About the Lesser Flamingo
The Lesser Flamingo (Phoeniconaias minor) is a species of flamingo found in various parts of sub-Saharan Africa, as well as in parts of India and Pakistan.
Habitat
Lesser Flamingos are commonly found in shallow alkaline or saline lakes, salt pans, and coastal lagoons. They are highly adapted to these harsh, arid environments and are often seen wading in water bodies with high concentrations of algae and other aquatic organisms, which form the basis of their diet. These flamingos are known for their spectacular mass gatherings, or "flamingo clouds," in their breeding and feeding areas.
Length
Lesser Flamingos are medium-sized flamingos, measuring approximately 80 to 90 centimeters (31 to 35 inches) in length, with a wingspan of about 120 to 150 centimeters (47 to 59 inches). They have long, slender legs, a long, curved neck, and a characteristic downward-curving bill used 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 Lesser Flamingos are in their preferred habitats, such as alkaline or saline lakes and coastal lagoons. Some well-known locations for observing Lesser Flamingos include Lake Nakuru and Lake Bogoria in Kenya, Lake Natron in Tanzania, and the Walvis Bay lagoon in Namibia. Additionally, they can be seen in parts of India and Pakistan, such as the Rann of Kutch and the Great Rann of Kutch.