Roseate Spoonbill
NameRoseate Spoonbill
Common NameRoseate Spoonbill
Scientific NamePlatalea ajaja
FamilyThreskiornithidae
Wingspan (cm)127.5
Length (cm)78.5
Weight (g)1500
Plumage DetailsAdults display brilliant rose-pink body plumage, white neck and upper back, and a bare, greenish head. They also have a distinctive red patch on their shoulders. Juveniles are paler pink with a feathered head.
Vocalization / CallGenerally a quiet bird, the Roseate Spoonbill may produce low grunts, croaks, or hisses, especially when disturbed or at the nest.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatscoastal marshes, estuaries, mangrove swamps, lagoons, mudflats, shallow freshwater wetlands
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the coastal southeastern United States (primarily Florida, Louisiana, and Texas), throughout the Caribbean, Mexico, Central America, and extensively across South America.
Identifying FeaturesSpatulate (spoon-shaped) bill, Vibrant pink plumage, Long legs, Bare greenish head (adults)
Description
The Roseate Spoonbill is a striking wading bird known for its vibrant pink plumage and unique spoon-shaped bill. It typically forages in shallow waters, sweeping its bill from side to side to detect prey. This social species often roosts and nests in colonies.
