PHOTOS: Flamingos Hatch at Brevard Zoo for the First Time Ever
Cuteness has flocked to Brevard Zoo in the form of three Chilean flamingo chicks. Hatching September 26, 27, and 28, all three younglings are female and living in a behind-the-scenes area.
In mid-September, the Zoo acquired three eggs from Zoo Atlanta with a plan to hand-raise the chicks and later integrate them into the flock, known as a “flamboyance.” The youngsters are being hand-fed a formula made of eggs, liquefied fish and vitamins until they make the switch to their adult diet. Their feathers will develop their characteristic pink hue in the coming months and years.
“These are the first flamingos to hatch at the Zoo, and we are eagerly celebrating their arrival,” said Michelle Smurl, the Zoo’s director of animal programs. “Guests will soon see them accompanying keepers on ‘walks’ through the Zoo.”
Chilean flamingo eggs hatch following a four-week incubation period. The species—which is found throughout South America—is considered near threatened, facing conservation challenges from habitat loss and human hunting.
PHOTOS: © 2019 Brevard Zoo. All Rights Reserved.
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