Greater Flamingo
1. Bird Name
The Greater Flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus) is one of the most recognizable and fascinating species of birds in the world.
2. Appearance
Greater Flamingos are unmistakable for their distinctive pink hue, which ranges from pale, almost white to a bright pink, depending on their diet. Their feathers display a striking pink and black color contrast, with black-tipped wings that are only visible in flight. Their long, thin, curved necks and tall, stick-like legs are also quite distinct. The beak is uniquely shaped, being down-curved and pink with a black tip. Greater Flamingos have bright yellow eyes. There are minor differences in appearance between males and females with males being slightly larger and taller.
3. Size
A fully-grown Greater Flamingo reaches a height of between 110-150 cm (43-59 inches). The wingspan reaches up to 140-165 cm (55-65 inches), while the bird’s weight varies from 2-4 kg (4.4-8.8 lbs)
4. Habitat & Distribution
These birds are found across parts of Africa, southern Asia (including the Indian subcontinent), and parts of southern Europe. Some populations also exist in the Americas. They predominantly inhabit alkaline and saline lakes, and lagoons, or muddy flats.
5. Interesting Facts
Unlike most birds, Greater Flamingos are not born with their famous pink color which they acquire from their diet of brine shrimp and blue-green algae. Flamingos are also famously known for their one-legged stance — a posture that’s believed to conserve body heat providing the bird with much-needed rest. Another distinctive behavior is their synchronized group dancing during courtship, which includes wing displays, head turning, and neck stretching.
6. Diet
The Greater Flamingo’s diet consists predominantly of small crustaceans, molluscs, and tiny fish. Their unique bill shape and structure allow them to filter feed by holding their beak upside down in the water.
7. Behavior & Sounds
These birds are social creatures, often living in colonies of a few dozen to tens of thousands. The Greater Flamingo’s call in a crowded colony is a goose-like honking – a high-pitched “kow-kow-kow” or “hoh-hoh-hoh”.
8. Conservation Status
The Greater Flamingo is classified as “Least Concern” according to the IUCN Red List. However, threats for local populations may include habitat loss due to development and water pollution.
9. Lifespan
The Greater Flamingo has a lifespan of up to 60 years in the wild, one of the longest for birds, while in captivity, they can live between 20 to 30 years.
10. Additional Notes
Known as “Flamenco” in Spanish, “Flamant rose” in French and “Flamingo” in Italian, this bird’s bright plumage and graceful movements have symbolized beauty and balance in various cultures. They play a vital role in their ecosystems as their feeding habits stimulate the growth of blue-green algae. They also contribute to the nutrient content of the habitats by their droppings. Their communal nesting increases the temperature of the breeding site, decreasing the growth of potential predator populations due to high heat. And their eggs, chicks, adults, and their droppings (a.k.a flamingo guano) contribute as a food source for other species. Their standing on one leg, synchronized courtships, intense social life, and vibrant coloration also create significant interest in zoos and wildlife parks, raising awareness about these exceptional creatures and their conservation.
