Roseate Spoonbill

The Roseate Spoonbill is relatively common in the Gulf Coast area, but only a few per year wind up at the Wildlife Center. This magnificent bird is in full breeding plumage; note brilliant pink patch on the breast and the overall vibrant coloration. A relatively large wading bird, they can stand almost three feet tall and have a wingspan of about 50 inches. Besides the eye-popping color, the Roseate Spoonbill is characterized by its long white neck and spatulate bill. They filter feed as they swing their unique bill side to side as they slowly walk through the wetlands. Unlike other birds like herons with this general build, Spoonbills fly with their neck outstretched. A gregarious bird, it can often be found in the company of other large wading or water birds such as Great Egrets, Tricolored Herons and Pelicans. Haven't seen one in the wild yet? Go to places where you've seen large wading birds before.