Bad shrimp kill
It seems clear that there is color variation that results from variable shrimp consumption
Sigh. Flamingos are not genetically pink. They get their color from their food (shrimp). It's questionable to see color in a flamingo and thereby conclude that some genetic ancestor therefore had color.
Right. My guess is, some of these birds ended up meeting their demise after getting dressed up for their night out, a little color here and there.. the smell of krill in feathering... a little mud up to the kneecaps...
Bad shrimp kill
It seems clear that there is color variation that results from variable shrimp consumption