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Roseate Spoonbill

Platalea ajaja ORDER: CICONIIFORMES FAMILY: THRESKIORNITHIDAE

IUCN Conservation Status: Least Concern

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Roseate Spoonbill Photo

© William L. Newton / CLO

A bizarre wading bird of the southern coasts, the Roseate Spoonbill uses its odd bill to strain small food items out of the water. Its bright pink coloring leads many Florida tourists to think they have seen a flamingo.

Inside Birding
For complete information on this species, visit The Birds of North America Online.

Appearance

Heronlike
Heronlike
Typical Voice

Adult Description

  • Pink.
  • Long, flat, spoon-shaped bill.
  • Bald head.
  • Moderately long reddish legs.

Immature Description

Similar to adult, but paler pink to white and white, feathered head.

Range Map Help

Roseate Spoonbill Range Map
View dynamic map of eBird sightings

Similar Species

  • Greater Flamingo, a very rare visitor, is deep pink, has a short, thick, bent black bill, a very long neck, and extremely long legs.