Olympus OM-10, handheld. Vivitar 75-260 at 260mm Kodak Gold 400 Exposure unrecorded

Distinctive

Probably a pretty recognizable profile to most people, American Flamingos (Phoenicopterus ruber) are hard to mistake for any other bird. Like all avians, the beak is a specialized tool that reflects their food source and feeding habits -- in this case, sifting small shellfish from the mud. And yes, their food is also what gives them their pink color.

While visible primarily in Florida and occasionally further up the coast, this one was snapped at the NC Zoo. I prefer this shot largely because of the delicate pastel background in appropriate colors.