The alkaline soda lakes of Tanzania’s Rift Valley are home to two flamingo species. At times, tens or hundreds of thousands gather on a single lake, turning the shore pink.
Two species
| Lesser flamingo | Greater flamingo | |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Smaller, about 90 cm tall | Taller, up to 1.5 m |
| Colour | Deep pink, dark red bill | Paler, pink bill with black tip |
| Food | Blue-green algae | Small invertebrates and algae |
| Numbers | Far more numerous | Fewer |
Why they are pink
Flamingos get their colour from pigments called carotenoids in the algae and small creatures they eat. Chicks are born grey.
Where to see them
- Lake Natron: the world’s most important breeding site for lesser flamingos. Read about Lake Natron.
- Lake Manyara: often large flocks along the shore. Read about Lake Manyara.
- Ngorongoro Crater: on Lake Magadi on the crater floor.
- Momella Lakes in Arusha National Park.
- Empakaai Crater in the Ngorongoro Highlands.
- Lake Eyasi when water levels are right.
When to go
Flamingos move between lakes depending on water levels and food, so numbers change from month to month. Breeding at Lake Natron usually peaks between about August and December. Ask us about recent sightings before you travel.
Read about birds of Tanzania and birding in the north.
Frequently asked questions
Lake Natron, Lake Manyara, the Ngorongoro Crater, Momella Lakes, Empakaai Crater and Lake Eyasi.
They get their colour from pigments in the algae and small animals they eat.
Breeding usually peaks between about August and December, depending on water levels.
