The sound of a Glossy Ibis can be described as relatively quiet and infrequent. When foraging in flocks, they may emit a throaty murmuring sound, which can be heard as a gentle and low chatter. It’s not a loud or constant noise, but rather a subtle background sound as they search for food.
In situations where Glossy Ibises are disturbed or startled, such as when approached by humans or other predators, they may emit a guttural grunt as they take flight. This grunt is a quick and deep vocalization that serves as a warning or alarm call. It’s a distinctive sound that can catch you by surprise if you’re not expecting it.
When it comes to the interactions between Glossy Ibis parents and their chicks, there are a few different sounds that can be heard. When the adults return to the nest after being away, they may make raspy grunts, which seem to be a way of announcing their arrival to the chicks. This sound is not particularly melodic or musical, but rather a rough and scratchy vocalization.
On the other hand, the begging chicks themselves make a buzzing sound that resembles the noise of insects. As the chicks flap their wings and get excited upon the return of their parents, they emit this buzzing sound as a way of expressing their hunger and anticipation for food. It’s a high-pitched and repetitive sound that can be quite charming to observe.
Personally, I have had the opportunity to hear Glossy Ibises foraging in a wetland area near my hometown. The soft murmuring sound they make while searching for food creates a peaceful and natural ambiance. It’s a sound that blends in with the surrounding environment, making it somewhat difficult to pinpoint the exact location of the birds.
The guttural grunt of a Glossy Ibis taking flight is quite distinctive and can startle you if you’re not prepared for it. I remember one instance when I was quietly observing a group of Glossy Ibises, and as I got too close, they suddenly took off with these grunting calls filling the air. It was a reminder of their wild nature and their ability to react swiftly to perceived threats.
Lastly, I had the pleasure of observing a Glossy Ibis nest with chicks in a nature reserve. The buzzing sound made by the hungry chicks when the parents returned was both amusing and endearing. It was a unique experience to witness the interaction between the adult birds and their offspring through these vocalizations.
The sounds of a Glossy Ibis can be described as a quiet and occasional murmuring during foraging, a guttural grunt when taking flight, raspy grunts upon arriving at the nest, and insect-like buzzing sounds made by begging chicks. These vocalizations add to the overall charm and natural beauty of these elegant birds.