This behaviour is due to the structure of its mouth and the entire process of lowering its long, graceful neck into the water. Flamingos are referred to as ‘filter feeders’. A flamingo will scoop in mouthful of water and close its mouth while forcing the water out with its tongue. Hairy projections called ‘mandibles’ in its beak help retain the food inside. Analysis of its stomach-content has revealed that a flamingo can eat almost everything, like crustaceans, worms, algae, organic debris, fish, plant material and insects too. The flamingo has the unique ability to move its top jaw while eating.
Why do flamingos eat upside down?
