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 Flamingo (Aves Ciconiformes Phoenicopteriformes)

Courtesy of Dr. G. A. Simon

The classification of flamingos has puzzled taxonomists for years. The pelvis and ribs of a flamingo are similar to those of storks. The composition of egg-white proteins in flamingo eggs is similar to that of the heron. Behaviour patterns, especially those of chichs, link them closely to geese. Flamingos also have webbed feet and waterproof plumage like geese.

Fossil evidence indicates that the group from which flamingos evolved is very old and existed about 30 million years ago, before many other avian orders had evolved.

All flamingos are found in tropical and subtropical areas. Their most characteristic habitats are large alkaline or saline lakes or estuarine lagoons that usually lack vegetation. The only source of fresh water for some of these birds comes from boiling geysers. They are capable of drinking water at temperatures that approach the boiling point. Flamingos excrete salt through salt glands in the nostrils.

Blue-green and red algae, diatoms, larval and adult forms of small insects, crustaceans, molluscs, and small fishes make up the main diet of flamingos. A flamingo’s pink or reddish feather, leg, and facial coloration come from a diet high in alpha and beta carotenoid pigments, including canthaxanthin. The richest sources of carotenoids are found in the algae and various insects that make up the staples of a flamingo’s diet.

Flamingos are generally non-migratory birds. However, due to changes in the climate and water levels in their breeding areas, flamingo colonies are not always permanent. Most of those who migrate will return to their native colony to breed. When flamingos migrate, they do so mainly at night. They can travel up to 600 km in one night at about 50 to 60 km/h.

Flamings reach sexual maturity several years after hatching and usually begin to breed at about six years of age. They build nest mounds made of mud, small stones, straw, and feathers. These mounds can be as high as 30 cm. The female most often lay one large egg (115-140 g). The incubation period is between 26 and 31 days. The flamingo chick will leave the nest after four to seven days, when it is strong enough to stand and walk. Parents keep a close, protective watch on their chick as it explores its habitat. Experts have not yet determined how long flamingos live. There is a report of a zoo flamingo that lived 44 years.