The loudest bird in South Africa is the hadeda ibis, scientifically known as Bostrychia hagedash. This unique ibis species is native to Sub-Saharan Africa and is easily recognized by its distinctive calls. The hadeda ibis gets its name from the loud three to four note calls it utters in flight, particularly during the mornings and evenings when they fly out or return to their roost trees.
I have had the pleasure of encountering the hadeda ibis during my travels to South Africa, and I can attest to the impressive volume of their calls. It is truly a remarkable experience to hear their distinct vocalizations reverberating through the air.
These calls, often described as a raucous “haa-haa-haa-de-dah,” can carry quite a distance, making them one of the most recognizable sounds of the African bush. The hadeda ibis is not known for its melodious tunes but rather for the sheer volume and persistence of its vocalizations.
The purpose of the hadeda ibis’s loud calls is primarily to communicate with other members of its flock. These calls serve various functions, including maintaining contact while in flight, establishing territory boundaries, and alerting others to potential threats or food sources. The hadeda ibis is a social bird, often found in large groups, and their calls help to coordinate and maintain the cohesion of the flock.
Interestingly, the hadeda ibis is not only known for its vocal abilities but also for its adaptability to urban environments. In many parts of South Africa, these birds have successfully adapted to living in close proximity to human settlements. They can often be found foraging in suburban gardens and parklands, much to the delight or annoyance of local residents depending on their perspective.
The hadeda ibis holds the title of the loudest bird in South Africa. Its distinctive calls, consisting of three to four notes, are famously loud and can be heard during the mornings and evenings when the ibises take flight. These vocalizations serve as a means of communication within the flock and are vital for establishing territory and maintaining social cohesion. The hadeda ibis is a fascinating bird, and its loud calls are an iconic sound of the African bush.