The Greater Flamingo is the largest of the 6 species of flamingo. Males can reach a height of 153 cm (5 feet). Despite its height it is a relatively light bird with a weight of 2 – 4 kg (4.4 – 8.8 lb). Flamingos are easily recognized by their long necks and legs and large curved beaks.

The Greater Flamingo is native to large parts of Africa, the Indian subcontinent and Europe. They inhabit shallow saltwater flats and spend most of their time wading but will swim under the right conditions. Their diet consists of what they can strain from the water and mud, This species is omnivorous.

Birds become sexually mature at about 3 years but do not usually breed until 5 – 10 years. A single egg is laid in a nest constructed from mud. The young are white to grey and they get their pink colour after several years.