There is Something Odd About the Ibis

There is something odd about the ibis. Known for their distinct long, curved beaks, they use this specialized tool to probe into mud and shallow water, hunting for crabs, small fish, insects, and crustaceans. You’ll often spot them gracefully wading through marshes, their white feathers standing out against the greenery, or glimmering in the sunlight. This characteristic makes it feel like nature’s own version of the hilariously funny Gonzo from Sesame Street. As shown in the picture, the ibis, with its long, curved beak and somewhat gangly posture, struts around marshlands like it’s auditioning for a bird version of this children’s variety show. Much like Gonzo, the ibis has a quirky elegance. It’s always poking into places it doesn’t quite belong, like a kid sneaking into the pantry, looking for hidden cookies.

Ibises play an important role in the ecosystem, helping to control insect and crustacean populations. Their presence indicates healthy wetlands, as they rely on clean, unpolluted water to thrive. The improving Everglades directly relates to improving population numbers of the ibis. Imagine an ibis standing in the grass alongside the river, looking at you with an inquisitive expression. Both the ibis, and Gonzo, have this endearing, “I’m proud to be weird” vibe. Which brings us appropriately back to another popular Ibis, Sebastian, the University of Miami mascot.

The American white ibis was selected as the school’s official mascot in 1958 because of its legendary bravery during hurricanes. According to Native American legend and university folklore, the ibis is the last of wildlife to take shelter before a hurricane hits and the first to reappear once the storm has passed (Wikipedia: Sebastian the Ibis. Hurricane sports).

On Cumberland Island, the Ibis are known to nest in large colonies in the trees, often near other waterbirds, creating bustling rookeries where their distinctive honking calls fill the air. Our local ibis fly with their long legs trailing behind, kind of like how Gonzo goes flailing after one of his failed stunts, but with a touch of grace. It’s as if both are saying, “Yeah, this is how I roll.”

These birds are also migratory, with many making their way to Amelia and Cumberland Islands during warmer months. However, thanks to the region’s mild climate, some ibises stick around year-round, making them a familiar sight to locals and visitors alike. If Gonzo were a real bird, he’d probably look in the mirror and see an ibis staring back at him; and he’d be so proud.

Categorised in: Wildlife & Marine Biology