We went to see some migratory flamingos at the wetland reserve in al wathba, which is on the outskirts of the Abu Dhabi city. Flamingo’s in the desert, that is a rare sight!
Now the interesting thing is that this wetland was not fully natural, but its developed accidentally. Due to the construction of the Al Ain truck road, a depression took place where the water started accumulating. In 1993 the first flamingos were noticed coming to this area. They came because the saline lakes were fertile with brine shrimp, a favourite food for these big birds.
In 1998, the late Sheikh Zayed declared the area a natural reserve, leading to a growth of the flamingo species, since the public was now a certain distance away from the wetlands.
There are more than 260 bird species here. Moreover, 320 invertebrates, 16 reptiles, 35 kinds of plants and 10 mammals are found here.
The most significant population among these birds is that of flamingos. It is estimated that over 5,000 flamingos have made this place their home.
Its a must visit for anyone interested in traveling and experiencing natural phenomenons. Its a very rare sight as well. A precautionary advice, please be aware of the loads of flys that will keep bugging you when you’re there so spray some repellent or wear a hat.
