Ken, the world’s “pinkest” pink flamingo, makes dazzling debut at Birdworld
There’s a new bird in town, who has made a grand entrance among Birdworld’s feathered residents.
Ken the flamingo is a life-size model painted in the “world’s pinkest pink,” the striking shade made famous by British artist Stuart Semple, creator of Black 2.0, the “blackest” black paint in the world.
Standing at 1.1 metres, the vibrant statue made his debut at Flamingo Cove on National Flamingo Day (25 April), enjoying significant interest from guests and birds alike.
Mandy Glass, Team Leader of Conservation Education at Birdworld, said: “Flamingos around the world are facing decline, with four of the six species becoming a conservation concern due to human disturbance of their feeding and breeding grounds. We introduced Ken to Birdworld not only to raise vital funds for these magnificent birds but also to address the frequently asked question: ‘Why are flamingos so pink?’
Mandy continued: “To put it simply, flamingos are hatched white, but they soon acquire their vibrant pink colour from their diet of shrimp, plankton, and algae, which contains pigments that dye their feathers. As the chicks grow, they gradually become pinker, reaching their brightest hue when fully grown-the pinkest of pinks!”
Sadly, Ken’s stay at the UK’s largest bird park is only brief. He is soon to go to open auction, with proceeds going towards flamingo conservation.
Marketing Manager Woodies Wheeler-Bennett said: “The team have had a brilliant time welcoming Ken to the flock. Although we are sure his new flamingo friends would be disappointed to say goodbye, we are excited to raise vital funds for flamingo conservation through the upcoming auction.
“More information on the auction will be announced soon, but in the meantime, please come visit Birdworld and see Ken for yourself before he flies off to his new home.”
Ken’s timely introduction coincides with the launch of Birdworld’s eagerly anticipated Love + Colour attraction, set to open on 25 May. The immersive experience features an array of magnificent colourful birds in an enchanting walkthrough experience with vibrant murals created by local artist Jen Leach Murals.
The area also includes beautifully designed ‘selfie’ spots perfect for visitors of all ages, along with interactive play areas specially designed for young children.
Focusing on the intricate relationship-building of birds and the lessons humans can draw from these behaviours, ‘Love + Colour’ offers a unique learning. It seeks to share knowledge about avian relationships and mating rituals in a manner that’s both educational and enjoyable, encouraging visitors to draw parallels with their own relationship experiences.
Love + Colour is a free attraction included with admission at no extra cost. The campaign will be ongoing, with the official launch celebrations taking place from 25 May to 2 June.
For media enquiries please email Natalie natalie@carswellgould.co.uk