Flamingos

Flamingos are famous for their beautiful pink feathers and long legs. They live near lakes, lagoons, and coastal areas in warm places. Flamingos are social birds that live in huge groups that can number in the thousands.

Why Are They Pink?

Baby flamingos are actually born gray or white. They turn pink because of the food they eat! Flamingos eat shrimp and algae that contain pink and orange pigments. The more of these foods they eat, the pinker they become.

Standing and Feeding

Flamingos often stand on one leg, and scientists think this helps them save body heat. They feed by putting their heads upside down in the water. Their beaks filter out mud and water, keeping only the tiny animals and plants they eat.

Fun Facts

• A flock of flamingos is called a flamboyance.
• Flamingos can fly up to 35 miles per hour.
• They can live for over 40 years in the wild.

Did You Know?

Flamingos are born with straight beaks that curve as they grow. They are one of the few birds that feed their babies a special milk produced in their throats!