Pelecanus erythrorhynchos
Its wingspan is unsurpassed by any other Rocky Mountain bird, and the purposeful and confident flight of the American White Pelican is an unforgettable experience. These pelicans are often seen skimming low over lakes: their bellies nearly touch the waves as the birds use the subtle air currents rising from the water's surface to help them glide. Watching flocks of white pelicans might let you witness a rare activity among birds: group foraging. Small groups of pelicans typically work together to herd fish into shallow water, where they are easier to catch. The scientific name erythrorhynchos is Greek for 'red beak.' |
I.D.: Sexes similar: very large, stocky, white bird; long, orange bill and throat pouch; black primary and secondary wing feathers; short tail; naked orange skin patch around the eye. Breeding: small, keeled plate develops on the upper mandible; pale yellow crest on the back of the head. Non-breeding and Immature: white plumage is tinged with brown. Size: L 54-70 in. (137-178 cm); W 9 ft. (2.8 m). Range: very uncommon migrant throughout the Rockies; locally common breeder in the greater Yellowstone area. Habitat: Breeding: Yellowstone Lake, Jackson Lake and the Snake River. In migration: large, low-elevation lakes. Nesting: colonial; on bare, low-lying islands; nest scrape is either lined with pebbles and debris or is completely unlined; 2 eggs hatch at different times, after approximately 33 days; young are born naked and helpless. Feeding: surface dips for small fish and amphibians; small groups of pelicans often feed cooperatively by herding fish into large concentrations. Voice: generally quiet. Similar Species: Snow Goose: smaller; much smaller bill. Tundra Swan and Trumpeter Swan: wing tips are not black; longer, thinner necks. |
