Panaji: A flock of 15 greater flamingos has turned the Santa Cruz wetlands into an unexpected birdwatching hotspot, drawing photographers and nature enthusiasts from across Goa.The flock comprising three adults and 12 juveniles were first spotted on Sunday in the wetlands near the bridge connecting Santa Cruz and Taleigao. For many birdwatchers, the sighting is remarkable not only because of the unusually large number of birds but also because flamingos are rarely seen in Goa at this time of year.Wildlife photographer Ankush Sahani, who documented the flock, said this is the first time such a large group of Greater Flamingos has been recorded at the Santa Cruz wetlands.“The last recorded sighting of greater flamingos in Goa was in 2024, when a few birds were seen flying over Chorao Island and captured on video. Previous sightings in the state typically involve only two to five birds. This time, we have around 15,” he told TOI.Although flamingos have occasionally been recorded in larger wetland habitats in South Goa, including Maina, Curtorim, and nearby areas, these sightings usually occur during the winter migration season between Dec and Jan. Experts believe the birds generally pass over Goa, or briefly stop after straying off course, before continuing their journey.Their appearance during the peak monsoon has surprised even seasoned birdwatchers.“The heavy monsoon rainfall and strong winds may have caused the birds to stray from their usual migration route before making a temporary stop in Goa,” said Omkar Dharwadkar, president of the Goa Bird Conservation Network.He said the flock may have dispersed from Gujarat or Maharashtra after being diverted by strong monsoon winds.“They may have landed here temporarily and could continue their journey in a few days. They are unlikely to remain here throughout the monsoon,” Dharwadkar said.Since arriving, the flamingos have been seen feeding in the shallow waters of the Santa Cruz wetlands, an important habitat that supports several resident and migratory bird species.Their presence has also drawn attention to the fragile condition of the wetland. “The wetland is an important bird habitat, but it is heavily littered. People dump waste and religious offerings there, which has made parts of the wetland very dirty,” a resident of Merces said.Goa forest department took to social media to acknowledge the presence of the birds and stated that it indicates the health of Central Asian flyways and Goa’s wetlands. “This reminds us to conserve wetlands and to maintain safe distance from flocks and feeding grounds to minimize disturbance,” it stated.For now, birdwatchers are making twice-daily visits to the wetlands, hoping to catch a glimpse of the rare visitors before they take flight once again, leaving behind a reminder of both the ecological value and the vulnerability of one of Goa’s urban wetlands.
