Roseate Spoonbill
Image: brownheadednuthatch (cc-by-nc)
NameRoseate Spoonbill
Common NameRoseate Spoonbill
Scientific NamePlatalea ajaja
FamilyThreskiornithidae
Wingspan (cm)127.5
Length (cm)76
Weight (g)1500
Plumage DetailsAdults display a white neck and upper back, transitioning to brilliant rose-pink on the body and wings, with intense crimson patches on the shoulders. The head is bare, appearing greenish-yellow, and features striking red eyes. The long, flattened, spoon-shaped bill is grayish.
Vocalization / CallGenerally a quiet bird, the Roseate Spoonbill produces low grunts, croaks, and occasional hisses, particularly at nesting sites or when disturbed.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatscoastal marshes, mangrove swamps, estuaries, lagoons, shallow freshwater wetlands
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeIts range extends across the southeastern United States (primarily Florida, coastal Texas, and Louisiana), the Caribbean islands, Central America, and much of tropical South America.
Identifying Featuresspoon-shaped bill, vibrant pink plumage, bare greenish head, long wading legs, red eyes
Description
A striking wading bird, the Roseate Spoonbill is easily recognized by its vibrant pink plumage and unique spatulate bill. It forages in shallow waters, sweeping its bill side-to-side to detect and capture small aquatic prey.
