Diverse wildlife at Lake Nakuru
An explosion of unique animals
Because of their unique natural phenomena, the 3 interconnected lakes of Lake Bogoria, Lake Nakuru and Lake Elmenteita in the Great Valley have been added to the UNESCO World Heritage list. Home to 13 endangered bird species, the region features a great diversity and large concentration of birds. The geysers make it even more spectacular. Lake Elmenteita, the smallest of the 3 lakes, has beautiful birds and unique hot springs. Lake Bogoria is a saltwater lake and is even more spectacular because of the large numbers of flamingos that flock there. But Lake Nakuru is best known for its population of the elegant pink birds and has even been nicknamed The Pink Lake. Hundreds of thousands, or even millions of flamingos live among pink pelicans and rhinos. The area around the lake in Lake Nakuru National Park is home to all of the Big Five. But you will also find zebras, baboons, giraffes and gazelles here. Bird watchers will definitely also love this area with over 500 species of birds, including bee-eaters and crowned cranes.
The smaller ‘lesser’ flamingo
Fun flamingo facts
The lakes of the Great Rift Valley are home to 2 species of flamingo: the smaller ’lesser’ flamingo and the large ‘greater’ flamingo. The birds prefer shallow water; after it rains they will often move to the next lake. Another fun fact: often seen balancing on one leg, the flamingo is born white/grey and not pink. The bright pink colour is the result of its food intake as here they feed on algae that live in the lake. It uses its beak to filter the algae from the water.
