Roseate Spoonbill
Image: brownheadednuthatch (cc-by-nc)
NameRoseate Spoonbill
Common NameRoseate Spoonbill
Scientific NamePlatalea ajaja
FamilyThreskiornithidae
Wingspan (cm)127
Length (cm)76
Weight (g)1400
Plumage DetailsAdults display a white neck and head, a bare greenish-gray head, and a body primarily pale pink. The wings and tail coverts are a brighter rose-pink, often with deeper carmine patches on the shoulders. Juveniles are much paler, with feathered heads.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent outside of breeding colonies, where they may produce low grunts, croaks, and hisses. Chicks make begging calls.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatscoastal marshes, estuaries, mangrove swamps, shallow freshwater wetlands, lagoons
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the southeastern United States (primarily Florida and the Gulf Coast), throughout the Caribbean, Central America, and much of South America.
Identifying FeaturesSpatulate (spoon-shaped) bill, Vibrant pink plumage (intensity varies with age and diet), Long legs for wading, Bare head (in adults)
Description
The Roseate Spoonbill is a striking wading bird known for its distinctive spatulate bill and vibrant pink plumage. These social birds forage in shallow waters, sweeping their unique bills from side to side to detect small aquatic prey.
