Roseate Spoonbill
Image: Daniel Guerra (cc-by-nc)
NameRoseate Spoonbill
Common NameRoseate Spoonbill
Scientific NamePlatalea ajaja
FamilyThreskiornithidae
Wingspan (cm)127.5
Length (cm)78.5
Weight (g)1500
Plumage DetailsAdults display brilliant pink body plumage, often more intense on the wings and tail coverts, contrasting with a white neck and head. A deeper reddish-pink patch is typically visible on the shoulders and underwing coverts. Juveniles are paler, often whitish with a hint of pink.
Vocalization / CallGenerally a quiet bird, the Roseate Spoonbill may produce low grunts, croaks, or hisses, particularly when disturbed or at nesting colonies.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatswetlands, estuaries, mangrove swamps, coastal lagoons, marshes
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in coastal regions of the southeastern United States (primarily Florida, Louisiana, Texas), the Caribbean, Central America, and tropical South America.
Identifying Featuresspoon-shaped bill, vibrant pink plumage, wading behavior, white head and neck (adults), reddish shoulder patch
Description
The Roseate Spoonbill is a striking wading bird known for its vibrant pink plumage and distinctive spoon-shaped bill. It forages in shallow waters, sweeping its bill from side to side to detect and capture small aquatic prey.
