American spoonbill (SciiFii)

The American spoonbill (Platalea americana) is a gregarious species of wading bird of the ibis and spoonbill family, Threskiornithidae, that originally did not exist, but has since been created by SciiFii and introduced throughout the wetlands, lakes, and rivers across North America to help boost biodiversity. The closest living relative to the American spoonbill is the roseate spoonbill (Platalea ajaja), which lives in South and Central America, as well as the southern parts of Florida and eastern parts of Texas. The American spoonbill is 71–86 cm (28–34 in) long, with a 120–133 cm (47–52 in) wingspan and a body mass of 1.2–1.8 kg (2.6–4.0 lb). Compared with the roseate spoonbill, the American spoonbill has a more dull coloration, being entirely white in color, which can lead to people mistaking the American spoonbill for an egret at first glance. However, like the roseate spoonbill, the American spoonbill's beak is yellowish or pinkish in color. Unlike herons, American spoonbills fly with their necks outstretched. They alternate groups of stiff, shallow wingbeats with glides. This species feeds in shallow fresh or coastal waters by swinging its bill from side to side as it steadily walks through the water, often in groups. The spoon-shaped bill allows it to sift easily through mud. It feeds on crustaceans, aquatic insects, frogs, newts and very small fish ignored by larger waders. The American spoonbill nests in shrubs or trees, often mangroves, laying two to five eggs, which are whitish with brown markings. Immature American spoonbills have tan, feathered heads, and the pink of the plumage is pale, unlike the adult's purely white feathers. The conservation status of the American spoonbill is Least Concern due to successful conservation efforts, the American spoonbill's wide range and its tolerance to many of the human activities.
Category:Animals
Category:Species
Category:SciiFii