Scarlet Ibis vs Northern Bald Ibis

In short

The Scarlet Ibis and Northern Bald Ibis are both striking members of the ibis family but are easily distinguished by their plumage and head features. The Scarlet Ibis is unmistakably bright red with black primary tips, while the Northern Bald Ibis has a distinctive bald head and iridescent black plumage. Both species share similar habitats but differ significantly in appearance.

Identification tips

• Plumage: Scarlet Ibis is bright red with black wing tips; Northern Bald Ibis is black with a bald red head.
• Head: Northern Bald Ibis has a distinctive bald head and red face.
• Habitat: Scarlet Ibis in wetlands; Northern Bald Ibis in arid, rocky areas.
• Behavior: Both probe with bills, but Northern Bald Ibis more often seen in dry areas.

Size

Both species are similar in size, typical of medium-sized ibises.

Plumage

The Scarlet Ibis is bright red with black tips on the outer primaries, whereas the Northern Bald Ibis has iridescent black plumage and a bald head with a red face and neck.

Behaviour

Both species forage in similar ways, probing with their long, decurved bills. The Scarlet Ibis often forages in shallow water or mud, while the Northern Bald Ibis is more terrestrial, often seen foraging in dry areas.

Habitat

The Scarlet Ibis is found in coastal and wetland areas of South America, while the Northern Bald Ibis inhabits semi-desert and rocky areas, primarily in Morocco and parts of the Middle East.

Voice

Vocalizations are not a primary distinguishing feature between these species in the field.