I’ve always enjoyed Audubon.org’s description of this bird: “Gorgeous at a distance and bizarre up close is the Roseate Spoonbill.” (Audubon.org)

The ‘Rosie’ is the only spoonbill (of six species worldwide) to inhabit the New World, and the only one to have such colorful plumage.

“Like all other spoonbills, the Roseate Spoonbill frequents shallow aquatic habitats and feeds by tactolocation: While walking, it swings its head and the slightly open “spoon” of its bill in the water from side to side in a semicircular motion. The bill snaps shut when it contacts prey, mainly fish and aquatic invertebrates.” (Birds of the World)

“Outside of a few areas like Florida, roseate spoonbills are rare these days. Back in the 1800s, the bright pink feathers that make spoonbills unique were prized by hunters.” (Florida State Parks)

Thankfully they survived that dark era of the plume trade and, fortunately for us Floridians, we see the Rosies often! 💗