Glossy ibis

Plegadis falcinellus

The glossy ibis (Plegadis falcinellus) is a water bird in the order Pelecaniformes and the ibis and spoonbill family Threskiornithidae.

Family: Ibises and Spoonbills Order: Pelecaniformes Conservation: Least Concern
Glossy ibis

About the Glossy ibis

The glossy ibis (Plegadis falcinellus) is a water bird in the order Pelecaniformes and the ibis and spoonbill family Threskiornithidae. The scientific name derives from Ancient Greek plegados and Latin, falcis, both meaning "sickle" and referring to the distinctive shape of the bill. The historical name black curlew was used for the glossy ibis in Norfolk at least until the early 19th century, and this name also appears in Anglo-Saxon literature. Yalden and Albarella do not mention this species as occurring in medieval England.

Fun Facts About Glossy ibis

  • The scientific name derives from Ancient Greek plegados and Latin, falcis, both meaning "sickle" and referring to the distinctive shape of the bill.
  • The historical name black curlew was used for the glossy ibis in Norfolk at least until the early 19th century, and this name also appears in Anglo-Saxon literature.

Conservation Status

The Glossy ibis is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. This species is currently stable and not at significant risk of population decline.

View on IUCN Red List →

Taxonomy & Classification

OrderPelecaniformes
FamilyIbises and Spoonbills
GenusPlegadis
SpeciesPlegadis falcinellus

Range & Habitat

Range map of Glossy ibis

🛍️ Glossy ibis Gifts & Merch

Show your love for glossy ibiss! Find t-shirts, hoodies, stickers, mugs, and more at our store.

Browse Glossy ibis Merch →

Related Species

Other species in the Ibises and Spoonbills family: