In Etosha National Park, flamingos and pelicans are among the most well-known birds that visitors can see. Flamingos are admired for their bright pink feathers, long legs, and graceful movements. They often gather in very large groups around the shallow pans in the park. This happens mostly after the rainy season when the Etosha Pan fills with water and creates a temporary lake.
Flamingos feed on algae and tiny crustaceans found in the water. They use their special curved beaks to filter food as they move their heads side to side. Their feeding style and group movements are interesting to watch. When many flamingos stand together in the shallow water, their pink color creates a beautiful contrast against the white surface of the salt pan.
Pelicans are also an important sight in Etosha. They are often seen flying slowly above the water or diving down to catch fish. With their very large beaks and broad wings, pelicans are easy to recognize and often attract attention as they glide across the open skies of the park. They are strong flyers and can travel long distances in search of food and water.
The best time to see flamingos in Etosha is during the wet season, between November and April, when the pan and surrounding areas hold water. During this time, thousands of flamingos arrive and turn the shallow lakes into feeding and nesting areas. Pelicans, on the other hand, prefer water sources that last longer. Fisher’s Pan is one of the best places to see them, as it usually has enough fish to support large groups of these birds.
Both flamingos and pelicans depend on Etosha’s wetland areas, which are sensitive to drought and changes in weather. To protect them, conservation work in the park focuses on safeguarding these habitats and keeping them safe for future generations of birds.
Flamingos are very social and are almost always seen moving together in groups. Pelicans are also social, and they sometimes work as a team to push fish into shallow waters before catching them. Watching these birds in their natural surroundings gives visitors a chance to enjoy their special behaviours and see how well they have adapted to life in Etosha.
