Navi Mumbai’s Annual Flamingo Festival Begins
Navi Mumbai is once again playing host to its spectacular annual influx of migratory birds. A recent video from ANI showcased thousands of flamingos and seagulls gracing the shores of Karave village, a picturesque inlet of the Arabian Sea. This winter spectacle, a tradition faithfully observed for many years, paints the coastline a vibrant pink from November through the spring and summer months.
Birdwatchers eagerly anticipate this seasonal event, drawn to the sight of flamingos and seagulls that journey from across vast distances. These avian visitors originate from as far as Kutch in Gujarat and Sambhar Lake in Rajasthan, with some believed to travel even further from the Middle East, Iraq, and Africa. The resulting influx of tourists contributes significantly to the region’s economy, eager to witness the dazzling display of pink plumage. While typically arriving in November, warmer-than-usual weather this year appears to have slightly delayed their arrival.
An ANI video posted on X captured the breathtaking scene: flamingos and seagulls gracefully dancing across a wetland near a local water body. The caption aptly described the event: “A large number of migratory flamingos, seagulls and other birds have arrived at the creek in Karave village in Navi Mumbai.”
Interestingly, while flamingos are generally considered non-migratory, they may relocate due to environmental changes or fluctuations in water levels at their breeding grounds. The attraction to Navi Mumbai’s waters, wetlands, and swamps stems from their abundant supply of blue-green algae, a key component of the flamingos’ diet.
To fully appreciate this “flamingo season,” several dedicated spots in Navi Mumbai offer prime viewing opportunities. January and February are considered ideal for optimal viewing experiences. A highly recommended destination is the Thane Creek Flamingo Sanctuary, where visitors can embark on a boat safari starting from the Coastal Marine Biodiversity Centre in Airoli, covering a route of almost ten kilometers. Other excellent locations for birdwatching include the Sewri Mangrove Park, Tawale Wetlands in Nerul, Bhandup Pumping Station, Mahul Creek, and TS Chanakya Birding Point.