UPDATE (as of July 22, 2024)
Frost Science is sad to share news of the loss of one of our recently hatched roseate spoonbill chicks. Please read the full story here: https://www.frostscience.org/museum-shares-loss-of-roseate-spoonbill-chick/
Frost Science is pleased to share the news that at the end of June, our pair of roseate spoonbills became parents—for the first time! Their two chicks appear to be healthy, and the adults have been attentive parents. The chicks hatched on Thursday, June 27, and Saturday, June 29, 2024. They can currently be seen in the museum’s Mary M. and Sash A. Spencer Aviary on the Vista level of the museum’s Aquarium.
The adult spoonbills came to Frost Science from SeaWorld Orlando in 2019. They were part of an Association of Zoos and Aquariums Species Survival Plan initiative to maintain healthy, sustainable populations of roseate spoonbills in zoos and aquariums, where they can inspire conservation action. While roseate spoonbills are not currently listed on the federal endangered species list, they are designated by the State of Florida as threatened. Roseate spoonbills are sensitive to habitat degradation, particularly in their feeding and nesting habitats.
“This is something very special,” says Skip Uricchio, the Frost Science Senior Director of Husbandry Operations and Living Exhibitions. “Roseate spoonbills are amazing ambassador animals in the aviary, and they have a lot of personality that draws guests in to learn more.” The museum holds roseate spoonbills with permission of the state’s Fish and Wildlife Commission, who are responsible for the species’ protection in Florida.
Though all four spoonbills are doing well, we are cognizant of the fact that with very young animals, fortunes can change. Frost Science’s experienced animal husbandry team is keeping a close watch on them and is prepared to enact contingency plans to care for the young should the need arise.
Guests visiting the museum may be able to catch a glimpse of the chicks and their parents, while keeping a safe distance.
The museum has also launched a naming competition for the chicks so that the community can be a part of this special occasion. To participate, the public can submit names now through Sunday, July 21. Once the museum creates a short list of options, the public will be invited to vote for their top pick. Museum members will select a second name from the list. Become a member today to help name a chick! For more information and to submit a name, please click here or enter below.
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