Threskiornithidae

This family of elegant wading birds comprises two distinct subfamilies. The ibises (subfamily Threskionithinae: 12 genera and 26 species) are generally heron-like in shape but with a long, slender, decurved bill. The Spoonbills (Plataleinae: 2 genera and 6 species) derive their name from their peculiar, long, spatula-like bill.

Additional information

Species range from solitary to highly gregarious. Many join feeding and roosting flocks with conspecifics as well as with other ibises or spoonbills, herons, and storks. They are primarily diurnal, but spoonbills may also be active at night. Most species roost or perch in trees and shrubs. The birds forage in water or soft soil. They may locate their prey visually, but more usually by feel, picking or probing with the bill. Most species, but especially the spoonbills, also use a swishing motion, swinging their bill back and forth. The bird may look for food while standing still or while walking or wading. Some employ more active running or flushing techniques, while others flip over objects. Prey is generally swallowed whole, but some species break larger prey into smaller pieces.

Tropical birds tend to be sedentary, while subtropical species may be dispersive, primarily when searching for food resources or after breeding. Temperate-zone birds are migratory, and include austral migrants. Migrating birds often move in groups, many species flying in single file or in a "V" formation.

The timing of breeding is generally synchronized with seasonally low water levels and peak food resources. Most species are colonial breeders, often nesting with other waders such as storks, herons, cormorants, or anhingas, and with the nest often situated very close to neighbors.

Taxonomy

Number of genera: 14

Number of species: 32

The ibises (subfamily Threskionithinae: 12 genera and 26 species) are generally heron-like in shape but with a long, slender, decurved bill. The Spoonbills (Plataleinae: 2 genera and 6 species) derive their name from their peculiar, long, spatula-like bill.

A list of all species can be found here.