WOOD IBIS
188. Mycteria americana. 40 to 46 in.
Entire head unfeathered and covered with scales; both head and legs are
pale bluish in color; eye brown; plumage entirely white except for the
glossy purplish-black primaries and tail. This large bird is a true
stork and is very similar to the common European Stork. The name ibis
was incorrectly and unfortunately applied to this species, and tends to
confusion. Its flight is very easy and graceful, accomplished with a
slow flapping of the wings, alternated at short intervals with long
sails. At times they mount high in the air and circle about like hawks
or vultures.
Notes.—Loud, hoarse croaks.
Nest.—A shallow platform of sticks in bushes or at low elevations in
trees, usually over the water, the birds swarming in the most
inaccessible swamps. Their 3 or 4 eggs are white and granular.
Range.—Breeds in the Gulf States and north to South Carolina; later may
stray north to New York.
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