Most people associate flamingos with Florida, but we have other birds that are pink. The Roseate Spoonbill is quite an interesting, and eye-catching bird. It is large, with long legs like the flamingo, but the color is more pink and white.

The big difference in the two birds is the beak. Flamingos have short hooked beaks whereas the Spoonbill has a long, flat bill.

The Roseate Spoonbill is a state designated threatened species. As is true with so much of Florida’s wildlife, their habitat is disappearing.

I have never seen a wild flamingo strolling around Florida. However, they do exist in the southern part of the state. I have however seen the Roseate Spoonbill.

All photos on this page are shared courtesy of the photographers of Pixabay.

One day when we traveled by boat down through Haulover Canal and out into the wide open waters of Mosquito Lagoon, I saw a flock of beautiful pink birds flying to one of the islands. That is when I discovered this beautiful (also pink) tropical bird that lives in my area.

We have come across the Spoonbill sitting quietly on a tree limb along the backwater places we sometimes travel in our boat. To be clear, the Spoonbill is a rare sighting for us.

Where Are Roseate Spoonbills Found?

In the US they can be seen along coastal areas of Florida – I am on the east coast and yes, they are here. See their Florida distribution at the FWC website.

Read more about the Spoonbill at Audobon.org. and be sure to view their photos, which are gorgeous and amazing!

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