The Scarlet Ibis refers primarily to two notable things:
- The Scarlet Ibis (Eudocimus ruber) is a species of ibis bird, distinguished by its brilliant scarlet coloration. It inhabits tropical South America and parts of the Caribbean, including Trinidad and Tobago where it is a national symbol. The bird is medium-sized, strong in flight, social, and feeds mainly on crustaceans and insects, which give it its distinctive red color. It has conservation status as Least Concern but faces some local population threats.
- "The Scarlet Ibis" is also a famous short story written by James Hurst, published in 1960. The story is rich in symbolism, using the scarlet ibis bird as a metaphor. It explores themes of pride, fragility, and the complexity of human relationships, centered on the relationship between two brothers. The story has been adapted into an opera and is widely studied.
If more details are desired about either the bird or the story, that can be provided.
