The Greater Flamingo
(Phoenicopterus roseus) is the most widespread
flamingo of the family Phoenicopteridae which is in the genus Phoenicopterus. It
is found in parts of Africa, southern Asia, the Middle East and southern Europe.
Sub-adult flamingos are whitish-grey and only attain the pink coloration several
years into their adult life. The coloration comes from the carotenoid pigments in the organisms that live in their feeding grounds.
Secretions of the urpoygial gland also
contain carotenoids. During the breeding season, Greater Flamingos increase the
frequency of their spreading of uropygial secretions over their feathers and
thereby enhance their colour.
Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greater_flamingo