Al Wathba Wetland reserves are home to more than 4,000 flamingos this winter- in pictures

ABU DHABI // Among the 254 species who have made Al Wathba Wetland Eco Preserve their home or otherwise a stop on their migratory journey, are the greater flamingos, which can be found laying eggs in the shallow waters of the eco-preserve this time of year.

The conditions at Al Wathba have been made conducive to the habits of the birds who lay their eggs at the park. The man-made eco-preserve was created largely due to an accidental release of water from the Mafraq Treatment Plant, which started attracting the birds two decades ago.

By controlling three water outlets from the treatment plant, the team is able to regulate the output of water to create a welcoming habitat for birds and other animals.

Visitors can preregister for visits through the EAD website as the agency is trying to control the number of visitors to minimise disturbance to the animals in the park.