FLAMINGOS AT BHANDUP; A SIGHT TO BEHOLD!!!

It is that time of the year when the wetland areas of Mumbai are beautified by the arrival of several species of colourful birds, the most beautiful and attractive among them being the pink-feathered Flamingos. With the beginning of November, the Flamingos start arriving in the city in huge numbers. This year, the mangroves at Bhandup pumping station wetlands are buzzing with innumerable Flamingos and are a major attraction for tourists.

In Mumbai, the bays at Thane, Airoli, Sewri and Bhandup are the home for several migratory birds. According to environmentalists, earlier, the migratory birds would land at Sewri jetty. But, alas, ever since Sewri has been hugely encroached by expanding slums, the Flamingos have abandoned Sewri creek and have moved to the silent and serene Bhandup mangroves.

It may be noted that, each year, the Flamingos travel thousands of kilometres and come to Mumbai from Kutch (Gujarat).  They get peaceful accommodation in Bhandup’s pumping bay, which is free from industrial pollution.

Interestingly, the arrival of these Flamingos increases tourist attraction as many people rush to get a glimpse of these gorgeous birds. Besides sighting these birds, tourists also enjoy the pleasure of travelling in a boat to reach the right spot inside the bay. Animal activist Sunil Kunju told Home Times, “Tourists can make merry as the beautiful Flamingos will remain in Bhandup creek for six months and this is good news for all bird lovers.”

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