The Ibises (9 in all) were foraging actively near the path. Light was from the right side, but sometimes one would turn just right to reveal the shimmering greens and related hues we all love. These birds were all in basic (winter) plumage, and Patti suggested they matched some photos of subadult birds, either hatch year or perhaps second winter. The adult White-faced Ibis has a red iris, whereas these appeared amber in color.
A crop of the above photo below shows the iris color better. The birds foraged for invertebrates much like a a godwit or curlew, probing vigorously in the moist brushy areas close to the trail, rather than in the water.
Another shot shows the sickle-shaped bill better, as well as the long toes that help in marshy areas. Plegadis translates as a sickle, or scythe.
One last shot of the iris, cropped and enhanced from another photo.
None of the birds we observed exhibited any of the rich chestnut hues seen in alternate plumage birds, and none showed any red in the iris. Opinions welcomed as to the age.
So, if a group of Emus is called a "mob", what would be the term for a group of Ibises?
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