Lesser Flamingo Migration in Gujarat: Breeding in Rann of Kutch | Flamingos in India

Every year, an amazing natural phenomenon takes place in the western Indian state of Gujarat – the migration of the Lesser Flamingo. Thousands of these beautiful pink birds have recently arrived at Chhaya Talab in Porbandar, beginning their journey to the Great Rann of Kutch, one of the most important flamingo breeding sites in Asia.

This annual event is not just for bird watchers – it is also an important indicator of the health of India’s wetlands and the country’s commitment to wildlife conservation.

Lesser Flamingo: India’s Smallest Flamingo Species

The Lesser Flamingo (Phoeniconaias minor) is the smallest of the six flamingo species found worldwide. Despite its size, it is one of the most populous flamingo species, known for forming huge flocks that can be seen from miles away.

In India, these birds are mainly found in brackish wetlands, saltpans, and coastal water bodies. They prefer nutrient-rich eutrophic, shallow water bodies that support algae, their main food source.

These flamingos are not only beautiful to look at but also protected. They are currently listed as “near threatened” on the IUCN Red List, included in Appendix II of CITES, and protected in India under Schedule IV of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.

Why Gujarat is a paradise for flamingos

Gujarat has emerged as an important state in India to support migratory birds, especially flamingos. The state’s extensive wetlands, salt ponds, and seasonal water bodies make ideal feeding and breeding grounds.

Major Flamingo Hotspots in Gujarat:

• Chaya Talab, Porbandar – a major resting and feeding spot for visiting migratory flamingos.
• Great Rann of Kutch – India’s only regular breeding ground for lesser flamingos and one of the most important flamingo breeding areas in the world.
• The Rann of Kutch turns into a pink paradise during the breeding season, where thousands of Lesser Flamingos nest and raise their young in this remote salt desert.

How many species of flamingos are there?

There are six recognised flamingo species worldwide, but only two are found in India:

• Greater Flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus) – larger and lighter in colour.
• Lesser Flamingo (Phoeniconaias minor) – smaller, darker pink, and more numerous in India.
• The other four global species are:
• Chilean Flamingo
• American/Caribbean Flamingo
• Andean Flamingo
• James or Puna Flamingo

Flamingos are social birds and are rarely seen alone. They prefer to live and move around in large flocks, especially during migration and breeding season.

What do Lesser Flamingos eat?

Flamingos are filter feeders. Their specialised beaks are perfectly adapted for scooping and filtering food from water bodies. Lesser Flamingos eat mainly:

• Blue-green algae
• Small molluscs
• Crustaceans

Their diet is rich in carotenoid pigments, which give them their striking pink, orange or red colour. Without this diet, flamingos would appear white or pale grey.

Significance of Lesser Flamingo Migration

The migration of flamingos is more than just a seasonal movement. It reflects:

• Wetland health: The presence of flamingos indicates a balanced, nutrient-rich aquatic ecosystem.
• Biodiversity: Flamingos share their habitat with hundreds of other migratory and native bird species.
• Ecotourism potential: Gujarat’s flamingo-rich wetlands attract bird watchers, photographers and researchers from across the world, boosting the local economy.

Conservation Challenges and Efforts

Despite its beauty and ecological importance, the Lesser Flamingo faces several threats:

• Wetland destruction due to urban expansion and industrial activity
• Pollution from untreated sewage and chemical discharges
• Salt mining and land-use change in breeding areas
• Climate change affects water levels and nesting conditions

In response, the Gujarat government and various environmental organizations have initiated conservation programs such as:

• Wetland restoration
• Community education campaigns
• The “Flamingo City” project near Kutch
• Strengthening protection through Ramsar site designations

Conclusion: A call to save India’s pink migrants

The migration of the Lesser Flamingo each year to Gujarat is a natural marvel that highlights the importance of migratory bird conservation in India. From Chhaya Talab to the Rann of Kutch, these pink wonders remind us that India’s wetlands are important ecosystems that must be protected.

As threats to these habitats grow, so must our efforts to ensure that future generations continue to marvel at the vibrant, coordinated dance of the flamingos against the setting sun in Gujarat.