Gurgaon sees a large number of Greater Flamingos, especially during the winter months. I guess the area lies on an important migration route for Flamingos. It is, however, a great joy to spot these rather colourful birds in spite of the shrinking wetlands. Gurgaon is on the way to losing most of its wetlands within a few years. The Basai wetland has disappeared; the Sultanpur National Park is gasping for survival because of a lack of fresh water reserves. One should, therefore, enjoy the wildlife while one can!
Changing climate patterns, shrinking biodiversity hotspots that alter food patterns, human development, and competition for resources with other species, especially domesticated cattle, have led many migratory birds to leave Gurgaon as their winter destination. High-tension wires, camera-equipped towers, and noisy visitors have made Sultanpur National Park less of a protected area and more of a tourist spot where families can spend time.
Flamingos are a welcome sight for all those who can find time to spot them. The first time I spotted Greater Flamingos in Gurgaon was when the Basai Wetland existed. Dozens of Greater Flamingos used to visit the Basai wetland. These days, migratory birds are moving away from Gurgaon to the outskirts of the town. Unfortunately, developmental activities have started even in the outskirts, and demand for land for townships has sounded the death knell for all those wetlands that once hosted migratory birds from all over the world.
The equipment used for the above shots included a Canon R7 Body and a Canon 600 mm F11 zoom lens. The lens, although light in weight, has its downside as it hungers for a lot of light. I was, however much satisfied with the images taken.
