Peru Bird Species VII: Puna Ibis

The Puna Ibis (Plegadis ridgwayi) is a species of wading bird in the family Threskiornithidae, found in the high Andes of Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina. It typically inhabits altitudes of 3,200 to 4,500 meters, in wetlands, marshes, and lagoons of the puna ecosystem. It is also found in coastal wetlands seasonally.

Physical Characteristics

The Puna Ibis has a dark plumage with iridescent green and purple tones, especially visible in sunlight. It features a long, slender, downward-curved bill, adapted for probing mud, and dark legs suitable for wading in shallow water.

Habitat and Seasonal Movement

Although primarily a high-Andean species, the Puna Ibis makes altitudinal migrations. Between May and September, during the dry season in the highlands, it descends to the Peruvian coast, where it inhabits wetlands close to sea level. While the exact distances of its movements are not well documented, it is known to travel long distances in search of suitable feeding areas.

Diet

It feeds on insects, aquatic invertebrates, and plant material, using its curved bill to forage in mud and shallow water. It is a versatile and efficient feeder in both highland and coastal wetlands.

Human Interaction

In areas around Lake Titicaca, some indigenous Uros communities have domesticated the Puna Ibis for meat and eggs.

Conservation Status

Classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, the Puna Ibis is not currently under significant threat. However, its survival is tied to the preservation of Andean and coastal wetland ecosystems.

Source: Wikipedia

Photo: Holmes Pantoja, Birds Hotel Molino, Birding Tours Peru