The sanctuary will be the State’s second marine sanctuary after the one at Malvan. The 1,690-hectare bird haven — 896 hectares of mangrove forests and 794 hectares of a waterbody — is on the western bank of the creek, between the Airoli and the Vashi bridges connecting Mumbai and Navi Mumbai. Its eco-sensitive zone will be the adjoining mangrove areas on either side of the creek, which are already notified as reserve forests. India is home to two types of flamingos from a total of 6 recognized around the world – Greater Flamingo and Lesser Flamingo. Both types can be seen at thane creek during the migratory season.