Current Status and Trends of American Flamingo (Phoenicopterus ruber) in Cuba: Implications for Conservation and Management

Cuba has one of the most important populations of American Flamingo (Phoenicopterus ruber) in the Caribbean region. However, current status and trends of the species have not been documented. The American Flamingo is a coastal habitat-specialist, increasing its vulnerability to habitat loss and climate change. It is also sensitive to disturbance and hydrological conditions. This study updates population trends of American Flamingo in Cuba, identifies and documents current and historical foraging and reproduction sites in the last 40 years, and provides an updated population size. We identified 48 foraging sites and nine breeding sites. The major foraging sites for American Flamingos were the faunal refuges Río Máximo, Tunas de Zaza, and Delta del Cauto. Currently, Delta del Cauto is the only documented nesting site. We estimate that the current number of American Flamingo in Cuba is about 64,000–87,000 individuals. We conclude that while Cuba still has a healthy flamingo population, the number of nests has declined drastically over the last 10 years, with 80% of reported sites having been abandoned. Our results provide information needed for improved management for this species in Cuba and the Caribbean and highlights the urgent need of nesting site conservation.