Since 2009 we have been studying the White Ibis (Eudocimus albus) in urban areas in south Florida. The main goal of our research is to understand the effects of urbanization on this bird in South Florida, primarily in Palm Beach County. The project began with our Band & Re-sighting Project and has recently expanded with the inception of our GPS Transmitter Project in 2015. Please explore our website to learn more and Contact Us if you have any questions!
Welcome to the Hernandez
White Ibis Project
White ibises are beautiful wading birds, synonymous with Florida wetlands. However, likely due to rampant development, these birds have become highly urbanized. In some cases, flocks of birds are extremely habituated and beg for food in parks and neighborhoods. This shift in behavior, from foraging on aquatic invertebrates in clean water to consuming anthropogenic food, may come at a cost to their health. Dr. Hernandez is investigating two themes: 1) what is the consequence of this shift in behavior for the health of ibises, 2) do ibises play a role as carriers of potentially zoonotic pathogens?
White Ibis Health
About the White Ibis
The White Ibis (Eudocimus albus) is a semi-nomadic wading bird found in wetland and coastal areas of the southern United States, Central America, and northern South America. Adult ibis have snowy white feathers, pink or red colored faces and legs, and a distinctive curved bill. Juvenile ibis have both brown and white feathers. Ibis typically eat crayfish, frogs, and small fish. They may also eat terrestrial invertebrates from agricultural areas, residential yards, and urban parks. Ibis in some urban areas have become habituated to people and will accept and beg for human food, including bread.
White Ibis suffered large population declines over the past century and are now listed as a Species of Special Concern in Florida. Their current and future success is closely tied to the success of ongoing Everglades ecosystem restoration projects. Ibis use of urban habitats may offer an alternative to their wild Everglades habitat but comes with additional challenges for the birds. Ibis may have better and more consistent access to food at landfills and water treatment wetlands, in residential yards, and at various urban parks. They may also deal with increased stressors, poorer quality food, and increased exposure to disease from environmental sources and other wild animals.
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Ibis that visit urban habitats often continue to forage for wild prey. We believe they roost nightly and breed in wild habitats. However some appear to visit the same urban sites every day. We do not currently know to what extent ibis visit and re-visit urban sites, whether they largely rely upon human food or use it as a supplement, or how human food and urban habitat use affects their health. If urban habitats do not impede the continued health and success of ibis, then such areas could serve an important role as alternative habitat. Research into ibis health and urban habitat use may also help us to better understand and conserve other Everglades wading bird species.
