Threskiornithidae

bird family

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Last updated

July 16, 2026

Quick Summary

The family Threskiornithidae encompasses ibises and spoonbills. These are medium to large wading birds characterized by long necks and short tails. Their bills vary: ibises have long, slender bills that curve downward, while spoonbills have bills that are straight and spatulate at the tip.1

These birds have long legs with slightly webbed front toes and a small, elevated hind toe. Some species possess crests, and certain ibises have bare heads and necks. Their lengths range from 48 to 107 cm (19 to 42 inches), with approximately 33 species across 14 genera. They are found virtually worldwide in tropical and subtropical regions, with a few species extending into temperate zones. The family is part of the order Ciconiiformes.12

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ciconiiform
Annotated classification
Family Threskiornithidae (ibis and spoonbills)Medium to large wading or walking birds with long neck and short tail; bill long, slender, curved downward (ibis), or straight and spatulate at the tip (spoonbills). Legs long; front toes slightly webbed at base, hind toe small and elevated. Many…
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Family Threskiornithidae (ibis and spoonbills)Medium to large wading or walking birds with long neck and short tail; bill long, slender, curved downward (ibis), or straight and spatulate at the tip (spoonbills). Legs long; front toes slightly webbed at base, hind toe small and elevated. Many…
Read More