Absent for 200 Years, Flamingo-Like Birds Have Returned to Color the Florianpolis Sky

[Judi Lynn]

Guaras resurgence may have resulted from mangrove recovery on the island where they feed

Nov.22.2019 1:01PM

César Rosati
FLORIANÓPOLIS
The scarlet red that tints the sky with each flight catches the eye of the most unsuspecting observer, who soon associates them with flamingos.

With their lush plumage, the guarás (Eudocimus ruber) are back in Florianópolis.

The flock of birds had not been seen for over 200 years, according to researchers from UFSC (Federal University of Santa Catarina). The phenomenon mobilized fauna observers in the city. Among the possible reasons for the return of guarás, scholars say, is the recovery of mangroves on the island, where these birds can feed.



Guaras resurgence may have resulted from mangrove recovery on the island where they feed Crédito: Fernando Farias - Fernando Farias

The flock of about 1,000 animals arrived in the capital of Santa Catarina earlier this week and excited environmentalists from north to south of the island. Fernando Farias, a biologist and birdwatching guide, was among the first to register the birds, which possibly came from Babitonga Bay in the north of the state, 200 km from the capital.

More:
https://www1.folha.uol.com.br/internacional/en/scienceandhealth/2019/11/absent-for-200-years-flamingo-like-birds-have-returned-to-color-the-florianopolis-sky.shtml