These birds spend much time feeding in the shallow waters
of Florida Bay and the Gulf of Mexico on shrimp, small fish,
snails, and aquatic insects, which they detect by their sense
of touch as they rhythmically sweep their "spoon-shaped" bills
from side to side. Early in the century their numbers were
severely depleted by plume hunters, but with protective laws
they have increased once again.

description 30-32" (76-81 cm). W. 4'5" (1.3 m). Bill long and
straight with broad spatulate tip from which the bird gets its
name. Mainly white, with brilliant pink wings and flanks, and
orange tail; shoulder rich crimson.