Phoenicopterus roseus
The pink flamingo is one of the most exotic occurrences in Romania's avifauna. Although in the past it was considered a rare or accidental species, in recent years its presence in the Danube Delta and in the Razim-Sinoe complex has become constant, with flocks sometimes numbering hundreds of specimens.
An unmistakable bird thanks to its extremely long pink legs, long flexible neck and white-pink plumage. The bill has a unique shape, bent downward and specially adapted for filter feeding. In flight, the wings reveal a strong contrast between the bright pink coverts and the black flight feathers.
Prefers shallow, brackish or saline lagoons where food is abundant. In Romania, the best places to observe them are the lakes in the southern Delta and the Sacalin lagoon area.
Feeds by filtering water and mud with its specialised bill, which it holds upside down. The pink colour of the plumage comes from carotenoid pigments extracted from small crustaceans (such as Artemia salina). Highly sociable but very sensitive to human disturbance.
Breeds in large colonies, building cone-shaped mud nests. In the Delta, recent breeding attempts are monitored by researchers to ensure the tranquillity needed for any colonies trying to establish permanently.
Global status is LC. In Romania, the species is monitored closely by researchers to ensure the tranquillity needed for any colonies attempting to establish for breeding.