Flamingo so, sleepy. Just need a little nap…
I wonder what our pink friend here is dreaming about? Maybe Shrimp?
Flamingoes are naturally colored gray or white when they are born, but they turn pink during the first couple of years. This is because of the significant amount of beta carotene intake from the algae and brine shrimp they consume – which gives them their famous pinkish pigment.
This beautiful, pink flamingo appears to carelessly take a quick snooze, unaware of the dangers around. But don’t let that fool you. Flamingoes, like whales and dolphins, are known to turn off half their brains during sleep.
They also tend to stand on one leg when sleeping, as this is a natural reflex that helps them maintain their balance as well as preserves their energy. Flamingoes can stand on one foot for extensive periods, as their slender, lean and long legs and joints can lock their resting legs in one place.
These magnificent birds, while found in warmer tropical climates such as Africa, South America, and the Caribbean – seem to be able to live without any trouble in spite of the number of predators around.
This is because despite their seemingly frail appearance, Flamingoes are capable of handling themselves when predators are around. Not only are they able to escape quickly due to their long legs, but their innate capacity to preserve energy means they have a lot when the rubber meets the road.
Aside from this, Flamingoes are highly social creatures. They love to hang out with their kind and form friendships that last their entire life. Their mates, who they pick after doing a special dance, can stick together for a lifetime. They will breed and raise chicks together year after year.
So don’t worry about our napping pink friend here. They’ve got this.
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