Rare Lesser Flamingo Spotted in Udupi for the First Time

Mangalore Today News Network

Udupi, Aug 17, 2025: In a rare sighting, a Lesser Flamingo—usually found in sub-Saharan Africa and western India—was spotted for the first time in Udupi on Friday morning.

The lone bird was noticed near the Malpe estuary by birder Bhavani Rammohan, who confirmed the identification with Manipal Birders’ Club member Mohith Shenoy. The bird was sighted again on Saturday, drawing excitement among the birding community.

“What makes it remarkable is the location—a small pond near an ice factory, not a typical habitat for flamingos,” Shenoy said.

The Lesser Flamingo, largely restricted to Gujarat’s Little Rann of Kutch, is a rare visitor to peninsular India. Its presence in Udupi follows a Greater Flamingo sighting in Bengaluru earlier this month, sparking curiosity over unusual bird movements this season.

With winter birding season beginning and several migratory waders already along the coast, birders are hopeful the flamingo will linger for a few more days.