Black-headed ibis

The black-headed ibis (Threskiornis melanocephalus) is a large wading bird widely found across South and Southeast Asia, including Sri Lanka, where it is commonly seen in wetlands and agricultural landscapes. It is easily identified by its pure white body contrasting with a bare black head and neck, along with a long, curved black bill and black legs. Adults grow to about 65–75 cm in length, and during the breeding season they may develop subtle changes such as reddish skin under the wings, a bluish tint on the head, or decorative plumes. Unlike many other birds, it is mostly silent, communicating only through low grunts at nesting sites. Although strongly associated with wetlands such as marshes, lakes, and rivers, this species is highly adaptable and frequently uses rice fields, irrigation canals, grazing lands, and even urban areas like garbage dumps and sewage lines for feeding. It mainly eats fish, frogs, insects, and other small aquatic animals, spending much of its time foraging in shallow water or open fields. The black-headed ibis breeds during the monsoon season, nesting in colonies on tall trees near water, often alongside other waterbirds. Despite being widespread, populations in some parts of its range are declining due to habitat loss, making the conservation of wetlands and nesting sites increasingly important.