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Pelicans
Copyright Barbara Samuelson 1996
This large bird (Pelecanus occidentalis) is often seen in
an attitude of repose, resting its head and huge bill on its breast. The
prominent throat pouch allows the bird to scoop up a large mouthful of
seawater and separate out the fish. The Brown Pelican performs spectacular
dives, plunging from the air straight down into the water in pursuit of
its prey. They are 45-54" large. The adults are stocky and dark brown
with massive bill and throat pouch and whitish head. Breeding birds have
cinnamon-brown on the back of their neck. Young birds have dull brown
heads. Adults are silent; nestlings squeal and grunt. Their habitat is
on the bays, beaches, estuaries and lagoons.
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