World Flamingo Day is celebrated every year on April 26. It was first announced in 2020 by the Flamingo Specialist Group to raise awareness about these unique birds and the wetlands they depend on.

Flamingos are known for their striking pink color, long legs, and graceful movements. Around the world, there are six different species:

• Greater Flamingo – not currently threatened.
• American Flamingo – not currently threatened.
• Chilean Flamingo – near threatened.
• Lesser Flamingo – near threatened.
• Andean Flamingo – vulnerable.
• James’s Flamingo – near threatened.

While some species are doing well, others are facing growing pressure due to environmental changes.

In Libya, only one species has been recorded: the Greater Flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus). It appears mainly as a winter visitor or during migration. These birds are often seen along coastal wetlands, and sometimes gather in large numbers in salt flats and shallow lakes.

Flamingos depand on wetlands for feeding and nesting. Unfortunately, these habitats are under threat. The main challenges flamingos face today include:

• Loss and damage of wetlands.
• Pollution.
• Illegal killing.
• Captivity.
• Climate change.

These issues don’t just affect flamingos—they impact entire ecosystems.

World Flamingo Day is a reminder that protecting wetlands is essential. By raising awareness and supporting conservation efforts, we can help ensure that flamingos continue to thrive for future generations.

Even small actions “like supporting environmental organizations or learning more about local wildlife” can make a difference.