The ABQ BioPark's Bird Care Team has announced the successful hatching of an American flamingo chick, marking a significant milestone for the park's breeding program. Flamingo Island, the first habitat visible to guests upon entering the gates, now includes this new addition.
Mini and Moose, both 21 years old, are key members of the American Flamingo Species Survival Plan (SSP) due to their unique genetic profile. They were relocated to the BioPark from a Miami facility in 2003. Despite many seasons of courting, this is their first confirmed offspring. Mini laid a single egg at the end of May, which is typical for flamingos. After an incubation period of approximately 28 days, the chick hatched on June 28, 2024, in a specialized incubator and is currently being hand-reared by the bird care team.
Raising a flamingo chick requires meticulous attention and patience. The team tracks air bubble expansion inside the shell using pencil lines to monitor progress leading up to the internal pip—the moment when the chick pierces its internal membrane to start breathing air. Hatching typically follows within 48 hours after this stage.
Following hatching, veterinary staff conduct initial health checks on the chick. This includes cleaning the umbilicus to prevent infection, recording its weight, and ensuring it shows appropriate strength and hydration levels. The ongoing care involves scheduled feedings and maintaining optimal temperature conditions using a brooder.
One notable aspect of raising a baby flamingo is helping it practice walking with its long legs. As it gains strength, visitors may soon observe bird care team members assisting the young chick in exploring its surroundings until it can join the rest of the flock in their habitat.
