Lesser Flamingos | 13 Jun 2025

Source: TH 

A large number of lesser flamingos have recently arrived at Chhaya pond in Porbandar, Gujarat, from where they will migrate to the Great Rann of Kutch, along the India-Pakistan border, for breeding.

Lesser Flamingo (Phoeniconaias minor): 

• It is the smallest flamingo species, found across sub-Saharan Africa, and in parts of India, Pakistan, and the Arabian Gulf.  
• In India, it primarily inhabits brackish and coastal water bodies.  
• It is classified as Near Threatened by the IUCN, listed under CITES Appendix II and under Schedule IV of WPA, 1972. 

Flamingos: 

• About: Flamingos are tall water birds known for their long, S-shaped necks and stick-like legs.  
  • They are highly social and often seen in large flocks inhabiting shallow, eutrophic water bodies such as saline lagoons, saltpans, and alkaline lakes. 
• Species: There are 6 species of flamingos found globally in tropical and subtropical regions, with only 2 found in India (Greater & Lesser Flamingo). 
  • Other Species: 
    • Chilean Flamingo (Phoenicopterus chilensis) 
    • American/Caribbean Flamingo (Phoenicopterus ruber) 
    • Andean Flamingo (Phoenicoparrus andinus) 
    • James’s or Puna Flamingo (Phoenicoparrus jamesi) 
• Diet & Colouration: Flamingos feed on algae, molluscs, and crustaceans. Their plumage colour, ranging from white to pink to orange, is determined by carotenoid pigments in their diet. 
• Common Migratory Route: