Flamingos are the most distinct birds at Lisbon Zoo. Carmin-like and slender-looking, these waders come together in large groups and it is usual to observe them in colourful movements through space. They feed with their heads inverted, often submerged in the water, filtering the food with coverslips inside the beak.

In this new facility, which meets all the animals needs, we can observe different types of substrate such as grass and a mixture of clay and sand so that, in the nesting season, the birds can build their nests. There are also two water points, being one exclusively for feeding and another, deeper, so they can bathe in small groups. The vegetation was carefully selected, including plant species that will, in the future, form visual barriers resulting in shelter areas for the animals. The vegetation was also arranged according to the flock’s movement.

Flamingos are monogamous birds, which means the pair remain together their whole life. Their nests are build close to the water in have the shape of a cup to prevent that the variation of the water levels endanger the eggs or the chicks. Aware of the extreme importance of the water level fluctuation for this species, it it is possible to control the water level / flooding in the facility nesting area, simulating what happens in nature.

The American flamingo lives in the margins of saline lagoons, rivers and estuaries of Central America. Although the IUCN currently classifies its conservation status as "Least Concern", growing human disturbance and loss of habitat could compromise the future of these animals. It is up to places like Lisbon Zoo to warn of this situation in order to ensure that populations in their natural habitat remain healthy.

Visit Lisbon Zoo, get to know this fascinating species better and spread the word while contributing to this worldwide conservation project.