From: Nate Dias <offshorebirder@gmail.com>
Date: 2016-03-20 15:49
Subject: Question about Lake Bogoria flamingos and helicopter rides
I have a question for the flamingo experts out there:  are the helicopter rides that take photographers to buzz the flocks at Lake Bogoria bad for the well-being of the Lesser and Greater Flamingos?

I have heard stories about recent egregious behavior (buzzing very low and intentionally flushing/herding flocks) and seen some milder photograph-laden online trip reports that still cause me some concern.  I asked an oblique, veiled question of one of the trip report writers + photographers.  He replied that it's a minor/temporary disturbance, like spooking a buffalo or hippo on a game drive.

But knowing what I do about colonial waterbirds in the New World, and their propensity to abandon roosts and rookeries in response to disturbance, I have doubts and would like to learn more.

I would appreciate any feedback from flamingo conservationists or researchers on the subject - either off-list or shared with the group. 

I am also curious if there are any height regulations or other protocols that are possibly being ignored by irresponsible helicopter operators?

Good birding,

Nate