Threskiornis aethiopicus
tags: birds, sacred ibis, Threskiornis aethiopicus, ornithology, Image of the Day
This thermal image of sacred ibis, Threskiornis aethiopicus.
shows that these birds are well insulated, with only their eyes and one leg losing heat.
Staff at London Zoo say this unique insight shows how animals regulate their body temperatures, and could be used to diagnose illness.
Image: Steve Lowe [larger view].