Flamingos

Flamingos
Phoenicopterus ruber

Gizilaghaj National Park

Flamingos are a bird species belonging to the flamingo family in the order Phoenicopteriformes of the class Aves (birds). They are found along the Caspian Sea coast and in large inland wetlands. They prefer shallow salty or brackish waters. They are mainly seen during migration and wintering periods (October–April), but in some years they also nest in certain lakes such as Mahmudchala, flooded areas around Hajigabul Lake, Shirvan National Park, and others (from late April to July).

Their height is about 130 cm, and their weight ranges from 2 to 4.5 kg. Their plumage is pink, while young individuals are white. When they spread their wings, a black stripe is visible on the lower part. Their neck and legs are long. Their beak is long and curves downward, and like ducks and geese it has tooth-like structures. The tip of the beak is black, while the rest is pink (white in juveniles). Their call resembles the sounds of geese and ducks.

They live in colonies. Pairs are usually formed for life.