FLAMINGOS at Colchester Zoo have been given mirrors to literally help multiply numbers.

The group of pink birds now have several full length mirrors at the lakeside where they congregate, not to admire their reflections but encourage them to breed.

Flamingos are more likely to build nests and lay eggs if they are in groups 30 to 40 birds. Curator Sarah Forsyth said birds were already showing signs the mirrors may be working.