Status of the greater flamingo in Haiti

Although flamingos in Haiti can still be found in most areas of their historical range, survey results indicate that numbers have declined drastically over the last 50 years. The coastal mangrove lagoons between Grand Saline and Gonaïves, the inland lakes of Étang Saumâtre and Trou Caïman, and Ile de la Gonâve have been, and remained, the major areas used by flamingos. The species has been extripated from areas with high human population densities (Ile à Vache, Les Cayes, and Cap-Haïtien). No evidence of breeding activity was obtained. The last nesting colony known to occur in Haiti was reported in 1928. Available data suggest that Haiti is mostly utilized by flamingos for feeding and roosting during non-breeding, winter dispersal from Great Inagua, and perhaps Cuba. Flamingo numbers in Haiti are estimated at about 900 (±600) birds. Population trends in Haiti are likely declining due to increasing human disturbance, habitat degradation, and exploitation for food and trade.