When you hear of invasive species in Kansas, what comes to mind? Perhaps some of the many plants like Bradford pears or honeysuckle species that are not native, but have changed our soil quality? Maybe the silver carp and bighead carp that are making headlines for showing up in the lower Kansas River, or the non-native zebra mussels that seem to constantly be in the news? One animal that you probably didn’t think of is the flamingo, but that’s just what’s been spotted at Chase State Fishing Lake in Cottonwood Falls. This place is typically known for its abundance of channel catfish and for being home to one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Kansas, but now it’s popular for a brightly-colored visitor.

Chase State Fishing Lake is one of the most popular spots for anglers in Kansas. The lake is full of channel catfish, black bass, crappie, and more.
Paula Winchester/Google Reviews
The rocky shoreline makes for a unique landscape that's popular with all kinds of nature lovers, who find this a great spot for bird-watching and keeping an eye out for various forms of wildlife.
arthurrsmith/Flickr
One unusual bit of wildlife that's been spotted in October 2023 is a flamingo.
Nick Bui/Wikimedia Commons

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It's thought that the bird became lost during Hurricane Idalia, which hit Florida in late August. Severe weather events like hurricanes and tornadoes often blow birds and other animals off course.
Andrea Young/Flickr
It's not unusual for exotic birds to end up outside of their habitat after storms, and they typically will eventually return to their native lands.
In any event, he's certainly not where he belongs right now!
David Lewis/Flickr
American flamingos are typically found in Florida, the Bahamas, and parts of South America. They generally live in groups, so we hope that the one in Kansas makes his way home soon!
Officials urge visitors to the lake to not hassle or attempt to catch the flamingo, and they hope he will go home soon.
Brent/Flickr

Have you spotted this out-of-place flamingo in Kansas? What other critters have you seen that don’t belong here? Share your thoughts in the comments!

If you’re interested in fishing at the lake, check out Backcountry for all the gear you need.

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Chase State Fishing Lake, 1461 Lake Rd, Cottonwood Falls, KS 66845, USA