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Roseate Spoonbill

Roseate Spoonbill

Platalea ajaja

About the Roseate Spoonbill

The Roseate Spoonbill (Platalea ajaja) is a species documented in our database. Learn more about this species through the information below.

Conservation Status

Roseate Spoonbill is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Population Trend

stable

Current Threats

  • Habitat loss and degradation
  • Pollution
  • Climate change

Photo Gallery

3 photos available

Geographic Distribution

Distribution by Region

Southeastern United States

Continent: North America
Country: United States
Region: Florida, Louisiana, Texas

Caribbean

Continent: North America
Country: Various
Region: Islands of the Caribbean Sea

Central and South America

Continent: South America
Country: Various
Region: Countries from Mexico to Argentina

Distribution Overview

The Roseate Spoonbill is a widespread species found in the Americas, inhabiting coastal wetlands, mangrove forests, and freshwater marshes.

Quick Facts

Size
71 - 86 cm
Weight
1.2 - 2.5 kg
Lifespan
up to 15-20 years years
Diet
Small fish (minnows, guppies)Crustaceans (shrimp, crabs)Insects (aquatic insects, grasshoppers)Frogs and tadpoles

Habitat

Coastal wetlandsMangrove forestsFreshwater marshesShallow lakes

Behavior

  • Feeds in shallow water, using its spoon-shaped bill to scoop up prey
  • Engages in social behavior, often found in large flocks
  • Breeds in colonies, with pairs forming during breeding season
  • Females lay 2-5 eggs, which are incubated for approximately 24 days
  • Both parents care for young, which leave the nest after approximately 40-50 days