Regional estimates include 15,000-25,000 individuals in West Africa, 1,500,000 to 2,500,000 in East Africa, 55,000 to 65,000 in South Africa and Madagascar, and 650,000 in South Asia. Population The global population has been estimated at 2,220,000 to 3,240,000 individuals. Habitat The species breeds on large undisturbed alkaline and saline lakes, salt pans or coastal lagoons, usually far out from the shore, after seasonal rains have provided the flooding necessary to isolate remote breeding sites from terrestrial predators and the soft muddy material for nest building. However, small populations exist in western Africa, Madagascar, Yemen, Pakistan, and India. Incubation 28 days Clutch Size Usually 1 large egg Fledging Duration 70 to 75 days Sexual Maturity Approximately 6 years Life Span In the wild, up to 50 years Range These birds are found primarily in eastern and southern Africa. To a lesser extent, the species will also take small aquatic invertebrates such as rotifers. Size Approximately 80 to 90 cm (31 to 36 in.) long females tend to be smaller than males Weight Approximately 1.5 to 2 kg (3 to 4.5 lbs.) Diet This species has a highly specialized diet consisting almost entirely of microscopic blue-green algae and benthic diatoms found only in alkaline lakes, salt pans and saline lagoons and estuaries. The lesser flamingo is one of the smallest and the brightest of the flamingos. Most flamingos, including this species, have pale pink plumage, legs, and bills. Scientific Classification Common Name lesser flamingo Kingdom Animalia Phylum Chordata Class Aves Order Ciconiiformes Family Phoenicopteridae Genus Species Phoenicopterus (crimson winged) minor (smaller)įast Facts Description The lesser flamingo is a tall, large-bodied bird with a long neck and small head.
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