Flamingos in the flood.
The dreadful weather that the UK is experiencing at the moment has certainly increased the "wet" part of Slimbridge Wetland Centre. Today's venture into the world of the flamingo proved a very damp and flooded affair, with birds coming to terms with the extent to which the water areas of their enclosures had suddenly grown. But do no panic, all of the birds are fine and well, and the hard-working aviculturists are ensuring that the flamingos are protected from the worst of the inclement weather. The more fragile species are now being shut away at night in the warmth of their houses, and they are also being fed inside to ensure that the birds get as much access to their nutritious flamingo pellet as possible. So it is now an early night for the old James' flamingo, as well as for the lessers and Caribbeans. The Chileans and Andeans, hardy birds from the highlands of South America, do not mind colder weather, but still like to have access to their sheltered indoor housing when it becomes very nasty outside.
Indeed, despite parts of their enclosures being more sodden than normal, or having been turned completely into new ponds, the birds were rather unconcerned and as the photos below demonstrate, were actively enjoying the opportunity to grub around in places that on a normal day would be dry land. It's probably far too anthropomorphic to say that flamingos can enjoy themselves, but I like to think they were!
The Andean flamingos find their favourite area to stand and preen has been converted into their own private paddling pool. Much opportunity for foot-stamping and filtering of the mud to keep even the most energetic flamingo happy! (first photo).
The young Caribbean and Chilean flamingos, currently residing in the enclosure at the end of "Swan Lake" found their gravel-covered loafing island to be incorporated into their pond. Yet again, this provided ample opportunities for new areas to forage in and plenty of silt was stirred up by active flamingo beaks. (second photo).
And the lovely new muddy mess of the old nesting island was also being enjoyed by young and old alike! A lovely juxtaposition of old Mr James and one of the new arrivals from this year (a Caribbean chick) taking full advantage of a new, albeit, temporary playground (see below)! (third photo).
And finally, a photo of one of the lesser flamingos, swimming in an area that is normally not so deep; again taking the time to have a muck-about and an up-end in an enclosure that has suddenly become more aquatic. Natural behaviour in action!
