Fauna
Bird

Andean Flamingo

Phoenicoparrus andinus

Also known as Flamenco Andino, Parina Grande

Andean flamingos thrive in the extreme, high-altitude salt flats of the South American Andes. Specialized bill lamellae allow them to filter fine diatoms and micro-algae from shallow saline lagoons. Their vibrant yellow legs and unique three-toed feet distinguish them from all other flamingo species sharing their rugged mountain habitat.

High AltitudeSocialWading Bird
Andean Flamingo reference1 / 7
(c) Luciano Massa, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Luciano Massa · cc-by
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VulnerableConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXVulnerableRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyDiatoms, Microscopic algae, Brine shrimp
Predators
  • Andean Fox
  • Culpeo
  • Andean Condor
ThreatsLithium mining, water extraction, habitat disturbance, egg collection
HabitatsHigh-altitude salt lakes, alkaline lagoons, salt flats
Life span30–50 years
Classification
  1. FamilyPhoenicopteridae
  2. SpeciesPhoenicoparrus andinus
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Safe to observe at a distance; keep back to avoid disturbing high-altitude colonies.
What to notice
Recognized by pale pink plumage, yellow legs with three-toed feet, and a long yellow-and-black bill.
Support conservation
Maintain a distance of at least 200 meters from Andean breeding lagoons to avoid flushing roosting birds.
Responsible observation
  • Observation distance: Use a spotter scope to view high-altitude colonies without causing flock disturbance.
  • Tread lightly: Avoid walking across fragile crusts surrounding salt lakes during nesting season.
Related species
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