Hello! What image comes to mind when you hear “Crested Ibis”? This bird, once feared to be extinct, has made a miraculous comeback through human efforts! The story of the Crested Ibis is like something out of a movie. Let’s take a closer look at the Crested Ibis!
The Crested Ibis is a large bird, measuring 70 to 80 cm in body length with a wingspan of about 130 centimeters. Its body is white, the face is a reddish color, and it has a black beak and long crest feathers on the back of its head. From spring to summer, the pink color under its wings is particularly beautiful! Moreover, during the breeding season, it has the unique habit of darkening its feathers with its own secretions.
The Crested Ibis’s diet consists of aquatic organisms such as loaches, crayfish, and frogs found in the mud. It skillfully uses its beak to find a delicious lunch in wetlands and rice paddies. Occasionally, it also eats fruits, making its diet quite varied. Its call is a bit unusual, with sounds like “Tar-ah,” “Gwaar,” and “Kak-Kak,” reminiscent of the hoarse voice of a crow, which is quite unique. This call has even made its way into folktales, blending seamlessly into people’s lives!
In Japan’s history, the Crested Ibis has been a very important creature. Ancient people loved and called it “Peach Blossom Bird,” and it appears in the Nihon Shoki from the Nara period. During the Edo period, its feathers were used for arrow fletching, making it highly valued in everyday life. However, its beauty led to its downfall as it was overhunted, and there was a time when it could no longer be seen.
People began to work together to protect the Crested Ibis. A pair of Crested Ibises from China produced healthy chicks, and the family grew from there. Now, there are Crested Ibises freely flying over Sado Island. This is truly an amazing achievement! Let’s all continue to support the Crested Ibis so it can keep soaring freely in the sky. The story of the Crested Ibis is still unfolding! See you next time.
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