About the Greater Flamingo
The Greater Flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus) is one of the largest and most widespread species of flamingo, found across parts of Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
Habitat
Greater Flamingos inhabit a variety of aquatic habitats, including saline or alkaline lakes, coastal lagoons, estuaries, mudflats, and salt pans. They are often found in shallow water bodies with extensive mudflats or sandy substrates where they can feed on algae, crustaceans, and other small aquatic organisms. These flamingos are also known to inhabit coastal marshes, mangrove swamps, and inland wetlands, particularly during the breeding season.
Length
Greater Flamingos are large birds, measuring approximately 110 to 150 centimeters (43 to 59 inches) in length, with a wingspan of about 140 to 165 centimeters (55 to 65 inches). They have a distinctive long neck, long legs, and a curved bill specialized for filter-feeding. Their plumage is predominantly pink or rose-colored, with contrasting black flight feathers on the wings.
Best Viewing
The best places to view Greater Flamingos are in wetland habitats and coastal areas within their range. Look for them in saline or alkaline lakes, coastal lagoons, estuaries, and mudflats where they are commonly found feeding and roosting. These flamingos are often seen wading in shallow water, using their specialized bills to filter-feed on small organisms and algae.