Ibis

Ibis, heronlike wading bird (family Threskiornithidae) of moderate size, characterized by a long, thin, downward-curving bill. Ibises have a worldwide distribution in tropical, subtropical, and temperate regions, and are usually found near fresh water, feeding on small aquatic animals. Ibises are gregarious and frequently raucous. Species include the sacred ibis (Threskiornis aethiopica), honored in ancient Egypt, and the Eastern glossy ibis (Plegadis Falcinellus falcinellus), common in the United States.