and a shaggy crest, but lacks the extensive buff neck and prominent white breast band of the Buff-necked Ibis. Its legs are redder, and its bill is less decurved.
Black-faced Ibis
Theristicus melanopis
Key differences
The Black-faced Ibis is very similar in overall structure and plumage pattern but has a black face and throat, contrasting with its buff neck. Its range is primarily in southern South America (Chile, Argentina), with some overlap in Bolivia and southern Brazil. The Buff-necked Ibis has an entirely buff head and neck.
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