Newly-hatched chicks have gray or white down feathers, a straight red bill, and plump, swollen red or pink legs. The leg swelling decreases approximately 48 hours after hatching, and the red bill and legs turn black in seven to ten days. After hatching, a flamingo chick is not very agile. Movement is limited to pushing its wings or lifting its head. Parents are able to recognize their own chick by sight and vocalizations. They will feed no other chick. A flamingo chick will leave the nest after four to seven days, when it is strong enough to stand and walk. Parents keep a close, protective watch on their chick as it explores its habitat