There are from 26 to 33 species of Spoonbills and Ibis, depending on your classification. They are all large birds, usually white with very long, distinctive bills specialized for feeding. They usually have bare skin on their faces, and unlike Herons, they fly with their necks fully outstretched. They are quite gregarious at breeding and feeding times especially if sharing a coincident food source. Ibis and Spoonbills have no larynx and therefore they are practically voiceless; except for feeble grunts and harsh croaks or when begging for food as juveniles. Ibis are usually recognized by their long curved bill. Spoonbills, as the name suggests, have distinctive long bills with the end shaped like a spoon.  Australian White Ibis
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