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Florida Boardwalk Animal Fact Sheet
ROSEATE SPOONBILL
Platalea ajaja

Range:

Southern United Sates, Central America and South America.

Roseate spoonbills, although pink in color, are not a part of the flamingo family. The birds’ name derives from their long spoon- shaped bill. Their unique bills allow them to “head swing” for their food. The birds plunge their bills into the water and swing their heads side to side. This allows the birds to consume small animals from the bottom of lakes. The spoonbills use their strong sense of touch while feeding. Their bills have sensitive tough receptors which can detect vibrations. When prey touches the inside of the spoon, the bill rapidly closes.


Habitat: freshwater and saltwater wetlands.
Diet:

Small fish, crustaceans (especially shrimp and crayfish), insects, slugs and snails.

Status: Common.
Approximate Dimensions of Adult: Length:  28 in.          
Weight: 3 lbs.
Lifespan: Up to 10 years
Incubation:

22-24 days


 


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