Pretty in Pink April 25, 2011
Posted by nrhatch in Animals, Life Balance, Nature.comments closed
I learned something new the other day . . . flamingos use “blush” to attract mates.
The birds’ pink coloration flows from the carotenoid-rich crustaceans they consume, but the pigment pales after chicks hatch.
Since birds with the deepest coloring are the first to attract mates, the birds use their beaks to dab carotenoid-rich oil from glands near their tails onto their plumes and feathers during mating season to make them pinker and more attractive to the opposite sex.
Celebrate the joy of nature . . . the unexpected mysteries of life!
Quote: Nature does not ask, “what do they want me to be?” Its glory lies in its authenticity.
Related posts: National Geographic: Flamingos Apply “Make Up” * Sarasota Jungle Gardens * Teaching Old Birds New Tricks
Spirit Lights The Way 