Past, Present, and Future of American Flamingos in Florida

Thursday, May 16, 2019 – 6:30pm

Join us on May 16th, 2019 for our monthly lecture series with Dr. Steven M. Whitfield, Conservation and Research Specialist from Zoo Miami.

Topic: Past, Present, and Future of American Flamingos in Florida

American Flamingos are a cultural icon of South Florida, yet the status of flamingos in Florida has been controversial for nearly a century. Early naturalists exploring south Florida in the 1800s described large flocks of flamingos in the Florida Keys and Florida Bay, but today flamingos are among the rarest birds in the United States. When flamingos are seen in Florida, birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts are left wondering whether they are birds naturally arriving from the Caribbean, or are escaped birds from zoos. Dr. Whitfield will trace a 200-year history of flamingos in Florida – from the iconic paintings of John James Audubon in the 1830s, to Zoo Miami’s ongoing scientific and conservation efforts to help restore Florida’s lost icon.

Bio: Dr. Steven M. Whitfield

Dr. Steven Whitfield is a conservation biologist at Zoo Miami. For nearly 20 years, Dr. Whitfield has been conducting field research programs with rare and endangered species in the United States, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. Dr. Whitfield has a PhD in Biology from Florida International University, and has lived intermittently in Miami since 2002.

The event will begin at 6:30 pm with wine and light bites. The lecture will begin promptly at 7:00 pm.

Admission is always complimentary for members and $10 donations are suggested for guests. This is also a great opportunity to become a Kampong member, if you are not already, and become part of the NTBG family.

You may purchase a membership by calling 305-442-7169 ext. 100 or 103.

Space is limited. Please RSVP at kampong@ntbg.org or by calling 305-442-7169, ext. 100 or 103.