The Flamingos Are Back

For the first time in nearly a century, something extraordinary is happening in Florida’s wetlands — flamingos are nesting again. Not just passing through. Not just spotted after a storm. But staying, pairing up, building nests, and raising chicks.

It’s a moment wildlife lovers, birders, and Florida locals have been waiting decades to see.

The American flamingo was once a familiar sight in Florida, especially in the southern parts of the state. Early explorers and settlers described skies dotted with pink and shallow waters filled with feeding flocks.

But by the early 1900s, flamingos had all but vanished from Florida.
Overhunting, feather trading, egg collecting, and habitat destruction pushed them out. For decades, sightings were rare and often dismissed as escapees from zoos or birds blown in by hurricanes.

And then… things began to change.

Over the past decade, wildlife researchers and birdwatchers began noticing more frequent flamingo sightings in places like Everglades National Park and Florida Bay. These weren’t stressed storm refugees — they were healthy, feeding, and behaving like birds that belonged.

Still, nesting? That felt like a long shot.

Until now.

In a historic and heartwarming development, flamingos have officially been documented nesting and raising chicks in Florida for the first time in roughly 100 years.

That matters more than it sounds.

Nesting means:

The habitat is suitable

Food sources are stable

The birds feel safe enough to stay

Florida is once again home — not just a stopover

Flamingos are extremely selective about where they nest. They build cone-shaped mud mounds in shallow water, often returning to places that feel familiar and secure. Their decision to nest here sends a powerful message about the improving health of Florida’s ecosystems.

This isn’t just a “pretty bird” story. It’s a conservation success story.

The return of nesting flamingos reflects:

Wetland restoration efforts paying off

Improved water quality in key areas

Stronger wildlife protections

A growing recognition of Florida’s natural heritage

For a state often associated with beaches and theme parks, this moment reminds us that Florida’s wild heart still beats strong.

If you’re lucky enough to spot flamingos in the wild:

Keep your distance — nesting birds are easily stressed

Never approach nests or chicks

Avoid drones in wildlife areas

Report sightings responsibly through wildlife agencies

Admire them with your eyes — and your camera zoom — not your footsteps.

Seeing flamingos nesting in Florida again feels almost magical. Like nature saying, “I’m not done yet.”

After 100 years, the flamingos are reclaiming their place in the Sunshine State — one muddy nest, one fuzzy chick, and one breathtaking moment at a time.

And honestly?
Florida looks pretty in pink. 🦩

Our return isn’t just about us — it’s about healthy wetlands, clean water, and people who choose to protect what matters. Thank you for helping make Florida a safe place to nest again. Together, we’re building a future worth standing on one leg for.