Why do flamingos get their pink color? When they're born, flamingos are actually gray or white. Their pink and reddish hues come from carotenoid pigments in the algae and crustaceans they eat. Without this diet, flamingos would remain pale. Zoos even add supplements to ensure captive flamingos keep their vibrant color. The brighter the pink, the healthier and more attractive a flamingo looks to potential mates. Their famous shade is literally diet made visible. | ScienceCore

Plantcubby on Instagram: "🦩✨ Baby flamingo learning to paddle! Did you know that flamingo chicks are born with gray or white down feathers and straight little beaks? It takes a few weeks before their legs grow strong enough to wade confidently through the water — and those graceful pink feathers only appear after several months! 🌸"