Around two dozen flamingos was observed by nature lovers to have remained behind at the DPS pond in Nerul last week after the main flock of migratory birds left the wetlands ahead of the monsoon.
These flamingos, believed to be either injured or too weak to undertake the return journey to Kutch, have been observed huddled together in the north-eastern corner of the pond.
Local birdwatchers and residents who frequent the site have noticed this particular group not shifting location even during tidal changes. " It is an unusual behaviour compared to the active foraging of healthy birds. Even earlier, I used to see a group of weak and injured flamingos gathered in that corner. They didn’t move with the tides like the others,” noted nature photographer Satish Dabral.
The stranded flamingos is now appeared to have recovered physically, concerns remain about their ability to fly back safely, especially with the onset of strong monsoon winds. It is common for old, sick, or juvenile birds to be left behind during migration, say experts.
"Yes, it’s usually the old, sick and juveniles who stay back not strong enough for the long journey," commented environmentalist Jyoti Nadkarni.
Responding to the situation, another local added, “Sad they can’t get back to Kutch. Hope they will survive here with the feed available. But this happens in nature some survive, some stay behind.”
Experts observed that flamingos typically begin their return migration before the monsoon, timing their departure based on changing water levels. With the rains now underway, the survival of the remaining birds will depend largely on food availability and the safety of their wetland habitat. Conservationists have called for monitoring of their condition and protection of the area to ensure these vulnerable birds are not further stressed or disturbed.
