PHOTOS: Roseate Spoonbill Chicks Hatch at Brevard Zoo

Brevard Zoo is celebrating the arrival of two roseate spoonbill chicks. One each hatched on May 16 and 17. The youngsters are thriving behind the scenes, and they have just begun eating solid food.

Genetic testing of an eggshell membrane revealed the younger chick is a male. The sex of the older chick has not yet been determined because its membrane dried prior to collection.

Roseate spoonbills are found in wetlands throughout South America, Central America, the Caribbean and the southeastern United States. Habitat loss and degradation threaten these birds throughout their range. Through its Restore Our Shores program, the Zoo is heavily involved in efforts to conserve and restore the Indian River Lagoon—a stronghold for the species.

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