Scientific name: Phoeniconaias minor
Gregarious bird that forms enormous flocks in saline wetlands where it filters microorganisms.
What Lesser Flamingo is like in its natural environment, with the climate, shelters and resources it needs.
The lesser flamingo is a key species of African saline lakes, where it forms enormous concentrations visible from great distances.
Prefers shallow lakes with high concentrations of salts and microorganisms, areas exposed to sun with few wooded zones.
Very gregarious and spends much of the day feeding in groups, moving in shallow waters with inverted beak.
Its beak filters microscopic organisms in extreme environments. Its pink plumage reflects a diet rich in carotenoid pigments.
Threatened by pollution, mineral extraction, water diversion and human disturbance at breeding lakes.
Striking details about Lesser Flamingo that show its biology and ecology in a different way.
Aspects to consider if Lesser Flamingo is kept in captivity at specialized centers.
In captivity requires extensive lagoons, with water of specific composition and sufficient space for group movement.
Needs carefully managed water and ground conditions to avoid leg and plumage problems.
Handling should be collective and planned, minimizing frequent individual captures.
General information aimed at professional facilities and authorized centers. Not intended to promote private keeping of wildlife without proper training and permits.
Enclosures replicate lagoons with islands and gentle shores, allowing natural feeding and group resting behaviors.
Diet includes specific pellets and supplements that mimic the nutritional quality of their wild diet.
Veterinary procedures are done with planning, using temporary enclosures to reduce capture stress.
Their keeping is especially linked to educational programs about wetlands and water quality.
This information has an educational purpose and does not replace the advice of specialized professionals or consultation of current wildlife and animal welfare legislation.