by InTrieste
Around 100 greater flamingos have returned to the Valle Cavanata Nature Reserve in recent days, once again gathering in the shallow wetlands near Grado.
The birds can be seen resting and feeding from the cycling path near the reserve’s visitor center, where the protected lagoon provides an important habitat for migratory and resident waterbirds.
Greater flamingos (Phoenicopterus roseus) are known for their distinctive pink plumage, which develops gradually as they consume carotenoid-rich organisms such as algae and small aquatic invertebrates. Young flamingos are born with gray-brown feathers that turn pink as they mature.
Visitors wishing to observe the birds more closely can borrow binoculars free of charge at the reserve’s visitor center, which is currently open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., except Thursdays.
