Bird Gallery Index

American White Pelicans image © Robert McFarlane.

Family:  (Pelecanidae) Pelicans

Preferred Habitat:  Coastal areas and large lakes.

Seasonal Occurrence:  Abundant fall through spring. Uncommon in the summer.

Notes:   The American White Pelican is a huge bird with a wingspan of over 9 feet. That is almost as wide as that of the California Condor. It is often seen in flocks, flying in V's or line formations. The black tips of its wings are prominent in flight. White Pelicans often fish together in flocks. Unlike Brown Pelicans, they do not dive from the air for fish, but fish while swimming in shallow water by dipping their bills in the water. During breeding season, adult bills become orange rather than the usual yellow and a crest of feathers develop on the top of the head. American White Pelicans do not breed in our area, but occasionally nonbreeding adults may be found here in the summer.
- Susan Billetdeaux