Drought Forces Flamingos to Abandon Spanish Wetlands

Drought Forces Flamingos to Abandon Spanish Wetlands

The renowned Fuente de Piedra wetlands in Spain's Malaga province, known for its flamingo population, has been affected by a prolonged drought, leading the birds to hatch their chicks elsewhere. The natural reserve, established in 1984, witnessed a significant decline in the number of adult birds present in the saltwater lagoon.

Spain has experienced a drought along with exceptionally high temperatures, making it the hottest spring since 1961. Rainfall has been 28% below expectations. Climate change is believed to be a contributing factor, impacting not only the flamingos' habitat but also tourism in the area.

How can communities and conservation efforts adapt to the effects of climate change and protect vulnerable ecosystems like wetlands, ensuring the survival of species such as flamingos?