The emblem of Camargue, which nevertheless counts around four hundred other species of birds, the greater flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus) has always aroused both cultural and spiritual interest. It has notably been associated with the phoenix, a mythical bird igniting and rising from its ashes. In the Egyptian culture, it was a representation of Ra, the Sun God. The flamingo is considered a sacred animal in Peru and is referred to in numerous literary works, including Alice in Wonderland. Millions of plastic flamingos are sold every year around the world, and the bird has become the sign of countless bars and restaurants. A symbol of redemption, cooperation, and flamboyance, it is often chosen as a totem animal and is widely used in tattoos.