Lesser Flamingos:
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) 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 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.
- There are 6 species of flamingos found globally in tropical and subtropical regions, with only 2 found in India (Greater & Lesser Flamingo).
