Decades later, pink flamingoes are back at Sirpur lake

INDORE: Sighting of the long-legged pink greater flamingos at Sirpur Lake has given bird enthusiasts a reason to smile. The species are sighted first time in several decades, claimed birdwatchers.


Much before the start of the season of migratory birds, the glance of these long necked birds, the largest species of the flamingo family, has thrilled birdwatchers.

These species usually spend winters in India and Africa.

The ideal season for migratory birds starts from November and extends until February.

Birdwatchers have claimed to see eight greater flamingoes including two young birds at Sirpur Lake and the first sighting was reported early this week.

The Nature Volunteers’ co founder Bhalu Mondhe said, “This is the first time in decades that these species have migrated to Sirpur Lake. It was a delight to see these birds, the most widespread species of the flamingo family that is mostly found in Mumbai and Gujarat .” Mondhe said, these birds might have migrated to Indore in search of a new natural habitat.

At present, there are 150 species of migratory and endangered birds at Sirpur Lake and with the new sightings the count has gone up to 158.

Greater flamingoes are found in Africa, Indian subcontinent , Middle East and southern Europe. “These birds can fly long distances and shallow water and natural habitat at Sirpur Lake must have prompted these at Indore,” said Mondhe.

Mondhe said that around two decades ago, the lake was extremely polluted and encroached but they’ve rejuvenated the lake with the help of district administration, locals and volunteers. Sirpur Lake is spread over 800 acre and is home to many avian species of migratory birds from Syberia, Nepal and several other countries.