Looking for something fun, free, and a little different to do? Check out the flock of decorated pink flamingo lawn ornaments at Matthaei Botanical Gardens.

There are dozens of decorated flamingos on display. Some were created by Matthaei staff, others by students from the University of Michigan and Ann Arbor Public Schools, and others by community members. You can vote for your favorite creation by the number on its sign (Matthaei staff creations are not numbered). Get your ballots in the Matthaei lobby. (Update: Apparently voting has concluded, even though the flamingos are on display through September 30. Check out the winners.)

If you are wondering why flamingos are pink, it has to do with their diet. The algea and small crustaceans they eat are rich in carotenoid pigments, which are reddish orange. Carotenoids also give carrots and red/orange fall foliage their color.

Fabulous Flamingos: A Whimsical Garden Display runs now through September 30 at Matthaei Botanical Gardens, 1800 N. Dixboro Road, Ann Arbor.

For more photos of flamingos, as well as some flowers at Matthaei, click here.

Update: I've gotten more details about the Ypsilanti Garden Walk: Tour six gardens on August 21 from noon to 5:00 p.m. Tickets are $10, available prior to the event at Norton’s Flower’s & Gifts, Mantis Pet Supply, Salt City Antiques, and Apple Annie’s Vintage Clothing & Jim MacDonald Antiques, and on the day of the tour at Towner House.

Monica Milla, the Garden Faerie, is a master gardener volunteer, garden speaker, garden coach, and author of "Fun with Winter Seed Sowing."