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

Journalists tour the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve in Abu Dhabi. Christopher Pike / The National

Salim Javed Manager of terrestrial assessment and conservation for Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi speaks to journalists at the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve in Abu Dhabi. Christopher Pike / The National

Almost half of the greater flamingo population will leave on a migration path after February. Christopher Pike / The National

Salim Javed, center, Manager of terrestrial assessment and conservation for Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi watches an aerial drone fly. Drones are used to track and document birds in the reserve. Christopher Pike / The National

Bird tracks at the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve in Abu Dhabi. Christopher Pike / The National

Flamingos at theAl Wathba Wetland Reserve in Abu Dhabi. Christopher Pike / The National

There will be more than 4,000 flamingos at the reserve until February. Christopher Pike / The National

Journalists are given a tour of the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve. Christopher Pike / The National

An accidental spill of water created unique conditions for the artemia, which the flamingos feed on. Christopher Pike / The National

Journalists tour the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve in Abu Dhabi.. Christopher Pike / The National

A flamingo takes flight at theAl Wathba Wetland Reserve in Abu Dhabi. Christopher Pike / The National

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.