The first flamingos have arrived at Larnaca Salt Lake following recent rainfall that ended months of drought, transforming the protected wetland into a pink spectacle.
The birds began appearing several days ago, but their numbers have grown significantly over the past 48 hours, according to wildlife photographer Louis Perentos, who captured images and video of the arrivals.
The late arrival follows a prolonged dry spell that delayed the annual migration. Recent rains provided enough water to make the salt lake suitable for the birds.
The flamingos’ arrival marks the official start of winter for Larnaca, typically bringing increased visitor numbers to the protected wetland.
The flamingos that visit Cyprus are the largest of six species found worldwide. They are nomadic birds that travel vast distances searching for suitable habitats—shallow brackish lakes or salt flats.
The birds will remain in Cyprus until spring before continuing their migration.
