What is the current status of glossy ibis in Anglesey?

The glossy ibis, once a rare sight in Anglesey, have become a common occurrence in the region's wetlands, with a record influx of 605 birds spotted in September 2022.

How have the glossy ibis populations changed in Europe over the past decades?

The article states that while the glossy ibis were once restricted to the Mediterranean basin, their populations have surged north and west, conquering France and the Low Countries, and now becoming a regular sight in Anglesey.

Where did the large influx of glossy ibis in Anglesey come from?

The article mentions that the record influx of 605 glossy ibis in September 2022 came on the back of large-scale movements of the species up the Atlantic seaboard of Europe during late August.

Home / Environment / Anglesey Wetlands Dazzle with Rare Ibis Sightings

Anglesey Wetlands Dazzle with Rare Ibis Sightings

8 Oct, 2025

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Summary

Glossy ibis, once rare in Britain, now a common sight
Influx of 605 ibis recorded in September 2022
Ibis successfully bred in Britain for the first time in 2022

Anglesey Wetlands Dazzle with Rare Ibis Sightings

According to the article, the RSPB's wetland reserve at Cors Ddyga in Anglesey has recently been graced by the presence of a pair of glossy ibis, a striking and increasingly common sight in the region. As of October 8th, 2025, these iridescent birds with their sickle-shaped bills have been regularly spotted in the area, a far cry from their status as a national rarity in the 1990s.

The article notes that the glossy ibis population has been expanding in Europe, driven in part by climate change and milder winters. In September 2022, a record influx of 605 individuals was recorded across southern Ireland and eastern England, following large-scale movements of the species up the Atlantic seaboard of Europe. Anglesey itself had hosted just six ibis before a flock of 12 arrived in September 2009, and since then, a further 21 birds have been recorded, mostly in autumn.

The article paints a vivid picture of the glossy ibis, describing their iridescent deep maroon feathers flecked with bronze, violet, and emerald hues. These "head-turning catwalk couples" gracefully extract insects, molluscs, and worms from the marshland, a captivating sight for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike. The article suggests that as long as the wetlands thrive, these lustrous visitors may continue to return to Anglesey in the years to come.