ORLANDO, Fla. – When it comes to upgrading your experience at Discovery Cove, guests can now think pink.
On Friday, the all-inclusive day resort held its grand opening of Flamingo Point. The new dedicated habitat will allow guests to view graceful birds up close throughout the day while learning from the park’s expert aviculturists.
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“As with The Grand Reef, Dolphin Lagoon, and other animal habitats here at Discovery Cove, Flamingo Point does double duty as a safe, familiar environment for these beautiful birds, while also serving as an amazing opportunity for our guests to observe and learn the importance of conservation,” said Brad Gilmour, Discovery Cove’s Park President.
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Viewing flamingos in their new home will be included with admission. For those looking for an up-close experience, guests can enjoy a Flamingo Mingle. The upgraded program starts at just $59 per person and provides the opportunity to meet and mingle with Caribbean Flamingos in a safe and controlled environment.
The experience also allows for a question-and-answer session with the park’s expert aviculturists. With a limited number of slots available each day, guests are encouraged to make reservations in advance. Five percent of Flamingo Mingle proceeds will be donated to Audubon Florida as part of a new partnership.
“Continuing our commitment to the protection of animals in wild places, we’re happy to announce a partnership with Audubon Florida, where we can work together to educate our guests about how they can protect wild birds and ecosystems, all while helping make a positive impact on the future of flamingos and their natural habitats,” Gilmour said.
According to Audobon Florida, flamingos have a troubled history in Florida. At the start of the 20th century, hundreds of thousands were killed as their bright feathers were used to decorate women’s hats. Shortly after, Audubon Florida was founded to protect the state’s wading bird population.
Florida saw an uptick in flamingo sightings in 2023, as the bright pink birds were likely carried in by Hurricane Idalia and scattered throughout the state.
“Most will migrate back to where they came from, but Audobon’s Everglades Science Center is monitoring the flamingo population and we hope that a few will decide to make Florida home,” said Katie Warner, Director of Audubon Florida Center for Birds of Prey.
For a limited time, Florida residents can save up to 40% on admission to Discovery Cove. Food and beverages are included with admission, as well as access to The Grand Reef, Freshwater Oasis, Explorer’s Aviary, and Serenity Bay.
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