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Species in News: Northern Bald Ibis
Context:
The northern bald ibis, once found across North Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and Europe, was hunted to near extinction by the 17th century. Conservation efforts over the last two decades have helped revive the species.
- The population in Central Europe has grown from zero to nearly 300.
About Northern Bald Ibis:
- Scientific Name: Geronticus Eremita
- Common Names: Bald ibis, Hermit ibis, or Waldrapp’s ibis.
- Family: Threskiornithidae
- Genus: Geronticus
- IUCN Status: Endangered (formerly Critically Endangered)
- It is a migratory unique blackish ibis with a bare red face and throat, and long quills that form a ragged mane. Both males and females look alike with no distinct sexual dimorphism.
- Habitat: Semi-arid deserts, steppe regions, rocky areas or cliffs near streams or rivers.
- Distribution: Two main wild populations—one in Morocco and a relict population in Syria and the Middle East.
- They use their long, slender beaks to probe the ground for insects, earthworms, and other invertebrates.
- Diet: Including insects, spiders, worms, small birds, fish, small mammals, reptiles, and carrion.
- Threats: Hunting, habitat loss, pesticide poisoning.
- Conservation Efforts: Reintroduction Projects are part of significant conservation projects in Europe, including Austria, Italy, and Germany.
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