"RAINBOW CONNECTION"

White-Faced Ibis - 8 Photos

What could be more appropriate for tropical temperatures in Alberta, than a exotic looking bird that winters in the Southern U.S. and Mexico.

Generally when seen with the sun shining from behind, the Ibis appears black in silhouette but change the direction of the lighting and the bird's true iridescent feathers come into view (Photo #1 through Photo #5). And even a small shift in location & camera direction, can produce more subtle but perhaps deeper colours (Photo #6 through Photo #8).

The smaller birds that inhabit the marshy areas seem to be more accepting these days of what must appear to be to them, to be a predator. The White-Faced Ibis's diet generally consists of earthworms, small crustaceans and insects so no worries there. However, having seen Ibises on their landing approaches, they do somewhat resemble vultures so I can understand why the alert calls are heard through the marsh when an Ibis arrives.

While this particular Ibis was perusing the shallow water and shoreline for a tasty meal, several ravens were in close proximity sitting on the sandbar, not to harass but to take advantage of what was uncovered in the mud by the Ibis's scouring. And there certainly was easy feasting for the ravens just by following the Ibis's track. Ravens always know how to turn a situation to their advantage. 

PHOTO #1

PHOTO #2

PHOTO #3

PHOTO #4

PHOTO #5

PHOTO #6

PHOTO #7

PHOTO #8