The word “flamingo” comes from the Spanish and Latin word “flamenco” which means fire, and refers to the bright colour of the birds’ feathers. Flamingo chicks are born gray or white and take up to three years to reach their mature pink, orange, or red plumage.

An adult flamingo’s legs can be 30-50 inches long, which is longer than its entire body. Flamingos often stand on one leg to preserve body heat, tucking the other leg into their plumage so it is kept warm. They will alternate legs to regulate their body temperature.