Phoenicopterus chilensis
The Chilean Flamingo (Phoenicopterus chilensis) is a striking, large wading bird, typically measuring 110-130 cm (43-51 in) in height with a wingspan of 140-165 cm (55-65 in). Its plumage is predominantly pale pink to whitish-pink, often brighter on the wings which reveal brilliant carmine-red coverts and black flight feathers in flight. A key field mark distinguishing it from other flamingo species is its unique grayish-green legs with distinct pink or reddish "knees" (hock joints) and feet....
Found in a variety of saline and brackish lakes, lagoons, estuaries, and coastal wetlands, primarily in high-altitude Andean environments but also at sea level.
Primarily micro-organisms, including diatoms, algae, and cyanobacteria, along with small aquatic invertebrates like crustaceans and insect larvae, all consumed through filter-feeding.
Chilean Flamingos are highly social birds, spending most of their time in large flocks that can number in the thousands, roosting communally on open water or shorelines. Their distinctive foraging strategy involves wading into shallow water, holding their large, specialized bill upside down to fi...
The Chilean Flamingo's primary range extends across South America, breeding predominantly in high-altitude Andean lagoons and saline lakes of central Chile, Argentina, Bolivia, Peru, and southern Ecuador, at elevations reaching over 4,500 meters (14,700 ft). During the non-breeding season, these ...
Near Threatened
- The vibrant pink color of Chilean Flamingos comes entirely from beta-carotene pigments found in their diet, especially from brine shrimp and algae; without these, they would be pale or white. - Unlike most birds, flamingos feed with their head upside down, using their large, specialized bill to...