Flamingo named Frankie sighted flying alone after escaping
A flamingo named Frankie has gone missing from the Hayle Estuary in Cornwall. She was last seen at Paradise Park in Hayle at 8 a.m. before being sighted in the wild at 10:15 a.m., sparking a county-wide search as she remains missing. New video footage shows Frankie flying over Cornwall, flapping her wings and gliding over Hayle Estuary. The video captured by a member of the public shows Frankie in flight at 12:30 p.m. on Sunday. The wildlife sanctuary posted the video, noting that Frankie appears much pinker in flight than expected. The sanctuary urged anyone in the Newlyn, Longrock, and Hayle areas to watch out for Frankie as most sightings have come from these areas.
The park describes Frankie as a “naughty teenager” who makes a “very nasal honking sound.” They are asking anyone who hears or sees her to contact them. Despite having her feathers clipped, Frankie managed to escape, leaving park staff “beside themselves” with worry. The park’s director expressed concern for Frankie, noting that she seems unsure of what she’s looking for and likened her behavior to that of a rebellious teenager. The primary goal is to locate Frankie and bring her back to safety as soon as possible.
Frankie’s chances of surviving long-term in Cornwall are slim due to her special diet requirements. Flamingos feed on algae and small prey that may be available locally, but as the weather gets colder, finding suitable food could become challenging. Additionally, there are risks from predators like foxes. Flamingos are wading birds, making them vulnerable when not flying, further increasing Frankie’s risk in the wild.
The search for Frankie continues as the wildlife sanctuary and locals remain vigilant for any signs of her presence in the area. All sightings and information regarding Frankie’s whereabouts are crucial in efforts to bring her back to safety. The community’s support and cooperation are essential in reuniting Frankie with the sanctuary to ensure her well-being.