NORTHERN BALD IBIS (Geronticus eremita)

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Description: With its bald red head, black straggly crest and long curved bill, the northern bald ibis is a striking bird. It forages along waterways and wetlands where it uses its bill to probe the soft ground for insects and small animals. This ibis was once found throughout North Africa, Southern Europe and the Middle East, but is now found only in small pockets along the Northwest African coast and in western Asia. It is considered one of the world's most critically endangered bird species.

IUCN Status: Critically Endangered
USFWS Status: Endangered
Major Threats: Human persecution and habitat loss
Habitat: Barren semi-desert and rocky areas
Location: Northwest Africa and western Asia
Diet: Insects and other small animals