Glossy Ibis (Plegadis falcinellus), Agricultural field near confluence of Agua Fria and Gila Rivers, Maricopa County

This Glossy Ibis was discovered and photographed by Troy Corman on 12 April 2009 with approximately 60 White-faced Ibis near the intersection of Dysart Road and Southern Avenue in western Maricopa County.

Casual to rare, but apparently increasing visitor to Arizona. Likely more regular than the few records suggest due to difficulty in picking them out of the more widespread and abundant White-faced Ibis flocks and the difficulty of separating them from hybrids. 

Glossy traits observed in the field and photographs include dark eye with no hint of red coloration, no purple or reddish tones to the bare skin at the base of the bill and narrow, pale area outlining the grayish facial skin extending to the eye, but not noticeably behind it.  Complete lack of any white feathering in the plumage surrounding the facial skin. 

12 April 2009, photos by Troy Corman