Little Flamingos in South Africa Stop Breeding at Kamfers Dam Due to Severe Pollution

Little flamingo in Africa (Source: Reuters)

Kamfers Dam is located in the northern Kimberley, South Africa. The water area at the dam has become a major breeding ground for the lesser flamingo. The dam contains high concentrations of blue-green algae (Spirulina spp.) and diatoms (Cyclotella spp.), which are the main food source for the lesser flamingo. Approximately 20,000 lesser flamingos were once present at the dam, with numbers reaching as high as 50,000 at one point, representing a large proportion of the subregion's total population.

However, after years of pollution, Kamfers Dam – the only breeding site for lesser flamingos in South Africa – is now empty. The pink long-necked birds are in sharp decline, with just three breeding sites remaining in Africa.

Local authorities need more than $5.9 million to restore the damaged wastewater treatment system. The International Union for Conservation of Nature plans to classify the species as “vulnerable” due to habitat loss.

With their bright pink feathers and long legs, flamingos are famous not only for their appearance but also for their movements and lifestyle. This bird species originates from tropical wetlands, especially in the Americas and Africa. However, in Vietnam, we can also see this bird at some famous tourist destinations.