A group of Chilean flamingos at a North East nature reserve are celebrating their 40th birthdays this week.
The 11 flamingos at WWT Washington Wetland Centre are inviting visitors to join in the celebrations.
On Saturday (September 28), the centre has organised a 'flamingo day,' which will feature a range of activities, including flamingo talks, a crafts session, and flamingo-themed cupcakes.
Dan Morrison, WWT Washington's animal collection team manager, said: "We're excited to be sharing this special occasion with visitors.
"It gives everyone the chance to learn a bit more about this fascinating bird species and about our individual birds here at the centre.
"The flamingos are definitely one of our more eye-catching birds and are very popular with visitors, so we know everyone will enjoy helping us celebrate in style."
The flamboyant flock of 56 Chilean flamingos are the only ones in the North East - and the most northern flock in England.
They have been part of WWT Washington Wetland Centre's collection for more than 38 years, first arriving in 1986 when the Catherine Cookson flamingo house was originally built.
Sixteen flamingos were brought in from WWT's founding site in Slimbridge, forming the very first flamingo flock in Washington and the region.
Thirteen of the original 16 flamingos are still at the wetland centre today, including the 11 birthday boys and girls and a further two who are at the grand age of 42 years old.
Mr Morrison added: "Chilean flamingos can live up to their 60s, so there’s still lots of life left in these birds.
"Each of our flamingos has a unique leg ring, and as part of the day’s celebrations we’re asking visitors to spot these leg rings to find different birds and learn more about them.
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"It’s a fun activity to do and helps you feel even closer to our animals."
Special talks will take place on Saturday at 11.45am and 2.45pm.
For more information about the event click HERE
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