Flamingo’s Habitat Enhancement

Increased Comfort Benefits Birds and Guests

The 2022 renovations of the Zoo’s flamingo habitat demonstrates how our commitment to animal welfare will also improve guests’ experience. The project began with the Zoo volunteer community choosing which of two projects would have the biggest impact at the Zoo. The hands-down choice was flamingos — the first animals guests see when they enter the Zoo. Volunteers then led a campaign to raise over $100,000 to fund habitat renovations.

Before this project, the Zoo’s flamingo flock was living safely, but their enclosure was not covered. This meant that Animal Care specialists had to trim the birds’ wings regularly to prevent them from flying. The significant improvement of a netcovered aviary eliminates that need and allows the birds to fly within’ their habitat. It also permits us to introduce African spoonbills, a bird species that like to live with flamingo flocks in the wild.

The re-designed habitat includes a new substrate, or ground surface, upgrades to the water system, and new trees. Since flamingos prefer to nest in the mud, the new substrate and improved water system should lead to more nesting and natural increase of the flock. Before long, we will add tree-dwelling species to take advantage of the flight space and trees. Additionally, Zoo guests will see more naturalistic animal behaviors for a deeper experience and understanding of these fascinating and complex animals.