Picture of Scarlet Ibis

-- The Scarlet Ibis is one of the national birds of Trinidad and Tobago. The Scarlet Ibis is scarlet in colour - the feathers being coloured through the synthesis of carotene present in some of their food Fiddler and Aratus crabs, shrimp, algae and aquatic insects . The black pigment in the primary feathers is thought to give extra strength to the wing tip. Long neck counters long legs for reaching water surface and mud flats. The long legs are useful for wading in marshy ground, mud flats and mangrove stands. The Scarlet Ibis is long-lived - It can live up to 18 years in captivity. Ibis are considered adults when they are about 2 years old- by this time they have gained their bright red colour. They follow an elaborate courtship and usually pair for life.