Hatched! Flamingo Flock Grows by One

Flamingo chick lies low in the nest between an adult flamingo’s long pink legs

“Welcoming our second flamingo chick is an incredibly exciting moment for the Junior Museum & Zoo. After celebrating Rio’s hatch last year, seeing Sal and Ruby successfully expand our flamboyance again is very special for our team, our visitors, and the future of our zoo. We’re thrilled to watch this little one grow alongside Rio and continue this wonderful milestone for our facility.” - Sean Ramsdell, Zoo Director

Each "pip" was a testament to the chick's strength — it is a long and exhausting process to break through the egg of the shell. The hatching process can take up to 36 hours, and it is demanding not only for the chick, but for the parents as well. 

Underneath the tree, you may be able to catch a glimpse of the flamingo chick. It has already taken its first steps and is receiving the best care from Ruby and Sal.

Although we are optimistic about the chick, it is worth acknowledging that this is a very delicate time, and there can still be unexpected challenges. The Animal Care staff will continue to provide the utmost care for the flamingo chick, and we will share any new updates as they come. 

For now, we will be continuing daily flamingo feedings - you may see that the flock is less interested in food than usual, and this can be attributed to the nesting season. 

This month, we are also introducing Animal Ambassador Adventures! Spend the afternoon in our behind-the-scenes ambassador animal area to learn about the magical world of these animals.

Adult flamingo bends its neck around a small chick nestled beneath its pale pink feathers.

Adult flaming with chick

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Adult flamingo stands over a fluffy white chick resting between its long pink legs in the nest.

Flamingo and chick in nest

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Flamingo chick lies low in the nest between an adult flamingo’s long pink legs

Flamingo chick resting

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Flamingo chick stands upright and stretches small wings.

Flamingo chick stretching

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Young flamingo chick with white down and pink legs stands on a muddy nest in leafy shade.

Flamingo chick standing

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All photos were captured and edited by John Warren.

Did you know? 

"Pipping" is the process of a chick working its way out of an egg using their "egg tooth". An egg tooth is a temporary sharp calcium deposit on its beak!

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