Be Their Voice

News from International Bird Rescue

Flightless Ibis Finds a New Home at Aquarium of the Pacific

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A White-faced Ibis who could no longer fly after recovering from injuries caused by a predator attack now lives at the Aquarium of the Pacific’s Shorebird Sanctuary exhibit. Photo by Robin Riggs courtesy of Aquarium of the Pacific

After surviving a predator attack that left her unable to fly, a former International Bird Rescue patient, a White-faced Ibis, has found a new home at the Aquarium of the Pacific’s Shorebird Sanctuary exhibit. This placement will allow visitors to witness her beauty up close.

The White-faced Ibis was admitted to Bird Rescue on September 18, 2023 and spent 81 days in care. Photo by Ariana Gastelum – International Bird Rescue

The ibis was admitted to Bird Rescue on September 18, 2023, after being found with a large wound on her back, a small one on her leg, and a drooping right wing at El Dorado Nature Center in Long Beach, CA. The wounds were surgically repaired, and the fractures healed, but the bird had poor range of motion in the right shoulder and could no longer fly. After 81 days in care, she was transferred to the Aquarium on December 8. 2023.

The Aquarium’s Shorebird Sanctuary exhibit is designed to resemble a wetland such as the Bolsa Chica State Marine Conservation Area, according to their website. The exhibit features several microecosystems and shelters Black-necked Stilts, Black-bellied Plovers, Western Snowy Plovers, Killdeer, Ruddy Ducks, and now the ibis, who they’ve affectionately named Gladys.

“Gladys has quickly become a staff and crowd favorite in our shorebird habitat,” said Ashley Loper, the Aquarium’s Aviculturist. “She is very curious, and is one of the first to explore new objects. She has settled in very well and can often be seen exploring the habitat with Fred, the willet.”

The Aquarium of the Pacific have named their new resident, the White-faced Ibis, “Gladys.” Photo by Robin Riggs courtesy of Aquarium of the Pacific

Rehoming a wild bird that cannot be released due to medical reasons provides a valuable second chance for the bird to live a safe and healthy life. It ensures the bird receives proper care, including food, shelter, and medical attention, which it may not survive without in the wild. In these controlled environments, a bird can avoid the challenges it would face in nature, such as predators and difficulty foraging due to its physical limitations.

Additionally, the bird can serve as an educational ambassador, helping to raise awareness about wildlife conservation and the importance of rehabilitation efforts. By providing a permanent home at the Aquarium, we not only ensure the bird’s well-being but also contribute to broader conservation goals by connecting people with wildlife in meaningful ways.