Species profile
About this species
The Glossy Ibis is a medium-sized wading bird with striking iridescent plumage that shimmers in shades of bronze, green & purple in good light. It has a long, downcurved bill adapted for probing soft mud & shallow water in search of invertebrates & small vertebrates. It is the most widespread ibis species in the world, found across Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia & the Americas.
Shallow freshwater & brackish wetlands including marshes, flooded fields, rice paddies, lake margins & estuaries with muddy substrates rich in invertebrate prey.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Glossy Ibis with us in the United States.
These departures are part of our North America programme.
In the field, David Miles helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Early morning & late afternoon during the breeding season in spring & early summer offer the best combination of favourable light & active behaviour. Migratory stopovers in autumn can also provide excellent opportunities.
Photograph during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon when low-angled sunlight best reveals the iridescent sheen of the plumage. Position yourself at water level or as low as possible to achieve a clean, blurred background & an intimate perspective on the bird. Use a fast shutter speed of at least 1/1000s to freeze movement when the bird is actively foraging or in flight.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Glossy Ibis
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.