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Roseate Spoonbill

Platalea ajaja ORDER: PELECANIFORMES FAMILY: THRESKIORNITHIDAE

IUCN Conservation Status: Least Concern

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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.

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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

Field MarksHelp

  • Adult
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    Roseate Spoonbill

    Adult
    • © William L. Newton / CLO
  • Juvenile
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    Roseate Spoonbill

    Juvenile
    • © William L. Newton / CLO

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.