The San Diego Zoo is home to three species of flamingos: the greater flamingo, the Chilean flamingo, and the lesser flamingo. These vibrant, long-legged birds are a captivating sight for visitors, and the Zoo’s flamingo exhibits offer a unique opportunity to learn about these fascinating creatures.
Species and Habitat
The San Diego Zoo houses three of the six flamingo species:
- Phoenicopterus roseus (greater flamingo)
- Phoenicopterus chilensis (Chilean flamingo)
- Phoeniconaias minor (lesser flamingo)
These social birds live in groups of varying sizes, from a few pairs to sometimes thousands or even tens of thousands. The Safari Park is home to the largest population of greater flamingos in North America.
Flamingos inhabit lagoons or large, shallow lakes, which may be quite salty or caustic. They dine on small creatures such as algae, diatoms, and crustaceans.
Age and Lifespan
Flamingos can live up to 33 years in the wild, but in zoos, they can live much longer. The San Diego Zoo’s oldest American flamingos are 65 and 63 years old, and both were wild-caught adults. The Zoo also has 22 birds over 30, with some producing chicks in their 50s.
Exhibits and Locations
At the San Diego Zoo, guests can see flamingos in two locations:
- The flamingo lagoon on Front Street
- Urban Jungle, where a smaller flock of American flamingos serve as animal ambassadors
At the Safari Park, guests can see the world’s largest Zoo flock of greater flamingos at African Outpost, as well as a flock of 126 lesser flamingos and 53 Chilean flamingos at Safari Base Camp.
Breeding and Foster Parenting
The San Diego Zoo has successfully implemented a foster parenting program, where American flamingos raise greater flamingo chicks. This program supports the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Species Survival Plan (SSP) for greater flamingos, creating a healthy assurance population.
Education and Engagement
Visitors can learn about flamingo behavior, nesting, and chick development by observing the flamingos in their exhibits. The Zoo also offers opportunities for guests to hand-feed American flamingos, allowing for a unique and engaging experience.
Interesting Facts about San Diego Zoo Flamingos
- The San Diego Zoo’s Safari Park is home to the largest population of greater flamingos in North America.
- The Zoo’s oldest American flamingos are 65 and 63 years old, and both were wild-caught adults.
- The Zoo has 22 flamingos over 30 years old, with some producing chicks in their 50s.
- The Zoo’s foster parenting program helps support the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Species Survival Plan for greater flamingos.
- Visitors can hand-feed the American flamingos, providing a unique and engaging experience.
Conclusion
The San Diego Zoo’s flamingo exhibits offer a captivating and educational experience for visitors. From the vibrant colors of the birds to their fascinating behaviors and life histories, these remarkable creatures are a highlight of any visit to the Zoo or Safari Park. Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or a first-time Zoo visitor, the San Diego Zoo’s flamingos are sure to leave a lasting impression.
References:
– Flamingo | San Diego Zoo Safari Park, https://sdzsafaripark.org/animals/flamingo
– Growing Up Flamingo – San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance Stories, https://stories.sandiegozoo.org/zoonooz/growing-up-flamingo/
– Flamingo | San Diego Zoo Animals & Plants, https://animals.sandiegozoo.org/animals/flamingo