Man Accused Of Attacking Flamingo At Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

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TAMPA (CBSMiami) - An Orlando man was arrested after he reportedly attacked a flamingo at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.

On Tuesday, around 6:45 p.m., Joseph Carrao was with his family in the park's Jambo Junction animal viewing area when he reached into a pen and picked up a Chilean flamingo named Pinky. Witnesses told police Carrao, 45, then slammed it into the ground "in a rage."

"Pinky was immediately transported to the park's Animal Care Center were veterinarians made the decision to humanely euthanize her based on the severity of her injuries," according to a statement from the park.

Tampa police were called and Carrao was taken into custody and charged with felony animal cruelty.

Busch Gardens 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. She will be sorely missed."