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American White Pelican
(Pelecanus erythrorhynchos) - North America
Photo by
Elsemargriet
Overview
Biology
Lifecycle: American White Pelicans are known for their social behavior and are often seen in large flocks. They build shallow nests made of sticks on islands or floating platforms in freshwater lakes.
Behavior: They are skilled swimmers and are known for their coordinated fishing behavior, where they forage in groups by herding fish into shallower water. They have a graceful flight and can travel long distances during migration.
Vocalizations: American White Pelicans are generally silent, although they can produce a variety of low grunts and growls during courtship and social interactions.
Food
Diet: American White Pelicans are piscivorous, primarily feeding on fish. They forage by swimming on the water's surface and dipping their bills to catch fish.
Feeding Behavior: They are known for their cooperative feeding behavior, where they work together to corral and catch fish. They often form a circle in the water to trap fish, then dip their bills to catch them.
The American White Pelican is a large waterbird found in North America. It is known for its distinctive appearance, large size, and its graceful flight.
Description
Size: American White Pelicans are among the largest of all North American birds, with a wingspan ranging from 2.44 to 2.95 meters (8 to 9.7 feet). They typically measure about 127 to 155 cm (50 to 61 inches) in length.
Appearance: They have white plumage with black wingtips and a distinctive long, flattened bill. During the breeding season, they develop a fibrous plate on their upper bill that is shed after the season. They have black legs and feet.
Habitat
American White Pelicans can be found in a variety of freshwater habitats, including lakes, marshes, rivers, and reservoirs. They are known for their preference for shallow, productive waters.
Nests: They often breed on islands in large, protected lakes and reservoirs. Their nests are typically located in colonies.
