Overview
- Viral videos show vast flocks at the wetlands behind the NRI Complex in Nerul, drawing birdwatchers, photographers and curious residents.
- Greater and lesser flamingos reach Mumbai’s creeks along the Central Asian Flyway from regions that include Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Israel and Gujarat’s salt marshes.
- Observers report a later arrival this season with birds lingering into April and May, which experts link to prolonged water retention in Gujarat and shifting weather patterns.
- The birds feed in shallow mudflats on algae and brine shrimp rich in carotenoids, the pigments that turn their feathers pink after weeks of feeding.
- Popular viewing points include Palm Beach Road wetlands, Karave Flamingo Point, Belapur Creek and the Thane Creek Flamingo Sanctuary, which spans about 1,690 hectares and runs regulated boat safaris.