Flamingo
The Flamingo is a genus of wading birds known for its vibrant pink and red plumage. Its unique color comes from the beta-carotene in its diet of algae and crustaceans.
The Flamingo has a unique, down-curved beak that it uses to filter feed. It holds its head upside down in the water and uses its tongue to pump water through the beak's filters, trapping the small organisms it feeds on. Flamingos are highly social birds that live in large flocks.
Flamingo
Classification
Aves > Phoenicopteriformes > Phoenicopteridae > Phoenicopterus > P. roseus
Native To
Conservation Status
Average Height
4 - 5 feet
(1.2 - 1.5 m)
Average Weight
5 - 6 lbs
(2.3 - 2.7 kg)
Average Life Span
40 - 60 years
Gestation Period
28 - 32 days
Did You Know?
The Flamingo gets its vibrant pink color from pigments in the food it eats, primarily brine shrimp and algae.
They often stand on one leg, a behavior thought to conserve body heat.
Flamingos are highly social birds, living in large colonies.
Their distinctive, downward-curving beaks are specially adapted for filter feeding.
Despite their large size, Flamingos are surprisingly agile flyers.
Photo Gallery
No images provided yet. Be the first to upload one!