Well just like this Roseate Spoonbill I have been a little elusive lately 😉 This Roseate Spoonbill bill was quite a surprise and difficult to get a clear picture because it was on the other side of the intracoastal. I’ve only seen one in our neighborhood in 9 years because usually I see them more north of here in the salt marshes so this was quite the treat! They are mainly in warmer climates on the very southern coasts of North America and Mexico as well as many parts of South America. So again it’s definitely a special sighting to see them in the wild here in the more northern part of Florida.
Like the flamingo they have their pink color based on what they eat which is mostly crustaceans and other aquatic invertebrates that contain pigments called carotenoids. Quite an interesting science lesson there huh? 😁 Their beaks are spoon shaped, thus the name, that they use moving side to side in the water to catch their food. However, as I learned interestingly enough they are not born with that spoon shaped bill! The hatchlings bill will start to flatten at 9 days old then be completely full size by 39 days. I loved seeing this bird for its unique color and rarity so keep your eyes peeled! Maybe you too will see a glimpse of pink flying in the sky and be able to add it to your own list 🤗
