132. Northern Bald Ibis (Geronticus eremita)

Northern Bald Ibises are classed as Critically Endangered by the IUCN, as they survive only in very small isolated breeding populations in Syria and Morocco; they spend the winter further south in Africa. They nest in rocky desert areas near to running water and forage in fields, on dry ground and along river and sea shores. In flight they could be confused with Glossy Ibis but Bald Ibis' feet do not project beyond their tail tip as their legs are much shorter; they are also more likely to soar. The juvenile is a dull greeny black without the feathery neck ruff.

Northern Bald Ibis, ©Agustín Povedano, via Flickr Creative Commons.

Northern Bald Ibis painting.

Haha I was determined that this one would go better than my poor Glossy Ibis effort, as you can see I really went for it this time with somewhat mixed results, I don't think you can fault the enthusiasm at least!