Status of the Greater Flamingo in Haiti

Abstract

Although flamingos in Haiti can still be found in most areas of theirhistorical range, survey results indicate that numbers have declineddrastically over the last 50 years. The coastal mangrove lagoonsbetween Grand Saline and Gonaives, the inland lakes of Etang Saumatreand Trou Caiman, and Ile de la Gonave have been, and remained, themajor areas used by flamingos. The species has been extripated fromareas with high human population densities (Ile a Vache, Les Cayes,and Cap-Haitien). No evidence of breeding activity was observed.The last nesting colony known to occur in Haiti was reported in 1928.Available data suggest that Haiti is mostly utilized by flamingosfor feeding and roosting during non-breeding, winter dispersal fromGreat Inagua, and perhaps Cuba. Flamingo numbers in Haiti are estimatedat about 900 (.+-. 600) birds. Population trends in Haiti are likelydeclining due to increasing human disturbance, habitat degradation,and exploitation for food and trade.