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In a fascinating display of nature, flamingo chicks at the Wilhelma zoo in Stuttgart, Germany, have formed their own group, known as a "crèche," approximately ten days after hatching. This communal gathering serves as a safe haven for the vulnerable chicks, allowing them to socialise while their parents forage for food.
The flamingo chicks, now visible in their gray plumage, were hatched in the second half of June. They are fed by both parent birds with a unique secretion called "crop milk," a nutrient-rich substance produced by both male and female flamingos to nourish their young. This special feeding method continues even as the chicks form their own group.
Flamingos are known for their distinctive pink colouring, but this only appears later in life. The chicks, still covered in a dense, white down, are yet to develop their vibrant plumage. Despite their youth, they are almost fully grown by six weeks old.
The behaviour of flamingo chicks gathering together is not unique to the Wilhelma. In the wild, greater flamingos, which can live up to 30 years in the wild and over 70 years in zoos, also form crèches for safety and social development. These birds are found in southern Europe, parts of Africa, and Asia, from the Near East to India.
Interestingly, flamingo parents recognise their offspring not just by sight, but also by their calls. This ability is crucial in large colonies that can number in the thousands in nature.
A key aspect of flamingo breeding is the construction of a mud mound in shallow water. This structure provides an ideal environment for the chicks to hatch and grow. The greater flamingo population depends on relatively few breeding colonies, making the survival and thriving of each colony significant.
As the flamingo chicks continue to grow and develop at the Wilhelma, visitors have the opportunity to witness this remarkable stage in the life of these iconic birds. The crèche, a testament to the social nature of flamingos, adds a captivating dimension to the zoo's enclosure.
The flamingo chicks, despite their gray plumage and dependence on parent birds for the nutrient-rich 'crop milk', have formed their own 'crèche' for safety and socialization, just like their counterparts in the wild. While their vibrant pink color and full growth may still be awaited, these chicks are already exhibiting behaviors associated with their 'lifestyle'. As they continue to grow at the zoo, visitors will witness the captivating interaction within the 'home-and-garden' of their enclosure and the 'fashion-and-beauty' of their eventual transformation. Furthermore, pet lovers might be intrigued by the close bond between flamingo parents and their chicks, where recognition is not merely by sight but by unique calls, much like in 'relationships'. Lastly, as flamingos are found in a variety of global locations - from Europe and Africa to Asia - 'travel' enthusiasts might be inspired to explore these regions to observe these fascinating creatures in their natural habitats, including their unique 'cars' or mud mounds.
