A flamingo that escaped from a wildlife sanctuary in Cornwall has been confirmed to be living wild on the north coast of France, after a daring journey across the English Channel. The bird, named Frankie, left Paradise Park in Hayle on Sunday, November 2, and was spotted flying over the Hayle Estuary before reaching Île Aganton, an island off the French mainland, by the following morning.
Curator David Woolcock said Frankie had her right wing clipped, which inhibits take-off but not flight once airborne. It is believed a gust of wind caught her, making her airborne and enabling her escape. Further sightings placed her at Plage de Keremma on November 9, looking fit and well.
Paradise Park decided against attempting to capture Frankie due to logistical challenges, including the need for health screening in a French institution and the risk of avian influenza. The park stated that Frankie will now live as a wild bird, noting that similar flamingos have thrived in the wild for many years, even through European winters.
Mr Woolcock said: 'It was never our intention for Frankie to end up in the wild. We are confident that her movements will be observed and logged in France by citizen scientists, and feel relieved to know she has shown the resilience and skills that will serve her well as a wild flamingo.' Frankie's parents and the rest of the flock at Paradise Park continue to do well.
