Joan and Dan's Birding Blog: Brown Pelican

Today's featured feathered friend is the Brown Pelican. Although a large bird by any measure, it is the smallest of the world's eight Pelican species. The American White and the Brown are the only Pelicans native to North America. The Brown Pelican is the state bird of Louisiana.

Once a threatened species, Brown Pelicans are now abundant on both U.S. coastlines with a large population in the Gulf of Mexico. They can also be found along the coastlines of Mexico, the Caribbean Islands, Central America and the northern parts of South America.

The Brown Pelican is a large water bird with a long bill (up to 13 inches) and large pouch typical of Pelicans. They are between 42 and 54 inches long, weigh from six to twelve pounds and have a wingspan of up to eight feet. Males and females are similar in appearance with brown bodies and white heads. The head, neck, bill, pouch and eye color can vary with season and breeding status. Juveniles are similar to adults, except with brown heads.

Unlike American White Pelicans who "corral" their food, Brown Pelicans dive head first into the water to feed. They are graceful fliers and often form long, single-file lines, gliding just inches over the surface of the water. Click on the links below for more information and enjoy these photos of the Brown Pelican.....tweet.....tweet!!