A flamingo named Frankie caused astonishment among caretakers by journeying over 100 miles away to France after escaping from Paradise Park in Cornwall. The adventurous bird, whose wings were trimmed to limit her flight range, made her bold escape on November 2, initially being sighted near Porthtowan before briefly returning to Hayle. Subsequently, Frankie was spotted in Brittany, France, displaying minor injuries but appearing healthy.
Staff at the sanctuary expressed surprise and relief at Frankie’s unexpected European excursion, noting her resilience in adapting to a new environment. Despite acknowledging the natural flying abilities of flamingos, the park officials marveled at Frankie’s feat and expressed gratitude for her well-being in her newfound habitat. Although the chances of bringing Frankie back to the UK seem slim, the team hopes she integrates with a colony of greater flamingos in south-west France, ensuring her continued well-being in her current surroundings.