American White Pelican

American White Pelican

One of the largest birds in North America, with a 9-foot wingspan. Like Brown Pelicans in shape but much larger, and quite different in habits: Occurs far inland, feeds cooperatively in shallow lakes, does not dive from the air for fish. Despite its great size, a spectacular flier with flocks often soaring extremely high in the air, ponderously wheeling, and circling in unison.

Feeding Behavior
Forages by swimming on surface, dipping bill into water and scooping up fish in pouch. During breeding season does much foraging at night, locating fish by touch during frequent dipping of bill; by day, probably locates prey visually. May forage cooperatively, lining up and driving fish toward shallower water.

Diet
Mostly fish. Primarily eats “rough” fish of little value to humans, also crayfish, salamanders.