Phoenicopteridae

Phoenicopteridae is a family of wading birds known as flamingos, comprising six living species in three genera. They are large waders with long legs and a down-curved bill for filter feeding. Their plumage ranges from pink to crimson, derived from carotenoids in their diet of algae and crustaceans. Juveniles are gray or dull and gain full coloration as they mature.

The family includes three genera: Phoenicopterus, Phoeniconaias, and Phoenicoparrus. Genus Phoenicopterus includes the Greater Flamingo (P. roseus), American Flamingo (P. ruber), and Chilean Flamingo (P. chilensis). Genus Phoeniconaias includes the Lesser Flamingo (P. minor). Genus Phoenicoparrus includes the Andean Flamingo (P. andinus) and James’s Flamingo (P. jamesi).

Flamingos inhabit saline and alkaline wetlands across Africa, the Americas, Europe, and parts of Asia, favoring shallow waters rich in invertebrates.

Flamingos are highly gregarious, forming colonies that can number in the thousands. They perform elaborate courtship displays to attract mates. Nests are mud mounds with a single egg per breeding attempt. Both parents incubate the egg for several weeks; the chick remains dependent for weeks after hatching.

Population trends differ by species and region. Habitat loss, water extraction, pollution, and disturbance threaten some populations, while others remain locally common. Protected areas and water management have aided several populations.