Flamingo Named Pinky Euthanized After Man Attacked It at Busch Gardens

Officials at Busch Gardens Tampa euthanized a flamingo Tuesday evening after she was attacked by a Florida man.

The Chilean flamingo named Pinky was killed because of severe injuries from the attack, Busch Gardens officials said.

“Pinky was a beloved member of the Busch Gardens Tampa Bay family and made many appearances on behalf of the park’s conservation and education efforts,” a park statement said. “She will be sorely missed.”

Pinky was injured after Joseph Anthony Corrao, 45, reached into the flamingo pen, picked up the bird and threw it on the ground, the Tampa Bay Times reported. The bird was transported to the park’s animal care center where veterinarians decided to “humanely euthanize” her because of the injuries.

Tampa police arrested Corrao, who was visiting the park with family. He was charged with a felony of animal cruelty.