Flamingo
The Flamingo is a large and distinctive wading bird found throughout Africa, Asia, Europe as well as North and South America. It’s trademark pink color makes it a standout in any environment, and as an animal that congregates in large flocks, it is truly a sight to behold.
There are six different types of flamingo within the genus of this species, and it’s name comes from the Spanish name “flamingo”, or flame. Flamingoes derive their color from the carotenoids, or pigments, found in the shrimp and algae that forms the bulk of their diet. The more carotenoids they consume, the darker their color.
Flamingoes range in height from 36” - 50” and can have wingspans up to five feet in width. They have a curious inverted bill which is perfectly suited for the type of feeding they do, where they stir up the bottom of muddy flats with their feet and then bury their bills, sometimes even entire heads, to capture small crustaceans and other food sources.
Flamingoes are a very abundant species. They are also very social and often live in flocks that number in the thousands, and therefore they are not endangered. They commonly appear in various forms of art and popular culture, and are the national bird of the Bahamas.
There are six different types of flamingo within the genus of this species, and it’s name comes from the Spanish name “flamingo”, or flame. Flamingoes derive their color from the carotenoids, or pigments, found in the shrimp and algae that forms the bulk of their diet. The more carotenoids they consume, the darker their color.
Flamingoes range in height from 36” - 50” and can have wingspans up to five feet in width. They have a curious inverted bill which is perfectly suited for the type of feeding they do, where they stir up the bottom of muddy flats with their feet and then bury their bills, sometimes even entire heads, to capture small crustaceans and other food sources.
Flamingoes are a very abundant species. They are also very social and often live in flocks that number in the thousands, and therefore they are not endangered. They commonly appear in various forms of art and popular culture, and are the national bird of the Bahamas.