The greater flamingoes are found in Europe, and in parts of Asia and Africa. They fly great distances during the winters to take refuge in wetlands and coastal areas like Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary. These are common migrants and winter visitors in the UAE, and are also breeding in some parts of the Emirates. Thousands of greater flamingoes have been recorded in the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, and it is not surprising that they have become the main attraction amidst the sky-scraping facades in the back drop.

Flamingoes live in shallow coastal lagoons, lakes and mudflats. They have specialized filter system which helps them adapt to saline waters. They feed on small invertebrates, crustaceans and algae which gives them their pink colour.