The vast salt desert known as the Rann of Kutch has also changed to a magnificent pink spectacle this year, where an estimated 300,000 flamingos for their yearly winter migration have come in across the continents. According to wildlife officials, researchers and bird enthusiasts, this may also be one of the largest flamingo congregations witnessed in the region in the past years.
Each winter, thousands of smaller and bigger flamingos migrate to the Rann of Kutch as far away as Africa, the Middle East and Central Asia. However, the influx this year has shocked the professionals. The marshlands near Kuda and the traditional breeding area commonly known as Flamingo City are full of the graceful birds, which form a spectacular view on the other white and barren salt flats.
Forest officials attribute the increase in the number to favourable ecological conditions this season. Sufficient water supply of post-monsoon, a lot of algae and brine shrimp, which are the major food source of flamingos and little human interference have provided the birds with a perfect environment for feeding and breeding. Also, the forest department has developed C-shaped mud nesting platforms, which have been a significant factor as far as raising the rate of chick survival and enticing more birds to settle.
According to the researchers, there are many more and fewer flamingos this year, and thousands of chicks have been seen among adult birds. This is a good showing in Kutch, considering that the lesser flamingo, a near-threatened bird, has had breeding difficulties in certain areas.
The region has seen a flock of local communities, bird-watchers and tourists to view the natural spectacle. The wetlands can be seen as huge pink carpets that cover many miles, which form one of the most famous wildlife sceneries in India.
According to environmentalists, the Rann of Kutch is an ecologically significant place as evidenced by the flourishing flamingo population. Flamingos are indicator species that indicate the well-being of the wetland habitat. Their turnout in record numbers is an indication that the delicate environment in the region is recovering well this year.
Meanwhile, specialists also note that the habitat is at risk of changes in climate, water management, and industrial processes. They are pushing the government to keep on conserving so that the area is a haven for migratory birds.
At least, the coming of almost 3 lakh flamingos has given Gujarat a new focus and joy over the natural heritage and made the Rann of Kutch a pink heaven.
