[2][3] It is now however classified as a separate species from the African sacred ibis due to considerable differences observed in the former’s ecology and morphology.

There are also black ornamental plumes on the back with a blue or green gloss formed from the lower scapulars and tertials, which are most prominent in the breeding season.

[6][3][5][8] Unlike the African sacred ibis, there is also little or no black on the wing tips and duller display plumes from the innermost secondaries.

[6] Apart from its occurrence on Aldabra, the Malagasy sacred ibis is sparsely distributed along and restricted to the west coast of Madagascar,[5] especially between Port-Berge and Moromoe.

[3] Although uncommon, some high densities of resident breeding populations have been observed in mangroves and estuaries near Soalala and Sahamalaza Bay and Baie de Baly; the region encompassed between these locations appears to be a species’ stronghold.

[7][1] It preferentially frequents wide, open pools without surrounding vegetation; as well as sand bars and sandy beaches for general resting places.

[1] The Malagasy sacred ibis feeds on crustaceans, diverse invertebrates, vegetable refuse[7] and more occasionally takes frogs, reptiles and young birds.

[5] The nest lies 2-3m above the surface of the water in forks of Avicennia and Rhizophora trees and largely comprises twigs, some of which are still living with leaves attached.

[5] The Madagascan population has been markedly declining mainly through unsustainable harvesting of eggs, nest site disturbance and wetland habitat degradation.

[5] Two Malagasy sacred ibis individuals were once received by London Zoo from the Societe d’Acclimatation, Paris, in 1870.

[1] The Malagasy sacred ibis has therefore been classified as Endangered by the IUCN and is generally considered rare throughout its range.