The Animals Flamingo Plaza Flamingo Plaza was the first exhibit to be completed under Zoo Atlanta's extensive redevelopment plan. It opened to the public in 1987. Featured in the exhibit are Chilean flamingos and their feeding and wading pools. The habitat, which adjoins the zoo's entry plaza, serves as a meeting place for visitors as they begin their day at the zoo.
Chilean flamingos are one of six species of flamingos.
They range throughout the mountainous regions of Chile and Peru. Their pink color comes from the natural substance, carotene, which is found in their diet of small shrimp-like creatures and algae. This is the same substance which gives color to shrimp, marigolds and carrots. Flamingos are white when they hatch, grey as juveniles and pink as adults. This flock has successfully bred and produced offspring in this habitat.