The greater flamingo is one of the larger species.
Six species of flamingo inhabit some of the planet's most severe environments. They are very social creatures, living in large groups known as colonies. Flamingos are well known for their vibrant colors and long legs. The species genus name for all flamingos is Phoeniconaias, which is Latin for crimson water nymph.
Greater Flamingo
Greater flamingos live in coastal regions of Africa and in areas of the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia. They are pink, which scientists believe is due to the small crustaceans they eat. Adult birds can grow up to 50 inches in height and weigh up to almost 9 pounds. Flamingos do not attain their striking pink color until they are 2 years old.
Caribbean Flamingo
Caribbean flamingos are found around saltwater lakes in the Caribbean, Central America and the Galapagos Islands. They are sometimes classed as a subspecies of the greater flamingo, but can grow slightly bigger. Adults reach up to 55 inches and weigh around 9 pounds. In the wild, these flamingos can live between 20 to 30 years.
Lesser Flamingo
Lesser flamingos thrive in coastal areas of east, south and west Africa as well as Pakistan. They are pink in color, generally more so than greater flamingos. As their name would suggest, they are one of the smaller species of flamingo. They grow to around 36 inches tall and weigh up to 4.5 pounds. The species has a relatively long lifespan, with some birds living up to 50 years.
Chilean Flamingo
Chilean flamingos frequent saltwater lakes and lagoons in Central America. They are a large species, with adults growing up to 60 inches in height and weighing 13 pounds. Unlike other species of flamingo they are not pink all over and have yellow legs. The Chilean flamingo is listed as threatened on the endangered species list due, in part, to shrinking habitat.
Andean Flamingo
Andean flamingos live near the saltwater lagoons in the Andes Mountain range. Mainly pink, with the exception of an area near the tail feathers, they have yellow feet. The birds can grow up to 55 inches tall and weigh around 9 pounds. Andean flamingos can live more than 40 years in the wild; they are on the vulnerable list of endangered species.
Puna Flamingo
Puna flamingos, also found in saltwater lagoons in the Andes Mountains, are closely related to Andean flamingos. Mostly pink, theses birds have orange legs and dark red rings around its eyes. Puna flamingos can grow up to 36 inches tall and weigh around 4.5 pounds. The species is classified as near threatened, due to a gradual decline in numbers yearly.
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