Research into the social interaction of flamingo flocks has suggested that the oldest and pinkest flamingos are the most popular and therefore the key individuals in a flock.

PhD student Paul Rose from the University of Exeter is studying the birds at the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust in Slimbridge, Gloucestershire.

Four of the six remaining species of flamingo are threatened with extinction, and many of their wetland habitats are under threat from human encroachment - particularly from mining.

As Mr Rose explains here, the hope is that a clearer understanding of flamingo behaviour will help the birds to thrive in captivity and therefore safeguard their survival.

Video journalist: Victoria Gill