Bolivian Couple Lead the Way in Conserving, Caring for Rare Flamingos

Bolivian Couple Lead the Way in Conserving, Caring for Rare Flamingos

by Monica Olivera
Sep 14 2016, 8:57 am ET

Flamingos have been Omar Rocha's passion ever since he saw them for the first time in Laguna Colorada, Bolivia 25 years ago.

"I felt extremely emotional to see them up close, thousands of flamingos together feeding in the wetlands, forming part of the desolate landscape of the high-Andean region," Rocha said. "I marveled at the sight of them, attracted by their colors, behavior, and elegance. In that moment, I knew I wanted to study and focus my studies and research on these beautiful and charismatic birds."



Bolivia is unique in that it is one of only four countries that is home to the Chilean flamingo and two other species — the James flamingo and the Andean flamingo, which are the rarest species of flamingo in the world.

Today, the Bolivian is a leader in the conservation of these rare species and is doing all that he can to ensure their survival.

More:
http://www.nbcnews.com/news/latino/bolivian-couple-lead-way-conserving-caring-rare-flamingos-n644016

Environment & Energy:
http://www.democraticunderground.com/1127105049