MADAGASCAR CRESTED IBIS
Lophotibis cristata
Near Threatened
STATUS
Near Threatened
SIZE
20 inches (50 cm) length
HABITAT
Forest and Woodland
DIET
Insects, worms, mollusks, crustaceans, frogs, fish,
small reptiles
LIFESTYLE
Diurnal
Terrestrial
Social
THREATS
Habitat Loss
Hunting
INTERESTING FACTS
Madagascar crested ibises use their long, curved beak to probe leaf litter on the forest floor or in water and mud in marshy areas to hunt for food. Sensitive spots at the tip of the bill can sense movement and vibrations.
This ibis species is one of the largest birds found in Madagascar’s forests.
They have slight webbing between their toes, which helps them wade in muddy streams and marshes.
Characteristics
Madagascar’s native ibis makes a memorable impression with its elongated beak, rich colors, and long-feathered crest. The bold white of its wings is especially noticeable in flight, and in addition to the creamy plumes on its crown, it has a drape of glossy, iridescent green feathers down the nape of its neck that can also be puffed out to striking advantage. Its sturdy, long legs and spreading toes are well designed for sauntering along the forest floor or in marshes while on the hunt for food.
Foods and Feeding
The Madagascar crested ibis spends most of its time on the ground, and it forages on the forest floor for insects, worms, larvae, and small reptiles. It also wades through marshes and ponds to feed on crustaceans, mollusks, fish, and frogs, moving its beak in the water to locate food. The birds often forage in pairs or small groups.
Behavior
These ibises are social and active during they day. At dawn and dusk, they fly over the trees, making a loud, far-carrying call to communicate with the colony, and they may roost in groups, sometimes with other bird species. If startled, they raise their long head crest and puff out the feathers on their neck and chest, perhaps to seem larger and more imposing.
Habitat Use
The Madagascar crested ibis inhabits all types of woodland, including rainforest in the north and east, and dry forest in the south and west. It is sometimes found in mangroves along the coasts. The birds are somewhat adaptable; they have been observed in secondary woodland habitats disturbed by humans, such as in and around vanilla and cacao plantations, but only where these are close to areas of primary habitat.
Reproduction and Life Cycle
Madagascar crested ibises form monogamous pairs that stay together throughout the year. Breeding occurs at the start of the rainy season, and the pair creates a large platform nest made of branches and sticks, often constructed sturdily in the fork of a tree, about 20 to 30 feet (6 to 9 meters) above the forest floor. Two to four eggs are laid, and both parents incubate them for about 22 to 25 days. The chicks are semi-altricial, meaning their eyes are closed and they are covered in down when they hatch. Their eyes open within a few days, they can walk around about three weeks after hatching, and they fledge at about 45 days. Both parents care for the chicks and continue to feed them for up to a month after they fledge.
Conservation and Threats
This species is listed as Near Threatened, and unfortunately, its population is projected to decline in the future. The Madagascar crested ibis is hunted by humans for food, both adult birds and eggs, and overhunting is considered a significant threat. As with many of Madagascar’s species, these birds are also threatened by deforestation and habitat loss. It is hoped that protection of the forests in national parks and nature reserves will make sure this ibis continues to have a home where it can thrive.