Flamingos have once again graced the coastal regions of Thoothukudi (Tuticorin) in Tamil Nadu, drawn by the region’s brackish water bodies and expansive salt pans that create an ideal habitat for these migratory birds.
Known for their distinctive pink plumage, the flamingos have arrived to feed and breed, taking advantage of the area's rich natural resources.
Between October and March, Thoothukudi’s salt pans transform into a prime feeding ground for greater flamingos, which migrate from regions such as Africa, southern Asia, the Middle East, and southern Europe.
The abundance of food sources, including crabs, shrimp, insects, worms, and tubers, makes the area particularly attractive to these birds.
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The Alayathi Forest, near Tuticorin Beach Road, is a well-known nesting site, providing a secure space for the birds to lay their eggs and rear their young.
The region’s favourable climate and tranquil environment further enhance its appeal, offering optimal breeding conditions. The salt pans along the East Coast Road are particularly popular among flamingos, where they can be spotted in large numbers wading through shallow waters.
Their striking features — long sinuous necks, slender pink legs, and white bodies adorned with scarlet and black hues — add to the breathtaking spectacle.
Thoothukudi is not the only Indian destination witnessing this natural marvel. Earlier this month, Maharashtra’s Navi Mumbai was also transformed into a vibrant pink wonderland as thousands of flamingos flocked to the city.
The Thane Creek Flamingo Sanctuary, an important ecological zone, provides a haven for these birds, with its mangrove forests, mudflats, and salt pans offering a perfect refuge.
Flamingos’ migratory patterns are influenced by environmental factors such as food availability and temperature fluctuations.
Thoothukudi remains a key stopover in this journey, reinforcing its status as a vital sanctuary for these magnificent birds.
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