Seaview Wildlife Encounter is proud to be one of the most successful breeders of Caribbean and Chilean Flamingos in the United Kingdom. The focus is now shifting to the equally rare and endangered Lesser Flamingos, the only species yet to raise chicks at the Park. These birds are extremely difficult to raise in captivity and very few have ever been bred in the UK.
This week's project for the Animal Care Team has been to overhaul and enhance the Lessers' indoor nesting area at the Park in the hope that the Lessers may be enticed to consider breeding! Other species that previously shared the enclosure (Red-Breasted Geese and White Faced Whistling Ducks) have been re-sited so that interference (real or perceived) is minimised.
The old mud and clay floor in the indoor area has been power-hosed and removed. New soil was brought in to form the base of a re-vamped nesting area for the birds (who build their 'nests' out of mounds of damp mud). The area is being consistently warmed by a heat lamp and disturbance minimised by keeping the area as quiet as possible - away from public view and with limited keeper access.
The Lesser Flamingos will be closely monitored by the Team in the weeks ahead and any future happenings will be eagerly shared in our Blog!
Congratulations on rearing flamingos! You may find useufl information in the captive breeding chapter of "Flamingos" by Janet Kear and N.Duplaix-Hall. It analyzes all the important behavioral components that flamingos need to trigger egg-laying behavior. Did you know that regular spraying or misting with a hose is one of them?
ReplyDeleteHi Nicole, this is Jules! Thanks so much for taking the time to comment - it's great to know that you read our blog from time to time! I'll look out your book for more guidance. We use an overhead misting system on a daily basis. Hosing seems to be too intrusive? Will keep you posted ....! Till then, very best wishes.
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