Caribbean flamingo
·Bird
In sunlight, the bright pink hue in feathers fades quickly. However, Flamingos secrete the same pigment through a gland near their tail. As they preen for water proofing, they spread this pigment over their feathers, brightening their color. This behavior increases during breeding season, attracting mates and boosting reproductive success. Once the birds have found a mate, preening activity tapers off, and the birds’ plumage once again fades to pale pink.
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- Conservation StatusLeast Concern
- Life span40-50 years
- Body sizearound 4.3 ft. tall
- Native habitat Marine coastal areas of the Caribbean Islands, Central America, northern South America, and the Gulf Coast
- DietShrimps, mollusks, marine worms, insects
