The Greater Flamingo is the most widespread of all flamingos. It can be found in Africa, southern Asia and southern Europe. The oldest known Greater Flamingo in Adelaide Zoo in Australia is thought to be at least 75 years old.
These large pink birds live and feed in large groups called flocks or colonies. This protects individual birds from predators while their heads are in the mud as they search for food. The shrimp-like crustaceans that they eat are responsible for their pink plumage. Birds in captivity get paler unless they get supplemental food.
Flamingos in the News
Because of their large size and flashy colors, flamingos capture the imagination of bird lovers and wildlife observers. And because some of the species in this family are facing threats to their ... more