Puna Ibis

About the Puna Ibis

The puna ibis (Plegadis ridgwayi) is a species of waterbird in the family Threskiornithidae, spoonbills and ibises. It can be found in Ecuador, Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, and Peru. It can be found in the altiplano and puna regions of the Andean highlands, inhabiting wetlands such as swamps, marshes and lakes, at an elevation of 3,000 to 4,500 metres (9,840 to 14,760 ft). They migrate down to sea level to forage in coastal wetlands as well.

The puna ibis is a medium-sized waterbird, weighing 478–608 g (16.9–21.4 oz) and about 56–61 cm (22–24 in) tall. They can be identified by their dark purple-brown bodies, long neck, and red downward-curved bill. Their plumage has iridescence to it, offering a purple or green sheen. While there is little sexual dimorphism between male and females, a breeding adult can be recognized by its dark chestnut head and neck, with a red face and, and nonbreeding or immature individuals have white streaks on their head and neck, with a duller face. Males are also larger than females.

This species lives in wetlands such as marshes, lagoons, and shallow lakes across the high Andes. This species mainly feeds on invertebrates, but may also snack... Wikipedia →