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American White Pelican
Pelecanus erythrorhynchos
45.169, -93.1079
Field Notes
Description:
This is a very large, white bird with a wingspan of about 2.5-3 meters (95–120 inches). The primaries and secondary feathers are black which are visible during flight. During breeding season, adults have a horn on their upper mandible. The yellow bill itself is very long and pouched as in other pelicans.
Habitat:
During breeding season they are found nesting in colonies, usually on islands, in freshwater lakes. They move to coastal waters (Pacific, Atlantic, and Gulf) in winter, although some winter on the lower Mississippi River as well.
Notes:
We have many white pelicans that use the Mississippi River during migration. During summer non-breeders and sub-adults are found here as well. Breeding birds tend to move further north.
Reference Links:
American White Pelican
Species ID Suggestions
Spotted for Missions
Photographed
PublishedJune 1, 2011
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