Thousands of flamingos flock to Navi Mumbai lake, drawing crowds

Navi Mumbai: Thousands of flamingos have descended on a lake in Navi Mumbai, turning the wetlands into a sea of pink and drawing crowds of birdwatchers, photographers, and security personnel.

Visuals shared by PTI showed large gatherings near the waterbody as onlookers observed the migratory birds. Personnel in camouflage uniforms were seen monitoring the area as locals and media captured the spectacle.

Every year, greater and lesser flamingos migrate to the wetlands of Mumbai and Navi Mumbai between November and May, feeding on algae and crustaceans in the shallow creeks and lakes. The Thane Creek Flamingo Sanctuary and nearby waterbodies serve as key wintering grounds along the Central Asian Flyway.

Wildlife officials said the congregation this season appears particularly large, likely due to favorable water levels and food availability. They have urged visitors to maintain distance and avoid disturbing the birds.

Environmental groups have long flagged the Navi Mumbai wetlands as critical habitats facing pressure from urban development. Conservationists say the annual flamingo arrival underscores the ecological importance of preserving these areas.