Greater Flamingo

3 weeks ago door Timo Sedlmayr

Points: 60

Spotted

The Greater Flamingo is the largest and most widespread flamingo species, instantly recognizable by its vibrant pink plumage. These elegant birds thrive in saline and alkaline wetlands across vast geographical regions.

Where to spot

Found across Africa, southern Europe, and Asia. Look for them in coastal lagoons, salt pans, estuaries, large inland lakes, and other shallow wetlands.

How to spot

Observe large flocks feeding in shallow water, often standing on one leg. Their distinctive long neck and thick, downward-curving bill are key identification features. Listen for their characteristic goose-like honking calls.

When to spot

Year-round in many resident populations. The best times to observe large colonies are often during their breeding season (which varies by region) or during migration periods for transient groups.

Where to spot

Found across Africa, southern Europe, and Asia. Look for them in coastal lagoons, salt pans, estuaries, large inland lakes, and other shallow wetlands.

How to spot

When to spot

Year-round in many resident populations. The best times to observe large colonies are often during their breeding season (which varies by region) or during migration periods for transient groups.

Credits: Door Yathin S Krishnappa - Eigen werk, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=25062820

Credits: Door © Hans Hillewaert, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=3670045

The Greater Flamingo's iconic pink coloration comes from carotenoid pigments found in the brine shrimp and algae it consumes. Without these pigments in their diet, their feathers would be white.

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