Which bird, known for its spectacular migratory journey between Europe and Africa, is famously depicted in ancient Egyptian art and hieroglyphs as a symbol of the soul (ba)?

• A The sacred ibis
• B The white stork
• C The flamingo
• D The hoopoe ✓

The sacred ibis (Threskiornis aethiopicus), with its distinctive curved bill and black-and-white plumage, was venerated as the embodiment of the god Thoth — thousands of mummified ibises have been found in catacombs at Tuna el-Gebel, offered by pilgrims seeking the god of wisdom's favour.