Thousands of flamingos have arrived at Thane Creek Flamingo Sanctuary in Navi Mumbai, marking their annual migration. A recent video shared on social media by the Mumbai Mangrove Conservation Unit captured Greater and Lesser flamingos soaring over the creek, creating a striking pink spectacle. The sanctuary, a designated Ramsar site, serves as a crucial wintering ground for these birds, offering food and a safe habitat.
Located between the Vashi and Airoli bridges, the Thane Creek Flamingo Sanctuary (TCFS) extends from Vashi to Bhandup and is home to around 200 bird species. Every year, flamingos migrate here from Gujarat, Rajasthan, Iran, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Israel. The arrival of these birds signals the start of the migratory season, drawing birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts to the area.
The sanctuary plays a vital role in Mumbai’s ecosystem, with its mangroves and mudflats supporting a diverse range of wildlife. Conservation efforts continue to protect this habitat, ensuring the survival of the flamingos and other species dependent on the wetlands. The return of flamingos to Thane Creek highlights the importance of preserving such ecological sites and promotes sustainable tourism in the region.
In a bid to support these efforts, Amazon has pledged USD1.2 million towards the restoration of mangroves and mudflats in the region. The initiative, in collaboration with Hasten Regeneration, aims to clean up the polluted banks of Thane Creek and restore critical habitats for flamingos and other wildlife.
The return of flamingos to Thane Creek highlights the importance of preserving such ecological sites and promotes sustainable tourism in the region.
