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Flamingo Festival 2025
Context:
The highly anticipated Flamingo Festival 2025 is set to take place from January 18 to 20 in the scenic Tirupati district of Andhra Pradesh, India.
More on News:
- This vibrant festival, held after a gap of five years, celebrates the arrival of thousands of migratory birds, including the iconic Greater Flamingos, at the Pulicat Lake and Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary.
- Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister has emphasised hosting the festival as a State-level event, ensuring robust infrastructure development under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS).
Key Highlights:
- Migratory Birds: The star attraction of the festival is the impressive sight of flamingos and other migratory birds flocking to the region. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts can witness over 200 bird species during this season, including Grey Pelicans, Painted Storks, Glossy Ibis, and Common Kingfishers.
- Multiple Locations: The event will be spread across five key locations: Nelapattu, BV Palem, Atakanitippa, Sri City, and Sullurpeta. Each location offers unique experiences ranging from birdwatching spots to eco-friendly biodiversity sessions.
- Educational Activities: The festival provides an excellent opportunity for visitors, particularly students, to learn about the rich biodiversity. The Environmental Education Centre in Doravarisatram Mandal will host educational activities focusing on the importance of migratory birds and their role in the ecosystem.
- Cultural Programs: Alongside the birdwatching activities, the Government Junior College campus in Sullurpeta will host various cultural programs. These programs aim to celebrate the local culture and traditions, creating a festive atmosphere for all attendees.
- Tourist Attractions: Visitors can enjoy boating facilities at BV Palem and explore the beautiful wetlands of Pulicat Lake, which serve as a vital feeding ground for many bird species.
Ecological Significance:
- The Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary is Southeast Asia’s largest breeding ground for Grey Pelicans, with about 1,500 pelicans nesting there annually. The sanctuary, which spans 460 hectares, supports a rich variety of flora and fauna, making it a significant ecological hotspot.
- Many of these migratory birds travel from distant regions such as Ladakh, Tibet, China, and even Australia, showcasing the global importance of the sanctuary.