Brown Pelican
Image: Yimo Yang (cc-by-nc)
NameBrown Pelican
Common NameBrown Pelican
Scientific NamePelecanus occidentalis
FamilyPelecanidae
Wingspan (cm)203
Length (cm)114
Weight (g)3600
Plumage DetailsAdults have a dark brown body, white neck, and a yellowish wash on the crown. The hindneck can be reddish-brown during breeding season. Juveniles are duller brown overall.
Vocalization / CallBrown Pelicans are generally silent, but may produce low grunts or croaks, particularly at nesting colonies or when disturbed.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal areas, estuaries, harbors, lagoons
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound along the coasts of North and South America, ranging from Nova Scotia south to the Amazon River delta on the Atlantic, and from British Columbia to Chile on the Pacific.
Identifying Featureslarge size, long bill with large throat pouch, dark brown body with white head/neck (adults), plunge-diving fishing behavior, coastal habitat
Description
These large coastal birds are characterized by their dark brown bodies, white heads, and long bills with a prominent throat pouch. They are famous for their spectacular plunge-diving technique to catch fish.
