'Flamingo Naming Contest' At Palo Alto Zoo Lets Public Name Bird

PALO ALTO, CA — The public has an opportunity to name one of the Palo Alto Junior Museum & Zoo flamingos.

The zoo’s “Flamingo Naming Contest” runs through Mar. 31, with one submission allowed per person. Respondents are required to answer why they chose the particular name.

The zoo currently has two female and four male flamingos, and they are identified by a bright yellow band with a number.

“Names are a way for us, as education and conservation advocates, to engage in a conversation about science or wildlife conservation,” the zoo’s website states.

People are encouraged to think of names that are relevant to where flamingos come from in nature, an aspect of flamingo biology and conservation efforts surrounding their habitats. A worksheet is also available at the front desk of the zoo to guide visitors through a tour of the six flamingos.

The zoo will select 12 finalists for the name, and the winning name will be announced on April 26 — which is International Flamingo Day.

Click here for more information and to submit a name.