Why in NEWS

A large number of lesser flamingos have recently arrived at Chhaya pond in Porbandar, Gujarat. From here, they will migrate to the Great Rann of Kutch, along the India-Pakistan border, for breeding.

Key Terms and Concepts

Term	Explanation
Lesser Flamingo	Smallest species of flamingo, found in Africa, India, and parts of Pakistan.
IUCN: Near Threatened	Indicates the species faces risk of becoming endangered in the near future.
CITES Appendix II	Trade must be controlled to avoid utilization incompatible with survival.
WPA Schedule IV	Provides legal protection with less stringent penalties than Schedule I.

News in Simple Words

Thousands of lesser flamingos are gathering at Porbandar’s Chhaya pond before migrating to their breeding grounds in the Great Rann of Kutch. This event is important both ecologically and culturally, as the area is one of the only breeding sites for lesser flamingos in South Asia. The presence of these birds indicates a healthy wetland ecosystem.

Visual Aid: Flamingo Migration and Breeding Cycle

Arrival at Chhaya Pond  →        Rest & Feed         →       Migration to Great Rann of Kutch             →        Breeding Season     →       Returns post-breeding 
                                                                         
                                                                  

In a Nutshell

“Chhaya to Kutch, pink paths of survival”
Mnemonic: “L-I-C-W”
Lesser flamingo
IUCN: Near Threatened
CITES II
WPA IV

Prelims Questions

1. Which of the following species is not found in India?
   a) Greater Flamingo
   b) Andean Flamingo
   c) Lesser Flamingo
   d) None of the above
2. The pink colour of flamingos is mainly due to:
   a) Melanin pigments
   b) Iron content in blood
   c) Carotenoid pigments in food
   d) UV exposure
3. Consider the following statements:
   1. Lesser Flamingos are classified as Endangered by IUCN.
   2. They are protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
      Which of the statements is/are correct?
      a) 1 only
      b) 2 only
      c) Both 1 and 2
      d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answers Table

Qn	Answer	Explanation
1	b	Andean flamingos are native to South America and not found in India.
2	c	Carotenoids in algae/crustaceans are responsible for the pink coloration.
3	d	They are Near Threatened, not Endangered; listed in WPA Schedule IV, not I.