A story of bravery and resilience unfolds in Abu Dhabi’s wetlands, where ten injured flamingos were saved by dedicated human rescuers after a night of severe storms.
The trouble began when a fierce storm hit the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve, bringing heavy rain and hail the size of balls. With no people around, the flamingos were left to face the harsh weather alone.
In a video shared by the Environment Agency of Abu Dhabi, rescuers described how intense the hailstorm was, creating holes in the sand and leading to the deaths of some flamingos.
When the rescue team returned early in the morning, they were heartbroken to see dead and injured flamingos scattered across the sandy ground. Many birds had injuries to their heads, wings, and delicate legs.
However, amidst the tragedy, there was a surprising sight — the chicks had survived the storm. The baby flamingos were found alive under the bodies of the adult birds, who had shielded them throughout the stormy night, sacrificing their own safety for the young ones. Most of the injured flamingos were discovered near the nesting site, as the adult birds refused to leave their nests. Sadly, the hailstorm had destroyed many nests.
The agency’s team quickly called for assistance, and everyone worked hard to save the surviving flamingos. They partnered with Yas SeaWorld Research and Rescue Centre, where experienced veterinarians and staff helped give the flamingos a second chance.
Upon examination, veterinarians found that many birds had fractures and neurological damage. Before any major treatments could begin, they started by giving the birds fluids and antibiotics to stabilize them.
“I’ve been in the zoological field for 40 years, and I’ve never seen anything like this,” said one of the doctors at the centre.
After assessing the situation, the team discovered that most of the flamingos were unharmed. The chicks were also taken to the rescue center for care.
The medical team faced a unique challenge with the chicks — they had to become their caregivers. “We monitored the hatching and helped the chicks break out of their eggs. These little birds lost their parents, so now we are their parents. We have to provide everything they need,” explained one of the rescue staff.
Once the flamingos were treated, they were released back into the reserve, and shortly after, the chicks followed. Under the sunny skies of Abu Dhabi, the flamingos and their chicks reunited by the shores of Al Wathba Lake, returning to their home.
