Lake Nakuru in Kenya is very famous for the Flamingos, both the lesser and the greater species. The lesser flamingo may be the most numerous species of flamingo. This species feeds primarily on Spirulina, algae which grow only in very alkaline lakes and that’s the reason we see them in large numbers at Lake Nakuru which is rich in algae. Although blue-green in colour, the algae contain the photosynthetic pigments that give the birds their pink colour.
Despite being the most numerous species of flamingo, it is classified as near threatened due to its declining population and the low number of breeding sites, some of which are threatened by human activities. The population in the two major East African lakes, Nakuru and Bogoria, have been adversely affected in recent years by suspected heavy metal poisoning due to the industries in the surrounding area. And unfortunately, the primary African breeding area in Lake Natron, in Tanzania is currently under threat by a proposed soda ash plant by Tata Chemicals. Wildlife conservationists are continuously striving hard to save these endangered species.
Hoping that we don’t harm nature and wildlife anymore and we let the earth breathe well!!!
Comments
Such magnificent birds….
Author
Yeah, they are. One can spend hours just watching them, their behaviour, their fights and antics!!! I have spent a whole day from sunrise to sunset with them on many occasions and have made some of the best pics too!!!