Brown Pelican
NameBrown Pelican
Common NameBrown Pelican
Scientific NamePelecanus occidentalis
FamilyPelecanidae
Wingspan (cm)215.5
Length (cm)122
Weight (g)3850
Plumage DetailsAdults have a dark brown body, a white neck and head with a pale yellow wash on the crown. During breeding season, the nape and hindneck become dark reddish-brown. Juveniles are duller brown overall with a white belly.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent, but may produce low grunts or croaks, especially at nesting colonies.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal marine, estuaries, beaches, islands, piers
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound along the coasts of the Americas, from Nova Scotia and California south to the Amazon River in Brazil and Chile.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size with a long bill and throat pouch, Dark brown body plumage, Plunge-diving behavior for fishing, Distinctive flight pattern with slow, powerful wingbeats and long glides, White head and neck (adults, non-breeding) or yellowish crown (adults, breeding)
Description
A large coastal waterbird known for its distinctive long bill and expandable throat pouch. It is unique among pelicans for its plunge-diving fishing technique, often seen soaring gracefully over coastal waters before diving headfirst to catch fish.
