American flamingos are found in Florida’s wild, a presence confirmed by recent research and increased sightings. Their current presence is a result of both a historical native population and more recent recolonization efforts.
Flamingos in Florida’s Past
The American flamingo, Phoenicopterus ruber, was once a common sight across Florida’s wetlands and coastal areas. Historical accounts from the 19th century describe large flocks, sometimes numbering in the hundreds or even thousands, inhabiting regions like the Everglades and the Florida Keys. Early naturalists, including John James Audubon in 1832, documented these abundant populations.
However, by the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the American flamingo population in Florida faced a rapid decline. Relentless overhunting for their vibrant feathers, meat, and eggs led to their extirpation from the state’s wild by around 1900. For many decades, flamingos were considered largely absent from Florida’s natural landscapes.
The Return of Flamingos to Florida
Despite their near disappearance, flamingos have been increasingly observed in Florida in recent decades, sparking renewed scientific interest. For a long time, there was a debate about whether these sightings represented wild birds recolonizing or merely escapees from captive collections. Facilities like Hialeah Park, which imported flamingos from Cuba in 1934 and successfully bred them, contributed to this uncertainty.
Recent studies, including a 2018 review, confirm American flamingos are native to Florida, with their increasing presence largely due to natural recolonization. Research utilizing satellite tracking and genetic analysis shows dispersal from wild populations in the Caribbean, such as Cuba and the Yucatán Peninsula. While some escapees from captive populations do occur, the growing number of sightings indicates wild birds are re-establishing their presence. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission now officially recognizes flamingos as a native species.
Hurricane Idalia in August 2023 contributed to recent increases, carrying hundreds of flamingos, likely from Mexico or the Bahamas, into Florida and other states. Unlike previous storm-driven appearances, many birds remained; a February 2024 Audubon Florida census counted over 100 individuals. This suggests the start of a more permanent population, though they are not yet considered a fully re-established breeding population in the wild.
Where to See Flamingos in Florida
Observing wild flamingos in Florida requires knowing their preferred habitats. These birds favor shallow coastal lagoons, mudflats, and estuaries, where they filter feed on small invertebrates and algae. Their diet of carotene-rich organisms contributes to their distinctive pink coloration.
The Everglades National Park and Florida Bay are among the most promising areas for sightings. Specific locations within the Everglades, such as Snake Bight, Florida Bay near Cape Sable, and the Flamingo visitor center area, have reported consistent observations. Occasionally, flamingos are also seen in urban wetlands or stormwater treatment areas, like STA2 in Palm Beach County. Sightings are still relatively uncommon and can depend on seasonal movements or environmental conditions, with the dry season from December to April often being optimal. Ethical birdwatching practices, such as maintaining at least 200 feet of distance to avoid disturbing the birds, are important for responsible viewing.