White Ibis
The White Ibis (Eudocimus albus) is one of the most numerous wading birds in Florida and is common elsewhere in the southeast. The White Ibis is highly sociable at all seasons, roosting and feeding in flocks, and nesting in large colonies. Immature White Ibis are dark brownish with a white belly, white rump, and curved red bill. The White Ibis is an excellent example of the colonial waterbird. These birds nest in huge colonies in fresh water marshes or along the ocean coast. Researchers have counted 60,000-80,000 individuals in one colony in the Everglades National Park, Florida. During the day, White Ibis may fly up to 15 miles or more to find small crustaceans, fish, frogs, and aquatic insects to eat and to feed their young. When breeding, the bill, face, and legs turn scarlet. White Ibis can be found along the coast of North Carolina to Florida and Texas.