Brown Pelican
NameBrown Pelican
Common NameBrown Pelican
Scientific NamePelecanus occidentalis
FamilyPelecanidae
Wingspan (cm)200
Length (cm)120
Weight (g)4100
Plumage DetailsAdults in breeding plumage have a dark brown body, a white neck with a chestnut-brown stripe on the hindneck, and a pale yellow head. The gular pouch is reddish. Non-breeding adults have a white head and neck. Juveniles are duller brown overall.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent, especially away from nesting colonies. They may produce low grunts or croaks, particularly during breeding or when disturbed.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound along the Atlantic, Gulf, and Pacific coasts of the Americas, from Nova Scotia south to the Amazon River delta, and from British Columbia south to Chile.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size, Long bill with prominent gular pouch, Dark brown body, White neck and yellow head (breeding adults), Plunge-diving feeding behavior, Coastal habitat
Description
The Brown Pelican is a large seabird characterized by its long bill and expandable gular pouch, which it uses to catch fish. It is unique among pelicans for its dramatic plunge-diving feeding technique, diving headfirst into the water from above.
