In a sad bit of news we have learned that Pinky, the lovable flamingo, has died after an attack at the park. Pinky was a long-time resident at Bush Gardens in Tampa Bay, Florida. According to the police report 45-year-old Joseph Anthony Corrao, an Orlando native, is to blame for the attack. Accounts of the incident state that Joseph had been visiting the park with his family when he suddenly flew into a rage. The Florida resident is said to have reached into the pen and grabbed Pinky by the neck. Pinky was slammed to the pavement after being hoisted above the man’s head. Mr. Corrao had apparently taken issue with the flock of pink birds although his motive remains unknown.
The Busch Gardens veterinary team quickly rushed to aid the fallen bird and treated him at their on-site medical facilities. The attack left Pinky the flamingo with a partially severed foot, in addition to other injuries which were deemed too severe, and medical staff were unable to save the poor bird. The difficult decision to euthanize the iconic bird was made after carefully surveying the extent of his injuries.
Pinky the flamingo was famous for his love of dancing, an action common in nature but entertaining to watch. Throughout the years the 19 year old flamingo entertained scores of people with his great dance moves. His biggest claim to fame was his appearance at the 2012 republican national convention. While most people would feel nervous standing in front of so many people, Pinky bravely performed without hesitation.
On Wednesday Mr. Corrao appeared in court were he was charged with a felony count of aggravated cruelty to animals. His trial will likely draw attention from animal rights organizations across the country. The Humane Society and Sea World have issued a statement supporting a “zero-tolerance policy for this kind of cruelty.” A conviction carries a maximum penalty of $10,000 and up to 5 years in prison.