Facts for Kids

The brown pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis) is a big bird with a long bill and large throat pouch! 🦩

These birds are found on the coasts of North and South America, especially in the sunny areas of Florida, California, and the Gulf Coast. They are unique because they plunge dive into the water to catch fish! 🐟

With their wings spanning up to 7 feet (2.1 meters), they can glide gracefully above the waves. Brown pelicans are often brown and white, with a more colorful head during mating season. They are social birds and like to be around other pelicans.

There are several other types of pelicans around the world! 🦩

The American white pelican (Pelecanus erythrorhynchos) is similar but larger and mostly white. The great white pelican (Pelecanus onocrotalus) can be found in Africa, Europe, and Asia, and has a very different habitat. The pink-backed pelican (Pelecanus rufescens) lives in parts of Africa, and its feathers are a lovely pink color! All these pelican species have unique characteristics, but like the brown pelican, they share the same love for fishing and living near water.

Brown pelicans are very happy living near coastal areas! 🌊

They prefer sandy beaches, rocky shorelines, and sometimes wetlands. You can find them from the Atlantic Ocean all the way to the Pacific Ocean, including the Caribbean Sea. In the United States, they are commonly seen in islands and estuaries along the Gulf of Mexico. These birds usually stay close to warm water, where fish are plentiful. They nest in colonies in trees or on the ground, often found on islands that are safe from predators.

Did you know that a group of pelicans is called a "pouch"? 😄

That's a funny name for such a big bird! Brown pelicans can hold up to 3 gallons of water in their throat pouches! Also, they are one of the few bird species that have managed to evolve their hunting technique of plunge-diving. When they dive, they can reach speeds of up to 40 miles per hour (64 km/h)! Pelicans can live up to 15 to 25 years in the wild.

The brown pelican was once endangered due to pollution and hunting, but they have made a great comeback! 🎉

They were removed from the endangered species list in 2009. Today, they are classified as "Least Concern" by the IUCN, meaning they are not facing immediate danger. However, they can still be affected by pollution, habitat loss, and climate change. People can help by keeping beaches clean and protecting coastal areas so these magnificent birds can thrive! 🌍

The brown pelican holds a special place in many cultures, especially in the southern United States. In Louisiana, they appear on the state flag and are considered a symbol of the state! 🎭

The bird is also featured in stories and folklore, reminding people of the beauty of nature and the importance of protecting wildlife. Many fishermen and tourists enjoy watching these stunning birds dive and fish, making the brown pelican a beloved part of coastal communities.

Brown pelicans are well-known for their striking appearance! They have a large, long bill that can be about 12-13 inches (30-33 cm) long. 😮

These bills help them scoop up fish easily. The feathers on their body are mostly brown, while their neck and head can be white or tan depending on the time of year. Their large throat pouch can hold lots of water and fish. When they dive, they can drop from heights of 60 feet (18 meters) without getting hurt! Their feet are webbed, making them great swimmers.

The favorite food of brown pelicans is fish! 🐠

They usually eat mullet, sardines, and menhaden. They are fantastic hunters, using their exceptional diving skills. When they see fish swimming under the water, they dive headfirst while spreading their wings to protect themselves from splashes. Their large throat pouch acts like a net, catching fish and draining the water before they swallow it. Sometimes, they will even steal fish from other birds, just like a sneaky trick! 🦅

Their keen eyesight helps them spot fish from high up in the sky.

Brown pelicans are great parents! 🍼

During mating season, which is in the spring, they form strong bonds with a partner. They build nests together, usually on islands or in trees. A female lays 2 to 3 eggs that are light blue or greenish in color. Both parents help take care of the eggs, which hatch after about 30 days. The baby pelicans are called chicks and are born covered in gray down feathers. They grow fast and learn to fly after about 10 weeks. Pelicans are usually fully grown by the time they reach one year of age.