Learn 100 Common Valley Birds Blog Post Species #74/100

Few things on earth fill us with as much delight as birds, and knowing them by name only adds to our pleasure. In California’s Central Valley, with only a little bit of effort, anyone can learn 100 local bird species. Especially since on a daily basis Valley Residents come in contact with at least a dozen species that most recognize, but may not know the name of. The intent of this blog is for followers to learn about and be able to identify 100 common valley birds.
A Reflections of the Natural World Blog Post Series by Jim Gain

WHAT’S IN A NAME

White-faced Ibis – Plegadis chihi
Name Roots: (Greek. plegadis, “a sickle or scythe” – chihi, [a South American name])

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS

The White-faced Ibis has a long decurved bill. In breeding plumage, it is overall dark with iridescent green and reddish tones on adults with a broad white border to its reddish face and red eyes. The colors become more subdued in winter and the white face border disappears.

AN INTERESTING OR UNUSUAL FACT

Similar to bowerbirds, White-faced Ibises sometimes incorporate human-made objects they’ve found, including cigarette lighters, empty shotgun shells, plastic dolls, and hair combs into their nests.

DISTRIBUTION STATUS IN THE CENTRAL VALLEY

The White-faced Ibis is a Fairly Common Winter Visitor in California’s Central Valley and can be found in Freshwater Wetlands, Flooded Fields and Grasslands.

eBird Bar Charts & Map Grid

Previous Learn 100 Common Valley Birds Posts

• Northern Pintail
• Say’s Phoebe
• Cinnamon Teal
• Phainopepla
• Sandhill Crane