TV on a Rolling Cart

Why are flamingos pink?

From Mystery Doug

Why are flamingos pink?
8 minK1st2nd3rd4th5thScience
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Summary

Mystery Doug takes on a real kid's question -- "Why are flamingos pink?" -- and follows the clues. Flamingos are born gray and turn pink from a pigment in the shrimp and algae they eat -- they're literally colored by their food. A quick five-minute watch to spark curiosity and kick off a conversation.

Viewer safety

All ages
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Teaching resources

Discussion questions

Discussion

Doug investigates a question kids really asked: "Why are flamingos pink?"

  1. What was Doug's answer to today's question, in your own words?
  2. What surprised you most about flamingo, or what did you already know?
  3. What's one thing this makes you want to find out more about?

Quick work-a-long

Words to know: flamingo, pigment, diet.

Try it: Explain the answer to "Why are flamingos pink?" to someone at home using these three words, then write down one new question it made you wonder.