The Graceful Wanderers: Flamingos and Their Deep Connection to Rajasthan

With their iconic pink plumage and elegant postures, flamingos captivate bird lovers and conservationists alike. These migratory birds, found across continents, are as fascinating in their habits as they are breathtaking in flight. While they are often associated with Africa or the Americas, flamingos have a special connection to India, particularly Rajasthan, which serves as one of their migratory destinations.

Globally, there are six species of flamingos, with an estimated population of 2.5 to 3.5 million individuals, according to BirdLife International. The Greater Flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus) and the Lesser Flamingo (Phoenicopterus minor) are commonly found in India. Lesser Flamingos, known for their deeper pink hue, are classified as “Near Threatened” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), with an estimated population of about 2 million worldwide.

Flamingos and Rajasthan: A Seasonal Spectacle

Rajasthan, with its arid landscapes and saline waterbodies, becomes a seasonal haven for flamingos during their migratory journey. The Sambhar Salt Lake, India’s largest inland saline lake, is a hotspot for flamingos, attracting thousands every winter. These birds travel thousands of kilometers from their breeding grounds, primarily in Gujarat’s Rann of Kutch and parts of Central Asia, to forage in the nutrient-rich waters of Rajasthan’s lakes.

“Flamingos are nature’s storytellers, traveling vast distances and thriving in extreme habitats. Watching them at Sambhar is like witnessing a dance of survival and beauty,” says Dr. Harsh Vardhan, a renowned ornithologist and birdwatcher based in Jaipur. “For birdwatchers, flamingos are not just birds—they’re symbols of resilience and adaptability,” says Aparajita Datta, a conservationist and avid birder. “Their arrival in Rajasthan is a reminder of the delicate balance between nature and human activity.”

Their preference for Rajasthan’s saline lakes lies in the abundance of algae, small crustaceans, and plankton—key components of their diet that also give their feathers their striking pink coloration. Besides Sambhar, other significant flamingo habitats in Rajasthan include the Tal Chhapar Sanctuary and Keoladeo National Park, the latter being a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Conservation Concerns

While the sight of flamingos flocking in Rajasthan’s wetlands is mesmerizing, conservationists warn of growing threats to their habitats. Industrial activities, salt mining, and pollution have significantly impacted the Sambhar Salt Lake ecosystem, causing disturbances in flamingo nesting and feeding patterns. The infamous 2019 mass mortality of over 18,000 birds at Sambhar, including flamingos, highlighted the urgent need for habitat protection.

According to a 2021 study by the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS), Rajasthan’s wetlands face a shrinking water table, putting the region’s migratory bird population, including flamingos, at risk.

Efforts are underway to protect flamingo habitats in Rajasthan. Local communities and conservation groups are advocating for stricter regulations on industrial activities near sensitive wetlands. Moreover, promoting eco-tourism in regions like Sambhar could bring much-needed attention to the preservation of these habitats.

Flamingos are more than migratory visitors—they’re ambassadors of biodiversity, bridging continents and ecosystems. As Rajasthan continues to play host to these graceful wanderers, the state’s role in their survival becomes increasingly critical. For those who have witnessed their flight across the shimmering Sambhar waters, the message is clear: protecting flamingos means preserving a part of the natural world that connects us all.