Great White Pelican
NameGreat White Pelican
Common NameGreat White Pelican
Scientific NamePelecanus onocrotalus
FamilyPelecanidae
Wingspan (cm)280
Length (cm)155
Weight (g)12000
Plumage DetailsAdults are mostly white with a yellowish wash on the breast and a pale pinkish tinge on the back. The primary and secondary flight feathers are black, visible during flight. The bill is long, yellowish-grey with a pinkish-red tip, and features a prominent yellow gular pouch. The facial skin around the eye is orange.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent away from breeding colonies. In colonies, they produce a variety of deep grunts, hisses, and growls, especially during courtship and when disturbed.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatswetland, coastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in southeastern Europe, throughout Asia, and across Africa. They breed in temperate regions and migrate to warmer areas for winter, often found in large freshwater and brackish wetlands.
Identifying FeaturesVery large size, Predominantly white plumage, Long yellow bill with large gular pouch, Orange facial skin around the eye, Black flight feathers (visible in flight)
Description
The Great White Pelican is a very large water bird characterized by its predominantly white plumage and massive, yellow-pink bill with a large gular pouch. These highly social birds are often seen fishing cooperatively in freshwater and brackish wetlands.
