An unmistakable bird of south Florida’s mangroves and freshwater estuaries, the Roseate Spoonbill population is on the increase. After nearly being extirpated by the middle of the 19th century by plume hunters, Roseate Spoonbill’s are still vulnerable, though due to a different reason - development and climate change. 

Nesting colonies have been found throughout Florida in recent years and are super stars at the J. Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge in Sanibel, Florida where the colonies are encouraged and nurtured. The Spoonbill is protected by the U.S. Migratory Bird Treaty Act, and as a State-designated threatened species by Florida’s Endangered and Threatened Species Rule. Survival depends on maintaining its shallow feeding grounds and control of pesticides.

Gorgeous at a distance and bizarre up close- that is the Spoonbill. As waders, Spoonbills feed in shallow waters, walking forward slowly while they swing their heads from side to side sifting the muck with their wide flat spoon shaped bills. They forage by wading in shallow mucky water with their mandibles slightly open, detecting prey from sensitive nerve endings in their specialized bill. Small fish, insects and crustaceans are among their favorite foods.

A diet that is full of carotenoids, an organic pigment, gives the Spoonbill its beautiful pink color. Spoonbills are often seen feeding with other wading birds.

Spoonbills nest in mixed colonies, near other wading bird species, in mangroves or trees along the coast while some nest inland. They are also attracted to the dredged-made islands. The female builds the nest while the male retrieves the materials.

The females lay up to three whitish- brown speckled eggs. Both adults incubate the eggs for up to 24 days. The young remain in the nest for approximately 42 days. Most interesting is this quote from University of Florida Professor, Peter Frederick, of the department of wildlife ecology and conservation: “We have known for some time that ibises, storks, spoonbills and herons seem to always have alligators underneath their nests. Alligators service as nest protectors - keeping raccoons out of the colony, which are otherwise devastating nest predators”.

The immature birds are light pink wings and bodies. Adults (3 years) take on a much brighter pink, highlighted by an orange tail, bright red rump, shoulders, and chest. Black skin is found on the sides and back of neck. The head has no feathers. There is no noticeable migration. Their song and call are low croaks and clucking sounds.

Some information in this article obtained from Florida Fish and Wildlife and The Audubon Society