[Birdnet] Interesting Ibis in West Point

[Kristin Purdy]

The unusual ibis Paul Higgins saw in a field in West Point this morning appears to be a leucistic White-faced Ibis, as opposed to a White Ibis. The bird is flecked with dark on its neck, wings, and body including the underparts. The primaries and secondaries show no signs of black tips. The bill and lores are dark with no signs of red or orange. 

After seeing the photographs, I think this one is probably a juvenile due to bill, lore, and eye color and because the bill seems relatively short and blunt for an adult White-faced Ibis. 

A selection of the photos will go to Milt for posting on Utah Birds so the birding community can be on the lookout for this rather remarkable-looking ibis. Thanks to Paul for reporting and identifying this bird.

Kris
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Kristin Purdy 
  To: birdnet at utahbirds.org 
  Sent: Wednesday, August 23, 2006 7:55 AM
  Subject: [Birdnet] Interesting Ibis in West Point


  I just got a call (7:45am Wednesday) from Paul Higgins, who's looking at an atypical ibis in a flock of White-faced in West Point, Davis County, with serious amount of white.  The bird initially looked like it could be a juvenile WHITE IBIS; with additional study Paul thought it also could be a leucistic White-faced Ibis. He is photographing the bird and additional observers are welcome.

  The location is near the 4500W and 1500N intersection. To get there, take Antelope Island Drive west from exit 332 of I-15. Take the last right turn north before entering Antelope State Park and drive about 3 blocks to 1500N. The flock of ibis is working an alfalfa field that's being irrigated on the west side of the road. 

  Kris


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