Roseate Spoonbill

C Fi 9689

Roseate spoonbills are an eye-catching breed of bird due to their colorful plumage and spoon-shaped bills. You may be surprised to learn these birds aren’t born with their signature bills. Over the course of six weeks following a spoonbill’s birth, its bill flattens out, changes into a spoon-like shape and grows to its full size. These spoons come in handy when it’s dinner time. The birds stick their bills underwater and move them back and forth, capturing some tasty treats. Speaking of dinner, like flamingos, roseate spoonbill’s coloring comes from their diet (think shrimp). And here’s a fun fact – a group of roseate spoonbills is called a bowl.

In the late 19th century, roseate spoonbills faced extinction in North America due to the popularity of their feathers for use in hats, fans and screens. Groups like the National Audubon Society stepped in and established preserves for the birds. They became a protected species in the 1940s. The efforts were so successful that they no longer require this special status.

Artist

Bridget Lyons

Bridget Lyons is a Florida Artist who focuses on colors and contrast in her paintings. That love of color has become a staple in her choices for street painting, although, she has pushed her range and begun to explore black and white images. Over the years, she has moved from flat, bright images to develop her passion for colors and just how far she can push the limits. Her style continues to evolve in street painting, by her mixed use of carefully selected reproductions and inspired original pieces. Aside from street painting, She also enjoys photography and painting in acrylics.

Written By

Nanette Crist

Nanette Crist is a retired lawyer who began blogging when she moved to Florida. It was an online diary of sorts, a way to keep track of her new life. It was also a good way to share her discoveries with friends and family outside the area. Over time, Nanette realized her writing makes her experience the world differently. She keeps an eye out for interesting things to write about and then delves more deeply into them as she crafts her words. It's all about telling the story. Nanette's blog can be found at http://nanettesnewlife.blogspot.com.