Early flamingo arrival raises concerns over deteriorating Mumbai, Navi Mumbai wetlands

Mumbai, Oct 20 (UNI) Flamingos may arrive in Mumbai and neghbouring Navi Mumbai city than usual this winter, potentially in larger numbers, but environmentalists have warned that deteriorating wetland conditions could threaten their feeding grounds. Polluted water, excessive algal growth and disrupted tidal flows are affecting key flamingo habitats, including DPS Flamingo Lake, NRI Wetland and TS Chanakya Wetland, NatConnect Foundation said. Senior scientist Mrugank Prabhu of Srushti Conservation Foundation said the birds could arrive early, possibly in greater numbers, as deficient monsoon rainfall in Kutch may have altered water levels and food availability, prompting flamingos to seek alternative feeding…