General

Roseate Spoonbill: Large ibis with pink body and white upper back and neck. Bill is long, gray, and spatulate. Sexes are similar. Juvenile is white with a hint of pink and has yellow bill.

Range and Habitat

Roseate Spoonbill: Found on the coasts of Texas, Louisiana, and southern Florida; also in the American tropics. Preferred habitats include mangroves, saltwater lagoons, and large, shallow lakes.

Breeding and Nesting

Roseate Spoonbill: One to five brown spotted white eggs are laid in a bulky nest made of sticks and built in a low bush or tree. Incubation ranges from 22 to 24 days and is carried out by both parents.

Foraging and Feeding

Roseate Spoonbill: Eats minnows, small crustaceans, bits of plants, and insects; forages by swishing its spoon-like bill from side to side in shallow, muddy water.

Vocalization

Roseate Spoonbill: While feeding, utters a low, guttural sound.

Similar Species

Roseate Spoonbill: Flamingo is larger and has a short, thick, hooked bill and black on wings.